Council Minutes 04-21-2025MINUTES 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 21, 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 6:30 p.m. in the Eleanor Rohrbach Memorial Council
Chambers, Des Plaines Civic Center on Monday, April 21, 2025.
ROLL CALL Roll call indicated the following Aldermen present: Lysakowski, Oskerka, Sayad, Walsten,
Smith, Charewicz. Absent: Moylan, 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 — Pending Litigation.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 6 - Lysakowski, Oskerka, Sayad,
Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
MAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 2 - Moylan, Brookman
Motion declared unanimously carried.
The City Council recessed at 6:30 p.m.
The City Council reconvened at 7:02 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 Alderman Oskerka.
PROCLAMATION City Clerk Mastalski read a proclamation by Mayor Goczkowski declaring the 21" day of
April 2025, as Des Plaines Youth Commission Volunteers Recognition Day.
Mayor Goczkowski presented the proclamation to members of the Des Plaines Youth
Commission.
Des Plaines Youth Commission Commissioner Mary Dankowski spoke on their programs
and their community involvement.
PUBLIC COMMENT Resident Nancy Burtis expressed concern over speeding cars in her neighborhood and on her
block; she gave an example of cars drag racing on Clark Lane this past January where a car
rolled onto a neighbor's front lawn. She requested an increase in police presence, speed
bumps, or flowerpots in the middle of the street.
Alderman Charewicz stated the drivers will slow down this summer because Clark Lane is
being torn up and rebuilt, but the speeding will probably restart even faster once Clark Lane
repaved.
Resident John Maag asked the City to make the square city block at Graceland Avenue/
Lee Street/Prairie Avenue a park.
Page 2 of 15 4/21/2025
Resident Ahmed Kamil asked for assistance since he keeps receiving tickets on his work
vehicle since his block is residential parking and the vehicle is registered to the company.
He thanked the police and the City Clerk for their assistance.
Police Chief Anderson stated he will follow up with the resident tomorrow.
Resident Ahmed also took a selfie with the elected officials and staff; he said this had never
happened in his original country and he was excited to be here. He expressed excitement
over freedom; everyone was happy to take the picture and clapped.
Resident Jeremy Wooldridge stated he is concerned about ticketing at the Cumberland Metra
Station; he asked the City to consider a monthly pass.
Resident Marian Cosmides recommended Des Plaines follow the concept of little plazas,
pocket parks, and parkway streets surrounded with businesses as in central Mexico.
ALDERMAN Alderman Charewicz stated there will be a free shred event at Village Bank on May 17,'
ANNOUNCEMENTS from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. He also stated the Chamber is hosting their Spring Garden Ball
on April 261, making a remark about all the girls enjoy getting dressed up with all the good
fixings. He stated there will be an 81 ward meeting on June 3' at 7:00 p.m.
Alderman Sayad stated the annual 4' ward meeting will be on April 24t' at 7:00 p.m. at
Golf Road Baptist Church.
Alderman Walsten stated the City has been actively celebrating Earth Month: presenting a
proclamation to Clean Up -Give Back, cleanup of Axehead Lake, and annual plastic bag
drive. He also stated the City will be planting a tree at Devonshire Elementary School on
Arbor Day. He mentioned the police department is participating in the DEA Prescription
Drug Takeback Day on April 26' where residents can bring in any expired, unused or
unneeded medication to the police department for disposal.
MAYORAL Mayor Goczkowski mentioned that earlier this morning five new police officers were sworn
ANNOUNCEMENTS in, by City Clerk Mastalski, and he offered congratulations to joining the department. He
also thanked the members of the Des Plaines Youth Commission for attending tonight's
meeting and stated it was a pleasure to present the proclamation to them.
MANAGER'S REPORT City Manager Wisniewski commented on the procedure for our next City Council meeting
on May 5'. She stated the current members of the City Council will vote on the consent
agenda items, unfinished business, and any new business items. She stated that after
completing those items the City Council will recess, swear in the new members of the City
Council, format committees, and celebrate the service of our outgoing elected officials.
CONSENT AGENDA Resident Phil Schloss requested item #9, Second Reading - Ordinance M-9-25, be removed
from the Consent Agenda.
Mayor Goczkowski asked if there is a motion to establish the Consent Agenda (did not
mention removal of item #9).
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Establish the Consent Agenda.
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.
Page 3 of 15
4/21 /2025
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve the Consent Agenda.
