McHenry Times

Woodstock City Council met Jan. 21.

Here is the minutes provided by the council:

A regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, January 21, 2020 by Mayor Brian Sager in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. Mayor Sager welcomed those present and explained the consent calendar process and invited public participation. He noted, as is the City’s policy, this evening’s meeting is being live streamed with a recording archived should members of the public wish to view it in the future.

City Clerk Smiley confirmed the agenda before the Council was a true and correct copy of the published agenda.

A roll call was taken.

COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, Wendy Piersall, Jim Prindiville, Gordon Tebo, Michael Turner, and Mayor Brian Sager.

COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None

STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, Assistant City Manager/Finance Director Paul Christensen, City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, Public Works Director Jeff Van Landuyt, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, City Engineer Chris Tiedt, City Planner Darrell Moore, and Business Development Coordinator George Hahn.

OTHERS PRESENT: City Clerk Cindy Smiley

III. FLOOR DISCUSSION

A. Proclamation – Groundhog Days

Mayor Sager stated once again it is time for Groundhog Days in Woodstock, noting it will begin on January 30th culminating on February 2nd. He encouraged everyone to attend and participate.

Without objection, the City Council approved and accepted A Proclamation Declaring February 2nd, 2020 Groundhog Day in the City of Woodstock. Mayor Sager asked members of the Groundhog Days Committee to come forward. He read the proclamation and presented it to the Committee, noting this is a wonderful event that has grown through the work of the Committee.

On behalf of the Committee, Rick Bellairs thanked the Mayor and City Council and the City for their support and efforts to make Groundhog Days a success. He invited all to attend the celebrations many events.

B. Presentation: Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Updates

City Planner Darrell Moore made a presentation to update the City Council on the progress with the Old Courthouse Project. He provided a history of the building, noting it has been under City ownership since 2011, prior to which it had fallen into disrepair. He talked about the initial focus and the City’s effort to shore up the building, including the various projects that were undertaken.

He stated ultimately the City resolved to permanently own the building with a Master Planning Study completed in 2018 to see how the buildings could be renovated and to analyze possible uses. He noted the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Advisory Commission made recommendations for a new direction and recommended uses. He stated proposals have been received for the buildings, which will be reviewed by the City Council at a future meeting.

Mr. Moore provided information on historic tax credits, how the City could use these for financing improvements, and provided a timeline going forward for necessary steps in 2020 and beyond.

Councilwoman Piersall thanked Mr. Moore and Mr. Christensen for their work to bring this project to this point.

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo concerning historic tax credits, Mr. Stelford stated while there is no guarantee the City will receive the historic tax credits, the Administration has made every effort, including the proposed retention of a tax-credit accountant to help ensure a successful submission. City Attorney Schlossberg stated it is part of the expert’s job to help ensure the City meets the eligibility for the tax credits. Councilman Turner stated the tax credits are a substantial incentive to a developer, opining the City should take advantage of them.

Mr. Moore explained the items that are being considered this evening for the project, noting the work of the architect will be invaluable.

C. Public Comment

There were no comments forthcoming from the Public.

F. Council Comments

Mayor Sager introduced a new City staff member, City Engineer Chris Tiedt, welcoming him and thanking him for choosing Woodstock.

IV. CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by M. Turner, second by J. Prindiville, to approve the Consent Agenda.

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, the following items were removed from the Consent Agenda by the Council or a member of the Public:

Item D-3 – Agreement – Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Architect by Councilman J. Prindiville.

Item D-4 – Professional Services – Tax Credit Financial Advisor by Councilman J. Prindiville. Item D-12 – Ordinances – Purchase of the Die Cast/Woodstock Station Site by Councilman J. Prindiville

Item D-13 – Ordinances – Preliminary Plat/Special Use – 300 N. Eastwood Drive by Councilwoman W. Piersall

Item D-2 – Ordinance – Variance Bull Valley Golf Club by a member of the Public with the support of Councilman Turner

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, the following questions or comments were forthcoming from the City Council or the Public concerning items remaining on the Consent Agenda:

Item D-1 – Liquor License Waiver of Moratorium – Patty’s Place

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mayor Sager confirmed video gaming licenses do not transfer, so this business will not automatically receive the license held by the business formerly at this location. Mayor Sager explained the process for both liquor and video gaming licensing, noting the City is currently at its maximum for video gaming licenses, with two businesses on a waiting list. He noted that any business wishing to obtain a liquor license or a video gaming license must apply and go through the process, at which time it would be up to the City Council to consider the applications. He stated the action this evening is only to consider waiver of the liquor license moratorium so this business can apply.

