Aurora City Council: Mayor’s Award of Valor presented

By Jason Crane

Mayor of Aurora, Richard Irvin and members of the Aurora City Council, honored first responders and Aurora residents at the Aurora City Council COW meeting, Tuesday, Dec. 20.

The Mayor’s Award of Valor was presented to six Aurora police officers responsible for rescuing nine-year-old Tyshaun LaFlore in a neighborhood pond the day before Thanksgiving.

In addition, The Mayor’s Award of Valor was presented to Shannon O’Neal, a neighbor who selflessly jumped into the pond to save Tyshaun, before first responders arrived.

Tyshaun, his two siblings, and their single mother watched with emotion as the heroes were honored at the last City Council meeting of the year.

The honorees are:

• Shannon O’Neal, the neighbor who jumped into the water to keep Tyshaun afloat;

• Officers Alexander Lopez and Andrew Soderlund, for going into the water;

• Officers Darren Pedota, Victor Garcia, Vincent Nardone, and Adan Barraza, who pulled officers Lopez and Soderlund, O’Neal, and Tyshaun out of the water.

Here are details of the incident: Just before 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, Aurora’s 911 Telecommunications Center received reports of a nine-year-old drowning near Montgomery Road. Aurora Police officers and Aurora Firefighters were dispatched to the scene.

Around the same time, neighbor Shannon O’Neal’s son ran to their second-floor apartment unit, screaming that the kid he was playing football with outside had fallen through the ice trying to retrieve the football.

Without hesitation, Shannon, a former lifeguard, sprinted down the stairs, across the complex, and entered the icy, 15’ deep, black water where nine-year-old Tyshaun was struggling to stay afloat as the ice he tried to grab kept breaking.

Shannon reached Tyshaun and tried to calm him while she held his head above the water until help arrived.

When officers arrived, they found the nine-year-old boy who had fallen through the ice and an adult woman who had gone in to save the child.

Multiple officers deployed water rescue kits while two officers swam to save the drowning child and the adult female in the water. In a combined effort, officers safely returned to land with the child and the woman.

Tyshaun, and two Aurora officers sustained minor injuries and were transported to an area hospital by the Aurora Fire Department.

Shannon, was treated on scene and was not transported. She returned to her apartment, where she dried off, changed into dry clothes, and was assessed for hyperthermia. She signed a release and returned to prepping food for Thanksgiving dinner.

The City Council approved the following agenda items:

• Approved was the Mayor’s appointment of Nydia Molina as assistant Corporation Counsel.

• Approved was the Mayor’s appointment of Joseph Munder as assistant superintendent of the Water Production Department.

• Approved was the Mayor’s appointment of William Kirwan, a resident of Aurora’s Ward 8 to the Aurora Airport Advisory Board.

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. The nomination brought forth represents Ward 8 resident, William Kiwan.

• Approved was a Resolution in support of House Bill 5452, the “Drones as First Responders Act”.

City government of Aurora documents show this resolution will allow Aurora to publicly support legislation seeking to amend Public Act 98-569.

The Illinois General Assembly approved the Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act in 2013 and it has not undergone substantial change since the inception. Currently, Illinois has some of the most restrictive laws in the Nation. Law enforcement is seeking reasonable updates to the current language that will allow use in a limited capacity as a preventative public-safety tool.

In the Fall 2021, law enforcement personnel created a coalition of departments, large and small, from throughout the State with the goal of amending the current language. The group met with several State Legislators as well as several proponents and opponents to collect meaningful feedback in the drafting of the bill. HB 5452, the “Drones as First Responders Act” is the first step in recognizing the value of an unmanned aerial system (UAS) as a proactive public safety tool.

This Resolution will allow the City of Aurora to publicly show support of HB 5452 and allowing law enforcement to utilize this tool.

• Approved was a Resolution for the purchase of a community survey system from Axon Enterprises Inc. to be used by the Aurora Police Department.

City government of Aurora documents show the Aurora Police Department has been looking for ways to engage with the community and obtain anonymous feedback regarding officer and staff member performance.

This innovation exists in the form of post-contact anonymous surveys, which allow police administration to receive crucial and meaningful feedback from those whose quality of life is impacted most directly. This innovation includes multi-language, responsive communication, which allows the Aurora Police Department to both receive feedback and educate and inform citizens on matters relating to the reduction of crime and an increase in the quality of life in Aurora.

This proprietary system is only made available to law enforcement agencies and is not sold through any third-party vendor. The cost for this system, which includes all software updates and ancillary additions, has been quoted not to exceed $30,000.00 per year, and a contract has been offered for the next 5 years.

This vendor has no outstanding debt with the City of Aurora.

A purchase quote was presented by Axon Enterprises Inc. in the amount of $144,000.00.

Because this is a sole source provider, this purchase was not bid and therefore, local preference does not apply. A decision package for $35,000.00 was approved for the purchase of this survey system for 2023-2027.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the City treasurer to accept on behalf of the City a donation in the amount of $150,000.00 from Curative Health Cultivation, LLC, through their parent company Columbia Care, for the forthcoming City of Aurora Child Savings Account program.

City government of Aurora documents show Curative Health Cultivation, LLC, and its parent companies, Columbia Care Illinois LLC, Columbia Care LLC, and Columbia Care, Inc. (collectively “Columbia Care”) have operated a facility at 2229 Diehl Road in Aurora since 2014. At this facility, Columbia Care cultivates and processes cannabis for medical and adult-use. Columbia Care is one of the largest and most experienced cultivators, manufacturers, and providers of cannabis products across the United States, with licenses in 18 different jurisdictions.

In honor of the relationship that Columbia Care has had with the city of Aurora, they sought to donate $150,000.00 to the city of Aurora as seed money for the new city of Aurora Child Savings Account program that will be offered through the City’s Financial Empowerment Center. As such, staff is coming to City Council to request acceptance of the donation through a check to the City treasurer to deposit as seed money for the new program.

