McHenry Times

City of Woodstock City Council met Feb. 6.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

A regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order by Mayor Michael Turner at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. He explained the Consent Calendar process and invited public participation. This meeting was livestreamed. 

A roll call was taken. 

COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Melissa McMahon, Bob Seegers, Jr., Gordon Tebo, Natalie Ziemba and Mayor Michael Turner. 

COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: Darrin Flynn and Tom Nierman. 

STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, Deputy City Manager/Executive Director of Strategy & Planning Paul Christensen, Executive Director of Operations Christina Betz, Executive Director of Business Development Danielle Gulli, City Engineer Chris Tiedt, City Planner Darrell Moore, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Chief John Lieb, Economic Development Manager Cathleen Tracy and City Clerk Jane Howie. 

OTHERS PRESENT: Cultural & Social Awareness Commission Kerry Smith, Plan Commission Member Rick Bellairs, Economic Development Commission Member John Buckley, and Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry President Brad Ball. 

City Clerk Howie confirmed the agenda is a true and correct copy of the published agenda. 

III. FLOOR DISCUSSION 

Anyone wishing to address the Council on an item not already on the agenda may do so at this time. 

A. Proclamation 

1. Black History Month 

Mayor Turner welcomed Kerry Smith to join him at the podium for the reading of this Proclamation. Ms. Smith thanked the community for recognizing Black History Month and for supporting diversity in Woodstock. The audience received the reading of the Proclamation with hearty applause.

Councilman Tebo shared that The 1619 Project is a great book which denotes the important view of what happened in this country. 

B. Public Comment 

Mr. John Buckley, 1331 Wood Drive, serves as the Executive Director for Independence Health and Therapy. He mentioned a referendum that will be included on the March 19th Ballot addressing mental health services as a whole. He stated that since the 1960s, McHenry County has funded mental health through a property tax levy; however, this could be funded through a sales tax levy, which would be a more stable source of revenue. He asked that everyone vote "yes" on March 19th. 

Mr. Buckley added, currently the funds are not keeping up with the needs. This move to using sales tax would provide a better, more stable way to fund the needed services. 

Mayor Turner thanked Mr. Buckley for his comments. 

Mr. Rick Bellairs, Moraine Drive, shared comments about the success of the Groundhog Day events this past weekend. It was estimated that approximately 3,500 attended the Prognostication on Friday, February 2nd, with people coming from other states and several countries. He mentioned several local establishments that donated their goods. Mr. Bellairs thanked the Police Department and the Department of Public Works, especially for sweeping streets on the Square before 4:00 AM that day. He thanked the Marketing Department and Real Woodstock; adding that the live-stream was even viewed by folks in Ireland. There was great TV coverage this year, even by Al Roker who added Woodstock, IL on his map. Coverage also included "Good Morning America" and of course, WGN News with Tom Skilling, who participated in the event and made this year so special! "We'll see you on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025!" 

In response to a question from Mayor Turner, Mr. Bellairs shared how Tom Skilling made it to Woodstock's event this year. 

Mayor Turner extended his appreciation and kudos to Mr. Bellairs and the Groundhog Day committee. He stated that media attention was worth millions towards promoting Woodstock this year. This is due to the committee that has put in the time over decades, the marketing push from the City, along with the push from other media events with great exposure. This event has built up over the years. Mayor Turner mentioned that the City invested in a piece of equipment to enhance the media's ability to cover this event. That investment has already paid off. The momentum is phenomenal! 

Mr. Bellairs said the audio stream was wonderful and helped to share the information. Councilman Seegers thanked the committee and City staff; great collaboration of so many people. They've worked tirelessly on this event over the years. Discussion ensued pertaining how community events bring people to Woodstock who then shop, dine and spend time in town. Many business owners have commented on how great their businesses did over the Groundhog Day events. There were also comments on how beautiful the lights are on the Old Courthouse Center. 

Councilman Tebo opined that a hotel in town would be a great addition for these events. Councilwoman Ziemba said she visited a dozen or so businesses today. She received comments that last weekend's events were fantastic, everyone was "happy" and "joyful." The events were so much fun! Councilman Seegers said there is definitely an economic impact, which also helps to increase the vibe of the community. He thanked Mr. Bellairs for his time and efforts. Councilwoman McMahon thanked the many, many people involved for their efforts, including the numerous City departments. 

