Town of Normal Town Council met Aug. 2.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
1. CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Koos called the Regular Meeting of the Normal Town Council to Order at 7:01 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL:
The Clerk called the roll with the following persons
PRESENT: Mayor Chris Koos and Councilmembers Kathleen Lorenz, Stan Nord, Karyn Smith, Chemberly Cummings, Scott Preston, and Kevin McCarthy, also present were City Manager Pamela Reece, Assistant City Manager
Eric Hanson, Corporation Counsel Brian Day, and Chief Deputy Clerk
Theresa Denham.
ABSENT: City Clerk Angie Huonker.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Koos led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
4. PUBLIC COMMENT:
There was no Public Comment.
5. OMNIBUS VOTE AGENDA:
Mayor Koos read aloud the items to be considered by the Omnibus Vote Agenda.
A. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 19, 2021. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 19, 2021:
B. REPORT TO RECEIVE AND FILE TOWN OF NORMAL EXPENDITURES FOR PAYMENT AS OF JULY 28, 2021:
C. RESOLUTION TO WAIVE THE FORMAL BID PROCESS AND ACCEPT A QUOTE FROM EFI-SOLUTIONS FOR THE PURCHASE OF A NEW BOOSTER STATION:
D. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING FRAME RAIL REPLACEMENT AND CORROSION REPAIRS TO A 2011 PIERCE FIRE ENGINE: Resolution No. 5898:
E. RESOLUTION WAIVING THE FORMAL BIDDING PROCESS AND AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF A FORD/HORTON TYPE 1 AMBULANCE FROM FOSTER COACH SALES OF STERLING, ILLINOIS IN THE AMOUNT OF $229,339:
F. AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF NORMAL TO ENTER INTO A STATE & MUNICIPAL LEASE/PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH CLAYTON HOLDINGS, LLC AS LESSOR NOT TO EXCEED $1,133,140 AND APPROVAL OF THE APPLICABLE BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS:
G. RESOLUTION WAIVING THE FORMAL BIDDING PROCESS AND AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF A SPARTAN/SMEAL LADDER FIRE APPARATUS FROM FIRE APPARATUS SUPPLY TEAM OF LINCOLN, ILLINOIS AT A COST OF $1,133,140:
H. MOTION TO REJECT BIDS FOR THE CAMELBACK BRIDGE REPAIR AND PAINTING PROJECT:
I. RESOLUTION TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSAL FOR THE COMPLETION OF AN UPTOWN PARKING STUDY FROM DESMAN DESIGN MANAGEMENT, CHICAGO, IL:
J. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE RENEWAL OF THE EMPLOYEE GROUP HEALTH, DENTAL, LIFE/AD&D INSURANCE PROGRAM:
MOTION:
Councilmember McCarthy moved, seconded by Councilmember Cummings, the Council Approval of the Omnibus Vote Agenda.
AYES: Lorenz, Nord, Smith, Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
Items A, B and D were approved by the Omnibus Vote.
Items C, E, F, G, H, I and J were removed from the Omnibus Vote.
6. ITEMS REMOVED FROM OMNIBUS VOTE AGENDA:
RESOLUTION TO WAIVE THE FORMAL BID PROCESS AND ACCEPT A QUOTE FROM EFI-SOLUTIONS FOR THE PURCHASE OF A NEW BOOSTER STATION: Resolution No. 5899:
MOTION:
Councilmember Nord moved, seconded by Councilmember Smith, the Council Approval of a Resolution to Waive the Formal Bid Process and Accept a Quote from EFI-Solutions for the Purchase of a New Booster Station.
AYES: Nord, Smith, Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Lorenz, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
Councilmember Stan Nord expressed his concern regarding the total cost of installation for this project. City Manager Pamela Reece and Water Director John Burkhart responded.
Water Director John Burkhart stated that the cost of materials is subject to increase, but not labor.
Councilmember Stan Nord asked for an updated estimate of cost.
Councilmember Kevin McCarthy stressed the urgency to accept the bid and lock in pricing. Mr. McCarthy noted that the structure is in poor shape and there is an urgent need for repair.
Mayor Koos reiterated the importance of locking in a price when a product becomes available.
Councilmember Karyn Smith clarified that this will be authorizing the purchase of a prefabricated structure that will go above ground. Water Director John Burkhart responded. Ms. Smith also confirmed that this Booster System is from a vendor we have purchased from in the past. Ms. Smith noted that when the time comes, the remainder of the project will be bid out.
Councilmember Kathleen Lorenz asked for clarification on the cost break down. Water Director John Burkhart responded.
