Sangamon Sun

Village of La Grange Board of Trustees met Aug. 23.

Here are the minutes provided by the board:

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 7:36 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, McGee, and Peterson with President Kuchler presiding.

ABSENT: None

OTHERS:

Village Manager Andrianna Peterson Village Attorney Mark Burkland Acting Assistant Public Works Director Russell Davenport Community Development Director Charity Jones Finance Director Lou Cipparrone Interim Police Chief Jason Cates 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. He reminded everyone to stay six feet apart and wear a mask 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.

President Kuchler invited Eric White to lead the audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. He noted that Mr. White was part of a group of LTHS students that is organizing the “Run for Hope” 5K in Western Springs on August 28.

2. PRESIDENT'S REPORT

President Kuchler welcomed Cook County Commissioner Frank Aguilar and noted that Commissioner Aguilar serves the 16th District which includes La Grange. President Kuchler thanked Commissioner Aguilar for his service, as well as his assistance and partnership in addressing storm water and flooding issues in La Grange.

Commissioner Aguilar thanked President Kuchler and noted that he believes visiting his constituent communities is important. He explained that as part of the American Rescue Plan Recovery Package (ARPA), funding has been allocated to La Grange as a result of COVID-19. He also encouraged continued COVID-19 testing and advised those individuals who had not yet been vaccinated to make an appointment to do so.

Commissioner Aguilar congratulated the Police Sergeants that were being sworn-in and thanked the Police Department for their service to the community. He also noted that he had recently met with Congresswoman Newman and discussed flooding in La Grange.

President Kuchler thanked Commissioner Aguilar for attending the m Kuchler noted that the ARPA money is greatly appreciated, and that additional money is needed for infrastructure programs that would provide flood relief. As flooding is a regional problem, it needs to be addressed by the County, State and Federal governments in concert with local municipalities.

A. Appointment and Oath of Office - John Timothy O'Brien, Village Trustee

President Kuchler announced that with the resignation of Trustee Mike Matteucci, the Village solicited nominations for the open position of Village Trustee from the general public. After speaking with various candidates, he was pleased to submit the appointment of Tim O'Brien. He has been an active and invaluable member of the La Grange community. His enthusiasm and dedication to serving the public will be beneficial to the residents of La Grange. President Kuchler recommended that the appointment be approved.

Trustee Augustine made a motion to approve the appointment of Tim O'Brien to the position of Village Trustee, seconded by Trustee McGee. Motion carried on a voice vote.

President Kuchler invited Clerk Saladino to administer the Oath of Office to newly appointed Trustee Tim O'Brien. After the Oath of Office was administered, Trustee O'Brien took his seat at the dais.

President Kuchler noted that Cara Doyle was nominated as Coach of the Year by the Little League of America. As one of two people in the whole country, he noted it was a high honor and the Village is proud of her accomplishment.

B. Resolution - Recognizing the 75th Anniversary of the La Grange Pet Parade

President Kuchler expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Pet Parade Committee. He recognized and thanked Bob and Susan Breen; Lindsey and Dave Paulos; Molly Price; Steve Palmer; Ben Boyd; Steve Storey; and Lynn Lacey. President Kuchler read the Resolution into the record.

A motion was made by Trustee Gale to approve the Resolution recognizing the 75th anniversary of the La Grange Pet Parade as presented, seconded by Trustee Peterson. Motion carried on a voice vote.

C. Appointment and Oath of Office - Sabrina Irizarry, Police Sergeant

President Kuchler provided background information regarding the accomplishments of Sabrina Irizarry and invited Clerk Saladino to administer the Oath of Office.

D. Appointment and Oath of Office - Ryan Nemecek, Police Sergeant

President Kuchler provided background information regarding the accomplishments of Ryan Nemecek and invited Clerk Saladino to administer the Oath of Office.

E. Appointment and Oath of Office - Patrick Fulla, Police Sergeant

President Kuchler provided background information regarding the accomplishments of Patrick Fulla and invited Clerk Saladino to administer the Oath of Office.

F. Employee Recognition - Police Department Unit Citation

President Kuchler noted that the Police Department works very hard to protect the community and expressed appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of the Police Department employees. He thanked them for saving a life and invited the Police Chief to administer the Unit Citation to members of the Police Department.

