City Council Meeting Minutes

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS
HELD IN THE ELEANOR ROHRBACH MEMORIAL COUNCIL CHAMBERS,
DES PLAINES CIVIC CENTER, MONDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2007

CALL TO ORDER: The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Des Plaines, Illinois, was called to order by Mayor Anthony W. Arredia at 7:00 p.m. in the Eleanor Rohrbach Memorial Council Chambers, Des Plaines Civic Center on Monday, December 3, 2007.

ROLL CALL: Roll call indicated the following aldermen present: Beauvais, Moylan, Murphy, Higgason, Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Argus.

Also present were: Acting City Manager Bajor, Acting Director of Finance Simpson, Assistant to the Acting Director of Finance Wisniewski, Assistant to the Acting Director of Finance Raymond, Police Chief Prandini, Fire Chief Jaeger, Director of Engineering Oakley, Director of Public Works Dusckett, Director of Community & Economic Development Conlan and City Attorney Wiltse.

PRAYER:

The opening prayer was given by Father John Plotkowski, St. Zachary Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

PRESENTATION:

Mayor Arredia introduced Michael Peacock, Public Relations Officer, and Rosalind Manthei, Disaster Reserve Specialist, U.S. Small Business Administration, who explained the application procedures for low interest Federal Disaster Loans for homeowners, renters and businesses who sustained damages and loss of business caused by severe storms and flooding during the period of August 20 through August 31, 2007.

PUBLIC HEARING/2007 TAX LEVY:

MINUTES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING HELD IN THE ELEANOR ROHRBACH MEMORIAL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, DES PLAINES CIVIC CENTER, MONDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2007

CALL TO ORDER:

Mayor Arredia called the Public Hearing to order at 7:10 p.m. The Public Hearing was being held pursuant to legal notice to discuss the proposed property tax levy increase for the City of Des Plaines for 2007 tax year levy, in the amount of $25,769,960, which represents a 4.26% increase over the previous year.

DISCUSSION:

Acting Director of Finance Simpson gave a PowerPoint presentation regarding the reasons for the tax levy, i.e. personnel, contractual services and commodities to provide services to the residents of Des Plaines.

Mr. Brian Burkross, 2133 Webster Lane, addressed the City Council asking if a vote will be taken tonight on the Tax Levy. Acting City Manager Bajor said the ordinance requires a First and Second reading and it must be filed with Cook County no later than December 24, 2007; if no Tax Levy is filed, City would have a 0% Tax Levy.

Dan, who lives at 1211 Brown Street, addressed the City Council stating that he has lived here all his life; he would like to commend the Police Department for what they do on a daily basis, but how will a new Police Station impact our citizens?; are there any alternative plans for additional space?; this sounds irresponsible when we might be facing a recession; we should cut salaries and eliminate positions; maybe an auxiliary could be located on the Littlefuse property; let= s look at ways to help people who may be facing foreclosure.

Mr. Wayne Serbin, 835 Pearson Street, addressed the City Council stating that he agrees with the young man; we should put this on the ballot.

There were no further comments from the aldermen and the public. There will be further action on this matter under Committee of the Whole later in the meeting.

The Public Hearing was adjourned at 7:35 p.m.

The City Council reconvened at 7:36 p.m.

CITIZEN PARTICIPA.:

Mr. Brian Burkross, 2133 Webster Lane, addressed the City Council stating that neither the agenda or the minutes of the Special meeting of the City Council regarding the Police Station were on the Web site. Acting City Manager Bajor said he would look into that. Mr. Burkross stated that residents were assured that tax dollars would not be used for land acquisition in the five (5)-corner TIF, but he sees that there was a committee meeting which addressed purchasing land in the TIF; he is appalled that there would be a committee meeting on this.

A resident at 205 South Leahy Circle addressed the City Council giving an update on the flood relief efforts on her street; there will be a meeting with representatives of American Water next month; she thanked everyone for their efforts.

Phil, who lives at 446 W. Touhy Avenue, Lot #393, addressed the City Council asking if anything has been done about the situation at 640-650 Murray Lane that he talked about at the City Council meeting on November 19, 2007. Acting City Manager Bajor said he would check on this. Phil said there is too much A finger pointing@ in politics; nothing is getting done.

Mr. Wayne Serbin, 835 Pearson Street, addressed the City Council stating that there are Christmas decorations around; why don= t we have anything for Hanukkah; maybe we should do something for them too; they pay taxes too; let= s be all inclusive.

