McHenry Times

City of Woodstock City Council met May 7

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 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7, 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: Darrin Flynn, Melissa McMahon, Tom Nierman, Bob Seegers, Jr., Natalie Ziemba and Mayor Michael Turner. 

COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: Gordon Tebo. 

STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, Deputy City Manager/Executive Director of Strategy & Planning Paul Christensen, Executive Director of Business Development Danielle Gulli, Executive Director of Operations Christina Betz, Public Works Director Brent Aymond, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Engineering Director Chris Tiedt, Utilities Manager Mike Rousey, Building and Planning Director Joe Napolitano, Marketing and Communications Director Heather Arnold, City Planner Darrell Moore, Grant Writer Barb Szul, Human Resources Director Deb Schober, Chief John Lieb, Recreation Department Manager Mary Lynn Lisk, Recreation Department Manager Becky Vidales, Recreation Department Manager Alan Dunker, Office Coordinator Michelle Mallon Jenkins, Office Assistant Kathleen Herff, Sr. Code Inspector Megan Falsetti, Marketing Assistant Jonathon Napiorkowski, a number of representatives from the Woodstock Police Department and City Clerk Jane Howie. 

OTHERS PRESENT: Donna Limbaugh, Dave Zinnen, Andrew Celentano, Mark Indyke, Dr. Mike Moan, and Dr. David Dimmett, President & CEO of Project Lead The Way. 

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. Presentations 

1. Project Lead the Way 

Andrew Celentano shared that he and Mark Indyke have been leaders in the Project Lead the Way program for the past thirteen years. This evening, two student groups from Woodstock High School will be presenting. He added that the projects had to address an issue that was occurring in Woodstock. This is an elective course taught by Mr. Jason Huber in which students receive a grade. Success of this program is driven by the collaboration between City staff, District 200 staff, and the volunteers who provide the guidance. Mr. Celentano shared some of the previous projects that have been researched and implemented by student groups. 

Mr. Celentano introduced the first group. This first group of students presented Solar Panel Installation for North and South Wastewater Treatment Plants Project. The students provided background information pertaining to Woodstock's carbon footprint along with the current usage and costs for energy. 

Mayor Turner thanked the students and the concept itself. In response to a question from Mayor Turner, students shared that this cost includes panels and installation. Students shared that cleaning the panels can be done by a window-cleaning company. The life span of the panels is roughly 20- 25 years. Mayor Turner said the return on investment is decent; this is critical. Mayor Turner asked about federal acts; are there grants available. The students said they haven't looked into grants. It was noted that there is a solar initiative, but as more communities get involved, funds are running out. Mayor Turner commended the students on their presentation. He suggested making it as conversational as possible. 

Councilman Seegers asked for clarity on page 14 of their presentation, return-on-investment of the- panels. He asked what the percent of power means. In response, one of the students shared that the percent is the current power draw. Councilwoman Ziemba stated the students did an excellent job! She asked about Mason City, Iowa, as the population is similar to Woodstock. She opined that Woodstock would need a similar number of panels, which helped the students to calculate the number of panels needed. Councilwoman McMahon suggested, as it pertains to additional costs, the students include information about maintenance, Councilman Flynn asked about the cost to dispose of the panels after their lifespan. He complimented the students on this presentation. Councilman Nierman said the presentation was great! He said, "Be loud, be proud and be heard!” Mayor Turner told the students to anticipate questions as there are always skeptics in the room. He commended the group for touching on the high points and staying in the ten-minute timeframe. 

Mr. Celentano introduced the next group; Improving Woodstock's Walkability. This group of students shared that Woodstock has a lack of sidewalks and crosswalks, which lowers the walkability score, which is currently 25 (car-dependent). They hope that adding sidewalks and crosswalks, with the addition of Little Free Libraries, will decrease crashes throughout town. The group shared information about the 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program. Evanston was mentioned as it's the third highest walkable city in the state of Illinois. The students shared maps that suggested locations for additional crosswalks and sidewalks. They also shared the benefits of installing additional Little Free Libraries throughout town. The students also shared the benefits of including "colorful crosswalks" throughout Woodstock, such as decreasing crashes and the approximate cost of materials. One of the students talked about WalkWise, which is a platform that assists with safety. 