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.
Minutes were approved; Resolutions R-73-25, R-74-25, R-75-25, R-76-25, R-77-25,
R-78-25, R-79-25, R-84-25, R-85-25, R-86-25 were adopted.
City Clerk Mastalski read the item removed from the Consent Agenda.
APPROVE AGRMT/ Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-73-25, A
MAINT LIC PL REC RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH FLOCK GROUP, INC. FOR
SYS/ FLOCK GROUP THE MAINTENANCE OF A LICENSE PLATE RECOGNITION SYSTEM. Motion
declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-73-25
APPROVE COLL BARG Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-74-25, A
AGRMT/ IAFF 4211 RESOLUTION APPROVING A FOUR-YEAR COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
AGREEMENT WITH THE DES PLAINES PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS UNION -
Resolution INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL 4211. Motion declared
R-74-25 carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
AUTH PURCH/ FURN Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-75-25, A
REPL/ HENDRICKSEN RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF PHASE II FURNITURE
REPLACEMENT FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FROM HENDRICKSEN &
Resolution COMPANY, INC. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent
R-75-25 Agenda.
APPROVE CO 1/ LIB
RE -ROOF PROD/
L. MARSHALL
Resolution
R-76-25
APPROVE CONRIB/
PARADE FLOAT/
SISTERS OF THE HOLY
FAMILY OF
NAZARETH
Resolution
R-77-25
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-76-25, A
RESOLUTION APPROVING CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO THE CONTRACT WITH L.
MARSHALL, INC. FOR THE DES PLAINES LIBRARY RE -ROOF PROJECT. Motion
declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-77-25, A
RESOLUTION APPROVING A CONTRIBUTION TO THE SISTERS OF THE HOLY
FAMILY OF NAZARETH 150TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE FLOAT. Motion declared
carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
AUTH PURCH/ AMB Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-78-25, A
UPFITS/ NORTH RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF TWO AMBULANCE UPFITS
CENTRAL EMEG VEH FROM NORTH CENTRAL EMERGENCY VEHICLES, INC. Motion declared carried as
approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-78-25
Page 4 of 15 4/21 /2025
APPROVE TO 6/ Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-79-25, A
EMERG WTR MAIN RESOLUTION APPROVING TASK ORDER NO. 6 WITH JOHN NERI
REP/ JOHN NERI CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC. FOR EMERGENCY WATER MAIN REPAIRS.
Resolution Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
R-79-25
APPROVE & AUTH Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-84-25, A
EXPEND OF FUNDS/ RESOLUTION APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS
IGA & LEG ADV SVCS/ PURSUANT TO A PROPOSAL FROM TAFT STETTINIUS & HOLLISTER LLP FOR
TAFT STETTINIUS & INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY SERVICES. Motion
HOLLISTER declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-84-25
APPROVE & AUTH Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-85-25, A
EXPEND OF FUNDS/ RESOLUTION APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS
IGA & LEG ADV SVCS/ PURSUANT TO A PROPOSAL FROM J ALEXANDER HUNT, INC. FOR
J ALEXANDER HUNT INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY SERVICES. Motion
Resolution declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
R-85-25
APPROVE & AUTH Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-86-25, A
EXPEND OF FUNDS/ RESOLUTION APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS
IGA & LEG ADV SVCS/ PURSUANT TO A PROPOSAL FROM MATTHEW O'SHEA CONSULTING, INC. FOR
MATTHEW O'SHEA INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY SERVICES. Motion
Resolution declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
R-86-25
SECOND READING/ Item # 9 was removed from the Consent Agenda at the request of resident Phil Schloss.
ORDINANCE
M-9-25 Resident Phil Schloss stated that he was here two weeks ago questioning why the City Code
Consent Agenda was being amended to allow someone without an engineering license to be the Director of
Public Works and Engineering. He stated that the City Manager responded that it was
important for more than one person to hold the license; he stated he agrees but questioned
why the director would not be one of those individuals.
Resident Phil Schloss stated the director is being given a position of power, but no
responsibility. He further stated that he thinks the City should not be amending the code to
hire a less qualified person. He stated the City should be adding qualifications to the position,
such as a water operator's license or an arborist certification, to show the knowledge of the
things they will be dealing with on a daily basis. He stated this person will be involved in
things that licensed professionals are involved in, but then questions whether the director or
the professional engineer will ultimately be responsible. He asked the City Council to
consider amending the City Code so that more engineers are hired, not less. He stated that
he does not understand why the City is dumbing down the position of director from where it
has been up until now; that he believes the City should instead be building it up.
