CC_2024_03_18_AGENDATHE CITY OF LAKE FOREST
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA Monday,
March 18, 2024, 6:30 p.m.
220 E. Deerpath
Lake Forest, IL 60045
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL 6:30 p.m.
Honorable Mayor, Stanford R. Tack
Nancy Novit, Alderman First Ward Jim Preschlack, Alderman Third Ward
Joseph R. Waldeck, Alderman First Ward Ara Goshgarian, Alderman Third Ward
Edward U. Notz, Jr., Alderman Second Ward Eileen Looby Weber, Alderman Fourth Ward
John Powers, Alderman Second Ward Richard Walther, Alderman Fourth Ward
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS
1.COMMENTS BY MAYOR
A.Lake Forest Day Proclamation “Lake Forest Salutes Our Welcoming Community”
A copy of the Proclamation can be found on page 13
2.COMMENTS BY CITY MANAGER
A.Forest Park Boardwalk Construction Update
-Byron Kutz, P.E., Superintendent of Engineering
3.OPPORTUNITY FOR CITIZENS TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL
4.COMMITTEE REPORTS
5.ITEMS FOR OMNIBUS VOTE CONSIDERATION
1.Approval of March 4, 2024, City Council Meeting Minutes
A copy of the minutes can be found beginning on page 14.
COUNCIL ACTION: Approval of March 4, 2024, City Council Meeting Minutes
2.Annual Vendor Approval for FY2025
STAFF CONTACT: Elizabeth Holleb, Finance Director (847-810-3612)
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
PURPOSE AND ACTION REQUESTED: Staff requests approval of the vendors listed on page 18 for
FY2025.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION: Section 38.37 of the City Code sets forth the authority to approve
other purchases and contracts. On June 15, 2020, the City Council approved revisions to
Chapter 38 of the City Code to increase the Council approval threshold from $20,000 to
$25,000 effective May 1, 2020.
Section 38.37(A) provides that contracts with vendors or other providers delivering supplies or
services on an unspecified but ongoing basis in annual amounts anticipated to exceed
$25,000 shall be presented to the City Council for consideration as part of the review and
approval of the City budget. City staff is seeking approval of FY25 vendors at this time to allow
City operating departments to begin entering FY25 purchase orders on March 31. It should be
noted that payment for FY25 goods/services will not begin until May 1.
The attached list identifies the vendors requested for approval for FY2025, with an indication of
their approvals for FY2022-FY2024, if applicable. The City Council will continue to approve any
single purchase over $25,000 as specified in Chapter 38 of the City Code.
BUDGET/FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of the attached vendor list does not have an immediate
fiscal impact. The amounts designated for each vendor for FY2025 have been included in the
annual budget.
COUNCIL ACTION: Approval of the attached list of vendors (page 18) for Fiscal Year 2025.
3. Approval of a Second Year Renewal with Hoerr Construction, Inc. for the 2024 Sewer
Lining Program, and Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement in the
Amount Not to Exceed $275,000
STAFF CONTACT: Byron Kutz, P.E., Superintendent of Engineering (847-810-3555)
PURPOSE AND ACTION REQUESTED: The Public Works Committee and staff request City Council
approval of the contract for the Lake Forest share of the 2024 Sewer Lining Program to Hoerr
Construction.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION: The City maintains 140 miles of mainline sanitary sewers and 219
miles of storm sewer throughout the City. The pipe material that was predominantly used in the
past to construct the sewers was a clay material. The clay pipes are most susceptible to
deterioration from natural elements and root intrusions resulting in broken pipes and leaking
joints. With a deteriorated pipe, the functionality of the pipe to carry the flows is compromised
thereby creating surcharges and/or backups. This reconstruction technique is performed
without the expensive and disruptive excavation process. The process provides for the insertion
of a special liner inside the pipe, creating a new smooth-surfaced, long-lasting pipe within the
old sewer.
If approved by City Council, the project would commence in late summer/ early fall and be
completed in a few weeks. Upon confirming the start date of the project, a letter will be sent
to the residents within the limits of the project two weeks prior to start of construction. The City’s
website, under “Construction Updates”, will also provide details on the construction schedule.
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
PROJECT REVIEW/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Reviewed Date Comments
Public Works Committee 3/4/2024
Finance Committee 11/13/2023 Included with FY ’25 Capital Plan
BUDGET/FISCAL IMPACT: If approved, this will be the 2nd of 3 option years on this contract. The
2024 contract unit prices will increase 2.1% over last year per the terms of the 2022 contract.