Mayor Turner thanked the committee and City staff. He said it was an extraordinary day. Councilman Seegers suggested getting photos from these community events and displaying them in the City's beautiful Second Floor Conference Room, where event organizers meet with staff. Mayor Turner liked that suggestion and asked staff to proceed. 

Mr. John Allstock mentioned that he's not from the Midwest, but happy to be here. He mentioned many of the community events and has enjoyed them all. He stated that he met with Councilwoman Ziemba before this evening's meeting to wave his crosswalk and sidewalk flag. He added that, as it pertains to traffic around the Square, perhaps volunteers could use these flags to encourage visitors of places to go and to move safely. He also mentioned roundabouts and the tunnel. Mr. Allstock loves it here and he wants to get involved in the community and do some work on his own to support his cause. He'd like to introduce himself to members of Council after this evening's meeting. Mayor Turner thanked Mr. Allstock. 

Mr. Gordon Venn, 301 W. Judd Street, said he liked Groundhog Day. He stated with the continuing growth in Woodstock he's concerned about traffic. He asked what will be done to regulate traffic on the Square during events. Mayor Turner said plans are already in place for events, such as having additional police presence, when needed. Councilwoman McMahon added that the Square is shut down for some of the very large events. Councilman Tebo said the City has used shuttle buses for certain events, as well. In response to a question from Mr. Venn, it was noted that the City's Marketing Department handles the lights on the Old Courthouse Center. They are working on an annual light plan for specific holidays and events. 

C. Council Comment 

Mayor Turner mentioned this week's DARE graduations. He added that four graduations are held in the fall, three in the spring. He said these events are always enjoyable and that Officer Lintner does an outstanding job, and has a great relationship with the schools and students. 

IV. CONSENT AGENDA 

Motion by Tebo, second by McMahon to approve the Consent Agenda. 

In response to a question from Mayor Turner, the following items were removed from the Consent Agenda at the request of Council or the Public: 

• Item D-1 Ordinance - UDO Text Amendments - Solar Energy Farms and Smoke Shops/Vape Shops by Mayor Turner 

Mayor Turner stated that a language change is needed for Item D-2 pertaining to a letter for environmental remediation. The City Administration is asking for authority to clarify very limited language in the agreement being considered at tonight's meeting. Mayor Turner said, if agreed upon by Council, the approval of Item D-2 would also grant specific and narrow authority to the City Administration to finalize this specific language in the agreement. In response, Councilman Seegers asked to remove this item from the Consent Agenda. 

• Item D-2 Ordinance Redevelopment Agreement Between the City of Woodstock and 

Chicago Hubs Realty, LLD - Die Cast Site by Councilman Seegers. 

In response to a question from Mayor Turner, the following questions were forthcoming from the Council or the Public regarding items remaining on the Consent Agenda: 

Item D-3 

Councilman Seegers asked for a description as it pertains to Item D-3-Resolution - Change Order -2023 Sidewalk Replacement Program, and any unforeseen changes that could occur during sidewalk replacement. City Engineer Tiedt said not all changes were unforeseen. Some were sidewalks that needed to be addressed, some sections of sidewalk had sunken so much that the had to be re-done. Councilman Seegers would like staff to make mental notes of this going forward. C. Tiedt said a list is provided to the contractor. He mentioned, as it pertains to the bike path, there were some differences in that instance, as well. 

Item D-4 

Councilwoman McMahon commended the Police Department, as it pertains to Item D-4 Resolution - Police Social Worker Program, on including the Social Worker as a total package to enhance police services to the community. Chief Lieb said this has been in place for two years. The Social Worker is located at the Woodstock Police Department working with troubled youth. In addition, they are working throughout the county collaboratively; it's an effective use of funds. 

Councilman Tebo added that school teachers have gotten more and more things added to their responsibilities over the years. He said it's so nice to see that police are being trained in things that are not always their forte. This is a real plus for our community. 

There were no comments or questions forthcoming from the Public. 

There were no questions forthcoming from the Council or the Public on the motion on the table. 

