VILLAGE OF LINDENHURST
2301 E. SAND LAKE ROAD

REGULAR MEETING OF THE VILLAGE BOARD
AUGUST 27, 2007, 7:00 P.M. MINUTES

   

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mayor Lahr called the Regular Board meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL:  Roll call showed those present were: Mayor Lahr, Trustees Dunham, Marturano, Messmer, Metzelaar, Wayne and Zerba.  Also in attendance were: Administrator Stevens, Attorney Phillips, Police Chief McKeever, Engineer Welsh, Treasurer Art Neubauer and Clerk Patty Chybowski. 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE  

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:  The Regular Meeting minutes of April 9, 2007 and August 13, 2007,  and the Executive Session Meeting minutes of June 25, 2007, July 23, 2007, and August 13, 2007 were presented to the Board for approval.  A motion to approve was made by Trustee Zerba, seconded by Trustee Marturano.

Trustee Marturano noted in the August 13, 2007 minutes, page 2, “Committee & Staff Reports,” that Marturano’s reference to meeting with the Fire Protection District was two weeks ago.

With the above noted change, the minutes were approved.

All were in favor.
Ayes-6
Nays-0

COMMUNICATIONS, COMMITTEE BOARD & STAFF REPORTS:  Administrator Stevens stated that, due to recent rainy weather, there have been inquiries regarding mosquito control in the Village.  Stevens stated that for the last 3-4 years, the Lake County Health Department has targeted disease-carrying mosquitoes; not nuisance control.  As of this date, encephalitis-carrying mosquitoes have not been detected.  Stevens went on to say that, because of the increased level of mosquito activity in this area and the numerous wetlands and forest preserves, the Health Department, along with Lake Villa Township, the Village of Lindenhurst and the Village of Lake Villa are all examining their policy to determine if they will act to address mosquito nuisance control. 

Mayor Lahr stated that many surrounding communities have been hit hard from storms in the last week and that Lindenhurst was approached by the Village of Wilmette requesting Lindenhurst to join other communities in supplying manpower and equipment to assist in their efforts to clean up approximately 1,000 damaged or downed trees.  Lahr commented Wilmette officials stated they would be willing to reimburse the Village, which is appreciated, but that there is a history of Wilmette assisting the Village of Lindenhurst in the past at no cost and it would be appropriate to reciprocate.  It was noted that Wilmette was declared a disaster by the state and that FEMA was evaluating the area to determine if Wilmette would be eligible for federal disaster funds.  Discussion ensued regarding this request.  Administrator Stevens stated he verified with Lindenhurst’s liability carrier that any workers sent would be on the Village payroll and, therefore, covered by the Village liability policy. 

MOTION:  Trustee Dunham made a motion calling for the Village to provide two Street Department staff and one Sewer/Water Department staff, plus equipment, to assist Wilmette, accepting reimbursement from federal disaster funds provided to Wilmette, seconded by Trustee Metzelaar.  Trustee Wayne inquired whether Lindenhurst would be safe from a liability standpoint, and whether other communities have also requested assistance.  Administrator Stevens responded that if Wilmette was paying those employees directly, there would be no issue.  Stevens confirmed that Wilmette was the only call Lindenhurst received requesting assistance.  Attorney Phillips cautioned that if anyone from the Street Department were to be injured while working in Wilmette, they are ultimately Lindenhurst employees.

ON ROLL CALL
Ayes-6 Trustees Dunham, Metzelaar, Wayne, Messmer, Marturano, Zerba
Nays-0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion carried.

Trustee Metzelaar shared that she attended her first SWALCO Meeting on August 23, that it was very informative and that she is looking forward to working on the Committee going forward.  Mayor Lahr thanked resident Carl Norlin for assisting Trustee Metzelaar in getting up-to-speed in her new position.

Trustee Marturano communicated that Lakes Community High School will be having their third homecoming in September and that there is a kick-off parade at 4pm on Saturday, September 8 and that the lineup is at 3pm at Palombi School.

APPOINTMENTS:  Board and Commissions. 