This project was bid under the Municipal Partnering Initiative (MPI) with Highland Park, and
Mundelein, with Lake Forest as the lead agency. The agreement was awarded at the June 6,
2022 City Council meeting and allowed for the contract to be renewed for up to three
additional and consecutive one-year terms, upon the mutual written consent of the City and
Contractor.
Has City staff obtained competitive pricing for proposed goods/services? Yes
Below is a summary of project budget by funding source:
FY 2025 Funding Source
$75,000 $75,000 Y
$200,000 $200,000 Y
Additional Water and Sewer Funds were budgeted this year in order to line the sewer main
through the Deerpath Golf Course which is just downstream from Lake Forest Hospital.
All three communities are recommending extending their portion of the contract to Hoerr
Construction at their respective Council/Board meetings in the next few months. The
contractor has worked in Lake Forest on previous contracts with satisfactory results.
COUNCIL ACTION: Approval of a Second Year Renewal with Hoerr Construction, Inc. for the
2024 Sewer Lining Program, and Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement in the
Amount Not to Exceed $275,000
4. Waive the Bidding Process and Authorize the City Manager to approve used police
vehicle purchases up to a maximum expenditure of $250,000.
STAFF CONTACT: Kevin Zelk, Deputy Chief of Police Administration (847-810-3816)
PURPOSE AND ACTION REQUESTED: Staff requests approval to replace several unmarked police
vehicles through a grant received in the FY24 State of Illinois budget in the amount of $250,000.
In order to purchase quality used vehicles, staff requests the formal bidding process be
waived, and the City Manager be able to approve purchases as opportunities arise. The total
amount of all purchases would not exceed $250,000.
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION: The Lake Forest Police Department was notified by the office of
State Senator Julie Morrison that we had received a $250,000 grant for administrative expenses
associated with public safety. As we assessed the greatest needs of our department, we
believe this grant would be best used to address our aging unmarked vehicle fleet.
The police department has six unmarked vehicles that are used by the investigations and
administrative sections. Most of these vehicles are at or past their expected lifespan. Several
have experienced serious mechanical issues. Traditionally, unmarked vehicles are replaced by
low-mileage patrol vehicles; however, this has not been the case in recent years due to the
turbulent environment in procuring new police vehicles.
If we were to wait to replace our unmarked vehicles through usual City purchasing practices,
we would be in danger of not having enough vehicles to respond to the operational needs of
the department.
BUDGET/FISCAL IMPACT: Unmarked vehicles for investigation and administrative purposes do
not need to meet the strict requirements for patrol use. There currently is a thriving used vehicle
market with several reasonably priced vehicles available.
To make the best use of the grant assistance, buying used vehicles would allow the police to
maintain our operational readiness until traditional police vehicle purchasing normalizes.
Has competitive pricing been obtained for proposed goods/services? No
Staff is requesting a waiver to the bidding process under Administrative Directive 3-5, Section 6.2
– Waiver of Procedures (requires 2/3 vote). Due to the nature of purchasing used vehicles,
dealerships will not “hold” a vehicle while staff engages in the normal purchasing process to
seek City Council approval on a regularly scheduled meeting date.
Staff requests the City Manager authorize purchases not to exceed a total amount of $250,000.
These purchases will be made with the understanding that staff will request all purchases be
ratified at a future City Council meeting.
This project will be funded through the City’s Capital Fund.
311-5003-475-7502
These funds will be reimbursed by the grant managed by the Illinois Department of Commerce
and Economic Opportunity.
COUNCIL ACTION: Waive the Bidding Process and Authorize the City Manager to approve
used police vehicle purchases up to a maximum expenditure of $250,000.
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
5. Approval to Waive the Bid Process and Award a Contract to Northern Divers U.S.A.
for the Water Plant Intake Cleaning Project Included in the FY ’25 Budget, in the
amount of $225,000.
STAFF CONTACT: Dan Martin, Superintendent of Public Works (810-3561)
PURPOSE AND ACTION REQUESTED: The Public Works Committee is recommending City Council
authorization to waive the bid process and award a contract for the FY2025 Water Plant
Intake Cleaning Project to Northern Divers U.S.A. The proposed cleaning process is a patented
system that avoids shutting the plant down during cleaning and does not require removing the
chemical feed system running along the entire length of each intake; saving considerable
time and cost. If approved by City Council this evening, the proposed intake cleaning is
scheduled to commence the first week of May 2024 and should be completed prior to the
high pumpage season.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION: The two intake pipelines deliver raw water from Lake Michigan
into the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) for filtration. The raw water enters the plant by gravity
flow. The 24” intake pipeline was constructed in the 1930’s and is a sand cast iron pipe. The
pipe extends into the lake approximately 2975’ and has three inlets that are in a straight line
with the pipe. The 42” intake pipeline was constructed in 1974 and is a pre-stressed concrete
pipe. The pipe extends into the lake 3900’ and there is a “crow’s foot” at the end. The
“crow’s foot” extends to the north and south and each segment is 50’ long and 36 inches in
diameter. Both pipelines run along the bottom of the lake at an approximate depth of 30 feet.
