Sangamon Sun

Village of La Grange Board of Trustees met Dec. 12.

Here are the minutes provided by the board:

CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 

1. The Board of Trustees of the Village o{ La Grange meeting was called to order at 7:36 p.m. by Village Clerk Paul Saladino. On roll call, as read by Clerk Saladino, the following were: 

PRESENT: Trustees Augustine, Kotynek, McGee, O'Brien and Peterson. with President Kuchler presiding. 

ABSENT: Trustee Gale 

OTHERS: Acting Village Manager Charity Jones 

Village Attorney Ben.jamin Schuster 

Public Works Director Richard Colby 

Finance Director Lou Cipparrone 

Police Chief Robert Wardlaw 

Fire Chief Terrance Vavra 

Village Clerk Saladino 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. 

Village Clerk Saladino announced that Trustee Gale was absent due to a family medical issue and all are doing well. 

President Kuchler asked Fire Chief Terry Vavra and his granddaughter Charlotte to lead the audience in reciting the pledge of allegiance. 

2. Public Hearing 

A. Public Hearing - Proposed 2022 Village Property Tax Levy 

President Kuchler stated that the Village will conduct the Proposed 2022 Village Property Tax Levy public hearing. 

President Kuchler explained that the notice of the Public Hearing had been posted and published according to the State Statute. The preliminary 2022 property tax levy was reviewed and discussed in detail at the November 14,2O22yillage Board meeting. As part of this review, it was determined that the increase in the levy would not exceed Truth in Taxation requirements. requiring the Village to hold a public hearing, However, in ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and full disclosure, a public hearing was held to provide residents with an opportunity to comment on the proposed 2022 property tax levy. A notice of the public hearing was posted and published in accordance with the state statute. 

President Kuchler asked if there were any written comments that had been received. Acting Village Manager Charity Jones noted that no written comments had been received. 

President Kuchler asked if anyone in the audience had any comments regarding the Proposed 2022Yillage Property Tax Levy. 

President Kuchler asked if any Trustees had any comments regarding the Proposed 2022 Village Property Tax Levy. 

President Kuchler noted that with no comments, the Village Property Tax Levy hearing was closed. He resumed the regular meeting noting the same attendance. 

3. PRESIDENT'S REPORT 

President Kuchler provided a brief update on the ongoing Ouarry Litigation stating that all the testimony has been completed. The judge requested proposed findings in a statement of the law that was due on December 12, 2022 with both parties submitting their briefs. The matters next up on December 22,2022, are closing arguments with the possibility of an oral ruling. There could also be a written order by mid-January 2023. President Kuchler stated that the Village continues to work closely with Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD), lllinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), and Cook County to implement other projects in other areas of the Village to make sure the Village does everything possible on flood mitigation. 

President Kuchler congratulated and thanked the La Grange Business Association (LGBA) for a very successful holiday walk on Saturday, December 3d. The Dubak Family led the lighting of the holiday tree. lt was very festive and highlighted the downtown as well as the West End. Businesses opened their doors and provided generous giveaways and promotions, displaying their appreciation to the community. Santa and Mrs. Claus, live music, a petting zoo, and various ice sculptures were on display. President Kuchler thanked Peggy Medeiros for donating the tree and Brookfield Tree Service for donating their services to take down and place the tree in the downtown. He noted that an incredible amount of time and effort was put in by Nancy Cummings and the LGBA board and staff. President Kuchler recognized and appreciated the hard work of the Village Public Works Department, Police Department and Fire Department. On behalf ofthe Village Board and Staff. he wished everyone a very happy and healthy holiday season and reminded everyone to continue to shop local. 