Advanced to second reading by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Adopt the 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.
Page 5 of 15 4/21/2025
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.
APPROVE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve the Minutes of the City Council
MINUTES meeting of April 7, 2025, as published. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously
Consent Agenda under Consent Agenda.
APPROVE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve the Closed Session Minutes of the
MINUTES City Council meeting of April 7, 2025, as published. Motion declared carried as approved
Consent Agenda unanimously under Consent Agenda.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Mayor Goczkowski requested Unfinished Business be moved to after New Business.
Without objection, Unfinished Business was moved to after New Business.
NEW BUSINESS
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION — Alderman Sayad, Chair
WARRANT Alderman Sayad presented the Warrant Register.
REGISTER
Resolution Moved by Sayad, seconded by Walsten, to Approve the Warrant Register of
R-80-25 April 21, 2025, in the Amount of $4,422,320.21 and Approve Resolution R-80-25.
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 general fund balance as of the end of February is $13,825,484.00.
CONSIDER AN City Manager Wisniewski reviewed a memorandum dated April 9, 2025.
ORDINANCE OPTING
GOVERNMENT Consideration of Ordinance M-12-25, allowing the Northwest Water Commission (NWC)
ENTITIES OUT OF THE to opt out of the Cook County Paid Leave Ordinance and clarify that all units of local
COOK COUNTY PAID government operating within the City of Des Plaines are similarly exempt under the City's
LEAVE ORDINANCE home rule authority.
Ordinance
M-12-25 In accordance with the City of Des Plaines' home rule authority, the City received a request
from the Northwest Water Commission (NWC) to opt out of the Cook County Paid Leave
Ordinance.
On March 12, 2023, Public Act 102-1143, the Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act, was
signed into law, requiring employers, including municipalities, to adopt paid leave policies
for all employees, with limited exemptions to school districts and park districts.
On November 20, 2023, the City of Des Plaines passed Ordinance M-21-23, implementing
its own paid leave and benefits policy. This ordinance opted the City out of both the Illinois
Paid Leave for All Workers Act and any related mandatory paid leave obligations, except
those required by federal or state laws overriding the City's home rule authority.
Page 6 of 15 4/21 /2025
On December 14, 2023, Cook County passed its own Paid Leave Ordinance, which did not
exempt school districts and park districts as the State of Illinois had. On March 14, 2024,
Cook County amended the ordinance to temporarily exempt school districts and park
districts through the end of 2024.
On December 2, 2024, the City of Des Plaines passed Ordinance M-26-24, opting out of the
Cook County Paid Leave Ordinance the Des Plaines Park District, Elementary School
District No. 62, Elementary District No. 59, Main Township High School District No. 207,
and Oakton College, allowing these units of local government to maintain their existing paid
leave benefits under the City's home rule authority.
On December 16, 2024, the City Council passed Ordinance M-27-24, which allowed the
North Cook Intermediate Service Center (NCISC) to opt out of the Cook County Paid Leave
Ordinance, similarly exercising the City's home rule authority.
On April 2, 2025, the City received a request to extend the opt -out provision to the Northwest
Water Commission (NWC). NWC is a regional water supplier that provides potable Lake
Michigan water to municipalities in the northwest suburbs, including Des Plaines. The City
purchases water from NWC, which complements the City's existing connection to the City
of Chicago's water system. The Ordinance clarifies and affirms that all units of local
government operating within the City are exempt from the Cook County Paid Leave
Ordinance under the City's home rule authority.
Staff recommended that the City Council approve Ordinance M-12-25, allowing NWC, the
School Districts, NCISC, and the Des Plaines Park District, and all units of local government
operating within the City of Des Plaines to opt out of the Cook County Paid Leave Ordinance
under the City's home rule authority.
Moved by Sayad, seconded by Brookman, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance M-12-25,
AN ORDINANCE OPTING GOVERNMENT ENTITIES OUT OF THE COOK COUNTY
PAID LEAVE ORDINANCE.
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.
Advanced to second reading by Sayad, seconded by Brookman, to Adopt the Ordinance
M-12-25, AN ORDINANCE OPTING GOVERNMENT ENTITIES OUT OF THE COOK
COUNTY PAID LEAVE ORDINANCE.