The last time the entire lengths of both intake lines were cleaned was in 2021 by Northern
Divers U.S.A., a professional diving company with a patented cleaning technology. The
invented process creates a high-pressure vortex using mixed air and water to loosen and
remove the accumulated sediment and debris from inside the 24” and 42” diameter intake
pipelines and expels the sediment back into Lake Michigan. Northern Divers U.S.A. patented
intake cleaning process allows the WTP to stay in operation and can be done without
removing/re-placing the chemical feed system estimated to cost over $350,000. In addition,
this process will improve plant operations, increase capacity, and save operating costs by
reducing backwash cycles and using less chemicals.
The intake pipelines are inspected periodically to be sure there are no major collapses or
broken chlorine lines and to monitor the level of sediment buildup. Prior to the cleaning in
2021 plant staff performed a high flow pumping test on the intake lines to measure
instantaneous turbidity. Test results indicated greater than 100 ntu (nephelometric turbidity
units) within 15 minutes of operation. A similar test performed in the fall of 2023 yielded similar
results. The increased amount of accumulated sediment on the bottom of the intake
becomes a serious issue during peak demand due to the “artificial” turbidity (dirt in the water)
that is created. While the turbidity is high, the backwash frequency can double, increasing
the water volume needed for the backwash by as much as 20%. The increase backwash
cycles cause higher operating costs, a reduction in capacity, and a negative impact on
membrane module lifespan.
Northern Divers used their proprietary system to successfully clean the intakes at the North
Chicago, Abbott Laboratories, Glencoe Water Plant, Waukegan Water Plant, Great Lakes
Naval Base plant and the Thermal Chicago, Inc. water intakes in Chicago. Additional savings
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
may be achieved in future years by coordinating intake cleaning schedules with neighboring
communities, which the City is seeking.
After a thorough review and discussion of the cleaning process, the Public Works Committee
recommended waiving the bid process and moving forward with Northern Divers U.S.A.
PROJECT REVIEW/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Reviewed Date Comments
Public Works Committee 2/20/2024 Review and approved request to
waive the bid process.
BUDGET/FISCAL IMPACT:
Has City staff obtained competitive pricing for proposed goods/services? No
Administrative Directive 3-5, Section 6.2 - Waiver of Procedures (requires 2/3 vote)
The proposal received from Northern Divers U.S.A. in October 2023 to clean the intakes this
spring was $215,000, which is a $30,000 increase from the previous two cleanings done in 2018
and 2021. The reason for the steep increase is similar to what staff has experienced with other
project increases due to higher labor rates, pump system rental rates, equipment mobilization
rates and the diesel fuel to run the six large pumps. For example, approximately 3,000 gallons
of diesel is needed to run the pumps, in 2021 the cost per gallon was $1.49 and in 2024 the
cost is estimated at $4.00/gallon. A day before the Public Works Committee meeting on
February 20, 2024, Northern Divers called informing staff that they had received additional cost
increases of $10,000 from their equipment rental vendors, increasing the total project cost to
$225,000. Northern Divers U.S.A, noted this is the final project cost for the project. The FY25
budget amount will be revised, and the $10,000 overage will be covered by other projects
under budget.
FY2025 Funding Source
$215,000 $225,000 Y
COUNCIL ACTION: Approval to Waive the Bid Process and Award a Contract to Northern
Divers U.S.A. for the Water Plant Intake Cleaning Project Included in in the FY ’25 Budget, in the
amount of $225,000.
6. Consideration of a recommendation from staff to authorize the City Manager to
enter into a contract with Citywide Elevator Inspection Services, Inc.
STAFF CONTACT:
Catherine Czerniak, Director of Community Development (810-3504)
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
PURPOSE AND ACTION REQUESTED: City Council authorization is requested to allow staff to
enter into a new contract for elevator plan review and inspection services. The prior contract
recently ended.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION: The City of Lake Forest, like many other municipalities as well as
the County, contracts with an outside licensed provider for plan review and inspection
services for elevators and other types of conveyance equipment such as dumbwaiters and
escalators, in commercial, institutional and multi-family buildings.
