Aurora mayor proclamation to Rotary Club of Aurora

By Jason Crane

Mayor of Aurora, Richard Irvin presented a proclamation to the Rotary Club of Aurora in honor of its 100th Anniversary at the Aurora City Council Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting, Tuesday, May 2. A video of the presentation can be viewed after the 13 minute mark on the city government of Aurora’s Facebook page by clicking here.

The Rotary Club of Aurora received its charter March 13, 1923 and recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. The Club will be host to a celebration event Friday, May 12, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.. For more details visit www.aurorarotary.org.

The Rotary Club of Aurora is a group of community leaders who share a passion for enhancing their community and improving lives around the world.

The Club has made a positive impact over the years with various service projects, grant contributions, Interact Club sponsorships, and three college/trade school scholarships. The Club sponsors three scholarships through the Fox River Valley Community Foundation.

For 15 years, the Club sponsored and managed the Aurora Festival of Lights in partnership with the city of Aurora government. In 2022, the Club donated more than $500,000 in light displays to the City, so they could continue and grow the annual event.

In the last 28 years, the Rotary Club of Aurora has awarded more than $850,000 in grant contributions to local and global 501 (c) 3 organizations. A few examples are Hesed House, Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry, Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry, CASA, Rotary Exchange Students, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Shelter Box, Mutual Ground, and Polio Plus.

The Club sponsored a local Days for Girls team that sews and assembles menstrual kits. More than 14,000 kits have been shipped to 43 countries.

• Mayor Irvin presented a proclamation to city of Aurora government municipal clerks in honor of Professional Municipal Clerks Week. City clerk Jennifer Stallings and deputy City clerk Socorro Flores received awards. A video of the presentation can be viewed after the 9 minute mark on the city government of Aurora’s Facebook page by clicking here.

The City Council gave consent to the following mayoral appointments:

• Consent was given to a Resolution approving the mayoral appointment of Michael Houston as superintendent of Water and Sewer Maintenance.

City government of Aurora documents show Houston is the assistant superintendent of Water and Sewer Maintenance

• Consent was given to a Resolution approving the mayoral appointment of Guadalupe Gonzalez III as superintendent of Facilities Maintenance.

City government of Aurora documents show Gonzalez III is the operations supervisor for the city of Naperville.

• Consent was given to a Resolution approving the appointment of Dr. Brian Knetl to the Aurora Education Commission.

City government of Aurora documents show in June 2021, the City Council approved changes to Chapter 2, which included a sunset provision for all board/commission members. The sunset was included to bring the board/commission terms into compliance with the new dates provided in the ordinance, as well as survey members if they wished to continue to serve or step down.

Dr. Brian Knetl, the president of Waubonsee Community College, if approved, will be serving his first term.

• Placed on unfinished business was an Ordinance amending the annual budget for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2023 and ending December 31, 2023 (amendment #1 for the 2023 fiscal year).

The purpose is to obtain the City Council’s approval of a proposed amendment to the 2023 City Budget.

City government of Aurora documents show pursuant to 65 ILCS 5/8-2-9.1 through 9.10, the City of Aurora operates under the budget system of government finance. The City Council adopted the 2023 budget December 6, 2022 through the passage of Ordinance No. O22-082

While the city attempts to anticipate all potential expenditures for a fiscal year when that year’s budget is developed, circumstances occasionally arise that require expenditures that were not contemplated in the original financial plan. 65 ILCS 5/8-2-9.6 permits a municipality operating under the budget system to amend its annual budget by a two-third’s vote of its governing body.

The proposed ordinance would provide for certain changes in the 2023 City Budget. Below is an explanation for each change. Item 1 and Items 15 through 17: Grants/Local Government, Youth Services, General Fund (Offsetting Revenue and Expenditure Increase of $180,000). These items adjust the budget to account for Youth Services receiving a grant from the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA). The grant will be used to cover the cost of providing after-school/Summer enrichment and soccer programs.

Item 2 and Items 38 through 40: Grants/Other, Information Technology, General Fund (Offsetting Revenue and Expenditures Increase of $1,200,000). These items adjust the budget to account for the city receiving the Corridor Improvements Grant which will be used to install security cameras and license plate readers on city-owned posts and along city-owned sidewalks.

Items 3 through 7: Salaries and Benefits, Law, General Fund (Reclassification of expenditures zero impact). This is a reclassification of salaries and benefits to the professional services account for outside attorney fees.

Items 8 and 9: Professional Fees/ Consulting, Information Technology, General Fund (Expenditure Increase of $307,800). This item provides for consulting services to assist with the SharePoint migration previously approved by City Council.

Items 10 through 13: Salaries and Benefits, IT Project Management Office, General Fund (Expenditure Increase of $565,600). The project management office’s staffing was evaluated by Crowe and Human Resources, and it was determined two additional project managers and one Business Analyst are needed. These positions will assist with projects throughout the City.

Item 14: Professional Services/Contracted Services, Community Services, General Fund (Expenditure Increase of $800,000). This item provides funding for the special census. $750,000 is for the upfront deposit to the Census Bureau and the remaining $50,000 will be for consulting services.

Items 18 through 21: Salaries and Benefits, Special Events, General Fund (Expenditures Increase of $134,000). This item provides for additional staffing needs in the Special Events division. Position changes will be the promotion of the manager to a director, adding one Special Events Coordinator and adding one Administrative Aide.

Item 22: Special Events/4th of July, Special Events, General Fund (Expenditure Increase of $80,000). This item provides for an administrative correction to the 4th of July budget.

Item 23: Special Events/Downtown, Special Events, General Fund (Expenditure Increase of $225,000). This is for the downtown Warhol project. The budget for the project will be $275,000 and $50,000 is be transferred from Public Arts division to Special Events division

Item 24: Re-Start Grants, Economic Development, General Fund (Expenditure Increase of $91,000). $91,000 is the remaining funds for the Re-Start Grant from last year.

Items 25 and 26: Salaries and Benefits, Fire Department, General Fund (Expenditures Increases of $55,800). This is for the new Fire Training Captain position.

Item 27: Employee Benefits/Clothing, Fire Department, General Fund (Expenditures Increases of $72,000). This is for clothing for the new fire positions.

Items 28 through 31: Salaries and Benefits, Engineering, General Fund, (Expenditure Increases of $12,100). These items provide for the assistant director of Public Works/assistant City engineer position to be upgraded based on a salary review.

Item 32: Supplies Computers, ETSB Fund (Expenditure Increase of $43,200). This item provides for the payment of costs for computer equipment to support law enforcement activities that were not initially budgeted for the year.

Item 33: Professional Development/Training, State Asset Forfeiture Fund (Expenditure Increase of $10,000). This item provides for the payment of costs for police-related training. Adequate fund balance was available in the fund to cover the additional costs.

Item 34: Supplies Computers, Equitable Sharing Justice Fund (Expenditure Increase of $7,600). This item provides for the payment of costs for computer equipment to support law enforcement activities that were not initially budgeted for the year.

Item 35: Other Special Programs, Information Technology, ARPA Fund (Expenditure Increase of $165,000). This item provides for additional funding for the STEAM Academy.

Item 36: Repairs and Mtce./Computer Network, Information Technology, ARPA Fund (Expenditure Increase of $104,300). This item provides for cabling for the Community Center at 1226 Grand Boulevard.

Item 37: Capital Outlay/Machines-Equipment, Police Department, ARPA Fund (Expenditure Increase of $15,000). This item provides for 18 additional body cameras for new police officers.

Item 41: Capital Outlay-City owned Optical Fiber, Information Technology, Capital Improvement Fund (Expenditure Increase of $266,000). This item provides fiber infrastructure to two affordable housing projects: The Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity Habitat Green Freedom subdivision and 1449 Senior Estates subdivision.

Item 42: Capital Outlay-City Vehicle/Trucks, Electrical Division, Capital Improvement Fund (Expenditure Increase of $295,800). This item is an administrative correction for the Electrical Department’s bucket truck.

Item 43: Building and Grounds, MVPS Fund (Expenditure Increase of $113,000). This item provides for additional funds for the resurfacing of Lot A.

If the proposed budget amendment is approved, budgeted expenditures in the 2023 budget will increase from $597,480,653 to $601,916,053.

• Placed on unfinished business was a resolution authorizing the chief financial officer/city treasurer to disburse payments of eligible businesses recommended for award as part of the City’s Finish Line Grant and Re-Start Retention Grant programs.

The purpose of both grants is to assist viable small businesses that have demonstrated a financial commitment to the City yet need funding generally not provided by banks and similar financial institutions.