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.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT — Alderman Moylan, Chair
CONSIDER APPRV A Alderman Moylan turned the item over to Director of Community and Economic
COND USE PERM FOR Development Rogers.
AUTO -NATION
Ordinance Mayor Goczkowski stated the application was removed by the applicant.
Z-4-25
Page 7 of 15 4/21 /2025
CONSIDER Director of Community and Economic Development Rogers reviewed a memorandum
APPROVING A COND dated April 10, 2025.
USE PERMIT TO
ALLOW A DRIVE The subject property consists of two separate parcels under common ownership, which are
THROUGH FACILITY both zoned C-3 and addressed 20 W. Golf Road. The 8,592-square-foot subject property is
AT 20 W. GOLF RD developed with a single -tenant commercial building, paved off-street parking areas accessed
Ordinance by two curb cuts off Golf Road, a pole sign, and single -lane accessory drive -through facility.
Z-9-25
A drive -through facility is only allowed as an accessory use to a principal use (e.g., a
restaurant) and cannot be established and operated as the principal use of the property.
The proposal includes the renovation of the existing single -tenant restaurant building into a
two -unit commercial building: the west side to be occupied by a quick service coffee shop,
Scooter's Coffee, with a drive -through facility and the east side to be occupied by a future
commercial tenant.
Contrarily, the existing drive -through facility on the subject property required a conditional
use in order to be installed and utilized on the subject property which is adjacent to residential
uses to the north and west.
Scooter's Coffee would be open from 5 am to 9 pm Sunday through Monday and intends to
utilize the drive -through facility during this time. However, Ordinance Z-4-02 limits the
hours of operation for the drive -through facility from 10 am to 10 pm Monday through
Sunday and requires an amendment to the conditional use in order to extend the drive -
through facility operation hours beyond these previously approved times.
The Architectural Plans include a floor plan of the 2,435-square-foot commercial building,
showing the split of the building between the proposed Scooter's Coffee and the future
commercial tenant. Scooter's Coffee intends to occupy 1,182 square feet or 48.5 percent of
the building, a majority of the floor plan designated for kitchen and drive -through serving
areas. However, an approximate 120-square-foot area off the vestibule is designated for a
point -of -sale and small seating area. The proposed improvements to the east tenant space are
not shown as no user has yet been identified. However, when a future tenant is identified, a
separate building permit will be required to specify the improvements to this space.
Related to the building elevations, the proposal includes aesthetic updates through painting
and the installation of (i) awnings, (ii) accent finishing systems (EIFS) on the upper level of
the building's elevations, and (iii) glazing on the south building elevation. The proposed
changes to the front, street -facing building elevation require the proposal to comply with the
Building Design Standards.
There are currently two curb cuts from Golf Road for the subject property, the westernmost
curb cut with full -access and the easternmost curb cut as a limited right -in -right -out access
given the raised median on Golf Road and left turn lane for northbound Mount Prospect
Road. Given concerns associated with the easternmost curb cut's proximity to the
neighboring convenience mart fueling station entrance and limited access onto and from Golf
Road, staff suggested and the petitioner agreed to remove the easternmost curb cut and
replace it with a turf, parking, and landscaped area. The remaining westernmost curb cut will
be 26 feet wide, which complies with the minimum 22-foot-wide for two-way travel aisles.
Adjustments have been made to the parking area drive aisles, drive -through facility lane, and
drive aisles to ensure compliance. The front parking area drive aisles exceed 22 feet wide
providing motorists sufficient space to park and leave the subject property without traveling
around the building. The drive -through facility lane is 12 feet wide to provide sufficient
space for drive -through queuing and circulation for Scooter's Coffee. A separate one-way
Page 8 of 15 4/21/2025
travel lane around the building is provided to allow garbage trucks access to the existing
dumpster enclosure at the northeast corner of the property as well as an escape lane for
motorists in the drive -through facility lane. While there are some conceivable chokepoints
in front of the building at both the entrance and exit of the drive through facility due to site
constraints, the proposal has maximized the space available to allow for adequate clearances.
Every drive -through facility must provide a minimum of six stacking spaces plus one
stacking space per waiting area provided which do not interfere with the ingress and egress
of the off-street parking provided on site. The Proposed Architectural Site Plan and Details
illustrates that 11 stacking spaces are provided from the entrance to the drive -through lane
to the pick-up window without any direct interference with the off-street parking spaces. In
addition, the Preliminary Traffic Statement identifies that the drive -through configuration is
sufficient for the anticipated queuing volumes.