Columbia Care received a license to cultivate medical cannabis from the Illinois Department of Agriculture in 2014. This was one of the first cultivation licenses that Columbia Care was awarded. In 2020, Columbia Care received its license to cultivate and process cannabis for adult-use and the facility began full-scale operations that year.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the execution of a property purchase and sales contract for eight parcels of property (302-316 N. River Street and 109-155 Cedar Street).
City government of Aurora documents show in order to continue the successful redevelopment of Aurora’s downtown, the City government purchases properties when they become available on the market. The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development (MOED) team has met with the property owner of the above parcel and has negotiated a purchase contract.
Properties that have turned from productive use to disuse are found in cities, more often due to the economy downturns and change in the business environment. These properties vary widely in size, shape, former use, and are a symptom of larger economic forces.
The City government, however, has increasingly viewed vacant and underutilized properties as opportunities for productive reuse, reimagining blight and dilapidation as new flywheel opportunities for a brighter future that holds residential and economic development opportunities.
The City, in its best interest to preserve and maintain the wellbeing of its community and economic environment, has proactively anticipated the possible negative spillover effects of properties not used to their best capacities or left vacant.
The acquisition of land exercised by local governments is not something new, and it is geared to avoid vacancies, disruption and quality of life in the the public’s interest. City staff members will proactively work on moving properties into responsible ownership and productive uses as envisioned by long range plans and corridor studies soon to come to fruition.
Under three separate agenda items, MOED is recommending the purchase of three separate properties as noted below:
1) 101 N River Street, Tax Pin 15-22-326-001 (BeeBee Property)
2) 16 S. LaSalle Street (JoCo Parking Lot) Tax Pin 15-22-377-021
3) 8 parcels at the northerly quadrant of River Street and Cedar Street (Das’s/Fox Valley Hotel). 302-316 N River Street, 109-155 Cedar Street
Tax Pins: 15-22-177-012; 15-22-177-013; 15-22-177-014; 15-22-177-015; 15-22-177-016; 15-22-177-017; 15-22-177-007; 15-22-177-008.
Each of the above referenced parcels is in a different section of the City downtown. The Fox Valley Hotel properties are adjacent to a strategic area of the northwest downtown, which has recently seen the development agreement with Windfall for a 160 unit residential development. With the relocation of the Hollywood Casino, the parking areas adjacent to River St will also be considered for future development. As such, controlling the Fox Valley Hotel properties will be beneficial for future downtown planning and development.
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) has been completed and has not identified recognized environmental conditions (RECs).
The City continues to make long-term decisions to improve the downtown as a center for entertainment, living and business activities. Most, if not all of the development agreements approved in the past several years have involved the purchase, donation or swap of land to support the given development activity. 
The total anticipated costs for the Fox River Hotel property is:
Property – $750,000.00
Reasonable Closing Costs – $30,000.00 (est.)
Funding for these purchases will involve the amendment of a previous agreement with DAC Development and will also require a budget amendment. Originally, the DAC development deal was to be funded from a variety of sources including $963,000.00 for soft costs to get the project started. These costs have been incurred and were funded from General Fund reserves per the Council approval in Resolution R 21-204. MOED staff members and the chief financial officer, Chris Minick, recommend that a large portion of these expenses be funded from Tax Increment Financing District #1, which closes at the end of 2022. Per this development agreement, one parcel of the DAC development was already in TIF #1, and the other two parcels are contiguous with TIF #1 and therefore funds can be spent from TIF #1 in the other TIF (East River Bend TIF). After this transfer/amendment is completed, funding for these land purchases will be as follows:
General Fund Reserves (from the exchange of funding for DAC redevelopment expenses now covered by TIF #1) – $780,000.00 for the Fox Valley Motel Purchase. City staff members are requesting, as noted above, the approval to transfer the DAC Development soft costs of $963,000 from the General Fund to the new TIF set up for DAC Development. This transfer will allow the General Fund to finance this purchase at $780,000 with only $130,000.00 being expended from the General Fund once the DAC expenses have been transferred to the East River Bend TIF.
TIF #1 – $750,000.00 for the JoCo Purchase/closing costs at $575,000.00 including estimated closing costs and $175,00000 for the BeeBee Purchase/closing costs. Land is an eligible expense for Tax Increment Financing. The BeeBee Property and the JoCo Parking Lot are both within TIF #1.
The total land not to exceed purchase price is $750,000.00 for the Fox River Hotel parcels, $150,000.00 for the BeeBee property, and $550,000.00 for the JoCo parking lot property for a total not to exceed purchase price of $1,450.000.00. Estimated closing costs for the Fox River Hotel is $30,000.00, the Bee Property is $25,000.00 and for the JoCo Parking lot property is $25,000, for a total Estimated closing costs of $80,000.00.
The purchase of the Fox River Hotel property will provide greater flexibility in future development opportunities in the downtown.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the execution of labor agreement between the city of Aurora government and Local 3298, Council 31, American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, AFL/CIO (AFSCME) from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2024.
City government of Aurora documents show the AFSCME Local 3298 contract expired on September 30, 2016. A rollover was set in place in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020. Negotiations began in August 2019 between the City of Aurora and AFSCME Local 3298.
The Union ratified the contract on November 4, 2022. Highlights of negotiated terms include an increase in the health insurance premium to 20% starting July 2024 and a 13% wage increase over 4 years. Language was negotiated that will enable the city’s ability to stay competitive and increase the staffing opportunity for the Telecom division. Initiatives include implementing a lateral hiring process as well as allowing staffing on a part-time basis.

• Approved was an Ordinance approving a revision to the DAC Developments Plan Description on 1.96 Acres for property at 100 N. Broadway.
City government of Aurora documents show the Petitioner, DAC Developments, is requesting a Plan Description Revision to the Conditional Use Planned Development on the property at 100 N. Broadway.  
The property consists of 1.96 acres and is a privately owned parking lot. This area has long been envisioned for new high-quality residential housing. The Seize the Future Master Plan branded this area the “Roundhouse Neighborhood” and identified this area along the Fox River as being a neighborhood that residents enjoy easy access to a first-class commuter facility and the exciting live performances at the new festival park (aka RiverEdge Park). In 2021, the City Council approved a Redevelopment Agreement with DAC Developments for the construction of a new market rate 246-unit multi-story residential building. In the same year, the City Council approved a Conditional Use Planned Development with DF Downtown Fringe as the underlying zoning along with a Preliminary Plat and Plan. A Final Plat and Plan was then approved by City Council in May of 2022. 
The Petitioner is requesting a Plan Description Revision to the Conditional Use Planned Development on the property at 100 N. Broadway. The requested revisions to the plan description include:
1) Increasing the density from 129 dwelling units per acre to 132 dwelling units per acre. This would increase the number of units by 12 for a total of 258 units;
2) Reducing the parking stall width size within the parking facility from 9 feet in width to 8 feet in width and to allow 3 spaces to be tandem;
3) Reducing the parking ratio from 1.26 spaces per dwelling unit to 1.21 spaces per dwelling unit which results in a reduction of 13 spaces, bringing the total of spaces to 312; and
4) Reducing the percentage of masonry on the exterior building facade from 43% to 17%. 
Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting approval of a Final Plan Revision on Lot 1 of DAC Development Subdivision. The details of the request include modifying the multi-story residential building elevation. The building will be in keeping with the overall design of the previously approved elevation but modifying the building materials. The proposed building elevation will maintain the brick along the bottom two stories of the building and replace of the brick proposed for the upper floors with a wood-look cement board panel. A still durable and low maintenance product that will be reviewed and approved by City staff members. In addition to replacing brick on the upper floors, the petitioner is proposing to replace metal accent frames with a shiny cement board panel. According to their architect this product will give it the same impression as the metal. The Petitioner is also requesting to add 5 additional units in the lower level of the northwest portion of the building and to eliminate the 7 two-story units along the southwest portion of the building and replace them with 14 single-story units creating an additional net of 7 units. This results in a net increase of 12 total units. 
Over the past year since City Council approved the RDA with DAC Developments, there are many stories of how higher mortgage interest rates are impacting the residential real estate markets across the country. The Federal Reserve has raised its benchmark rate rapidly this year from near zero to a range of 3.75%-4%. In their latest policy statement, the Federal Reserve said ongoing increases in interest rates will be appropriate “in order to attain a stance of monetary policy that is sufficiently restrictive to return inflation to 2% over time.” According to reports, the Federal Reserve’s benchmark interest rate may need to rise as high as 7% to put downward pressure on inflation. The result has been a significant slowing of residential real estate markets across the country.
City staff members and the Petitioner have a shared interest in seeing this highly visible project come to fruition. Over the last few months, both parties have been working collaboratively regarding the revision to the building design, elevation, number of units, and parking to create a quality development project that meets both the City’s and Petitioner’s vision while taking into account the current economic environment. These efforts include adding more value to the project (i.e. more rentable units) while value engineering elevation materials (i.e. newer building material products).
City staff members had 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 revision to the development will still bring much needed residents to the area, improving the overall economics, and strengthen the social fabric of the downtown. 
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 the multi-family residential building will still help promote the City’s position as a regional center and will have a positive impact on local businesses and service providers which will establish the desirable quality and general livability of the City.
3. The development will not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of surrounding properties for uses permitted in the district as the revision still fulfills the vision by enhancing the image and physical appearance of the City’s downtown.
4. There is adequate water and sewer capacity to serve the project.
5. This revision does not change the overall site plan. Therefore, the project does provide adequate ingress/egress. The development will be utilizing an existing signalized access point at Spring Street which is shared with the property to the south. The proposed curb cut on the north portion of the property will better align with the entrance into the Roundhouse restaurant and hotel across the street. While not providing the typical two spaces per unit, City staff members believe that this is a prime example of a transit-oriented development site and many of the residents will utilize the train as alternative transportation.
6. The revision to the Conditional Use in all other respects conforms to the applicable regulations of the DF zoning district.
   Policies and guidelines:
   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.