City government of Aurora documents show the City has two business assistance programs developed and administered by the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development to retain and recruit businesses in the City of Aurora.

The Finish Line Grant is a long-standing reimbursement program that was made city-wide this year and provides the “last dollars” to complete a rehabilitation project. The program bolsters the long-term prospects of a business that might not otherwise have ready access to the final funds to complete the project. This is accomplished by reimbursing up to 20% of the verified costs for business improvements. The objective is for all monies to be utilized for capital improvements that reinvest into their properties and the City of Aurora as a whole.

The Re-Start Grant was conceived last year on the heels of the pandemic to assist small businesses that were suffering longer term financial impacts of the pandemic. While these impacts have subsided, the uncertain economic climate and rising interest rates cause the City to extend this program to worthy businesses. The funding is coming from the gaming tax and carried over from the general fund.

Both programs were marketed to the public through news coverage on Fox32, Channel 5, Channel 7 among others, through local newspapers including The Beacon, on social media and shared with City government partners from Invest Aurora and the Aurora Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce who followed up with Spanish speaking workshops.

Finish Line Grant:

For Finish Line, property proposed for rehabilitation must be intended for permitted commercial and/or mixed-use and be within the limits of the city of Aurora.

26 businesses are being recommended for approval totaling the amount of $513,226. All businesses that met the established guidelines have been approved and are recommended for a grant. The average grant proposed is $19,739.45 which represents a total average investment by these businesses of $98,697.27 into their properties. The total amount of reinvestment back into the City of Aurora from these recommended grant recipients totals more than $2.5 million for the City of Aurora. Table I lists all applications recommended for approval.

Re-Start Grant:

For Re-Start, small businesses within commercial areas of the city of Aurora, including those operating on City-owned property, are eligible to apply with some noted exceptions.

25 applicants are being recommended for approval of a Re-Start Grant totaling the amount of $182,406. Table II lists all applications recommended for approval. All businesses that met the established guidelines have been approved and are recommended for a grant.

Both of these grants are being funded through the gaming tax and supplemented through the general fund. The total amount available in funding is $766,946.60 with $68,045 allocated previously in 2022 as a FLG grant to Premil as noted in their RDA agreement. The total amount for the combined grants (Finish Line $513,226 and Re-Start $182,406) for recommendation is $695,632 leaving a surplus of $3,269.60 for the year. All awardees must be current on all payments of City obligations before checks will be released.

This grant program is a testament to the success of obtaining business registration which is a requirement for all businesses in the City of Aurora.

By providing these grants, the City is providing small businesses the opportunity to reinvest back into their businesses and the community. Approval of these grants will provide continued employment for a workforce of hundreds of employees, assure continued growth and provide the City with a steady flow of revenues from these businesses be it in real estate, sales and/or food and beverage taxes while adding to an increase of property value. With this round of grants, it is important to note that the Finish Line Grants were more in demand which indicates Aurora’s economic development is strong and the business community is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• The recommended recipients of the Finish Line Grants are:

Premil/The Garage, $68,045.

Crystal House, $10,693.00, 59 S. LaSalle in Ward 2.

Record Status Entertainment, $11,929.72 39 W. New York Street in Ward 6.

Double Yolk, $13,137.80, 1555 Butterfield in Ward 1.

Cassbro LLC DBA ASU Cycles, $1,979.79 14 W. Downer Place in Ward 2.

MA Tea House, $17,400.00, 1426 Fox Valley Center Drive in Ward 10.

Woodwork Refined Corp., $11,674.81, 725 Morton Avenue in Ward 6.

Hills Banquet Hall, $39,040.00, 649 Hill Avenue in Ward 3.

River Breeze, $11,006.60, 54 W. Downer Place in Ward 2.

Tavern on Broadway, $45,025.10, 24 N. Broadway in Ward 2.

Martinez Built, LLC (Nide Jardin), $34,311.98 140 S. River Street, Suite 106, in Ward 4.

Kwik Store, $30,553.03, 913 S. Lake Street in Ward 4.

Dream Dance Studio, $9,213.34, 195 Fox Valley Center Drive in Ward 10.

A. C. Automotive, $12,705.60, 535 5th Avenue in Ward 3.

G.A.M.E. Makeup, $3,979.17, 9 S. Stolp in Ward 2.

Balderas Beauty, $2,367.65, 25 N. Broadway in Ward 2.

Atrevete Bakery, $100,000.00, 504 S. Lincoln in Ward 4.

Ornelas Tire, $5,023.20, 1001 Aurora Avenue, Suite B, in Ward 1.

Bella Jewelry, $8,820.00, 23 N. Broadway in Ward 2.

American Luxemburger Club, $4,090.00, 416 High Street in Ward 2.

Aurora Business Center, $8,124.61, 31 W. Downer Place in Ward 2.

Millennium Auto Care, $6,004.80, 244 S. River Street in Ward 4.

Brahmani Inc., $2,579.00, 2595 Ogden Avenue in Ward 7.

Sanpre Arete LLC, $32,456.58, 60 S. Broadway in Ward 2.

Wellspring Creative Communications $ 16,390.00 75 S LaSalle Street Ward 2.

Morton Gas & Food Inc (?) $69,920.00, 832 W. Illinois Avenue in Ward 4.

Sammy Whammy, $4,800.00, 33 W. New York in Ward 6.

• The recommended recipients of the ReStart Grants are:

Crystal House, $10,000.00, 59 S. LaSalle Street in Ward 2.

Double Yolk, $10,000.00, 1555 Butterfield Road in Ward 1.

Taqueria Senor Taco, $3,000.00, 21 N. Madison in Ward 2.

Gray Apparel Corp, $10,000.00, 935 W. Galena Boulevard in Ward 4.

Gateway Professional, $7,540.00, 412 N. Lake Street in Ward 6.

It’s A Gift Wrap, $5,000.00, 1771 Mallette Road in Ward 1.

Barber Wash Garage LLC, $5,000.00, 636 N. Lancaster Avenue in Ward 4.

Ashley’s Chezparee, $10,000.00, 923 N. Lake Street in Ward 6.

Calla Lily Tea Room, $ 10,000.00, 83 S. LaSalle Street in Ward 2.

Chelios Pub & Grill, $10,000.00, 2150 Ogden Avenue in Ward 7.

Latrice Murphy Design & Photography, $8,365.89 62, S River Street in Ward 2.

Frutas & Yogurts Pancho Corp, $3,000.00, 737 Hill Avenue in Ward 3.

The Perch, $6,500.00, 31 W. Downer Place in Ward 2.

Final Stretch Events/Tapville Social, $10,000.00, 195 Fox Valley Circle in Ward 8.

Nikarrys, $10,000.00, 1055 N. Lake Street in Ward 6.

Harvey’s Firebox, $3,000.00, 537 7th Avenue in Ward 3.

PTT Services, $5,000.00, 1771 Mallette Road in Ward 1.

Banana Pudding Twist, $10,000.00, 1304 Fox Valley Center, Unit 1183 in Ward 10.

Attitudes dba Lady T’s Pizzaria and Pub, $10,000.00, 1760 N. Farnsworth Avenue in Ward 1.

Laura’s Furniture, $10,000.00, 430 N. Farnsworth Avenue in Ward 7.

Aurora Dentrix, $5,000.00, 57 E. Downer Place in Ward 2.

Imagen Boutique, $10,000.00, 646 Ashland Avenue in Ward 3.

Compucell and More, $6,000.00, 219 E. Galena Boulevard in Ward 2.

Taqueria Urireo Corp., $5,000.00, 878 N. Lake Street in Ward 6.

• Placed on unfinished business was a Resolution approving a $1,500,000 loan to Fox Valley Developers to facilitate the leasing of about 27,900 square feet of approximately 50,000 square feet total health care facility, on the Bloomhaven Campus, previously known as the shuttered former Copley Hospital and amending certain provisions of the original redevelopment agreement (RDA) (R19-382, November 12, 2019) relating to the City’s share of TIF #14, (O20-071, October 13, 2020).

City government of Aurora documents show these two actions will secure a health care provider as the anchor tenant for the medical office portion of the Bloomhaven campus by providing needed affordable health care services to the near east side. It also assures the financing for the almost completed redevelopment. This in turn triggers additional funding of over $20 million ($62.2 million in total) that will pay off outstanding shorter-term loans, outstanding construction costs, deferred interest, and other scheduled liabilities.