CONSENT AGENDA:

City Clerk McAllister requested that Items 14, 14a and 28 be removed from the Consent Agenda; Alderman Murphy requested that Item 26 be removed; and Alderman Walsten requested that Item 27 be removed.

Moved by Higgason, seconded by Beauvais, to establish a Consent Agenda except for Items 14, 14a, 26, 27 and 28. Motion declared carried.

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to approve the Consent Agenda. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 8-Beauvais, Moylan, Murphy, Higgason,

Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Argus

NAYS: 0-None

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried. Minutes were approved; Staff recommendations and requests were approved; Ordinances MC 71-07, MC 72-07, MC 73-07, MC 74-07, MC 75-07, MC 76-07, MC 77-07, MC 78-07, MC 79-07, MC 80-07, MC 81-07, MC 83-07, MC 84-07, MC 85-07, MC 86-07, MC 87-07, MC 88-07, MC 89-07, MC 90-07 and MC 91-07; and Resolution R-156-07 was adopted.

MINUTES: Consent Agenda

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to approve minutes of the regular meeting of the City Council held November 19, 2007, as published. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to approve minutes of the Executive Session of the City Council held November 19, 2007. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda. 12/3/07

YEAR 2007 TAX LEVY/SPEC. SVS.

AREA #4: Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-71-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to approve Year 2007 Tax Levy for Special Service Area Number Four (Woodland Townhomes, 1560-1568 Woodland Avenue) in the amount of $2,000, as provided in Ordinance MC 11-95; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 71-07, AN ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR SPECIAL SERVICE AREA NUMBER FOUR OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

YEAR 2007 TAX LEVY/SPEC. SVS.

AREA #5: Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-72-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to approve Year 2007 Tax Levy for Special Service Area Number Five (Westfield Lane Water Main) in the amount of $3,782, as provided in Ordinance MC 30-03; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 72-07, AN ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR SPECIAL SERVICE AREA NUMBER FIVE OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

YEAR 2007 TAX LEVY/SPEC. SVS.

AREA #6: Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-73-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to approve Year 2007 Tax Levy for Special Service Area Number Six (2150-2172 Chestnut Street Parking Lot) in the amount of $981, as provided in Ordinance MC 73-04; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 73-07, AN ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR SPECIAL SERVICE AREA NUMBER SIX OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

YEAR 2007 TAX LEVY/SPEC. SVS.

AREA #7: Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-74-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to approve Year 2007 Tax Levy for Special Service Area Number Seven (Woodland Townhomes Parking Lot) in the amount of $12,000, as provided in Ordinance MC 35-05; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 74-07, AN ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR SPECIAL SERVICE AREA NUMBER SEVEN OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

YEAR 2007 TAX LEVY/SPEC. SVS.

AREA #8: Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-75-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to approve Year 2007 Tax Levy for Special Service Area Number Eight (Crabtree Lane Curbs & Gutters) in the amount of $4,200, as provided in Ordinance MC 19-06; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 75-07, AN ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR SPECIAL SERVICE AREA NUMBER EIGHT OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

YEAR 2007 TAX LEVY/ SPEC. SVS.

AREA #9: Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-76-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to approve Year 2007 Tax Levy for Special Service Area Number Nine (624-640 W. Algonquin Road Parking Lot Improvements) in the amount of $2,315, as provided in Ordinance MC 20-07; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 76-07, AN ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR SPECIAL SERVICE AREA NUMBER NINE OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

YEAR 2007 TAX LEVY/ SPEC. SVS.

AREA #10: Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-77-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to approve Year 2007 Tax Levy for Special Service Area Number Ten (642-658 W. Algonquin Road Parking Lot Improvements) in the amount of $2,936, as provided in Ordinance MC 21-07; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 77-07, AN ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR SPECIAL SERVICE AREA NUMBER TEN OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 1996A GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-78-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 1996A General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $462,220, as provided in Ordinance MC 64-96; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 78-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS SERIES 1996A. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/YEAR 1999 GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-79-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 1999 General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $905,998.76, as provided in Ordinance MC 6-99; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 79-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 1999 GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2000 GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-80-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 2000 General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $294,560, as provided in Ordinance MC 25-00; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 80-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2000 GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2001 GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-81-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 2001 General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $220,957.50 of the $317,355 levy, as provided in Ordinance MC 30-01; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 81-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2001 GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2001C GO BONDS:

Ordinance M-82-07

Mr. Dion Kendrick, 943 Webster Lane, addressed the City Council asking for a definition of abatement and would the City be renaming these bonds. Acting Finance Director Simpson gave a definition of abatement and said that the bonds would not be paid for from TIF funds.

