Aurora City Council honors Jim Pilmer, Officer ‘Sully’

By Jason Crane

Mayor of Aurora, Richard Irvin, and members of the Aurora City Council, honored Jim Pilmer at the Aurora City Council Committee of the Whole meeting, Tuesday, Dec. 19.

Executive director of the Fox Valley Park District, Jim Pilmer is retiring after eight years.

Mayor Irvin read a proclamation stating October 22, Pilmer’s birthday, as Jim Pilmer Day in the city of Aurora.

Pilmer, a lifelong Auroran, was a department head for the City of Aurora government from 1998 to 2015. He became executive director for the Park District in 2015.

Mayor Irvin presented the Mayor’s Award of Excellence to Aurora Police Officer William “Sully” Sullivan for his service as sergeant-at-arms at the Aurora City Council meetings. Officer Sullivan is being promoted to Sergeant with the APD.

The presentations can be viewed on the city government of Aurora’s YouTube page after the 10 minute mark by clicking here.

• Following the Aurora City Council Committee of the Whole meeting was a Special City Council meeting.

The City Council approved the following agenda items:

• Approved was a Resolution to accept a contract with Creos Experts-Conseils Inc. to lease “Sonic Runway,” an installation for Aurora’s October 2024 Public Art Light Festival.
• Approved was a Resolution to accept a contract with Wireframe Studio Inc. to lease two installations for Aurora’s October 2024 Public Art Light Festival.
• Approved was an ordinance changing the name of Molitor Road to Diehl Road between Felten Road and County Line Road.

Kane County reached out to the City’s Zoning and Planning Division regarding a street name discrepancy between the City and the County’s records. After researching the discrepancy, there are not any records that show that the City formally changed the name of the street from Molitor Road to Deihl Road. Therefore, this ordinance is formally changing the street name from Molitor Road to Diehl Road.

Staff members have reviewed the Street Name Change petition and have determined that it meets the applicable codes and ordinances.

This street name change will allow several properties to keep their existing address being off Diehl Road.

• Approved was a resolution authorizing a one-year extension of an agreement with Vision M.A.I., LLC for the governmental affairs consulting services of Bukola Bello for lobbying services on behalf of the city government of Aurora.

City government of Aurora documents show Vision M.A.I., Bukola Bello, has been representing the City of Aurora since mid-2020. Initially the City’s goal with growing the lobby team was to expand outreach efforts in Springfield and grow relationships with the various Caucus’. The circumstances of 2020 upended the City government’s initial plan, and Bukola began to work with City officials on several legislative issues and was a key player in navigating the changing landscape in Springfield during and following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2023 session was fruitful for the city of Aurora. Thanks to the efforts of the City’s State Lobby Team (Vision M.A.I. and Roger C. Marquardt & Co.), Four pieces of staff member-initiated legislation passed. Additionally, Aurora government documents state that Bukola and her team continue to provide timely and vital support to the City through lobbying efforts, facilitating meetings with key stakeholders and attending meetings and hearings on behalf of Aurora’s government.

A brief summary of accomplishments are listed below:

• Drones as First Responders Act
• Police Training — Out-of-State Waivers
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Limestone Material
• Department of Public Health – Plumber Agreements
• Scheduled and attended meetings with State Agencies
• Represented the city during hearings as needed
• Connected various staff members to Legislators
• Represented the city during negotiations related to bills listed above

Staff members are requesting a 3.5% increase for the 2024 calendar year, at a rate of $6,365.25 per month. Funds are budgeted out of account #101-1002-413-32.20.

Aside from the rate increase, there are no other significant changes to the 2024 agreement.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing a one-year extension of an agreement with Roger C. Marquardt & Co. for the governmental affairs consulting and lobbying services of Scott Marquardt on behalf of the city government of Aurora.

The purpose of this item is to request the City Council’s approval to renew the agreement for governmental affairs services of Roger C. Marquardt & Co. for the 2024 year.

City government of Aurora documents show the city of Aurora added Roger C. Marquardt governmental affairs on a limited basis in 2022, and the City Council then approved an agreement for all of 2023.

2023 was challenging but a productive year for Aurora. Below are some highlights of accomplishments and benefits over the past year.

• Supported Aurora’s legislative efforts on four pieces of staff-initiated legislation.
• Continued to work on behalf of Aurora to access funds allocated through the State Budget.
• Worked on behalf of the Aurora Fire Department (AFD) on proposed legislation that would impact the department.
• Worked on behalf of the AFD on policy issues impacting operations.
• Arranged meetings with legislators and State agencies on matters important to Aurora.
• Coordinated City Council Members visits with State Legislators while in Springfield.
• Arranged meetings and follow up communication with the DuPage County Board Chair and staff.
• Work with our County Boards on Aurora-specific matters.
• Sends weekly report on Springfield happenings to City Council members and staff.

The agreement before the Council proposes a 3.5% percent increase to $6,365.25 per month. Aside from the proposed rate increase, the agreement does not have any other changes.

Funds have been budgeted in account #101-1002-413-32.20.

