Sangamon Sun

Village of La Grange Board of Trustees met May 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 7:32 p.m. by Village Clerk Paul Saladino. On roll call, as read by Clerk Saladino, the following were:

PRESENT:

Trustees Augustine (remote attendance), Gale, Kotynek, McGee, O'Brien and Peterson, with President Kuchler presiding.

ABSENT:

None

OTHERS:

Village Manager Andrianna Peterson

Village Attorney Benjamin Schuster

Village Attorney Mark Burkland

Public Works Director Richard Colby

Community Development Director Charity Jones

Finance Director Lou Cipparrone

Police Chief Robert Wardlaw

Fire Chief Terrence Vavra

President Kuchler welcomed the Village Board and thanked Trustees for attending the meeting. The video of the meeting is available on YouTube, and will also be available on Facebook and posted to the Village website.

President Kuchler asked Justice McGee, 5th grader at Cossitt School, to lead the audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

2. PRESIDENT'S REPORT

President Kuchler took a moment to recognize the life and legacy of Ruth Palmer who passed away last week. Mike and Ruth Palmer purchased The Spot to Eat Restaurant in 1976, which later became Palmer Place Restaurant and Biergarten. Ruth and the entire Palmer Family have served La Grange in numerous capacities. He stated that our thoughts are with the Palmer Family.

President Kuchler announced that the La Grange Business Association (LGBA) Summer Art Project kicks off a “Summer of sustainability” and features an eco-friendly art exhibit: “Earth Day Every Day”. Sponsored by local businesses and designed and painted by local artists, colorful rain barrels will be found in front of shops and restaurants as a fun reminder to live more sustainably. He asked the public to watch for more details on this unique initiative and how they can add one of these whimsical and functional art pieces to their own yard. For more information, please visit the LGBA website at www.lgba.com. He invited everyone to visit and enjoy all that La Grange has to offer this summer.

President Kuchler noted that the entire family will enjoy the thrills and excitement of the La Grange Carnival beginning June 3-5. The event will feature rides and attractions, as well as a social district with beer and wine from adjacent restaurants. The Carnival is located on Harris Avenue between La Grange Road and Ashland Avenue. The Pet Parade will be held on June 4 and will step off at 9:30 a.m. He thanked all of the volunteers and effort that goes into planning and executing these events by members of the community, organizations and staff. For more information, please visit the LGBA website or the Pet Parade website.

President Kuchler noted new parking signage for the Cossitt School teacher lot.

President Kuchler noted that the Community Diversity Group will host a Juneteenth event at the La Grange Community Center (200 Washington) on Monday, June 20 at 4:30 p.m. The featured speaker is Rev. Wheeler Parker, Jr. civil rights activist and special honoree will be Mrs. Renee Hodges, long time business owner. Everyone is welcome to attend. He thanked the Community Diversity Group, La Grange Park District and Sisters of St. Joseph.

President Kuchler stated that the Village is inside of 60 days before the trial with the Quarry in July, President Kuchler stated that the attorneys for the Village are working hard and it will be up to the judge.

President Kuchler announced a current opening on the Design Review Commission (DRC) if anyone is interested.

A. 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 will 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 the BOFPC is responsible for the initial appointment of all full-time firefighter/paramedics and police officers, as well as promotions.

Members are: Elyse Hoffenberg, 8 years and current Chairperson; Brian Boersma, 4 years of service; and Tom Levato, 3 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 remain engaged in the implementation of the new brand through a variety of initiatives such as the gateway and wayfinding signs and public art at 2 N. La Grange Rd. They also helped promote Village marketing and promotional initiatives during COVID.

Members are: Russ Riberto, 8 years of service and current chair of the commission; Steve Nizzere appointed 2/14/2022; Christopher Heery appointed 12/13/2021; Katy McQuiston appointed 9/13/2021; John Janowski appointed 6/14/2021; Justin Hanson 2 years of service; Beverly Hayes and Maurice McGee, both with 3 years of service; Michael Buttron 4 years of service; Tom Cassidy 6 years of service; Camille Hall, James Janevski, and Lisa Sher all with 7 years of service; Margaret Carlson, 14 years of service; and Steve Palmer, 22 years of service.