While the east tenant space use has not been defined, a parking calculation for the proposed
specialty food store —requiring a minimum of one off-street parking space for every 200 feet
of gross floor area —was conducted. Given the small customer area in the front of the
proposed specialty food store, only two off-street parking spaces, including one accessible
space, would be required. However, the Proposed Architectural Site Plan and Details
illustrates a total of 16 off-street parking spaces, including one accessible space, in
compliance with this regulation.
The proposal includes the installation of the following landscape improvements throughout
the subject property to make it more compliant:
• Addition of perimeter parking lot landscaping areas for the entire front off-street
parking lot;
• Addition of interior parking lot landscaping areas up in front of the building and at
the end of all off-street parking rows;
• Landscape buffer areas along the full west and north property lines with fencing and
arborvitae plantings to provide ample screening between the subject property and
the adjacent residences; and
• Replacement of gravel groundcover with wood mulch and natural turf.
The PZB voted 6-0 to recommend that City Council approve the conditional use request with
the staff recommended conditions.
Staff and the PZB recommended the following conditions:
1. The petitioner agrees to maintain the same or fewer hours of operation for the drive -
through facility lane as the coffee shop, not to exceed 5 am to 9 pm, seven days a
week. The petitioner agrees to seek an amended conditional use if the hours of
operation for the drive -through facility are proposed to be extended beyond these
limits.
2. The petitioner must restripe the parking areas of the subject properties in
conformance with the Proposed Architectural Site Plan and Details sheet and add
painted directional arrows throughout the subject property. Ample off-street parking
spaces for both uses shall be provided on site at all times.
3. At time of building permit, the petitioner must provide a photometric plan
identifying the location of all existing and proposed exterior lighting fixtures and
foot-candle measurements for the entire site in conformance with Section 12-12-10
of the Zoning Ordinance. Foot-candle measurements shall also be provided for a
minimum of two rows outside the property boundaries.
4. A sound meter must be installed near the drive -through facility speaker and utilized
at all times to ensure the speaker is not audible outside the boundaries of the subject
property.
Page 9 of 15 4/21/2025
Moved by Sayad, seconded by Oskerka, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance Z-9-25, AN
ORDINANCE APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW A DRIVE
THROUGH FACILITY AT 20 W. GOLF ROAD, DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS (Case #25-
010-CU).
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.
Advanced to second reading by Sayad, seconded by Oskerka, to Adopt the Ordinance
Z-9-25, AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW
A DRIVE THROUGH FACILITY AT 20 W. GOLF ROAD, DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS
(Case #25-010-CU).
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 AMENDING The petitioner, Insight Church, LLC, is the prospective lessee of Suite 202 of 200 Howard
THE TEXT OF THE Ave, a property located in the M-2, General Manufacturing zoning district. This tenant space
ZONING ORD RE ASSY is within a multi -tenant building which has historically included primarily office spaces and
USES IN THE M-2, GEN small warehouses. Insight Church is interested in operating a religious assembly use facility
MFG ZONING DIST within Suite 202 of this building. No proposed expansions or exterior alterations are
Ordinance proposed for the building. All proposed uses will be located inside the building.
Z-11-25
The petitioner has provided a summary of zoning ordinances from six surrounding
municipalities, showing that various assembly uses are permitted in industrial or
manufacturing districts with a special or conditional use. The proximity to O'Hare Airport
and Interstate 90 making Des Plaines' manufacturing -zoned properties are particularly
valuable for import/export operations and for improving employee commutes, expanding the
potential workforce, and making these businesses more attractive to prospective employees.
The PZB voted 5-1 to recommend that City Council approve the Text Amendment request.
The petitioner's attorney, Braeden Lord, spoke on behalf of the petitioner. Additionally, the
petitioners, James and Sharon Ward spoke on their own behalf.
Shannon Westberg, representative of the property owner, spoke on their behalf.
Moved by Charewicz, seconded by Brookman, to Deny Ordinance Z-11-25, AN
ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF THE DES PLAINES ZONING ORDINANCE
REGARDING ASSEMBLY USES IN THE M-2, GENERAL MANUFACTURING
ZONING DISTRICT.
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.