• Approved was a Resolution approving a Final Plan Revision to modify the building elevation on Lot 1 of DAC Development subdivision at 100 N. Broadway.
City government of Aurora documents show the Petitioner, DAC Developments, is requesting approval of a Final Plan Revision on Lot 1 of DAC Development Subdivision 100 N. Broadway which includes modifications to the building elevation.  
The property consists of 1.96 acres and is a privately owned parking lot. This area has long been envisioned for new high-quality residential housing. The Seize the Future Master Plan branded this area the “Roundhouse Neighborhood” and identified this area along the Fox River as being a neighborhood that residents enjoy easy access to a first-class commuter facility and the exciting live performances at the new festival park (aka RiverEdge Park). In 2021, the City Council approved a redevelopment agreement with DAC Developments for the construction of a new market rate 246-unit multi-story residential building. In the same year, the City Council approved a Conditional Use Planned Development with DF Downtown Fringe as the underlying zoning along with a Preliminary Plat and Plan. A Final Plat and Plan was then approved by City Council in May of 2022. 
The Petitioner is requesting approval of a Final Plan Revision on Lot 1 of DAC Development Subdivision. The details of the request include modifying the multi-story residential building elevation. The building will be in keeping with the overall design of the previously approved elevation but modifying the building materials. The proposed building elevation will maintain the brick along the bottom two stories of the building and replace of the brick proposed for the upper floors with a wood-look cement board panel. A still durable and low maintenance product that will be reviewed and approved by City staff members. In addition to replacing brick on the upper floors, the petitioner is proposing to replace metal accent frames with a shiny cement board panel. According to their architect this product will give it the same impression as the metal. The Petitioner is also requesting to add 5 additional units in the lower level of the northwest portion of the building and to eliminate the 7 two-story units along the southwest portion of the building and replace them with 14 single-story units creating an additional net of 7 units. This results in a net increase of 12 total units.
Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting a Plan Description Revision to the Conditional Use Planned Development on the property at 100 N. Broadway. The requested revisions to the plan description include:
1) Increasing the density from 129 dwelling units per acre to 132 dwelling units per acre. This would increase the number of units by 12 for a total of 258 units;
2) Reducing the parking stall width size within the parking facility from 9 feet in width to 8 feet in width and to allow up to 3 spaces be to tandem;
3) Reducing the parking ratio from 1.26 spaces per dwelling unit to 1.21 spaces per dwelling unit which results in a reduction of 13 spaces, bringing the total of spaces to 312; and
4) Reducing the percentage of masonry on the exterior building facade from 43% to 17%.  
Over the past year since City Council approved the RDA with DAC Developments, there are many stories of how higher mortgage interest rates are impacting the residential real estate markets across the country. The Federal Reserve has raised its benchmark rate rapidly this year from near zero to a range of 3.75%-4%. In their latest policy statement, the Federal Reserve said ongoing increases in interest rates will be appropriate “in order to attain a stance of monetary policy that is sufficiently restrictive to return inflation to 2% over time.” According to reports, the Federal Reserve’s benchmark interest rate may need to rise as high as 7% to put downward pressure on inflation. The result has been a significant slowing of residential real estate markets across the country.
City staff members and the Petitioner have a shared interest in seeing this highly visible project come to fruition. Over the last few months, both parties have been working collaboratively regarding the revision to the building design, elevation, number of units, and parking to create a quality development project that meets both the City’s and Petitioner’s vision while taking into account the current economic environment. These efforts include adding more value to the project (i.e. more rentable units) while value engineering elevation materials (i.e. newer building material products). 
Policies and guidelines:
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 a final plan revision to modify the building elevation on Lot 1 of DAC Development Subdivision at 100 N. Broadway with the following conditions:
1) That the cement board system complies with the intent of the amended building code Section 1404.1.1 requirement.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing a second amendment to and restatement of the approved redevelopment agreement (R21-204) with DAC Developments LLC regarding the development of 100 North Broadway.
City government of Aurora documents show the DAC Development group is requesting to update the existing RDA (approved by City Council on September 29, 2021) in order to update certain milestones within agreement to maintain an up-to-date timeline in the RDA.  
In September 2021 City Council approved a Redevelopment Agreement with DAC Developments LLC. 
In July 2022 City Council approved a 1st Amendment to the RDA to update the schedule outlined in the original RDA.
As City officials continue to move through the development design and permitting process, there is now a request for a 2nd Amendment to the RDA to once again update the schedule and key milestones. 
DAC Development group is requesting to update the RDA in order to modify certain dates that reflect the project timeline that has developed.
• Preamble – Page 2 – Change to 258 units
• Preamble – Page 2 – total capital investment of approximately $84,000,000
• Section 2 (a) – update to 258 units, $84,000,000
• Section 2 (g) (i) – update construction loan closing date to April 15, 2023. Update project completion date to September 15, 2025.
• Section 2 (g) (ii) – update project completion date to September 15, 2025.
• Update Preliminary Project Plan 
• Exhibit G – update to $84,000,000
• Update Project Timeline – Closing on Construction Loan/Completion of Final Construction Plans/Commencement of Construction – April 15, 2023, Completion of Construction – September 15, 2025  
Impact statement:
This Resolution authorizing a second amendment to the RDA will allow for the continued redevelopment of 100 North Broadway to proceed.

• Approved was an Ordinance approving the porting of funds from Tax Increment Financing District (TIF) #1, aka the Downtown TIF, to the East River Bend TIF for the reimbursement of eligible development expenses for the DAC Redevelopment project.
City government of Aurora documents show originally, the DAC Redevelopment project costs were approved to be funded from General Fund Reserves for the Soft Costs of the project. These costs totaled $963,000. At the time of this approval, the City did not know whether TIF #1 would have any eligible or available funds to help fund the DAC redevelopment project. Based on current data, TIF #1 has sufficient funds to support this expense.
The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development (MOED) has been evaluating various properties in the City’s downtown for potential purchase. Under separate cover the City Council will be asked to approve the purchase of a total of three properties for a total purchase cost of $1,530,000.00 
To fund these purchases, MOED and the Chief Financial Officer recommend the use of TIF funds, as land is an eligible TIF expense. Unfortunately, one of the larger properties, the Fox Valley Motel, is outside any TIF district in the City. By funding the DAC Redevelopment soft costs via TIF funds (also an eligible TIF expense), the City will be able to reimburse the General Fund $963,000.00, which can then be used to purchase the Fox Valley Motel property.
Resolution 21-204 authorized the Redevelopment Agreement for the DAC development project, a 240 unit residential development on the east bank of the Fox River, south of River Edge Park. As a part of this authorization, the City funded $963,000.00 for up front design and other soft costs for the Development from the General Fund. 
With the imminent closing of TIF #1, MOED and the Chief Financial Officer have identified sufficient funds in TIF #1, to fund the above costs from TIF dollars rather than the General Fund. Originally, 1 parcel for this development was in TIF #1, and was disconnected from the TIF. As such, the entire development is contiguous with TIF #1 and funds can therefor4 be “ported” from TIF #1 to the new East River Bend TIF. 
The ordinance authorizes the porting of $650,000.00 from TIF #1 to the East River Bend TIF. It also authorizes the Chief Financial Officer to transfer the previously incurred expenses of $963,000.00 in the General Fund to the East River Bend TIF. The East River Bend TIF will reimburse the General Fund $313,000.00 once there is available tax increment from the new TIF.
Adoption of this ordinance is an allowable use of TIF funds under the TIF Act, and will allow for the strategic use of TIF and General Fund resources for the funding of development projects.