This Resolution, should have a positive impact on the city government of Aurora.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the third amendment to the second amended and restated lease between Holcim-Mamr, Inc. (Holcim), formerly known as LaFarge Aggregates Illinois, Inc., and the City of Aurora.
  Amendment of the City’s existing lease agreement with Holcim-Mamr, Inc. (Holcim), formerly known as LaFarge Aggregates Illinois, Inc. to extend certain lease internal deadlines as well as acknowledge price increases from the previous lease.
  The purpose is to afford the City government additional time to secure regulatory approvals required for it to undertake a more cost-effective means of storing lime residual material produced in the City’s water treatment process.
  City government of Aurora documents show all residents of the City of Aurora are provided with potable water from the city-owned and operated water treatment plant (WTP). A key, primary treatment process utilized at the WTP is lime softening. This process removes and collects the solid particles that are present in the raw water sources (the Fox River and groundwater), as well as chemically softening the water to remove dissolved minerals and metals, which provides customers more aesthetically pleasing drinking water. As the solid particles and precipitates are removed by the clarification process, these treatment by-products are concentrated and removed for ultimate disposal.
  Since the WTP’s construction in 1992, the lime residual material has been disposed by landfilling at great annual expense to the City. In 2012, through an Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) permit, the Water Production Division (WPD) began a program to dispose of the lime residual material via land application on agricultural fields. Land application allows a beneficial reuse of the waste product and reduces the cost of ultimate disposal by approximately 25%. As this process is still expensive, starting in 2006, a more efficient method of ultimate disposal was investigated regarding placing the lime residual in repurposed portions of a limestone mine.
  The Holcim Limestone Mine (Holcim Mine) is at the intersection of Interstate 88 and IL Highway 25. The mine is approximately 200 to 400 feet below grade, is in both Aurora and North Aurora, and is mainly used to produce limestone and dolomite aggregates for construction uses. The portion of the mine in Aurora is typically referred to as the south mine and has two distinct levels with a third level to be constructed in the future. The first two levels of the mine are almost spent (completely excavated) and thus are no longer useful for material production.
  As such, the City and Holcim have been in discussions for quite some time to develop a plan to allow the lime residual material to be placed into the first two levels of the south mine as a method of ultimate disposal. In order to proceed with the placement of the material, a permit from IEPA is required. Through a lengthy process and via Permit No. UIC-015-COA, the IEPA approved the underground injection of the lime residual into the spent portions of the Holcim Mine as a method of ultimate disposal. This permit became effective on August 24, 2015.
  Shortly thereafter in spring 2016, the City became aware of an alternate transfer method to physically place the lime residual material into the Holcim Mine at a substantially lower cost. However, this alternative method requires additional regulatory approvals and ultimately would require Holcim to change some of its mining processes and vacate a portion of its leasehold.
  The City and Holcim entered into an amended lease in 2019 and then again in 2021 that specifically contemplated use of this alternate method upon future regulatory approvals. The agreement contemplated the City providing notice to Holcim by June 30, 2022, if it wished to discontinue its existing disposal methods. Because the City had not received approval for the alternative method, it was not in either party’s best interest to allow for the lease to expire. In June of 2022 a lease amendment/extension was agreed to through December 31, 2023.
  Legislative approval was received via HB 3095 being passed by the Illinois General Assembly in May of 2023 (Public Act 103-0333) and signed by governor Pritzker July 28, 2023, which requires the Illinois Pollution Control Board (IPCB) to adopt rules for the placement of municipal utility-generated limestone residuals in a limestone mine that is in whole or in part below the municipality, effective January 1, 2024. A proposed lease extension through December 31, 2025, allows for the IPCB rule-making process to occur as well as permitting, design engineering, and related construction.
  The amended lease extends the lease/termination date to December 31, 2025. In addition, should the City and Holcim succeed in getting regulatory approvals, the amended lease allows for the continued cost share of the initial capital cost. The original agreement capped the City contribution at $550,000, however due to inflation, the estimated initial capital estimate has risen to approximately $1.3M and the agreement now caps the City contribution at $650,000.
  The City previously agreed to pay Holcim $19.00 per wet ton for hauling and placing the lime residual material in the Holcim Mine. Due to cost-of-living increases contemplated in the previous lease the amended lease set the 2022 value at $20.71 per wet ton and will be further adjusted annually in the event the storage facility becomes operational.
  The proposed resolution authorizes an amendment to the lease agreement allowing the City additional time to complete the regulatory approvals for the alternative transfer method described above as well as adjustments to the costs due to inflation.
  Approval of this resolution will extend the existing lease between the City and Holcim while both parties work cooperatively to pursue regulatory approval.
• Approved was an Ordinance amending Chapter 49 of the Code of Ordinances, City of Aurora, by modifying the zoning map to rezone property at 316 South LaSalle Street, from R-4, Two Family Dwelling District, to R-3, One Family Dwelling District.
  The Petitioner, James Larson, is requesting downzone the property at 316 South LaSalle Street from R-4, Two Family Dwelling District to R-3, One Family Dwelling District. which includes converting the property from a Multi-Family Dwelling (1140) use to a One Family Dwelling (1110) use.
  City government of Aurora documents show the Property is zoned R-4, Two-Family Dwelling District. The structure has four dwelling units. The structure is a Multi-Family (1140) use, which is legally non-conforming in the R-4 zoning district. The Comprehensive Plan designates the Property as low density residential. Per O78-4739, the South Broadway Area Neighborhood, which is a generally residential area, and which includes the Property, was downzoned from a majority R-5, Multiple-Family Dwelling zoning, to its current mix of R-3, and R-4 zoning.
  The Petitioner, James Larson, is requesting to downzone the property at 316 S. LaSalle St from its current R-4, Two Family Dwelling District to R-3, One Family Dwelling District. The current Multiple-Family Dwelling (1140) use is not permitted in the R-4 zoning district and is considered non-conforming. As part of this downzoning approval process, the structure is to be converted to a One Family Dwelling (1110) use, which is permitted in the R-3 zoning district.
  Staff members have reviewed the Downzoning 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.
  Due public notice was given for the public hearing on this matter.
  Findings of fact:
  1) Is the proposal in accordance with all applicable official physical development policies and other related official plans and policies of the City of Aurora?
  Staff members feel that the proposal to downzone this multi-family dwelling to single-family dwelling is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan’s designation of the Property as low density residential. In addition, staff members feel that the single-family dwelling use is consistent with the nature of the neighborhood’s built character as one or two family dwellings.
  2) Does the proposal represent the logical establishment and/or consistent extension of the requested classification in consideration of the existing land uses, existing zoning classifications, and essential character of the general area of the property in question?
  By downzoning the Property from R-4 to R-3, the structure is required to be converted from its existing, non-conforming multi-family use to a single-family use, which is a permitted use by right. With this in mind, Staff members feel the proposal to downzone the property to the R-3 zoning district represents a logical and consistent extension of the existing land uses, existing zoning classifications, and general area of the property in question.
  3) Is the proposal consistent with a desirable trend of development in the general area of the property in question, occurring since the property in question was placed in its present zoning classification, desirability being defined as the trend’s consistency with applicable official physical development policies and other related official plans and policies of the City of Aurora?
  Staff members feel the proposal is consistent with the general character of the surrounding neighborhood’s built environment as that of single-family and two-family residential dwellings. The single-family dwelling is also consistent with the Comprehensive Plan’s designation of the Property, as well as the surrounding neighborhood, as Low Density Residential.
  4) Will the rezoning allows uses which are more suitable than uses permitted under the existing zoning classification?
  Staff members feel the rezoning allows for a single-family use, which is permitted and is a more suitable use in the R-3 zoning district than the existing multi-family use, which is not permitted in the current R-4 zoning district.
  5) Is the rezoning a consistent extension of the existing land uses, existing zoning classifications, and essential character of the general area?
  Staff members feel the rezoning is a consistent extension of the existing land uses, existing zoning classifications, and essential character of the general area. The R-3 zoning is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan’s designation of the Property as low density residential, as is converting the structure to a single-family use, which is permitted. The single-family use is also consistent with the surrounding neighborhood as generally built for single-family and two-family residential structures.
  Policies and guidelines:
  The staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following physical development policies:
  14.1 (2): To promote the preservation and revitalization of older residential neighborhoods and commercial areas within the City of Aurora.
  22.1 (1): To achieve appropriate zoning protection for residential areas designated in the land use plan.
  22.1 (5): To recognize the unique characteristics individual neighborhoods and promote their positive attributes.
  