Mayor Turner affirmed the Consent Agenda to include items A - C, and items D-3 through D-7, as follows: 

A. ACCEPTANCE OF CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 

1. January 16, 2024 City Council Minutes 

B. WARRANTS 

1. #4085 

2. #4086 

3. #4087 

C. MINUTES AND REPORTS 

1. Plan Commission Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023

2. Woodstock Police Department Monthly Report October, 2023

3. Woodstock Police Department Monthly Report November, 2023

D. MANAGER'S REPORT NO. 242: 

3. Resolution – Change Order - 2023 Sidewalk Replacement Program (242c)

Approval of a Resolution #24-R-02 authorizing Change Order #1 to the contract with Alliance Contractors, with an increase in the original contract amount of $40,306.78 for completion of additional work related to the 2023 Sidewalk Replacement Program. 

4. Resolution - Police Social Worker Program (242d) 

Approval of a Resolution #24-R-03 authorizing a four-year Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the County of McHenry and McHenry County Sheriff's Office for the McHenry County Co-Responder Police Social Worker (PSW) Program. 

5. Expenditure - Body Worn Cameras (242e) 

Approval of an expenditure from the proposed FY24/25 General - CIP Fund's budget for the department's next generation of Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs), In-Car Cameras and a comprehensive cloud-based video storage and redaction system through Midwest Public Safety, LLC of Minneapolis, Minnesota for a total cost of $291,669. 

6. Contract Award - Emricson and Merryman Park Path Skip Patching (242f) 

Approval to award a contract for path maintenance at Emricson Park and Merryman Park to the lowest responsible bidder, Twin's Sealcoating, not to exceed $35,300; and authorization for the City Manager, or his designee, to execute a contract subject to final review by the City Attorney. 

7. Ordinance – Business Registration (242g) 

Approval of an Ordinance #24-0-05 amending Title 3, Licenses and Permits, of the Woodstock City Code to add a new Chapter 11, Business Registration Program.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: McMahon, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees; Flynn and Nierman. Motion carried to approve the Consent Agenda. 

Item D-1: Ordinance – UDO Text Amendments - Solar Energy Farms and Smoke Shops/Vape Shops. 

Motion by Mayor Turner that we split the question, splitting the solar energy farm UDO Text Amendment and the smoke shop/vape for separate consideration and voting on those two items, second by Seegers. Mayor Turner said the reason for doing this is he views these as two separate actions and he wants to have them separately considered. He asked for any questions or comments on the motion and second to split Item D-1. Hearing none, he asked for a roll call. 

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: McMahon, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Flynn and Nierman. Motion to split passed unanimously by those present and voting. 

Mayor Turner said he would make a motion to take the split question and to vote on the Smoke Shops/Vape Shops Ordinance. Attorney Schlossberg confirmed that that would be appropriate. Section 1, she corrected to say they'd be voting on Sections 1 and 2, which is the Smoke Shop/Vape Shop of the Ordinance and pulling out Section 3, which is the Solar Energy Farm 

Motion by Mayor Turner that the Council approve Document #1, Ordinance 24-0-06 adopting UDO Text Amendments relating to Smoke Shops/Vape Shops, excluding Sections 2 and 3, second by Seegers. Mr. Stelford asked Mayor Turner if he meant to say excluding Sections 2 and 3, as it should only be Section 3. Mayor Turner stated that he will amend his motion, approval of Document #1, Ordinance 24-0-06, adopting UDO Text Amendments relating to Smoke Shops/Vape Shops, excluding Section 3, second by Seegers. 

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: McMahon, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Flynn and Nierman. Motion carried unanimously by those present and voting this evening. 

Mayor Turner said this brings the Council to the remaining item in D-1, Document #1, Section 3, the Solar Energy Farm UDO Text Amendment. The reason that he pulled this section off and then split the question is that he believes that Council should postpone the action on the Solar Farm until time indefinite, with a target of March 5th, but still to be determined. Mayor Turner stated the purpose for him recommending a motion to postpone is that two Council members are not present for this item this evening and he thought it was important that there be a full body present in consideration and discussion of this item. He asked for Council's feedback. There was a consensus by Council. 

Councilwoman McMahon mentioned that Council will be voting tonight for the Die Cast site with two Council members absent this evening. Mayor Turner agreed that the Die Cast project is definitely larger; however, he also contended that the positions by members of Council have been far more unanimous as it related to that particular item. He added that there is difference of opinion still in this project (Solar Energy Farm), which is one of the reasons it would be prudent to postpone it. Councilwoman McMahon thanked Mayor Turner for the explanation. 