The $1,500,000 loan provides Fox Valley Developers with funding for their portion of the total tenant build out. Full build out is estimated to be approximately $5,500,000 with the developer contributing about 27% or $54/SF and the health care provider contributing the balance.

Financing of Bloomhaven was and remains grounded in maintaining the historic nature of the former Copley campus using Federal and State tax credits to provide substantial equity for the project. These credits are purchased by institutional investors who have considerable sway over financial decisions of the project including parameters related to refinancing. While leasing almost 60% of the commercial space is seen as a positive and another step toward achieving the financial results first estimated pre-pandemic about four years ago, this comes with strict requirements imposed by the tax credit investor including the clearing of all liabilities up front. This has required Fox Valley Developers to forgo all projected development fees, construction profit and overhead and significantly reduce reimbursements for services already performed by certain partners involved in the day-to-day construction and to increase their own cash contributions to about $5M in additional dollars.

While the City believes these are correct actions to be taken by developers who take risks and should reap reward when successful, having a tenant that provides health care to those who otherwise would go without it, provides additional impetus to recommend providing needed liquidity as the development reaches its last critical phase. The assistance will come in the form of debt and will provide the taxpayer with a return on investment as discussed below,

The long-term stability for Bloomhaven will result from leasing and creating net cash flow to service long term debt and provide eventual well-deserved return on investment for Fox Valley Developers. That Weston Bridges, the innovative community for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities is exceeding projections and the recently opened Bardwell Senior Living Community is well received as residents are now moving in, bodes well for a development that was deemed impossible when it was conceived about five years ago.

As noted above there are two separate requests: The first is a straightforward loan to Fox Valley Developers for $1.5 Million which represents the landlord’s obligation as per the lease.

The loan will only be granted after an executed lease is signed and will be drawn in a manner to assure the tenant improvements are completed as per the lease.

This loan will be paid back starting on January 1, 2030. It will accrue interest at the City of Aurora’s cost of funds plus 50 basis points (1/2%) and will be personally guaranteed by each partner joint and severally. The loan and an all-accrued interest shall be amortized on a straight-line basis over a term of five years (60 months) with monthly principal and interest due on the first of each month beginning January 1, 2030.

The second request relates to the City’s share of the previously approved TIF which provides the City with a 20% share of all TIF Revenues from TIF inception until 1/1/2033 at which time the City share is scheduled to increase to 30%. As the project is still in its early stabilization phase, property taxes are still low. This is expected to change by 2025 when the total taxes generated by the property is expected to be about $725,000 (compared to $25,000 today) and the City share, at 20% would be about $145,000 (compared to $5,000 today).

To assure continued liquidity and the full returns required by the tax credit investor, they have insisted that the City share of the TIF be deferred until 2030. The City has agreed to these terms on the following conditions: 1) that all deferred payments are characterized as a loan (subordinate to the scheduled refinancing) 2) that the loan accrues compounding interest at the City’s cost of funding plus fifty (50) basis points (1/2%) 3) that the loan matures on Jan 1, 2035, and is amortized on a straight line basis. 4) that the loan is personally guaranteed by all partners jointly and severally and 5) that the city share of the TIF payments increases to 30% on Jan 1, 2030. This increase to 30% from 20% is occurring 3 years prior to originally scheduled which is a positive benefit for the city of Aurora and would provide an estimated $350,000 additional increment to the City over those 3 years.

There are several positive impacts to the Aurora community because of this request. The first is the benefit of having an experienced, well regarded health care provider on the near east side to provide affordable health care. The second is to assure the long-term financial viability of Bloomhaven in an uncertain economic time; while there have been certain modifications to the original agreements since it was first approved in late 2019,they had to do more with timing than supplying additional financial capital even as costs and interest rates surged during and after the pandemic that continue to this day, The positive impact to the Bardwell neighborhood itself continues with property values increasing and quality of life notably enhanced. School District 131 has consolidated all it offices in one building and are pleased that the community can access school district administrative services all at one location.

Finally, it is estimated that the health care provider will generate about 100 well-paying jobs.

The City Council gave consent to the following agenda items likely to be placed on the Tuesday, May 9 full City Council agenda:

• Consent was given to a Resolution adopting the Civility Pledge proposed by the Illinois Municipal League.

City government of Aurora documents show April 20, 2022, the Board of Directors of the Illinois Municipal League, of which the City is a member, announced a new initiative to focus on civility in local governments, to “encourage productive dialogue and build public trust.”

As part of this initiative, IML’s Board adopted a Civility Pledge and encouraged its member municipalities to follow suit.

By population, Aurora is IML’s largest member other than Chicago and Aurora mayors have traditionally held membership on IML’s Board of Directors. As the Civility Pledge adopted by the IML is consistent with the practices and principles long held by the City Council, this is an opportunity to provide early support the IML’s initiative and join its Board in encouraging that other municipalities consider adopting the pledge as well.

Passage of this Resolution will help elected and appointed officials continue to keep civility in mind as they perform their official duties on behalf of City residents.

• Consent was given to two Resolutions approving the Final Plat for Pacifica Riverview subdivision on property at 309 N. River Street and 201 N. River Street.

The Petitioner, Windfall Aurora, LLC, is requesting approval of Final Plat for Pacifica Riverview Subdivision at 309 N River Street and 201 N River Street to create a 4-lot subdivision.

City government of Aurora documents show the Property is owned by the City of Aurora and is being utilized as a public parking lot. In 2010, the City of Aurora purchased this property and rezoned it to DF Downtown Fringe District with the intent that this property will be a future investment for redevelopment. At that time, the City constructed additional parking spaces as a temporary measure to help the overall parking situation in and near the downtown. It has always been the City’s goal to redevelop this property and relocate the parking lots away from the Fox River. In addition, the new pedestrian bridge across the Fox River is adjacent to this development which allows the residences to access amenities along the east side of the river such as the Aurora Train Station and RiverEdge Park.

In February of 2022, the City Council approved a Redevelopment Agreement with Windfall Group, LLC for the construction of an apartment building on the west bank of the river. In July of 2022, an amendment to the Redevelopment Agreement was approved to update various milestones. In October of 2022, the City Council approved the establishment of Conditional Use Planned Development along with the Preliminary Plan and Plat.

The Petitioner is requesting approval of Final Plat for the Pacifica Riverview Subdivision. The Plat consists of subdividing 309 N. River Street and 201 N. River Street, being 7.511 acres into 4 lots. Lot 1 consists of the proposed residential building and northern half of the proposed private drive, Lot 2 consists of the southern half of the proposed private drive, Lot 3 consists of the proposed north fire lane and open space along the river, being between the building and the Fox Valley Park District property and Lot 4 will remain a public parking lot until such time it is redeveloped. Lot 2, 3 and 4 will continue to be owned by the City of Aurora.

Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting approval of a Final Plan on 2.34 acres. The proposal includes the construction of a new riverfront market rate multi-story residential building. The proposed building consists of 7 stories with a total of 187 residential units. The units will be a combination of studios, 1-bedrooms, 2-bedrooms, and 3-bedrooms including 10 rowhouse units facing the Fox River which will be two-story units with rooftop patios. These units will range from approximately 400 square feet to 1550 square feet.

The first and second floor consists of the lobby, leasing office, amenity space, retail space, a 2-story parking garage, and the rowhouse units. The third floor consists of residential units, amenity space including a fitness room, a social room and a rooftop terrace which overlooks the Fox River. The fourth thru seventh floors consists solely of residential units.

A total of 292 parking spaces will be within the parking garage of which 17 spaces are tandem. There are also 6 parallel parking spaces on the southern private drive, and 8 on-street parallel parking spaces along River Street. A minimum of one parking space within the garage will be reserved for each residential unit which will be included as part of the rent. In addition, one-fourth of the total parking spaces will be reserved for visitor parking. The remaining spaces may be rented out to those tenants who have more than one car. The parking garage entrance will be via the private drive on the south side of the building with a cul-de-sac at the end for turnaround. A fire lane is being constructed on the north side of the building on the city’s property. The cul-de-sac and the fire lane will be in matching stamped concrete.

A landscape plan has been submitted as part of the final plan approval. The streetscape design for River Street will be stepped from the street to the sidewalk entering the building with raised landscaped beds and seating areas. Landscaping is also being installed along the north side of the private drive and along the rowhouse units. The rowhouse units will have enclosed entrances via decorative fencing on a retaining wall. The Petitioner is also constructing a sidewalk which will lead down to the existing bike path.

