Village of River Forest Board of Trustees met April 25.
Here are the minutes provided by the board:
A regular meeting of the Village of River Forest Board of Trustees was held at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Room of Village Hall, 400 Park Avenue – River Forest, IL.
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. Upon roll call, the following persons were:
Present: President Adduci, Trustees Bachner, Brennan, Gillis, Johnson, Vazquez, Village Clerk Keller
Absent: None
Also, Present: Village Administrator Brian Murphy, Assistant Village Administrator Lisa Scheiner, Assistant to the Village Administrator Matthew Walsh, Management Analyst Sara Phypher, Management Analyst/Deputy Clerk Elijah Bebora, Fire Chief Thomas Gaertner, Police Chief James O’Shea, Assistant Finance Director Keke Boyer, Director of Public Works and Development Services Jeff Loster, Village Attorney Greg Smith.
Motion by Trustee Brennan to permit Trustee O’Connell to participate in the Village Board meeting remotely due to travel for work. Second by Trustee Vazquez.
Roll call:
Ayes: Trustees Bachner, Brennan, Gillis, Johnson, Vazquez
Absent: None
Nays: None
Motion Passes.
Trustee O’Connell joined the meeting.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Adduci led the pledge of allegiance.
3. CITIZEN COMMENTS
4.ELECTED OFFICIAL COMMENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
a. Recognition of Fire Department Personnel
Fire Chief Thomas Gaertner stated that on Thursday, March 31st at 10:15 am a fire was reported in the home located at 805 Franklin Avenue. He remarked that the River Forest Fire Department and Police Department were dispatched and arrived on the scene within three (3) minutes. He commented that on arrival the officer of River Forest Fire Department Engine 213, Lieutenant John Carter reported smoke showing from the eves and roof vents of a one-story residential structure. Prior to the River Forest Fire Department’s arrival, River Forest Police Department Detective Sergeant Justin Labriola arrived on the scene and was advised of someone possibly trapped in the home. He stated that Detective Sergeant Labriola kicked in the side door of the residence in an attempt to make contact with the homeowner. He commented that after trying to enter the home he was immediately faced with a very heavy and extremely dangerous smoke condition and had to evacuate. He stated that the crew of River Forest Fire Department Engine 213 and River Forest Fire Department Truck 219 stretched one 1-3/4" hose line into the side entrance of the home and began to extinguish the growing fire. He commented that simultaneously personnel from the River Forest Fire Department and the Forest Park Fire Department began a primary search of the residence in an attempt to locate the trapped victim. He remarked that while searching in complete blackout conditions they located the female victim in a rear hallway near a bedroom, unconscious and not breathing. He stated that the victim was immediately removed to the front of the house where crews provided immediate Advanced Life Support and transported her to Loyola Hospital. He commented that extinguishment of the fire continued as well as a secondary search in case of any other unknown trapped victims of which none were found. He remarked that the fire was placed under control at 11:00 am. He stated that due to inhaling a large amount of poisonous smoke, Sergeant Labriola was also transported to Loyola Hospital with smoke inhalation.
Fire Chief Thomas Gaertner presented a Unit Citation to Fire Department Lieutenant John Carter and the Firefighters/Paramedics of Redshift which include Firefighter/Paramedic Chris Doran, Adam Howe, Adam Seablom, and Matt Basa for their life-saving actions at the structure fire on March 31, 2022. Fire Chief Gaertner presented a Life-Saving Award to Police Detective Sergeant Justin Labriola for his life saving actions at the structure fire on March 31, 2022.
b. Recognition of Lisa Scheiner – Proclamation
Village Administrator Brian Murphy stated that wheras, Lisa Scheiner is a dedicated public servant and has served the Village of River Forest with distinction, beginning her tenure as Assistant Village Administrator in 2013; and whereas, among her myriad duties, Lisa guided the Village’s budget and capital planning processes, managed the building division, oversaw the human resources and labor relations functions for the organization, and supported the efforts of the Village’s land use and development-related advisory bodies, as well as administered the Village’s Zoning Ordinance; and whereas, Lisa served as a key advisor to both Staff and the Village Board alike; and whereas With grateful appreciation, Lisa is recognized for her steadfast advocacy for taxpayer dollars and fiscal responsibility, as well as her commitment to the Village’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative; and whereas, Among her significant contributions to the Village, Lisa worked tirelessly as part of the team that formulated, adopted, and implemented the Village’s Comprehensive Plan update; and whereas, Lisa played an instrumental role in developing the Village’s COVID-19 safety campaign and its policy implementation, including the deployment of new land management software, allowing the Village to streamline its permitting process and accept and review applications remotely; and whereas, during her time in River Forest, Lisa’s contributions to the Village are immeasurable and she has displayed an unmatched tenacity to take on new assignments and responsibilities, including serving as Acting Village Administrator from February 2021 through December 2021; and whereas, Lisa will leave an indelible and heartfelt impact on Village Staff and the community as a whole.