• Approved .was a Resolution authorizing the purchase of Cornerstone of Santa Monica, Calif. OnDemand Public Sector eLearning Subscription in the amount of $24,000 each year for the next 3 years.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to execute a contract that allows Cornerstone to provide an eLearning platform as well as a Learning Management System. The curated online library is designed for public sector organizations and offers training topics centered around cultural competencies, inclusion & bias training, communication skills, change management and more. .
The Equity Division was established in 2021. The mission of the division is to create an environment that values Aurora’s inherent and acquired diversity enabling employees to bring their authentic self to work and ensure fair treatment, access and opportunity. Short term goals include curating learning experiences that drive employee engagement and create a sense of belonging by focusing on content related to building cultural competencies, leading with empathy, Inclusive leadership and recognizing and overcoming bias in the workplace. 
 The Society of Human Resource Management’s (SHRM) Research Institute and Boston College released preliminary findings from the National Study of Workplace Equity report show that nearly two-thirds of organizations (65 percent) say diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) is important, yet 63 percent have allocated little to no resources to DE&I.
“In today’s evolving world of work, fair policies and practices together with strong and deliberate DE&I strategies are integral to breaking the barriers of bias and inequity that can be present in the workplace,” said SHRM chief knowledge officer Alex Alonso, SHRM-SCP. “We must continue to address the root causes of bias, whether it be gender, age, racial, sexual orientation or disability, while building greater equity to lead workplaces into a better tomorrow.”
The SHRM Research Institute and Boston College found between 25 percent and 28 percent of organizations say their employees have experienced certain types of bias within the past two years:
About 27 percent of organizations’ employees have experienced racial bias within the past two years.
A quarter of organizations (25 percent) say their employees have experienced bias against older workers within the past two years.
It was also found that over a quarter of U.S. organizations (28 percent) say their employees have experienced gender bias within the past two years.
Inclusive teams drive employee engagement and foster a sense of belonging
Employee engagement relates to the level of an employee’s commitment and connection to the work they do, their teams and the organization. Employees who feel connected to their organization work harder, stay longer, and motivate others to do the same. engagement affects just about every important aspect of work, things like profitability, revenue, customer experience, employee turnover, absenteeism and more.
Inclusive teams make better business decisions 87% of the time (Forbes)
Inclusive teams make decisions 2X faster with ½ the meetings
Decisions made and executed by diverse teams delivered 60% better results
gender diverse teams do so 73% of the time.
Companies with inclusive business cultures and policies see a 59% increase in innovation.
Cornerstone’s motto is Turning learners into leaders. They offer hand selected learning content to build the skills of the future. They have 100 million users, 7,000 customers, operate in 180 countries and deliver content in 50 languages. The public sector content is a curated library designed to address talent shortages and provide City staff members with critical skills necessary to successfully serve the community by building stronger communicators, strategic thinkers and higher functioning teams. targeted content is focused on key skills such as:
Professional skills
-Communication
-Teamwork
-Business acumen
Modern Compliance
-Diversity & Inclusion
-Harassment, Discrimination & Safety
-Business Ethics & Corruption
Leadership & Management
 -Setting Direction
-Team Management
-Team Dynamics & Growth
Content is refreshed regularly, mobile ready and easy to deliver. Cornerstone’s Learning Experience Platform (LXP) is scalable with virtual eLearning, personalized for learners, fosters self-driven growth and provides learning insights through the reporting feature.  
Cornerstone was identified through the Society of Human Resource Professionals. They were selected because they are an industry leader. They provide over 200 online courses curated specifically for public sector employees. In addition, they provide an integrated platform that includes solutions for LMS, performance management, engagement surveys, recruiting & onboarding, and workforce planning. No other service provider had the combination of public sector content and an integrated solution that would allow us to seamlessly add services over time.
Per Section 2-335 (c), City Council may award without following the competitive bidding process. 
Funding for this project is budgeted in 2023 split with Human Resources: 101-1404-419.42-01 and 101-1006-419.42-01.
 Post COVID organizations in every industry began to realize that an investment in people and culture was no longer a luxury but a necessity. The ability of the City government to compete with other employers for talent is impacted if they don’t have a comprehensive plan to create an affirming environment for all City staff members. Inclusion training helps staff members, workgroups, and/or the entire organization become more aware of the cultural dynamics that affect individuals and societies. It helps participants understand more about historical inequities, and how culture can affect the workplace environment and the Aurora community. Inclusion training improves morale, boosts productivity, increases retention, and promotes innovation.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the execution of labor agreement between the city of Aurora government and the Aurora Fire Officers Association (AFOA) from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2025.
City government of Aurora documents show the Aurora Fire Officers Association (AFOA) contract expired on December 31, 2020. A rollover was set in place in 2021. Negotiations began in November 2022 between the City of Aurora and the Aurora Fire Officers Association (AFOA).
The Union ratified the contract on November 22, 2022. Highlights of negotiated terms includes Emergency Action Pay and a 1% differential increase at the Fire Captain rank. The City was able to negotiate an increase in the health insurance premium to 20% starting January 2025. The Union also agreed to language that requires annual physicals and provides an on-site option for physical examinations. A new position, Division Chief has been implemented to ensure training compliance within the department.
Wage increases are driven by a differential based on the Local 99 contract. For 2022-2025, the wage increase is 3.5% per year.

• Approved was a Resolution to establish a fee schedule for digital message boards and digital off-premise signs (billboards) licenses.
The purpose is to establish the fee schedule for digital message boards and digital off-premise signs (billboard) licenses.
City government of Aurora documents show on December 21, 2021 pursuant to O21-87 and O21-91 the City government adopted a new sign ordinance. The new Ordinance provides for digital message boards and digital off-premise signs (billboards) to be licensed by the City under sections 41-15(a), 41-16(b) and 25-291.
Pursuant to section 25-292 digital message boards and digital off-premise signs (billboard) license fees should be determined and adopted by City Council.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing an intergovernmental agreement confirming the distribution of personal property replacement tax revenues to the Aurora Public Library District between the city government of Aurora and the Aurora Public Library District for the Years 2022-2027.
The purpose of the resolution is to set forth the amount and terms under which the City will allocate a portion of the Personal Property Replacement Tax (PPRT) revenue that it receives from the State of Illinois to the Aurora Public Library District. 
City government of Aurora documents show by statute, the City government must distribute a portion (6.36%) of its PPRT revenue stream to the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) annually. PPRT revenues will vary on an annual basis. The amount that the State distributes is based on its collections of PPRT Revenue. In order to provide budgetary certainty for both the City and the Library, the City has allocated $500,000 from its PPRT revenue stream to the Library since 2005. In most years this allocation to the Library exceeds the City’s statutory obligation for distribution, however recent trends in PPRT revenues reflect that the statutory obligation will likely be higher than $500,000 in future years.
Staff members from both agencies are comfortable with an annual allocation of $500,000 to the APLD for the years 2022-2027 inclusive. During 2027, the agreement would be revisited to determine if any adjustment to the conditions of the IGA need to be changed.
When the Library was operated by the City, the City levied real estate and personal property taxes to support the operations of the Library. Personal property taxes were abolished in Illinois in 1979 and “Personal Property Replacement Taxes” (PPRT) were enacted to replace the lost revenue. When PPRT was established, provisions in the statutes were enacted requiring municipalities to continue allocations of PPRT revenues for the same purposes as the previously levied personal property taxes. In the City’s case, this meant that 6.36% of the PPRT had to be allocated for library purposes.
During the implementation of PPRT, the City operated the Library. During 2005 the decision was made to allocate a flat $500,000 of PPRT revenue for the support of the operations of the Library. The City has allocated essentially $500,000 for Library purposes in every year since 2005 with minor variances noted in 2014 and 2015.
The Aurora Public Library District was formed on July 1, 2020, effectively separating the Library District from the City and removing City oversight from Library District finances and all other aspects of the Library District’s operations. Under the auspices of state statutes, specifically the state’s Revenue Sharing Act, the City remains obligated to pay to the Library 6.36% of its PPRT on annual basis.
Staff members from both agencies wish to formalize an understanding of the amount of PPRT funding that the City will allocate for Library District purposes each year and further set forth the manner in which those allocations will be distributed to the Library District. Staff members from both agencies are comfortable with the current arrangement of providing a distribution of $500,000 annually. 
As mentioned previously, the amount of PPRT revenue varies annually. Allocating a percentage of the revenue received annually would result in differing levels of PPRT distributions to the APLD annually depending upon City collections. Allocating a consistent dollar amount of PPRT to the APLD annually provides a measure of budgetary certainty for both the City and the APLD. In most years, the amount due to the Library under the City’s statutory obligation has been lower than $500,000 but in the past 2 years it has been close to or exceeded the $500,000 threshold. It is anticipated that the 2023 statutory 6.36% PPRT revenue allocation again exceed $500,000
In addition, the boundaries of the City and the APLD are coterminous. The constituency served by both agencies is exactly the same. This method of allocation further reduces administration of the revenue stream and payments. Instead of the City having to calculate the precise amount due to the APLD for each distribution, the City can set up a recurring consistent payment to be made to the APLD each month.
Passage of the Resolution provides operating funding to the Aurora Public Library District for its continued operations and fulfills the City’s obligation to distribute a portion of its PPRT revenues to the Library District