RESOLUTION WAIVING THE FORMAL BIDDING PROCESS AND AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF A FORD/HORTON TYPE 1 AMBULANCE FROM FOSTER COACH SALES OF STERLING, ILLINOIS IN THE AMOUNT OF $229,339: Resolution No. 5900:
MOTION:
Councilmember Nord moved, seconded by Councilmember Smith, the Council Approval of a Resolution Waiving the Formal Bidding Process and Authorizing the Purchase of a Ford/Horton Type 1 Ambulance from Foster Coach Sales of Sterling, Illinois in the amount of $229,339.
AYES: Smith, Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Lorenz, Nord, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
Councilmember Stan Nord asked for an explanation regarding the factory tour. City Manager Pamela Reece and Fire Chief Michael Humer responded.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF NORMAL TO ENTER INTO A STATE & MUNICIPAL LEASE/PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH CLAYTON HOLDINGS, LLC AS LESSOR NOT TO EXCEED $1,133,140 AND APPROVAL OF THE APPLICABLE BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS: Ordinance No. 5870:
MOTION:
Councilmember Smith moved, seconded by Councilmember Lorenz, the Council Approval of an Ordinance Authorizing the Town of Normal to enter into a State & Municipal Lease/Purchase Agreement with Clayton Holdings, LLC as Lessor Not to Exceed $1,133,140 and Approval of the Applicable Budget Adjustments.
AYES: Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Lorenz, Smith, Koos.
NAYS: Nord.
Motion declared carried.
Councilmember Karyn Smith asked for clarification on the process in obtaining quotes and details regarding the lease. Director of Finance, Andrew Huhn responded. Ms. Smith also asked how financing this item would be advantageous to the Town. Mr. Huhn explained that with the lease having a fixed rate and interest rates being favorable, in the long run it would be more beneficial to finance.
Councilmember Scott Preston asked what the expected lifespan would be for the Apparatus. Director of Finance, Andrew Huhn responded.
Councilmember Stan Nord expressed skepticism on whether the interest earnings will exceed the amount the Town will being paying. Mr. Nord also accused the Town of being fiscally dishonest.
City Manager Pamela Reece commended the Finance department for their achievements. Ms. Reece explained this is a Council decision and if this item is rejected, the next Agenda item offers a different solution.
Mayor Koos explained that this is a Council decision and not a staff decision.
Councilmember Kevin McCarthy expressed his support in pursuing the low interest rates. Director of Finance, Andrew Huhn explained the need to reevaluate financial plans and find what brings the best value and efficiency to the taxpayer. Mr. McCarthy also noted the need to keep cash in the Vehicle and Equipment fund for future Ambulance purchases.
Councilmember Chemberly Cummings stated that this is not the first time the Town has considered leasing. Ms. Cummings asked for clarification on the benefits of leasing. Director of Finance, Andrew Huhn responded.
Councilmember Karyn Smith expressed her support for the lease.
Councilmember Stan Nord asked if we could expect the same retained value in 10 years. Director of Finance, Andrew Huhn responded. Mr. Nord asked for clarification on what the Vehicle and Equipment fund will be used for. Mayor Koos responded. Mr. Nord made comments regarding another Agenda item. Councilmember McCarthy and Mayor Koos called for Point of Order. Mayor Koos struck the gavel to regain order of the meeting.
RESOLUTION WAIVING THE FORMAL BIDDING PROCESS AND AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF A SPARTAN/SMEAL LADDER FIRE APPARATUS FROM FIRE APPARATUS SUPPLY TEAM OF LINCOLN, ILLINOIS AT A COST OF $1,133,140: Resolution No. 5901:
MOTION:
Councilmember Smith moved, seconded by Councilmember Cummings, the Council Approval of a Resolution Waiving the Formal Bidding Process and Authorizing the Purchase of a Spartan/Smeal Ladder Fire Apparatus from Fire Apparatus Supply Team of Lincoln, Illinois at a cost of $1,133,140.
AYES: Preston, McCarthy, Lorenz, Nord, Smith, Cummings, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
MOTION TO REJECT BIDS FOR THE CAMELBACK BRIDGE REPAIR AND PAINTING PROJECT:
MOTION:
Councilmember Nord moved, seconded by Councilmember Smith, the Council Approve the Motion to reject Bids for the Camelback Bridge Repair and Painting Project.
AYES: McCarthy, Lorenz, Nord, Smith, Cummings, Preston, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried
Councilmember Stan Nord requested clarification on whether the cost increase was from materials or labor. Town Engineer, Ryan Otto responded.
Councilmember Karyn Smith asked whether staff will be allowed to contact the companies that submitted the bids. Town Engineer, Ryan Otto responded.