Moved by Murphy, seconded by Argus, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize entire abatement of Year 2001C General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $311,362.50, as provided in Ordinance MC 72-01; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 82-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2001 GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS, SERIES 2001C. Motion declared carried.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2002A GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-83-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 2002A General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $104,610.82 of the $651,375 levy, as provided in Ordinance MC 28-02; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 83-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS SERIES 2002A. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda. 12/3/07

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2003A & 2003C GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-84-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 2003A and Year 2003C General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $542,451.26 of the $644,696.26 levy for Series 2003A and $124,207.50 for Series 2003C, as provided in Ordinance MC 43-03; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 84-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2003 GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS, SERIES 2003A AND SERIES 2003C. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2003B GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-85-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 2003B General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $77,444.53 of the $482,220 levy, as provided in Ordinance MC 45-03; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 85-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2003 GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE REFUNDING BONDS, SERIES 2003B. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2003D GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-86-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize entire abatement of Year 2003D General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $1,001,290, as provided in Ordinance MC 58-03; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance M-86-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 LEVY FOR THE 2003 TAXABLE GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS, SERIES 2003D. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2004A & 2004B GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-87-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 2004A and Year 2004B General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the entire amount of $746,143 for Series 2004A and $945,990 for Series 2004B, as provided in Ordinance MC 29-04; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 87-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2004 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES 2004A AND SERIES 2004B. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2005A, B & C GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-88-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of 2005A, Year 2005B and Year 2005C General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $522,737.50 for Series 2005A, $295,900 for Series 2005B and $251,787.50 for Series 2005C, as provided in Ordinance MC 70-04; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 88-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2005 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES 2005A, SERIES 2005B AND SERIES 2005C. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2005E, F & G GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-89-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 2005E, Year 2005F and Year 2005G General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $917,437.50 for Series 2005E, $339,437.50 for Series 2005F and $47,562.50 for Series 2005G, as provided in Ordinance MC 20-05; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 89-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2005 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES 2005E, SERIES 2005F AND SERIES 2005G. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2005D GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance M-90-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize entire abatement of Year 2005D General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $1,705,310, as provided in Ordinance MC 92-04 (which authorized refunding of the 1998 GO Bonds); and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 90-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR

THE 2005 TAXABLE GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS, SERIES 2005D. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ABATEMENT/ YEAR 2007A & B GO BONDS:

Consent Agenda

Ordinance MC 91-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize abatement of Year 2007A and Year 2007B General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds in the amount of $271,670 for Series Year 2007A (which authorized refunding of 2000 and 2001B GO Bonds) and $69,380 for Series 2007B (which authorized refunding of 2001B GO Bonds), as provided in Ordinance M-60-07; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 91-07, ABATEMENT OF THE 2007 TAX LEVY FOR THE 2007 GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS REFUNDING BONDS, SERIES 2007A AND SERIES 2007B. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

ADOPTION/ PERSONNEL POLICY MANUAL:

Consent Agenda

Resolution R-156-07

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to authorize adoption of Revised Personnel Policy Manual which will become effective January 1, 2008; and further recommend to adopt Resolution R-156-07, A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ADOPTION OF THE REVISED PERSONNEL POLICY MANUAL FOR THE CITY OF DES PLAINES. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

LIQ. LIC./ 1177 S. ELMHURST:

Consent Agenda

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to grant request for Change of Ownership of Class A - Tavern Liquors Dealers License for property located at 1177 Elmhurst Road, d/b/a Big House Restaurant; contingent upon verification of fingerprints. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

C.O. #1 ROOF REPLACEMENT/ POLICE STA.:

Moved by Murphy, seconded by Moylan, to REFER BACK TO STAFF for further review approval of Change Order #1 to contract with Singles Roofing Company, Inc., 345 S. Willard Avenue, Elgin, IL 60121, for Roof Replacement at Des Plaines Police Station. Motion declared carried.