Page 10 of 15 4/21 /2025
CONSIDER APPRV Based on the denial of Ordinance Z-11-25, Ordinance Z-10-25 was not addressed.
COND USE PERM TO
ALLOW AN ASSY USE
AT 200 E HOWARD AVE
Ordinance
Z-10-25
CONSIDER SUPP &
Alderman Moylan stated the petitioner requested the item be deferred to the next meeting.
CONSENT TO THE EXT
OF A COOK CO CL 613
Without objection, Resolution R-82-25 was deferred to the first City Council meeting in
REAL EST INCENT CL
May.
FOR GCB LLC LOC AT
90 RAWLS RD
Resolution
R-82-25
CONSIDER Director of Community and Economic Development Rogers reviewed a memorandum
APPROVING A BUS RET dated April 9, 2025.
OUTREACH PROG IN
PTNRSHP WITH THE The Community & Economic Development Department requests City Council consideration
DPCC&I of a Resolution approving a Business Retention Outreach Program in partnership with the
Resolution Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
R-83-25
In 2024, the City Council adopted the City's 2025 Annual Budget including $65,000 within
the General Fund intended for professional services to be provided by the Des Plaines
Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry has
offered to conduct interviews with local businesses to solicit feedback which can be provided
to the City's Director of Community & Economic Development and Economic Development
Manager for review and analysis. The City would utilize this data to develop and implement
broader programming for business retention efforts including direct outreach & responses to
specific concerns/complaints, improved channels for communication of issues/concerns,
performance benchmarking, and informing other policy decisions relating to the local
business community.
The City has approximately 1,500 registered businesses. In addition to their regular outreach
& subscription efforts, the Chamber of Commerce proposes to sample approximately 20%
of all businesses each year to complete business retention interviews.
The current proposal would involve up to 325 business retention visits/interviews at a rate
of $200 each.
Alderman Smith stated she believes these interviews should all be a personal visit.
Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Alyssa Lombardo spoke on behalf
of the chamber. She thanked the City Council for taking the time to review the proposal. She
also explained the interviews will be conducted via phone, online forms, and in office visits,
with a focus on in office for the businesses that are not members of the chamber. She
expressed concern with having to conduct all of the interviews in person based on the time
restraints and the bandwidth of the chamber.
Moved by Smith, seconded by Lysakowski, to Approve, as amended include language
requiring in -person visits to these businesses, Resolution R-83-25, A RESOLUTION
APPROVING A BUSINESS RETENTION OUTREACH PROGRAM IN PARTNERSHIP
WITH THE DES PLAINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY.
No Vote.
Page 11 of 15 4/21 /2025
Alderman Charewicz stated he does not agree with the stipulation that they must be on -site
visits.
Resident Tom Merlin stated that as a business owner, the preference of most businesses
would be to do an online survey at their leisure rather than scheduling an appointment.
Moved by Charewicz, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Substitute Motion to Approve as
originally drafted without the amendment, Resolution R-83-25, A RESOLUTION
APPROVING A BUSINESS RETENTION OUTREACH PROGRAM IN PARTNERSHIP
WITH THE DES PLAINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY.
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.
COMMUNITY SERVICES — Alderman Smith, Chair
CONSIDER As part of the FY2025 Budget, City Council allocated $250,000.00 for disbursement to
AUTHORIZING THE social service agencies that provide services to Des Plaines residents in need. The Human
DIS OF SOC SVCS Services Division (HS) has solicited and evaluated grant requests from social service
FUNDS TO SOC SVC agencies that serve the Des Plaines community.
AGENCIES
Resolution The 2025 Social Service Funding notification, the application and timeline were made
R-81-25 available on the City's website on January 31, 2025. Applications were due February 28,
2025. HS contacted the agencies that received funding in 2024, those that inquired about the
program throughout the year, as well as those agencies that applied for funding in the past
but did not request funds the prior year. The city received a total request for social service
funding in the amount of $409,763.00 from 42 agencies.
To better understand the needs of the residents seeking referral services through Human
Services (HS), staff tracked and reviewed the calls for service in 2024.
The type of services provided in each referral type are:
• Transportation referrals include local, township and volunteer -based program
options, and PACE /RTA programs.
• Financial Wellness referrals include job services, Illinois Department of Human
Services programs, social security, social service disability insurance, Low Income
Heat and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and Benefit Access/Benefit
Enrollment Programs.