Village Administrator Brian Murphy congratulated Assistant Village Administrator Lisa Scheiner and presented her with her proclamation plaque.
Trustee O’Connell stated that he congratulates Lisa Scheiner for all she has done for the Village. He commented that he hopes that there isn’t a perception that certain things are happening in one part of the Village that is not occurring in other parts of the Village. He commented that we are one Village and he hopes everyone makes an effort that everyone in the Village is taken care of and not just certain parts of the community.
Trustee Johnson stated that he is thankful for all Lisa Scheiner has done. He commented that he was impressed with her humility and work with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Group. He remarked that he appreciates what she has done for the community and will be greatly missed.
Trustee Brennan stated that she participated in the 4th Congressional District Roundtable call facilitated by Representative Chuy Garcia. The roundtable discussed the bipartisan infrastructure law, transportation initiatives, and legislative priorities. She stated that four points stood out to her during the roundtable discussion. She stated that the first point is that the Department of Transportation expert mentioned that there are now more resources than ever before. She commented that the second point is when applying for grants that there are four things to consider: safety, climate, equity, economic strength, and transformation. She remarked that the third point is that there are 40 billion dollars for the National Roadway Safety Strategy. She remarked the fourth item is that there seems to be money available from the Transportation Alternative Program for sidewalks, bike paths, potholes, and school safe routes. She remarked that when looking at the budget, the Village should keep these grant opportunities in mind.
Village Clerk Keller stated he would like to congratulate Assistant Village Administrator Lisa Scheiner and he had nothing else to add to the public record.
Trustee Vazquez stated that Ms. Scheiner will be missed, is thankful for what she has done for the community, and wishes her the best. He commented that the Age Friendly Ad Hoc Committee performed an analysis of the survey data they collected and the Committee will eventually present the findings to the Board. He commented that May is Seniors Month. He remarked that on May 11-25th there will be a number of programs and events for senior residents throughout the community. He stated that on May 11, there will be an Aging Fair taking place at Grace Lutheran Church. He commented that on May 14, there will be a Housing Forum at Concordia University. He stated that Age-Friendly Committee Member, James Flanagan has a website called celebratingseniors.net that provides a lot of senior-related information that is very useful. He commented that on May 9, Oak Park-River Forest High School will be hosting an open house for the first phase of its student services construction project from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm at the High School.
Trustee Gillis stated she commends Assistant Village Administrator Lisa Scheiner for her professionalism during her time at the Village. She commented that she wishes for peace around the world. She remarked that Arbor Day is coming up and in celebration, she went to the woods for the Des Plaines River cleanup.
Trustee Bachner began with a land acknowledgment, stating that this land was once and still is inhabited by Indigenous people and that River Forest continues to be a place where people from diverse backgrounds live and gather. She remarked that she would like to congratulate the 8th graders at Roosevelt Middle School for completing their Washington D.C. trip this past weekend. She commented that the Village is lucky to have had Ms. Scheiner as Assistant Village Administrator. She stated that Ms. Scheiner was very informative and knew many answers to Trustee questions on multiple topics.
President Adduci stated that she echoes the Trustee’s comments on Ms. Scheiner. She stated that Lisa Scheiner led with poise, and patience when she was acting Village Administrator. She remarked that Ms. Scheiner is articulate, has great writing skills, and is informed on many topics, and was involved with many Village topics. She remarked that she is thankful to Ms. Scheiner for articulating complex issues for others to easily understand and grasp the issues. She commented that she attended a legislative session with the Illinois Municipal League. She stated that she attended the Lake and Lathrop groundbreaking. She stated that the Concordia University track is open and you can access it from the south entrance. She commented that she would like to wish all mothers a happy Mother’s day.
5. CONSENT AGENDA
a. Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes - April 11, 2022
b. Village Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes - April 11, 2022
c. Older Americans Month - Proclamation
d. Bike Month - Proclamation
e. Compost Awareness Week - Resolution
f. International Risk Management Agency (IRMA) Delegate Change - Resolution
g. Approval of the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Compensation Plan - Ordinance
h. Financial Report - March 2022
Motion by Trustee Brennan to approve consent agenda items A - H. Second by Trustee Vazquez.
Roll call:
Ayes: Trustees Bachner, Gillis, Brennan, Johnson, O’Connell, Vazquez
Absent: None
Nays: None
Motion Passes.