Attorney Kate Duncan and Project Manager Brandy Hillman were in attendance representing the Lily Pond Road Solar Farm. Ms. Duncan stated they are present this evening to answer any questions. Mayor Turner said while this text amendment has some applicability, that is not the agenda here tonight. Council is most interested in deferring to a time indefinite, but in the near future. There were no questions by Council. 

Motion by Seegers to remove Section 3 of the Ordinance - UDO Text Amendment from Document #1, Solar Energy Farms, to postpone this section to time indefinite for later consideration, second by Ziemba. Ayes; McMahon, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Flynn and Nierman. Motion carried unanimously by those present and voting this evening. 

Item D-2: Ordinance – Redevelopment Agreement Between the City of Woodstock and Chicago Hubs Realty, LLC – Die Cast Site. 

Item D-2 was requested for removal by Councilman Seegers. Although he is in support of this project, he had questions in regards to the proposed redevelopment agreement. He asked for clarification as it pertains to the provision within the agreement that provides for the use of 90% of available TIF property tax funds from either site #1 and/or site #2 of this project for reimbursement of TIF-eligible costs derived from either site. In response, Mr. Stelford said the developer must complete all of the sites (i.e., #1, #2 and #3) covered by this agreement; otherwise, this figure is reduced to 40%. Councilman Seegers had concerns about the use of TIF funds, specifically, if the developer uses TIF funds on site #2 that were meant for site #1. Additionally, Councilman Seegers asked what would happen if the developer used TIF funds from site #2 to build site #1, but they never built site #1. Site #2 is the larger site that will generate more TIF dollars. Until site #2 is completed there are no TIF dollars available. 

Mr. Stelford said the developer plans to move forward with site #1 first. In response to a question from Councilman Seegers, Mr. Stelford said no significant funds would be allocated to the developer until site #2 has been completed. He added that the Agreement requires the developer to provide a note to the City for the purchase of the land until they have completed each site and have occupancy. The other part will work itself out; if site #2 doesn't get built, they can only get reimbursed from site #1. Mr. Stelford added that some of the challenges with TIF is how much money is TIF going to generate and how much costs are actually eligible for TIF reimbursement. The City is looking at multiple projects here and must determine what are TIF-eligible costs. Site #1 will have a significant amount of eligible costs due to the affordable housing component. The City is unsure of the eligible costs for site #2, for an assisted living and memory care facility. The City has negotiated what is needed for this project to be successful by both parties. Councilman Seegers thanked Mr. Stelford for this information. He said considering the complexity of this deal, he tipped his hat to City staff for getting to this conclusion because it's pretty concise and clear for such a complicated transaction. 

Mayor Turner commended the builder and shared his enthusiasm for this project. 

Councilwoman Ziemba asked for a better definition for the 70 units of affordable senior apartments. She was looking for clarification on what it means to be affordable. Mr. Stelford said this is based on a percentage of the median income of the community. Steve Sandholtz, Chicago Hubs Realty, said it will require an average of 60% of the median income in Woodstock. This facility will likely use income averaging. This way the company could include some lower income folks, but also, they could have some tenants with up to 80% of the median income. The rules are established by Illinois Housing Development Authority, which is required to receive tax credits. They have applied and preliminarily been awarded tax credits, which dictates how they have to set up that program. 

Mayor Turner said he shared Councilman Seegers thanks to staff as it pertains to the complexity of this agreement. He added that these are significant milestones in any project. The preliminary plat was in June 2023. The transaction includes City land, tax credits, agreements, TIF, etc. He thanked staff and Chicago Hubs Realty. He added that he continues to be very excited about this project and the impact it will have to the downtown, the market needs, and the generation of TIF funds that allow us to further invest not just in this site, but also in other sites. He believes this site will be an asset to the community, not just to the people who live there. He's thankful to have this step come to fruition. Mayor Turner added that he's looking forward to the final plan and then into construction. He thanked Mr. Sandholtz and his team from Chicago Hubs for working with City staff. 