Mayor Sager affirmed the Consent Agenda to include Items A through D-1 and D-5 through D- 11 as follows:

A. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS

December 17, 2019 City Council Meeting

B. WARRANTS: #3887 #3888 #3889

C. MINUTES AND REPORTS:

Joint Cultural & Social Awareness Commission and

Environmental Commission Minutes August 15, 2019

Cultural and Social Awareness Commission Minutes October 7, 2019

Human Resources Monthly Report August 2019

Human Resources Monthly Report September 2019

Human Resources Monthly Report October 2019

Human Resources Monthly Report November 2019

Human Resources Monthly Report December 2019

Woodstock Police Department Monthly Report November 2019

Woodstock Public Works Department Monthly Report November 2019

D. MANAGER’S REPORT NO. 148

1. Liquor License Waiver of Moratorium – Patty’s Place – Authorization to waive the moratorium on the acceptance of an application for a Class A-2 (Restaurant) liquor license for Patty’s Place in Woodstock with the understanding this is not a guarantee of license approval and that it is a one-time waiver for the identified location only.

5. Purchase – Grinder for Waste Water Treatment Plant – Approval to purchase a reconditioned grinder meeting the same specifications as a new CDD4020-XDS2.0 model as manufactured by JWC Environmental, Los Angeles, CA for an amount not- to-exceed $30,264.78.

6. Purchase – Roof for Aquatic Center Play Feature – Approval to purchase a W1107042 PVC Single Dump Roof from Spear Corporation, Roachdale, IN at a delivered cost of $11,750.

7. Unitrends – Network Backup Hardware/Software Contract – Approval to enter into a three-year support and maintenance agreement with Unitrends for $33,128.

8. Ordinance – Dial-a-Ride Program – Approval of Ordinance 20-O-01, identified as Document 2, An Ordinance Authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to Sign an Intergovernmental Agreement That Provides for Continued Consolidation of the City’s Dial-a-Ride Program with the County’s System.

9. Ordinance – Amending City Code for Sale of City-Owned Property – Approval of Ordinance 20-O-02, identified as Document 3, An Ordinance Amending Title I of the City Code of Woodstock, Illinois Regarding the Sale of City-Owned Real Estate.

10. Professional Services – Wold Architects – Train Station Improvements –

Approval of a contract for an amount not-to-exceed $28,000 with Wold Architects & Engineers, Palatine, IL for Architectural Fees and miscellaneous reimbursable costs for design, construction documents, bidding, and construction administration services associated with the train station project.

11. Façade Program Reimbursement – Chop Suey Hut – Approval to allocate 50% of the exterior improvement costs (up to $1,820.50) from the TIF#2 Fund, providing for sign and awning improvements at 218 North Throop Street utilizing the Façade Improvement Program.

A roll call vote was taken on items A through D-1 and D-5 through D-11.

Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.

Item D-2 – Ordinance – Variance Bull Valley Golf Club

Councilman Turner deferred to the member of the Public who requested this item to be removed.

Mr. Bruce Tinkoff, attorney representing various Bull Valley homeowners, stated the Plan Commission has reviewed this matter and decided that the criteria for a variance to the existing Special Use has not been met. He opined this is a method to avoid rezoning, as the proposed use is a hotel/motel use, which will negatively impact the neighborhood. He stated the request is not a permitted use and should not be approved.

Mr. Tinkoff stated the home is not owned by Bull Valley Golf Club (BVGC), but rather by a separate LLC, which is allowing BVGC to rent out the home for the benefit of BVGC. He stated none of the criteria outlined in the Staff report have been met.

Mr. Tinkoff opined this action would cause lower property values, enforcement problems, and additional traffic, which the homeowners never anticipated when they bought their homes, noting they relied on the existing uses. He stated the home in question is a single-family dwelling as defined by zoning and the declarations, opining the request is to use it as a hotel necessitating a change in zoning.

Mr. Craig Krandel, attorney for the petitioner, stated the Council has previously been provided with the actions taken by his client to address the homeowners’ concerns as previously brought forth at the Plan Commission meetings. He stated it is the intent of his client to be a good corporate community member. He noted there currently is no ordinance in the City of Woodstock that prohibits short-term rentals.