LIBRARY PARKING DECK STORM DRAIN PIPE REPLACEMENT:

Moved by Murphy, seconded by Brookman, to concur with Staff recommendation to accept proposal from Fettis, Love & Sieben, 4325 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618, for Des Plaines Library Parking Deck Storm Drain Pipe Replacement - Phase 1, for a total cost of $29,100/Parking Funds; and it would be in the best interest of the City that usual bid procedures be waived. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 8-Beauvais, Moylan, Murphy, Higgason,

Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Argus

NAYS: 0-None

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING SERVICES/ PUB. WORKS:

Mrs. Barbara Van Slambrouck, 286 Stratford Road, addressed the City Council asking what Stage 1 and Tier 2 meant. Director of Public Works Dusckett said the first step in remediation is soil borings and lab analysis to determine the extent of the contamination, then elimination.

Moved by Murphy, seconded by Beauvais, to concur with Staff recommendation to accept proposal from Marlin Environmental, Inc., 3935 Commerce Drive, St. Charles, IL 60174, to provide Environmental Consulting Services for Stage 1 Site Investigation and Tier 2 Interpretation at the Public Works Facility, 1111 Joseph Schwab Road, at a total cost of $19,350.63/Building & Grounds Funds. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 8-Beauvais, Moylan, Murphy, Higgason,

Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Argus

NAYS: 0-None

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

BID AWARD/ PRINTING OF CURBSIDE CALENDAR:

Consent Agenda

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to award bid for Printing of 2008 Curbside Calendar to the lowest bidder to meet specifications, MSF Graphics, Inc., P.O. Box 8164, Northfield, IL 60093, at an annual cost of $9,408/Environmental Services Funds, to print calendar years 2008, 2009 and 2010. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

BID AWARD/HVAC MAINTENANCE:

Consent Agenda

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to award bid for HVAC Maintenance to the lowest bidder, Bedco Mechanical, 322 N. Wolf Road, Mt. Prospect, IL 60056, in the total bid amount of $80 for regular time rate, $120 for overtime rate and a parts markup of 28%/Budgeted Funds. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

BID AWARD/JANITORIAL CONTRACT TRAIN STA. & GARAGES:

Consent Agenda

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to award bid for Janitorial Contract for Des Plaines Train Station and Parking Garages to the lowest bidder, ABC Commercial Maintenance, 2 Ct. Of Harborside, Suite 3067, Northbrook, IL 60062, at a 2008 cost of $1,750 per month, a 2009 cost of $1,750 per month and a 2010 cost of $1,750 per month/Budgeted Funds. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

BID AWARD/ DOWNTOWN SNOW REMOVAL & ICE CONTROL:

Consent Agenda

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation to award bid for Downtown Snow Removal & Ice Control Services to the lowest bidder, American Snow Removal, 825 Seegers Road, Des Plaines, at the following per event costs:

Snow Removal                      Add. De-Icer                  Off-Site Removal
0"-5" $3,600                          $620 - Lots                    $150 - Truck
5.1"-12" $5,800                      $400 - Walks                $160 - Bobcat
12.1"-15" $8,500                                                        $275 - Loader
Per inch over 15" - $780

Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.

MAYOR ARREDIA DECLARED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL WAS NOW RESOLVED INTO A COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION - Alderman Smith, Chair

WARRANT REGISTER:

Moved by Beauvais, seconded by Higgason, to recommend to the City Council approval of the December 3, 2007 - Warrant Register, in the total amount of $2,624,889.50, and further recommend that Resolution R-157-07 be adopted at appropriate time this evening. Motion declared carried.

2007 ESTIMATED TAX LEVY:

Acting City Manager Bajor gave a PowerPoint presentation outlining the recommended tax levy, the alternative options and tax rate comparison; the City is required to adopt a tax levy ordinance and file it with the County Clerk= s Office by December 24, 2007; it is also required that the tax levy ordinance be accompanied with the estimated amounts appropriated or budgeted and the amount of tax levied for each fund.

Alderman Murphy stated that we should look at which fund the proposed Sanitary Sewer Fee will go into; the Comprehensive Plan could be implemented in stages; it does not have to be done all at once; we should keep the General Fund Reserve at 10%; we could eliminate some of the recommended personnel; she will have to vote no if the tax levy includes the fee increases.