6. CONSENT ITEMS FOR SEPARATE CONSIDERATION
None
7. RECOMMENDATIONS OF BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES
a. Sustainability Commission - Recommendation for Standalone Text Amendments for Solar Energy Systems
Jeff Veazie, Commissioner of the Sustainability Commission addressed the Village Board and stated that the Commission was looking for ways to encourage rooftop solar panel adoption. He commented that the Commission is looking into ways to make the process of acquiring solar panels easier for residents and get SolSmart designation. He commented that the Commission is requesting to accept their recommendation to amend the text amendment so the Village can attain SolSmart silver designation.
The Village Board accepted the recommendation of the Sustainability Commission
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Authorization to Execute an Agreement for Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Services Between the Village of River Forest and Lakeshore Recycling Systems, LLC - Resolution
Motion by Trustee Johnson to authorize the execution of an agreement for solid waste collection and disposal services between the village of River Forest and Lakeshore Recycling Systems, LLC. Second by Trustee O’Connell.
Public Works/Development Services Director Jeff Loster stated that two areas of language previously discussed pertain to opt-out composting and unlimited waste collection. The existing and proposed language for each section are as shown below:
Section 12: Unlimited Household Waste Removal Day (page 7)
•Existing: UNLIMITED HOUSEHOLD WASTE REMOVAL DAY The Village and Contractor agree if the Village desires to have an unlimited household waste removal day, the Village and Contractor shall agree to identify one (1) day in the summer months to hold an unlimited household waste removal day. On the unlimited household waste removal day, residents may place any amount of material Curbside to be collected by the Contractor. All items must be placed Curbside for disposal must be accepted material for disposal and not banned by Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Collection rate shall be based on a truck and one employee hours, extra employee hours, and per ton, as set forth in Appendix A.
Proposed: UNLIMITED HOUSEHOLD WASTE REMOVAL DAY The Village and Contractor agree if the Village desires to have an unlimited household waste removal day, the Village and Contractor shall agree to identify one (1) day in the summer months to hold an unlimited household waste removal day. On the unlimited household waste removal day, residents may place any amount of material Curbside to be collected by the Contractor. All items must be placed Curbside for disposal must be accepted material for disposal and not banned by Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. The Contractor agrees to work with the Village to divert as much material from landfills as is possible. Collection rate shall be based on a truck and one employee hours, extra employee hours, and per ton, as set forth in Appendix A.
Appendix F, Section C1. Opt-Out Composting (page 28)
Existing: Should the composting program reach 51% participation rate by year three (3) of the contract, the Village and the Contractor shall determine whether to implement an opt-out composting rate and program.
Proposed: The Village and the Contractor may enter into negotiation about the implementation of an opt-out composting rate and program at any time during the contract as long as a majority of the Village Board is in support.
Director Jeff Loster stated that the genesis for these proposed revisions is the discussion that took place at the April 11, 2022, Village Board Meeting.
Roll call:
Ayes: Trustees Bachner, Gillis, Johnson, O’Connell, Vazquez
Nays: Brennan
Absent: None
Motion Passes.
9. NEW BUSINESS
a. Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Operating and Capital Budget – Ordinance
Motion by Trustee Vazquez to approve the Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Operating and Capital Budget. Second by Trustee Bachner.
Roll call:
Ayes: Trustees Bachner, Gillis, Brennan, Johnson, O’Connell, Vazquez
Nays: None
Absent: None
Motion Passes.
b. Ethics Amendments – Ordinance
Motion by Trustee Vazquez to amend the ethics ordinance. Second by Trustee Johnson.
President Adduci stated that Ethics Chairperson Peggy Daley led the efforts with the Ethics Commission on the proposed changes to the ethics ordinance. She commented that this is the first major ethics overhaul in a number of years.
Chairperson Peggy Daley stated that the Ethics Commission spent a lot of time looking at other ordinances and best practices in similar-sized municipalities. She commented that the Commission has members who are dedicated and smart. She remarked that the Commission worked with the Village Attorney to make sure everything is aligned.
Roll call:
Ayes: Trustees Bachner, Gillis, Brennan, Johnson, O’Connell, Vazquez
Nays: None
Absent: None
Motion Passes.
10. EXECUTIVE SESSION
None
11. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn by Trustee Johnson, seconded by Trustee Vazquez, the Village Board of Trustees Meeting at 8:35 p.m.
Roll call:
Ayes: Trustees Bachner, Brennan, Gillis, Johnson, O’Connell, Vazquez
Absent: None
Nays: None
Motion Passes.
https://www.vrf.us/uploads/cms/documents/events/4-25-22_River_Forest_Regular_Meeting_Minutes.pdf
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