G. Proclamation - CommUNITY Diversity Group 30th Annual Race Unity Rally

President Kuchler announced that the CommUNITY Diversity Group will host their 30th Annual Race Unity Rally on Sunday, September 12, 2021.

President Kuchler read the Proclamation recognizing the CommUNITY Diversity Group's 30th annual Race Unity Rally into the record. He thanked those involved in the planning and supporting of this important annual event and recognized Marian Honel Wilson, Ken and Linda Eastman, Harold Gibson, and Becky Lorentzen.

Marian Honel-Wilson and Becky Lorentzen expressed their thanks and invited the community to attend the CommUNITY Diversity Group's events. The events include a discussion of the book “Caste” on August 31; pizza and screening of the movie “13th” on September 10; diversity story time at the La Grange Public Library on September 11; and the annual Race Unity Rally on Sunday, September 12 at 3 p.m. in the Village Hall Auditorium. For more information or to register for the events, please visit their website.

Trustee Augustine made a motion to approve the Proclamation declaring Sunday, September 12 as Race Unity Day in La Grange, seconded by Trustee McGee. Motion carried on a voice vote.

President Kuchler noted that this year's theme is “Racial Healing Through Understanding Our History”. 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. 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 noted that La Grange is a community of families, neighbors and friends that care for each other, regardless of our differences, and the Community Diversity Group contributes greatly to that community.

President Kuchler announced that on July 27, the Illinois Department of Public Health announced that it adopted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations to protect against COVID-19 and the Delta variant. The CDC recommends that everyone, including fully vaccinated individuals, wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas with substantial and high transmission. In general, the CDC does not recommend that people wear masks outdoors, unless they are not fully vaccinated and unable to maintain a six-foot physical distance. To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, the CDC recommends that you 1) get vaccinated; 2) avoid crowds and poorly ventilated areas; 3) maintain social distancing; and 4) monitor your daily health and avoid leaving your home if you experience COVID-19 symptoms. The IDPH has launched a new immunization portal called “Vax Verify”, that allows Illinois residents 18 years and older to check their COVID-19 vaccination record. For more information regarding COVID 19, please visit the Village website or www.dph.illinois.gov or www.covid.cdc.gov.

President Kuchler announced that as part of the Village's "Be the Change, Travel Safe in La Grange” traffic safety campaign, he 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. Traffic and pedestrian safety is a priority for the Village and he reminded everyone 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, please visit the Village's website.

President Kuchler announced that on September 11, Patriot Day gives all of us time to reflect on the devastating terror attacks that took nearly 3,000 lives. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. The bravery of American citizens and first responders will be remembered on this National Day of Service and Remembrance. The Robert E. Coulter American Legion is planning a commemoration event on September 11 at 10 a.m. at the Countryside Village Hall. Everyone was encouraged to take a moment to remember and honor the fallen.

President Kuchler announced that on June 26, the Village experienced a significant storm event that resulted in widespread flooding throughout the Village. At the Village Board meetings on June 28 and July 12, the Village heard comments from residents that incurred damages and losses. Photos and videos were also provided by residents, documenting the impacts of the storm event. The Village has identified projects to help reduce flooding, each of which has its own set of challenges, costs and benefits. A summary of the Village's storm sewer system and relief sewer projects were provided by the Village Engineer at the June 28 meeting and are located on the Village website.

t La Grange cannot undertake significant stormwater management projects alone as we need regional partners and outlets for the water. Therefore, we are continuing to work closely with our elected leaders and partner agencies like the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD), Illinois Department of

Transportation (IDOT) and Cook County, to implement regional solutions that further identified and proposed projects. Over the last several weeks, the Village has continued its efforts to identify funding for flood mitigation projects through legislative, legal and engineering initiatives. In addition to the 50th Street Relief Sewer Project, the Village met with a number of elected leaders to discuss other flood control initiatives such as the Maple Avenue Relief Sewer, connections to the Deep Tunnel, and the inclusion of flood mitigation measures as a part of upcoming IDOT roadway projects. Specifically, he stated that he met with top MWRD officials and MWRD Commissioner Mariyana Spyropoulos, as well as Illinois State Representative and House Republican Leader Jim Durkin and Senator John Curran. He also met with Congresswoman Marie Newman and a representative of the La Grange Country Club.

The Village also submitted funding requests for stormwater management projects to Cook County and other legislators. He stated that he has met with residents including Dry Up La Grange to discuss additional, more localized flood mitigation projects. These potential ideas have been passed along to the Village's engineers and require further study. The Village has met with School District 105 and will be meeting with 204 to discuss potential flood mitigation partnership opportunities over the next several weeks.