In response to a question from Gordon Venn, Mayor Turner said the building on the north is site #2, which will be assisted living and memory care. The building to the northwest is site #1; affordable housing for adults age 55+. He added that there is a future development, site #3, which is not currently part of this. It's an option for both parties, but it is not part of this redevelopment agreement. 

Ms. Molly Oakford said she reviewed the Council Packet. She recommended that City staff include something similar to an abstract, which would provide a summary for residents. She can't imagine what City staff goes through to prepare each Council Packet. In response to Ms. Oakford's questions, Mr. Stelford said Chicago Hubs Realty (CHR) will be the owner of the project. CHR is in partnership with several groups, including WellQuest. 

Mayor Turner said what's being presented tonight is a redevelopment, as was discussed this evening. As it pertains to site #3, Mayor Turner said their ability to confirm financing wasn't available. He added that the City agreed to enter into an agreement without site #3; therefore, it remains open- ended. It's an option on both sides parts. Either party can step away from the project on site #3. 

In response to further questions, Mayor Turner said CHR's focus is to start buildings on sites #1 and #2. He opined this will be a quality development/project. Mr. Stelford said the City has done studies on seniors and their needs (i.e., Age-Friendly Livable Community Action Plan); their population has grown and will continue to grow in the future. Cedarhurst of Woodstock proves this, as they reached full occupancy soon after they opened. Ms. Oakford is concerned because this site is prime real estate in Woodstock. Mayor Turner shared some discussions he's had, and he added that there is a tremendous need for assisted living facilities. The development will create jobs, have a positive economic impact, and bring visitors to town. Mayor Turner added that this is a high-quality operator and will be able to utilize the TIF; the timing is appropriate. Ms. Oakford recommended that the City remain flexible and make decisions at a later date. 

Ms. Oakford shared her concern about the traffic in that area. She asked about the possible reconnection of the railroad crossing on Wheeler Street at Newell Street. In response, Mayor Turner said Union Pacific will not allow that section of railroad crossing to be reopened. Mr. Stelford added that this is not a decision that the City can make, as Union Pacific is not generally open to re- establishing any closed crossings. 

Further discussion ensued pertaining to the Die Cast site and the use of TIF funds, along with any impact to District 200. Mayor Turner thanked Ms. Oakford for her questions. 

Motion by Mayor Turner approving Document #2, Ordinance 24-0-7 supporting a Redevelopment Agreement by and between the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois and Chicago Hubs Realty, LLC with the noted change granting the City Manager and the City Attorney the ability to determine language regarding the no further remediation letter and that specific, narrow topic alone, second by Tebo. 

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: McMahon, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Flynn and Nierman. Motion carried with the noted amendment to the Ordinance for Item D-2. 

Mayor Turner thanked City staff and Chicago Hubs Realty and looks forward to getting this project started. 

V. DISCUSSION: 

A. Transmittal of FY24/25 – FY33/34 Capital Improvement Program 

Transmittal of the City's ten-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP). 

Mr. Stelford extended kudos to the City staff and the entire team. This is a massive undertaking that is completed each year where staff pulls together all the projects that will benefit this community. He said this is a 253-page document, which has been updated in many ways. It has a new look to incorporate the City's new branding that will soon be released. This will also start the implementation of the City's Strategic Plan, which has been incorporated within this document. Overall, the document includes over $185.0 million in projects over the 10-year period. Mr. 

Stelford pointed out several areas of interest, such as the City's Enhanced Streets Improvement Program will continue. He included that the City has received over $9.0 million in grant funding for upcoming projects. He again thanked the City's team for bringing in these grant funds. He said staff will be requesting that Council support their decision in releasing the $3.0 million in American Rescue Plan funding for the upcoming year in a future Budget Workshop. 

Mayor turner said he appreciated all the work done by Mr. Stelford and City staff. 

VI. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 

Mayor Turner said he will be absent from the February 20th City Council meeting. He added that Lennar's Riverwoods project may be moving to the March 19th Council meeting. Councilwoman McMahon said she will be absent on March 19th. Mayor Turner said they may move the Riverwoods item to the first meeting in April. 

VII. ADJOURN 

Motion by McMahon, second by Tebo to adjourn this regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council to the next regular meeting on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. 

Ayes: McMahon, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Flynn and Nierman. Motion carried. 

The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM.

https://www.woodstockil.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_02062024-300