Alderman Brookman stated that there are some legitimate needs in the budget document, i.e. a new police station, but these taxes and fees are excessive; it doesn= t matter if it comes from property taxes or from fees; we have to start saying no to spending; the reserve fund should stay at 10%; land acquisition in the five (5)-corners area should be cut; she can support the hotel-motel tax increase because it is in line with what other communities charge.

Alderman Argus stated that she will be voting against the tax levy, the sewer tax and the telecommunications tax; they are too aggressive for these times; we should do this piecemeal; she would however vote for the hotel-motel tax increase.

Alderman Moylan stated that we can= t balance the budget on the backs of the residents; we should vote for this tax levy.

Alderman Higgason stated that we could eliminate the lobbyist and make some other cuts; no one likes to pay taxes.

Alderman Beauvais asked what would have happened if we had not increased taxes last time. Acting City Manager Bajor said we would not have been able to implement the fourth ambulance; our revenues are at or below the market and our services are at or above the market. Alderman Beauvais stated that when you invest in your community, you are investing in the City= s future; maybe if we had done some of this in the past, we would not be facing this now; we have to move forward.

Dan, who resides at 1211 Brown Street, addressed the Committee of the Whole stating that he is very concerned about the 24% increase in his taxes; his property value is going down; cut positions and salaries.

Mr. Brian Burkross, 2133 Webster Lane, addressed the Committee of the Whole stating that he hopes the aldermen go back and look at this budget again; the residents are not going to be happy with what is going on; he thinks the property tax should be raised instead of raising these fees; please review this budget; there is too much spending.

Mrs. Barbara Van Slambrouck, 286 Stratford Road, addressed the Committee of the Whole asking that if you pass the tax levy, what kind of bonding would there be for TIF #4. Acting City Manager Bajor said revenue anticipation bonds, which would not affect the levy. Mrs. Van Slambrouck stated that she can see both sides; she would suggest that you not increase the General Fund Balance; 12% is outrageous; she is disappointed with some of the newer aldermen who want to raise taxes.

Mr. Wayne Serbin, 835 Pearson Street, addressed the Committee of the Whole stating that there is now a housing crunch and soon there will be a credit card crunch; there will be lots of layoffs; people are using their credit cards more and more.

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Murphy, to recommend to the City Council to keep the General Fund Balance at 10%. MOTION DECLARED FAILED (Aldermen Murphy, Brookman and Argus voted yes; Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten and Smith voted no).

Moved by Higgason, seconded by Brookman, to recommend to the City Council the line item for the lobbyist in the amount of $75,000 be removed from the budget. MOTION DECLARED FAILED (Aldermen Higgason, Brookman and Smith voted yes; Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Murphy, Walsten and Argus voted no).

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, to recommend to the City Council that the $3.5 million for land acquisition in TIF District #4 (five (5)-corners) be removed from the budget.

Mr. Bryan P. Lynch, 734 N. Wells Street, Chicago, IL 60610, attorney for the petitioner, addressed the Committee of the Whole, stating that his client has had his business in Des Plaines since 1961; he needs more room. Petitioner Bruce Billmeyer, Stock Gears, Inc., 1401 Redeker Road, Des Plaines, addressed the Committee of the Whole stating that they need to expand and can= t where their are now; they are losing business; they need to move.

MOTION DECLARED CARRIED (Aldermen Murphy, Higgason, Brookman, Smith and Argus voted yes; Aldermen Moylan and Walsten voted no; Alderman Beauvais was absent).

Moved by Murphy, seconded by Brookman, to recommend to the City Council to REFER BACK TO STAFF for further review the 2007 Tax Levy. MOTION DECLARED FAILED (Aldermen Murphy, Brookman, Walsten and Argus voted yes; Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason and Smith voted no; a tie vote is a failed vote).

Moved by Beauvais, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation and recommend to the City Council that the City approve a 3.5% 2007 Tax Levy in the amount of $26,689,651; and Ordinance MC 92-07 be placed on First Reading at appropriate time this evening. MOTION DECLARED FAILED (Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason and Smith voted yes; Aldermen Murphy, Brookman, Walsten and Argus voted no; a tie vote is a failed vote).

2008 BUDGET AS AMENDED:

Moved by Beauvais, seconded by Moylan, to concur with Staff recommendation and recommend to the City Council that the City approve a 2008 Budget in the amount of $133,603,988 (which includes the Library); and Resolution R-158-07 - AS AMENDED be adopted at appropriate time this evening. MOTION DECLARED FAILED (Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason and Smith voted yes; Aldermen Murphy, Brookman, Walsten and Argus voted no; a tie vote is a failed vote).