Mayor Turner thanked the students for this presentation. He said he hadn't heard of WalkWise. This platform was designed by one of the students in the class. WalkWise can inform the user of any issues on the walkability map. Mayor Turner said he likes the concept as walkability is a hot topic and a priority in Woodstock. Mayor Turner said, due to the nature of Woodstock as an older city, there's not always a lot of space available. Mayor Turner added that the colorful crosswalks concept is an exceptional idea. One of the students shared that there's a company that paints crosswalks; they could include the City's logo. Mayor Turner loves the colorful nature, the safety feature and art. In response to a question from Councilman Nierman, it was noted that the product is a surface coat. Councilman Flynn said this project could be a relatively small investment, and he loved that they tied in the Little Free Libraries. Councilman Seegers would like the group to include additional information about the walk score in this presentation. He commended the group and said they did a great job! Councilman Seegers said as the students navigate through life, it's so important that they learn to sell themselves. He reminded them to take these projects and use them as they further themselves in the future for opportunities for personal gain and employment. It is a great asset to be your own advocate. Councilwoman Ziemba asked about the 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program. Students shared that they were informed the program ceased to exist during the 2008 housing market crash. Councilwoman Ziemba said she'd like to learn more about Walk Wise; she'd be happy to work with them on this. D. Limbaugh confirmed that the City did have a 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program before 2008. Mayor Turner said Woodstock needs to work on ways of improving the City's walk score. Mayor Turner said as it relates to developers, the City requires developers to pay attention to sidewalks and making their sites walkable. He reminded the students to think about skeptics and introduce things that audience members may be thinking about. Mayor Turner said overall this was a great presentation. Executive Director Betz said the City's Grant Writer will be looking into possible grants for the colorful crosswalks. 

Mayor Turner shared that Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is a national effort, and representatives are here this evening to share exciting news. Dr. David Dimmett, President & CEO of PLTW, introduced himself and shared information about PLTW, which is a non-profit organization that was developed by educators. He said he was so impressed with both groups' presentations this evening. The significance of the work is what happens outside the classroom; learning how to get along with others in your group, even if you disagree, and learning how to communicate. The students apply what they are learning in the classroom. Mr. Dimmett is here this evening to present PLTW's inaugural Community Impact Award. The PLTW organization was founded 26 years ago, with the Community Impact Award developed just this year to recognize students for putting their classroom skills into real world application and making an impact on those around them. He shared that the students that presented the Walkability Project are receiving PLTW's Community Impact Award this evening. Dr. Moan commended the job that Jason Huber, Andrew Celentano and Mark Indyke have done over the years, along with these amazing students and their families. 

Mayor Turner said this evening's presentations were incredibly enjoyable! 

2. Donation from the Giordano Family to Woodstock Police Department Mayor Turner called Mr. Ron Giordano forward and thanked him for this generous donation. It was noted that the current protective shields used by the Woodstock Police Department are no longer useful. This donation will pay for one new shield, with these new shields offering rifle-rated levels of protection. 

Mayor Turner said Mr. Giordano's support, along with his incredible generosity, is invaluable and life-saving. Chief Lieb shared information about Mr. Tom Wilson's previous donation for protective shields, as well. With several new officers and the changes in our society, officers are at an increased level of danger. Chief Lieb thanked Mr. Giordano for his donation and continued support and service. Chief Lieb also thanked Mr. Wilson for his donation as well. 

B. Proclamations 

1. National Police Week (May 12-18) 

Mayor Turner read the Proclamation for all to hear. This City, our community and residents stand behind the Woodstock Police Department. Chief Lieb said he wanted to make it abundantly clear that the men and women of the Woodstock Police Department see the support of the Mayor and City Council. He thanked all Council members. 

2. Donna Limbaugh Retirement Mayor Turner called Donna Limbaugh to join him at the podium. He said retirements are always bittersweet because of losing long-term, valuable employees, but he is also very happy for the retirees and their families. Mayor Turner said D. Limbaugh's role has been impactful over the years and decades. Mayor Turner read the Proclamation for all to hear. D. Limbaugh shared her experiences over the years along with her happiness of working with so many great co-workers and the community. There was a standing ovation and applause by all in attendance. 

3. Dave Zinnen Retirement 

Mayor Turner asked Dave Zinnen to join him at the podium. He said he's known D. Zinnen for a very long time through kids, sports and similar interests. He thanked D. Zinnen for his time invested with the City and said this is another bittersweet occasion. Mayor Turner added that Director Zinnen has guided the Recreation Department and has been invaluable in his contributions and community organizations. In addition, he said D. Zinnen deserves recognition for what he and his family have done at Woodstock North High School from the opening in 2008; they've created a fantastic organization and culture. Mayor Turner read the Proclamation for all to hear. Dave shared his experiences over the years and was greeted with hearty applause and a standing ovation. 

C. Public Comments: None. 

D. Council Comments: 

Councilman Seegers shared that he went to Springfield with Mayor Turner & Roscoe last week pertaining to the $10.0 million. The Mayor did an outstanding job with every staffer we met in the very short amount of time afforded, and getting empathy for our cause, that he acted in an outstanding manner. 