• Housing referrals include nursing home contacts, retirement, supportive living, and
housing choice vouchers, and affordable and shared housing options as well as
homeless shelters.
• Food Resource referrals include community pantries, community lunches and
dinners, food gift certificates, LINK/SNAP (Food Stamps) and holiday programs.
• Health/Wellness referrals include mental health, substance abuse, physical health,
medication disposal, pharmaceutical assistance programs, State Health Insurance
Assistance Program Counseling, case management, handicap placards, benefit
access, well-being checks, friendly visitors, grocery shopping services, and adult day
care.
The Social Service Funding Program utilizes a point system to assist with the ranking
applicants. Currently, there is no set criterion to deny an organization Social Service Program
Page 12 of 15 4/21/2025
Funding aside from the key requirements: the application must be submitted by the deadline,
and the organization must serve Des Plaines residents. If an organization meets at least some
of the criteria, it will receive some level of funding for that year.
To ensure equitable distribution of limited funds, staff determine the value of each rating
point by dividing the total available funding by the total number of points awarded during
the evaluation process. For the 2025 funding cycle, $250,000 was divided by the total
number of points received by the 42 applicant agencies (37,753 points), resulting in a per -
point value of $66.23. No agency received more than the amount they requested. The
remaining funds—$9,728.48—were distributed among agencies providing services in
highest demand, based on 2024 call -for -service referral data. These agencies include: Self -
Help Closet & Pantry (Food), Northwest Compass (Housing), Maryville Academy -Family
Behavioral Health Clinic (Health & Wellness), Main Township Foundation
(Transportation), MaineStay Youth & Family Services (Health & Wellness), Feed My Sheep
(Food), Des Plaines Community Foundation (Health& Wellness), Children Advocacy
Center (Health & Wellness), Center of Concern (Senior Services), and Suburban Primary
Health Care Council (Health & Wellness).
As a result of this process, the recommendation from staff is to fund all 42 community partner
agencies at an amount not -to -exceed $250,000.00.
Mayor Goczkowski asked Community & Police Social Worker Angelika Danek to put
together a proposal for next year's budget to possibly increase the allocated amount for
disbursement to social service agencies.
Moved by Smith, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-81-25, A RESOLUTION
AUTHORIZING THE DISBURSEMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES FUNDS TO SOCIAL
SERVICE AGENCIES.
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.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
CONSIDER IMPL A For the City Council to consider Ordinance M-8-25, which proposes continuing the City's
MUN GROC RTLS' OCC existing grocery retailers' occupation tax and municipal grocery service occupation tax to
TAX AND A MUN GROC maintain a consistent funding stream.
SVC OCC TAX
Ordinance Recent changes enacted by the State of Illinois will phase out the state -level grocery tax,
M-8-25 with the phase -out period concluding on January 1, 2026. If municipalities do not take steps
to maintain their local grocery tax structure by October 1, 2025, they will lose this revenue
source entirely. This would mean a projected annual General Fund revenue loss of
$1,431,149 for Des Plaines.
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
Page 13 of 15 4/21 /2025
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.
Staff recommended that the City Council approve Ordinance M-8-25, to maintain the current
grocery retailers' occupation tax and municipal grocery service occupation tax.
Alderman Brookman stated the City is making a mistake by not repealing the local grocery
tax. She expressed that another tax would not be necessary to make up for the lost revenue
since the City brings in $15 million from the casino. She stated the offset does not have to
be diverted from the casino revenue, it could be allocated from the general fund, but either
way the City has the revenue for the offset. She stated that she believes it just proves that
government can never get enough money to spend, and that government will never give up
the tax once it is imposed. She stated the City is missing a real marketing opportunity if the
City the only municipality in many miles to not charge a grocery tax, and that it would be a
compelling reason to come to Des Plaines. She stated that the other items and products stores
sell would generate additional tax revenue. Alderman Brookman expressed that there is no
hurry to address this matter, and she suggests deferring this issue to give it some more serious
thought before taking final action.
Resident John Maag stated with the City provides millions for commercial investments and
tax relief, the City should cut its budget somewhere else rather than continuing this tax. He
stated the tax relief would greatly benefit the low-income residents.
Resident Deb Lester inquired about the other surrounding municipalities surveyed. She
stated her concern is individuals may prioritize going to other municipalities which are not
reimplementing the grocery tax. She stated the City should go through the budget line item
by line item to see other areas where the City can cut expenses.
