123 Madison Street

Oak Park, Illinois 60302

www.oak-park.us

Village of Oak Park

Meeting Minutes

President and Board of Trustees

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

6:00 PM

Remote

I. Call to Order

Village President Scaman called the meeting to order at 6:05 P.M. She

authorized a statement be read providing that the meeting is being held

remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines and that it is not

prudent to have people present at the Village Board's regular meeting

location due to public health concerns related to that pandemic.

II. Roll Call

6 -

Present:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

Absent:

III. Agenda Approval

It was moved by Village Trustee Parakkat, seconded by Village Trustee

Robinson, to approve the Agenda. The motion was approved. The roll call on

the vote was as follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

IV. Minutes

ID 22-284

Motion to Approve Minutes from Regular Remote Meeting of August 1,

2022 of the Village Board.

It was moved by Village Trustee Taglia, seconded by Village Trustee Parakkat, to

approve the Minutes. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as

follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

V. Non-Agenda Public Comment

The following person read their Non-Agenda Public Comment aloud:

Laura Smith: Laura Smith spoke their public comment thanking the

Village Board and staff for considering the neighbor's request to remove

the Taylor Avenue curb cut at the BP Gas station. They believe the removal

of the curb cut will make a significant improvement to the safety and traffic

concerns coming from the gas station, and, as a neighbor recently

documented in video, the fact that fuel trucks do not use the Taylor Avenue

entrance should be sufficient evidence to close that curb cut.

Clerk Waters read the following Non-Agenda Public Comments aloud:

Lindsay Bremer: Lindsay Bremer submitted their public comment

expressing their concern for the dangerous driving at the Jackson

Boulevard and Home Avenue intersection. They feel the traffic calming

measure procedure that the Village follows is slow moving and does not

show the community that safe streets are a priority, and requests that the

Board work with village staff to implement changes to the way traffic is

studied and add additional traffic calming measures to address traffic

issues throughout the village.

Christopher Bremer: Christopher Bremer submitted their public

comment expressing their concern for the dangerous driving at the Jackson

Boulevard and Home Avenue intersection. They ask the Board to heed the

call to make real changes to make Jackson Boulevard a safer street for

kids, pedestrians, and bicyclists.

Lauren Hyde: Lauren Hyde submitted their public comment expressing

their concern of the dangerous driving along Jackson Boulevard and

Home Avenue. They feel the traffic calming measure procedure that the

Village follows is slow moving and does not show the community that safe

streets are a priority, and requests that the Board work with village staff to

implement changes to the way traffic is studied and add additional traffic

calming measures to address traffic issues throughout the village.

Sue McFarlin: Sue McFarlin submitted their public comment expressing

their concern of the dangerous intersection and Home and Jackson. The

intersection is part of the main walking route for Brooks students who live

south of the 290 and makes it scary to allow the children to walk to school.

They hope the village will consider studying the traffic patterns in their

neighborhood. A traffic calming plan needs to be developed and

implemented before another serious accident or injury occurs.

Rebecca Davis: Rebecca Davis submitted their public comment

expressing concern at the danger of the corner of Home and Jackson

where they live. The neighborhood recently witnessed an accident from a

funeral procession where a car flipped onto her neighbor's yard. They feel

the danger has increased since the implementation of the Madison Ave

Road Diet, and yet the village did not ensure the residential spillover

streets would also be made safer. They asked that the Village Board vote

to add additional traffic calming measures to this list to include, but not

limited to, roundabouts on residential streets and speed humps.

Charlotte Middlebrook: Charlotte Middlebrook submitted their public

comment expressing concern at the danger of the corner of Home and

Jackson. Each day at this intersection they see cars not come to a

complete stop or not stop at all, cars go around a stopped car in order to

run the stop sign, a cyclist get hit, a car turn over, and several other very

close calls. They ask the Village of Oak Park to please consider taking

action as soon as possible to make this a safer intersection.

Rebecca Hesser: Rebecca Hesser submitted their public comment

expressing their concern around the traffic at the intersection of Home and

Jackson. Being home during the pandemic, they are acutely more aware of

the reckless driving at the intersection and do not feel comfortable letting

their children cross the street to play with friends. They asked the Board to

vote to add additional traffic calming measures to address traffic issues

throughout the village.

VI. Proclamation

MOT 22-80

A Motion to Approve a Proclamation Celebrating Mexican Independence

Day on September 16, 2022.

Trustee Robinson read the Proclamation aloud.

Trustee Robinson then expressed her thanks to Clerk Waters for asking

her to read the Proclamation, adding it was an honor to read the

Proclamation and important to our core principles to acknowledge the

diversity of the community.

It was moved by Village Trustee Buchanan, seconded by Village Trustee

Robinson, to approve the Motion. The motion was approved. The roll call on the

vote was as follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

MOT 22-81

A Motion to Approve a Proclamation for Hope for the Day’s 2022 National

Suicide Prevention + Action Month in September.

Trustee Taglia read the Proclamation aloud.