As part of the final plan approval, the Petitioner is requesting modifications to the building code. The modifications include a reduction of the amount of full wythe masonry on building from 80% to 20% and a reduction of the wall STC rating from 60 to 55 and Floor IIC rating from 58 to 53.

City government staff members have been working with the developer to create a contemporary design that incorporates a mixture of building materials with staggering facades. The first-floor and parking levels consists of precast concrete formed to look like brick. The first-floor corners along River Street will be accented in metal panels. The upper floors are clad in a smooth two-toned gray fiber cement with the projecting bays being cream brick with textured gray fiber cement between windows. Wood panel fiber cement is scattered throughout the building to create additional accents. Each unit features balconies or decks with extra large balconies provided on the end units. The rowhouse units along the river are in keeping with the same contemporary design. They are gray brick with two-toned fiber cement on the projecting bays. Each unit includes a large span of windows and a rooftop deck taking advantage of the river view.

City government staff members have reviewed the Final Plat Resolution petition and have sent comments back to the petitioner on those submittals. The petitioner has made the requested revisions to these documents, and they now meet the applicable codes and ordinances, with the exception of the items reflected in the conditions listed in the staff members’ recommendation below.

Over the last year, City government staff members have been working collaboratively with the Petitioner on building design, streetscape design and site layout to create a quality development. This development will bring much needed residents and improve the economics and strength the social fabric of the downtown.

Policies and guidelines:

The City government staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following Physical Development Policies:

10.0 To provide for the orderly, balanced and efficient growth and redevelopment of the City through the positive integration of land-use patterns, functions, and circulation systems. To protect and enhance those assets and values that establishes the desirable quality and general livability of the City. To promote the City’s position as a regional center

13.1(7) To promote mass transit stations and intensive land uses, including high-density residential complexes, to locate in relative proximity to one another so as to stimulate transit use.

33.1 (1) To plan for and promote the Downtown as a center for financial, institutional, governmental, office, general retail, specialized commercial, conference, hotel, residential, cultural, recreational and entertainment functions.

33.1 (5) To actively seek new office and high density residential uses to create a viable commercial market.

Recommendations:

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended conditional approval of the Resolution Approving the Final Plat for Pacifica Riverview Subdivision on property at 309 N. River Street and 201 N. River Street, with the following conditions:

1) That the Final Plat approval be contingent upon Final Engineering approval.

2) That the Final Plat documents be revised to incorporate the Zoning and Planning Department staff members’ comments included in the memo dated April 11, 2023, prior to building permit issuance.

• Consent was given to an Ordinance annexing property at 1299 Mitchell Road to the city of Aurora and an Ordinance establishing a conditional use planned development, approving the W.E. Mundy Landscaping plan description and amending Chapter 49 of the Code of Ordinances, City of Aurora, by modifying the zoning map thereto to an underlying zoning of B-3 Business and Wholesale District for the property at 1299 Mitchell Road.

City government of Aurora documents show the Petitioner, W.E. Mundy Landscaping and Garden Center, Inc., is requesting the annexation of 3.54 acres at 1299 Mitchell Road pursuant to a water service agreement.

The Property is 3.54 acres and zoned F-2 Farming District in unincorporated Kane County. The City’s Comprehensive Plan designates this parcel as mixture of Commercial and Low Density Residential. The majority of the area is non-residential uses. This property is contiguous to the City of Aurora along a portion of the property to the west and to the east.

The Petitioner is requesting annexation to the City of Aurora pursuant to a Water Service Agreement. The property was recently developed in the Kane County for a landscape company with outside storage including a nursery use and is receiving water from the City. Per the annexation process, the property is annexed into the City with R-1 One Family Dwelling District Zoning.

Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting the Establishment of a Conditional Use Planned Development, and to change the underlying zoning district from R-1 One-Family Dwelling District zoning to B-3 Business and Wholesale District. The plan description allows for the continued use of the property as a landscape company with outside storage including a nursery use.

The Petitioner is also requesting the approval of a Plat of Dedication. This Plat will dedicate 40 feet of right of way from the centerline of Mitchell Road.

City government staff members have reviewed the annexation ordinance petition and have sent comments back to the petitioner on those submittals. The petitioner has made the requested revisions to these documents and they now meet the applicable codes and ordinances.

Policies and guidelines:

The City government staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following physical development policies:

10.0 To provide for the orderly, balanced and efficient growth and redevelopment of the City through the positive integration of land use patterns, functions, and circulation systems. To protect and enhance those assets and values that establishes the desirable quality and general livability of the City. To promote the City’s position as a regional center.

11.1(5) To guide and promote development to areas where public utilities, public roads and municipal services are either available or planned.

11.1(3) To encourage new development contiguous to existing development.

• Consent was given to a Resolution accepting the dedication of right-of-way for Duke Parkway, at 2810 Duke Parkway and an Ordinance Vacating a Portion of Dedicated Public Right-of-Way for Duke Parkway, on the Property at 2810 Duke Parkway.

City government of Aurora documents show the Petitioner, Atlanta Land – ESI Design Services, Inc., is requesting approval of a Plat of Dedication for approximately 400 square feet of right-of-way along Duke Parkway, near the property at 2810 Duke Parkway.

The Property is zoned PDD, Planned Development District. The Property is a vacant lot that is approximately 50 acres that is in the Butterfield development district. The Comprehensive Plan designates the property as Office / Research / Light Industrial. The Property is an interior lot that fronts on Duke Parkway.

The Petitioner is requesting approval of a Plat of Dedication for right-of-way. The details of the request include the dedication of approximately 400 square feet for right-of-way. The right-of-way area that is being dedicated on the eastern edge of the Property, just north of where Duke Parkway bends slight to the east.

Concurrently with this proposal, Atlanta Land – ESI Design Services, Inc., is requesting approval of a Final Plan for Lot 2A of Butterfield East, Unit 1, at 2810 Duke Parkway for a Business and Professional, Office (2400) Use and a Warehouse, Distribution and Storage Services (3300) Use. The details of the request include construction of an approximately 407,000 square foot building that will be utilized for food distribution. The minimum parking requirement is two hundred, forty-five (245) passenger vehicle parking spaces, and designated spaces for tractor trailer parking on the northern portion of the Property. There is also an approximately 17,000 maintenance building, which will perform accessory vehicle repair on the trucks. The proposed major vehicle repair is a permitted use in the Butterfield development district when the work is completed within the enclosed building. The Final Plan proposal also includes a new rail spur connection to the existing adjacent Eastern Railroad on the western side. There is also a proposed fire lane connection to the property to the southwest.

The Petitioner has also provided building elevations. The proposed building, at its peak, is approximately 44 feet tall from grade. The office portion of the building, which is at the building’s northeast corner, consists of tastefully designed aluminum plank cladding, horizontally mounted gray metal panels, and windows that face towards Duke Parkway. The warehouse portion of the building consists of insulated metal panels, which are also tastefully designed.

Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting approval of a Plat of Vacation. The details of the request include the vacation of approximately two thousand, three hundred (2,300) square feet of Duke Parkway right-of-way. The right-of-way area that is being vacated is on the eastern edge of the Property where Duke Parkway bends slightly to the east.

City government staff members have reviewed the Plat of Dedication Resolution petition and have sent comments back to the petitioner on those submittals. The Petitioner has made the requested revisions to these documents and they now meet the applicable codes and ordinances.

Policies and guidelines:

The City government staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following Physical Development Policies:

41.1 (1): To encourage the location of industrial, office and office-research development near transportation facilities designed to provide adequate and efficient linkages to sources of labor, production materials and markets.

41.1 (2): To promote a balanced distribution of industries within the City.

41.1 (6): To promote attractive, well-maintained industrial and office-research areas through landscaping and site design.

• Consent was given to an Ordinance providing for the issuance of not to exceed $35,000,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023A, of the City of Aurora, Kane, DuPage, Kendall and Will Counties, Illinois, for the purpose of financing capital improvements in and for said City, providing for the levy of a direct annual tax sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on said bonds, and authorizing the proposed sale of said bonds to the purchaser thereof.

The purpose is to obtain the approval of the City Council of a proposed ordinance providing for the issuance of the Series 2023A General Obligation (GO) Bonds.

City government of Aurora documents show the 2023-2032 Capital Improvements Plan and 2023 City Budget call for the financing of various capital projects through the issuance of General Obligation Bonds of the City. The major projects include continued construction costs for the Public Works Facility, the relocation and construction of various fire stations in the City to improve response times and better meet service demands, River Edge Park expansion, and various street and intersection improvement projects.