Resident A.J. Fallico stated that he hears both sides of the argument. He stated he is
cautiously in favor of this tax, but he would like the City Council to really think about this
money and to use some of it to help subsidize food for the needy.
Alderman Moylan stated most of the surrounding communities reimplemented the tax in
their communities. He also spoke on property tax and casino revenue.
Alderman Oskerka stated he would like to see the City eliminate this tax at the point when
the City is tax free. He also addressed one percent is only one dollar to every hundred dollars.
Advanced to second reading by Charewicz, seconded by Lysakowski, to Adopt the
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
MAYS: 1 - Brookman
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
CONSIDER AMENDING During the discussion of Ordinance M-10-25 at the April 7, 2025 City Council meeting,
THE CITY CODE TO members of the City Council requested that a copy of the survey conducted comparing
ADJUST THE COMP OF elected official compensation and benefits to other communities be included as part of the
ELECTED OFFICIALS packet for Second Reading consideration.
Ordinance
M-10-25 At the request of Aldermen Lysakowski, Moylan, and Oskerka, an Ordinance was prepared
Page 14 of 15 4/21 /2025
for Council consideration, amending the City Code to adjust the salaries of all City elected
officials — the Mayor, the Aldermen, and the City Clerk.
Under the Ordinance, the Mayor's new annual salary will be $30,000.00, the Aldermen's
new annual salaries will be $15,000.00, and the Clerk's new annual salary will be
$12,000.00. Under the proposed Ordinance, these salaries, once they take effect, will
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-
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 513.1-50-10. 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 listed the increases along with the other benefits the elected officials
will receive. She addressed that other aldermen may state that they do not take the health
insurance, but they neglect to say they received generous monetary compensation for not
taking the insurance — from $23,000.00 to $1,300.00. She stated that if the City is to adjust
the compensation of elected officials, it should be done in small increments.
Alderman Charewicz stated that he agrees with Alderman Brookman, that the increases
should be done a little slower. He stated it is important to keep the salaries low to keep it
more of a volunteer position rather than a paid position.
Resident John Maag stated that with the long duration in which the elected officials did not
get a raise, it shows that people want to run for office as a service to their community. He
also addressed that the elected officials receive health insurance. He asked City Manager
Wisniewski which elected officials take the health insurance and asked what it costs the City.
City Manager Wisniewski stated she will try to look that up.
Resident John Maag also asked City Manager Wisniewski if it is true that an elected official
receives monetary compensation if they do not take the insurance.
City Manager Wisniewski stated there is a health opt out component, and she went through
the tiers of compensation.
Resident John Maag stated the health insurance benefit and the opt out compensation should
be considered part of the salary. He stated the raises are too high, He stated all of the current
elected officials are doing it because they want to do it; he stated it is about service.
Resident Marian Cosmides expressed that cost of health insurance should be factored into
the compensation; she stated that including it would put Des Plaines at the top of the
compensation tiers compared to other communities.
Resident Deb Lester stated there is a discrepancy between the 2024 Compensation Report
from September and from December regarding health insurance coverage. She gave
examples that the health insurance employer paid benefit for Alderman Lysakowski was
$62,360.00 and Mayor Goczkowski was $50,000.00; stating that no other employee is
getting that much in health insurance. She stated when she went to the website again,
mysteriously all those numbers have changed to $27,000.00.
Page 15 of 15 4/21 /2025
City Manager Wisniewski stated she would take a look at it, confer with staff, and follow up
with her.
Resident Deb Lester stated all the residents deserve an explanation due to the large
discrepancy.
Advanced to second reading by Moylan, seconded by Lysakowski, to Adopt the Ordinance
M-10-25, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1-7-5 OF THE CITY CODE TO
ADJUST THE COMPENSATION OF ELECTED OFFICIALS.
No Vote.
Moved by Walsten, seconded by Sayad, to call the vote and advance to second reading to
Adopt the Ordinance M-10-25, 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: 6 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka,
Sayad, Walsten, Smith
NAYS: 2 - Brookman, Charewicz
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
ADJOURNMENT Moved by Brookman, seconded by Walsten, to adjourn the meeting. Upon voice vote,
motion declared carried. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
ZessiOMastalski
APPROVED BY ME THIS Sth
DAY OF _ May , 2025
Andrew Goczkowski, MAYOR