Bev Schwartz, Development Coordinator from Hope for the Day, thanked

the Board for their support and reminded the community their services are

available should they need it.

It was moved by Village Trustee Enyia, seconded by Village Trustee Robinson, to

approve the Motion. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as

follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

MOT 22-82

A Motion to Approve a Proclamation Collaborating for Kids Day in Honor

of John Borrero on August 31, 2022.

President Scaman read the Proclamation aloud.

Becky Streit, Board Chair for the Collaboration for Early Childhood,

thanked the Board for the Proclamation for John Borrero and for their

continued support for the Collaboration for Early Childhood.

It was moved by Village Trustee Parakkat, seconded by Village Trustee

Buchanan, to approve the Motion. The motion was approved. The roll call on the

vote was as follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

MOT 22-83

A Motion to Approve a Proclamation for National Recovery Month.

Kelly O'Connor, Prevention Services Manager at Oak Park Township, read

the Proclamation aloud.

Anita Pinduir, Executive Director of The Way Back Inn, then thanked the

village and the Township as we celebrate another National Recovery Month

and remember all who are recovering and continue to struggle, as well as

those who live happy lives through recovery.

It was moved by Village Trustee Buchanan, seconded by Village Trustee

Robinson, to approve the Motion. The motion was approved. The roll call on the

vote was as follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

VII. Village Manager Reports

Village Manager Kevin Jackson introduced Doctor Danielle Walker, the

new Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, who gave a brief

background of herself. She is enjoying establishing connections in the

community as she becomes familiar with the village's equity goals.

Kira Tchang, Human Resource Director and Assistant Village Manager,

then gave an update on the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners work

on lateral police hires.

Director of Public Works, Rob Sproule, then gave an update on actions

taken at the request of the Board from the August 1, 2022 meeting

regarding the 500 block of North Taylor and the installation of rumble strips

and a speed wagon, a pinch-point, and the feasibility analysis on a

potential gate at the east entrance of the BP Gas Station.

Trustee Taglia commented he is eager to move forward with the requests

for the 500 block of North Taylor and is interested in hearing more back

from the owner of the gas station regarding his concern with the installation

of a gate at the gas station.

Trustee Buchanan requested clarification if staff is looking for direction

tonight from the Board regarding the gate.

Village Manager Jackson responded no.

Trustee Parakkat requested clarification on if the gas station owner has

been responsive to the village's requests.

Village Manager Jackson responded they have continued to express a

willingness to cooperate with the village.

VIII. Village Board Committee & Trustee Liaison Commission Reports

Trustee Buchanan announced there will be a Sustainability Symposium on

September 24 at the high school from 9:30am to 11:45am. It will be a

chance for the residents to learn about the Climate Action Plan as well as

other steps to lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Trustee Parakkat reported the Citizens Information Systems Commission

express concerns over the lack of a mobile application for the website

upgrade and the Granicus software.

IX. Citizen Commission Vacancies

ID 22-283

Board & Commission Vacancy Report for September 6, 2022.

There was no further discussion of this Item.

X. Citizen Commission Appointments, Reappointments and Chair Appointments

ID 22-281

Motion to Consent to the Village President’s Appointment of:

Aging in Place Commission - Susan Stall, Appoint as Member

Building Codes Advisory Commission - Frank Heitzman, Appoint as Member

Citizen Involvement Commission - Caronllina Song, Appoint as Member

Citizen Involvement Commission - Robert Andrew (Drew) Miller, Appoint as

Member

Citizen Involvement Commission - Ron Elling, Appoint as Member

Citizen Involvement Commission - Ron Roman, Appoint as Member

Citizen Police Oversight Committee - Kevin Barnhart, Reappoint as Member

Citizen Police Oversight Committee - Sue Humphreys, Reappoint as Member

Civic Information Systems Commission - Clay Ewing, Appoint as Member

Disability Access Commission - Gary Arnold, Appoint as Chair

It was moved by Village Trustee Buchanan, seconded by Village Trustee Enyia,

to approve the Report. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was

as follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

XI. Consent Agenda

The following persons spoke their Agenda Public Comments aloud:

Jim Gilchrist: Jim Gilchrist spoke their public comment regarding the

building at 7 Van Buren who is asking to waive their fees. They do not feel

the village should waive the fees for a number of reasons, including

ResCorp's (Oak Park Residence Corp) promise they would not ask for

special exemptions, and the number of village resources they have been

waisting as far as calls to the police and fire to respond to safety issues at

the site. They asked the Board to not allow special treatment and to deny

the request.

Colleen Hintz: Colleen Hintz spoke their public comment on behalf of

many neighbors in the area who are extremely disappointment in the

waiver exemption request from ResCorp. They feel it is not financially

prudent or responsible for the village to unnecessarily incur over $15,000

income loss on behalf of a for-profit development, money that could be

used in the neighborhood for other services that would increase the safety

and otherwise be of benefit to the neighborhood. ResCorp is asking to be

treated with favoritism and financial preferential treatment.