Again stating his client took steps to address the homeowners’ issues, Mr. Krandel stated his understanding that after putting these new policies and procedures in place, throughout 2019 there have been no complaints from the neighbors. He provided additional information as to the steps taken, opining they have done a good job addressing concerns.

Mr. Krandel disagreed with Mr. Tinkoff’s assertion this is a hotel/motel use. He stated the home has been taken off AirBnB and VRBO, except for the holiday season, noting it is only available for rent through BVGC. He stated it is rented mostly as part of weddings, which take place at BVGC.

Mr. Krandel talked about what BVGC brings to Woodstock, the financial benefits from securing special events to BVGC and how the short-term rental home helps to support these efforts. He talked about the economic difficulties faced by BVGC and the golf industry in general; noting revenue was down $100,000 compared to the budget for the spring of 2019.

Mayor Sager stated the Council is responsible to balance the differing needs and wants of the community, including the residents who have invested in their homes and a quality of life, which must be respected, versus the needs of the financial investment for the business, which must also be supported. Noting this can be a challenge, he stated the City has taken the approach to try to get parties together and identify their needs and interests. He talked about the meetings that were held, including how to address the concerns of the residents, noting as a result a trial period was put in place. He stated there has been no evidence of problems during this trial period. Mayor Sager noted, in addition, the City now has a noise ordinance should that become an issue.

Mayor Sager stated he is not convinced a lot of traffic is generated by this use. He noted any homeowner who wishes to go on vacation for a long period of time has the right to rent out their home. He stated he does not agree with the hotel/motel characterization.

Councilman Turner agreed there should be a balance. He stated he does not take the homeowners’ concerns lightly and is happy to see there has been a change. He stated he believes the struggles of BVGC are real, also noting the difficulties faced by the golf industry, opining BVGC took this action to set itself apart from others in the industry. Councilman Turner talked about how the bankruptcy of BVGC would affect property values in the area, stating the entire area would suffer.

Councilman Turner stated he is supportive of the request with specific monitoring and procedures. He noted it is within the City’s powers to rescind a Special Use if there are problems, which he would be willing to consider in the future, if needed.

In response to questions from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Krandel estimated the house was rented out 40 nights last season, generally Friday and Saturday nights, predominately in connection with weddings. He stated the owner is also trying to promote a “Stay and Play” package. He stated it is not the loss of revenue from house rental that could affect BVGC financially, but the loss of weddings that could result from losing the opportunity to have the associated house rental. Councilman Tebo opined this situation is similar to the concerns expressed by the neighbors when Council was considering the Cherry Tree B&B. He stated he does not believe there have been many complaints subsequent to Council’s approval of the changes.

In response to Mr. Tinkoff’s assertion that this is a hotel/motel and a question from Mayor Sager, Mr. Stelford stated Staff does not believe the Hotel/Motel Tax Ordinance is relevant to this issue. He noted upon review this does not fit the definition as defined by the zoning code as understood by Staff or the City Attorney.

Mr. Tinkoff disagreed, stating this is a single-family dwelling. He stated a Bed & Breakfast is owner-occupied, while the house in question is not. Mr. Tinkoff opined this is a business investment that would not qualify as a bed and breakfast. He stated a homeowner could rent his or her home on AirBnB because it is an owner-occupied building, which is the difference.

Councilman Turner stated a Special Use Permit is used to set unique conditions that are not defined or are different from what is in the Unified Development Ordinance. He stated by applying for a Special Use, a petitioner is not trying to match the UDO, but to see how they can use the property for a unique purpose. In response to this, Mr. Tinkoff stated he agrees “somewhat” if the property fits within certain parameters. He opined the property in question fits within the parameters of a motel, and must be zoned for that. Mayor Sager noted it is the City’s opinion it is not a motel. It was noted a bed and breakfast is defined by a different chapter of its own in the UDO.

Kenneth Brown, Club Road, opined the owner of this home has “a lot of political pull,” with which Mayor Sager disagreed. Mr. Brown opined the neighbors saw how this would play out and have gotten used to living with this situation, which is the reason there have been no further complaints. He stated the problems arise when BVGC closes and no one is there to address what is going on. He stated the owner never laid out a plan for the way they are governing the situation, and stated even if the activity has stopped, there is no guarantee it will not start up again.