2008 SALARY SCHEDULES:

Moved by Beauvais, seconded by Moylan, to concur with Staff recommendation and recommend to the City Council to approve the 2008 Salary Schedules implementing changes to the City= s compensation plan; and Ordinance MC 93-07 be placed on First Reading at appropriate time this evening.

Moved by Murphy, seconded by Brookman, to adopt a substitute motion to recommend to the City Council that the 2008 Salary Schedules be REFERRED BACK TO STAFF for further review. MOTION DECLARED FAILED (Aldermen Murphy, Brookman and Argus voted yes; Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten and Smith voted no).

MOTION DECLARED CARRIED on the original motion (Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten and Smith voted yes; Aldermen Murphy, Brookman and Argus voted no).

SANITARY SEWER FEE:

Moved by Beauvais, seconded by Moylan, to concur with Staff recommendation and recommend to the City Council that the City implement a Sanitary Sewer Fee at a rate of $.70 per 100 cubic feet of water usage; and Ordinance MC 94-07 be placed on First Reading at appropriate time this evening. MOTION DECLARED FAILED (Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason and Smith voted yes; Aldermen Murphy, Brookman, Walsten and Argus voted no; a tie vote is a failed vote).

TELECOMMUNIC. TAX:

Moved by Higgason, seconded by Moylan, to concur with Staff recommendation and recommend to the City Council that the City increase the Telecommunications Tax from 3% to 6%; and Ordinance MC 95-07 be placed on First Reading at appropriate time this evening. MOTION DECLARED CARRIED (Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten and Smith voted yes; Aldermen Murphy, Brookman and Argus voted no).

HOTEL-MOTEL OPERATOR= S OCCUPATION TAX:

Moved by Murphy, seconded by Brookman, to concur with Staff recommendation and recommend to the City Council that the City increase the Hotel-Motel Operator= s Occupation Tax from 5% to 7%; and Ordinance MC 96-07 be placed on First Reading at appropriate time this evening. MOTION DECLARED CARRIED.

GENERAL FUND BALANCE:

Moved by Higgason, seconded by Moylan, to concur with Staff recommendation and recommend to the City Council that the City increase the General Fund Balance requirement from 10% to 12%; and Ordinance MC 97-07 be placed on First Reading at appropriate time this evening. MOTION DECLARED CARRIED (Aldermen Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten and Smith voted yes; Aldermen Murphy, Brookman and Argus voted no).

MAYOR ARREDIA ASSUMED THE CHAIR AND DECLARED THE CITY COUNCIL BACK IN SESSION

WARRANT REGISTER:

Resolution R-157-07

Moved by Smith, seconded by Brookman, to concur with recommendation of Committee of the Whole to adopt Resolution R-157-07, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DES PLAINES THAT THE FOLLOWING BILLS ARE DUE AND PAYABLE AND THAT THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK BE AND ARE HEREBY AUTHORIZED TO MAKE PAYMENT FOR SAME. Total: $2,624,889.50. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 8-Beauvias, Moylan, Murphy, Higgason,

Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Argus

NAYS: 0-None

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

2007 TAX LEVY:

Ordinance MC 92-07

Moved by Smith, seconded by Higgason, to concur with Staff recommendation that the City approve a 3.5% 2007 Tax Levy in the amount of $26,689,651; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 92-07, AN ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR THE CITY OF DES PLAINES, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 5-Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten, Smith

NAYS: 3-Murphy, Brookman, Argus

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

2008 BUDGET AS AMENDED:

Resolution R-158-07

Moved by Smith, seconded by Moylan, to concur with Staff recommendation that the City approve a 2008 Budget in the amount of $133,603,988 (which includes the Library); and further recommend to adopt Resolution R-158 - AS AMENDED, A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2008 ANNUAL BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF DES PLAINES. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 5-Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Smith, Arredia