President Kuchler recognized Lou Cipparrone and Joe Munizza for their efforts as the Village once again received the Distinguished Budget Award. For the 28th consecutive year, the Village has been awarded the Government Finance Officers Association's (GFOA) "Distinguished Budget Presentation Award" for the FY 2022-23 hudget fhe GFOA guidelines assess how well the village budget serves as a policy document, a {inancial plan, and operations guide and a communications device so the residents know where their tax dollars are being spent. This is a significant accomplishment as La Grange is one of only 1,700 entities throughout the United States and Canada who are being presented with this prestigious award. As a frame of reference there are over 6,000 units o{ government in lllinois alone. 

President Kuchler announced that the La Grange Police Department was conducting a toy drive to help children in need this holiday season. He noted that a drop box will be located in the lobby o{ the Police Department for donated toys. The toys will be donated to the All-Children's Advocacy Center, which works closely with the Police Department to assist children in need. 

President Kuchler announced that the La Grange Police Department received the Illinois Department of Accreditation Award. The ILEAP Accreditation is a phenomenal achievement and it is the first time the La Grange Police Department has received this accreditation. He asked Police Chief Robert Wardlaw to provide more details. 

Chief Wardlaw stated that as part o{ the Village's 2021 strategic plan, one of the Police Departments goals under core services, was to seek state level accreditation. ln December 2021, staff started the process of seeking state level, tier one accreditation under the Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ILEAP). Staff conducted an in-depth review of all department policies and made necessary changes to policies following recommended best practices under ILEAP and the Illinois Police Accreditation Coalition. which is also Safe-T Act compliant. Some of the changes necessary to seek tier one state level accreditation required a complete audit of the police department's property and evidence management system. training of personnel, purchase of equipment, and providing proofs of compliance. 

ln late October / November 2022 the La Grange Police Department underwent an onsite evaluation. The assessment included a review of 67 policies with supporting proof, ride-along with officers, interviews of various department and Village personnel, and a tour and inspection of the department. On December 9, 2022, a letter was received from the ILEAP Council announcing the La Grange police Department was unanimously recognized for accreditation at the tiei one level.

The process has already started to seek tier two accreditation and eventually accreditation at the national level. The department is committed to advancing as a professional organization in order to better serve the needs of the community. Many members assisted in this process, including former Police Chief Jason Cates, Assistant Director Tamie Madden, Sergeant Ken Uher, and many other sergeants and officers in the program. The Chief expressed deep appreciation {or the work that was perpormed for the organization and the Village. 

President Kuchler congratulated the Police Department on receiving tier one accreditation from ILEAP. 

A. Employee Recognition - Captain Jeff Behland - 25 Years of Service 

President Kuchler recognized Captain Jeff Behland for his 25 years of dedicated service to the Village of La Grange. 

Captain Jeff Behland thanked the Village for the recognition. He noted that 25 years goes by in a blink of an eye when every single day is different and keeps you on your toes. He noted that it is what makes being a firefighter the greatest job in the world. 

President Kuchler noted that the Board recognizes that every day for our Fire, Police and Public Works Departments there is something new, with no two days being alike except all the time, every day. these men and women come to work and risk their lives for our benefit and are always professional. The Village appreciates their dedication. 

B. Resolution of Appreciation - Fire Chief Terrance Vavra 

President Kuchler read the Resolution of Appreciation for Fire Chief Terrance Vavra into the record. 

President Kuchler noted that Chief Vavra will be retiring at the end of the year due to state statue that requires an age out which Terry will reach on January 1't. Motion carried on a voice vote. 

President Kuchler expressed appreciation to Chief Vavra for leading La Grange during some difficult times. His professionalism ensured that the LJGrange Fire Department was respected by residents and neighboring Villages. 

Trustee Kotynek offered his sincere thanks for Chief Vavra,s service to La Grange. He stated he has the utmost respeqt for the firefighters in our community and nationwide for their commitment and camaraderie that is not seen in many other professions. He noted that Chief Vavra embodies that spirit and those characteristics and his leadership has been very appreciated.