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

In the past two years the DRC reviewed and recommended approval of significant façade renovations to accommodate Milk Money Brewing at 75 S. La Grange Road, Fannie May located at 2 S. La Grange Road, and Family Vision at 100 W. Calendar Avenue, as well as smaller renovations at 26 S. La Grange Road, and the La Grange Theater at 80 S. La Grange Road, and changes to the roof top of the Elm Restaurant at 21 Harris Ave. Since

RC also facilitated approval of a new comprehensive sign plan for 71-75 S. La Grange Road and an update to the comprehensive sign plan at 26 S. La Grange Road.

Members are: Tim Reardon, 15 years of service and current Chairperson; Ray Baker, 1 year of service; Kevin Cahill, 3 years of service; Christine Banks, 4 years of service; and Kurt Wisthuff, 6 years of service.

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

This past year the EQC 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 evaluated and recommended a sewer backup prevention program, held a holiday light recycling event, Native Garden Tour, worked with La Grange Park on a pumpkin recycling event, and held an Earth Day Celebration.

Members are: Rose Naseef, 8 years and current Chairperson; Rob Byerly, David Herndon, Bill Holder, Glenn Thompson, Kurt Volkman, and Madonna Walsh, all appointed on 9/13/2021; Aakruti Liva, Molly Mahoney, and Jana Svec, all with one year of service; Laurie Braun, David May, Brandon Simak, Stan Zarnowiecki, all with 3 years of service; and Linda Christianson, 13 years of service,

Plan Commission (3-year term, 7 members)

It was noted that since 2020, 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; commercial uses; and nonconforming structures.

The Plan Commission also reviewed applications for two re-subdivisions (resulting in four new single family lots), two rezoning requests from the Park District for their recently acquired property at 610 East Avenue and a property at 511 E. Cossitt Ave, a text amendment and special use from the Park District for above ground gasoline storage tanks, a special use and text amendment to allow for a co-working use with retail sales area on the first floor in the C-1CR District (Brick & Mortar) at 30 S. La Grange Rd., and a special use for outdoor dining at 56 S. La Grange Rd. (Palmers Place).

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

Members are: Greg Paice, 13 years of service and current Chairperson; Peter O'Connor, 2 years of service; Suzanne Mosher, 3 years of service; Glenn Wentink, 5 years of service; Jeffrey Hoffenberg, 6 years of service; Dave Schwartz, 7 years of service; Julie Egan, 8 years of service.

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

It was noted that since 2020, the ZBA has heard five applications for variations seeking relief from the following code requirements, two variations seeking relief from the required yard restrictions for patios, one variation seeking relief from the front yard requirement for the construction of an addition, one variation seeking relief from the building coverage maximum for the construction of a new two car garage, and one variation from the prohibited fence locations for a fence located within the front yard.

Members are: Michael Finder 12 years of service and current Chairperson; Liam Bresnahan and Bridget Sheehan, both appointed 6/14/2021; Kate Hennessy, 1 year of service; Anjali Peterson, 2 years of service; Paul Kerpan, 3 years of service; Edwards, 5 years of service.

CITIZEN VOLUNTEERS APPOINTED TO INDIVIDUAL POSITIONS

1. The Fire 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 is one of two resident members of the 5 member Fire Pension Board. Mr. Peterson has served on the Fire Pension Board since June 2015. William O'Brien is the second resident member of the 5-member Fire Pension Board. Mr. O'Brien has served on the Fire Pension Board since October 2020.

2. 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. The Village recognizes the service of Andrew James who was one of two resident members of the 5-member Police Pension Board. Mr. James served on the Board from July 2017 – April 2022. John Mattern is the second resident member of the 5-member Police Pension Board. Mr. Mattern has served on the Board since July 2020.

B. Re-Appointments - Advisory Board and Commissions

President Kuchler read into the record the recommended re-appointments for the advisory boards and commissions.

President Kuchler made a motion to approve the re-appointments seconded by Trustee Kotynek. Motion carried on a voice vote.

3. MANAGER'S REPORT

Village Manager Peterson announced that the Village Hall will be closed on Monday, May 30, 2022 in observance of Memorial Day. She stated that a full complement of public safety personnel will be available in the event of an emergency and regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, May 31.

4. PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS

None.