• Approved was a Resolution authorizing a professional services agreement with Intergraph Corporation (“Hexagon”) of Madison, Alabama, for a computer-aided dispatch (CAD) resident administrator (RSA), in a contract amount not to exceed $204,587.00.
  City government of Aurora documents show Resolution R22-367allowed for a CAD RSA to be onsite for one year to provide improvements to Hexagon CAD solution.
  The City of Aurora IT Department is seeking continued assistance from Hexagon Safety and Infrastructure to support Infrastructure technical workload and projects as identified in the statement of work. Duties include but are not limited to:

1. Single technical point of contact for logging and resolving system issues
2. Creating custom reports for the CAD system
3. Work with the customer’s systems administration staff members to manage and work with the Hexagon systems as directed by the customer.
4. Provide setup, configuration, database backups, database performance, and general Hexagon System administration duties.
5. Perform Hexagon CAD-MPS server setup and configuration.
6. Manage the CAD-MPS system security and access to the Hexagon System per Customer instructions and security plan.
7. Develop and maintain Hexagon System Support procedures as needed.
8. Perform the first level of diagnostics for failures, identifying hardware or software problems
9. Perform routine, daily operational tasks applicable to Hexagon System operations, such as purging system log files, checking database size, archiving data, the status of interfaces, and remote connections
10. Perform the scheduling and administration of the CAD-MPS server backups and recovery of data and configuration files per the Customer’s guidelines
11. Change, customize and manage user-configurable forms for the CAD-MPS software (where possible)
12. Monitor Hexagon System loading and efficient guide use of equipment and software
13. Monitor and adjust CAD database system parameters and Hexagon system operations for peak performance
14. Assist customer training staff members in the development of workflows, operating procedures to improve dispatcher efficiency or deploy new functionality
15. Install and administer operating system software on CAD-MPS servers related to the use of the Hexagon CAD-MPS system or utilities and service packs as purchased from Hexagon to maintain the system.
16. Administer CAD user accounts and passwords as directed by the Customer’s system administrator
17. Aid in installing Hexagon CAD application software upgrades (software supplied under separate Software Maintenance Agreements). Since CAD interface software upgrades can be a significant work effort on an active system, additional resources will be needed to handle the workload. Hexagon can provide quotes for these services as needed.
18. Train the customer’s technical staff members for backup Hexagon System Administration duties via hands-on, daily work apprenticeships
19. Document any system anomalies for inclusion into periodic site reports as requested
20. Conduct Operating System patch and Service Pack testing and deployment for CAD servers as well as provide support of Customer IT team efforts to certify patches and updates
21. Participate in CAD application update testing and deployment
22. System reliability monitoring
23. Complex issue troubleshooting and resolution
24. Support for Disaster Recovery testing
25. Manage Hexagon System problems with immediate communications to Hexagon headquarters and access to internal developers, systems engineers, and hardware professionals
26. Provide the interface to the Hexagon product development process to promote future software features to enhance site operations
27. Provide the interface with Hexagon second-level engineers and software Implementation Engineers to expedite on-site support and answer complex system questions or configuration issues.
    One of the guiding principles of the IT Division evolution outlined in the Technology Strategic Plan is the “One IT” concept, which focuses on creating cooperative and collaborative IT service provision. A critical component of this model was maintaining service levels while seeking opportunities to enhance Public Safety Operations.
    Over the past year, Infrastructure has significantly matured and expanded its capacity. Unfortunately, due to turn-over and the uniqueness of the processes required to support Public Safety technology and business processes, the IT department will need backfill with a designated Hexagon resource.
    During the past year, the RSA consultant has proved to be very successful for the Public Safety and played an integral role in improving the overall CAD environment by fixing software issues, working with APD staff members to provide process improvements as well as implement larger solutions like the move from the current Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) solution to the mandated National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) and the configuration and testing of the workstations in the new Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) / 911 Call Center.
    The benefits include maintaining Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with stakeholders while completing tasks on PMO projects without sacrificing quality or compromising timelines. These benefits align with CoA proactive strategy that supports city goals; strengthens communication and processes across stakeholders.
    Hexagon originally quoted the CAD RSA at $250,000 annually. City IT staff members were able to negotiate down to $204,587.00 which represents a 19% discount and equates to an hourly rate of $93.44. This is a 5% increase from 2023.
    A budget transfer has been completed to 101-1282-419.32-80 (Consulting Fees).
    IT support for critical public safety process will be negatively impacted without the support of this specific resource.