Trustee Augustine stated that she is sad to see Chief Vavra leave and beyond his skills and capabilities she most admired his sense of humor. She noted that is has been great to have Chief Vavra here, with his kind spirit and great leadership. 

Trustee Peterson stated that it was a pleasure to work with Chief Vavra and thanked him for his service. 

Trustee McGee stated that she has worked with Chief Vavra at the community level noting he was always positive and a respectful representative of the Village. She wished him the best of luck and to enjoy his retirement years with his family. 

Trustee O'Brien thanked Chief Vavra for all that he has done {or the Village and his wealth of knowledge. He wished Chief Vavra good luck. 

Chief Vavra thanked everyone for their kind words. He stated that he knew he was coming to special place the night that he was sworn in. when almost the entire department stood with him, showing their character and integrity. He thanked his family, especially his wife Kris for being his rock. He noted that December 13th is the anniversary of his being sworn in as a firefighter and marks his 46th anniversary in the profession. He appreciates that La Grange Fire Department will be the end of his career, for all the support and how special it is. 

President Kuchler thanked the members of the Fire Department and retired Fire Chief Don Gay for coming and supporting Chie{ Vavra. 

C. Appointment - lnterim Fire Chief 

President Kuchler introduced the item stating that with the retirement of Chief Vavra, the Village Board considered candidates to serve in an lnterim Fire Chief capacity. The lnterim Fire Chief will work closely with all members of the Fire Department to execute assigned Fire Department priorities while a search is conducted for a candidate to serve as permanent Fire Chief. 

John Buckley, formerly of Pleasantview Fire Protection District was identified as the candidate who would best meet the Village's needs at this time. He possesses excellent qualifications, and understands and has demonstrated management leadership over the course of his career. Mr. Buckley has over 33 years of experience in the fire service. working his way through the ranks including Deputy Fire Chief and Fire Chief / Chief Administrator for the pleasantview Fire protection District. Since last year, Mr. Buckley now provides interim Chief services for organizations in transition. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Fire Service Administration and a Master's Degree in Public Safety 

Administration.

As it is a temporary appointment, the services of Interim Fire Chief were proposed to be provided through an independent contractor agreement. As an independent contractor, the position will receive a weekly rate, prorated {or partial weeks of service due to vacation or illness. The position will not be eligible for benefits such as health insurance, paid leave of absences or pension payments. The agreement will commence on January 1,2023 and expire on June 30, 2023, or earlier or later as provided in the terms of the agreement. 

The Appointment of Interim Fire Chief - John Buckley was a motion carried on a voice vote. 

Approval Business Associate Agreement - Interim Fire Chief 

Trustee Kotynek made a motion to approve the Business Associate Agreement for Interim Fire Chief John Buckley, seconded by Trustee McGee. 

Approved by a roll call vote: 

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

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Gale 

D. Appointment of Village Manager 

President Kuchler noted that Charity Jones has been the Acting Village Manager since this summer. She has done a fabulous job to make sure that the Village continued to run well and everyone working with her had the tools they needed to do their jobs to the best of their ability. Charity is a tireless worker and a fine administrator, which was appreciated by all. President Kuchler noted that being Village Manager is a lot of work and a lot of hours. Charity will be moving into the position of Deputy Village Manager while continuing to serve as the Director of Community Development. 

President Kuchler introduced the item to Appoint Jack Knight as the Village Manager of La Grange. Mr. Knight has served for over seventeen years in local government, all within Illinois municipalities. He most recently served as the Assistant Village Manager in the Village of Lisle where he helped shepherd a successful transformation of the organization, focusing on efficiently providing modern services desired by residents and other stakeholders. There. he also contributed to the formulation of two strategic plans and the formulating of several long-term capital plans including water & sewer, bicycle & pedestrian, and information technology plans. Prior to serving in Lisle, Jack served in the Village of Woodridge for nine years acting in a variety of capacities including Management Analyst, Deputy Village Clerk. and Assistant to the Village Administrator. He began his career in municipal government as the Assistant to the Mayor in Orland Park, which is the Village where he grew up. Jack belongs to the International City/County Management Association, Illinois City/County Management Association, and Illinois Municipal Management Assistants Association, where he previously served as its President. He earned his Bachelor's Degree at Loras College and a Master's Degree in Public Affairs from Indiana University. 