5. CONSENT AGENDA AND VOTE

A. Award of Contract – Parking Study

B. Resolution - Regional Transit Authority Technical Assistance Program Grant Acceptance Minutes of the Village of La Grange Board of Trustees Regular Meeting, Monday, May 9, 2022

D. Consolidated Voucher 220523

Trustee Augustine inquired about the funds used in excess of the budgeted amount.

Finance Director Cipparrone stated that the current proposal is to use reserve funds to accommodate any budget overage.

She also asked when the parking supply analysis will be conducted.

Community Development Director Jones, stated that all respondents provided similar parking survey proposals. All companies use a similar methodology based on the Urban Land Institute to model parking demand. The survey is to fact check and calibrate to match what is observed. Parking counts are representative from a typical Friday and Saturday, so as not to present an extreme high or low.

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

Resolution - Approving an Agreement Among Classic Cinemas, 80 South LaGrange Inc., and Village of La Grange

President Kuchler introduced the item. President Kuchler stated that the theater is expected to open on May 26. The Village Board determined that the Village Attorney should draft an agreement among Classic Cinemas, 80 South Lagrange Inc., and the Village. The principal purpose of the agreement was to address the method of sharing revenue with Classic Cinemas, and the secondary purpose was to address concerns of the theatre building owner. The Agreement includes the standards and requirements of the Cinema Tax and also addresses the distribution of the tax receipts. The Agreement also includes general provisions such as enforcement of the terms of the Agreement and how a breach of the Agreement is handled. The Theatre Property Owner and Classic Cinemas each has agreed to the terms of the Agreement and have stated they will sign the Agreement.

Village Attorney Burkland confirmed that the easement is permanent.

President Kuchier stated that this a win-win-win for all parties involved and the Village is benefitting from Classic Cinemas. He stated that the renovations look wonderful and it will now be a first run theater.

Chris Johnson, owner of Classic Cinemas stated that he is excited to show the first movie Top Gun: Maverick. He stated that 95% of the auditoriums (#1, 2, 3) are completed with #4 to be completed soon. The renovations include an updated lobby and bathroom, heated reclining seats, bigger screens, new projection and new sound system. Mr. Johnson stated that tickets can be purchased in advance on line or at the kiosk located in the theater lobby. Mr. Johnson thanked the Village and community for their encouragement and energy.

President Kuchler thanked the Village Board for their patience and work.

Trustee Augustine noted that she was thrilled to support the Resolution as the historic theater is a treasure.

President Kuchler motioned to approve a Resolution Approving an Agreement Among Classic Cinemas, 80 South LaGrange Inc., and the Village of La Grange, 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

Laura West, 140 Sunset, expressed concerns about the flooding in La Grange. She noted that recent significant rain events have caused her garage to be submerged. She stated that the situation has gotten worse, and she is disappointed and frustrated.

Stewart Smith, 122 Sunset, stated that there have been challenges with rain and asked for an update on the options. He also noted an increased amount of pot holes.

President Kuchler stated that the Village has been working hard for several years to solve the flooding issues and that flooding is and will continue to be a priority.

President Kuchler stated that the Environmental Quality Commission (EQC) has members of Dry Up La Grange and recently adopted a residential flood rebate / cost share program.

President Kuchler stated that the Village is in litigation with the quarry regarding the Village's planned project to manage flooding south of 47th St. He noted that MARS is the main project north of 47th St. which was started. Currently there is a restrictor to stop half of the flow until the year 2029. He said the Village needs to continue to work with the federal, state, and county for a funding source. The current estimates are about one million dollars per block.

8. TRUSTEE COMMENTS

Trustee Gale stated that the theater agreement is evidence of everyone working together, and appreciates everyone's participation.

Trustee Gale stated that there are no easy answers to the flooding issue. The Village is confronted with climate and infrastructure constraints.

Trustee Augustine stated that the Village is working hard to work on the issues at Sunset and Elm. She suggested possibly gathering Burke Engineering, Department of Public Works and the residents to address what can be done.

President Kuchler stated that Trustee Gale and previous Trustee McCarty have looked into the flooding issue and concluded that priority #1 is litigation.

9. CLOSED SESSION

None

ADJOURNMENT

At 8:44 p.m. Trustee Kotynek made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Trustee Gale. Approved by a voice vote.

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