• Approved was an Ordinance approving the 2023 Edition of the FoxWalk Overlay District Design Guidelines Intent, Rules and Regulations.
  This will replace the current FoxWalk Overlay District Design Guidelines Intent, Rules and Regulations.
  City government of Aurora documents show in 1998, the FoxWalk Overlay District Design Review Committee was created to oversee development within the FoxWalk Overlay District. Per the Aurora Zoning Ordinance, Design Guidelines are required for overlay districts, which are used to promote and guide redevelopment of downtown buildings and vacant lots in a manner that protects the historic character of the downtown. The guidelines guide staff members and the Design Review Committee on reviewing Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior changes within the FoxWalk Overlay District. The last revision to the Design Guidelines was in 2008, when the City underwent an update process to better guide redevelopment of downtown Aurora in a manner that would result in restoration projects and new development that reflect the highest standards of design and execution.
  The proposed update clarifies ambiguous language, expands areas to include more specific guidance, updates the streetscape improvements to coordinate with existing efforts, and incorporates recent developments in best practices of preservation, building technology, and planning law.
  Policies and guidelines:
  The proposed update provides additional guidance to business and property owners and allows additional flexibility while still preserving the unique character of Aurora’s downtown.
• Approved was an Ordinance establishing a Conditional Use Planned Development, approving the Prairie Meadows Plan Description and amending Chapter 49 of the Code of Ordinances, City of Aurora, by modifying the zoning map to an underlying zoning of R-1(C) One-Family Dwelling District and OS-1(C) Conservation, Open Space, and Drainage District, OS-2(C) Open Space and Recreation District with a Conditional Use Planned Development for the property on the north side of Prairie Street, west of N. Kingsway Drive
  The Petitioner, Lennar Homebuilders, is requesting the Establishment of a Conditional Use Planned Development, and to change the underlying zoning district from R-1 One-Family Dwelling District to R-1(C) One-Family Dwelling District and OS-1(C) Conservation, Open Space, and Drainage District, OS-2(C) Open Space and Recreation District with a Conditional Use Planned Development on the property on the north side of Prairie Street, west of North Kingsway Drive which includes the development of a 74 lot age targeted ranch-style single family subdivision.
  City government of Aurora documents show the Property is vacant land with R-1 One-Family Dwelling zoning. Most of the land is owned by the West Aurora School District #129. The other portion of the Property is owned by Scott Voris, an adjacent property owner, who is selling a portion of the lot. The School District bought this land is 2002 for the purpose of building a middle school on the property. Since then, the West Aurora School District rebuilt Greenman Middle School, therefore, there was no need for the school district to keep this property. Earlier this year, the School Distict the did a request for proposal (RFP) to sell the property and Lennar Homebuilders was awarded the RFP by the school district board.
  The Conditional Use Planned Development and the Preliminary Plat and Plan are being reviewed concurrently under separate actions.
  The Petitioner is requesting the establishment of a Conditional Use Planned Development with underlying R-1 One-Family Dwelling District, OS-1 Conservation, Open Space, and Drainage District, and OS-2 Open Space and Recreation District zoning. The Plan Description allows for modifications to the bulk restrictions, building standards, and to the Subdivision Control Ordinance. Specifically, it allows for the reduction of lot size, width, and the front and side yard setbacks. It also allows for the establishment a higher minimum floor area for one story dwellings, the establishment of a basement requirement for those lots where basements are feasible and the establishment of a requirement for a 4-foot garage extension for those lots where basements are not feasible. It also requires the developer to contribute funds for future road improvements to Prairie Street.
  Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting approval of a Preliminary Plat and Plan for Prairie Meadows Subdivision. The proposal is to construct an age targeted ranch-style home community consisting of 74 single-family lots. This subdivision is intended to be a maintenance free living administered by the Homeowner’s Association. The proposed residential lot size ranges from 8,001 sq. ft. to 11,943 sq. ft. with a minimum of 60 feet in width.
  The City’s Comprehensive Plan designates this property as low-density residential, being between 0-5 dwelling unit per acre. The gross density for this development is 2.0 dwelling units per acre which is in conformance of the City’s Comprehensive Plan.
  The Petitioner is also proposing a 1.45-acre park site. In addition to preserving the existing wetland that is on the northeast portion of the property, there are four detention facilities being constructed as part of this development.
  A full access into this subdivision will be constructed on Prairie Street, directly across from Rockwell Road. In addition, a connection to the dead-end at S. Constitution Drive to the north, and to the dead-end at Kenilworth Place to the east is being provided for street network connectivity.
  Preliminary Landscaping and Building Elevations are in the packet but will be reviewed at time of Final Plat and Plan time.
  Staff members have reviewed the Conditional Use Planned Development petition and is in support of this development.
  Over the last year, staff members have been working collaboratively with the West Aurora School District and the Developer to create a high-quality development project. The Subdivision has been designed so that all of the adjacent properties abut open space or a detention facility to allow for some buffering to the newly created residential lots. The Petitioner is also working on a tree survey along the boundaries of the property and wetland to save many of the good quality trees on the property.
  Staff members believe that this is not only compatible but complementary to the surrounding subdivisions as it gives a variety of housing types and meets the needs of homeowners looking for one-story detached homes with maintenance free living.
  Staff members have the following comments regarding the findings of facts:
  Conditional Use:

1. The project will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, morals, comfort or general welfare as the development is complementary to the surrounding residential properties while providing a new housing type within the City.
2. The conditional use will not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property in the immediate vicinity or diminish or impair property values as this development is a similar use to the other surrounding single-family subdivision.
3. The development will not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of surrounding properties for uses permitted in the district as and this development is compatible with the already established as residential subdivision.
4. There is adequate utilities and access to serve the project. The proposed development is also constructing on-site detention which will have a positive impact on the surrounding area.
5. The project does provide adequate ingress/egress. This development will have access from Prairie Street which is a major collector road. In addition, a connection to the dead-end at S. Constitution Drive to the north, and to the dead-end at Kenilworth Place to the east is being provided for street network connectivity.
6. The Conditional Use in all other respects conforms to the applicable regulations of the zoning districts.
   Rezoning
7. Staff members have noted below the physical development policies that the proposal meets.
8. The proposal does represent the logical establishment of the land use as the zoning is similar to and the land use is the same use as the surrounding properties.
9. The proposal is consistent with a desirable trend of development in the area as this area is primarily residential and it this property has been designated on the City’s Comprehensive Plan as low density residential which is consistent with the development.
10. The rezoning will allow uses that are more suitable than the existing zoning classification as it will match the use of the property with the zoning.
11. The rezoning is consistent with the existing area as the proposal is in keeping with the residential, park and open space uses.
    Public Input: Due public notice was given for the public hearing on this matter. On September 20, 2023, the developer held an open house to introduce the product to the neighbors. In addition, staff members have fielded a few public inquiries on this petition since the public notice have been sent out.
    Policies and guidelines:
    The staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following Physical Development Policies:
    11.1(3) To encourage new development contiguous to existing development.
    11.1(5) To guide and promote development to areas where public utilities, public roads, and municipal services are either available or planned.
    12.1(3) To encourage residential development in close proximity to places of work, shopping and recreation.
    20.0 To insure the provision of decent housing and a quality living environment for every resident of Aurora.
    21.1(2) To promote a wide variety of housing types.
    22.1(1) To achieve appropriate zoning protection for residential areas designated in the land use plan.