Frank Vozak: Frank Vozak spoke their public comment expressing their

opposition to the Board waiving the fees requested by ResCorp. They feel

the developers should pay the fines and fees that they knew they would

have to pay as part of the project. The developer stated they would not ask

for waivers and he should be kept to his word. Additionally, the developer

did not install the rat abatement measures as promised and the result is the

neighbors are getting their fair share of rats and have to pay out of pocket

for private pest control.

Approval of the Consent Agenda

It was moved by Village Trustee Robinson, seconded by Village Trustee

Parakkat, to approve the items under the Consent Agenda. The motion was

approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

RES 22-195

A Resolution Approving A Purchase And Subscription Agreement With

Granicus, LLC For Village Website And Other Services Through A Master

Agreement Secured By The National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance For A

Term of Three Years In An Amount Not To Exceed $109,717.72 Annually,

Authorizing its Execution And Waiving The Village’s Bid Process For The

Agreement

This Resolution was adopted.

RES 22-198

A Resolution Authorizing the Submission of a Safe Streets and Roads for All

(SS4A) Grant Application with the United States Department of

Transportation for a Vision Zero Plan

This Resolution was adopted.

A Motion to Receive the Citizen Police Oversight Committee Semi-Annual

Written Report to the Village Board of Trustees

This Motion was approved.

A Motion to Approve the Unaudited Year-to-Date Quarterly Financial

Report as of June 30, 2022

This Motion was approved.

A Motion to Approve the Bills in the Amount of $5,617,346.67 from July 8,

2022, through August 11, 2022

This Motion was approved.

A Motion to Approve the July 2022 Monthly Treasurer’s Report for All

Funds

This Motion was approved.

A Resolution Approving an Amendment to the Subrecipient Grant

Agreement Between the Village of Oak Park and United Cerebral Palsy

Seguin of Greater Chicago and Authorizing its Execution

This Resolution was adopted.

ORD 22-55

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 8 (“Business Licensing”), Article 40

(“Short-Term Rentals”), Section 8-40-1 (“Definitions”), and Section 8-40-5

(“Standards”) of the Oak Park Village Code

This Ordinance was adopted.

ORD 22-56

RES 22-193

An Ordinance Waiving and Suspending the Right of Way Obstruction

Permit Fee and Parking Obstruction Fee for the Planned Development at 7

Van Buren Street

This Ordinance was adopted.

A Resolution Authorizing the Submission of a United States Department of

Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Programs Grant to Prevent or Reduce

crime and Violence, and to Increase Access to Justice

This Resolution was adopted.

RES 22-194

RES 22-196

A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Settlement Agreement in Cook

County Circuit Court Case Number 2019 L 009144

This Resolution was adopted.

A Resolution Approving an Amendment to the Independent Contractor

Agreement with Midwest Services and Development Corp. for the South

Fire Station Bunk Room, Locker Room, and Restroom Renovations Project

to Extend the Term of the Agreement from September 30, 2022, to March

31, 2023, and Authorizing its Execution

This Resolution was adopted.

RES 22-197

A Resolution Approving an Amendment to the Purchase Price Agreement

with Water Products Company of Aurora, Inc. for Materials for Repair of

Water Mains and Sewers, Fire Hydrants, Water Services, and Sewer

Services to Change the Not to Exceed Amount from $30,000.00 to

$40,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution

This Resolution was adopted.

RES 22-199

RES 22-205

A Resolution Approving a Contract with Schroeder and Schroeder, Inc. for

Project 22-3, Sidewalk Improvements, in an Amount Not to Exceed

$440,609 and Authorizing its Execution

This Resolution was adopted.

A Resolution Approving a Change Order to the Estimates of Cost and

Authority to Work Agreements with AT&T Illinois for the Design and

Relocation of Communications Facilities for the Vacation of South Euclid

Avenue for the Senior Living Center Development at 703 Madison Street to

Change the Not to Exceed Amount from $1,250,000 to $1,285,832

This Resolution was adopted.

RES 22-206

A Resolution Approving an Independent Contractor Agreement with

Alliance Contractors, Inc. for the South Boulevard Streetscape Project in an

Amount Not to Exceed $12,573 and Authorizing its Execution

This Resolution was adopted.

RES 22-208

ORD 22-57

RES 22-209

A Resolution Approving a Sales Tax Sharing Agreement Between the Village

of Oak Park and 1144 Lake Street, LLC and Authorizing Its Execution

This Resolution was adopted.

An Ordinance Authorizing the Sale of Surplus Vehicles and Equipment

Owned by the Village of Oak Park

This Ordinance was adopted.

A Resolution Approving a Professional Services Agreement with

Occupational Health Centers of Illinois, P.C., d/b/a Concentra Medical

Centers, and Authorizing its Execution

This Resolution was adopted.

RES 22-210

AA.

A Resolution Setting Halloween “Trick or Treat” Hours from 4:00 p.m. to

8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 31, 2022

This Resolution was adopted.

XII. Regular Agenda

ORD 22-53

AB.