The draft ordinance is the first official step in selling bonds to finance these projects. The ordinance is structured as a “parameters ordinance” and sets forth various conditions under which sale of the bonds is approved, providing the terms of the bonds are within certain parameters as defined in the ordinance. The ordinance has been structured to provide some flexibility to take advantage of the most beneficial bond structure given market conditions at the time of bond sale.

City government officials intend to sell the 2023A GO Bonds the week of June 12, 2023 to provide resources for the aforementioned projects.

The final bond ordinance will be prepared after the bonds are sold and the exact interest costs are known.

City government officials do anticipate that there will be a subsequent bond issuance later in 2023 to finance the City’s contribution for the Casino construction and relocation project. Nothing related to those bonds is included in the bond ordinance draft. The casino project bonds will have their own ordinance and related documents that will be brought forward later in 2023.

Adoption of the Ordinance will allow for the financing and timely construction of various capital improvements and projects.

• Consent was given to a Resolution approving a development agreement by and among the city of Aurora, Atlanta Land L.K.E. LLC, and US Foods, Inc. for the development of property at 2810 Duke Parkway, Aurora, 60502.

City government of Aurora documents show Atlanta Land L.K.E. LLC is the owner of the vacant land measuring approximately 49.7-acre parcel and at 2810 Duke Parkway, Aurora. For the purposes of clarity, Atlanta Land L.K.E. LLC is a wholly owned special purpose entity subsidiary of US Foods, and US Foods, Inc. is the sole member of Atlanta Land L.K.E. LLC. In considering this location for the development of this parcel to include an approximately 300,000+ square foot distribution and truck maintenance facility housed in one main building and two outbuildings, US Foods has requested that the City consider entering into a sales and property tax sharing agreement for a 10-year period. This new $100,000,000+ development would consist of approximately 280,000 sf distribution facilities, including approximately 19,000 sf of new office space, and a 12,650 sf of truck maintenance facility.

As part of the final stages of their site selection process, US Foods requested their agent, CBRE, issue a Location Incentive Proposal to candidate market which would allow them (US Foods) to evaluate opportunities from state and local authorities to help mitigate location specific one-time and recurring costs that would assist in supporting the projects financial objectives. The Development Agreement before you tonight has been preliminarily reviewed and approved by the Company.

The cost of the improvements to this vacant land will be substantial, estimated to be $100,000,000, and will greatly enhance the real estate tax base for the city. Interestingly, because of the nature of the sales activities associated with this new facility, the City will also realize a substantial increase to revenues generated through the state municipal sale taxes, as well as a slight increase to home rule sales tax assessments. Additionally, when completed, the project will provide a minimum of 260 jobs to the Aurora area.

Upon final approval, the Development Agreement before you provides for a property tax rebate to US Foods of 50% of the property taxes paid annually, excluding any portion of the City’s property tax levy for pension funding; a 50% rebate of all sales taxes generated by the development for a 10 year period at which time the property and sales tax revenue generated will be retained by the city at 100%. The Development Agreement also provides for a waiver of Building Permit Plan Review Expediting fee.

The development site under consideration is undeveloped and as such generates approximately $1,200 in annual real estate property taxes. The substantial improvement to the site will dramatically increase the property taxes generated at this location as follows:

Approximately $600,000+ in total property tax

Approximately $126,000+ in total property tax to the City of Aurora

Additionally, sales at this site will be subject to Illinois State Sales Taxes and as such should generate new sales tax revenues to the city as follows:

Approximately $250,000 in average annual sales tax.

• Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the purchase of three 2025 E-ONE Cyclone Custom Cab 1500 GPM engines for $2,965,947.00 from Fire Service Inc, along with $75,000.00 for the garage set up fee for a total of $3,040,947.00.

The purpose is to purchase three 2024 E-ONE Cyclone Custom Cab 1500 GPM Engines from Fire Service Inc. to replace reserve engines, 2000 E-ONE with 104,980 miles, a 2003 E-ONE with 125,346 miles, and a 2004 E-ONE with 132,836 Miles. All of which are at the end of their serviceable life span. This is on the recommendation of Derrick Winston from Equipment Services.

City government of Aurora documents show the fire department depends on reliable vehicles to respond to emergency calls from its citizens. In order to ensure a reliable fleet of vehicles, equipment services have recommended vehicles be used as front line apparatus for 13 years. When a vehicle is replaced as a front-line vehicle, that vehicle is moved to reserve status, and utilized when a front-line vehicle is out of service for maintenance, or additional equipment is needed for large emergencies. At that time, the oldest reserve engine, or the one that is least reliable, is removed from service. Due to longer build times this order will be delivered at the time of front line engines reaching the end of their front line service life.

Due to lead times of up to 26 to 29 months from the time of orders being placed, City government officials are requesting the approval to place the order now for delivery to take place in 2025 and possibly early 2026. The preordering concept was discussed with both the Finance Department and the Mayor’s Office, and it was determined this is the best approach.

Equipment services has recommended that front line fire department engines get moved to reserve status when they are 13 years old. This practice allows former front-line engines to be used as reserve vehicles that are reliable enough to be of service when the front-line vehicles are in the shop for maintenance and repairs. The new engines will replace two 2012 front line engines (engine 1 and 10). Then replacing a 2013 front line engine (engine 9).

The City of Aurora, IL last purchased Fire engines from Fire Service in 2020. They are the local dealer for the E-ONE Manufacturer of Ocala Florida that the city has used since the late 90s. The vehicle pricing is secured through the Houston-Galveston Area Council Cooperative Purchasing Program (H-GAC), allowing the Aurora Fire Department to purchase the engine at a group rate. The H-GAC Cooperative Bid is 7.2% less than E-One’s most recent standalone bid price. The H-GAC Cooperative has been used by several departments in Illinois. Because each engine has slightly different specifications based on the operations of each department, an exact comparison is not possible.

Per the sales agreement, the approximate time from contract to delivery is 26-29 months. Due to this long order to build times The City of Aurora, needs to place the orders in advance to stay on schedule with replacement plans. This will also lock in current pricing avoiding future price increases. With the ordering of Engine 13 the design of a taller cab and lower hose beds has increased the price, this increase should be offset with less knee and shoulder injuries due to the lower hose bed configuration.

These engines will be purchased and budgeted in future years using account 255-3033-422.75-10 There is $2,965,947 in this account along with a need for $75,000 in account 255-3033-422.38-89 to be allocated for the garage for vehicle set-up, including radio and tool mounting.

In order to provide the City of Aurora with reliable emergency services, the fire department relies on a fleet of response apparatus to get to those calls. When vehicles reach a certain age, they are more prone to mechanical breakdowns as well as increased maintenance costs. Older apparatus are out of service more often for repairs. By replacing 13-year-old front line engine with a new apparatus, and removing 2003 and older reserve equipment, the fire department will be better able to respond to requests for help from the public.

• Consent was given to a Resolution to award $265,666.00 of funds approved through 2023 Fiber CIP resolution R23-069 to NTI National Technologies, Downers Grove, Ill., to provide fiber infrastructure the Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity Habitat Green Freedom and 1449 Senior Estates subdivisions.

City government of Aurora documents show the Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity Habitat Green Freedom Subdivision was approved in resolution R23-005 and is intended to be an affordable smart home community using the internet-based technologies to achieve high-efficiency homes. In a partnership with Nicor these homes will be supplied with Nicor SMART panels that allow homeowners to control the home’s features using phones and Internet functions. As such, these homes require high-quality fiber optic infrastructure. The City was approached by Nicor to partner in providing fiber infrastructure to this subdivision to enhance economic development.

The 1449 Senior Estates Subdivision was approved in resolution O22-024 and is intended to be a 70-unit development limited to residents 62 years old or older, with income eligibility of $15,000 to $45,000 a year. This community will have an on-site management office, a club room, a media center, and a fitness club among other amenities and is being developed by developed by a group that includes the Aurora Housing Authority, the Northern Lights Development Corporation. The City was approached by the Aurora Housing Authority and the Northern Lights Development Corp to partner in providing fiber infrastructure to this subdivision.

Resolution R23-069 approved the 2023 CIP fiber budget for nine projects at a total cost of $1,781,554.00 with an 11% contingency of $218,446.00 and a total not to exceed $2,000,000.

After finalizing estimates for all remaining 2023 projects, NTI has determined they will complete the 2023 CIP fiber projects at a total cost of $1,705,286.00 – which is a savings of $75,868.00 over the amount approved in R23-069. This savings coupled with the original contingency of $218,446.00 leaves $294,314.00 remaining of the $2,000,000 approved for 2023 projects.