• Approved was a Resolution approving a Preliminary Plan and Plat for Prairie Meadows subdivision on the north side of Prairie Street, west of North Kingsway Drive.
  The Petitioner, Lennar Homebuilders, is requesting approval of a Preliminary Plan and Plat for Prairie Meadows Subdivision on the north side of Prairie Street, west of North Kingsway Drive which includes the development of a 74 lot age targeted ranch-style single family subdivision.
  City government of Aurora documents show the Property is vacant land with R-1 One-Family Dwelling zoning. Most of the land is owned by the West Aurora School District #129. The other portion of the Property is owned by Scott Voris, an adjacent property owner, who is selling a portion of the lot. The School District bought this land is 2002 for the purpose of building a middle school on the property. Since then, the West Aurora School District rebuilt Greenman Middle School, therefore, there was no need for the school district to keep this property. Earlier this year, the School Distict the did a request for proposal (RFP) to sell the property and Lennar Homebuilders was awarded the RFP by the school district board.
  The Conditional Use Planned Development and the Preliminary Plat and Plan are being reviewed concurrently under separate actions.
  The Petitioner is requesting approval of a Preliminary Plat and Plan for Prairie Meadows Subdivision. The proposal is to construct an age targeted ranch-style home community consisting of 74 single-family lots. This subdivision is intended to be a maintenance free living administered by the Homeowner’s Association. The proposed residential lot size ranges from 8,001 sq. ft. to 11,943 sq. ft. with a minimum of 60 feet in width.
  The City’s Comprehensive Plan designates this property as low-density residential, being between 0-5 dwelling unit per acre. The gross density for this development is 2.0 dwelling units per acre which is in conformance of the City’s Comprehensive Plan.
  The Petitioner is also proposing a 1.45-acre park site. In addition to preserving the existing wetland that is on the northeast portion of the property, there are four detention facilities being constructed as part of this development.
  A full access into this subdivision will be constructed on Prairie Street, directly across from Rockwell Road. In addition, a connection to the dead-end at S. Constitution Drive to the north, and to the dead-end at Kenilworth Place to the east is being provided for street network connectivity.
  Preliminary Landscaping and Building Elevations are in the packet but will be reviewed at time of Final Plat and Plan time.
  Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting the establishment of a Conditional Use Planned Development with underlying R-1 One-Family Dwelling District, OS-1 Conservation, Open Space, and Drainage District, and OS-2 Open Space and Recreation District zoning. The Plan Description allows for modifications to the bulk restrictions, building standards, and to the Subdivision Control Ordinance. Specifically, it allows for the reduction of lot size, width, and the front and side yard setbacks. It also allows for the establishment a higher minimum floor area for one story dwellings, the establishment of a basement requirement for those lots where basements are feasible and the establishment of a requirement for a 4-foot garage extension for those lots where basements are not feasible. It also requires the developer to contribute funds for future road improvements to Prairie Street
  Staff members have reviewed the Preliminary Plan and 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.
  Policies and guidelines:
  The staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following Physical Development Policies:
  11.1(3) To encourage new development contiguous to existing development.
  11.1(5) To guide and promote development to areas where public utilities, public roads, and municipal services are either available or planned.
  12.1(3) To encourage residential development in close proximity to places of work, shopping and recreation.
  20.0 To insure the provision of decent housing and a quality living environment for every resident of Aurora.
  21.1(2) To promote a wide variety of housing types.
  22.1(1) To achieve appropriate zoning protection for residential areas designated in the land use plan.
• Approved was a Resolution authorizing execution of the first amendment to agreement between the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, the City of Aurora and the Quad County Urban League.
  The first amendment to agreement authorizes an extension of the original agreement for an additional six months, plus an additional $5,000 in grant funds, that will be used to continue to support operational costs for the Aurora Financial Empowerment Center’s (FEC) Supervitamin Effect workforce research study. The research study is to determine whether workforce development programs that integrate financial counseling at the Aurora Financial Empowerment Center into their service offerings improve a client’s financial goals.
  City government of Aurora documents show the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, Inc. (the “CFE Fund”) previously provided a grant to the Aurora Financial Empowerment Center (the “FEC”) to operate their Financial Empowerment Center. In January, 2023 an initial Supervitamin Effect workforce research study grant was provided (R23-045). Manpower Demonstration Research Corporation (MDRC), a nonprofit, nonpartisan education and social policy research organization, has been hired by the CFE Fund to undertake a study of whether, all else being equal, workforce development programs that integrate FEC financial counseling into their offerings achieve more or better outcomes than programs that do not. In 2022 the CFE Fund approved a new program partnership between the FEC and Quad County Urban League (the “QCUL”), a workforce development program serving customers in job readiness, training and placement services, to participate in the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund workforce research study. The Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund contracted with the FEC and QCUL to participate in the workforce research study by providing financial counseling following the FEC model to current and recent clients in existing job readiness, training and placement services and a grant of $10,000 for increased operational costs. In addition to their regular services, the FEC and QCUL will recruit clients to join the study. This grant extension provides additional funding to continue this research study.
  The success and sustainability of the FEC led to a new project with the Cities for Financial Empowerment described as the “Supervitamin Effect”. With support from Bloomberg Philanthropies, the CFE Fund contracted MDRC, a nonprofit, nonpartisan education and social policy research organization, to research workforce development programs that integrate financial counseling into service offerings to improve a client’s financial goals. As the FEC workforce development research partner, QCUL will make a referral of financial counseling services to approximately 300 clients through June 2025.
  The CFE grant funds will be applied to FEC operational costs and costs associated with anticipated increased contractual services.
  The proposed grant funds present an opportunity to continue funding the successful operation of the Financial Empowerment Center. The operational costs will offset anticipated increased direct costs to the City of Aurora due to an increase in clients.
• Approved was a Resolution authorizing execution of a first amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) between the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, Inc. (“the CFE Fund”) and the City of Aurora for the Aurora Financial Empowerment Center (“Aurora FEC”) to continue an FEC Expert Partner (“FEC Expert Partner”) until October 31, 2025.
  The Aurora FEC became an FEC Expert Partner in 2022 and will continue to operate an FEC as a high-quality public service, actively contribute to the national FEC learning community (“FEC Public Learning Community”), receive technical assistance resources, and continue to use the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (“the CFE Fund”) central FEC database at no-cost. The First Amendment allows the Aurora Financial Empowerment Center (“Aurora FEC”) to remain an FEC Expert Partner (“FEC Expert Partner”) until October 31, 2025.
  City government of Aurora documents show in 2019, the City of Aurora applied for and received the Financial Empowerment Center Implementation Grant funds from the CFE Fund as a match grant to support municipal engagement to improve the financial stability of low- and moderate-income households by embedding financial empowerment strategies into local government infrastructure. The Neighbor Project (TNP) was hired as the servicing contractors for the grant agreement with CFE. The Aurora FEC became a part of a growing network of FECs embedded in local governments across the country, committed to providing free, one-to-one financial counseling, delivered by professionally trained counselors, to low- and moderate-income residents.