Mayor Turner thanked Councilman Seegers for joining them in Springfield. He briefly shared the brochure that Marketing and Communications Director Heather Arnold and her team compiled quickly on the Friday before they left for Springfield on Monday afternoon. 

Mayor Turner shared that President-Business Manager James Sweeney, International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 150, AFL-CIO, sent a letter to Governor Pritzker supporting the City of Woodstock $10.0 million request to the state of Illinois for the widening of Illinois Route 47 through Woodstock. Mayor Turner has shared this letter with numerous legislators and will continue to send requests. He reminded Council that the City was told they'd be responsible for $6.0 million for the water/sewer infrastructure as it relates to this project. However, IDOT came back with a cost of $16.0 million. This has created a major challenge for Woodstock. Mayor Turner continued on to say that he, Councilman Seegers and City Manager Stelford met with sixteen people on April 30th. They have been sending strategic letters and thank-you notes to all. He will continue with the asks until the City gets some answers pertaining to the appropriation for funding. Mayor Turner extended special thanks to Representative Steven Reick for contacting Local 150 and obtaining their support. Councilman Seegers commended the City's Lobbyist, Joyce Nardulli, because of the relationships she has acquired and maintained. He added that Ms. Nardulli is very valuable. 

Mayor Turner shared that we have two birthdays to celebrate this evening. Mayor Turner wishes a happy birthday to Councilwoman Ziemba and Attorney Schlossberg. 

Note: scrivener's error was contained within the April 16, 2024 City Council Minutes. The location read Woodstock Opera House; however, the meeting was held in the City Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. 

IV. CONSENT AGENDA 

Motion by Flynn second by Seegers 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-11 Contract Award -―FY24/25 Sewer Cleaning and Televising was removed by Mayor Turner. 

• Item D-3 Ordinance ― Zoning Variation 359 S. Madison Street was removed by Councilman Seegers. 

• Item D-4 Ordinance ― Rezoning - 400 St. John's Road was removed by Councilman ― Nierman. 

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-9 

Councilman Flynn stated with a project of this magnitude, staff needs to remain very diligent. 

Item D-5 

Councilwoman Ziemba asked what businesses/locations this request was pertaining to. In response, City Manager Stelford shared that the Woodstock Opera House's liquor license has expanded beyond Stage Left Café to also include the Main Theatre and the Community Room. In addition, the liquor license for Trademark Events on Throop Street has expanded to include both floors of the building; Suite A and Suite B, since Flores Banquets moved out. This Ordinance provides authorization to the Liquor Commissioner to allow for these expansions. 

Mayor Turner affirmed the Consent Agenda to include items A - D-2 and items D-5 - D-10 as follows: 

A. ACCEPTANCE OF CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 

1. April 16, 2024 City Council Minutes 

2. April 16, 2024 City Council Executive Session Minutes 

B. WARRANTS 

1. #4098 

2. #4099 

C. MINUTES AND REPORTS 

1. Environmental Commission Minutes 

2. Library Board of Trustees - Special Meeting Minutes

3. Library Board of Trustees Minutes 

4. Plan Commission - Special Meeting Minutes March 7, 2024 

5. Plan Commission Minutes March 21, 2024

6. Police Pension Board Minutes January 30, 2024 

D. MANAGER'S REPORT NO. 248: 

1. Nominations for Appointment or Re-appointment to Boards and Commissions (248a) Mayor's Appointments and Reappointments of Members to the City's Boards and Commissions. 

2. Ordinance - Zoning Variation - 675 Oak Street (248b) 

Approval of Ordinance #24-0-27, known as Document #1, granting a variation from the Woodstock Unified Development Ordinance for a rear yard setback reduction to allow division of the property at 675 Oak Street, Woodstock, Illinois. (248e) 

5. Ordinance – Amendment to Liquor Control Code – Space Expansion 

Approval of Ordinance #24-O-28, known as Document #4, amending Section 3.3.11(C), Location Restrictions, of the Woodstock City Code regarding location restrictions for liquor license holders. 

6. Resolution - MCMRMA Bylaw Changes (248f) 

Approval of Resolution #24-R-09, known as Document #5, authorizing continuation of the McHenry County Municipal Risk Management Agency which approves extension of the Pool for whatever term is established in the Contract and Bylaws. 

7. FOP Collective Bargaining Agreement-Unit A – May 1, 2024-April 30, 2028 (248g) 

Transmittal of Proposed Collective Bargaining Agreement between the City of Woodstock and Illinois Fraternal Order of Police, Labor Council Lodge #191, Unit A (Patrol Unit). 

8. Contract Award - Park in the Square Electric Upgrades 

(248h) 

Approval to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, utilizing Home Rule authority and waiving of bids, to execute a contract with Associated Electrical Contractors, LLC of Woodstock, IL to provide electrical upgrades and installation services for the Historic Downtown Square in the amount of $114,160; subject to final review by the City Attorney. 