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing ratification of payment in the amount of $211,023.61 for expenses incurred by the Aurora Civic Center Authority related to Fiestas Patrias 2022.
City government of Aurora documents show the Aurora Civic Center Authority was a valued partner in the execution of Fiestas Patrias 2022. The costs related to the event included the expenses for the usage of RiverEdge Park for the two-day event, including stagehands, REP staffing, security, equipment rental, etc. and the expenses for live entertainment.
The Aurora Civic Center Authority executed all of the entertainment contracts that included all payments to performers and any related backstage costs outlined in the performers’ contracts. The payment is to reimburse the costs incurred.
Fiestas Patrias 2022 was tremendously successful. The expenses and revenues for the event were carefully forecasted. The event generated a net income that will be used for scholarships for the Latino youth in Aurora.
While this event was budgeted, a budget transfer/amendment will be required to be submitted to account 215-1026-450.50-57 in the amount of $135,000.
Fiestas Patras 2022 generated public attendance of over 15,000 people over two days. The event was made possible with the partnership of the City of Aurora, Aurora Hispanic Heritage Advisory Board, and the Aurora Civic Center Authority.

• Approved was an Ordinance authorizing the acquisition of real property at 101 North River Street on terms to be negotiated by the mayor or through eminent domain if necessary.
City government of Aurora documents show that in order to continue the successful redevelopment of Aurora’s downtown, the City government purchases properties when they become available on the market. The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development (MOED) team has met with the property owner of the above parcel and has negotiated a purchase contract.
Properties that have turned from productive use to disuse are found in cities, more often due to the economy downturns and change in the business environment. These properties vary widely in size, shape, former use, and are a symptom of larger economic forces.
The City government, however, has increasingly viewed vacant and underutilized properties as opportunities for productive reuse, reimagining blight and dilapidation as new flywheel opportunities for a brighter future that holds residential and economic development opportunities.
The City, in its best interest to preserve and maintain the wellbeing of its community and economic environment, has proactively anticipated the possible negative spillover effects of properties not used to their best capacities or left vacant.
The acquisition of land exercised by local governments is not something new, and it is geared to avoid vacancies, disruption and quality of life in the public’s interest. City staff members will proactively work on moving properties into responsible ownership and productive uses as envisioned by long range plans and corridor studies soon to come to fruition.
Under three separate agenda items, MOED is recommending the purchase of three separate properties as noted below:
1) 101 N River Street, Tax Pin 15-22-326-001 (BeeBee Property)
2) 16 S. LaSalle Street (JoCo Parking Lot) Tax Pin 15-22-377-021
3) 8 parcels at the northerly quadrant of River Street and Cedar Street (Das’s/Fox Valley Hotel). 302-316 N River Street, 109-155 Cedar Street
Tax Pins: 15-22-177-012; 15-22-177-013; 15-22-177-014; 15-22-177-015; 15-22-177-016; 15-22-177-017; 15-22-177-007; 15-22-177-008
Each of the above referenced parcels is in a different section of the City downtown. 
101 N. River Street (the BeeBee property) is adjacent to the new development opportunities in the northwest sector of the downtown.
The City continues to make long-term decisions to improve the downtown as a center for entertainment, living and business activities. Most, if not all of the development agreements approved in the past several years have involved the purchase, donation or swap of land to support the given development activity. 
The total anticipated costs for the BeeBee Property is:

• Property – $150,000.00
• Reasonable Closing Costs – $25,000.00 (est.)
  Funding for these purchases will involve the amendment of a previous agreement with DAC Development and will also require a budget amendment. Originally, the DAC development deal was to be funded from a variety of sources including $963,000.00 for soft costs to get the project started. These costs have been incurred and were funded from General Fund reserves per the Council approval in Resolution R 21-204. MOED staff members and the chief financial officer, Chris Minick, are recommending that a large portion of these expenses be funded from Tax Increment Financing District #1, which closes at the end of 2022. Per this development agreement, one parcel of the DAC development was already in TIF #1, and the other two parcels are contiguous with TIF #1 and therefore funds can be spent from TIF #1 in the other TIF (East River Bend TIF). After this transfer/amendment is completed, funding for these land purchases will be as follows:
  General Fund Reserves (from the exchange of funding for DAC redevelopment expenses now covered by TIF #1) – $780,000.00 for the Fox Valley Motel Purchase. City staff members are requesting, as noted above, the approval to transfer the DAC Development soft costs of $963,000 from the General Fund to the new TIF set up for DAC Development. This transfer will allow the General Fund to finance this purchase at $780,000 with only $130,000.00 being expended from the General Fund once the DAC expenses have been transferred to the East River Bend TIF.
  TIF #1 – $750,000.00 for the JoCo Purchase/closing costs at $575,000.00 including estimated closing costs and $175,00000 for the BeeBee Purchase/closing costs. Land is an eligible expense for Tax Increment Financing. The BeeBee Property and the JoCo Parking Lot are both within TIF #1.
  A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) has been completed and has identified recognized environmental conditions (RECs), consistent with the past use of the property, which will be addressed at the time of requalification or redevelopment.
  The total land not to exceed purchase price is $750,000.00 for the Fox River Hotel parcels, $150,000.00 for the BeeBee property, and $550,000.00 for the JoCo parking lot property for a total not to exceed purchase price of $1,450.000.00. Estimated closing costs for the Fox River Hotel is $30,000.00, the Bee Property is $25,000.00 and for the JoCo Parking lot property is $25,000, for a total Estimated closing costs of $80,000.00.
  The purchase of the BeeBee property will provide greater flexibility in future development opportunities in the downtown.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing a renewal of a 3-year software agreement with Everbridge, Inc., Pasadena, Calif., in the total amount of $109,629.03 for public safety notification platform.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose of the Everbridge software platform is to provide a notification solution for both resident and employee emergency and non-emergency notifications.
The Everbridge platform allows the City to notify residents and City staff members no matter what language they speak via SMS Text, Facebook, on a Smartphone or automated voice dial-out using a land-line telephone. The Everbridge platform uses a recipients preferences in a priority order set up by the recipient.
The Everbridge platform has been utilized successfully over the current contract period to inform residents and City staff members of emergencies and other notifications and is set to expire December 31, 2022. The use of the platform has been so successful, the City’s Emergency Management Division will be expanding the use of the platform in 2023.
As was done in the previous Everbridge renewals, annual payments of $36,543.01 will be split evenly between the accounts listed below.
101-1280-419.45-99
255-1280-419.45-99
Pricing was quoted using GSA Contract # GS-35F-0692P with an expiration date of July 18, 2024 and remains nearly unchanged since the 2019 renewal.
The City government will leverage the capabilities of the Everbridge system to enhance their ability to communicate with both staff members and the residents of Aurora.