An Ordinance Granting an Extension of Time to Complete Construction of

the Planned Development at 715-717 South Boulevard (Residences of

South Boulevard) to May 31, 2023

Village Manager Jackson introduced the Item.

Tammie Grossman, Director of Development Customer Services, then

gave an overview of the Item.

Art Gurevich, the developer on the project, then gave some background on

his request for the additional extension for his project.

Trustee Taglia commented that the other projects in the village do not

appear to be suffering the same delays that have held up this project. He

feels five years is a long time to wait on the completion of this project, and

expressed concerns over its impact on a significant loss in property tax

revenue due to the building being unoccupied. He is in support for

exploring implementing penalties in the plan development ordinance

moving forward, and proposed a three month extension, not the nine month

extension, so the Board can monitor the progress of the project.

Trustee Robinson shared Trustee Taglia's concerns and requested more

details for the nine month extension.

Trustee Parakkat requested clarification on what the village's recourse is

should the developer request an additional extension at the end of this nine

month extension.

Director Grossman responded if the Board does not approve the

extension, the developer will have to start the plan development process

again and have another hearing and come back to the Board for the

approval of the plan development. Staff does not believe that is a good

outcome and is hopeful the developer will be able to complete the project.

Trustee Buchanan requested clarification if it is unusual to have these many

extension requests.

Director Grossman the Board has approved extensions in the past, but it is

not typically for this many extension requests.

Mr. Gurevech responded the request for a nine month extension is to

ensure the project will be finished. The development is 80% complete and

they are waiting on the appliances and cabinets, which have been ordered.

For them, it is a huge financial burden to carry this building for so long and

is expensive, so it is not done out of them being leisurely about completing

the project. Financially they are fine, bankruptcy is not an issue - it is just

taking time to complete.

Trustee Robinson suggested a shorter extension to allow for the developer

to check in and report back on their progress.

Village Manager Jackson recommended a four month extension, with a

status update in January.

Mr. Gurevech requested to keep the nine month extension, with the

provision that he would be checking in with village staff on the progress of

the project regularly.

Trustee Enyia would support the nine month extension with regular check

ins and status updates from the developer with staff to ensure the project is

not being further delayed.

Trustee Parakkat requested clarification on if the village could impose a

penalty to recoup the loss tax revenue at the end of the nine month

extension.

Director Grossman responded the development process does not have a

penalty provision; the penalty would be for the developer to go back through

the development process.

President Scaman recommended to keep the nine month extension with

the provision that the developer would have regular check-ins with staff with

the status updates relayed to the Board.

After the roll call vote, Trustee Taglia recommended giving direction to staff

to consider options for considering penalties on the plan development

process moving forward.

President Scaman agreed, and directed staff to move forward with the

recommendation from Trustee Taglia.

It was moved by Village Trustee Parakkat, seconded by Village Trustee

Robinson, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll

call on the vote was as follows:

4 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, and

Village Trustee Parakkat

2 - Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

ORD 22-51

AC.

Concur with the Plan Commission’s Recommendation and Adopt an

Ordinance Granting a Special Use Permit to Install Six 80-90-Foot-Tall Light

Standards at the Oak Park-River Forest High School South Athletic Field

located at 501 Lake Street

Village Manager Jackson introduced the Item.

The following persons spoke their Agenda Public Comments aloud:

Stephen Tyma: Stephen Tyma spoke their public comment expressing

their opposition the request from District 200. There have been four

proposals for the installation of lights on D200 facilities, and each proposal

has been defended on the ground that the changes are small. The totality of

these changes is not small in impact on the neighbors.

Stephen Allsteadt: Stephen Allsteadt spoke their public comment

believing the Plan Commission fell short in their obligation to the

community by limiting testimony to only the lighting changes and restricting

testimony regarding the use of the south field. They feel the changes in the

south field will have undue adverse effects on the adjacent residential

property and suggested the high school redesign the location on home

plate to mitigate the noise to neighbors.

Thomas Gallagher: Thomas Gallagher, a member of the Plan

Commission speaking as a citizen, spoke their public comment urging the

Board to support the Plan Commission's recommendation.

Director Tammie Grossman then gave an overview introduction of the Item.

Craig Failor, Village Planner, then gave an overview of the Item.

Plan Commission Chair Iris Sims then gave an overview of the Plan

Commission's review of the Item.

President Scaman then read a statement saying in her role as President,

early on she had a discussion with Board President Tom Cofsky of School

District 200 (D200) regarding the application, or at least it ended up being

in their dialogue. She did speak with President Cofsky, and the

conversation will not sway her decision in this matter. Her vote will be

based on the hearing record and not on that conversation.

Greg Johnson, Superintendent for D200, clarified the portable PA system

language in the application was added at the last minute by the Plan

Commission. Once staff had vetted the additional language, they

concluded it would be restricting D200 from doing something that is

currently done for larger competitions. They are hoping to find a solution

tonight for this dilemma.

Trustee Robinson requested clarification if the 5/2 vote was for the original

application or the application with the additional language regarding the

PA system.