The City has outsourced elevator inspections for many years because the specialized
certifications required to perform elevator services take considerable time to obtain and are
costly to maintain relative to the limited number of these types of plan reviews and inspections
that are needed in our community. Outsourcing elevator related work has proven to be a
cost-effective way to provide these types of services to building and business owners in The
City of Lake Forest.
There are a limited number of certified elevator companies in the area. The City has
contracted with Elevator Inspection Services (EIS) in recent years. Upon the expiration of the
present contract, the City invited bids for services from the current provider as well as all other
interested companies. The proposals received are summarized below. Based on the pricing
offered by Citywide Elevator Inspection Services, Inc., and upon receiving positive references
from other municipalities currently using this company, staff recommends entering into a two
year contract, with the option to renew for two additional one year terms, with Citywide
Elevator Inspection Services Inc.
Citywide Elevator Inspection
Services, Inc.
Plan Review/Inspection: $16.00
Semi – Annual Inspections: $16.00
Elevator Inspection Services, Inc. Annual Inspections: $19.00
Thompson Elevator Inspection
Services, Inc. Annual Inspections: $100.00
BUDGET/FISCAL IMPACTS: All costs for elevator inspections are passed through to the end users,
the building and business owners. A processing fee is added to the consultant’s charges to
cover City costs related to administrative tasks associated with providing this service.
FY2024 Funding Source
$13,000 $13,000 Yes
Has City staff obtained competitive pricing for proposed goods/services? Yes
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
COUNCIL ACTION: If determined to be appropriate by the City Council, direct the City
Manager to enter into a contract with Citywide Elevator Inspection Services, Inc. for ongoing
elevator services.
7. Consideration of Ordinances Approving Recommendations from the Building Review
Board for 1062 Valley Road, 715 Forest Hill Drive, 1360 Everett Road, and 545
Whitehall Lane. (First Reading, and if Desired by the City Council, Final Approval)
STAFF CONTACT: Catherine Czerniak,
Director of Community Development (810-3504)
PURPOSE AND ACTION REQUESTED: The following recommendations from the Building Review Board
are presented to the City Council for consideration along with the Ordinances as part of the
Omnibus Agenda.
BACKGROUND: 1062 Valley Road – The Building Review Board recommended approval of an
Ordinance authorizing a partial second floor addition, a new detached garage, modification of the
site plan to relocate the driveway, and other related alterations. The Board considered the petition
over the course of two meetings and in response to testimony, the site plan was modified to
minimize headlights shining into private spaces of the neighboring home. Neighbors spoke in
support of the proposed updates to the property. This petition was also considered by the Zoning
Board of Appeals with a recommendation in support of approval as detailed in the following
agenda item. (Board vote – 4 to 0)
715 Forest Hill Drive – The Building Review Board recommended approval of an Ordinance for a
second floor addition, expansion of the garage, and related alterations. One neighbor spoke in
opposition to the project expressing concerns about the increased mass of the house as proposed.
The Board noted that no variances are requested and that the proposed expansion of the house is
generally consistent with modifications made to other homes in the neighborhood. The petitioner
responded by lowering the roof of the addition. Several neighbors submitted testimony in support of
the project. (Board vote – 4 to 0)
1360 Everett Road – The Building Review Board recommended approval of an Ordinance
authorizing demolition of the existing residence and garage and approving plans for a replacement
residence and garage. A neighbor asked that careful attention be paid to drainage and use and
maintenance of the shared private road during construction. (Board vote - 4 to 0)
545 Whitehall Lane – The Building Review Board recommended approval of an Ordinance for a new
residence and attached garage on a vacant lot. The President of the Whitehall Meadows’
Homeowners’ Association submitted a letter in support of the project. (Board vote - 4 to 0)
Ordinances approving the petitions as recommended by the Building Review Board, with key
exhibits attached, are included in the Council packet beginning on page 19. The Ordinances,
complete with all exhibits, are available for review in the Community Development Department.
COUNCIL ACTION: If determined to be appropriate by the City Council, waive first reading
and grant final approval of the Ordinances approving the petitions in accordance with the
Building Review Board’s recommendations.
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
8. Consideration of Ordinances Approving Recommendations from the Zoning Board of
Appeals for 1062 Valley Road and 605 College Road. (First Reading, and if Desired
by the City Council, Final Approval)
STAFF CONTACT: Catherine Czerniak,
Director of Community Development (810-3504)
PURPOSE AND ACTION REQUESTED: The following recommendations from the Zoning Board of
Appeals are presented to the City Council for consideration as part of the Omnibus Agenda along
with the associated Ordinances.