• Approved was a Resolution superseding all previous resolutions pertaining to and amending salary and benefit plans for employees in the non-exempt pay plan.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain City Council approval to amend the salary and benefit plan for employees in the Non-Exempt Pay Plan for 2023.
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.
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.
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 government budget.
The pay plan reflects a 3.5% cost of living adjustment to all pay grades.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing Trotsky Investigative Polygraph, Inc. as the provider for services of pre-employment polygraph assessments through December 31, 2022.
City government of Aurora documents show Trotsky Polygraph is a company specializing in polygraph assessments. All public safety employees, including police and fire personnel, are required to pass a polygraph assessment to move forward in the hiring process. As one of the only providers in the area, the City has utilized Trotsky Polygraph to administer pre-employment polygraph assessments for public safety employees since 2014.
The City government is approaching the $50,000 threshold for bill payments and anticipate further use of Trotsky’s services.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing Stanard and Associates as the provider for services of pre-employment psychological assessments through December 31, 2022.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain approval for payment to Stanard and Associates for services rendered in 2022 for pre-employment psychological assessments.
Stanard and Associates is a premier company specializing in psychological assessment for public safety employees. All public safety employees, including police and fire personnel, are required to pass a psychological assessment to move forward in the hiring process. The City has utilized Stanard and Associates to administer pre-employment psychological assessments for public safety employees for more than sixteen years.

• Approved was an Ordinance authorizing the acquisition of real property at 16 South LaSalle Street on terms to be negotiated by the mayor or through eminent domain if necessary.
City government of Aurora documents show in order to continue the successful redevelopment of the City’s downtown, the City purchases properties when they become available on the market. The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development (MOED) team has met with the property owner of the above parcel and has negotiated a purchase contract.
Properties that have turned from productive use to disuse are found in cities, more often due to the economy downturns and change in the business environment. These properties vary widely in size, shape, former use, and are a symptom of larger economic forces.
The City government, however, has increasingly viewed vacant and underutilized properties as opportunities for productive reuse, reimagining blight and dilapidation as new flywheel opportunities for a brighter future that holds residential and economic development opportunities.
The City, in its best interest to preserve and maintain the wellbeing of its community and economic environment, has proactively anticipated the possible negative spillover effects of properties not used to their best capacities or left vacant.
The acquisition of land exercised by local governments is not something new, and it is geared to avoid vacancies, disruption, and quality of life in the the public’s interest. City staff members will proactively work on moving properties into responsible ownership and productive uses as envisioned by long range plans and corridor studies soon to come to fruition.
Under three separate agenda items, MOED is recommending the purchase of three separate properties as noted below:
1) 101 N River Street, Tax Pin 15-22-326-001 (BeeBee Property)
2) 16 S. LaSalle Street (JoCo Parking Lot) Tax Pin 15-22-377-021
3) 8 parcels at the northerly quadrant of River Street and Cedar Street (Das’s/Fox Valley Hotel). 302-316 N River Street, 109-155 Cedar Street
Tax Pins: 15-22-177-012; 15-22-177-013; 15-22-177-014; 15-22-177-015; 15-22-177-016; 15-22-177-017; 15-22-177-007; 15-22-177-008
Each of the above referenced parcels is in a different section of downtown Aurora.  
16 S. LaSalle Street is the JoCo parking lot, just west of Broadway off of Galena Blvd. As redevelopment occurs in the downtown, additional surface lot parking may be needed for public use to support restaurants and local businesses
The City continues to make long-term decisions to improve the downtown as a center for entertainment, living and business activities. Most, if not all of the development agreements approved in the past several years have involved the purchase, donation or swap of land to support the given development activity. 
The total anticipated costs for the JoCo Parking Lot property is:
Property – $550,000.00
Reasonable Closing Costs – $25,000.00 (est.)
Funding for these purchases will involve the amendment of a previous agreement with DAC Development and will also require a budget amendment. Originally, the DAC development deal was to be funded from a variety of sources including $963,000.00 for soft costs to get the project started. These costs have been incurred and were funded from General Fund reserves per the Council approval in Resolution R 21-204. MOED staff members and the chief financial officer, Chris Minick are recommending that these expenses be funded from Tax Increment Financing District #1, which closes at the end of 2022. Per this development agreement, one parcel of the DAC development was already in TIF #1, and the other two parcels are contiguous with TIF #1 and therefore funds can be spent from TIF #1 in the other TIF (East River Bend TIF). After this transfer/amendment is completed, funding for these land purchases will be as follows:
General Fund Reserves (from the exchange of funding for DAC redevelopment expenses now covered by TIF #1) – $780,000.00 for the Fox Valley Motel Purchase. City staff members are requesting, as noted above, the approval to transfer the DAC Development soft costs of $963,000 from the General Fund to the new TIF set up for DAC Development. This transfer will allow the General Fund to finance this purchase at $780,000 with only $130,000.00 being expended from the General Fund once the DAC expenses have been transferred to the East River Bend TIF.
TIF #1 – $750,000.00 for the JoCo Purchase/closing costs at $575,000.00 including estimated closing costs and $175,00000 for the BeeBee Purchase/closing costs. Land is an eligible expense for Tax Increment Financing. The BeeBee Property and the JoCo Parking Lot are both within TIF #1.
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) has been completed and has identified recognized environmental conditions (RECs), consistent with the past use of the property, which will be addressed at the time of requalification or redevelopment.
The total land not to exceed purchase price is $750,000.00 for the Fox River Hotel parcels, $150,000.00 for the BeeBee property, and $550,000.00 for the JoCo parking lot property for a total not to exceed purchase price of $1,450.000.00. Estimated closing costs for the Fox River Hotel is $30,000.00, the Bee Property is $25,000.00 and for the JoCo Parking lot property is $25,000, for a total Estimated closing costs of $80,000.00.
The purchase of the JoCo parking lot property will provide greater flexibility in future development opportunities in the downtown.