  The Aurora FEC was successful in its two-year pilot phase. Thereafter, the City of Aurora extended the contract with The Neighbor Project for up to two annual extensions from 2022-2024 to continue to provide financial counseling and financial literacy to the community.
  The CFE Fund has supported and continues to support the Aurora FEC through technical assistance resources, access to the National FEC learning community, and licenses to use the CFE Fund’s central FEC database. Important data from this database is regularly used to update the City of Aurora leadership team, as well as community and fiscal partners, of the progress the Aurora FEC is making in delivering its services to the community.
  The success and sustainability of the FEC has led to the City of Aurora authorizing a new contract with The Neighbor Project to continue providing financial counseling and literacy services. The Aurora FEC counselors have steadily increased their caseloads, providing counseling services to low- and moderate-income residents, and referring clients to partner agency services. Since implementation, the Aurora FEC served 2,576 clients, had 2,074 outcomes, helped clients increase savings by more than $968,935 and reduce debt by over $2,803,782.
  In response to a growing need of counseling services, especially for residents looking to secure housing or afford growing rental costs, the Aurora FEC expanded its services to include an additional counselor and a part-time administrative assistant through The Neighbor Project, while also providing additional financial literacy programming. Direct costs for The Financial Empowerment Center are mainly paid by grants, in-kind donations, and donors, making it increasingly financially sustainable.
  As the Aurora FEC expands, it is important to continue to receive support from the national organization and to remain involved in a national learning community. The Aurora FEC continues to receive recommendations for continued success from partnering cities and contributes to the success of other pilot FECs nationwide.
  The proposed resolution presents an opportunity to continue receiving no-cost support from the CFE Fund through technical assistance resources, access to the FEC Public Learning Community, licenses to use the CFE Fund’s central FEC database, and designates the Aurora FEC as an FEC Expert Partner to continue to provide FEC services as part of the CFE Fund’s national FEC Public platform. Data generated from the database will enable City of Aurora staff members to develop localized reports detailing the impact that financial counseling is having on improving local household financial stability.
• Approved was a Resolution maintaining the maximum number of Class B City of Aurora liquor licenses (unofficially related to application from: JAS Bar & Grille Inc. d/b/a AC’s Pub, 2124 W. Galena Blvd.) [Ward 5].
  The purpose is to review and approve a 100% change of corporate ownership and maintain the number of Class B – On-Site Consumption Liquor licenses to accommodate the change in ownership.
  City government of Aurora documents show this request is presented in accordance with the 2011 amendment to the City’s Liquor Ordinance, specifically Section 6-9(a), which charges the City Council with the authority to determine the number of licenses available in each classification.
  JAS Bar & Grille Inc. dba: AC’s Pub, is at 2124 W. Galena Blvd., and new owners have submitted a liquor license application for a Class B license for the purpose of selling to the general public alcoholic liquor by the drink for consumption on the premises where sold due to a 100% change in corporate ownership. AC’s Pub has had a liquor license at that location since 2018.
  This resolution would maintain the number of allowable liquor licenses to allow for the issuance of the licenses by the Commissioner. City staff members have been working with the business representatives to ensure that all requirements for a liquor license, as set forth in Chapter 6 of the City’s Code of Ordinances, are met.
• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the director of the City’s Purchasing Department to enter into a managed services agreement for a Public Safety and Municipal Radio System from L3Harris Corporation, Lynchburg, VA for an agreement amount of $15,900,000 for 10 years.
  City government of Aurora documents show the L3Harris Radio System is designed to support and provides 24/7 city wide communications for both Public Safety and city municipal employees. At this time, this critical system operates L3Harris’ 15-year-old, sun-setted OpenSky Platform. IT staff members have worked diligently with L3Harris for nearly four years on an upgrade path to the Project 25 (P25) radio standard.
  In 2019, Council Resolution R19-209 authorized the upgrade of radio consoles and servers in the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), Backup Communications Center (BCC) and Emergency Management Agency (EMA) from the existing Windows Vista platforms to new, more flexible platform that supported not only the OpenSky standard, but also the industry standard P25 standard.
  As this upgrade was successful and has performed well, City staff members desired to continue the long-standing relationship with L3Harris. With the investment the City made upgrading the radio consoles and servers as well as the investment in radio tower equipment and radios themselves, it was clear that the most cost-effective method to upgrade to the P25 standard was to continue to work with L3Harris.
  Since this upgrade, City staff members have continued to work with L3Harris to find a way to more to a managed service that shifts from significant capital expenses (CapEx) to more predictable operational expenses (OpEx). City staff members believe this agreement provides that and L3Harris has taken this model to other clients since this model has been developed jointly.
  By moving to the P25 standard, the City will upgrade to a radio system that provides proven interoperability with radios of other Public Safety partners including all state and federal agencies, improved scalability and significantly better coverage.
  At this time, the City purchases all radios directly from L3Harris and is then responsible for repairs, battery replacement and general maintenance. Under the managed service model, radios will be leased as part of the contract – making repairs, battery replacement maintenance and software upgrades the responsibility of L3Harris. This will free up City staff members’ time to work on more pressing radio concerns such as interoperability with other agencies.
  By moving to a long-term managed service model, all break-fix items are included in the model as are multiple hardware and software upgrades that will significantly reduce capital expenses. Throughout the length of the agreement, the City can expect several hardware refreshes that will likely cost the City hundreds of thousands of dollars. By agreeing to a longer-term agreement, the City will no longer incur these large capital outlays.
  The P25 standard transmits on a lower frequency which broadcasts radio signals over a longer distance. This increased distance means that the City will maintain fewer radio towers within the City limits – current estimates show the number of towers dropping from eight to six. This will reduce tower maintenance costs and potentially free up existing properties for other uses.
  Although the initial 2 years of an agreement will be higher than experienced at this time, costs for future years will be significantly reduced. The first 2 years will include significant upgrades to radio tower equipment throughout the City to upgrade the existing radio antennas to the P25 standard.
  In the last ten years under the current CapEx model, the City has spent over $18,000,000 in equipment and licensing with L3Harris. Continuing this CapEx model for the next ten years will cost the City $21,674,896.
  If the City adopts the proposed OpEx-focused managed service model, the ten-year cost will be $15,900,000.60.
  Year 1 Infrastructure equipment and installation services $3,500,000.00
  Year 2 Managed Services and New Radios $6,045,460.88
  Year 3 Managed Services $794,317.99
  Year 4 Managed Services $794,317.39
  Year 5 Managed Services $794,317.39
  Year 6 Managed Services and Refresh of Equipment $794,317.39
  Year 7 Managed Services $794,317.39
  Year 8 Managed Services $794,317.39
  Year 9 Managed Services $794,317.39
  Year 10 Managed Services $794,317.39
  The City of Naperville has been a strong public safety partner and the City of Aurora desires to keep this partnership strong.
  The ability for both Aurora and Naperville public safety agencies to communicate daily is a critical public safety necessity for citizens and business community. Both Aurora and Naperville have benefited from the long-standing integrity of the current Radio System. If the City of Aurora moves to the P25 standard, the City will ensure that this communications system remains completely interoperable. The City of Naperville receives their own invoicing from L3Harris for the costs of services and maintenance and can choose to upgrade to P25 on their own schedule without loss of the ability to communicate with the City of Aurora.