BACKGROUND:
1062 Valley Road – The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval of an Ordinance granting
setback variances for an addition and alterations to the residence within the corner side and side
yards. In response to a neighbor’s request, the petitioner confirmed that the addition will not
encroach into the side yard any further than the existing residence. The Building Review Board also
considered this petition recommending approval as detailed in a previous agenda item. (Board
vote: 7-0, approved)
605 College Road – The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval of an Ordinance
granting a variance from the side yard setback to allow enclosure of an open, rear porch and the
addition of a connection between the residence and the detached garage. No testimony was
presented to the Board on this petition. The Historic Preservation Commission also considered this
petition and recommended approval as detailed in the following agenda item. (Board vote: 7-0,
approved)
Ordinances approving variances as recommended by the Zoning Board of Appeals, with key
exhibits attached, are included in the Council packet beginning on page 52. The Ordinances,
complete with all exhibits, are available for review in the Community Development Department.
COUNCIL ACTION: If determined to be appropriate by the City Council, waive first reading
and grant final approval of Ordinances approving variances from zoning setbacks for 1062
Valley Road and 605 College Road in accordance with the Zoning Board of Appeals’
recommendations.
9. Consideration of an Ordinance Approving a Recommendation from the Historic
Preservation Commission Granting a Building Scale Variance and Approving an
Addition and Alterations at 605 College Road. (First Reading and if Desired by the
City Council, Final Approval)
STAFF CONTACT: Catherine Czerniak,
Director of Community Development (810-3504)
PURPOSE AND ACTION REQUESTED: The following recommendation from the Historic Preservation
Commission is presented to the City Council for consideration along with the Ordinance as part of
the Omnibus Agenda.
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
BACKGROUND: 605 College Road – The Commission recommended approval of an
Ordinance granting a building scale variance to allow an open, rear porch to be enclosed
and the addition of an enclosed connection between the residence and detached garage.
Although the Commission has final authority over design related decisions, final approval by
the City Council is required for building scale variances. No public testimony was presented to
the Commission on this petition. This petition was also considered by the Zoning Board of
Appeals with a recommendation in support of approval as detailed in the previous agenda
item. (Approved 6 – 0)
An Ordinance approving a building scale variance for 605 College Road, with key exhibits
attached, is included in the Council packet beginning on page 65. The Ordinance with complete
exhibits is available for review in the Community Development Department.
COUNCIL ACTION: If determined to be appropriate by the City Council, waive first reading
and grant final approval of an Ordinance approving a building scale variance for 605 College
Road as recommended by the Historic Preservation Commission.
COUNCIL ACTION: Approve the (9) nine omnibus items as presented
6. OLD BUSINESS
7. NEW BUSINESS
8. ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ COMMENTS BY COUNCIL MEMBERS
9. ADJOURNMENT
A copy of the Decision Making Parameters is included beginning on page 12 of this packet.
Office of the City Manager March 13, 2024
The City of Lake Forest is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities
Act of 1990. Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require
certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,
or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities, are required
to contact City Manager Jason Wicha, at (847) 234-2600 promptly to allow the City to make
reasonable accommodations for those persons.
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Monday, March 18, 2024, City Council Agenda
11
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THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST
DECISION-MAKING PARAMETERS FOR CITY COUNCIL,
AND APPOINTED BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Adopted June 18, 2018
The City of Lake Forest Mission Statement:
"Be the best-managed, fiscally-responsible and appealing community and promote a community
spirit of trust, respect and citizen involvement. "
The Lake Forest City Council, with the advice and recommendations of its appointed advisory
Boards and Commissions, Lake Forest Citizens, and City Staff, is responsible for policy
formulation and approval. Implementation of adopted strategy, policy, budgets, and other
directives of Council is the responsibility of City Staff, led by the City Manager and Senior
Staff. The Mayor and Aldermen, and appointed members of Boards and Commissions should
address matters in a timely, deliberate, objective and process-driven manner, making decisions
guided by the City of Lake Forest Strategic and Comprehensive Plans, the City's Codes,
policies and procedures, and the following parameters:
. Motions and votes should comprise what is in the best long-term interests of all Lake
Forest citizens, measured in decades, being mindful of proven precedents and new
precedents that may be created.
. All points of view should be listened to and considered in making decisions with the
long-term benefit to Lake Forest's general public welfare being the highest priority.
. Fundmg decisions should support effectiveness and economy in providing services
and programs, while mindful of the number ofcidzens benefittmg from such
expenditures.
. New initiatives should be quantified, qualified, and evaluated for their long-tenn merit
and overall fiscal unpact and other consequences to the community.