President Kuchler noted that as previously reported, the 50th Street Relief Sewer Project was stopped and delayed due to litigation filed by Lehigh Hanson Quarry in McCook. The Village continues to be actively engaged in the ongoing court proceedings, including settlement discussions with the quarry. A status report regarding the litigation was provided at the June 28 Village Board meeting and a copy of a recent court decision is located on the Village's website.

President Kuchler reported that the Village is planning a public workshop to discuss stormwater management on September 13, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. The MWRD is also planning to attend and contribute to the discussion. For more information regarding flood resources for residents and stormwater management Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the Village website.

President Kuchler thanked Commissioner Aguilar for his collaboration and noted the possibility of a settlement being reached with the quarry. While hopeful, the attorneys are continuing to pursue litigation on parallel tracks.

President Kuchler also noted that the Village made an offer to an individual for the Director of Public Works position. He thanked Acting Assistant Public Works Director Russell Davenport for stepping up and doing a great job during this search.

3. MANAGER'S REPORT

Village Manager Peterson thanked President Kuchler and noted that as discussed earlier, the Village has a commitment to inclusion and service to every member of our community. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the Village works to attract and retain a diverse work force through community connections and outreach efforts. She asked Police Chief Jason Cates to provide more information regarding how the Police Department continues to focus on furthering these efforts.

Chief Cates explained that on March 22, 2018, the NAACP Illinois State Conference and the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police agreed to 10 Shared Principles designed to build trust between law enforcement and communities of color. On August 23, 2018, the La Grange Police Department adopted these same 10 Shared Principles and thereby added the La Grange Police Department to the historic agreement between the Illinois NAACP and the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police.

La Grange has distinguished itself as every member of the department, both civilian and sworn, has affirmed their commitment to the 10 Shared Principles. To date, every member of the department that has had the opportunity to sign the document has done so.

La Grange Police Department has affirmed these principles and in doing they have each asserted their commitment to the community. They vowed by mutual affirmation to work together and stand together to promote, and more importantly, demonstrate devotion to these principles.

Chief Cates provided examples of the Police Departments devotion to the 10 Shared Principles. He noted that in June of this year, in an effort to demonstrate commitment to the 9th principle, the Police Department implemented significant changes to the recruiting process to reach a larger, more diverse pool of police applicants. Additionally, the 10th Principle affirms commitment to de-escalation training and Police Officers continue to receive training on crisis intervention, crisis communications and de escalation. In response to more than 23,000 calls for service and 128 criminal arrests, our Officers utilized physical force in response to resistance on only 7 occasions. The highest level of force used was a weaponless, empty-hands control tactic, most often a leverage technique.

The extremely low frequency in which physical force is relied upon by our officers speaks to their ability to consistently de-escalate potentially violent confrontations, which brings credit upon themselves, the La Grange Police Department and the Village of La Grange.

Chief Cates noted that the recent events of civil unrest have shown that there is a serious need to have difficult discussions about policing within our communities. Police Department operations must be transparent and be conducted with a goal of mutual respect for everyone involved. The men and women of the La Grange Police Department are committed to achieving that goal.

President Kuchler thanked Chief Cates and the La Grange Police Department for their hard work and dedication.

Manager Peterson noted that the Village Hall will be closed on Monday, September 6 in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, September 7. As always, a full complement of public safety personnel will be available in the event of an emergency,

Manager Peterson announced that in observance of the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 6, residential refuse collection service will 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 7. Residents south of 47th Street with normal pick up on Thursday, will receive refuse collection services on Friday, September 10. Also due to the Labor Day holiday, the next free monthly brush pickup for La Grange residents will begin on Tuesday, September 7. For more detailed information, please visit the Village website or call the Public Works Department at (708) 579-2328.

4, PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS

Heather Zeman, 5005 S. Willow Springs Road, stated that a fence variation for her property is included on the agenda this evening. She provided examples of why she believes that the fence variation should be approved.