• 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, 2022 through December 31, 2023.
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, E Drone Liability from American Alternative Insurance Company, Excess General Liability/Law Enforcement/Auto Liability Insurance from Safety National, Homesite, Kinsale, HDI, Gemini/Berkley, Hallmark Insurance Company 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, 2022 through December 31, 2023.
The City government 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. 2021-22 total program cost including broker service fee was $1,775,454.00.
The City government’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 maintain all its present coverages despite these results.
Hub is recommending a renewal of the casualty lines for the City government’s excess general liability coverages which would maintain the self-insured retention by the City at $2M and have Safety National for the first $5M layer beyond the SIR and then Homesite and Kinsale participating in the next $10M. HDI Global would cover next $5M to complete the $15M. Gemini/Berkely would have the next $5M to $20M. Hallmark would have the next $5M layer to $25M lever and Great American would have the next $10M to complete the final layer to $35M total coverage. Approval of this six-layer coverage structure will maintain the desired excess liability coverage of $35M above the City’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 reflects 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 34% rate hike due to on-going market conditions attributed to supply chain issues and inflation as well as adverse city claim losses over the past 3 years including a 2021 water damage claim that settled out in 2022 at nearly $1.5M.
The bottom-line overall premium for all lines of coverage the renewal represents a bottom-line rate increase of 23% 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 a 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 2022-23 is $2,183,659.00 as compared to $1,775,454.00 for 2021-22. Funds for these insurance policies are budgeted for in the Property and Casualty Fund budget.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing a one-year contract with Air One Equipment for the purchase of protective gear for the Fire Department in amount not to exceed $304,500.00, with two optional one-year extensions.
The purpose is to approve a resolution for the purchase issued protective gear for members of the Aurora Fire Department for a period of one year with the option for two 1-year extensions using Air One Equipment as the regional sole source provider.
City government of Aurora documents show the protective gear contract held by Air One Equipment expires on December 31, 2022. Therefore, a new contract is needed to continue to provide contractually mandated items to the Aurora Fire Department at the beginning of 2023.
The Aurora Fire Department has used Globe protective gear since 2016 and has been very pleased with the comfort and performance it provides.
Air One Equipment was the previous protective gear supplier through Bid 19-71, which extended from January 1,2020 through December 31, 2022. 
Prior to Air One Equipment, Dinges Fire Company of Amboy Ill. provided the department with Globe protective gear from January 1, 2016 until October 1, 2019, when they no longer carried Globe products.
A new contract for protective gear is necessary to replace worn and damaged items as well as provide the items to new hires in accordance with the collective bargaining agreements.
In 2016 and 2018, (the timeframe when the Dinges Fire Company sold Globe protective gear) the Dinges Fire Company was awarded the contract beating out competing vendors who represented Lion, Honeywell, and Innotex protective gear, (the other three major brands of protective gear). In 2020 Air One Equipment was awarded the bid with Globe protective gear, again beating out the three other major brands of protecting clothing.
Per City of Aurora Code 2-335(a)(3), when a regional sole source is confirmed, a formal bid process is not required. Globe products covered by this regional sole source are:
Bunker Coat – Globe “Tails”, or evaluated equal;
Bunker Pants – Globe (compatible with “Tails” coat) or evaluated equal;
Fire Boots – Globe 14” structural fire boot, pull on, or evaluated equal;
While the Fire Helmet, MSA Cairns 880 Traditional, or evaluated equal is not part of the Globe product line, the ease of having one source for ordering all the protective gear is requested. Staff members received quotes for the helmet from other vendors and confirmed Air One is providing the lowest price. 
Funds are expected to be appropriated in the Fire Department’s 2023 budget to provide $304,500.00 in account #101-3033-422.20-20 for the purchase of new gear and replacement clothing unding for this item is provided in account.
The impact will require the Purchasing Department to create a new open purchase order for the vendors due to the amount of times throughout the 2023, 2024 and 2025 fiscal years when orders will be placed.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the purchase of one 2022 Wheeled Coach Ford F-550 4×4 gas type 1 ambulance from Fire Service Inc., St. John, Indiana in the amount of $342,563.00 for the Aurora Fire Department.
The purpose is to purchase one 2022 Wheeled Coach Ford F-550 4×4 gas Type I ambulance, from Fire Service Inc. to replace a 2016 ambulance that has 85,961 miles and reached the end of its service life as a front-line vehicle as recommended by Equipment Services.
City government of Aurora documents show the Aurora Fire Department routinely replaces vehicles that are nearing or have exceeded their service life for a frontline ambulance as recommended by Equipment Services. Medic 8 is a 2016 ambulance that has met the criteria for replacement. The fire department desires to make Medic 8 a temporary Medic 13 at station 9 until Medic 13 arrives late 2023 or early 2024.
Fire Service Inc. is the area dealer for the Wheeled Coach brand ambulance. The city of Aurora government last purchased a Wheeled Coach ambulance from Fire Service Inc. in April 2022. The Fire Service, Inc. contract with the City of Aurora contains language that allows the right to add additional units to that contract, with a guaranteed maximum mark-up (tag-on language)
After further discussion with Derrick Winston from Fleet services City officials changed to an F-550 4×4 chassis in 2020 because the F-450 chassis was overloaded with all the equipment carried and the Power load. The government would have a savings of approximately $2,500.00 annually for tire replacement and alignments due to over loading of the chassis.
City officials request the ability to exercise this right and purchase an additional ambulance based on that language. Funds have been approved for 2023 and will be made available in account 255-3033-422.75-30 for this purchase, with a budgeted amount of $342,563.00. In addition, $20,000.00 has been budgeted in account 255-3033-422.3889 for the set up of the vehicle for a total price $362,563.00.

• Approved was a Resolution awarding Tavarez & Sons Lawn Care and Guardian Landscape of Aurora, as the 2022 -2023 winter season contractors, with possible two 1-year extensions, for snow removal and ice control services (as a part of the Senior and Disability Services Division’s Operation Senior Shovel program which provides these services for eligible seniors and individuals living with disabilities) within the city of Aurora.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain City Council approval for Snow Removal and Ice Control Services for the Operation Senior Shovel Program which provides these services for eligible seniors and individuals living with disabilities within the city limits.
Senior and Disability Services is responsible for identifying gaps in services/resources for Aurora seniors and individuals living with disabilities, then producing innovative ways to provide supplementary solutions to enhance their life and legacy as residents in the City of Aurora. During the 12 stop senior listening tour, snow removal support was identified as a significant need amongst this population, and this is the City government’s response to this identified need. This was a pilot last year and City officials are scaling the service this year by including partial contracted services for about 75 identified residences. The identified residences will be split between the two contractors.
A formal bid request was sent out for the Snow Removal and Ice Control Services for private residential properties within the City of Aurora. This is an expanded component of the Operation Senior Shovel program which provides this service for eligible seniors and individuals living with disabilities. A response was received from 2 vendors with Tavarez & Sons Lawn Care and Guardian Landscape of Aurora, being the only responsible bidders.
This bid is subject to the local preference ordinance; however, it did not impact the decision.
Contract will be for 1 year with the option to extend for an additional two years upon mutual consent between the City and the vendor.  
2023 funding for senior and disability services, snow removal and ice control services as a part of the Operation Senior Shovel program will be account 101-1372-440.50-80.
This resolution must be approved in order to provide Snow Removal and Ice Control Services for identified and eligible seniors and individuals living with disabilities (as a part of the Operation Senior Shovel program) within the City of Aurora limits.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the award of a contract for the 2022 and 2023 citywide sanitary sewer CIPP lining project to Hoerr Construction Inc., in the bid amount of two million forty-two thousand one hundred twenty-five dollars and eighty cents ($2,042,125.80).
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to rehabilitate the existing sanitary sewer main throughout the City by cured in place pipe lining.
The contract was originally awarded to the lowest bidder National Power Rodding (NPR) as part of resolution R22-294. Prior to construction, the City government asked to remove the two largest 42” and 60” lining items. As a result, NPR requested to raise the cost of half of the remaining pay items approximately 16%. The City was unwilling to accept that request and it was mutually agreed to not proceed with the project prior to any work being completed. This resolution is requesting to award the contract to the 2nd lowest bidder, Hoerr Construction, whom is honoring their bid prices without installation of the 42” and 60” liners.
Closures of entrances to the businesses and residences will be kept to a minimum during construction.
Five bids were received, opened, and read aloud on September 19, 2022. The tabulation also shows that with the elimination of the original NPR bid, Hoerr Construction’s bid is now the lowest bid. The bid in the amount of ($2,042,125.80) was submitted by Hoerr Construction Inc., with the removal of the 42” & 60” pay items. $1,958,987.80 will be funded with account 510-4063-511-73-14 (IB018) which has a requested 2023 budget amount of $2,500,000.00. $83,138.00 will be funded with account 280-1852-512-81-23 (B037) which has a requested 2023 budget amount of $400,000.00.
This project was subject to the Local Preference Ordinance, however no local contractors submitted.

• Approved was an Ordinance amending Chapter 49 of the Code of Ordinances, city of Aurora, (Zoning Ordinance), to modify certain definitions and administrative processes.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose of the Ordinance is to add/modify certain definitions and cleanup certain sections of administrative processes within the Zoning Ordinance.   
In 2020, the Zoning and Planning Division and the Law Department conducted a general update of the Zoning Ordinance to codify changes over the past 50 years into Chapter 49 of the Code of Ordinances and to simplify the chapter by creating a new Chapter 34 that contained all the procedures and processes that was in the Zoning Ordinance. This proposed Text Amendment builds upon those previous efforts to update and modify definitions and to cleanup administrative processes sections that were overlooked. 
Over the last year, employees of the Zoning and Planning Division have noticed that the definition section of the Zoning Ordinance does not include definitions for some of the use categories. This amendment would begin the process of adding needed definitions to the use categories based upon definitions that the department, by internal policy, has been referencing. The definitions are based upon the Land-Based Classification Standards published by the American Planning Organization but have been modified to be specific to reflect the needs of Aurora. The definitions being added is for Use Category 3300 Warehouse, Distribution & Storage Services along with an edit to the Electronic Data Storage Center, an establishment classified in the 3300 Use Category.
In addition to definitions, this Text Amendment also includes cleanups to the administrative processes. As part of the 2020 update, certain sections were missed from the removal. This current Text Amendment proposes to remove portions of the Overlay section that is also currently in Chapter 34.
The proposal would also update the Conditional Use Planned Development section to clarify ambiguous language, to update the section to more clearly reflect how Conditional Use Planned Developments have been historically used in Aurora, and to ensure that the process is able to be used for its overall purpose, which is to allow for the creation of more unified site plans based upon current zoning and land development practices.
City staff members have reviewed the text amendment ordinance petition and have determined that it meets the applicable codes and ordinances.