. Decision makers should be proactive and timely in addressing sto-ategic planning
initiatives, external forces not under control of the City, and other opportunities and
challenges to the community.
Community trust in, and support of, government is fostered by maintaining the integrity of these
decision-making parameters.
The City of Lake Forest 's Decision-Making Parameters shall be reviewed by the City Council on an
annual basis and shall be included on all agendas of the City Council and Boards and Commissions.
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PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the McKinlock Post 264 of the American Legion has undertaken to provide
appropriate exercises and entertainment in celebration of LAKE FOREST DAY on WEDNESDAY,
AUGUST 7, 2024, with a view to bringing together the people of our City in the furtherance of civic
interest and advancement of community fellowship; and
, the McKinlock Post 264 of the American Legion honors Lake Forest residents, employees,
neighbors and friends by saluting “ Our Welcoming Community” as this year’s Lake Forest Day theme.
that said LAKE FOREST DAY
celebration is declared to be a City Fair and in pursuance thereof, and Tuesday, August 6, 2024, and
Wednesday, August 7, 2024, shall be observed as a holiday in The City of Lake Forest and our people are
urged to forsake their ordinary pursuits and gather in West Park in a spirit of comradeship and good will in
support of the ideals of our City.
Stanford R. Tack, Mayor
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The City of Lake Forest
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Proceedings of the Monday, March 4, 2024
City Council Meeting – City Council Chambers
220 E Deerpath, Lake Forest, IL 60045
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL: Honorable Mayor Tack called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m., and City
Clerk Margaret Boyer called the roll of Council members.
Present: Honorable Mayor Tack, Alderman Novit, Alderman Waldeck, Alderman Notz, Alderman Preschlack,
Alderman Goshgarian, Alderman Weber, and Alderman Walther
Absent: Alderman Powers
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited by all.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS
COMMENTS BY MAYOR
Mayor Tack reported that Public safety is important to Lake Forest residents, affirmed by 95% of Community-
Wide Survey respondents ranking overall safety as a very important factor when choosing to live in Lake
Forest. He noted that the Lake Forest Police Department currently operates out of the Public Safety Building
on Deerpath, which was constructed in the 1960s as a combined facility for the Police and Fire Departments.
He emphasized that the current building is not adequate to meet the space needs of both departments, noting
this issue was identified at the City Council’s Budget Workshop last November.
Mayor Tack encouraged the Council, together with the larger community, to begin to think through how to
provide the facilities necessary to support our police department and make planning for a new police station a
priority. While the City has been aware of the need for a new police station for years, other community needs
were prioritized in recent years such as addressing storm sewer upgrades, improving athletic fields at
Deerpath Community Park, and stabilizing the bluff above the beach.
Unique market conditions make it financially advantageous to begin discussions about a new police station
facility now instead of in the future particularly considering the importance of public safety expressed in the
Community Survey. Mayor Tack continued, noting there are inherent challenges with this type of project,
which include identifying available land or a building that could be adapted to this use. Additionally, it’s
important to ensure that this project is done in a fiscally responsible manner, and once completed, will serve
the community long into the future. More information will be shared with the community as the process
moves forward.
A. Resolution of Appreciation for retiring Battalion Chief, Cory A. Kazimour
Mayor Tack read the resolution and asked for a motion. Photos were taken.
Council Action: Approve the Resolution of Appreciation
Alderman Novit made a motion to approve the resolution of appreciation, seconded by Alderman Preschlack.
Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
B. Resolution of Appreciation for retiring Battalion Chief, Matthew H. Penar
Mayor Tack read the resolution and asked for a motion. Photos were taken.
Council Action: Approve the Resolution of Appreciation
14
Proceedings of the Monday, March 4, 2024
City Council Meeting
Alderman weber made a motion to approve the resolution of appreciation, seconded by Alderman Notz.
Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
COMMENTS BY CITY MANAGER
A. Voting Information
- Margaret Boyer, City Clerk
City Manager Jason Wicha introduced the City Clerk who gave an overview of voting options for both early voting
and election day, noting City Hall is not an election day polling site.
OPPORTUNITY FOR CITIZENS TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL
COMMITTEE REPORTS
ITEMS FOR OMNIBUS VOTE CONSIDERATION
1. Approval of February 20, 2024, City Council Meeting Minutes
2. Approval of the Check Register for the Period of January 27 – February 23, 2024
3. Approval of a Two-Year Contract Extension with Lake Forest Bank and Trust for Banking
Services to June 30, 2026
4. Approval of Design Engineering Services for the Safe Routes to School Project to Gewalt
Hamilton Associates, Inc., and Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement in the
Amount of $42,276 to Include a Contingency in the Amount of $2,724 for a Total Cost of
$45,000
5. Consideration of a Recommendation from the Plan Commission in Support of a Plat of
Condominium for a building under construction at 715/719 McKinley Road. (Approval by
Motion)
6. Consideration of a Recommendation from the Plan Commission in Support of Tentative and
Final Plat Approval of the Eisler Two Lot Subdivision for Property addressed as 195 E.