At the request of Mayor Sager, Mr. Krandel responded. He stated as a result of the discussion at the Plan Commission meeting, BVGC provided the neighbors with Brad Hisel’s (BVGC General Manager) phone number, noting he does not believe anyone called him. He stated the owners have a heightened sensitivity to what is going on and the Club has been telling the renters to be sensitive to the neighbors. Mr. Krandel agreed the owner could have done a better job initially and stated their wish to work with everyone, which was also stated at the Plan Commission. He stated since the Plan Commission meeting they have taken steps to address the neighbors’ concerns and would be happy to continue to take suggestions from the neighbors. He stated he has met with the neighbors; however, he got the message they do not want this use no matter what is done.

Mr. Krandel stated his belief his client has complied with the outstanding issues to address the neighbors’ concerns. He stated the Club was in place with all its associated uses when the neighbors’ built their homes. He noted the owner lives in the neighborhood and wishes to be part of the community.

Mr. Krandel stated if there is a problem, the Special Use Permit would give the City the authority to address these issues, which it does not have now, as this is not prohibited.

Cindy Gore, homeowner between BVGC and the house in question, noted the Plan Commission voted this down. She stated she thought the Special Use in place was to have a golf club in this area, opining the problem is BVGC is trying to be more than a golf club and is trying to be a venue that hosts anything to make them money. Ms. Gore opined the problem is people who rent the house do not respect the people who are living around it. She opined the reason there have been no complaints is because it is winter, opining it will start up again in the summer. She opined this use does not belong in the neighborhood.

Talking about the problems she has encountered, Ms. Gore asked why she should have to put up with this at her home. She stated she does not have anyone’s phone number and disputed Mr. Krandel’s statements.

In response to Ms. Gore’s question as to how this happened after the matter was voted down by the Plan Commission, Mayor Sager talked about the process for an item that comes before the City. He stated he and the Staff try to find points of resolution that can be made. He stated the item did not immediately come before the City Council because no points of resolution could possibly be identified at first.

Mayor Sager stated it was the Council’s decision to hear this matter in 2020 in order to try to bring people together with a resolution. Noting sometimes this works and sometimes it does not, he stated the City was attempting to facilitate this discussion. He stated BVGC agreed they should have done a better job of communicating with the residents and wanted an opportunity to rectify this matter, which the City encouraged.

In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Mr. Krandel stated the changes made by the ownership occurred by June 2019. He stated the rental agreement was rewritten subsequent to the November Plan Commission meeting and presented to that body at their February meeting. He stated various measures were put in place in June or earlier, noting there have been no incidences in all of 2019. He stated most of the issues stated were brought up in November 2018 and are old issues.

Mr. Brown stated he has yet to see any plans on what the owner is doing. He opined the problem is there has never been government oversight of the house when a party is going on, with the problems occurring when everyone is gone from BVCG.

Mr. Tinkoff stated people do not have the contact information, opining this is because the home is owned by an LLC and noting the agreement is with the LLC not BVGC. He took issue with the statement this will affect the golf club’s finances.

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, concerning contact information, Mr. Hisel stated he talked with Mr. Brown and provided him with his contact information. Mr. Brown acknowledged this to be the case. Mr. Hisel talked about the other residents to whom his contact information has been given.

Mr. Hisel opined residents point to the house whenever something happens in the neighborhood, noting things happen that have nothing to do with the house or BVGC. He talked about the things that have been put in place including the rental agreement and references. He stated he does not see how a chaperone could be at the house overnight.

Mayor Sager stated his belief there has been some improvement and also his belief there may be problems the residents do not report. He stated the residents are trying to protect their quality of life, opining a balance must be found between the business and the quality of life issues. He opined there should be a strong dedication to communicate with the residents when people will be at the house and to make sure they have the Manager’s contact information.

In response to questions from Councilman Turner, Mr. Stelford stated while the Police Department regularly patrols the entire City, it would be difficult to establish patrols dedicated to this area specifically. Mr. Hisel stated there are no cameras at the house, but noted this could be done.

Noting many of the issues mentioned this evening have been addressed, Mr. Krandel stated the owner could continue to address others, including improved communication and would be amenable to tabling action tonight. Mayor Sager stated it is Council’s intent to make a decision tonight, opining there are some logical steps that could enhance the steps already taken.