5. CONSENT AGENDA AND VOTE

A. Ordinance – Design Review Permit #113 – 100 West Calendar Ave, Oak Properties Limited Partnership

B. Award of Contract and Materials Purchase – Central Business District Streetscape Improvements

C. Award of Contract – 2021 Sewer Repair & Lining Program

D. Award of Contract – 2021 Sewer Televising Program

E. Street Condition Survey Update – (1) Engineering Task Order; (2) Local Public Agency Engineering Services Agreement; (3) Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code

F. Agreement – 2021 Holiday Season and 2022 Winter/Spring Public Relations and Marketing Services

G. Agreement - Shawmut Avenue - Engineering Task Order

H. Agreement – Stone Avenue Train Station - (1) Local Public Agency Engineering Services Agreement Supplement; (2) Local Public Agency Amendment #1 for Federal Participation; and (3) Engineering Task Orders

I. Resolution - Request to Close La Grange Road – Pet Parade

J. Minutes of the Village of La Grange Board of Trustees Regular Meeting, Monday, July 12, 2021

K. Consolidated Voucher 210726

L. Consolidated Voucher 210809

M. Consolidated Voucher 210823

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.

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

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Kotynek, McGee, O'Brien and Peterson

Nays: None

Absent: None

6. CURRENT BUSINESS

A. Special Event – West End Art Festival – Request for Approval

President Kuchler asked Trustee Augustine to introduce the item. Trustee Augustine thanked the La Grange Business Association and noted that they were seeking to conduct the 25th annual “West End Arts Festival”. The event hours will be Saturday, September 11th from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday September 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

As in past years, the event will celebrate performance and culinary arts in addition to the annual juried fine art show. The Culinary Arts Tent will offer cooking demonstrations from local chefs. The La Grange Art League, La Grange Historical Society, and local businesses will host interactive art activities and crafts for children. To further enhance the event atmosphere, jazz musicians will play on the steps of the Stone Avenue Station throughout the event.

The 2021 Summer Art Series “Come, Sit, Stay, & Play in La Grange” will conclude with a live and silent auction of hand-painted dog houses and lounge chairs on Saturday. Funds raised from the sale of the game tables will benefit area charitable organizations.

A motion was made by Trustee Augustine to approve the special event for the 2021 West End Art Festival, seconded by Trustee Kotynek.

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Kotynek, McGee, O'Brien and Peterson

Nays: None

Absent: None

B. Ordinance – Variation - Prohibited Fence Locations / Heather and James Zeman, 5005 South Willow Springs Road

President Kuchler asked Trustee Gale to introduce the item. Trustee Gale stated the petitioners, Heather and James Zeman, are the owners of the property at 5005 South Willow Springs Road and have applied for a variation to construct a six-foot tall wood privacy fence between the front building line of the house and the front lot line. The Zoning Code allows for variations for fence height and/or placement.

On June 29, 2021, the Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on the application. At the hearing, the petitioners testified that the requested variation will allow them to secure their property and protect the human and animal life on the property. The petitioners testified that the property's proximity to the hospital, high school Corral, and busy street (Willow Springs Road) create the need for the fence in front of the house. The petitioners also testified that the lot was situated on a unique block.

At the public hearing, no members of the public spoke about the application.

The Zoning Board of Appeals found that the property's proximity to two through-lots was unique in the Village. The Zoning Board of Appeals also found, however, that the alternative fence layout, which is permitted by the Zoning Code, in combination with landscaping or vegetation would achieve the petitioners' goal of securing the property. After the hearing was closed and the Zoning Board of Appeals deliberated, the Zoning Board of Appeals voted 4-2 to recommend denial of the requested variation for the fence.

Trustee Gale noted that he attended the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting and was in favor of granting the variation as he found the lot circumstances to be unique.

Trustee Kotynek noted that he had never voted against a ZBA recommendation as he values their expertise. However, he noted the application was unique and would make an exception for this case.

Trustee Peterson asked for additional clarification on the definition of the front of the property as well as if alternatives were identified by the Zoning Board of Appeals. Community Development Director Jones noted that the front of a property is the shortest lot line abutting a street. Ms. Jones also explained that the Zoning Board provided an alternative that would have allowed the fence to be placed in line with the front of the home along with landscaping.

Trustee Augustine noted that while she valued the knowledge and ruling from the Zoning Board, she believed the application to be unique and deserving of a variation in consideration of all factors.

A motion was made by Trustee Gale to approve the ordinance for a variation to allow a fence at 5005 South Willow Springs Road, for petitioners Heather and James Zeman, seconded by Trustee Kotynek.