  The L3Harris Radio System upgrades have been budgeted via Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) C147 Account 340-1280-419.38-03 2024 budget amount of $3,500,000.00..
  Not performing this upgrade poses a security risk, as well as failures and downtime, for the City of Aurora’s public safety and municipal radio systems.
• Approved was a Resolution Authorizing Purchase of Property/Boiler Machinery, Fine Arts, Cyber and Excess Cyber Liability, Crime, Special Events Liability, Drone Liability, General Liability/Law Enforcement/Auto Liability, Excess Liability, Excess Workers Compensation, and Liquor Liability insurance policies for the period of December 31, 2023, through December 31, 2024.
  City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain approval of the proposal from broker HUB International Midwest Limited for Property/Boiler Machinery insurance from Chubb Insurance Company, Fine Arts Insurance from Hanover Insurance Company, Cyber Liability Insurance from AIG, Excess Cyber from Coalition, Crime Insurance from Travelers, Special Events Liability from Cincinnati Specialty, Drone Liability from (AAIC) American Alternative Insurance Company, Excess General Liability/Law Enforcement/Auto Liability Insurance from Safety National, Homesite, Kinsale, HDI Global, Allied World, Starstone, and Great American Insurance Company, Excess Workers Compensation insurance from Safety National Casualty Insurance, and Liquor Liability insurance from Lloyds of London for the period of December 31, 2023 through December 31, 2024.
  The City has historically maintained these types of insurance coverages as part of its overall insurance and risk management program totaling $35M in overall excess liability coverage including self-insured retention level of $2M. 2022-2023 total program cost, including broker service fee, was $2,183,869.00.
  The City’s authorized broker HUB International reviewed the existing program and solicited additional market bids beyond renewal of the existing program. Despite extensive efforts by HUB, certain market conditions in the Property, General and Excess General Liability insurance markets have yielded significantly higher premium cost renewals. It is imperative the City of Aurora maintain all its present coverages despite these results.
  HUB is recommending a renewal of the casualty lines for the City’s Excess General Liability coverages which would maintain the self-insured retention by the City of Aurora at $2M and have Safety National for the first $5M layer beyond the SIR and then Homesite Insurance Company (HIC), Kinsale, and HDI Global participating in the next $10M. HUB recommends replacing Berkley/Gemini with Allied World for the next $5M to $15M. Starstone would have the next $5M layer and Great American would have the next $10M to complete the final layer to $35M total coverage. Approval of the six-layer coverage structure will maintain the desired excess liability coverage of $35M above the City of Aurora’s $2M self-insured retention. The public entity/municipality sector continues to experience severe capacity issues with a shrinking pool of what was already a very short list of variable markets. The increase in premiums reflect the market driven lack of capacity.
  Property – HUB is recommending a renewal with Chubb as they continue to offer a very comprehensive coverage platform with certain coverage items that are not available with competing markets. Chubb will require a 23% rate hike due to ongoing market conditions as well as adverse and ongoing city claim losses over the past few years.
  The bottom-line overall premium for all lines of coverage the renewal represents a bottom-line rate increase of 15% over the current expiring program. This increase is indicative of current adverse insurance market conditions in the public entity space where lack of capacity and the lack of viable market alternatives are driving exponential price increases in the excess casualty and property lines.
  Overall, the total cost including broker service fee for 2023-2024 is $2,519.775.00 as compared to $2,183.869.00 for 2022-2023. Funds for these insurance policies are budgeted for in the Property and Casualty Fund budget.
• Approved was a Resolution authorizing payment to Testing for Public Safety, LLC (dba IPSP) as the Provider of Services for 2023 Fire Department Promotional Testing Process.
  The purpose is to obtain authorization for payment to IPSP for services rendered for the 2023 Police Department’s promotional testing process.
  City government of Aurora documents show the City of Aurora has utilized Testing for Public Safety, LLC (dba IPSP) for over twenty years. IPSP administers the promotional testing process for the City’s public safety departments in order to establish promotional hiring lists.
  IPSP administered the 2023 promotional testing process to establish a promotional hiring list for Police Department Sergeant and Lieutenant candidates. Sixty-two (62) candidates went through the testing process amounting to $63,350. IPSP provides exceptional services and continues to be a dependable partner with the City.
• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the director of the City’s Purchasing Department to enter into an enterprise service agreement with Selectron Technologies for multiple Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems.
  City government of Aurora documents show Resolution R23-240 approved the purchase of Selectron’s SelecTXT product that provides connectivity directly with Central Square’s TRAKiT solution to allows constituents and contractors increased flexibility in scheduling inspections, reviewing results, and following permit progress throughout the course of their project.
  After this purchase and continued discussions with Selectron, City staff members determine that to reduce risk, increase payment card industry (PCI) compliance and achieve economies of scale, it was in the City’s best interest to combine all Selectron products into one coterminous contract.
  This original requests for the use of Selectron products over the years stem from the desire to allow fees to be paid over the phone and most recently from contractor complaints needing to more quickly and easily setup inspections.
  The City has had good success with the Selectron products and now wishes to consolidate the contracts and move the services to the Selectron private Internet cloud.
  By moving these services to the cloud, Selectron will be responsible for the performance of the service as well as any hardware, operating system or software upgrades required. This reduces risk to the City and inline with the IT Strategic Plan that desires to move customer facing services to more secure cloud-based platforms.
  The total five-year cost of the consolidated Selectron products is $603,690.00.
  Funding for these services will be made available from account #101-1280-419.38-11.
  Selectron is a Strategic Alliance Vendor with CST due to product type and interface with TRAKiT. They are the only company with an established IVR interface with CST
  By combining these contracts and moving the services to the Selectron private cloud, risk to the City is greatly reduced and PCI compliance is increased.
• Approved was a Resolution superseding all previous resolutions pertaining to and amending salary and benefit plans for employees in the non-exempt pay plan.
  The purpose is to obtain City Council approval to amend the salary and benefit plan for employees in the Non-Exempt Pay Plan for 2024.
  City government of Aurora documents show the salary and benefit plan for employees in the City’s Non-Exempt Service is submitted for approval annually after passage of the City budget.
  Changes are reflected in the summary as well as in the proposed budget.
  The pay plan also reflects a 3.5% cost of living adjustment to all pay grades.
• Approved was a Resolution superseding all previous resolutions pertaining to and amending salary and benefit plans for employees in the executive pay plan.
  The purpose is to obtain City Council approval to amend the salary and benefit plan for employees in the Executive Pay Plan for 2024.
  City government of Aurora documents show the salary and benefit plan for employees in the City’s Executive Service is submitted for approval annually after passage of the City budget.
  The changes are reflected in the summary as well as in the approved budget.
  The pay plan reflects a 3.5% cost of living adjustment to all pay grades.
• Approved was a Resolution concerning the review of “closed” executive session meeting minutes.
  The purpose is to obtain City Council approval to open certain “Closed” Executive Session Minutes.
  City government of Aurora documents show pursuant to statutory requirements, review is required of “closed” minutes to determine whether confidentiality is still required, or if minutes can be opened to the public.
  Having reviewed the “closed” minutes through November 30, 2023, one attachment identifies those minutes that are recommended to remain closed and another attachment identifies those minutes that are recommended to be opened. The minutes to proposed to be open include 03-07-17 Land Acquisition, 08-14-18 Pending Litigation, and 04-11-23 Personnel.