Jodie Kurtz-Osborn, Bull Valley Drive, noted the parking problems created by the weddings. She opined there are events held at BVGC other than weddings and that the house is rented just as a place to stay, not necessarily in connection with an event. She suggested increased Police patrols, cameras, providing after-hour contact information to all the neighbors, and having someone on-call whenever the house is rented and occupied.

Councilman Tebo suggested using the club’s website to communicate information and also opined cameras are a good idea. He noted the City can revisit this should problems continue.

Councilman Turner expressed support of this item, but opined the owner has tested the patience of the neighboring property owners with the past incidents. He advocated for a behavior deposit, as well as a damage deposit. He stated the owner needs to make more progress and prove continued good efforts.

Mr. Hisel stated they will continue to put things in place. He stated their wish is to be good neighbors and stated they need to be told if something happens. Ms. Gore stated this is hard to do in the middle of the night. When asked to do this the next day, she noted “life goes on.”

Nick Ledanski, Bull Valley resident, asked if there is a fine for breaking the rules. Reading from the rental agreement, Councilman Flynn noted there is a $250 fine.

Councilman Flynn opined there has been a miscommunication or lack of communication, as the residents do not know the current measures in place. He stated the owner must make sure the neighbors know what the rules are, and needs to see the rental agreement and house rules. He noted there is a 24-hour contact number available. In response to Mr. Ledanski’s question as to what to do if no one answers, Councilman Flynn suggested calling the Police. In response to a statement from Mr. Ledanski that neighbors should not have to call the Police when something happens, Mayor Sager stated that is the way with all neighborhoods.

Mr. Krandel stated when he met with the neighbors in February, every attendee received a revised rental agreement.

Motion by M. Turner, second by G. Tebo, of Ordinance 20-O-03, identified as Document 1, An Ordinance Approving an Amendment to the Special Use Permit for Bull Valley Country Club to Allow Short-Term Rental of 1245 Club Road, Woodstock, Illinois, subject to the following conditions:

 A copy of the standard rental agreement is to be provided to all homeowner residents who request a copy;

 Outdoor cameras are to be installed on the rental house and the Woodstock Police Department will be provided with all recordings as requested;

 A 24-hour contact phone number for Bull Valley Golf Club and Mundelein Real Properties, LLC management will be provided to homeowner residents;

 Rental agreement shall include a “behavior deposit” which will be enforced;

 All responsible steps will be taken to communicate information regarding rental schedules with homeowner residents.

Mayor Sager opened the floor for comments regarding the motion on the floor.

In response to a question from Mr. Brown, Councilman Turner confirmed this would mean there will not be government oversight on site during rental activity. Mr. Brown stated problems occur when no one is around. Mayor Sager opined a responsible party can be notified with the contact information.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: none. Absentees: none. Abstentions: none. Motion carried.

Item D-3 – Agreement – Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Architect

Item D-4 – Professional Services – Tax Credit Financial Advisor

As Councilman Prindiville requested removal of both items from the Consent Agenda, with his approval, they were discussed and considered together.

Councilman Prindiville stated he does not support these actions. He stated these buildings make up one of most important sites in the City, which were designed for public use. Opining it makes sense to keep the use public, he stated private use is not good for the taxpayers or future generations.

Concerning Item D-4, Councilman Prindiville stated he is opposed to applying for grants for a private sector use, opining the buildings would be better served to search for public sector grants.

Mayor Sager stated there are viable businesses interested in using the Old Courthouse, as it is retained within municipal ownership. He stated he does not understand the Councilman’s definition of “public use,” as businesses such as Ethereal and the Public House have the public utilizing these spaces, so the public has an opportunity to tour and view these buildings. He noted the public would have the opportunity to rent the banquet space as proposed.

Councilman Prindiville opined public use is service provided to the public by a government entity. In response to a question from Mayor Sager, Councilman Prindiville agreed more people visit the Public House than City Hall. Mayer Sager opined it would be better to engage others to bring more people into the building, as well as be a greater help to the community while the buildings remain City property.

Councilman Prindiville expressed concern that to monetize the building will change the building, opining it will be redeveloped, but not restored to the way future generations can appreciate it for what it was originally built. In response to a question from Mayor Sager, Councilman Prindiville opined one component of the building could be a museum, but also the building could be used by a government body such as the City Administration. In response to a question from Mayor Sager as to whether that would introduce many people to the building, Councilman Prindiville opined it would allow people to experience the building and noted the library has made a proposal to use a portion of the building. He opined the Recreation Department could also use a portion.