NAYS: 4-Murphy, Brookman, Walsten, Argus

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

2008 SALARY SCHEDULES:

Ordinance MC 93-07

Moved by Smith, seconded by Higgason, to concur with recommendation of Committee of the Whole to approve the 2008 Salary Schedules implementing changes to the City= s compensation plan; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 93-07, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SALARY SCHEDULES OF THE CITY= S COMPENSATION PLAN AS SCHEDULE I, A PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL - FIRE/UNION,@ SCHEDULE III, A PUBLIC SAFETY SUPERVISORY PERSONNEL-EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS/NON-UNION,@ SCHEDULE IV-A, A CLERICAL, ACCOUNTING & MISCELLANEOUS PERSONNEL/UNION,@ SCHEDULE IV-B, A CLERICAL, ACCOUNTING & MISCELLANEOUS PERSONNEL/NON-UNION,@ SCHEDULE V-A, A TECHNICAL, ENGINEERING AND INSPECTION PERSONNEL/UNION,@ SCHEDULE V-B, A TECHNICAL, ENGINEERING AND INSPECTION PERSONNEL/NON-UNION,@ SCHEDULE VI, A PUBLIC WORKS PERSONNEL/UNION,@ SCHEDULE VII-A, A MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL/NON-UNION,@ AND SCHEDULE VII-B, A MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL/NON-UNION,@ OF SECTION 1-8-4 A CLASSIFICATION PLAN TO THE CITY SERVICE,@ OF CHAPTER 8, TITLE I, OF THE CITY CODE OF DES PLAINES, TO REFLECT THE ADOPTION OF THE COMPENSATION PLAN, EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2008 TO DECEMBER 31, 2008. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 5-Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten, Smith

NAYS: 3-Murphy, Brookman, Argus

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

SANITARY SEWER FEE:

Ordinance MC 94-07

Moved by Smith, seconded by Moylan, to concur with Staff recommendation that the City implement a Sanitary Sewer Fee at a rate of $.70 per 100 cubic feet of water usage; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 94-07, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 9, A PUBLIC UTILITIES,@ CHAPTER 2, A SEWER SYSTEM REGULATIONS,@ BY ADDING SECTION 3, A SANITARY SEWER FEE,@ TO THE DES PLAINES CITY CODE. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 5-Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Smith, Arredia

NAYS: 4-Murphy, Brookman, Walsten, Argus

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

TELECOMMUNIC. TAX:

Ordinance MC 95-07

Moved by Smith, seconded by Moylan, to concur with recommendation of Committee of the Whole that the City increase the Telecommunications Tax from 3% to 6%; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 95-07, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 4, A BUSINESS REGULATIONS,@ CHAPTER 3, A MUNICIPAL OCCUPATION TAXES,@ ARTICLE I., A MUNICIPAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS TAX@ SECTION 2, A TAX IMPOSED@ OF THE DES PLAINES CITY CODE. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 5-Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten, Smith

NAYS: 3-Murphy, Brookman, Argus

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

HOTEL-MOTEL OPERATOR= S OCCUPATION TAX:

Ordinance MC 96-07

Moved by Smith, seconded by Brookman, to concur with recommendation of Committee of the Whole that the City increase the Hotel-Motel Operator= s Occupation Tax from 5% to 7%; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 96-07, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 4, A BUSINESS REGULATIONS@ CHAPTER 3, A MUNICIPAL OCCUPATION TAXES@ ARTICLE D., A HOTEL-MOTEL OPERATOR= S OCCUPATION TAX@ SECTION 3, A RATE; EXEMPTION@ OF THE DES PLAINES CITY CODE. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 8-Beauvais, Moylan, Murphy, Higason,

Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Argus

NAYS: 0-None

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

GENERAL FUND BALANCE:

Ordinance MC 97-07

Moved by Smith, seconded by Higgason, to concur with recommendation of Committee of the Whole that the City increase the General Fund Balance requirement from 10% to 12%; and further recommend to place on First Reading Ordinance MC 97-07, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 3, A MUNICIPAL DEPARTMENTS,@ CHAPTER 4, A DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,@ SECTION 3, A APPROPRIATION S@ OF THE DES PLAINES CITY CODE. Upon roll call, the vote was:

AYES: 5-Beauvais, Moylan, Higgason, Walsten, Smith

NAYS: 3-Murphy, Brookman, Argus

ABSENT: 0-None

Motion declared carried.

ADJOURNMENT:

Moved by Brookman, seconded by Higgason, that the regular meeting of the City Council adjourn. Motion declared carried. Meeting adjourned at 10:37 p.m.

Donna McAllister, MMC - CITY CLERK

APPROVED BY ME THIS

DAY OF , 2007

Anthony W. Arredia, MAYOR

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