Onwentsia Road and Approval of an Ordinance Granting a Variance from the Minimum Lot Size
for a Lot in Depth. (Approval by Motion and Waive First Reading and Grant Final approval of
An Ordinance.)
Mayor Tack asked members of the City Council if there were any items that they would like removed or taken
separately. Seeing none, he asked for a motion.
Alderman Notz made a motion to approve the six (6) Omnibus items as presented, seconded by Alderman
Preschlack. The following voted “Aye”: Alderman Novit, Waldeck, Notz, Preschlack, Goshgarian, Weber, and
Walther. The following voted “Nay”: none. 7-Ayes, 0-Nays, motion carried.
Information such as Purpose and Action Requested, Background/Discussion, Budget/Fiscal Impact, Council
Action and a Staff Contact as it relates to the Omnibus items can be found on the agenda.
15
Proceedings of the Monday, March 4, 2024
City Council Meeting
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
1. Consideration of a Recommendation from the Plan Commission in Support of a Special Use
Permit Authorizing a Starbucks with a Drive Through on the Southeast Corner of Waukegan
and Everett Roads. (Waive First Reading and if Desired by the Council, Grant Final Approval of
an Ordinance)
Catherine Czerniak, Director of Community Development reported this is unanimous recommendation from
the Plan Commission in support of a Special Use Permit for a Starbuck’s with a drive through on the north
portion of the vacant parcel located on the southeast corner of Everett and Waukegan Roads. Ms. Czerniak
gave a brief history of previous redevelopment proposals for the site that included most recently, a plan for a
multi-family residential building and a Starbucks which was withdrawn and replaced with the current phased
development proposal.
As noted above, Starbucks was previously presented as part of a larger redevelopment plan for the site. In
response to concerns expressed about the scale and details of the earlier site plan, and to allow development
of the corner with a Starbucks to move forward in the near term, the approvals requested at this time apply
only to the Starbucks. The proposed Starbuck’s will have a double drive through lane to accommodate up to
15 cars. The Code requires drive throughs of any type to be considered through the Special Use Permit
process and the site plan to be evaluated based on the applicable standards and criteria which are detailed in
the Plan Commission’s report. The remainder of the property remains buildable. Future plans for any
development proposed on the south portion of the site will require City review and approval. Approval of the
present request does not provide any certainty of approval of any specific future plan. No subdivision, lot
reconfiguration, or variances are requested at this time.
Ms. Czerniak reviewed the City Council action options for this item.
The City Council and Ms. Czerniak had discussion on the Commission’s expressed enthusiasm for seeing
redevelopment of this site begin and noted that once in place, the Starbuck’s may attract interest and ideas
for a use or uses of an appropriate scale on the remainder of the property, spill over parking, traffic flow,
timeline. Jack Frigo was in the audience and when asked about delivery, he remarked that Starbucks should be
delivered in December. The Council thanked him for working through the City’s processes.
Mayor Tack asked if there was anyone from the public who would like to comment. Seeing none. He asked for
a motion.
COUNCIL ACTION: Waive first reading of an Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit and approving the site
plan for Starbucks on the southeast corner of Everett and Waukegan Roads with a drive through and if
desired by the City Council, grant final approval of the Ordinance.
Alderman Weber made a motion to waive first reading of an Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit and
approving the site plan for Starbucks on the southeast corner of Everett and Waukegan Roads with a drive
through and grant final approval of the Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Walther. The following voted “Aye”:
Alderman Novit, Waldeck, Notz, Preschlack, Goshgarian, Weber, and Walther. The following voted “Nay”:
none. 7-Ayes, 0-Nays, motion carried.
16
Proceedings of the Monday, March 4, 2024
City Council Meeting
ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR COUNCIL DISCUSSION/COMMENTS BY COUNCIL MEMBERS
Alderman Notz commended first responders for their response during recent storms.
Mayor Tack noted there will be no further business following executive session, he then asked for a motion to
adjourn into EXECUTIVE SESSION pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2 (c)(1), Personnel, and (5), Purchase or lease of
real property for the use of the public body, and (6), Disposition of property and the consideration for the
sale or lease of property owned by the Public Body.