Village Planner Failor responded it was for the application with the added

language. He also clarified the two "no" votes were in support of what the

high school wanted to do with the lights the but voted "no" due to the

additional language regarding the PA system.

Trustee Robinson requested clarification from Superintendent Johnson if

the added language would be restrictive to the usage of a PA System.

Superintendent Johnson responded yes, it would no allow them to use the

small portable PA system.

Trustee Robinson stated they are in support of approving the Ordinance

that excludes the PA system condition.

Trustee Taglia commented you cannot control the spillover of audio into the

neighborhoods, and he is listening to the resident's concerns. He

expressed his support of the recommendation as presented by the Plan

Commission.

Trustee Buchanan expressed support for the light recommendations, but is

not in support of restricting the PA system, and are in agreement with

staff's recommendation.

Trustee Parakkat stated they feel the Plan Commission has done their due

diligence regarding the PA System and is in support of their

recommendation.

Trustee Enyia expressed his gratitude for all the due diligence that went

into this Item, but feels the lack of a PA system would not be beneficial. He

expressed his support of the staff recommendation.

Trustee Buchanan commented the issue with the PA system was not

adequately addressed with the Plan Commission. They suggested tabling

this part of the discussion of the PA system as a separate discussion, and

requested clarification on the consequences if they pass an Ordinance

restricting the use of the PA System.

President Scaman commented there seems to be enough Board support

to pass the version of the Ordinance that does not include the PA System

at this time. She expressed her support of the staff recommendation that

does not include a restriction on the PA system.

President Scaman then asked if Trustees Enyia and Buchanan were

agreeable to a friendly amendment to the original motion to adopt the

staff's recommendation that does not include the PA system restrictions.

Trustees Enyia and Buchanan agreed.

It was moved by Village Trustee Enyia, seconded by Village Trustee Buchanan,

to adopt the Ordinance as amended. The motion was approved. The roll call on

the vote was as follows:

4 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, and

Village Trustee Robinson

2 - Village Trustee Parakkat, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

ID 22-254

AD.

Presentation Regarding Essential Calls for Service Evaluation Related to the

Village’s Community Safety Project

Village Manager Jackson introduced the Item.

Rasheeda Jackson, the Assistant Village Attorney, then introduced

Michelle Weintzetl, the BerryDunn consultant, who gave a presentation on

the Item.

Trustee Parakkat commented he liked the analysis and how it framed the

options provided. He asked what the reactions have been around what was

presented.

Michele Weinzetl responded there were consistent responses both

internally and externally in terms of whether the police department and the

community had a level of comfort with diverting certain calls for services to

some other resource.

Interim Police Chief Shatonya Johnson commented when it comes to

mental health responses, they believe the co-response model with Thrive

is very effective, but the police department is supportive of looking at

alternative calls for service.

Trustee Parakkat requested clarification if they were looking to utilize a

hybrid model approach.

Michele Weinzetl responded in the affirmative.

Village Manager Jackson added the plan is to put a multidisciplinary

committee together of internal and external stakeholders to review how the

current system is performing, if there are any new opportunities or gaps,

and work together to formulate a model that best represents the community

moving forward.

Trustee Buchanan requested that the report clarify what the terms

"rowdies" and "suspicious" mean and to have them included along with the

mental health calls as calls that do not need an armed person.

Michele Weinzetl responded there are pieces that require additional review

and consideration. They did not change any of the terminology within the

system, and there is an issue with the lack of granularity in some cases.

Adjusting some of those terms may help improve not only the

understanding of what those calls are, but then making sure the right

resources are sent to those calls.

Trustee Taglia requested clarification on the expected timetable on the roll

out for this.

Michele Weinzetl responded it may take a period of months based on the

model, analysis, and defining needed resources for recommendations.

Village Manager Jackson agreed, adding alternative calls for service are

comprehensive but there are pieces within that are a priority, like the

alternative mental health crisis response. In regards to the alternative

mental health crisis response, he expects the committee will help formulate

recommendations for the Board to consider before the end of the calendar

year, but there are many other types of calls that need to be looked at to

find when it is appropriate for the police to respond - so that will be

ongoing.

Trustee Parakkat requested clarification if the $300,000 earmarked in

2022 budget will be available for 2023.

Kevin Jackson responded that is substantially correct; it will depend on

discussions and findings with the committee, and if there are any needs

that we currently have to arrive at the recommendation of the Board that

could benefit from immediate funding.

Sarah Wiemeyer, Clinical Director at Thrive Counseling Center,

commented Governor Pritzker signed into law the CESSA Law

(Community Emergency Services and Supports Act) which will be

implemented January 2023, so the state is working towards a model for

alternative responses throughout the state, and Thrive will be working as a

state provider for the program. This will be happening concurrently with Oak

Park's program and much of what is being discussed tonight will be

discussed at the regional level as well.

RES 22-218

AE.