  The impact of review is to ensure transparency of public records and make appropriate records available for review by the public.
• Approved was an Ordinance annexing vacant land at the southwest corner of Liberty Street and N. Eola Road to the city government of Aurora, pursuant to an approved annexation agreement.
  The Petitioner Car Wash Pro Designers is requesting the annexation of 7.303 acres at the southwest corner of Liberty Street and N. Eola Road which includes annexation of two current parcels for future development and adjacent right-of-way. A Plan Description allows for the property to be rezoned to permit the development of a single-bay car wash, future commercial development, and stormwater management.
  City government of Aurora documents show the Property is vacant land with unincorporated DuPage County zoning.
  The Annexation Agreement, Annexation, Conditional Use Planned Development, and Preliminary Plat and Plan are being review and approved concurrently under separate actions.
  The Petitioner is requesting approval of a Preliminary Plan and Plat for a Car Wash, Single Bay (2832) use and for two future mix use buildings. The details of the request include approval of a Preliminary Plan and Plat. The Plat includes the creation of four lots with three lots being developable and one being a stormwater control easement.
  The Preliminary Plan proposes an approximate 5,000 square foot car wash on a 69,518 square foot lot at the corner of Liberty Street and Eola Road. A second 72,565 square foot lot is being planned for a future commercial development. The preliminary plan outlines an approximate 6,400 square foot commercial building with a potential drive through and associated parking. The third proposed lot, being 38,472 square feet in size, is proposed to have a future 4,000 square foot building and associated parking. The car wash is in the process of being developed and will subsequently come through with a Final Plan and Plat following entitlements. The two lots noted as future only show a preliminary hypothetical layout that maximizes potential development opportunities. Final Plans for the future lots will be required once specific projects are proposed. The fourth lot consisting of 56,497 square feet is for stormwater management for all four lots.
  The access to the site includes a full access off Liberty Street that is setback as far from Eola Road as possible being around 350 feet from the intersection; however, as noted above the City reserves the right to limit this full access if traffic becomes an issue. The second access to the site is a proposed full access on Eola Road near the southern end of the site. This access and any improvements on Eola Road will be determined by the DuPage County Department of Transportation. An internal drive aisle with cross access easements connects all three lots to the two access points and to each other. A 5’ sidewalk will be installed along Liberty Street and an 8’ foot path will be installed along Eola Road.
  The car wash will include three queue lanes with two additional preparation lanes on either side. These lanes will merge into a single lane to enter the singe-bay car wash. Cars will exit out of the car wash onto the internal drive aisle and can either go east to the vacuum spots and to the entrance on Eola Road or west towards the entrance on Liberty Street. Twenty-four vacuum stalls are provided with six employee parking spaces.
  Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting an Annexation Agreement for 5.4 acres for Car Wash Pro Designers Development and Annexation of 7.303 acres including right-of-way. The details of the request include an Annexation Agreement outlining responsibilities of the developer, responsibilities of the City, and Public Roads and Utilities.
  The Petitioner is also requesting the Establishment of a Conditional Use Planned Development with an underlying B-2 General Retail District and OS-1 Conservation, Open Space, and Drainage District zoning. The details of the request include a Plan Description that allows for modifications to the uses and bulk restrictions. This includes allowing one Car Wash, Single-Bay (2832) use on Lot 2 while prohibiting additional uses, including laundromat, alternative financial institutions, used clothing store, pawnshop and tattoo parlor. The minimum interior side yard setback on the western property line of Lot 1 abutting residential, was increased from 20 feet to 50 feet. The Landscaping and Screening requirements were amended to require the installation of a three-to-five-foot berm and an 8’ privacy fence along the western property line of Lot 1 at the time of development of Lot 2, being the car wash, along with the installation of the required perimeter yard and buffer yard landscaping at the time of development of Lot 2, or Lot 1 being whichever occurs first. The City also reserves the right to limit the access off Liberty Street to a Right In/Right Out Only should traffic problems arise as determined by the City Engineer in consultation with other departments.
  Staff members have reviewed the Preliminary Plan and 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 member recommendation below.
  The Aurora Comprehensive Plan identifies this property along with the adjacent properties to the south and east abutting Eola Road as Commercial. Access points are far from the intersection to ensure proper traffic circulation. A left turn lane into the development was included to prevent traffic from backing up on Liberty Street.
  While not required until Final Plan, the Petitioner has submitted Preliminary Landscape and Elevations to show the quality of the development and to show the screening being proposed to the adjacent residential. A three-foot landscape berm is identified on the Preliminary Plan within in the 50-foot setback along the western property line of Lot 1 along with an 8’ solid fence. The Preliminary Landscape Plan shows preliminary landscaping on the car wash lot as well as landscaping along Lot 1 to provide buffering. Preliminary Renderings are also included and depicts a masonry building with large windows and end towers featuring pyramidal roofs. The canopy and vacuum spaces will have metal canopies.
  Policies and guidelines:
  The 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.
  14.1(5) To provide for the visual enhancement of the City through attractive landscaping, quality signage and diverse building design and arrangement.
  31.1(3) To promote the development of commercial facilities in existing or planned commercial areas.
  32.1(3) To minimize the adverse effects of commercial activity on neighboring development, particularly residential and open space areas through the provision of buffering land uses and/or screening.
  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended conditional approval of the A Resolution approving a Preliminary Plan and Plat for Liberty and Eola subdivision, on vacant land at the southwest corner of Liberty Street and N. Eola Road, with the following conditions:
  1.) That per the Plan Description, 15 CTEs accounting for perimeter landscaping and buffer landscaping requirements be shown on the Landscape Plan on the western property line of Lot 1 in a mixture of canopy trees, evergreen trees, and shrubs and must be shown as being installed with the development of Lot 2.
  2.) That per the Plan Description, an 8’ fence be shown on the Final Plan and Landscape Plan along the western property line of Lot 1 and must be shown as being installed with the development of Lot 2.
  3.) That the CTE requirement beyond native planting for the detention be shown on the Landscape Plan when submitted for Final Plan review.
  4.) That all required approvals/permits be obtained from the DuPage Department of Transportation prior to approval of final engineering plans for all proposed work within the Eola Road Right of Way including but not limited to access points, sidewalks/paths, utility work, landscaping, etc.
  5.) That all required approvals/permits/mitigations be completed with the jurisdictions overseeing wetland issues prior to approval of final engineering plans.
  6.) That utilities, grading and other items be reviewed in more detail at final engineering plan review, which may result in additional revisions.
  7.) That Annexation to Fox Metro Water Reclamation District and approval of the proposed sanitary sewer be completed prior to approval of final engineering plans.
  8.) Adjustments to the access configuration off Liberty Street may be needed at final engineering.
  9.) That the language for the Private Sanitary Service Easement, the Private Stormwater Easement, and the Private Water Service Easement be shown on the Final Plat of Subdivision.
  10.) That the City, at its expense, reserves the right to limit the access off Liberty Street to Right In/Right Out Only should traffic problems arise as determined by the City Engineer in consultation with the traffic engineer and the Aurora Police Department such as left turn stacking problems and safety issues. The City shall provide 90-day written notification to the owner of the City’s decision to restrict access.