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Kotynek, McGee and O'Brien

Nays: Trustee Peterson

Absent: None

C. Temporary Use Approval Extension Request - 27 Calendar Avenue, Pillars Community Health

President Kuchler asked that Trustee Gale introduce the item. Trustee Gale stated that on January 25, 2021 the Village Board granted a temporary use approval for Pillars Community Health (“Pillars") to operate a medical clinic in the first floor of 27 Calendar Avenue, in order to administer COVID-19 vaccines. The approved temporary use allowed Pillars to operate the vaccine clinic for an initial period of 90 days, with up to four extensions of 30 days each, as approved by the Village Manager. The last of the allowable extensions expires at the end of August.

Zoning Code Section 9-103C includes, among a list of types of temporary uses, an “other temporary uses” category, which allows for other temporary uses that are consistent with the purposes and intent of Section 9-103 and of the zoning district in which the use is located. Per the Zoning Code, any “other” temporary use requires approval by the Village Board of Trustees.

The Pillars building at 27 Calendar Avenue is located in the core of the C1 Central Commercial zoning district. Medical offices and clinics are prohibited on the first floor. The purpose of the C1 District is to provide for the development and maintenance of a concentrated, pedestrian-oriented commercial shopping center, with special provisions protecting, in the core of that district, the retail environment at street level.” In January, the Village Board concurred with Pillars' assertion that due to the extraordinary nature of a worldwide pandemic, the proposed temporary use will assist in hastening a return to normal conditions, therefore supporting the purpose of the C-1 District.

In their recent request, Pillars noted that the additional space for a dedicated temporary vaccine clinic is still needed because their permanent locations are not large enough to accommodate the volume of persons seeking vaccination given the protocols for vaccinations, reduced occupancies due to social distancing requirements, and increasing demand for COVID testing at the Pillars facility at 108-110 Calendar Avenue. Additionally, Pillars notes that a dedicated vaccine clinic reduces spoilage and the need for vaccines is projected to increase in the coming months.

Pillars requests that the Village Board renew the temporary use approval for the vaccine clinic through November 23, with up to 3 additional 30 day extensions that may be granted by the Village Manager. The approved temporary use would allow Pillars to continue to operate the vaccine clinic in accordance with the approved floor plan, up to eight hours per day, Monday through Saturday, during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. subject to certain conditions.

A motion was made by Trustee Gale to approve the temporary use approval extension request from Pillars Community Health at 27 Calendar Avenue, seconded by Trustee Kotynek

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Kotynek, McGee, O'Brien and Peterson

Nays: None

Absent: None

7. PUBLIC COMMENT

Ali Bowe asked that the Village consider underground retention projects as a short term stormwater solution while longer term projects are still being furthered.

Steve Koppell stated that he believed that the 50th Street project and flood wall provide greatest relief, other short term projects are necessary to protect public health,

Glenn Thompson suggested that the Village Board look at increasing sewer rates to fund flood mitigation projects.

Steve Palmer, advised that Endless Summerfest was a great success. He thanked the volunteers and expressed appreciation for the partnership between the La Grange Business Association, Park District and Village. He also thanked the Village team for working to make the event a success.

President Kuchler thanked Mr. Palmer for his kind words and expressed pride in the actions of Village staff. He noted that one of the jobs of the Village Board is to create a sense of place, which Endless Summerfest provides. He thanked the LGBA and the Park District for their efforts.

Lynn McInerney and Barb Kirchlow, 96 S. 6th Avenue, spoke regarding business delivery trucks that are creating parking concerns in the alley behind the Carriage Place Condominiums. President Kuchler thanked them for bringing the situation to the Village's attention and asked staff to work on the issue in collaboration with the residents of Carriage Place and the local businesses.

8. TRUSTEE COMMENTS

Trustee Peterson noted that she volunteered at Endless Sumerfest and she expressed admiration for the professionalism of the La Grange Police Department. She thanked them for their service.

Trustee Kotynek thanked Steve Palmer for being community minded and expressed his appreciation for the time and effort he contributed to the Endless Summerfest.

Trustee Augustine thanked Chief Cates for his informative presentation on the 10 Shared Principals held by the Police Department.

Trustee Tim O'Brien thanked President Kuchler and the Village Board for the honor of being appointed to the position of Trustee.

CLOSED SESSION

None.

ADJOURNMENT At 9:43 p.m. Trustee Kotynek made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Trustee Gale. Approved by a voice vote.

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