A Resolution Approving an Amendment to a Contract with R.W. Dunteman

Company for Project 22-2, Resurfacing of Various Streets, to Change the

Not to Exceed Amount from $3,199,000 to $3,205,000 to Install a Pinch

Point on the 500 Block of North Taylor Avenue and Authorizing its

Execution

The following person spoke their Public Comment aloud:

Samantha Ditore: Samantha Ditore, attorney representing the BP gas

station owners, recognized that there has been no decision made yet on

the BP gas station but made themselves available for any questions.

Rob Sproule, the Director of Public Works, then introduced the Item.

Village Engineer Bill McKenna then gave an overview of the Item.

Trustee Robinson requested clarification on the location choice for the

pinch point.

Village Engineer McKenna responded the location is kind of the summit of

the curve elevation, and installing pinch points at the high point of the

roadway helps to not impact storm drainage so they do not need to do any

additional drainage work.

It was moved by Village Trustee Robinson, seconded by Village Trustee Enyia, to

adopt the Resolution. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as

follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

ORD 22-63

AG.

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 16 (“Nuisances”), Article 8 (“Criminal

Nuisance Abatement”) of the Oak Park Village Code

Village Manager Jackson introduced the Item.

Village Attorney Paul Stephanides then gave an overview of the Item.

Trustee Robinson requested clarification regarding the removal of the 10

day requirement from section 16.33.

Attorney Stephanides responded it is contained in 16.33.3B where, after

complying with the notification procedures, and after the 10 days have

passed, they have to immediately meet with the Chief of Police and the

Village Manager and develop a plan and immediately comply. The intention

is to shorten the time frame for action to be taken so there is not an

additional 10 day period.

Trustee Robinson requested clarification as to what happens to a business

whose license has been revoked - are they allowed to apply for a new

license for the same or new type of business?

Attorney Stephanides responded they cannot, as is stated in section 8.1.14

of the village code.

Trustee Taglia expressed his support of the Ordinance as it holds

businesses accountable and makes some steps to alleviate criminal

activity moving forward. He stated it does not address the violent crimes of

opportunity that we have experienced in Oak Park and 24-hour gas

stations, and he does not believe there is a connection between a nuisance

ordinance, no matter how severe, and a reduction of gun violence and other

violent crimes in the village.

It was moved by Village Trustee Robinson, seconded by Village Trustee

Parakkat, to approve the Ordinance. The motion was approved. The roll call on

the vote was as follows:

6 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

ID 22-286

AH.

Discussion of Public Safety of 24-Hour Gas Station

Village Manager Jackson introduced the Item.

The following persons spoke their Public Comment aloud:

Diane (?): Diane spoke their public comment and read a letter from over

160 neighbors and residents of Oak Park urging the Board to prohibit the

overnight operation of gas stations in Oak Park to reduce the opportunity

for violent criminal activity in the community. They appreciate the affirmative

steps the Board has taken with the pinch point and to limit the use of the

driveway on Taylor Avenue to address the traffic and safety issues, and

urge the Board at this meeting to enact a village-wide prohibition on the

24-hour gas stations in Oak Park.

Kim Vulinovic: Kim Vulinovic spoke their public comment stating the

nighttime closing of the gas station has brought significant improvement to

their lives for the first time in 28 years and is an enormous benefit to their

lives. The reduced hours and police presence has helped to keep the

atmosphere of the gas station more respectful and safe during the day.

They urged the Board to makes these changes permanent.

Samantha Ditore: Samantha Ditore, the attorney for the gas station

owner, reiterated their commitment to continue their discussions with

Village Attorney Stephanides and Village Manager Jackson.

Kathleen Bokar: Kathleen Bokar spoke their public comment stating

since the gas station owner has restricted their operating hours they have

noticed a significant decrease in traffic and noise at night. This is a vast

improvement to their quality of sleep and peace of mind. They do not

understand why there is a gas station in a residential neighborhood when

there are 20 other gas stations accessible. There is not justifiable reason

to have a 24 hour business in a residential neighborhood, and is in favor of

limiting the hours of 24 hour gas stations throughout Oak Park.

Carolyn Newbury-Schwartz: Carolyn Newbury-Schwartz spoke their

public comment on behalf of Georgina Swanson. They have forwarded a

letter to the Board with over 160 signature who are in support of an

ordinance to close gas stations during overnight hours. They appreciate the

support from the Board and hope to see the Board take action on this effort

soon.

Trustee Tagia commented the only thing to do that will clearly reduce violent

crime and gun violence in Oak Park would be to reduce the operations,

and opportunity for violent encounters, in the first place. The data clearly

shows that our issues occur between midnight and 5AM hours at gas

stations and we need to be proactive, not reactive. We can be proactive by

regulating the hours of businesses that hosts these activities; reducing the

opportunities are really where it is at.

Trustee Robinson commented the Board has been judicious in their ability

and power to either revise or enact an Ordinance, and for those instances

that have the level of importance and urgency the Board needs to flex that

highest power. The Board has an obligation to act here and not be too

hesitant to do so, and to make sure they are creating a solution that is

specifically tailored to the problem and not overreaching. The public

commenters remarked on a noticeable difference in their enjoyment of their

property and ability to sleep since the BP gas station voluntarily closed,

and this confirms the direction that the residents would like to go in.