City IT staff members are requesting to use $265,666.00 of these remaining funds to provide fiber to these two subdivisions. Based on the projects approved in R23-069 and the revised estimates provided by NTI, the remaining contingency of $28,648.00 is sufficient.

As approved in R23-069, NTI has done extensive fiber work for the City of Aurora. NTI has provided quality service for the City of Aurora and provided competitive pricing based on the Kane County Resolution 22-170 dated June 2, 2022 for Fiber Optic Support Services. City IT staff members are confident in NTI’s services to provide fiber to these subdivisions.

Funding for this project will be in account 340-1280-419.73-86 (C104)

By approving this resolution, City-owned fiber will be utilized to provide efficient, cost-effective fiber infrastructure to these communities that are unique to Illinois and the region.

• Consent was given to a Resolution to accept On-The-Go as the contractor for the City of Aurora Ride Solution for Seniors (CARSS) transportation program pilot which provides supplemental transportation services (in partnership with identified community organizations) for eligible seniors and individuals living with disabilities within the City of Aurora in the amount of $125,050.00.

The purpose is to obtain City Council approval for On-The-Go to be the contractor for the City of Aurora Ride Solution for Seniors (CARSS) transportation program pilot which provides supplemental transportation services for eligible seniors and individuals living with disabilities.

City government of Aurora documents show in Fall of 2021, Senior and Disability Services conducted a dozen Senior Listening Tour events. More than 250 senior citizens attended, providing information on the major concerns facing Aurora’s elderly. The Seniors and Disabilities Division discovered that existing providers of transportation for seniors and the disabled in Aurora are unable to meet the needs of the growing number of seniors in the community due to county barriers, volunteer driver shortages, affordability, and reliable options. Thus, Senior and Disability Services is developing a pilot program to provide supplemental transportation services for those residents who cannot be served by existing transportation programs.

Local seniors’ transportation providers have found they are not able to find adequate volunteer drivers or county flexible transportation to assist in the increasing rise in requests for service. The new pilot program being created by Senior and Disability Services expects to provide transportation for as many as 50 seniors a month.

A Request for Proposal was sent out to identify a contractor to provide this supplemental transportation service within the City of Aurora Illinois. A response was received from 2 vendors with On-The-Go and Ride X Corp, being the only responsible proposers. On-The-Go was the highest ranked proposer.

This was a Request for Proposal and therefore not subject to the local preference ordinance.

Contract will be for 6 months with the option to extend for an additional two years upon mutual consent between the City and the vendor.

Funding for Senior and Disability Services, for the City of Aurora Ride Solution for Seniors (CARSS) transportation program pilot, for $125,050.00 will be account 101-1372-440.50-80.

Grants and CDBG funds have been received in the amount of $70,000 in support of this program.

With more than 30,000 residents over the age of 60, the City of Aurora is serving a growing number of senior citizens each year. As the number of seniors has grown, so has the need for providing transportation for elderly residents. This supplemental transportation program to be offered by Senior and Disability Services will strive to meet the demand for getting these seniors to their doctor appointments, the grocery store and other locations help to enhance their life and legacy.

• Consent was given to a Resolution increasing the purchasing authority conferred to the chief financial officer by resolution R20-249 to purchase an additional 18 body-worn cameras and related software and equipment for the Aurora Police Department by $151,372.52.

City government of Aurora documents show the Police Department requests that the Council increase the amount it authorized in Resolution R20-249 to allow for the purchase of an additional 18 body-worn cameras, including hardware and software components, installation and training services, and warranty. This increase is necessary due to newly hired officers within the Police Department and to conform with State requirements.

On October 27, 2020 resolution R20-0249 was approved by the City Council for the purchase of body-worn cameras and the supporting software for officers at the Police Department.

Resolution R21-158 approved the purchase of an additional thirty-five (35) Body-Worn cameras to comply with Illinois Public Act 101-0652 (“Safe-T Act”).

This resolution is requesting an additional eighteen (18) Body-Worn cameras for assignment to newly-hired police officers.

The new body-worn cameras and related software and equipment are being prorated across the remaining term of the existing contract with Axon through September 2026. The annual fees for these 18 Body Worn-Cameras and associated software and equipment is shown below:

The total (3 yrs.) cost are summarized below:

April 2023 $50,457.50

September 2024 $50,457.50

September 2025 $50,457.50

TOTAL $151,372.52

It is anticipated that American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal funding will allow for this Public Safety Expense in account 287-3536-421.74-99 (BWC) for 2023. Future years will be budgeted in the general fund 101-3536-421.74-99 (BWC).

Approval of this resolution for the additional purchase of body worn cameras and software will ensure compliance with the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act and all of the requirements set forth in the law. Additionally, it will provide greater transparency and accountability, further strengthening public trust in the Police Department.

• Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the director of the Purchasing Department to enter into an agreement with M/M Peters Construction, Inc., Aurora, Ill. in the amount of $73,032.31 for the replacement of concrete at Aurora Fire Department Station 8 apron.

City government of Aurora documents show the current apron at Fire Station 8 is degrading in front of the apparatus doors. This degrading concrete can cause damage to responding Fire and Medical units, producing costly repairs. The rigs drive over this area multiple times of day. And the public can be seen walking over this area raising concerns about their safety as well.

In February 2023 the City of Aurora, IL Engineering Division published a bid for the work to be performed this summer (Bid 23-16) the opening of the bid occurred on March 1,2023. Five bids were received with M/M Peters’ having the lowest qualifying bid, at $73,032.31 This will be a 3 phase project allowing the station to remain open and not lowering the quality of service to the surrounding community.

The Aurora City Council approved for this project as part of a decision package for the fiscal year 2023. City government staff members reviewed both Options provided and believe Option 2 would significantly disrupt and limit the ability of the Fire Department to provide the level of service the community is in need of. Therefore, City government staff members are recommending Option 1 in the amount of $73,032.31.

Funds are available for this project in account 340-3033-422.38-05.

The local preference ordinance did apply to this bid but did not impact the decision since the lowest, responsible bidder is an Aurora vendor.

This project, with a 3-phase pouring of the concrete will not have any noticeable impact on the Fire Departments response within the City of Aurora, IL. This project will save the city money in the long run due to the impact it will have with the vehicle repair cost.

• Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the acceptance of the bid proposal from Beary Landscape Management for mowing and landscaping maintenance of various Aurora Fire Department stations with the option for two(2) one year extensions.

City government of Aurora documents show the Fire Department is responsible for mowing and landscape maintenance of the areas around the fire stations. Mowing and maintenance includes 38,772 square yards of green space and right of way.

Lawn care has been traditionally performed by Firefighters while on duty has created multiple worker compensation claims, as well as overtime costs incurred by the department. The expense of maintaining lawn equipment has increased in recent years, as well as down time waiting on parts. Having a lawn contract will allow fire and EMS crews to concentrate on performing training, inspections, and providing the public the highest level of care possible.

A formal bid request was sent out for the mowing and landscape maintenance of the Fire stations for the 2023 season and included the option for two, one-year extensions. Responses were received from 9 vendors. Beary Landscaping Management from Lockport Ill. was the lowest responsible bidder who submitted bids for all tasks proposed. The bid did not allow for the award to be made to more than one contractor for both List A and List B services.

References from internal City of Aurora, Ill. Employees included Jim Birchall and Tim Forbes and reviews were positive. The contracted services will provide mowing services, shrub trimming and edging, and spreading of City supplied mulch as needed. The mowing season typically runs April to the end of October.

The Local Preference Ordinance did apply to this bid but did not impact the decision since no Aurora vendors responded.

A budget transfer has been submitted to fund the services in account 101-3033-422.36-15 ($18,720). Funds will be transferred from 101-3033-422.36-03 ($14,400.00) and 101-3033-422.38-05 ($3,400.00).

This resolution must be approved to contract for fire station mowing and landscaping maintenance, allowing firefighters to concentrate on providing fire and rescue service will help to keep the public safer in multiple ways. The most pronounce one would be in response times. Traditionally when firefighters are performing lawn duties the equipment would need to be secured prior to responding to emergency calls for service. This will also free up time for training, inspections, hydrant flushing and preplans.

• Consent was given to a Resolution to approve an intergovernmental agreement with Waubonsee Community College for the City of Aurora’s Youth Services Subdivision.

City government of Aurora documents show the City of Aurora’s Youth Services has provided quality programs for youth, including the Aurora Youth Council, summer camps, and more. The agreement with Waubonsee will assist the Youth Services subdivision and community partners to continue with the planning process to be able to provide youth programs throughout the year. This agreement can be renewed every year.