Lakes Commission, Jim Stout:  2 year term 8/27/07 – 4/30/09
Trustee Zerba requested that each Board/Commission position be voted on individually.  Zerba continued that it is important that candidates submit a resume, letter of intent, or background information as part of the process.  Discussion ensued regarding whether the chairpersons of commissions could identify qualified candidates during the interview process.  It was also noted that Lindenhurst is always pleased to have volunteers step forward and give their time and energy to causes for the Village.  Zerba reiterated that, in order to maintain consistency for all candidates, submitting a resume would be desirable.  As a result of discussion, it was determined that the Board would postpone the Lakes Commission appointment until the next Board meeting so that a resume could be submitted and reviewed for candidate Jim Stout.

Plan Commission, David Hartwig: 4 year term 8/27/07– 4/30/11
Trustee Wayne stated David Hartwig is a fine, qualified candidate; however, Wayne relayed he believes there was a more qualified candidate who had expressed interest.  Trustee Dunham commented he believes David Hartwig to be a perfect candidate based on his past experiences on the Village Board of Lake Villa and the Lake Villa Plan Commission.  Trustee Marturano agreed, echoing Dunham’s sentiments.  Trustee Messmer expressed reservations and would not recommend Mr. Hartwig.

MOTION:  Trustee Dunham made a motion recommending David Hartwig for a 4-year term for Plan Commission from 8/27/07 through 4/30/11, seconded by Trustee Marturano.

ON ROLL CALL
Ayes-3 Trustees Dunham, Marturano, Metzelaar
Nays-3 Trustees Wayne, Messmer, Zerba
Aye-1 Mayor Lahr

Mayor Lahr stated the motion carried.

Environmental Activity and Education Commission,
Therese Ask, 3 year term 8/27/07 – 4/30/10
Joyce Dever, 1 year term 8/27/07 – 4/30/08

Trustee Zerba stated Therese Ask is a very qualified, hard working, energetic candidate and would be an asset to this commission. 

MOTION:  Trustee Metzelaar made a motion recommending Therese Ask for a 3 year term 8/27/07 – 4/30/10, seconded by Trustee Dunham.

ON ROLL CALL
Ayes-6 Trustees Metzelaar, Dunham, Marturano, Wayne, Messmer, Zerba
Nays - 0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion Carried.

Trustee Zerba stated Joyce Dever worked very hard for the 50th anniversary celebration last year and would like to be a part of the Environmental Activity and Education Commission. 

MOTION:  Trustee Wayne made a motion recommending Joyce Dever for a 1 year term 8/27/07 – 4/30/08, seconded by Trustee Messmer.

ON ROLL CALL
Ayes-6 Trustees Wayne, Messmer, Metzelaar, Dunham, Marturano, Zerba
Nays - 0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion Carried.

Board of Police and Fire Commissioners, Tom Berger, 3 year term 8/27/07 – 4/30/10

MOTION:  Trustee Messmer made a motion recommending Tom Berger for a 3 year term 8/27/07 – 4/30/10, seconded by Trustee Dunham.

ON ROLL CALL
Ayes-6 Trustees Messmer, Dunham, Marturano, Wayne, Metzelaar, Zerba
Nays - 0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion Carried.

Appointed Positions:

Cindy Spangler, Collector, Deputy Clerk:  8/27/07 – 4/30/08
Jack McKeever, Police Chief: 8/27/07 – 4/30/08
Arthur Neubauer, Treasurer:  8/27/07 – 4/30/08
Jim Stevens, Administrator, Budget Officer:  8/27/07 – 4/30/08
Wes Welsh, Director PW/Engineering:  8/27/07 – 4/30/08

Trustee Zerba inquired as to why Attorney Paul Phillips’ name was not listed.  Mayor Lahr stated she has not had enough time to sit down with the Village Attorney to discuss the role and responsibilities for this position.  Lahr continued this appointment would be tabled for now, clarifying the postponement has nothing to do with performance.

MOTION:  Trustee Wayne made a motion recommending the aforementioned appointed positions, seconded by Trustee Messmer.

ON ROLL CALL
Ayes-6 Trustees Wayne, Messmer, Dunham, Marturano,  Metzelaar, Zerba
Nays - 0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion Carried.

Richard Cohen, Emergency Management Coordinator, 8/27/07 – 4/30/08, leaving the Assistant Emergency Disaster Coordinator position open.

MOTION:  Trustee Dunham made a motion recommending Richard Cohen  8/27/07 – 4/30/08, seconded by Trustee Wayne.