Mayor Sager expressed appreciation for Councilman Prindiville’s perspective, but noted the building must be paid for and a way must be found to provide long-term viability of the building.

In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Mr. Stelford stated Staff is comfortable with not bidding the architectural services out, as Gary Anderson knows the building and the history of the project. He noted having Mr. Anderson involved could help secure Historic Tax Credits. He stated the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Advisory Commission also felt this was appropriate. Mr. Moore provided information on Mr. Anderson’s history and experience. In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Mr. Stelford stated the amount of this contract is intended to take this from start to finish, but there could be changes once specific tenants are identified. Mayor Sager stated this would allow the architect to work directly with individuals who have submitted proposals. Mr. Moore provided additional information, stating final buildout of the space may be on the tenant, while the design as it relates to one another for multiple tenants, storage, and uses could be a collaborative effort.

Councilman Turner stated his wish to bring forth market-driven proposals. Mr. Stelford stated this plan utilizes a completely different approach then that used by the City in the past, with the new approach similar to a private-sector landlord. Mayor Sager noted this does not preclude incentives approved by Council.

Motion by M. Turner, second by W. Piersall to approve and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a Client Agreement with Gary W. Anderson Architects for architectural services for the renovation of the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House in the amount of $410,000 subject to final review and approval by the City’s legal counsel, and to retain the services of Plante Moran as a financial advisor/accountant to support the City’s efforts to obtain an investor in the City’s Courthouse and Sheriff’s House improvement project, to complete necessary feasibility analysis and properly structure all financial transactions to maximize the utilization of history tax credits, as specified within the Staff reports.

A roll call vote was taken: Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: J. Prindiville. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.

Item D-12 – Ordinances – Purchase of the Die Cast/Woodstock Station Site

Councilman Prindiville stated he does not support the purchase of this property, noting the City will have the control it needs through the development review process. He opined the private sector is best suited to deliver a viable development that will be the most vibrant community for Woodstock

Councilwoman Piersall asked who will bear the brunt of what is discovered by the Phase 2 and if further clean-up is needed. Mayor Sager stated the City knows this is an environmental site based on the past, noting there could be additional requirements because things change over time. Mr. Stelford stated the City will not close on the property until the Phase 2 is completed, so would be aware of any identified challenges and costs involved. Councilman Turner stated the answer will be known beforehand and the City has dealt with this with prior developers.

In response to a question from Councilwoman Piersall, Ms. Schlossberg stated the prior developer is part of the Trust. Discussion ensued. Councilman Turner noted if the City buys the property they control the process. He opined the financing mechanism created by the City Administration is brilliant. Mr. Stelford provided additional information on the financing. Mayor Sager stated the risk is minimal and provides the City with a more direct opportunity to control the process and also allows the City to secure the necessary development of the property, which will serve the City well. He stated Staff has done a great job of putting this deal together.

Councilman Prindiville stated he hears philosophical differences about control of the process. He opined the residents control the process through the development review process. He stated he does not see the advantage of the City owning the property. He stated he would prefer to see the property up for development in private hands with their skills and experience, rather than an elected body. Discussion ensued of the advantages of City ownership vs. private ownership.

Motion by M. Turner, second by D. Flynn, to approve the following:

 Ordinance 20-O-04, identified as Document 4, An Ordinance Authorizing a Taxable General Obligation Loan Facility for the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois which authorizes the issuance of the bank financing for the purchase of the Die Cast/Woodstock Station Property

 Ordinance 20-O-05, identified as Document 5, An Ordinance Authorizing the Purchase of Real Estate being 8 1⁄2 +/- acres Located at the Southwest Corner of First Street & Clay Street, Commonly Known as Die Cast/Woodstock Station.

There were no public comments regarding the motion.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: J. Prindiville. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.

Ordinances – Preliminary Plat/Special Use – 300 N. Eastwood Drive

Councilwoman Piersall invited the petitioner to address the Council.

Addressing the discussion at the last City Council meeting, Troy Paionk, Blue Stone Development, stated it is the developer’s preference that no additional conditions be imposed, opining the Special Use stands on its own without applying conditions that were not requested. However, he stated if Council is not comfortable with this request, the developer would be willing to accept the additional condition.

Noting she supports the five conditions, Councilman Piersall opined she has bigger concerns with putting this development on this parcel.