Alderman Walther made a motion to adjourn into executive session pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2 (c)(1), Personnel,
and (5), Purchase or lease of real property for the use of the public body, and (6), Disposition of property and
the consideration for the sale or lease of property owned by the Public Body, seconded by Alderman Novit.
The following voted “Aye”: Alderman Novit, Waldeck, Notz, Preschlack, Goshgarian, Weber, and Walther. The
following voted “Nay”: none. 7-Ayes, 0-Nays, motion carried.
Adjournment into Executive Session at 7:11 pm.
Reconvened into Regular Session at 7:51 pm.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business Mayor Tack asked for a motion to adjourn. Alderman Preschlack made a
motion to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Notz. Motion carried unanimously by voice vote at 7:52 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Margaret Boyer, City Clerk
A video of the City Council meeting is available for viewing at the Lake Forest Library and on file in the Clerk’s
office at City Hall. You can also view it on the website by visiting www.cityoflakeforest.com. Click on I Want To,
then click on View, then choose Archived Meetings Videos.
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Approved Approved Approved Proposed
Department Vendor FY2022 FY2023 FY2024 FY2025 Description:
Human Resources Clark Baird Smith 70,000 70,000 70,000 70,000 Professional Services - legal
Police LaLuzerne & Smith 60,000 60,000 70,000 75,000 Professional Services - City Prosecutor
Finance Speer Financial 35,000 35,000 35,000 35,000 Financial Advisory Services
Non-Department North Shore Gas Company 45,000 45,000 59,000 55,000 Utility Services
Non-Department ComEd 75,000 70,000 70,000 65,000 Utility Services
Non-Department AT&T 55,000 55,000 n/a n/a Utility Services
Human Resources IL Dept of Employment Security 87,000 87,000 87,000 75,000 Unemployment insurance
Non-Department Constellation Energy Services 385,000 425,000 473,000 465,000 Utility Services
Human Resources IRMA 1,250,000 1,450,000 1,450,000 1,500,000 Member Contribution and Deductibles
Parks/Recreation NSSRA 300,000 300,000 300,000 320,000 Membership and inclusion services
Cemetery William Blair & Company 30,000 30,000 30,000 60,000 Cemetery investment services
PW/Engineering Wiss Janney Elstner Associates 30,000 Bridge Inspections (previously <$25,000)
Innovation/Tech Comcast of Chicago 33,000 33,000 35,000 35,000 Internet and television services
Innovation/Tech Heartland 30,000 30,000 50,000 50,000 ArcServe and VMWare maint; IT consulting
Public Works Avalon Petroleum
Public Works Gas Depot
Public Works Al Warren Oil Company
Public Works Bell Fuels, Inc 300,000
Public Works Mansfield Oil Company
Public Works Texor Fuel Services
Public Works Conserv FS
City Manager Verizon Wireless 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 Wireless/cellular services - State Bid
3,285,000
Section 38.37(A) of Lake Forest City Code: Vendors or other providers delivering supplies or services on an unspecified but ongoing basis in annual amounts anticipated to be
more than $25,000, such contracts or similar authorizations shall be presented to the City Council for consideration as part of the review and approval of the City's annual
budget. Individual purchases of $25,000 or greater still require specific City Council approval.
The City of Lake Forest
FY2025 City Council Vendor Approvals - March 18, 2024
DRAFT for consideration by City Council on 3/18/24
Fuel - The amount designated is for all associated
purchases over the fiscal year. Price quotes are
obtained with each individual order.
300,000 300,000 300,000
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THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING ARCHITECTURAL AND SITE DESIGN FOR THE
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1062 VALLEY ROAD
WHEREAS, Oona Herghelegiu ("Owner") is the owner of that certain real
property commonly known as 1062 Valley Road, Lake Forest, Illinois and legally
described in Exhibit A, attached hereto ("Property"); and
WHEREAS, the Property is located in the R-2, Single Family Residence Zoning
District; and
WHEREAS, the Owner desires to construct additions and make alterations,
including, but not limited to, a partial second floor addition and a detached
garage, and desires to relocate the driveway ("Improvements") as depicted on
the plans and architectural drawings that are attached hereto as Group Exhibit
B
("Plans"); and
WHEREAS, the Owner submitted an application ("Application") to permit the
construction of the Improvements and was required to present the Plans to the
Building Review Board ("BRB") for its evaluation and recommendation; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to notice duly published, the BRB reviewed and
evaluated the Plans at a public hearing held over the course of two meetings
on December 6, 2023 and February 7, 2023; and WHEREAS, the BRB, having fully heard and having considered the evidence
and testimony by all those attending the public hearing who wished to testify,
made the following findings:
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