ON ROLL CALL
Ayes-6 Trustees Dunham, Wayne, Messmer, Marturano, Metzelaar, Zerba
Nays - 0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion Carried.

Board Liaison positions:  Designating Chairperson and alternate member to commission.

Human Resources Committee:  Dominic Marturano, Chairperson, Fred Messmer, alternate; one open position remains
Finance Committee
:  Pat Dunham, Chairperson, Tim Wayne, alternate, one open position remains
SWALCO:
  Renee Metzelaar, Chairperson, Fred Messmer, alternate
Park District
:  Tim Wayne, Chairperson, Renee Metzelaar, alternate
Intergovernmenal:
  Pat Dunham, Chairperson, alternate position is open
Plan Commission
:  Dominic Marturano, Chairperson, Carol Zerba, alternate
Lakes Commission
:  Renee Metzelaar, Chairperson, Tim Wayne, alternate
Fire District
:  Fred Messmer, Chairperson, Dominic Marturano, alternate

Trustee Zerba volunteered to participate on the Human Resources Committee.  Trustee Wayne requested Trustee Dunham be the alternate on the Finance Committee, keeping Trustee Wayne as Finance Committee chairperson.  Mayor Lahr stated she would be willing to consider this change and requested time to make a final decision.

Family Fitness Proclamation:  Lake Forest Health & Fitness approached the Village with a proposal calling for September 15 to be designated “Family Fitness Day” in Lindenhurst, and presented a proclamation in support thereof.  On September 15, Lake Forest Health & Fitness will be promoting family fitness.  Trustee Dunham commended the effort of Lake Forest Health & Fitness in focusing on the health of our kids.

MOTION:  Trustee Dunham made a motion accepting the proclamation, seconded by Trustee Marturano.  Upon a voice vote, the motion carried.

District 41 Facilities Planning Committee:  Mayor Lahr suggested that any Board member wishing to be part of the District 41 Facilities Planning Committee should communicate.  Administrator Stevens said the Committee would meet 4-5 times from now until the first of the year, and the goal is to develop future facilities planning for the district.  Trustee Zerba announced she would be happy to be a part of this Committee.  Trustee Wayne stated he would be an alternate.  Stevens directed Zerba to contact Dr. Van Pelt as soon as possible.

Carl Norlin:  523 Hillcrest Lane, communicated that Trustee Metzelaar’s appointment as a Director of SWALCO, while not requiring formal board action, needs to be backed up with a resolution sent to SWALCO.  Administrator Stevens stated he would have the resolution prepared to pass at the next Board meeting.  Additionally, Norlin suggested it might be a good idea to provide an additional backup.  Mayor Lahr summarized that Trustees Metzelaar and Messmer are in place and, if necessary, she could attend as a back-up.

NEW BUSINESS
A.  Ordinance:  Landmark Homes/Providence Ridge Subdivision; Request to Amend Fencing Covenants and Restrictions

Resident Jeff Mitchell, 177 Robincrest Lane, is requesting the Board to approve a First Amendment of Declaration of Covenants, changing the type of fencing allowed from board on board cedar to black ornamental metal.  Trustee Zerba confirmed the diagram in the Board packet was the desired choice.  Mayor Lahr thanked Mitchell for all that was done to get to one choice. 

Ordinance # 07-8-1646

MOTION:  Trustee Zerba made a motion approving the 1st amendment of covenants, seconded by Trustee Metzelaar.

ON ROLL CALL:
Ayes-6 Trustees Zerba, Metzelaar, Wayne, Messmer, Dunham, Marturano,
Nays - 0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion Carried.

Attorney Phillips requested Mr. Mitchell provide a recorded copy of the document once it has been recorded with the County.  Trustees Wayne and Zerba expressed appreciation that the homeowners were able to select one design that everyone found acceptable.

B.  Greater Lindenhurst/Lake Villa Fine Arts Council/Request for funding

Resident student Wendy Tumminello, 2123 Woodlane Drive, a senior at Lakes Community High School (LCHS), has been involved in the fine arts program in our community for years.  Ms. Tumminello made a presentation on behalf of the LCHS fine arts programs requesting seed money for the First Annual Fine Arts Festival:  “Taste of the Town,” to be held in October.  The mission statement of the student group is to expose the community to the fine arts, encouraging public involvement, as well as promoting the growth of fine arts in our schools and community.