(2481) 

9. Contract Award – Construction of Intergenerational Inclusive Playground 

Approval to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to execute a contract for the construction of the Intergenerational Inclusive Playground in Emricson Park to the lowest responsible bidder, Innovation Landscape, Inc. for a total bid price of $1,087,715; subject to final review by the City Attorney. 

10. Contract Award – Water Well #13 (248j) 

Approval to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to award a professional services agreement to Cahoy Pump Service, Durand, IL for the drilling of a new water supply well for a cost not to exceed $497,461. 

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

Item D-11 – Contract Award – FY24/25 Sewer Cleaning and Televising 

Mayor Turner requested this item be postponed until time indefinite. He asked that staff do some research on this item before bringing it back before Council.. 

Motion by Flynn to approve Mayor Turner's request to postpone Item D-11, Contract Award ― FY24/25 Sewer Cleaning and Televising, until time indefinite, second by Nierman.

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

Item D-3-Zoning Variation – 359 S. Madison Street Councilman Seegers asked if staff had any recommendations to share on this request to change the zoning on this property from a single family to a multi-family home. In response, staff said they had no recommendation on this as it is difficult to determine a hardship in this case. Councilman Seegers asked about the parking situation. City Planner Moore opined that there would be parking spaces for each unit. Councilman Flynn said there appears to be a driveway on the other side of the house. Councilman Seegers asked if any negatives or positives were received from neighbors. In response, D. Moore said nothing was received. D. Moore said he understood that this was used as a two- family building. Mayor Turner said this is Council's decision. Councilwoman McMahon said there are a lot of multi-family homes in the area; therefore, it wouldn't be out of place in this neighborhood. 

Mayor Turner said he doesn't like seeing single family homes turned into multi-family homes. The City does not do a lot of this; however, the neighborhood does have multi-family homes. This structure may do best as a multi-family home. He'd like to see the conversion/condition include a paved driveway. J. Napolitano said it's legal nonconforming. An additional condition can be added to state that the gravel driveway become a paved surface or the owner can remove that driveway. Councilman Flynn said Madison Street is parking on one side of the street only. He suggested that Council require the parking at this time. If they wish to remove this driveway, the petitioner would have to come before Council in the future to request this change. 

Motion by Flynn to approve Item D-3, Zoning Variation 359 S. Madison Street, known as Document #2, with an amendment pertaining to the secondary driveway becoming a hard-surface driveway, second by McMahon. Ayes: Flynn, McMahon, Nierman, Seegers, Ziemba and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Tebo. Motion carried. 

Item D-4-Ordinance – Rezoning - 400 St. John's Road 

Councilman Nierman shared his concern about changing the zoning from B4 to B3. He asked what would happen if this property changed hands in the future. He's concerned about future uses by a new property owner. Attorney Schlossberg said once you change the zoning, it remains in place unless the zoning is changed again in the future. J. Napolitano clarified that the zoning would change from B4 Office District to B3 Service and Retail District. He shared uses allowed in this zoning classification. He added that the lot is only one acre; relatively small. Attorney Schlossberg said perhaps a Special Use could be used in this case. Mayor Turner asked that this be looked at more closely as he's also concerned about other uses. He asked if this would be more appropriately changed to a special use? J. Napolitano said with the UDO being updated, this could be added. Mayor Turner said, given the building and the location, this should be a Special Use to protect future uses. He asked that this unique impact is addressed. 

Valerie Zarate, (who represented Petitioner Juana Zarate) confirmed the use requested. 

Mayor Turner requested that some of the changes discussed this evening be moved forward into a special use category that gives better management and oversight of the related impacts. J. Napolitano said this will be tentatively forwarded at a June City Council meeting. 

Motion by Flynn to approve Item D-4, Ordinance - Rezoning - 400 St. John's Road, known as Document #3, second by Seegers. Ayes: Flynn, McMahon, Nierman, Seegers, Ziemba and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Tebo. Motion carried. 

VII. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 

Mayor Turner said he may be out of town and unavailable to attend the June 4th City Council meeting. 

City Manager Stelford introduced Mr. Mark Pentecost, the new Director of Parks & Recreation. He shared that Director Pentecost has been in the field for about 20 years. Mr. Pentecost said he's happy to be here. He added that he was happy to train under Director Dave Zinnen over the past three weeks as it's been a big help. Mayor Turner, and Council members, welcomed Mr. Pentecost. 

VIII. ADJOURN 

Motion by McMahon, second by Ziemba to adjourn this regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council to the next regular meeting on Monday, May 20, 2024 at 2:00 PM in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. 

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

The meeting was adjourned at 9:28 p.m.

https://www.woodstockil.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05072024-306