Trustee Parakkat sees a direct linkage between the hours of operation at

the gas stations, criminal activity and community safety. The nuisance

ordinance creates a framework for future responses, and now the option is

to see if curtailing operating hours will give a different outcome. He

expressed his support of moving in the direction of curtailing the hours of

operation.

Trustee Buchanan expressed their support on restricting the hours of all

gas stations in Oak Park from midnight to 5:00 AM and would like to see

an Ordinance in front of the Board for consideration as soon as possible.

Trustee Enyia commented this is one step in trying to figure out how do we,

as a village, deal with public safety and work with small businesses and

minimize what we can, and this is a first step we can take to bring peace to

our village. He expressed his support of a midnight to 5:00 AM closure of

operating hours.

President Scaman expressed interest in exploring a moratorium of

operating hours and having different hours for internal/ residential

neighborhood gas stations versus gas stations that are on the bordering

streets of the village. She then directed staff to consider the options of

restricting hours of operation from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM closure for

internal/ residential gas stations, and Midnight to 5:00 AM closure for gas

stations located on the bordering streets of the village.

Village Attorney Stephanides responded he will prepare something for the

September 19, 2022 Board meeting.

RES 22-216

AF.

A Resolution Approving an Independent Contractor Agreement with

Comprehensive Construction Solutions, LLC to Replace the Boiler System at

the North Fire Station in an Amount Not to Exceed $40,293.75 and

Authorizing its Execution

The following persons spoke their Public Comment aloud:

Tom Bassett-Dilley: Tom Bassett-Dilley spoke their public comment

expressing their gratitude for the Board passing the Climate Action Plan,

and recognizes there will be some growing pains with the plan's

implementation. The boiler replacement is a nuanced and complex issue.

They asked the Board and staff to make infrastructure decisions like this

with a view towards the Climate Action Plan, and hopes the Board and the

village can use this as an opportunity to create a case study in how to meet

our greenhouse gas reduction.

Clerk Waters read the following public comment aloud:

Mac Robinet: Mac Robinet submitted their public comment outlining three

options for the boiler replacement: a gas boiler, an electric boiler, and

some form of heat pump. He advised the Board that heat pumps are the

only acceptable options based on their efficiency. He strongly

recommended staff to define the heating and cooling needs of the fire

station, and then request proposals from companies that specialize in

different heat pumps.

Trustee Buchanan commented as we all have to transition to electric, this is

a perfect time for the village to use this smaller building and figure this out

and learn a lot and move forward. They commented what is missing is

adequate assessment reports of the actual energy needs for the building.

They expressed concerns over the proposed size of the replacement

boiler, and reminded the group that a geothermal unit would payback in

less than 10 years and there are now 30% rebates on geothermal units.

The Board needs to get over their fear of the complexity of geothermal and

just start doing it.

Nirav Patel, consultant for ClarkDietz, responded they were asked to

design a boiler to replace the existing one within a short period of time.

Based on conversations, the decision to replace it with a larger unit would

accommodate future upgrading needs. The consultant did not do a full

energy assessment when they looked at geothermal or other options.

Director Sproule added if the desire of the Board is to not move forward

with a conventional boiler then the consultant did give some direction on an

electric option and a geothermal option.

Trustee Robinson asked to hear from Marcella Bondie Keenan,

Sustainability Coordinator, regarding her previous comments on how it

might be cost-prohibitive for some older structures, like the fire station, to

convert to cleaner energy options.

Marcella Bondie Keenan responded that conversation was more in

regards to residences, not village facilities.

Trustee Parakkat requested clarification if any potential rebates or

payback was included in the estimated cost for a geothermal option.

Director Sproule responded they are not. Staff will need to budget for the

full amount of the project as the specifics on any rebates is still unknown at

this point.

Trustee Parakkat commented there are aspects missing from the analysis

which makes it difficult to compare options or make a decision.

Marcella Bondie Keenan responded until we can consider holistically the

scope of work at the fire station we will not have a true detailed

understanding of the cost. This conversation is an opportunity to consider

all the facilities and how to move forward: will it always be a least-cost

replacement or do we want to take a longer term view of managing the

facilities. We cannot confirm numbers, but we can give a relative cost

differential if we are looking at the long term view as opposed to least-cost.

Trustee Parakkat requested clarification on the urgency in replacing the

boiler at this point.

Nirav Patel responded when he first looked at the boiler at the end of 2021

it was projecting fire outside of the unit due to a corroded part, and they

have been putting band aids on the problem since and it needs to be

addressed.

Fire Chief Ron Kobyleski added they are estimating another 10 years of

use of the fire station.

Navir Patel requested clarification what the village intends to do with the

building after 10 years - building a new station on the property or relocate

it? As the geothermal field would be good for 40 years, so if the village

decides to sell the land then they may not see the payback that they are

forecasting.

Village Manager Jackson requested clarification if there has been any

considerations around planning for a new station.