Resident Ronald Tumminello, 2123 Woodlane Drive, a member of both the Greater Lindenhurst/Lake Villa Fine arts Council and Friends of the Arts, a parent fundraiser group at LCHS, stated he is assisting with the fundraising effort.  Mr. Tumminello further stated that 25% of enrolled LCHS students are involved in some way in the fine arts programs and that an investment ensures the future of fine arts in the community schools. 

(Ms. Tumminello presented Carnival of Venice  on her soprano saxophone.)

Mayor Lahr stated she could clearly see all of the time and effort put into this program and the nice job presenting.  Discussion took place by the Board about details of the event, as well as the budgetary source of any potential donation.  Administrator Stevens suggested a good way to proceed might be to tie any donation to a designated broader cause, such as fine arts, as opposed to a specific group.  Stevens added that for now, there is a small budget available, but in the future, since Lindenhurst would always want to support fine arts, the Board may want to budget more money. 

Resident David Hartwig, 1816 Skyline Circle, stated he was a  founding member of the Greater Lindenhurst / Lake Villa Fine Arts Council and thinks this is a very good project and that the talent, maturity and skills of these young people is wonderful.  Mr. Hartwig continued that one-half of any profit from “Taste of the Town” would go to the school and the other half would go to the greater fine arts, but the seed money would always be there. 

Mayor Lahr asked for a suggestion for a donation amount.  Trustee Zerba suggested $250; Trustee Marturano suggested $500, stating the benefit to the community is great.  Trustee Zerba inquired as to whether Lake Villa and the Township have been approached for a donation.  Mr. Tumminello responded they have approached the library, they will be presenting to the Lions Club soon, Village of Lake Villa, Kiwanis Club and the Chamber of Commerce. 

MOTION:  Trustee Marturano made a motion to support the Fine Arts Council and their Request for $500, seconded by Trustee Dunham.

ON ROLL CALL
Ayes-6 Trustees Marturano, Dunham, Zerba, Metzelaar, Wayne, Messmer
Nays - 0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion Carried.

Trustee Wayne suggested that, going forward, the Board compile a list of principles to provide guidance for evaluating proposals such as this one.  Administrator Stevens stated this could be something we could discuss at budget time.

C.  Lake Villa Historical Society:  Request to Place Signs.  Mayor Lahr communicated the Village received information from the Lake Villa Historical Society stating the Civil War Encampment will be held on September 15 and 16 and they are looking for consent to post signs on private property in the Village of Lindenhurst from September 3 – September 17. 

After discussion it was concluded that 2’ x 2’ signs could be posted, not to exceed a total of ten (10) signs.

MOTION:  Trustee Dunham made a motion to allow the Lake Villa Historical Society to post no more than 10 signs for the Civil War Encampment event, seconded by Trustee Wayne.

Upon a voice vote, the motion carried.

D.  Lake Forest Health & Fitness Institute:  Request to Place Signs for Family Fitness Day on September 15.  After discussion, it was decided the number of signs should not exceed ten (10) 2’ x 2’ signs, or four (4) larger signs and that the Village Administrator would use discretion to approve size and location of placement.

MOTION:  Trustee Wayne made a motion allowing Lake Forest Health & Fitness to place signs for Family Fitness Day, seconded by Trustee Messmer.  Upon a voice vote, the motion carried.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:  Greg Phillips, 54 Country Cove, Lake Villa communicated there is a meeting on September 4 for the Lake Villa Fire District, adopting the 2006 international fire code with amendments, and the 2006 building code with amendments written by Lake County.  New fire station is going well and that the Cross Town Classic went well.

EXECUTIVE SESSION A motion to move to Executive Session was made by Trustee Marturano, seconded by Trustee Dunham.  No action is anticipated.

THE ROLL CALL VOTE WAS
Ayes – 6, Trustees Marturano, Dunham, Wayne, Messmer, Metzelaar, Zerba
Nays – 0

Mayor Lahr stated the motion carried and the Board moved into Executive Session at 8:20 pm. 

RE-CONVENE:  The Regular Meeting re-convened at 8:57

MOTION:  A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Trustee Wayne, seconded by Trustee Dunham.  Upon a voice vote, the motion carried.

ADJOURNMENT:  The meeting was adjourned at 8:58 p.m.