City of Woodstock City Council met May 17.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
A regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Brian Sager on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. Mayor Sager welcomed those present and explained the consent calendar process and invited public participation. He noted, as is the City’s policy, this evening’s meeting is being live-streamed with a recording archived should members of the public wish to view it in the future.
City Clerk Smiley confirmed the agenda before the Council was a true and correct copy of the published agenda.
A roll call was taken.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Maureen Larson, Jim Prindiville, Mark Saladin, Gordon Tebo, Michael Turner and Mayor Brian Sager.
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: Dan Hart
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, Finance Director/Assistant City Manager Paul Christensen, City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, Public Works Director Jeff Van Landuyt, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Chief John Lieb, Library Director Nick Weber, Opera House Director Daniel Campbell, IT Director Dan McElmeel, City Planner Darrell Moore, Communications Manager/Grant Writer Terry Willcockson, Wastewater Treatment Superintendent Anne George, Parks Superintendent Chris Lynk, City Engineer Ryan Livingston, Public Works Employee Tim Whiston, and members of the Woodstock Police Department.
OTHERS PRESENT: Transportation Commission Chairman Andrew Celentano, Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Advisory Commission Chairman Dennis Sandquist, Friends of the Old Courthouse Board Member Susan Stelford, and City Clerk Cindy Smiley
III. FLOOR DISCUSSION
A. Proclamations
1. Proclamation – National Police Week
Mayor Sager called all members of the Woodstock Police Department present to the dais.
Without objection, the City Council approved and adopted a Proclamation Honoring National Police Week 2019 and the Woodstock Police Department.
Mayor Sager read the Proclamation for all to hear.
Mayor Sager stated the officers present represent the larger group of members of the Woodstock Police Department who serve Woodstock and are being recognized during National Police Week 2019.
He invited all present to commend all police officers for their service on behalf of the community. They were recognized with hearty applause.
2. Proclamation - National Public Works Week
Mayor Sager invited all Public Works employees present forward to the dais.
Without objection, the City Council approved and adopted A Proclamation Honoring National Public
Works Week 2019 and the Woodstock Department of Public Works.
Mayor Sager read the Proclamation for all to hear.
Mayor Sager stated one of the things we take for granted is the fact that every time the water faucet is turned on, clean water comes out and that our public facilities are taken care of. He noted the Public Works Department is always there to take care of things.
He invited all to join him in thanking the Public Works staff who were recognized with hearty applause.
3. Officer of the Year – Detective Sharp
Mayor Sager invited Chief John Lieb to the podium.
Chief Lieb stated every fall nominations are received for the Department Officer of the Year. He stated of the several nominations received last year, one stood out, that of Detective Sharp.
Chief Lieb stated Detective Sharp’s nomination centered around his work on an old case involving allegations of criminal sexual assault of minors. He stated this involved much persistent work on the part of Detective Sharp in going after this individual, noting he was insistent on obtaining some level of justice, which he did. Chief Lieb stated this resulted in Detective Sharp being awarded Department Officer of the Year.
Chief Lieb stated Detective Sharp’s name was forwarded to the McHenry County Police Chiefs’ Association, noting even among those nominations, Detective Sharp was a standout. Chief Lieb stated Detective Sharp was recognized as the McHenry County Officer of the Year earlier this year.
Detective Sharp was acknowledged by hearty applause.
Chief Lieb stated Detective Sharp’s work in this case was phenomoninal, noting it is just an example of the officers who do a phenomenal level of work. He noted the officers of the Woodstock Police Department are here to serve Woodstock.
Mayor Sager congratulated Detective Sharp on behalf of the City Council and Woodstock’s residents and businesses.
IV. PUBLIC HEARING – Harvard/Woodstock Enterprise Zone Amendment
Mayor Sager stated the purpose of this Public Hearing is an amendment to the Harvard/Woodstock Enterprise Zone noting this will be an opportunity for anyone who wishes to speak on this subject to do so.
He opened the Public Hearing at 7:19PM.
City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg stated this Public Hearing has been appropriately noticed with confirmation of publication having been received from the newspaper.
Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson provided a brief history of the Enterprise Zone. He noted several changes have been discussed, stating this Public Hearing is in preparation of Council’s consideration of the changes and subsequent filing with the State of Illinois.
Mayor Sager opened the Floor to Public Comment. There was none forthcoming.
In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Anderson explained the boundaries of the Enterprise Zone regarding residential use and the effect of this.
Motion by M. Larson, second by M. Saladin, to close the Public Hearing.
A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: M. Larson, J. Prindiville, M. Saladin, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: D. Hart. Motion carried.
The Public Hearing was closed at 7:24PM.
V. ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES OF PREVOUS MEETINGS
Motion by G. Tebo, second by M. Larson, to accept the minutes of the April 16, 2019 City Council Meeting and the April 16, 2019 City Council Executive Session as presented.
A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: M. Larson, J. Prindiville, M. Saladin, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: D. Hart. Motion carried.
VI. APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE – Enterprise Zone IGA
Motion by M. Saladin, second by J. Prindiville, to approve Ordinance 19-O-42, identified as Document 1, An Ordinance Amending the Enterprise Zone Designating Ordinance and the Intergovernmental Agreement Between the County of McHenry, the City of Woodstock and the City of Harvard Regarding the Harvard/Woodstock Enterprise Zone.
A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: M. Larson, J. Prindiville, M. Saladin, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: D. Hart. Motion carried.
VII. ADJOURN SINE DIE
Motion by M. Larson, second by M. Saladin, to adjourn this meeting of the Woodstock City Council Sine Die.
A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: M. Larson, J. Prindiville, M. Saladin, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: D. Hart. Motion carried unanimously.
Council adjourned Sine Die at 7:29PM.
VIII. RECOGNITION OF OUTGOING CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
Mayor Sager stated Councilman Hart was unable to be present this evening and expressed his gratitude for Mr. Hart’s service on the City Council noting it is not an easy job. He stated the community should be grateful to those willing to sacrifice to serve.
Mayor Sager thanked Councilwoman Larson for her service, noting she started her journey with the City as City Clerk in 2005. He noted she ran for City Council and has served in that capacity with knowledge and enthusiasm after being elected in 2007, ultimately serving three terms providing 14 years of experience on behalf of the community. He cited her many accomplishments while serving on the Council.
Mayor Sager extended sincere appreciation and commendation to Ms. Larson as she moves on to other opportunities.
Councilwoman Larson was recognized by all with hearty applause.
Councilman Turner acknowledged the great working relationship he has had with Councilwoman Larson, also citing her many accomplishments.
Mayor Sager stated Councilman Saladin has been a member of the City Council since being appointed to fill a vacancy in 2010, noting he never doubted Mr. Saladin was the best person to appoint. He noted Mr. Saladin has also served as Assistant Deputy Mayor Pro-Tem.
Mayor Sager stated many know and respect Mr. Saladin as an attorney in the area noting he is grateful for his expertise and knowledge on a whole host of topics. He cited Councilman Saladin’s many attributes and accomplishments. He expressed his gratitude and thanked Mr. Saladin for his service to the community.
Councilman Tebo stated he has been impressed with the professionalism of the Mayor and City Council. He stated it has been enjoyable serving with Councilwoman Larson and Councilman Saladin.
Mayor Sager invited Councilwoman Larson and Councilman Saladin to approach the dais. He stated one of the traditions upon retirement of a City Council member is to be presented with a commemorative lamp. He thanked them for their services as they have “shown the light” on the community. With the assistance of Deputy Mayor Pro-Tem Turner, Mayor Sager presented lamps to both Councilwoman Larson and Councilman Saladin and also their nameplates, noting it is not easy to say goodbye.
Ms. Larson thanked Mayor Sager for the collegial nature of the Council. She also thanked her sons and husband for their support as she served.
Mr. Saladin thanked his wife, daughter, and son-in-law for their support. He thanked the citizens of Woodstock for their support. He then thanked City Manager Roscoe Stelford, the City’s Directors, and staff, opining they “do the heavy lifting” noting they take the day-to-day burden. He thanked City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg for her guidance and each City Council member by name noting the attributes each brings to the Council.
Mr. Saladin noted the new Council members have great support and urged them to do the best for the City and to “do what they think is right.”
Councilwoman Larson and Councilman Saladin were again acknowledged with hearty applause.
IX. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFICE TO NEW CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
Mayor Sager invited the incoming Councilmembers to come forward, stating the City was honored to have Judge Tiffany Davis present this evening to administer the Oaths of Office.
Judge Davis administered the Oath of Office to new Councilmembers Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, and Wendy Piersall which was met with hearty applause.
X. RECESS FOR RECEPTION
Mayor Sager declared a recess of the proceedings at 7:46PM for a brief reception honoring the former and newly elected Councilmembers.
XI. CALL TO ORDER OF NEWLY SEATED CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Sager re-called the meeting to order and the proceedings reconvened at 8:00PM. He invited the newly seated members of the Woodstock City Council to take their seats and welcomed them to the body.
ROLL CALL
A roll call was taken.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, Wendy Piersall, Jim Prindiville, Gordon Tebo, Michael Turner, and Mayor Sager.
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None
XIII. FLOOR DISCUSSION
A. Public Comment
There was no Public Comment forthcoming.
B. Council Comment
There was no Council Comment forthcoming.
XIV. CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by M. Turner, second by G. Tebo, to approve the Consent Agenda.
In response to a question from Mayor Sager, the following items were removed from the Consent Agenda by the Council or a member of the Public:
Item C-1 – Ordinance – Liquor License/Video Gaming – Oliver’s Bar, 228 Main Street by Councilman J. Prindiville
Item C-4 – Ordinance – City Code Amendment – Boardwalk Rules and Regulations by Councilman J. Prindiville
Item C-9 – Ordinance – TIF Redevelopment Agreement, 301 Madison Street by Councilman J. Prindiville
In response to a question from Mayor Sager, there were no comments or questions forthcoming from the City Council or the Public concerning those items remaining on the Consent Agenda.
Mayor Sager affirmed the Consent Agenda to include items A, B, C-2, C-3, C-5 through C-8, and C-10.
A. WARRANTS: #3854 #3855 #3856
B. MINUTES AND REPORTS:
Police Pension Board Meeting Minutes September 10, 2018
Police Pension Board Meeting Minutes October 16, 2018
Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes January 10, 2018
Opera House Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes March 3, 2019
Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes March 7, 2019
Plan Commission Meeting Minutes March 28, 2019
Police Department Monthly Report March 2019
C. MANAGER’S REPORT NO. 133
2. Hotel/Motel Tax Funding Disbursements - Approval
Tourism Grant Recommendations, as identified in Document 3, authorizing disbursement of funds to local non-profit organizations as outlined to promote tourism and overnight stays in Woodstock, thereby helping create a positive image for visitors to our community, family- friendly entertainment for our residents, and economic support for our valued businesses.
3. Agreement – District 200 School Liaison – Authorization for the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the “Police/High School Liaison Agreement,” identified as Document 4, for the 2019/2020 school year.
5. Ordinance – Zagster Bike Sharing Program - Approval Ordinance 19-O-43, identified as Document 6, An Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of a Memorandum of Understanding for the McHenry County Bike Share Program Provided by Zagster for the City of Woodstock to sponsor a bike share program along with the McHenry County Convention and Visitors Bureau with whom it shall partner and Zagster Inc., the owner and maintenance manager of the bicycles and station.
6. Resolution – TIF Inducement, 131 Washington Street – Approval of Resolution 19-R-07, identified as Document 7, A Resolution of the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, to Induce the Redevelopment of Certain Property within the Woodstock TIF#2 Downtown & Route 47 (131 Washington Street).
7. Ordinance – TIF Redevelopment Agreement, 329 Lake Avenue – Approval of Ordinance 19-O-44, identified as Document 8, An Ordinance of the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, Approving a Redevelopment Agreement By and Between the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, and 329 Lake, LLC subject to final review and approval by the City’s TIF Legal Counsel.
8. Ordinance – TIF Redevelopment Agreement, 1191 Lake Street - Approval of Ordinance 19-O-45, identified as Document 9, An Ordinance of the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, Approving a Redevelopment Agreement By and Between The City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois and LoneStar-Cardinal Motorcycle Ventures XXI, LLC subject to final review and approval of the City’s TIF Legal Counsel.
10.Ordinance – TIF Redevelopment Agreement, 220 S. Seminary Avenue- Approval of Ordinance 19-O-46, identified as Document 11, An Ordinance of the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, Approving a Redevelopment Agreement By and Between the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois and Wainiha Powerhouse Road, LLC, subject to final review and approval by the City’s TIF Legal Counsel.
A roll call vote was taken on items A, B, C-2, C-3, C-5 through C-8, and C-10. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.
Item C-1 – Ordinance – Liquor License/Video Gaming – Oliver’s Bar, 228 Main Street
Councilman Prindiville stated he appreciates what the petitioner is doing at this location and the business they want to start but noted he does not support expanding video gaming in Woodstock so will vote against this license.
Motion by M. Turner, second by W. Piersall, to approve Ordinance 19-O-47, identified as Document 2,
An Ordinance Amending Section 3.3.6, Classification of Licenses; Number and Fees of the Woodstock City Code, increasing the number of Class A-6 liquor licenses by one (1) and the number of total video gaming licenses to twenty-one (21) for Oliver’s Bar & Grill, 228 Main Street, Woodstock, contingent upon fulfillment of all requirements identified in the Staff Report.
Councilman Turner thanked the petitioners for opening this business and stated he appreciates Staff working with them on this. He opined video gaming serves members of the public and provides the petitioner with the ability to develop this business. He opined the diagram of the business is great noting he is very pleased they are moving into the building.
Mayor Sager stated he, too, is happy to have the petitioners join the City of Woodstock.
Dean Lovewell, 324 Dean Street, expressed his gratitude to Councilman Prindiville for consistently raising awareness of the issue of video gaming in Woodstock. He expressed his opposition to video gaming in Woodstock opining it tarnishes the image of Woodstock and does not belong in a historic building and, further, that Illinois has not delved into the social impact of video gaming. He further opined the amount of money the City receives from video gaming is not worth it. He stated the City should not “green light” every video gaming request.
Mayor Sager expressed his appreciation for the resident’s comments, stating there are many things that must be considered with video gaming. He stated it is important to note the City Council has passed an ordinance that limits the number of video gaming licenses in Woodstock with 25 being allowed. He stated the City is at the cusp of having the maximum number of licenses allowed.
A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: J. Prindiville. Abstentions: none. Abstentions: none. Motion carried.
Item C-4 – Ordinance – City Code Amendment, Boardwalk Rules and Regulations
Councilman Prindiville expressed concerns about changes to the rules for the Boardwalk opining minimizes the dining component moves the bar business out onto the street. He also opined increasing the hours will disturb people and is not good progress for Woodstock.
Mayor Sager acknowledged this was a difficult decision but noted he has been pleased and has not seen any evidence of problems with the Boardwalk. He stated he has heard many positive comments and has had requests from the public to expand this.
In response to questions from Councilman Tebo, Councilman Turner stated there has been soft acoustic music. Mr. Stelford stated there may have been one or two minor complaints but no evidence of problems.
Councilman Turner stated the Boardwalk has dressed up this area creating a positive view. He opined this is not unlike establishments in other communities where people wish to dine outside. He stated he has heard from many residents that this is a great thing and has also heard statements that there is no need to serve food. He expressed support for the proposed changes.
Mayor Sager noted that this Ordinance can be revisited and amended should there be a problem.
In response to a question from Mayor Sager, there were no public comments.
Motion by M. Turner, second by G. Tebo, to approve Ordinance 19-O-48, identified as Document 5, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 17-O-59, An Ordinance Establishing Rules and Regulations for the Benton Street Boardwalk.
A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: J. Prindiville. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.
Item C-9 -Ordinance – TIF Redevelopment Agreement, 301 N. Madison
Councilwoman L. Lohmeyer recused herself and exited the Council Chambers at 8:19PM.
Councilman Prindiville stated he has questions and concerns about this item and asked for a presentation from the petitioners.
Joe Billitteri and John Curtis, petitioners, appeared to make the presentation. They identified the area of the development which now includes two residences and two businesses, noting one of the businesses will remain at the location. The development will be a 4-story building with office/retail space on the first floor, along with storage space for the tenants, and residential space on the remaining 3 floors including 12, 1-bedroom units and 6, 2-bedroom units. They talked about the design of the brick building showing elevations and floor plans.
The petitioners stated their belief this will be an attractive complement to the downtown which fits within the Square. They noted they are trying to bring the Square outside “the Square” to expand it and make it a larger experience for Woodstock. They opined this will add to the Downtown and bring a residential component to the area’s restaurants and stores.
They described the residential units noting they will have higher-end finishes, attracting market-rate tenants. They stated they like to do small concept developments to prove the concept noting they believe there is a tenant for this type of apartment in Woodstock and their success in McHenry, Kane, and DuPage counties.
Councilman Prindiville expressed his appreciation to the petitioners opining what they are doing is “fantastic” and noting it is what the City wishes to see in Woodstock. He stated his concern is with the parking lot which the developer is asking the City to turn over to them. Councilman Prindiville stated one of the goals of the TIF is to improve the city’s infrastructure opining the loss of this parking is an infrastructure concern to him.
Noting the petitioner’s wish to secure title to the parking lot in order to secure financing, he asked if it would serve the City better if it retained an easement for public parking. He opined there may be better places for the petitioner’s private parking with some design changes. He suggested using the green space behind the building for parking with the green space being moved to the roof. He also opined the space under the building identified for tenant space could be used for parking.
Councilman Prindiville stated he would be in favor of proceeding with the project with an easement for the City to retain public parking in the lot, discussing the advantages he feels this would provide to both the City and the developer.
Mayor Sager agreed parking is an issue noting the City is looking at various parking solutions. In response to a question from Mayor Sager, Councilman Prindiville stated he is suggesting the City retain a portion of the parking lot, perhaps the number of spaces it now has, with some private parking being appropriate. Mayor Sager noted the parking lot in question is not highly used.
In response, the petitioners noted the City currently uses 30 of the 35 spaces in the parking lot which would mean there would only be 5 spaces available for their entire building according to Councilman Prindiville’s proposal. They noted the green space addresses stormwater issues and removing it would not be up to them noting they must abide by the stormwater ordinance. They also noted it would not be possible to locate parking under the building due to the depth of the building. They stated it may be possible to gain eight spaces through some reconfiguration although this would not be enough parking to offset the costs.
The petitioners expressed appreciation for Councilman Prindiville’s concerns stating they looked at all possibilities when designing the development. They stated parking is necessary to the development to allow the residents to park on-site.
Mayor Sager stated the question before the Council this evening is a TIF Redevelopment Ordinance to allow the developer to continue with the planning with the project having to go through the normal process with the Plan Commission and eventually back to the City Council.
Councilman Prindiville stated the ground-level parking he suggested would not be underground but rather would be in lieu of other first floor uses. He also noted parking in the Downtown is shared.
Councilman Turner stated this is what he would like to see in the Downtown expressing his appreciation for the proposed upscale finishes. He also expressed his appreciation for Staff in bringing this forward at this time.
Councilman Turner also expressed appreciation for the petitioners’ comments about extending the Square which is what he would like to see. He expressed his support for this agreement stating he does not wish to see small parking issues stand in the way of this development.
In response to Councilman Turner’s questions, the petitioners provided additional information on the sizes of the residential units and the rents they expect to see. They discussed how the rent is calculated and how this impacts the development of the building. They noted parking is crucial to this development noting they are sampling the Woodstock market which will help them determine the possibility of future development in Woodstock.
Councilman Turner noted this development would be good for Woodstock bringing people and their income to spend on the Square and in Woodstock.
Councilman Prindiville opined this project will be successful, stating he believes he is obligated to make decisions for all residents. He stated he believes parking is crucial and wishes to maintain the City’s rights to it.
Councilman Tebo opined this project may be the catalyst needed for development and may kick-start other projects.
Councilwoman Piersall stated she feels privileged that this is one of the first things she is able to vote on as a Councilmember.
Motion by M. Turner, second by G. Tebo, to approve Ordinance 19-O-49, identified as Document 10,
An Ordinance of the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, Approving a Redevelopment Agreement By and Between the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois and Billiteri Enterprises, LLC, subject to final review and approval by the City’s TIF Legal Counsel.
A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, W. Piersall, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: J. Prindiville. Abstentions: none. Absentees: L. Lohmeyer. Motion carried.
Councilwoman L. Lohmeyer returned to the Council Chambers and rejoined the proceedings at 8:50PM.
XV. DISCUSSION
1. Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Advisory Commission Resolution
Finance Director/Assistant City Manager Paul Christensen presented proof of concept plans for the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House, noting they have been approved by the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Advisory Commission as a recommendation to the City Council. He talked about the process that brought the Commission to the point, noting Architect Gary Anderson provided numbers for construction costs and included historic tax credits. Mr. Christensen stated then the Commission, Finance Department, and the Building and Zoning Department used this information to develop the proof of concept to show the project could work. He stated these are just broad concepts and are not designed to close out any other concepts or ideas.
Mr. Christensen made a presentation on Concept #1 which would include a Community Arts Center, Office & Visitor Center, Banquet Center, and the Public House in the Old Courthouse. He stated, after considering costs, funding sources, rents and bonds, there would be an annual shortfall of $97,019 which could be covered by TIF#2. He stated that he and the Commission believe this would be an appropriate use of TIF money.
Mr. Christensen then discussed the role of Historic Tax Credits and how they can be secured for this project opining without these it would be a struggle to make the project work. He stated the project may be eligible for $1.9 million in credits. Mr. Christensen stated it is proposed to come back to the Council in June with a request to retain a tax attorney describing the need for this expertise. He opined this would not pigeon-hole the City into any other action.
Mr. Christensen stated it is also proposed that the City go out for an RFP as now a path for funding the building has been ascertained, noting the City could redevelop the building and lease it to someone.
Old Courthouse and Advisory Commission Chairman Dennis Sandquist thanked the Council for their support through this process. He opined the Commission has developed a plan that does not tie the City into any specific use but has some good concepts. He thanked Mr. Christensen who made it possible to go from the architect’s information to these concepts. He stated his belief this is the first time there has been something concrete proposed that could move the project forward.
Mayor Sager noted this is a discussion item with Staff asking Council to consider the Resolution forwarded by the Old Courthouse Commission which recommends:
Hiring an attorney who specializes in historic tax credits
Issuing a Request for Proposal for a banquet facility and other potential tenants giving preference to those consistent with the recommended uses
Identify and partner with a financial institution and commence filing for historic tax credits
Councilwoman Piersall stated there is no scenario considered by the Old Courthouse Commission that would work without the Historic Tax Credits opining it is critical to move on this now. She thanked Mr. Christensen, opining he turned the numbers into a path to move this forward, and Krista Coltrin who took them to the Barrington White House which was a turning point. Mr. Christensen acknowledged the work of City Planner Darrell Moore. Councilwoman Piersall stated this was very much a Staff effort to get to this point.
In response to questions from Councilman Turner, Mr. Christensen estimated the cost to retain a tax attorney to be approximately $25,000. Mr. Moore opined the likelihood of obtaining the tax credits should be good, describing the process and the criteria and noting the City is solid in 3 of the 5 criteria and good on the 4th. He stated no one has the 5th criteria. Mr. Christensen stated the next steps would be to start work on the Historic Tax Credits and begin development of the RFP. He stated the commitment of TIF dollars would not need to occur until responses to the RFP are received and the City knows whether it will receive the Historic Tax Credits.
Councilman Turner stated he would support the Commission’s recommendations as long as the RFP includes “other potential tenants” and does not box the City in. He also urged that the RFP be bold. He opined it should be focused and broad but targeted. He stated it should “sell” the project and go after people who have money and interest. He urged the City to be aggressive and not just “hope” for responses. He expressed appreciation for the efforts to bring the project to this point.
Councilman Prindiville stated he is in favor of public use of the building. He stated someone told him one of the best ideas has been to move City Hall into the Old Courthouse, opining this might make the most sense. He suggested selling City Hall. He expressed support for retention of a tax attorney and consideration of relocating City Hall to the Old Courthouse.
Mayor Sager stated nothing being suggested tonight would preclude anything. He noted the Council is being asked to support the recommendation of the Commission and Staff to retain a historic tax attorney, create and issue an RFP for a banquet facility operator and other tenants, and identify and partner with a financial institution and commence filing for historic tax credits. He stated this must be done now because there are deadlines by which the City must file. He stated this does not preclude discussion of uses in the future.
Mayor Sager stated the City wants to have a good public purpose in the building with people coming and going, opining that is not present in City Hall.
In response to a question from Councilman Prindiville, Mr. Christensen provided additional information about Historic Tax Credits and the process.
In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Christensen stated the Historic Tax Credit Program is a five-year program with the state putting in money each year. Mr. Moore stated he believes this program is fully funded for the next five years.
In response to a question from Mayor Sager, there were no comments forthcoming from the public.
Mayor Sager noted this is not an action item. Without objection, it was the consensus of the Council that it supports the recommendations of Staff and the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Advisory Commission as previously identified.
2. Schedule Council Workshop
Following a brief discussion, it was determined that the City Council Visioning Workshop be held on Monday, June 3, 2019 at 2:30PM.
XVI. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Following a brief discussion, there were no changes, additions, or deletions to the tentative future agendas.
ADJOURN
Motion by J. Prindiville, second by L. Lohmeyer, to adjourn this regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council to the next regular meeting on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at 7:00PM in the Council Chambers. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:15PM.
https://www.woodstockil.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/city_council/meeting/26401/f_-_5-7-19_city_council_meeting_-_part_1_of_1_-_minutes.pdf
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