The proposed agreement allows the Youth Services subdivision and community partners, to provide which can include a meeting space for the Aurora Youth Council, an art camp, and much more. The locations of these programs will be determined in collaboration with Waubonsee Community College and their staff members.

This agreement is beneficial for the City of Aurora’s Youth Services subdivision and ensures quality programs can continue to be provided to students throughout Aurora.

These agreements will have a direct and positive impact on youth and their families as this will assist in continuing quality programming.

• Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the purchase of valve actuators from Dorner Company Inc. for installation and use at the City of Aurora water treatment plant in the not-to-exceed amount of $105,902..

City government of Aurora documents show the City of Aurora Water Treatment Plant filtration process operates continuously and is designed with numerous valves that control water flow through the process and also during the backwashing (cleaning) of each filter. The original plant design is comprised of eight filters, each of which has seven valves for these processes. The plant underwent an expansion in 2002 which added four additional filters that are of a different design and built with the valve actuator brand requested in this purchase.

A valve actuator is a mechanical/electrical component necessary for the automatic operation of each valve, i.e., opening, closing, or intermediate positioning. The valve actuators proposed for purchase will upgrade the current actuators on one filter. The current actuators have been in service 31 years and are now obsolete, with limited replacement/maintenance parts available. In addition, the original actuators are no longer manufactured as original equipment (Henry Pratt), thus a new actuator make/model has been sourced to retrofit onto the existing valves.

The Water Production Division seeks to complete the retrofit upgrade with actuators manufactured by AUMA, a leading industry manufacturer of valve actuators. The four plant expansion era filters were designed and built with AUMA actuators, which are still in service today. Thus, the end result will be the standardization of valve actuators with the AUMA brand.

Dorner Company Inc. (Dorner) is the sole source supplier for AUMA actuators in all markets in this area. AUMA has provided a confirmation letter. In addition, Dorner is an AUMA certified service center and will provide the necessary services for complete installation, testing, and operational start up for the new actuators.

The City of Aurora Code of Ordinances supports this purchase by 1) through standardization of existing equipment and 2) supply of such equipment from a sole source. Specifically, Chapter 2, Division 2, Section 2-335 Exceptions to Competitive Bidding Requirement: (a) Notwithstanding any provision of this division to the contrary, the competitive bidding procedures and requirements for labor, goods, equipment, and services generally subject to such requirements may be dispensed with in any of the following instances: (2) Standardized Equipment: When a commodity being purchased is standardized in a manner to be compatible with equipment or articles in existing City use and in order to obtain more functional or economic use of function from such existing equipment or articles together with such commodity; (3) Limited, Restricted, or Sole Source: When the product or service required is provided by only one (1) person.

A proposal from Dorner to supply and install various valve actuators is in the amount of $100,859. A 5% amount of $5043.00 is added to the requested amount for labor/installation contingencies, for a not-to-exceed purchase/installation amount of $105,902.00. Funding was approved for this purchase via a 2022 Decision Package and subsequent budget carryover and is available in account 510-4058-511-38-01.

• Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the acceptance of the bid proposal from Beary Landscape Management, for mowing and landscaping maintenance of various City parks and sites for a one year term with the option of two, one year extensions.

City government of Aurora documents show the City maintains numerous parks and park sites outside of Phillips Parks, which the maintenance includes mowing and landscaping. In order to sustain the high level of service as in past years, contracting private services has been essential in augmenting City crews. A decision package was submitted and approved. The last contract expired in 2022.

To establish a successor contract, the City advertised Bid 23-30, Parks Mowing and Landscape maintenance and received responses from A Plus AJ Landscaping(Aurora, Ill.), Tavarez & Sons(Aurora, Ill.), and Beary Landscape Management (Lockport, Ill.). Proposals were received and publicly opened on March 29th,2023.

Of the three bid proposals received, Beary Landscape Management submitted the lowest responsible bid for all items (List A- Smith Blvd. Medians, List B-Mastodon Island, List C-Wilder Park, List D-Garfield Park, List E- McCarty Park).

The contract is for an initial one year term with the option of two, one year renewals upon mutual consent of both parties.

This bid was subject to the Local Preference Ordinance but did not factor into the decision.

Funding for the mowing and landscape maintenance listed in Bid 23-30, is budgeted in 2023, and allocated in account 101-4440-451.38-34.

Neither Beary Landscape Management, A Plus AJ, or Tavarez & sons have outstanding debt with the City.

• Consent was given to a Resolution for the acceptance of bid pricing from contractors for streets center island landscape maintenance for a one-year contract with three optional one-year extensions upon mutual consent.

The purpose is to obtain City Council approval to accept bids for a one year contract with optional three 1-year extensions upon mutual consent from contractors for center island maintenance for City owned islands/medians.

City government of Aurora documents show there are several medians and center islands the City is responsible for ongoing maintenance. Landscape maintenance has previously been provided by private contractors. To maintain the highest level of service in previous years, contracting outside services is necessary to augment City crews.

The City solicited request for proposal for “Streets Center Island Landscape Maintenance” for City center islands and received bids from three companies. After checking references and receiving favorable responses, the following contractors are being recommended.

Langton Group, Woodstock, Ill. List: A, B

Cox Landscaping, Yorkville, Ill. List: C

The Street Department will be utilizing the Landscape Maintenance services of these contractors and have appropriated monies for these expenditures in the following account: 101-4060-431.38-34. The total amount spent each year is weather dependent. The 2023 budget for the accounted listed is an estimated $30,000.00.

This bid was subject to the Local Preference Ordinance. However, no local vendors submitted bids.

• Consent was given to a Resolution to award the Lincoln Avenue and Center Avenue Sewer Separation project in Ward 4 to Stokes Excavating, Inc. in the bid amount of $656,140.00.

The purpose is to install new storm sewer removing stormwater from the combined sewer system at several locations near Lincoln Ave and Center Ave.

City government of Aurora documents show the location of the sewer separation project is in Ward 4, along Lincoln Ave between 300 feet North of Center Ave to South Ave where an existing storm structure is installed from a previous sewer separation project. By tying in a new storm sewer line into the previously de-combined system, there will be a reduction in CSO, basement backups, and reduce the amount Fox Metro treats at the wastewater treatment plant. Lead water services encountered and disturbed during the construction process will be fully replaced up to the water meters. This project is part of the City’s Long-Term Control Plan for the area. Closures will be kept to a minimum during construction with adequate notification to residents when access to their driveways may be temporarily disturbed.

The proposed improvements have been publicly advertised and bid in conformance with City procedures. Four bids were received, opened, and read aloud on April 12th, 2023. The lowest responsible bid in the amount of ($656,140.00) was submitted by Stokes Excavating, Inc., 903 Daisyfield Rd, Rockford, Ill.. The low bidder, Stokes Excavating, Inc, has successfully completed similar projects for the City in the past.

The lead service line replacements ($192,530.00) will be funded with account 510-4058-511-73-02 (IC080) which has a 2023 budget amount of $11,950,000.00. The sewer separation improvements ($463,610.00) will be funded with account 281-1856-512-73-09 (B031) which has a 2023 budget amount of $2,550,000.00.

This project was subject to the Local Preference Ordinance, however no local contractors submitted.

There will be lane closures of Lincoln Ave during the duration of the project. Water shutdowns during the project will be planned and coordinated with the local businesses and residences to minimize any impact. Impacts to traffic and local residents will be kept to a minimum.

• Consent was given to an Ordinance amending two sections of Chapter 2 of the Code of Ordinances pertaining to the City’s officers and departments.

City government of Aurora documents show in 2009, the City underwent a substantial re-organization and re-aligned several city departments, but did not update the code. In 2017, the city again undertook a substantial re-organization and updated provisions in Chapter 2 to codify the changes. City government staff members committed to keeping the code updated following the 2017 changes, this proposal seeks to update the Community Services Department and Finance Department to reflect organizational changes.

The changes proposed for the Community Services Department are reflective of departmental needs following the most recent re-organization of this department in 2021. There are four divisions within Community Services, seven subdivisions, the Customer Service Center and the Financial Empowerment Center (FEC). Between the divisions and subdivisions in this department, there are significant community outreach components. After nearly two years in operation under the new structure, it was determined the department would benefit from a second in command, a director of Community Services, similar to what was done for the Development Services, Public Works, and Public Properties departments.