RESOLUTION TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSAL FOR THE COMPLETION OF AN UPTOWN PARKING STUDY FROM DESMAN DESIGN MANAGEMENT, CHICAGO, IL: Resolution No. 5902:
MOTION:
Councilmember Smith moved, seconded by Councilmember McCarthy, the Council Approval of a Resolution to Accept the Proposal for the Completion of an Uptown Parking Study from Desman Design Management, Chicago, IL.
AYES: Lorenz, Smith, Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Koos.
NAYS: Nord.
Motion declared carried.
Councilmember Karyn Smith asked for clarification on when the Parking Study was originally authorized. City Manager Pamela Reece responded. Ms. Smith also asked for an explanation on what the citizen engagement component entails.
Councilmember Kathleen Lorenz requested clarification on who the steering committee will be composed of. Assistant City Manager Eric Hanson responded. Ms. Lorenz also asked whether online options will be utilized.
Councilmember Stan Nord expressed his concerns about starting the Parking Study at this time.
Councilmember McCarthy noted that studies like this are used to help plan for future and expressed his support.
Assistant City Manager Eric Hanson noted that the largest asset or liability the Town has are the Parking decks and reminded this has been a listed priority for many years.
Councilmember Chemberly Cummings recalled that this has been a priority for the Town.
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE RENEWAL OF THE EMPLOYEE GROUP HEALTH, DENTAL, LIFE/AD&D INSURANCE PROGRAM: Resolution No. 5903:
MOTION:
Councilmember Lorenz moved, Seconded by Councilmember McCarthy, the Council Approval of a Resolution Authorizing the Renewal of The Employee Group Health, Dental, Life/AD&D Insurance Program.
AYES: Nord, Smith, Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Koos.
NAYS: Lorenz.
Motion declared carried.
Councilmember Kathleen Lorenz expressed her concerns over the increase in premiums and recommended we look at alternatives. City Manager Pamela Reece responded.
Mike Wojcik, Senior Vice President of the Horton Group explained that this increase is a result from the difficulty to predict the need for healthcare due to the pandemic.
City Manager Pamela Reece agreed that the increase is more than the Town has budgeted.
Councilmember Stan Nord requested information regarding who is responsible to pay for the employee insurance, the Town, or the individual employee. City Manager Pamela Reece responded. Mr. Nord asked for clarification on whether the Horton Group will receive commission for these healthcare packages. Mr. Wojcik responded.
Councilmember Scott Preston asked for an explanation for the 16-month contract. City Manager Pamela Reece explained that it made more sense to get everything on a calendar
year. Mr. Preston asked whether the Town will be able to save if the large claims continue to increase. Mr. Wojcik responded.
Councilmember Karyn Smith requested to know the participation rate among employees enrolled. Director of Human Resources Jenny Keigher responded.
Councilmember Kevin McCarthy posed questions regarding the quality of coverage.
GENERAL ORDERS:
7. ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FY2020-21 OPERATING AND CAPITAL INVESTMENT BUDGET: Ordinance No. 5871:
MOTION:
Councilmember McCarthy moved, seconded by Councilmember Preston, the Council Approval of an Ordinance Amending the FY2020-21 Operating and Capital Investment Budget.
AYES: Smith, Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Lorenz, Nord, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
Director of Finance, Andrew Huhn gave a summary of the proposed amendment.
Councilmember Stan Nord asked for clarification on re-budgeting funds that aren’t spent during its budgeted fiscal year. Director of Finance Andrew Huhn responded. City Manager Pamela Reece noted that funds may be carried over to the next fiscal year.
Councilmember Kevin McCarthy clarified the difference between money budgeted and money spent. Mr. McCarthy expressed his appreciation of the work the finance department put in to create the financial report. Mr. McCarthy also noted that the outcome was better than expected.
Mr. Huhn summarized the annual budget adjustments, inner fund transfers and explained the cuts that were made to certain funds due to the forecast. Mr. Huhn also noted that the Town budget ended with a surplus.
Councilmember Stan Nord asked for clarification on whether the Vehicle and Equipment fund reserves are used when the General Fund reserves are calculated. Director of Finance, Andrew Huhn and City Manager Pamela Reece responded.
8. ORDINANCE VACATING THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY (ELECTRIC AVENUE): Ordinance No. 5872:
MOTION:
Councilmember McCarthy moved, seconded by Councilmember Cummings, the Council Approval of an Ordinance vacating the Public Right-of-Way (Electric Avenue).
AYES: Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Lorenz, Nord, Smith, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
Mayor Koos noted a mistake in the packet. City Manager Pamela Reece explained that the vacation plat report in the packet is correct.
Councilmember Stan Nord posed questions regarding the accuracy of the GIS map and whether the other property owners along Electric Avenue have been contacted. City Manager Pamela Reece and Town Engineer Ryan Otto responded.
Corporation Counsel Brian Day explained the terms of a Right-of-Way. Councilmember Stan Nord asked if a lease would be possible. Corporation Counsel Brian Day responded.