In response to a question from Councilman Turner, City Attorney Schlossberg stated the fifth condition is outlined in Document #7.

Councilwoman Piersall stated she had a conversation with someone on the Transportation Commission who questioned the need for gas stations as cars get more efficient, and also about the number of gas stations on Rt. 47. She questioned whether this development is the best use for this parcel. Councilwoman Piersall noted she has received concerns from constituents who do not want more gas stations, but rather more restaurants. She also expressed concerns about how many of these gas stations will be used during the Rt. 47 improvement process and about the City having to do remediation in the future. She opined it is compelling the developer is not requesting TIF dollars.

Mayor Sager expressed appreciation for the developer’s interest in investing in Woodstock and for the fact there are no TIF incentives requested. He stated he is not convinced this is the right site in Woodstock, agreeing the City should be mindful of development along Rt. 47. He stated he is not one to say there are too many gas stations, preferring to let the marketplace take care of that. He stated his concern is whether this is the right location for this type of development, noting he might feel different if the plan was for the entirety of the parcel. Mayor Sager stated these are the reasons he cannot support this item.

Councilman Turner stated a few years ago there were complaints of high gas prices in Woodstock. He stated he views Thornton’s as a quality operation. He noted he had similar reservations about locating the Casey’s on the corner of Routes 47 and 14, feeling there should be a better use. He stated the private sector made the decision that it should be a Casey’s and he sees the private sector reacting in this case. He stated he may like to see something else at this location, but noted the City Council zones and approves; however, it does not decide what moves into an appropriately-zoned area.

Councilman Turner stated this development’s contribution into the TIF will be incredible. He expressed hope this development spurs interest in the other buildings on the parcel and could be the catalyst for the area. He stated he is supportive of this development with or without condition #5. He stated the TIF has been in place for a year on this property and this is the development that has come forward, opining the private market has stated this is the most viable use.

In response to a question from Councilwoman Piersall, Mr. Stelford stated the BP on Route 47 will be coming before the City Council for pre-concept approval for expansion of their facility. In response to further questions, Mr. Napolitano stated they have not requested TIF funds.

Councilman Prindiville expressed his hope the owner of this site will phase in redevelopment of the other buildings, stating this is a start. He stated he understands the Mayor’s concerns, but expressed support for this item. He stated this looks like a nice development and opined the market will determine whether there are too many gas stations in terms of competition. He noted the convenience store will provide opportunities for residents.

Councilman Tebo stated he wishes it was something else, but noted this is what the property owners wish to do. He opined it is a nice development near the intersection of Routes 47 and 120 and makes a lot of sense. He opined not having TIF dollars involved and the developer being ready to go are pluses, stating he is supportive of this item.

There were no public comments.

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, Mr. Paionk confirmed he is aware of the contingencies, including the fifth condition and that he understands the City of Woodstock does not allow liquor licenses at gas stations.

Motion by G. Tebo, second by L. Lohmeyer, to approve:

 Ordinance 20-O-06, identified as Document 6, An Ordinance Approving a Preliminary Plat for the Eastwood and Irving Subdivision, with a revised date of 12/10/19

 Ordinance 20-O-07, identified as Document 7, An Ordinance Approving a Special Use Permit to Allow a Gas Station, Fueling Station, and Car Wash at 300 N Eastwood Drive.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, and M. Turner. Nays: W. Piersall and Mayor B. Sager. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.

V. DISCUSSION ITEMS

1. Transmittal of FY20/21 – FY29/30 Capital Improvement Program

Mayor Sager noted this item is transmittal only with discussion to be scheduled at a later date.

2. Schedule Future City Council Workshop Dates

Following a brief discussion, the following dates were scheduled for City Council Workshops:

 February 3, 2020 at 4:00 PM, Stage Left Café, to discuss proposals for the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House

 February 20, 2020, 3:00 PM, Council Chambers, Preliminary Budget Meeting

 April 10, 2020, 1:00 PM, Council Chambers, Final Budget Meeting

VI. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

There were no changes, additions, or deletions to the tentative future agendas.

ADJOURN

Motion by J. Prindiville, second by W. Piersall, to adjourn to a Special City Council Workshop on Monday, February 3, 2020, at 4:00 PM at Stage Left Café. A roll call was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 10:02 PM.

https://www.woodstockil.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/city_council/meeting/35181/f_-_city_council_minutes_-_part_1_of_1_-_01-21-20.pdf