The changes proposed for the Finance Department are to align the city code with the current pay plan. There are no significant changes, just a realignment to streamline the reporting structure of the divisions and subdivisions. No personnel changes or departmental additions, just a realignment.

Approval of these changes will align the city code with the budget and pay plan.

• Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing and directing the filing of a written protest to Will County with respects to the Map Amendment Petition rezoning the property from R-1 Single Family Residential to I-1 Limited Industrial or any other similar zoning relief filed by Sergiu Tugutchi on vacant property along Wolf’s Crossing Road, east of Soccer Drive, in Wheatland Township.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose for this resolution is to formally object to the rezoning of the vacant property south of Wolf’s Crossing Road, just east of Soccer Drive, in unincorporated Will County, within the City of Aurora’s Planning Jurisdiction from R-1 Single Family Residential to I-1 Limited Industrial.

The Property is vacant land on the south side of Wolf’s Crossing Road, just east of Soccer Drive in unincorporated Will County. It is zoned R-1 Single-family Residential within the County.

The Petitioner, Sergiu Tugutchi, is requesting approval of a Rezoning. The details include rezoning the Property from R-1 Single-family Residential to I-1 Limited Industrial to operate a truck repair facility.

City government staff members have reviewed the Will County map amendment (rezoning) petition, submitted by Sergiu Tugutchi.

In the last 20 years, this area has transformed from a mostly agricultural area into a now majority residential area with associated community facilities (religious institutions, parks, and schools) with some smaller commercial and retail. Wolf’s Crossing Road, which is a two-lane road along this stretch, is the major east-west road serving the nearby residential neighborhoods and a larger area.

This area is designated on the City’s Comprehensive Plan as industrial, however, it has traditionally seen small contractor uses or light industrial uses. Much of the area near or within proximity of the Property at one time was shown as future industrial use on the city of Aurora and the city of Naperville comprehensive plans. However, as stated earlier, over the last few decades the area has become predominately residential and both City’s comprehensive plans have been updated to support this growth.

The I-1 Limited Industrial zoning is primarily intended to accommodate low-impact industrial uses. However, City government staff members do not feel that the proposed truck repair facility use is meeting the intent of the zoning as it is an intensification of the uses, and it is not in keeping with the trend and character of the surrounding land uses.

While the Will County 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan shows Wolf’s Crossing Road as a Freight Route, the plan also identifies it as a five-lane road and the City of Aurora and Wheatland Township has no current plans for road widening or improvements. As this property will have direct access onto Wolf’s Crossing Road, this unimproved section will bear the burden of all the additional heavy truck traffic and will negatively impact the area causing traffic congestion as trucks enter and leave the property.

Therefore, City government staff members are not in support of the map amendment petition for the truck repair facility use as this is an intensification of land use, would worsen traffic conditions on Wolf’s Crossing Road and does not meet the City’s Physical Development Policies.

Policies and guidelines:

The City government staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following physical development policies not being met:

12.0 To plan and provide for the growth of the City through the integration of land use patterns and functions that promote complementary interactions between different land use components.

12.1(7) To protect residential development from the negative effects of high volume traffic corridors and incompatible land uses.

40.0 To plan and promote industrial, office, office-research development in areas suited to such development and to minimize the negative impacts of industries on surrounding land uses and the environment.

• Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing and directing the filing of a written protest to Will County with respect to the Special Use Petition filed by Cool Fox, LLC, for a Truck Terminal at 10205 and 10155 Mandel Street in Wheatland Township.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose for this resolution is to formally object to the Special Use for a truck terminal at 10205 and 10155 Mandel Street, in unincorporated Will County, within the City of Aurora’s Planning Jurisdiction.

The Property is vacant land at 10205 and 10155 Mandel Street in unincorporated Will County. It is zoned I-1 Limited Industrial within the County.

The Petitioner, Cool Fox, LLC., is requesting approval of a Special Use. The Special Use Permit is to operate a truck terminal and an associated corporate office building on this property.

City government staff members have reviewed the Will County Special Use Petition submitted by Cool Fox, LLC.

In the last 20 years, this area has transformed from a mostly agricultural area into a now majority residential area with associated community facilities (religious institutions, parks, and schools) with some smaller commercial and retail.

The Arrowhead Industrial Park (of which this project is proposed) has been in existence since the 1970s. This industrial park is designated on the City’s Comprehensive Plan as industrial, however, the park has traditionally seen small contractor uses or light industrial uses. Much of the area near or within proximity to the Industrial Park at one time was shown as future industrial use on the city of Aurora and the city of Naperville comprehensive plans. However, as stated earlier, over the last few decades the area has become predominately residential and both City’s comprehensive plans have been updated to support this growth.

Wolf’s Crossing Road is a major east-west road serving the nearby residential neighborhoods. The addition of truck terminals and its associated truck traffic on Wolf’s Crossing Road would consist of an intensification of the uses within this industrial park and is not in keeping with the trend and character of the surrounding land uses.

Therefore, City government staff members are not in support of the Special Use Petition for the truck terminal as this is an intensification of land use, would worsen traffic conditions on Wolf’s Crossing Road and does not meet the City’s physical development policies.

Policies and guidelines:

The City government staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following physical development policies not being met:

12.0 To plan and provide for the growth of the City through the integration of land use patterns and functions that promote complementary interactions between different land use components.

12.1(7) To protect residential development from the negative effects of high volume traffic corridors and incompatible land uses.

40.0 To plan and promote industrial, office, office-research development in areas suited to such development and to minimize the negative impacts of industries on surrounding land uses and the environment.

City government staff members recommend the Resolution authorizing and directing the filing of a written protest to Will County with respect to the Special Use Petition filed by Cool Fox, LLC, for a Truck Terminal at 10205 and 10155 Mandel Street in Wheatland Township

• Final approval for items on the consent agenda are set to be made at the May 9 Aurora City Council meeting.
• Information was shared about the availability of the eligibility study and report, and the redevelopment plan and project for the proposed Cross Street TIF District.

City government of Aurora documents show in compliance with the TIF Act, this agenda item shall serve as the City’s announcement of its intent to establish a Cross Street Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District. This announcement provides for a review period of the Redevelopment Project and Plan and Eligibility Report for the proposed Cross Street TIF District.

The parcels are immediately adjacent to the City’s downtown fringe within the Current TIF #3., The proposed TIF District is east of Middle Avenue, north of Company 251, west of S. River Street, and south of Cross Street.

The area location described above has been underutilized and blighted for decades. Within the boundary of the proposed Cross Street TIF is 110 Cross; a long vacant industrial/warehouse building purchased approximately four years ago by JH Real Estate.

Constructing a new multi-family residential development near downtown, has been a consistent recommendation of numerous City long-range planning documents for decades. Combined with the recommendations of the Downtown Housing Study (2019), the growing demand for rental housing, the redevelopment of long vacant buildings, the time for implementing the City’s vision is here.

On March 4, 2023, a redevelopment agreement was approved between the developer, JH Real Estate Partners LLC, and the City of Aurora (resolution R2023-076, Legistar #23-0190). Per the RDA the City will create a TIF with 70% of the benefit going to the developer.

To establish a TIF District (“Redevelopment Project Area” or “RPA), Illinois municipalities must adopt several documents including a Redevelopment Plan and an Eligibility Report.

The creation of a TIF district requires several steps. The first public step is the announcement of the availability of the Eligibility Study and Report, and the Redevelopment Plan and Project for the proposed Cross Street TIF District. It is important to note that the actual announcement is done by the full City Council at its May 9, 2023, meeting. Further steps associated with the creation of the TIF will include the provision of mailed notices, public notices, a Joint Review Board meeting, and a public hearing. The City’s Corporation Counsel has engaged Klein Thorpe and Jenkins to serve as the City’s Special Counsel to support this TIF formation process.

Making this announcement will begin the formal process of the proposed Cross Street TIF District. Failure to make this announcement will mean that this TIF District will not be created and needed financing for future development will not be created.

Recommendation:

City government staff members recommend the Committee forward this item to the City Council for formal announcement on May 9, 2023.

• Information was shared about a public hearing to be held on May 9, 2023 for the creation of proposed River Vine Tax Increment Finance District.

The purpose is to conduct a Public Hearing to be held on May 9, 2023, by the City Council for the creation of the River Vine Tax Increment Finance District.

City government of Aurora documents show the creation of this TIF District is part of an existing RDA approved with resolution R22-023 on February 8, 2022, between the City of Aurora and a private developer for the highly visible redevelopment on the west bank of the Fox River of the long vacant parking lot at 309 North River Street.