• Approved was a Resolution to enter into a facility use agreement with School District 129.
The purpose is to enter into an agreement to allow the City to use School District 129 facilities for the remainder of the District’s 2022-2023 School year.
City government of Aurora documents show several alderpersons have requested to use School District 129 facilities for meetings or other community events. The District’s standard Facility Use Agreement requires an application for each use; and each application would require City Council approval.
This agreement establishes provisions for the City’s use of the District’s facilities. It outlines policies for use, insurance requirements, and provides for the City to indemnify the District in the event of any losses related to the City’s use of their facilities.
Entering into this agreement with School District 129 will allow for the City government to use the District’s facilities through June 30, 2023.

• Approved was a Resolution to enter into a three year ATM space lease agreement with Old Second Bank.
Old Second Bank has five ATMs throughout the City. There is one ATM at each train station, the Police Station, City Hall and the Phillips Park Golf Course. The last ATM lease was executed in 2007, and has since expired.
City government of Aurora documents show the City government and Old Second both seek to continue the relationship allowing the Bank to place ATMs at various City locations. Executing the lease will allow the City government to collect rent for the five locations and allow the Bank to continue to benefit from the placement of these ATMS.
This resolution will have a positive impact on the City by allowing City patrons access to ATMs and the City collect rent on the lease agreement.

• Approved was a Resolution authorizing the renewal of third-party administrative services with Broadspire Services, Inc. for the City government’s general liability, auto liability claims and workers’ compensation claims for the period of January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain approval of a one year renewal agreement with Broadspire Services, Inc. for third-party administrative services for the City’s general & auto liability claims and for workers’ compensation claims.
Broadspire has been the City’s third-party administrator for general and auto liability claims since January 1, 2002 and workers compensation claims since August 15, 1999. The expiring contract was for a three-year term approved in 2019. Their key services have included the processing of claim payments, assisting in negotiating and resolving liability and workers compensation claims within applicable City guidelines and authority granted by the City of Aurora for support and administration of its self-insured liability and workers compensation programs.
Broadspire has been an effective and efficient third-party administrator in all areas of claims management. They are very familiar with City government operations and have worked well with City staff members as well as outside defense counsel in handling and resolving a variety of often complex and time-consuming claims and litigation against the City. They provide monthly loss run reports, pay bills, investigate and handle claims timely and accurately and conduct quarterly claim reviews with staff members and outside counsel to monitor status and discuss all pending claims.
Because of the City government’s longstanding partnership, the desire for continuity and consistency of claims handling operations and in recognition of some enhanced internal efficiencies both in Human Resources and Law/Risk Management, the parties have negotiated a one year renewal for 2023 for $77,313.00, which represents an approximately 27% reduction from the expiring 2022 contract cost which was $105,554.

• Approved was an Ordinance for the establishment of Special Service Area Number #209 for stormwater management purposes related to Redwood Aurora (North of Indian Trail and East of North Randall Road) Aurora.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to establish a dormant Special Service Area in accordance with the City’s stormwater control ordinance. 
This SSA was proposed on July 26, 2022. The public hearing for the proposed establishment of SSA #209 was held on September 27, 2022. The Kane County Stormwater Management Ordinance, which the City has adopted by reference, provides that public entities shall establish a special service area, in the manner set forth in Illinois law, to serve as a backup vehicle to fund the maintenance of stormwater drainage system or facilities required by law or ordinance, in the event that the property’s owners fail to do so, as a condition for the issuance of a stormwater management permit. The proposed SSA is “dormant” in the sense that the City will not levy a tax in the SSA unless the owners of the property fail to maintain the stormwater facilities requiring the City to do so in their stead.
Dormant SSAs are a mechanism for the City government to tax owners of property to pay the cost of the ongoing maintenance of stormwater control facilities in the event the owners fail to maintain the facilities themselves. This backup funding mechanism is a prerequisite for stormwater permit issuance and the City does not levy taxes in the SSA except when required to maintain the facilities.
There is no immediate impact to this action, however if the City government fails to establish the SSA, it will have limited recourse against the developer (or a subsequent purchaser) in the event it fails to maintain and repair onsite stormwater retention, detention, drainage control systems and common areas.

• Approved was a Resolution concerning the review of “closed” executive session minutes.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is for Council approval to open certain “closed” executive session minutes.
Pursuant to statutory requirements, review is required of “closed” minutes in order to ascertain whether confidentiality is still required, or whether minutes can be opened to the public.
The impact of review is to ensure transparency of public records and make appropriate records available for review by the public.

• Approved was a Resolution for reduction No. 1 for Lincoln Crossing, 2021.017, SEC of Wolf Crossing and Eola Road in Aurora, Ward 9.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to approve reduction No. 1 for Lincoln Crossing.
Pursuant to Section 43-55(a)(3)(d) of Aurora’s Municipal Code, the Developer of the project posted a security to ensure completion of these proposed public improvements including, water supply systems, storm sewer systems, sanitary sewer systems, sidewalks and roadway improvements and is now seeking council approval for reduction per subsection.
This development has completed some portion and inspections of these required public improvements and is requiresting a reduction to the original Subdivision Bond, in conformance with said subsection (d). The completed values of these improvements have been certified and submitted by the developer’s Engineer. These values have been verified by city of Aurora engineering and consultants as correct and are eligible to be recommended for this reduction.
This action has no current impact to existing or new public infrastructure as it relates to various divisions for maintenance, including the Division of Water and Sewer Maintenance; the Water production Division; the Street Maintenance Division; the Electrical Division.

• Approved was a Resolution for reduction No. 1 for Lincoln Crossing – mass grading only, SEC of Wolf Crossings and Eola Road in Aurora’s Ward 9.
City government of Aurora documents show pursuant to Section 43-55(a)(3)(d) of Aurora’s Municipal Code, the Developer of the project posted a security to ensure completion of these proposed public improvements including, stormwater managements facilities and storm sewer improvements and is now seeking council approval for reduction per subsection (d).
This development has completed some portion and inspections of these required public improvements and is requesting a reduction to the original subdivision bond, in conformance with said subsection (d). The completed values of these improvements have been certified and submitted by the developer’s Engineer. These values have been verified by the city government of Aurora engineering and consultants as correct and are eligible to be recommended for this reduction.
This action has no current impact to existing or new public infrastructure as it relates to various divisions for maintenance.

• Approved was a Resolution to accept the public improvements and maintenance security for the completed Alden Superior Waterford- Lot 7, 1865 Audra Circle in Aurora’s Ward 7.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to accept the public improvements installed by the Developer of this project and to approve the establishment of the required, one year, 20% maintenance security for these improvements.
This is a residential development that constructed duplexes and a club house in Aurora which included public improvements. In accordance with Section 43-55(a)(3) of Aurora’s Municipal Code, the Developer of the Project posted a security to ensure completion of these proposed public improvements including, storm water management and storm sewer improvements for the site.
This development has now completed all installations, inspections and submissions that make it eligible to be recommended by the Engineering Division for final acceptance of these improvements and for the Developer to establish the required one year maintenance security. As required by Section 43-103(c) of the Municipal Code, the Engineering Division has reviewed, approved and filed as-constructed record plans of the development which depict these public improvements and has completed and approved a final site inspection of said improvements through an onsite consultant. Based on a review and approved site inspection, it is recommend by the Engineering Division, that City Council accept the public improvements, as well as; require as a condition of this acceptance that the developer submit the required one year maintenance security at a value of 20% of the original developments security.
This action adds or replaces public infrastructure – utilities to various divisions for maintenance, including the Division of Water and Sewer Maintenance; the all of which have been apprised of these new or replaced utilities.