Chief Kobyleski responded they had previously looked at a new location

but the cost of the land was prohibitive.

Village Engineer McKenna cautioned if they were looking to rebuild on the

same site the footprint would need to stay roughly the same on the

geothermal field as to not impact the buildings. Right now one of the

constraints is the depth of the bay for fire trucks. So keeping a building for

fire in that same footprint is unlikely.

President Scaman stated there is consensus from the Board to go forward

with a geothermal option.

It was moved by Village Trustee Buchanan, seconded by Village Trustee Taglia,

to deny the Resolution. The motion failed The roll call on the vote was as

follows:

6 -

NAYS:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT:

XIII. Regular Agenda for Items Pursuant to Village Code Chapter 3 Alcoholic Liquor

Dealers or Related

Trustee Parakkat recused himself from the following votes due to his

involvement with Take Out 25.

ORD 22-59

AI.

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 3 (“Alcoholic Liquor Dealers”), Article 8

(“List of Licenses for Each License Class”), Section 3-8-1 (“Number of

Licenses Permitted to be Issued Per License Class”) and Section 3-8-2

(“Licenses by Name and Address Per License”) of the Oak Park Village Code

for the Issuance of a Restaurant Class B-4 Liquor License to Crepas Culichi

Brunch, Inc., DBA Crepas Culichi

Village Attorney Stephanides introduced the Item.

There was no further discussion on the Item.

It was moved by Village Trustee Robinson, seconded by Village Trustee Taglia,

to adopt the Ordinance. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was

as follows:

5 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

ABSENT:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

1 - Village Trustee Parakkat

ABSTAINED:

ORD 22-60

AJ.

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 3 (“Alcoholic Liquor Dealers”), Article 4

(“Term and Classification”), Section 3-4-2 (“Classification and Number of

Liquor Licenses and Fees”) of the Oak Park Village Code Regarding the Class

C-7 Specialty Gourmet Foods Shop Liquor License Classification

Village Attorney Stephanides introduced the Item.

There was no further discussion on the Item.

It was moved by Village Trustee Robinson, seconded by Village Trustee

Buchanan, to adopt the Ordinance. The motion was approved. The roll call on

the vote was as follows:

5 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

ABSENT:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

1 - Village Trustee Parakkat

ABSTAINED:

ORD 22-61

AK.

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 3 (“Alcoholic Liquor Dealers”), Article 1

(“General Provisions”), Section 3-1-1 (“Definitions”) and Article 4 (“Term

and Classification”), Section 3-4-2 (“Classification and Number of Liquor

Licenses and Fees”) of the Oak Park Village Code Regarding the Class D-11

Live Theater Performance Venue Liquor License Classification

Village Attorney Stephanides introduced the Item.

There was no further discussion on the Item.

It was moved by Village Trustee Buchanan, seconded by Village Trustee

Robinson, to adopt the Ordinance. The motion was approved. The roll call on

the vote was as follows:

5 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

ABSENT:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

1 - Village Trustee Parakkat

ABSTAINED:

ORD 22-62

AL.

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 3 (“Alcoholic Liquor Dealers”), Article 1

(“General Provisions”), Section 3-1-1 (“Definitions”) and Article 4 (“Term

and Classification”), Section 3-4-2 (“Classification and Number of Liquor

Licenses and Fees”) of the Oak Park Village Code Regarding the Class D-15

Craft Brewery Liquor License Classification

Village Attorney Stephanides introduced the Item.

There was no further discussion on the Item.

It was moved by Village Trustee Buchanan, seconded by Village Trustee

Robinson, to adopt the Ordinance. The motion was approved. The roll call on

the vote was as follows:

5 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

ABSENT:

1 - Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

1 - Village Trustee Parakkat

ABSTAINED:

XIV. Call to Board and Clerk

Clerk Waters reminded the community that early voting will be starting

Monday, October 24th at 9:00 AM through Monday, November 7th. She

also expressed her thanks to former Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla for

all of her time and effort that she gave to the community.

Trustee Buchanan had no comment.

Trustee Robinson had no comment.

Trustee Taglia requested an update on the traffic study around the Madison

Street area.

Trustee Enyia expressed his appreciation to all the volunteer

commissioners and their work for the community. He also reminded the

community that Covid is still out there and to make sure you are protecting

yourselves and loved ones. He gave a special thanks to the Plan

Commission and appreciates all their work.

President Scaman also thanked all the commissioners and expressed her

thanks to Clerk Waters and the Citizen Involvement Commission for hosting

a wonderful Volunteer Appreciation Event. She also thank former Village

Trustee Walker-Peddakotla for her service.

XV. Adjourn

It was moved by Village Trustee Buchanan, seconded by Village Trustee

Robinson, to Adjourn. The motion was approved. The meeting adjourned at

11:28 P.M., Monday, September 6, 2022.

Respectfully Submitted,

Deputy Clerk DeViller

5 -

AYES:

Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village

Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Taglia

NAYS:

2 - Village Trustee Parakkat, and Village Trustee Walker-Peddakotla

ABSENT: