Council Minutes 04-07-2025MINUTES 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,
APRIL 7, 2025
CALL TO The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Des Plaines, Illinois, was called to
ORDER order by Mayor Goczkowski at 6:31 p.m. in the Eleanor Rohrbach Memorial Council
Chambers, Des Plaines Civic Center on Monday, April 7, 2025.
ROLL CALL Roll call indicated the following Aldermen present: Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Walsten, Smith, Charewicz. Absent: Brookman. A quorum was present.
CLOSED SESSION Moved by Sayad, seconded by Oskerka, to convene into Closed Session under the following
sections of the Open Meetings Act — Collective Bargaining.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 7 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
MAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 1 - Brookman
Motion declared unanimously carried.
The City Council recessed at 6:32 p.m.
The City Council reconvened at 7:00 p.m.
Roll call indicated the following Alderman present: Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz. A quorum was present.
Also present were: City Manager Wisniewski, Director of Finance Podbial, Director of Public Works and Engineering
Oakley, Director of Community and Economic Development Rogers, Fire Chief Matzl, Police Chief Anderson, and
General Counsel Friedman.
PRAYER AND PLEDGE The prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America were
offered by Mayor Goczkowski.
PROCLAMATION City Clerk Mastalski read a proclamation by Mayor Goczkowski declaring the month of
April as Earth Month.
Mayor Goczkowski presented the proclamation to representatives from Clean Up -Give
Back.
PUBLIC COMMENT Resident Stan Zimmerman mentioned ideas in which he believes could better the City.
ALDERMAN Alderman Smith thanked residents for electing her to another term.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Alderman Charewicz thanked new Des Plaines Library Director Laurie Papadourakis for
attending the last ward meeting, and he mentioned some of the things the library offers for
the residents. He stated State Representative Michelle Mussman is hosting a town hall
meeting on April IS' at the conservatory, and that Village Bank is hosting a shredding event
on May 17'.
Alderman Lysakowski congratulated everyone on the election that just past.
Alderman Sayad thanked everyone who voted, and stated the next 4`' ward meeting will be
on April 24 h at 7:00 p.m. at Golf Road Baptist Church.
Page 2 of 19 4/7/2025
Alderman Brookman stated she spoke with General Counsel Friedman this afternoon, and
that she wants the record to reflect that she is changing her vote on Resolution R-58-25
regarding 1575 Ellinwood St. She requested that the minutes of both the March 171'' meeting
and tonight's meeting reflect her NO vote.
Alderman Brookman stated her reason for the NO vote is that she is concerned over the
$3.5 million unsecured loan at 3%, with 1/3 of the loan, $1.2 million, being given as soon as
they get an occupancy permit. She stated she is concerned the City is adding $3.5 million to
a debt balance, and that her other concern is the City did not go out for a Request for Proposal
(RFP). She stated if the City had gone out for an RFP, the City would have had people
knocking the doors down if they knew that the City was giving an unsecured $3.5 million at
3% and then forgiving 1/3 of that loan, $1.2 million, when they are opened for business.
Alderman Brookman stated for those reasons she changed her vote to NO.
Alderman Brookman congratulated everyone who won the election.
Alderman Walsten stated for Earth Month, Clean Up -Give Back is hosting a cleanup of
Axehead Lake at Chippewa Woods on April 12'j' at 11:00 a.m.
MAYORAL Mayor Goczkowski congratulated all the folks who won their elections this past week. He
ANNOUNCEMENTS stated the swearing in of the new members will be at the meeting on May 51''. He also
mentioned upcoming City events: Food Truck Round Up on May 20' at Friendship Park,
Food Truck Round Up on July 22' at Metropolitan Square, Food Truck Round Up on
August 191 at Library Plaza, Taste of Des Plaines during the weekend of June 13', Annual
Independence Day Parade on July 41, and Community Fireworks on June 29'.
CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Goczkowski stated item #14 will be removed from the Consent Agenda due to
Alderman Brookman's request to change her vote on Resolution R-58-25 and therefore she
requested amending the City Council regular meeting minutes of March 17, 2025 to reflect
the change.
Resident Phil Schloss requested item #8, First Reading - Ordinance M-9-25, be removed
from the Consent Agenda.
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Establish the Consent Agenda without items
#8 and #14.
Upon voice vote, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve the Consent Agenda without items
#band #14.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
Licenses were approved; Minutes were approved; Ordinance M-6-25, M-7-25 were adopted;
Resolutions R-64-25, R-65-25, R-66-25, R-67-25, R-68-25, R-69-25, R-71-25 were adopted.
Page 3 of 19 4/7/2025
City Clerk Mastalski read the items removed from the Consent Agenda.
APPROVE PURCH/ Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve Resolution R-64-25, A
EXERCISE EQUIP/ RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PURCHASE OF EXERCISE EQUIPMENT FROM
DIRECT FITNESS SOL DIRECT FITNESS SOLUTIONS. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under
Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-64-25
APPROVE PURCH/ Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve Resolution R-65-25, A
BALL PROT VESTS/ RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PURCHASE OF BALLISTIC PROTECTIVE VESTS
STREICHER'S FROM STREICHER'S. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent
Agenda.
Resolution
R-65-25
APPROVE REL/ CERT Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve Resolution R-66-25, A
CLOSED SESSION RESOLUTION APPROVING THE RELEASE OF CERTAIN MINUTES OF CERTAIN
MINS/ AUTH DEST/ CLOSED MEETINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND AUTHORIZING THE
CERT VERB REC DESTRUCTION OF CERTAIN VERBATIM RECORDINGS. Motion declared carried as
approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-66-25
APPROVE TO 1/ FIRE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve Resolution R-67-25, A
HYDRANT MAINT & RESOLUTION APPROVING TASK ORDER NO. I WITH M.E. SIMPSON COMPANY,
FLOW TEST/ M.E. INC. FOR FIRE HYDRANT MAINTENANCE AND FLOW TESTING. Motion declared
SIMPSON carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-67-25
APPROVE AGRMT/ Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve Resolution R-68-25, A
ASPHALT CRACK RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH DENLER, INC. FOR THE 2025
SEAL/ DENLER ASPHALT CRACK SEALING-FIBERIZED PROGRAM. Motion declared carried as
approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-68-25
APPROVE AGRMT/ Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve Resolution R-69-25, A
ACTUARIAL SVCS/ RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH LAUTERBACH & AMEN, LLP
LAUTERBACH & AMEN FOR THE PROVISION OF ACTUARIAL SERVICES. Motion declared carried as
approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-69-25
APPROVE IGA AGRMT/ Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve Resolution R-71-25, A
SCHOOL RES OFFICER/ RESOLUTION APPROVING INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH MAINE
SCHOOL DIST NO 207 TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 207 FOR RECIPROCAL REPORTING
AND SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously
Resolution under Consent Agenda.
R-71-25
Page 4 of 19 4/7/2025
AMEND CITY CODE/ Item # 8 was removed from the Consent Agenda at the request of resident Phil Schloss.
QUALIFICATIONS/
DIRECTOR OF PW&E Resident Phil Schloss stated his concerns with amending the City Code regarding the
Consent Agenda qualifications of the Director of Public Works and Engineering. He stated that the City if
considering someone for this position, and the City needs to amend the City Code to get
Ordinance them approved, then the City is already admitting that this person is not qualified.
M-9-25
Resident Phil Schloss also stated approving this amendment could lead to potential problems
in the future, such as now the director and a qualified engineer are being paid when
previously only one person was paid to do the same job. He further asked that if the director
makes a decision on a project that for some reason goes bad, is the director responsible or is
the qualified engineer responsible. He then asked if a bigger problem occurs, is the City
liable for hiring a person they knew was not qualified. He inquired if a police officer wanted
to become Chief of Police but did not have the education or experience, would the City
consider changing the City Code to accommodate that person.
Resident Phil Schloss stated that he believes if the City used the normal interview process,
they would find qualified individuals. He requested the City Council to put off voting for
this amendment for at least two weeks to discuss further since he believes if they vote in
favor, it will be opening a can of worms.
Mayor Goczkowski asked Director of Public Works and Engineering Oakley to speak on the
agenda item.
Director of Public Works and Engineering Oakley deferred to City Manager Wisniewski
who discussed this item with the City Council during closed session.
City Manager Wisniewski addressed having multiple individuals within the department
holding the license. She stated it is important for multiple people to hold the license in the
department or a consultant who is a certified professional engineer since there are various
requirements that come up such as signing off on subdivision plans and other things that of
that nature, and that this opens the City's ability to move through those approval processes.
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance M-9-25,
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 6 OF TITLE 3 OF THE CITY CODE
REGARDING QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF
PUBLIC WORKS AND ENGINEERING.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
SECOND READING/ Advanced to second reading by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Adopt the Ordinance
ORDINANCE M-6-25, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY CODE TO ADD ONE CLASS "E"
M-6-25 LIQUOR LICENSE. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent
Consent Agenda Agenda.
SECOND READING/ Advanced to second reading by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Adopt the Ordinance
ORDINANCE M-7-25, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 2 OF TITLE 9 OF THE CITY CODE
M-7-25 REGARDING SEWER SYSTEM REGULATIONS. Motion declared carried as approved
Consent Agenda unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Page 5 of 19 4/7/2025
APPROVE CHG Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to APPROVE A CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP
OWNERSHIP/ CL B LIO FOR A CLASS B (BULK SALES RETAIL ONLY; FOR OFF -SITE CONSUMPTION
LIC/ AM 25 LIQUOR ONLY) LIQUOR LICENSE FROM HINA, INC. DB/A FOREMORE LIQUORS TO AM
25 LIQUOR, LLC DB/A FOREMORE LIQUORS DP. Motion declared carried as approved
unanimously under Consent Agenda.
APPROVE CHG Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to APPROVE A CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP
OWNERSHIP/ LIO LIC/ FOR A CLASS B-1 (BULK SALES — ALCOHOL NOT PRIMARY RETAIL ONLY; FOR
ADDISON FRESH OFF -SITE CONSUMPTION ONLY) LIQUOR LICENSE FROM BUTERA FINER
MARKET FOODS DB/A BUTERA FRUIT MARKET #590 TO ADDISON FRESH MARKET, INC.
DB/A JIMENEZ INTERNATIONAL. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously
under Consent Agenda.
APPROVE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve the Minutes of the City Council
MINUTES meeting of March 3, 2025, as published. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously
Consent Agenda under Consent Agenda.
APPROVE Minutes of the City Council meeting of March 17, 2025
MINUTES
Consent Agenda Item #14 was removed from the Consent Agenda due to Alderman Brookman's request to
change her vote to NO on Resolution R-58-25 and therefore she requested amending the City
Council regular meeting minutes of March 17, 2025 to reflect the change.
Mayor Goczkowski requested a motion to pass the minutes as amended by Alderman
Brookman.
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Charewicz, to Approve the MINUTES OF THE CITY
COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 17, 2025 as amended by Alderman Brookman to reflect
her vote change to NO on Resolution R-58-25.
Upon voice vote, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
APPROVE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve the Closed Session Minutes of the
MINUTES City Council meeting of March 3, 2025, as published. Motion declared carried as approved
Consent Agenda unanimously under Consent Agenda.
APPROVE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve the Closed Session Minutes of the
MINUTES City Council meeting of March 17, 2025, as published. Motion declared carried as approved
Consent Agenda unanimously under Consent Agenda.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
CONSIDER REPEAL A Director of Community and Economic Development Rogers reviewed a memorandum dated
PRIOR PUD & March 31, 2025.
APPROVE A COND USE
PER FOR A PUD - A The petitioner requests approval of an Ordinance granting (i.) a Conditional Use Permit for
COM PREL, FINAL PUD a Preliminary & Final Planned Unit Development; (ii.) a Major Variation to allow loading
PLAT, MAJ & MIN VAR: spaces that open onto or face a public right-of-way; (iii.) a Major Variation to allow up to
10 W. ALGONOUIN RD four ground signs instead of a maximum of up to three ground signs; (iv.) a Minor Variation
Ordinance for fencing with a height of up to 10.0 feet instead of a maximum of 8.0 feet; and (v.) any
Z-7-25 other exceptions, variations, waivers, and zoning relief as may be necessary.
Page 6 of 19 4/7/2025
The petitioner is Legat Architects as agent for Vetter Commercial Manufacturing USA, LLC,
the property owner. The proposed improvements would be comprised of a new building
generally at the north end of the site to be comprised of approximately 158,000 square feet.
The existing office buildings would remain vacant at this time except for a temporary
occupancy of the north office building by the construction contractors as a site office for the
duration of the construction activities on site.
The site is comprised of two parcels together totaling approximately 17.84 acres. A
consolidation of the two parcels into one lot will be required prior to approval of final
engineering design and prior to issuance of permits for the project. The proposed building
would be situated in an area of existing open space at the north end of the property and would
add approximately 158,000 square feet of new floor area including new mechanical space,
laboratory space, office space, and logistics space.
Three existing buildings would remain. The floor area of the five -story west building,
Building A, is approximately 22,350 square feet. The floor area of the two-story south
building, Building B, is approximately 22,350 square feet. The floor area of the one-story
east building, Building C, is approximately 46,620 square feet. The applicant proposes minor
remodeling improvements to accommodate a temporary occupancy of a portion of Building
A for the purpose of offices for the onsite construction management personnel.
In conjunction with the PUD request, the applicant requests an exception to reduce the
minimum parking requirement to one stall per employee plus one stall per visitor.
The applicant proposes up to 72 employees plus up to 10 visitors during their busiest shift
with 48 employees arriving at a 3 p.m. shift change for a total of 130 simultaneous
individuals daily. The proposed site plan design would provide 318 parking stalls including
both surface and underground parking, a reduction from the minimum required quantity of
parking stalls of 17.5%
If the exception is approved, the applicant will need to maintain compliance with this
minimum parking ratio prior to occupying the existing buildings upon the property any new
uses. Although land -banking of parking is not permissible in the M-3 District per Sec. 12-9-
10 of the Code, there remain areas of open space across the property which could be
improved in the future to accommodate additional off-street parking should additional
parking be required to allow a future use to occupy existing space on the subject property.
A similar exception was included in the PUD Ordinance adopted in 2016 which has since
expired.
The subject property is currently accessible via two full access curb cuts including one
unsignalized access to E. Algonquin Road at the southwest corner of the property and one
signalized access to S. Mount Prospect Road. The proposed improvements would add one
additional full access curb cut to S. Mount Prospect Road for visitors to the site at the
northeast corner of the site.
The applicant provided a traffic impact study. The study includes results from a traffic survey
of existing conditions with the current building vacancies on the property and among other
buildings in the vicinity in addition to projections of future traffic volumes assuming the
proposed building improvements and occupancy of other buildings in the area. The proposed
weekday morning peak hour of traffic is estimated to generate 65 inbound & 5 outbound
traffic movements (approximately 1.2 vehicles per minute). The proposed weekday
afternoon peak hour of traffic is estimated to generate 45 inbound and 65 outbound traffic
movements (approximately 1.8 vehicles per minute). Most of these traffic movements would
utilize the existing Algonquin Road access drive.
Page 7 of 19 4/7/2025
Proposed logistics deliveries, refuse management, and other truck trips would primarily
utilize the signalized access to S. Mount Prospect Road.
Section 12-3-11 requires the facades of the office components of the new building to be
comprised of a minimum of 20% window glass on all floors. Ground floor elevations must
be comprised of face brick, stucco, metal, and/or concrete masonry units while upper floors
may additionally feature painted or stained wood and/or exterior insulation and finishing
systems (EIFS).
Per Code, the subject property would be allowed up to three ground signs, one each along
Algonquin Road and Mount Prospect Road and one at the intersection of the two roads. The
applicant requests a major zoning variation to allow a total of four ground signs including
one ground sign at each entrance to the property and one at the intersection of Algonquin
Road and Mount Prospect Road. Additional wall signage is proposed which would comply
with the design requirements of the Code.
The applicant has provided a site photometric plan and catalog cuts of the proposed light
fixtures. The proposed design features pole -mounted light fixtures with LED light elements
at a height of 20.0 feet designed to direct light inward toward the perimeter circulation drive
and building exterior. In the proposed locations, the light fixtures would not cast light beyond
the lot lines and would be expected not to create glare visible from adjacent properties.
The applicant proposes to retain the existing perimeter fencing which features a transparent
design rather than an opaque design. The applicant has provided a tree survey identifying 96
existing trees that would be retained and 50 existing trees and stumps that would be removed.
The proposed landscaping plan would introduce 261 new shrubs and 133 new trees including
39 new deciduous trees, 45 new evergreen trees, and 49 new "Techny" arborvitae.
Section 12-10-11 of the Code requires screening of roof -top mechanical units and utility
areas. The proposed design utilizes rooftop parapets to screen mechanical units from line -
of -sight from adjacent properties and is intended to provide additional sound attenuation.
Refuse management is proposed within two compactor units proposed within the two
northernmost loading berths.
In accordance with the requirements of Title 14 of the City Code and the Cook County
Watershed Management Ordinance, the applicant is proposing the installation of two new
underground vaults near the south end of the property to provide additional stormwater
detention volume as required for the proposed scope of site modifications
The applicant requests several major zoning variations. The variation requests are
summarized as follows:
• Loading Berth Orientation - Per Code, loading berths are not permitted to be oriented
toward the public right-of-way. The applicant proposes to orient the loading stalls
for the proposed building at the southeast corner of the building facing the existing
signalized intersection at S. Mount Prospect Road. The proposed location would be
arguably less impactful than alternate locations along the west or north side of the
building which abut existing residences. The applicant has not identified a future use
of the proposed open space south of the proposed building, however relocation of
loading berths to this side of the building may inhibit future opportunities for a
building expansion in this direction.
• Perimeter Fence - Per Code, a solid privacy fence with a minimum height of 8.0 feet
is required between the subject property and adjacent residential properties. During
the consideration of the 2016 PUD request, the applicant proposed to retain the
existing 8-foot transparent mesh perimeter fence. In response to results of a ballot
Page 8 of 19 4/7/2025
sent to abutting properties after the Planning & Zoning Board's public hearing on
January 14, 2025, the applicant has amended their original proposal to include a
compliant solid fence. The applicant additionally proposes landscaping in a pattern
of three rows with various spacings in the attempt to provide landscape buffer
between the proposed perimeter circulation drive and the property line. In advance
of the 2025-2026 winter season, the City's Public Works & Engineering Department
will coordinate to ensure snow piling can be accommodated on the south side of the
Kincaid Court right-of-way to ensure access to an existing driveway on the north
side of the street near the fence.
• Fence Height The applicant proposes a second area of fencing along the northwest
corner of the new building on top of a proposed retaining wall. This fencing would
feature a transparent mesh style, but would be installed on top of a new retaining
wall. The height of the fence on top of the wall would stand up to 10.0 feet in height
from the lowest adjacent grade (east of the retaining wall).
The petitioner requests consideration of the following items to facilitate the proposed
development:
1. A Conditional Use for a Preliminary and Final Planned Unit Development (PUD) in
the M-3 Special Manufacturing District;
2. A Major zoning variation for five (5) loading spaces that open onto or face a public
right-of-way;
3. A Major zoning variation to allow up to four (4) ground signs instead of a maximum
of up to three (3) ground signs; and 4. A Minor zoning variation for fencing with a
height of up to 10.0 feet instead of a maximum of 8.0 feet.
The requested PUD would include both the existing and proposed improvements, including
previously approved relief from bulk regulations of the M-3 District to accommodate the
height and other characteristics of the existing office buildings.
The proposal includes a consolidation of two original unsubdivided parcels into one new lot
of record.
Public right-of-way was dedicated previously, and various public improvements are existing
along both E. Algonquin Road and S. Mount Prospect Road.
In addition, the memo states required public improvements for this development will include
new watermain through the site, new underground stormwater detention vaults, in addition
to work within Cook County & IDOT rights -of -way. In addition, Section 13-3-2 of the
Subdivision Ordinance discusses required improvements for subdivided properties and
timelines for the improvements.
The proposed requests for Preliminary & Final Planned Unit Development, the Major
Variation, and a Minor Variation are the first of two phases of required entitlements.
The Tentative & Final Plat of Subdivision needed to consolidate the existing parcels and
memorialize new easements and a Conditional Use for a Localized Alternative Sign
Regulation (LASR) to allow a custom signage plan for the property including more ground
signs than would be permissible by right and any other wayfinding and wall signage would
need to be finalized after the current requests are reviewed by City Council and prior to the
approval of final plans and issuance of permits.
After a Tentative Plat of Subdivision is approved by the Planning and Zoning Board, the
next step is a Final Plat of Subdivision. A Final Plat of Subdivision must be submitted within
12 months of the approval of the Tentative Plat. If the Preliminary & Final PUD is
recommended by PZB and approved by the City Council, the Final Plat of Subdivision will
Page 9 of 19 4/7/2025
need to be submitted for review & approval prior to recording subsequent to the collection
of required financial securities associated with the engineering improvements.
With any subdivision, construction must commence on any required public improvements
within one year. A financial security is collected by the City to guarantee improvements and
released after inspection of completed improvements. An additional warranty security is
collected by the City to ensure the public improvements will not require repair after
installation, any funds from which that remain unused are returned after 18 months after
completion of the project.
The applicant has provided a Preliminary Construction Schedule which outlines their
projected project schedule for construction of site & building improvements. The proposed
construction would be initiated in 2025 and would continue for approximately 24 months
into late 2027.
The PZB voted to recommend approval of the applicant's request as amended by a 5-0-1
vote.
The PZB voted to recommend the City Council to approve with modifications the applicant's
requests for a Conditional Use Permit for a Preliminary & Final PUD, Major Variations and
a Minor Variation including the following subject to the additional conditions as noted:
A. Five (5) loading spaces shall be allowed to face a public right-of-way;
B. Fencing near the northwest corner of the site abutting the circulation drive shall be
allowed a height of up to 10.0 feet instead of a maximum height of 8.0 feet; and
C. One (1) additional ground sign at the entrance to the site for a total of four (4) ground
signs in excess of a maximum of three (3) permissible ground signs.
Condition(s) of Approval:
1. Ordinance Z-9-69 shall be repealed and the previously approved bulk regulations
and improvements authorized by Ordinance Z-9-69 shall be incorporated in the new
PUD Ordinance, if applicable.
2. The applicant shall coordinate with adjacent property owners to determine
neighbors' preference regarding whether an open or solid/opaque fence design shall
be required for the proposed perimeter fence for the subject property.
3. At time of both Tentative & Final Plat of Subdivision, approval of utility easements
by all privately owned utility companies shall be indicated via written
correspondence or lettered on the final document.
4. Final signage shall be considered in accordance with a Conditional Use for a
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation (LASR) Ordinance after all site signage has
been finalized, if necessary.
5. The Petitioner must maintain the Property and operate the Proposed Use in
compliance with the Performance Standards in Chapter 12 of Title 12 of the City
Code, including, without limitation, light, odor, and noise. Upon the receipt of
complaints regarding the operation of the Proposed Use, the City will investigate
and apply the appropriate provisions, If City code enforcement staff observes or
detects a violation of the Performance Standards ("Original Violation"), it will notify
the Petitioner in writing and provide a 14-day period for compliance, which
compliance must be verified at a follow-up inspection. If upon follow-up inspection
the Original Violation is still observed and uncorrected, a citation will be issued to
Petitioner, which may result in a fine in a final amount to be determined by the City's
administrative hearing officer.
Page 10 of 19 4n12025
Advanced to second reading by Charewicz, seconded by Sayad, to Adopt the Ordinance
Z-7-25 as amended, AN ORDINANCE REPEALING A PRIOR PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT AND APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A
PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT INCLUDING A COMBINED PRELIMINARY AND
FINAL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT PLAT, ALONG WITH MAJOR
VARIATIONS, AND A MINOR VARIATION FOR 10 W. ALGONQUIN ROAD, DES
PLAINES, ILLINOIS (CASE #24-063-PUD).
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 7 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: I - Brookman
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
CONSIDER Director of Community and Economic Development Rogers reviewed a memorandum dated
APPROVING COND USE March 26, 2025.
PERMITS FOR TRADE
CONTR USES AND MAJ The petitioners' original 2024 application —separate conditional uses for two trade
VAR FOR OUTDOOR contractor uses in the C-3 General Commercial district —was heard at the June 11, 2024 PZB
DISPLAY AND meeting and recommended for approval with the five staff conditions. However, when the
STORAGE OF case was heard at the July 15, 2024 City Council meeting, various concerns were raised
FINISHED PROD AT 965 related to screening of roofing materials on site and the condition of the pet clinic building
AND 975 RAND RD at 965 Rand Road.
Ordinance
Z-8-25 The petitioners worked with staff to revise the Site and Landscape Plan accordingly to
address Council's concerns. The case was deferred multiple times by Council and was later
withdrawn by the petitioners, who were interested in pursuing a major variation related to
the permitted outdoor location for the display and storage of finished products.
The subject properties consist of two separate parcels —both located in the C-3 district —
which are under common ownership.
Trade contractor uses require a conditional use in the C-3 district. As such, the petitioners,
Peter Wrzesinski of Advanced Roofing and Norma Diamano of Landscaping by AD INC,
request conditional uses for two existing trade contractor businesses: one for Advanced
Roofing and the other for Landscaping by AD INC.
Currently, both uses operate out of the southernmost building located on 975 Rand Road.
However, the Landscaping by AD INC business is interested in utilizing the property at 965
Rand Road for parking and storage of its vehicles.
The conditional use requests are related to the existing trade contractor businesses operating
in the southernmost building at 975 Rand Road. That said, the Floor Plan designates the
building areas devoted to each of the proposed uses as well as general areas for building
operations, which are summarized in the table on the following page. While there are no
proposed changes to the existing building itself, there are proposed changes to the site,
especially regarding designated parking and storage areas for each trade contractor business.
The proposal does not include any changes to the exterior metal building favade of the
existing two-story building.
There is currently one two-way travel access point from Rand Road for each of the subject
properties, which will both be maintained as part of this proposal without any changes.
Section 12-9-6 of the Zoning Ordinance requires drive aisles to be a minimum of 22 feet in
width for two-way travel and a minimum of 12 feet in width for one-way travel. While the
specific width of these curb cuts was not identified on the original Site and Landscape Plan,
Page 11 of 19 4/7/2025
the petitioners, in collaboration with staff, have revised the Site and Landscape Plan to show
the widths of both curb cuts. The 965 Rand Road curb cut meets this requirement with the
removal of a single parking space. However, the 975 Rand Road curb cut is less than 22 feet
in width requiring either: (i) a slight widening of this curb cut and drive aisle to allow for
adequate two-way travel; or (ii) a change in the access of this curb cut to one-way travel.
Given the multiple uses located on the 975 Rand Road property, the drive aisle should ideally
be widened to provide another full access point on the subject properties. To this end, staff
have added a condition that the 975 Rand Road curb cut and driveway shall either be widened
to 22 feet in width in accordance with Section 12-9-6 of the Zoning Ordinance to
accommodate two-way travel or shall be designated as a one-way with clear indication of
the vehicular circulation throughout the entire property.
Sections 12-9-7 and 12-9-8 of the Zoning Ordinance govern the number of off-street standard
and accessible parking spaces required based on the property uses. There are no minimum
parking requirements for trade contractor uses. However, considerations shall be made based
on the following:
• The anticipated number of employees and members of the public that would visit
the subject properties for the existing trade contractor uses.
• The loss of off-street parking from the conversion of existing parking areas to private
parking and storage for the trade contractor uses.
• The minimum requirement of two parking spaces for each apartment unit totaling
eight, including at least one accessible space.
• The parking requirement for the future user of the vacant building at 965 Rand Road.
Based on the Site and Landscape Plan, 16 parking spaces will be available on 965 Rand Road
and 22 parking spaces —including one accessible space —will be available for 975 Rand
Road totaling 38 off-street parking spaces between both properties. The table below
summarizes the allocation of all available parking spaces shown on the Site and Landscape
Plan to confirm compliance with Sections 12-9-7 and 12-9-8 of the Des Plaines Zoning
Ordinance.
As noted in the table, there is a sufficient supply of parking spaces between the subject
properties. In addition, the revised Site and Landscape Plan allocates the appropriate number
of off-street parking spaces for each use as required by Section 12-9-7 of the Zoning
Ordinance. To ensure these spaces remain available for the specific uses intended, staff have
added a condition requiring the petitioner to add permanent, standard parking signs
identifying the use in which the individual spaces are allocated and enforce the use of parking
spaces on the subject properties at all times.
Aerial photos and the Site and Context Photos indicate that both uses are currently storing a
combination of vehicles, equipment, and products outside on both properties. In addition,
shipping containers have been installed on the subject property for additional storage space
outside of the existing building, which is not expressly allowed. However, the Zoning
Ordinance does provide a specific consideration for trade contractor uses. Since the
Advanced Roofing and Landscaping by AD businesses meet the definition of a trade
contractor, Section 12-7-3.F.5.d provides both with allowances for outdoor display and
storage of finished or prefabricated products (i.e., products ready for sale to an end user) with
some restrictions:
• Products may not be stored or displayed outdoors within any required yard (i.e.,
front, rear, or side yards).
• Products must be fully screened with an eight -foot -tall, solid, opaque fence.
• Raw or landscape materials, or materials utilized for the manufacturing, processing
or assembly of products, are not permitted to be stored or displayed outdoors.
Page 12 of 19
4n12025
• Products, either cumulatively or individually, and including the racks or structures
used to display the products outdoors, may not exceed eight feet in height.
• Products stored or displayed outdoors must be located on a paved, dust -free hard
surface; provided, however, products and associated storage racks may not reduce,
block, or otherwise interfere with parking lot drive aisles and off-street parking
spaces.
With these regulations in mind, staff have added a separate condition requiring compliance
with all of the regulations in Section 12-7-3.F.5.d of the Zoning Ordinance, the replacement
of the storage containers with an approved accessory structure, and the removal of any stored
materials from a portion of the rear yard in an effort to alleviate concerns and complaints
from the neighboring residents to the south. The petitioner representing the Advanced
Roofing trade contractor use is proposing to display and store finished products in the
required rear yard in violation of Section 12-7- 3.F.5.d(1) of the Zoning Ordinance, requiring
a separate major variation request.
The existing site contains some natural vegetation along its south boundary and minimal
landscape improvements along the site's frontage. Given that the subject properties directly
abut residential properties to the south, a landscape buffer is required in conformance with
Section 12-10-9 in the Zoning Ordinance. A C-3-zoned property abutting a residential
district or use must provide a minimum five -foot -wide landscape buffer containing shade
trees planted every 30 feet, a solid eight -foot -tall fence, and turf or other ground cover along
100 percent of the property boundaries that abut the residential district. Since the original
application, the petitioners have installed some landscape buffers along the front of the site
on each property as shown in light green on the attached Site and Landscape Plan. However,
staff have added a condition requiring all landscaping improvements to be installed in
accordance with Chapter 10 Landscaping and Screening of the Zoning Ordinance.
As discussed in the Outdoor Display and Storage of Products section above, trade contractor
uses in the C-3 district have the ability to display and store finished products outside provided
they comply with the regulations listed. The petitioner representing the Advanced Roofing
trade contractor use has noted that they will comply with all requirements listed with the
exception of the first regulation —prohibiting the display and storage of finished products in
a required yard —resulting in a separate major variation request.
The rear of the subject properties directly abuts an R-1 Single Family Residential district so
the rear yard setback for the subject properties matches the required 25-foot rear yard setback
for the R-1 district. As noted on the attached ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, the existing
two-story commercial building at the rear of the subject properties is currently setback 23 to
24 feet, which given the required 25-foot-rear-yard, would prohibit the display and storage
of finished products for the entire paved area located behind the existing commercial
building. As such, the petitioner requests a major variation to allow this rear yard area to be
utilized for the display and storage of finished products related to the Advanced Roofing
business.
In its review of this request, the PZB and City Council may consider:
1. The rationale behind the prohibition of this type of use in the rear yard, especially
when abutting residential uses, to minimize the adverse effects on neighboring
properties;
2. The installation of an eight -foot -tall solid fence along this rear property line and the
displayed and stored products limited to eight feet in height, therefore addressing
some of the concerns; and
3. The installation of additional landscaping along this area may be necessary to further
reduce impacts on neighboring properties.
Page 13 of 19 4/7/2025
There are alternatives to the requested variation that would allow the Advanced Roofing
business the ability to display and store finished products at 975 Rand Road while reducing
adverse effects on neighboring residents:
1. Reconfigure Existing Outdoor Storage Area: A simpler and more cost-effective
alternative is to redesign and shape the current outdoor storage area to fit within the
buildable area of the lot while still providing room for customer viewing and
retrieval of finished products for jobs. Even with the required screening
requirements, this option could save some cost to the petitioner while still aligning
with the location and screening requirements for outdoor display and storage of
finished products.
2. Construct Up To Two Accessory Structures: Pursuant to Section 12-8- LC of the
Zoning Ordinance, each property is permitted up to two accessory structures, which
can consist of either: (i) a single detached garage structure and one other accessory
structure (e.g., sheds, gazebos, and pergolas); or (ii) two accessory structures without
a detached garage as illustrated in the table. These structures would be allowed in
the rear yard and could be utilized to address the petitioner's storage needs.
3. Construct a Building Addition: An addition to the existing commercial building
could house the finished products for both display to customers and storage for jobs.
While more costly this would negate the need for the requested variation.
The PZB voted 5-0 to recommend that City Council approve the conditional use and major
variation requests with the staff recommended conditions:
1. Prior to obtaining a business registration from the City for Landscaping by AD, the
curb cut and driveway at 975 Rand Road must either be widened to 22 feet in width,
in accordance with Section 12- 9-6 of the Zoning Ordinance, to accommodate two-
way travel or it must be designated as a one-way with clear signage indicating the
vehicular circulation throughout the entire Subject Property.
2. The Petitioners must restripe the parking areas on the Subject Property in accordance
with the Site Plan. Standard parking signs must be installed identifying the use for
which the spaces are allocated and enforcing the use of the correct parking spaces
by each Proposed Use's employees and invitees on the Subject Property at all times.
3. Outdoor display and storage on the Subject Property must comply with all
regulations set forth in Section 12-7-3.F.5.d of the Zoning Ordinance at all times,
except for the Proposed Outdoor Display and Storage in the required rear yard of the
property at 975 Rand Road as authorized by this Ordinance. Any products, materials,
and items not classified as prefabricated or finished products must be stored inside
the principal building or in an approved accessory structure on the Subject Property.
4. All shipping containers must be removed from the Subject Property prior to either
of the Proposed Uses obtaining a business registration. All accessory structures must
be constructed or installed pursuant to a building permit issued by the City.
5. All other landscaping improvements must be installed in compliance with Chapter
10 Landscaping and Screening of the Zoning Ordinance prior to the issuance of a
business registration from the City for Landscaping by AD. The landscape plan shall
detail the location, design, and height of the required enclosure for dumpsters stored
outside.
6. In order to allow for coordination between the Petitioners, Owner, and the owner of
the property adjacent to the Subject Property regarding landscaping, easements, and
the sale of certain property, the Petitioners may delay the installation of the
following portions of fence depicted on the Site Plan for up to one year after the
issuance of a fence permit for the fence: (i) the portion of the fence extending north
15 feet from the southwest corner of the Subject Property; and (ii) the portion of the
fence extending 60 feet east from the southwest corner of the Subject Property.
7. Waste, debris, and other garbage accumulated through off -site operations for both
Proposed Uses must be completely discarded prior to returning to the Subject
Page 14 of 19
4n12025
Properties each day. At no time may waste, debris, and garbage be left outside on
the Subject Properties, except in designated dumpster containers.
Advanced to second reading by Smith, seconded by Sayad, to Adopt the Ordinance Z-8-25,
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS FOR TRADE
CONTRACTOR USES AND MAJOR VARIATION FOR OUTDOOR DISPLAY AND
STORAGE OF FINISHED PRODUCTS AT 965 AND 975 RAND ROAD, DES PLAINES,
ILLINOIS. (Case #25-003-CU-V).
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
CONSIDER Mayor Goczkowski stated that the item has been withdrawn by applicant.
APPROVING A BUS
ASSIST GRANT Without objection, the City Council moved on to New Business.
(GROWTH) FOR
CHARCOAL DELIGHTS
AT 1090
E OAKTON ST
Resolution
R-60-25
NEW BUSINESS
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION — Alderman Sayad, Chair
WARRANT Alderman Sayad presented the Warrant Register.
REGISTER
Resolution Moved by Sayad, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve the Warrant Register of
R-70-25 April 7, 2025, in the Amount of $4,061,579.47 and Approve Resolution R-70-25.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
Alderman Sayad stated the fund balance as of February 28' is $13,825,484.00.
CONSIDER Director of Finance Podbial reviewed a memorandum dated March 24, 2025.
IMPLEMENTING A
MUNICIPAL GROCERY The City Council considered Ordinance M-8-25, which proposes continuing the City's
RETAILERS' existing grocery retailers' occupation tax and municipal grocery service occupation tax to
OCCUPATION TAX maintain a consistent funding stream.
AND A MUNICIPAL
GROCERY SERVICE Recent changes enacted by the State of Illinois will phase out the state -level grocery tax,
OCCUPATION TAX with the phase -out period concluding on January 1, 2026. If municipalities do not take steps
Ordinance to maintain their local grocery tax structure by October 1, 2025, they will lose this revenue
M-8-25 source entirely. This would mean a projected annual General Fund revenue loss of
$1,431,149 for Des Plaines.
Page 15 of 19 4/7/2025
The ordinance aligns with actions taken by neighboring municipalities; a survey of northwest
suburban communities reveals that 14 municipalities have passed or are considering
maintaining a similar grocery tax. Some municipalities that have already implemented such
measures include Palatine, Wheeling, and Hoffinan Estates. The same grocery items
currently taxed under the state's grocery tax would continue to be taxed locally. No new
items would be added to the tax base, meaning residents would not have an increased tax
burden. If Ordinance M-8-25 is passed by the City Council, the Illinois Department of
Revenue will continue to collect and distribute the local grocery tax revenue to the City in
the same manner as the current state grocery tax. No additional fees or administrative costs
would be incurred by the City or consumers for this service.
Replacing the grocery tax revenue with a property tax increase would shift the financial
burden to residents and necessitate a 5.67% increase in the overall property tax levy. City
staff analyzed additional alternative means to replace this revenue, but those means would
require legal processes and administrative procedures.
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Ordinance M-8-25, to maintain the current
grocery retailers' occupation tax and municipal grocery service occupation tax.
Alderman Walsten asked Director of Finance Podbial what the percentage of the tax will be,
and then he stated he is willing to pay it.
Alderman Brookman stated the compared communities are not an accurate reflection since
they do not receive the casino revenue that Des Plaines receives. She stated that due to
legislative changes, Des Plaines will be receiving an increased revenue in the total amount
of $15 million. She stated that even though the casino revenue does not go into the general
fund, it relieves the fund because it covers expenses that would otherwise have to be covered
by the general fund.
Alderman Brookman mentioned with the state phasing out the state level grocery tax, and
the City phasing out the local tax, there would be no state or local tax on groceries which
would be incredible for the residents. She stated with the annual casino revenue, the City can
afford to help the residents by eliminating the grocery tax.
Alderman Brookman mentioned that the City is forgiving $1.2 million the second 1575
Ellinwood Street turns the key, and that it is time the City thinks about their residents.
Alderman Sayad mentioned that the City should think about if they did not get the casino
revenue, and that this tax is just a lateral change.
Alderman Charewicz stated the tax is one that the state was collecting, but now the City will
be collecting. He also stated the City could use the $1.4 million in some format. He stated
he sees it also as a tourist tax for when someone comes in to buy wine or a gift for someone
in Des Plaines.
Alderman Brookman stated she asked City Manager Wisniewski to look up the last time the
City raised property taxes.
Alderman Brookman mentioned a loan is a debit, Alderman Sayad disagreed, and Alderman
Charewicz said a loan is a liability -a plus.
City Manager Wisniewski gave a summary of the average property tax levy increases.
Page 16 of 19 4n12025
Jim Brookman stated with the City trying to eliminate the revenue sharing on the casino, that
will significantly increase the revenue to the City. He asked City Manager Wisniewski for
an estimate on the increase in revenue if the revenue sharing is eliminated.
City Manager Wisniewski stated the estimate between current through 2040 was around
$69 million.
Jim Brookman asked if there ever would come a point where the City is willing to eliminate
a tax without imposing a new tax. He stated the point he is making is there should come a
point where the City has enough revenue where the City Council can say the City can afford
to give the residents a break, and he thinks the City can afford it now.
Resident Patty Gomez stated she wants to pay the tax because she does not want to worry
about the City running out of money in a couple years. She also mentioned there are many
elderly who are barely making it that could lose their homes, and that could eventually be
her. She further mentioned she supports a tax if it keeps the other taxes down.
Resident Donald Descamps the City should focus on cutting expenses, rather than just
spending.
Alderman Sayad said the suppliers have raised their prices.
Resident Donald Descamps states there should be demands on the City Manager and the
Director of Finance to negotiate to get price cuts.
Resident Andrew stated he agrees with the grocery tax, and he does not want to see the
property taxes raised.
Moved by Charewicz, seconded by Smith, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance M-8-25,
AN ORDINANCE IMPLEMENTING A MUNICIPAL GROCERY RETAILERS'
OCCUPATION TAX AND A MUNICIPAL GROCERY SERVICE OCCUPATION TAX.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 7 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 1 - Brookman
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
LEGAL & LICENSING — Alderman Brookman, Chair
CONSIDER
Consideration of an Amendment to City Manager Dorothy Wisniewski's Employment
APPROVING A BONUS
Agreement. Wisniewski was appointed City Manager on April 1, 2024, after serving in the
AND FIRST AMEND TO
City's Finance Department since 2007 and as Assistant City Manager/Finance Director since
THE CITY MGR EMP
2014. As part of the annual evaluation process, the City Council holds a meeting with the
AGRMT BTW THE CITY
City Manager to discuss accomplishments from the prior year in alignment with the City
AND DOROTA
Council's strategic plan. The evaluation was held in an executive session on March 17, 2025.
(DOROTHY)
WISNIEWSKI
City Manager Wisniewski spoke on her own behalf.
Resolution
R-72-25
Alderman Sayad praised City Manager Wisniewski.
Alderman Walsten asked about the vehicle allowance, and he recommended purchasing a
City vehicle rather than the vehicle allowance.
Page 17 of 19 4/7/2025
City Manager Wisniewski stated consistent with the other community salary comparisons,
most if not all other communities provide the City Manager with a vehicle allowance as
opposed to a City vehicle.
Mayor Goczkowski praised City Manager Wisniewski.
Alderman Lysakowski stated he would like to get a consensus from the City Council for staff
to draw up a position of Assistant City Manager or start looking in that direction.
Resident Donald Descamps asked how City Manager Wisniewski is doing financially for the
City. He also mentioned his concerns with the pension fund being unfunded, and how the
City is losing out on millions of dollars.
City Clerk Mastalski stated she would like to make a public comment.
City Clerk Mastalski addressed that during 2016-2021 while Dorothy Wisniewski was the
Director of Finance, and the issue still remains, that the credit union payroll was paid by the
City of Des Plaines without City Council approval but was still done under Dorothy
Wisniewski's direction. City Clerk Mastalski also stated there is a question of what happened
to the payroll amount of at least $1.5 million during that timeframe with possibly a timeframe
and additional funds extended beyond those years.
City Clerk Mastalski stated the fact that the issues in connection with the credit union and at
the direction of Dorothy Wisniewski have not been acknowledged, addressed, or accounted
for, this should be kept in mind during the consideration of this resolution.
Alderman Lysakowski asked what about the piece that he asked about consensus to get staff.
Alderman Brookman stated that is a separate issue, and he could bring it back at a subsequent
meeting since it is not on the table this evening for discussion.
Moved by Sayad, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-72-25, APPROVING A
BONUS AND FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE CITY MANAGER EMPLOYMENT
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF DES PLAINES AND DOROTA (DOROTHY)
WISNIEWSKI.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
CONSIDER
At the request of Aldermen Lysakowski, Moylan, and Oskerka, prepared Ordinance for
AMENDING SEC 1-7-5
Council consideration is amending the City Code to adjust the salaries of all City elected
OF THE CITY CODE TO
officials — the Mayor, the Aldermen, and the City Clerk.
ADJUST THE
COMPENSATION OF
As directed, under the Ordinance, the Mayor's new annual salary will be $30,000.00, the
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Aldermen's new annual salaries will be $15,000.00, and the Clerk's new annual salary will
Ordinance
be $12,000.00. Under the proposed Ordinance, these salaries, once they take effect, will
M-10-25
automatically adjust annually by two percent. Further, once the new salaries take effect, the
existing provisions in the Code related to expense reimbursements for the Mayor and
Aldermen will be terminated.
Under Illinois law, changes in compensation cannot take effect during the existing term of
any current elected official. Article VII, §9(b), of the Illinois Constitution; 65 ILCS 5/3.1-
Page 18 of 19 4/7/2025
50-5, et seq. Further, salaries for elective offices must be fixed at least 180 days before a
general election at which voting is held for those offices. 65 ILCS 5/3.1-50-10. Under these
rules, the soonest the salary adjustments could go into effect for all elected officials so that
the adjustments would commence for all elected officials at the same time is following the
consolidated elections in 2029.
Alderman Brookman questioned why the comparables to other communities were not
included with the ordinance information. She stated that she believes the comparables to
other communities would not support a salary increase of the size that is proposed. She stated
that the comparables are needed before salary increases can be considered.
Alderman Brookman also mentioned contradictions with the ordinance to Illinois law, such
as the changes in compensation cannot take effect during the existing term of any current
elected official, and with the automatic 2% increase, a never-ending contract is not legal.
General Counsel Friedman stated that this is a code amendment not a contract, and it is
memorialized in the municipal code so provisions do not have to have an end date. He stated
it is perfectly legal for the City Council to request to authorize the annual 2% increase as
long as those do not change after they are put into the municipal code. He further stated the
net 2% increase does not constitute the type of annual salary change that is prohibited under
article 7.
Alderman Walsten stated that no one sitting up here will get a penny increase in
compensation, and that they are not giving themselves a pay increase.
Alderman Moylan stated the thought behind the 2% increase is not let so much time to span
before some aldermen may have the courage to make a vote on this. He also stated that no
one here will benefit from increasing the pay. Alderman Moylan addressed that he does not
take advantage of the health insurance benefit; he did not address the additional
compensation he receives for not taking the health insurance. He stated that with increasing
the compensation more people will run.
Alderman Charewicz stated he also sees the need to increase the salaries to encourage
qualified applicants, but he thinks this is a big jump without comparables. He also brought
up looking at health insurance as a benefits package. He stated he would like to defer to get
more information.
Alderman Brookman stated that these positions are supposed to be volunteer, and that she
hopes that by Alderman Moylan and Alderman Charewicz stating the increase will get more
qualified individuals to run, they are not implying that historically the City has not gotten
qualified applicants in the past.
Alderman Sayad stated that this can be passed on first reading tonight, and the staff can come
back with comparisons before second reading.
Moved by Brookman, no second, to Defer Ordinance M-10-25 until after the swearing in of
the new aldermen, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1-7-5 OF THE CITY CODE
TO ADJUST THE COMPENSATION OF ELECTED OFFICIALS.
Motion failed.
Alderman Oskerka stated Joanne Mendoza sent an email with comparables as a periodic
update.
Alderman Brookman stated it should have been included in the City Council meeting packet
as supplemental documentation.
Page 19 of 19 4/7/2025
Alderman Brookman questioned City Manager Wisniewski about the insurance premiums
for the officials, and stated that has to be taken into account when considering compensation.
Moved by Sayad, seconded by Lysakowski, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance
M-10-25 with the understanding staff will provide comparisons, AN ORDINANCE
AMENDING SECTION 1-7-5 OF THE CITY CODE TO ADJUST THE
COMPENSATION OF ELECTED OFFICIALS.
No Vote.
Resident George Carrera expressed his support for the compensation increase.
Moved by Charewicz, seconded by Brookman, a substitute motion to Defer First Reading of
Ordinance M-10-25 to the next City Council meeting, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
SECTION 1-7-5 OF THE CITY CODE TO ADJUST THE COMPENSATION OF
ELECTED OFFICIALS.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 3 - Brookman, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 5 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka,
Sayad, Walsten
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion failed.
Moved by Sayad, seconded by Lysakowski, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance
M-10-25 with the understanding staff will provide comparisons, AN ORDINANCE
AMENDING SECTION 1-7-5 OF THE CITY CODE TO ADJUST THE
COMPENSATION OF ELECTED OFFICIALS.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 5 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka,
Sayad, Walsten
NAYS: 3 - Brookman, Smith, Charewicz
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
ADJOURNMENT Moved by Brookman, seconded by Oskerka, to adjourn the meeting. Upon voice vote,
motion declared carried. The meetine adiourned at 8:29 n.m.
APPROVED BY ME 21st
THIS DAY OF April 2025
Andrew Goczkowski, MAYOR