Councilmember Scott Preston asked for clarification on whether the properties to the east will be affected by this. Corporation Counsel Brian Day responded. Mr. Preston expressed his support for Rivian and their continued growth.
Councilmember Kathleen Lorenz echoed Mr. Preston’s comments and noted her support of Rivian.
Councilmember Kevin McCarthy emphasized the number of jobs that Rivian has created for the community.
Councilmember Karyn Smith requested clarification on who Electric Avenue is serving at this time. City Manager Pamela Reece responded.
Mayor Koos called for a brief seven-minute recess at 9:00 p.m. to allow for a short break.
9. RESOLUTION REAPPROVING THE KELLEY GLEN PUD PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN (HENRY AND RAAB): Resolution No. 5904:
MOTION:
Councilmember Preston moved, seconded by Councilmember McCarthy, the Council Approval of a Resolution Reapproving the Kelley Glen PUD Preliminary Development Plan (Henry and Raab).
AYES: Preston, McCarthy, Lorenz, Nord, Smith, Cummings, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
Councilmember Stan Nord asked for confirmation on whether they are being charged for tap on fees. City Manager Pamela Reece responded.
Councilmember Karyn Smith requested clarification on why there are two actions regarding the same subdivision, and the number of units being developed. City Manager Pamela Reece responded.
10. RESOLUTION CONDITIONALLY APPROVING THE KELLEY GLEN PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT 3RD ADDITION FINAL PLAT (HENRY AND RAAB): Resolution No. 5905:
MOTION:
Councilmember McCarthy moved, seconded by Councilmember Cummings, the Council Approval of a Resolution Conditionally Approving the Kelley Glen Planned Unit Development 3rd Addition Final Plat (Henry and Raab).
AYES: McCarthy, Lorenz, Nord, Smith, Cummings, Preston, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
NEW BUSINESS
11. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BLOOMINGTON NORMAL ENTERPRISE ZONE DESIGNATING ORDINANCE AND AUTHORIZING THE APPROVAL OF AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT REGARDING THE ZONE: Ordinance No. 5873:
MOTION:
Councilmember McCarthy moved, seconded by Councilmember Cummings, the Council Approval of An Ordinance Amending the Bloomington Normal Enterprise Zone Designating Ordinance and Authorizing the Approval of Intergovernmental Agreement Regarding the Zone.
AYES: Lorenz, Nord, Smith, Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Koos. NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
City Manager Pamela Reece introduced Patrick Hoban, CEO of the Bloomington Normal Economic Development Council, who gave a summary of the Enterprise Zone Program and its incentives.
Councilmember Karyn Smith posed questions regarding how this program compares to other neighboring cities. Mr. Hoban responded
Councilmember Scott Preston asked for clarification on whether this program is limited to the Enterprise Zone. Mr. Hoban responded.
Councilmember Stan Nord confirmed this item is only approving the Town’s property tax portion. Mr. Nord also asked for clarification on whether this program is only for new jobs. Mr. Hoban responded.
Councilmember Kathleen Lorenz asked if it is possible to include other businesses in this program. Mr. Hoban responded.
Councilmember Scott Preston and Councilmember Kevin McCarthy expressed their support for the program.
Councilmember Chemberly Cummings requested clarification on the expected timeframe that the program will be available. Mr. Hoban responded.
Councilmember Stan Nord asked for clarification on the qualification to the program. Mr. Hoban and City Manager Pamela Reece responded.
CONCERNS:
Councilmember Chemberly Cummings noted the Medici Craft Beer and Jazz festival will be held Saturday, August 14th. Ms. Cummings made comments regarding the upcoming Planning Commission meeting for One Normal Plaza.
Councilmember Stan Nord voiced his concern over the water drainage systems and fire hydrant placement along College Avenue.
Councilmember Karyn Smith noted there will be a video available that shows discussion about a previously approved water project. Ms. Smith also made comments regarding the school age limits for children with disabilities.
City Manager Pamela Reece noted that the One Normal Plaza Zoning Text Amendment will go before the Planning Commission on Thursday, August 5th. Ms. Reece also made comments about yearly storm water projects and Phase II bids availability at the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Koos called for a Motion to Adjourn the Regular Meeting of the Normal Town Council.
MOTION:
Councilmember Preston moved, seconded by Councilmember McCarthy, the Council Accept a Motion to Adjourn the Regular Meeting of the Normal Town Council.
AYES: Nord, Smith, Cummings, Preston, McCarthy, Lorenz, Koos.
NAYS: None.
Motion declared carried.
Mayor Koos adjourned the Regular Meeting of the Normal Town Council at 9:47 p.m.
https://www.normal.org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/4056