Trustee Kotynek made a motion to approve the Appointment of John "Jack" Knight as Village Manger seconded by Trustee Augustine. Motion carried on a voice vote. 

Approval Employment Agreement - Village Manager 

Trustee Kotynek made a motion to approve the Employment Agreement for the Village Manager, seconded by Trustee Peterson. 

Approved by a roll call vote: 

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

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Gale 

President Kuchler asked Clerk Saladino to administer the Oath of Office to John "Jack" Knight. 

Mr. Knight thanked President Kuchler and the Village Board for the opportunity to serve the La Grange Community and expressed his excitement in getting to work with an awesome team. 

President Kuchler wished everyone happy holidays. He stated that 2023 will be a great year for La Grange and reminded everyone to be safe. 

4. MANAGER'S REPORT 

Acting Village Manager Charity Jones stated that the Village Hall will be closed on Monday, December 26th and Monday, January 2nd {or the holidays. Regular business hours will resume on the following Tuesdays. A number of online service options are available to residents at any time. As always, a full complement of public safety personnel is available in the event of an emergency. 

Ms. Jones stated that due to the holidays, refuse service will be pushed back one day for all residents, and holiday trees are scheduled to be picked up the weeks of January 3d through January 12th. Ms. Jones noted that holiday lights can be recycled in seven receptacles located in La Grange and La Grange park. A list of holiday items that can be recycled in the Village's curbside collection program, locations to drop. off holiday lights and more information about holiday refuse services were available on the Village website.

5. PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS 

Peggy Moster, Laurie Sinden and Janice Miller o{ the League of Women Voters - La Grange Chapter, stated that they were aware that the Village received the Regional Transportation Grant enabling the updating of the Villages Comprehensive Plan focused on Transit oriented development, particularly in the West End. They explained that they have been working on a League committee to study housing for the last two years. They are very hopeful that within the new plan there will be language and commensurate action to address housing options {or people in all stations and stages of li{e here in La Grange. This includes the older residents who are thinking of downsizing and staying in La Grange or young families who are in need of starter homes, many who were raised in La Grange and would like to raise their children here as well. From tonight's agenda it appears that the Board will be taking a vote on a contract for a consulting firm who will work with the Village to design the methodologies for gathering input from the community. They appreciate that the Village will be gathering input from residents throughout the study. She stated the League Housing Committee is available to provide the Village and its consultants with the information they have gathered over the course of their studies. 

President Kuchler thanked Ms. Moster and all the work that the League does for the Village throughout the year. lt is much appreciated. 

Jonathan Cowan, 23 W Calendar Avenue, stated that he and his wife Brianna started Wooden Paddle in 2013 in Orland Park with no seating. ln 2017. they started a second location in Lemont, which they will keep. He noted that they are very excited to start a location in La Grange. He explained that the restaurant specializes in small plates with the pizza cooked in a wood fired oven. They serve craft cocktails and have a mobile branch to their business that caters weddings. Their goal is to convert the space on the second level for events. He noted that they are excited for their new venture and to continue the great working relationship with the Village. 

President Kuchler thanked Mr. Cowan and appreciated the investment his family is making in La Grange. He encouraged the Mr. Cowan to join the La Grange Business Association (LGBA) and to work with the Historical Society to learn more about the history of the building at 23 W. Calendar Ave. 

6. CONSENT AGENDA AND VOTE 

A. Ordinance - Design Review Permit #117 - 23 W Calendar Avenue, Brianna and Jonathan Cowan 

B. Purchase - Public Works FY2O22-23 Equipment Replacement Fund: Step Van, Pick-Up Truck, and Two Tractors

Ordinance - Disposal of Vehicles 

C. Contract - Approval of Amendment No. 2 to Lease Agreement with SPRINTCOM LLC 

D. Purchase - Fire Department - Reserve Ambulance 

E. Ordinance - Disposal oI Vehicle 

Resolution - Designating Village Manager as Authorized Signatory on 

F. Village Accounts 

G. Ordinance - Disposal of Surplus Property - Police Department 

H. Minutes of the Village of La Grange Board of Trustees Closed Session, Thursday, November 10, 2022 

l. Minutes of the Village of La Grange Board of Trustees Regular Meeting, Monday, November 14, 2022 

J. Consolidated Voucher 221128 

K. Consolidated Voucher 221212 

A motion was made by Trustee Kotynek to approve the Consent Agenda, seconded by Trustee O'Brien. 

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 Augustine thanked Finance Director Lou Cipparrone and Fire Chief Terry Vavra for the equipment replacement fund as it has been helpful for all departments, especially the Fire Department in relation to the replacement of the ambulance. With teamwork a replacement was found while maintaining the budget and avoiding the purchase of a new ambulance. 

Trustee Kotynek asked Director of Public Works Rick Colby that as ,green, stewards of the Village, if there was option to purchase electrical vehicles, even for some of the newer. more heavy equipment vehicles. 

Director Public Works Rick Colby stated that the vehicles being purchased are the most economical and fuel-efficient engines and 'green' goals are a factor in all the decisions made on vehicle purchases. 

Trustee Peterson noted that coming from the Environmental Quality Commission (EQC). she was appreciative of Mr. Colby's efforts on the purchase of all new vehicles meeting current environmental standards and including eco-friendly truck options for future purchasing. 

Approved by a roll call vote: 

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

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Gale 

7. CURRENT BUSINESS 

A. Ordinance - Abatement of 2022 fax Levy / General Obligation Alternate Revenue Water Bonds, Series 2012A 

President Kuchler asked Trustee Peterson to introduce the item. Trustee Peterson stated that in 2012, the Village Board approved two significant infrastructure improvements to the Village's water system. The first improvement provided for the replacement of the Village's residential and commercial water meters, all of which had reached the end o{ their useful life. The second improvement provided for various mechanical and technical upgrades for the Village's water pumping station located on East Avenue, at Plainfield Road. 

ln order to provide funding for these two capital projects, the Village Board adopted an ordinance on September 10, 2012, authorizing the issuance of $2.08 million in general obligation. alternate revenue water bonds. 

The Series 20124 water bond issue is a general obligation. alternate revenue source issue, backed by the full faith and credit of the Village. This type of bond issue is payable from pledged alternate revenues with the full faith and credit of the Village acting as back-up security. The full faith and credit pledge by the Village authorizes Cook County to annually levy taxes for the bonds unless an abatement for a specific tax levy year is received. 

For the Series 2012A water bond issue. the Village Board has identified revenues derived from water sales as the alternative revenues pledged to pay for principal and interest expenditures relating to this issue. Sufficient monies are budgeted and available with in the Water Fund from water sales in FY 2023-24 to pa! for this expense. Therefore, it is appropriate to abate the portion of the bonds maturing during FY 2023-24lrom the 2022 tax levy.

Trustee Peterson moved to approve the Ordinance for Abatement of 2022 Tax Levy / General Obligation Alternate Revenue Water Bonds, Series 2012A, seconded by Trustee McGee. 

Trustee Kotynek asked if the bonds that are being issued if they were for 20 years and if the amortization would be straight or balloon at the end. 

Lou Cipparrone, Director of Finance stated that yes, all bonds issued are for 20 years with a straight-line amortization. 

Approved by a roll call vote: 

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

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Gale 

B. Ordinance - Abatement of 2022 Tax Levy / General Obligation Alternate Revenue Sewer Bonds, Series 2015 

President Kuchler asked Trustee Peterson to introduce the item. Trustee Peterson stated that in 2015, the Village Board deliberated and subsequently approved a set of revenue enhancements which in the aggregate enabled the Village to address critical sewer needs. ln order to provide funding for these sewer improvement projects, the Village Board adopted an ordinance on August 24, 2015, authorizing the issuance of $14.5 million in general obligation, alternate revenue sewer bonds. 

The Series 2015 sewer bond issue is a general obligation. alternate revenue source issue, backed by the full faith and credit of the Village. This type of bond issue is payable from pledged alternate revenues with the full faith and credit of the Village acting as back-up security. The full faith and credit pledge by the Village authorizes Cook County to annually levy taxes for the sewer bonds unless an abatement for a specific tax levy year is received. For the Series 2015 sewer bond issue, the Village Board identified revenues derived from non-home rules sales tax, utility tax, telecommunications tax and sewer sales as the alternative revenues pledged to pay for principal and interest expenditures relating to this issue. 

Sufficient monies are budgeted and available within the General Fund and Sewer Fund from the various taxes and sewer s ales in Fy 2023-24 to pay for this expense. Therefore, it is appropriate to abate the portion of the bonds maturing during Fy 2023-24 from the 2022 tax levy.

Trustee Peterson moved to approve the Ordinance for Abatement of 2022 Tax Levy / General Obligation Alternate Revenue Sewer Bonds, Series 2015, seconded by Trustee Augustine. 

Approved by a roll call vote: 

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

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Gale 

C. Acceptance of Resolution - Library Board Tax Levy Request 

President Kuchler asked Trustee Peterson to introduce the item. Trustee Peterson stated that the La Grange Library is a "municipal library" rather than a separate "public library district" and as such must levy property taxes as part of the Village of La Grange tax levy. lf it is necessary for Cook County to reduce the property tax levy as a result of the Property Tax Limitation Act, the Library tax levy will be reduced in the same proportion as the other Village tax levies, which does not affect the Village's taxing ability for the 2022 extension. 

The La Grange Library Board of Trustees 2022 tax levy request for operating purposes is $2,769,651 which is a 4.6 percent increase, including new growth, over last year's tax levy. This amount is less than the allowable 5.6 percent increase under the Property Tax Limitation Act and is equal to the increase of the Village tax levy request. 

Representatives from the La Grange Library were in attendance at the Village Board meeting to address any questions regarding the Library's levy request. 

Trustee Peterson moved to accept the La Grange Public Library Resolution approved by the Library Board. seconded by Trustee McGee. 

Approved by a roll call vote: 

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

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Gale 

D. Ordinance - 2Q22 Property Tax Levy {or Village Operations 

President Kuchler asked Trustee Peterson to introduce the item. Trustee Peterson stated that the preliminary 2022 property tax lev), was reviewed and discussed in detail at the November 14,2022Yillage Board meeting. As part of this review, it was determined that the increase in the levy would not exceed Truth in Taxation requirements requiring the Village to hold a public hearing. However, in ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and full disclosure, a public hearing was held earlier this evening in order provide residents with an opportunity to comment on the 2022 property tax levy. 

Pursuant to direction from the Village Board, the final 2022 tax levy reflects a total increase of 4.6 percent, exclusive of debt service, over the prior year's tax extension (see Attachment 1). The property tax increase includes a 4.0% increase to fund operations/capital expenditures, which is less than the allowable 5% increase under the property tax limitation act (CPl limit as of December, 2021). 

The remaining levy increase of 0.6% represents estimated new growth of 5 million Equalized Assessed Valuation (EAV)from anticipated residential and commercial construction during the next fiscal year. lf such new growth does not occur, the property tax levy will automatically be lowered by Cook County. 

The effect of the 2022levy will have on an average home with an estimated market value of $500,000 is in an increase of $62.13 from the Village levy and an increase of $19.65 from the Library levy. 

As part of the annual property tax levy, a Special Service Area 7 levy is filed with Cook County to fund on-going maintenance of the Central Business District. By ordinance, the Special Service Area levy is to be adjusted annually by up to the Consumer Price Index. Pursuant to direction from the Village Board of Trustees, the 2022 Special Service Area also reflects an increase of 4.0 percent over last year's levy of $99,981. 

ln 2016, the Village also approved an ordinance establishing Special Service Area 9 to provide a reserve fund in the amount of $10,000 for maintenance, repair, construction. replacement and similar services relating to the Uptown La Grange development sidewalk. Pursuant to the SSA ordinance, in subsequent years, the Village will discontinue the levy. until such time money is expended from the reserve fund, at which time the Village will then levy the amount necessary to replenish the reserve fund of $10,000, plus interest at a rate not to exceed 5 percent per year. As no funds were expended from the reserve for sidewalk maintenance or repairs, the Village will not impose a levy for SSA 9 as part of the 2022 property tax levy request to Cook County. 

Trustee Peterson moved to approve the Ordinance for the 2022 property Tax Levy for Village Operations, seconded by Trustee McGee. 

President Kuchler thanked the Board for supporting the 4.60/0 increase which is less than the property tax cap act allows which is 5% or the cost-of-living increase which was considerably higher than 5%. He thanked all department heads and Village staff for their hard work. lt is high inflationary times with the prices of everything are going up. Through the staff's hard work, they were able to limit at least the increase in property taxes. 

Approved by a roll call vote: 

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

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Gale 

E. Intergovernmental Agreement - Regional Transportation Authority 

Award of Contract - Comprehensive Plan and BNSF Corridor 

Subarea Plan Update 

President Kuchler stated that On I/ay 9, 2005, the Village adopted its current Comprehensive Plan and BNSF Railroad Corridor Subarea Plan (the "Comprehensive Plan"). The Comprehensive Plan is the official policy guide to future land use, development, and conservation within the Village for a period of 20 years for use by the Village Board, Plan Commission, and staff when considering land use changes and capital planning. The Village funded the 2005 Comprehensive Plan in part through a grant from the Regional Transportation Authority (the "RTA"). The RTA funded the BNSF Railroad Corridor Subarea Plan portion of the document. which provides policy recommendations for the Transit Oriented Development area within roughly one quarter mile of the Metra stations, and the Village funded the balance of the Comprehensive Plan. 

As the 20-year period of the current Comprehensive Plan is nearing its end, and consistent with the objectives of the Village Board's Strategic Plan, the Village applied for and was granted funds from the RTA to update the BNSF Railroad Corridor Subarea Plan. On May 23, 2Q22, the Village Board approved Resolution R-22-06, accepting the grant funds from the RTA. 

ln May. the RTA identified a total project cost of up to $100,000 for both fiscal years FY 2022-23 and FY 2023-24. A budget amendment will be required to reallocate the remaining funds to FY 2023-24. 

The Village Attorney, Ben Schuster. has reviewed the attached IGA and prepared the professional services agreement with Teska Associates, Inc. Staff recommended that the Village Board approve both agreements with the RTA and with Teska Associates Inc. 

Trustee Augustine moved to approve the Intergovernmental Agreement with the Regional Transportation Authority and Award of Contract - Comprehensive plan and BNSF Corridor Subarea Plan Update, seconded by Trustee [4cGee.

Approved by a roll call vote: 

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

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Gale 

8. PUBLIC COMMENT 

None. 

9. TRUSTEE COMMENTS 

Trustee Augustine expressed her appreciation residents and staff. 

10. CLOSED SESSION 

None. 

11, ADJOURNMENT 

At 9:30 p.m. Trustee Kotynek made a motion to adjourn seconded by Augustine. Approved by a roll call vote