By Jason Crane
The Aurora City Council unanimously approved an Ordinance authorizing the purchase of 3.16 acres of property to facilitate the construction of a new Fire Station #9 at the City Council meeting, Tuesday, Sept. 12.
The property, known as the Hamman property, is at 7S330 Eola Road, between New York Street and Liberty Street. At this time, Station #9 is at 2339 Diehl Road.
City government of Aurora documents show to meet nationally-recognized service standards and improve response times avoiding real danger to residents and businesses from increasingly long emergency response times, the site was chosen.
Staff members have negotiated a purchase contract for a suitable location for the new Fire Station #9 because it will meet the needs of the Aurora Fire Department.
Station location analysis has been conducted. The analysis began with an evaluation of the distribution of apparatus and personnel throughout the Department’s service area relative to demand for the Department’s services and the ability to meet system performance goals adopted by the Department.
Staff members investigated several properties, contacted several property owners, and to efficiently and timely address the needs of the community, has been able to have the Eola Road property owner commit to sell the Property to the city of Aurora government.
The underutilized property was annexed in 2005 with ordinance O2005-129 following an annexation agreement approved with ordinance O2005-128. The property was zoned Office with a Special Use originally intended for the construction of a U.S. Post Office which never came to fruition.
The new fire station, which will in addition, serve as a training center, will replace the existing station at the 2339 Diehl Road. The new station will be subject to further entitlements including a landscaping plan and elevations that will be subject to City review.
Fire Station 9 will be in operation until the new station is built and in operation. Once the former station is retired from its operation, that real estate will be marketed for suitable redevelopment opportunities in keeping with market trends and community needs.
When staff members approached the sellers, the property was featured at $1,200,000 or $8.71/SF. Staff members were able to negotiate the sale price down to $950,000 or $6.90/SF.
The total anticipated costs for the acquisition of the property is:
Property – $950,000,
Closing costs – $20,000,
Funding for this purchase has been budgeted in the GO Bond for 2022.
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) has been ordered. It is not anticipated that past uses of the property will impede the redevelopment as presented.
The purchase of the property will provide greater distribution of Fire Department apparatus and personnel.
The meeting can be viewed on the city government of Aurora’s YouTube page by clicking here.
The City Council approved the following agenda items:
- Approved was a Resolution appointing Sumera Galvez to the Human Relations Commission.
City government of Aurora documents show Sumera Galvez is a resident of the 4th Ward and the owner of Aura Holistic & Metaphysical Wellness.
- Approved was a Resolution appointing David Pedersen to the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Transit Advisory Board.
City government of Aurora documents show David Pedersen is a resident of the 5th Ward and the owner of Pedersen Design LLC and a member of the Aurora Rotary Club.
- Approved was a Resolution appointing Adwik Panda and Sai Sravya Yetukuri to the Aurora Youth Council.
City government of Aurora documents show the nomination represents two new candidates. Adwik Panda is a resident of the 1st Ward and a freshman at Metea Valley High School. Sai Sravya Yetukuri is a resident of the 8th Ward and a sophomore at Waubonsie Valley High School.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing the Ward 1 Business Grant Program 50/50 match up to $5,000.00 per project per year for any qualifying businesses for the purpose of upgrading or improving the exterior of their property.
City government of Aurora documents show the property must have a business zoning or equivalent and be operated as such. The business must be within the Ward 1 boundaries of the City of Aurora. Any qualifying business in Ward 1 may apply for the matching grant up to $5,000.00 for the purpose of upgrading or improving the exterior of their property.
Alderman Emmanuel Llamas and the Ward 1 Committee will receive applications from business owners within Ward 1 for exterior and other improvements to their buildings or property, as approved by the Committee. Applications will be accepted on Ward 1 forms, reviewed, and approved subject to availability money in the Ward 1 Business Grant Program. Applicants must provide a minimum of three bids or estimates where possible for the proposed work, along with their application. All bids shall be obtained from contractors that pay prevailing wage consistent with Illinois law, 820 ILCS 130 et. Seq. This program will not be extended past the current alderman’s term.
$20,000.00 has been allocated for this program in the Ward 1 account 311-1350-419.50-99.
Approval of the program will support business property owners and tenants to improve their buildings and enhance their appearance.
- Approved was a Resolution to approve Change Order #1 with Geneva Construction Co. in the amount of $160,000.00 for the Spruce Street Watermain Repair and additional City-Wide Resurfacing Project costs.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to approve Change Order #1 to the 2023 City Wide Resurfacing Project.
Due to a large watermain break, the pavement along Spruce St between Lake St and River St has heaved and been significantly damaged. Additionally, as the City-Wide Resurfacing Project has worked through several wards, it has been determined that more concrete deterioration has occurred over the previous winter than initially anticipated.
Geneva Construction Co. is under contract for the 2023 City Wide Resurfacing Project. Bids for this project were opened and publicly read on April 5, 2023, and Geneva Construction Co. was determined to be the lowest responsible bidder. Construction on the project has been ongoing throughout the summer. The current contract value of the project is $9,471,220.17.
A large watermain break occurred along Spruce St earlier this year. The resulting water release caused significant structural damage to a section of Spruce St as evidenced by pavement heaving. The area was temporarily patched, but a more significant long-term repair is needed for the middle of the block which is still damaged.
City staff members recommend completing this repair work under the 2023 City Wide Resurfacing which would allow for less expensive repair compared to bidding as a separate project due to benefitting from economies of scale and already mobilized work forces. A number of the pay items required are pay items in the 2023 resurfacing project, and Geneva Construction has provided reasonable agreed unit prices (AUPs) for the work not in the contract. This work is estimated to cost $60,000.00 which was under the value estimated.
As a separate issue, as work has been completed throughout the first several wards, construction efforts to fully repair deteriorated streets has proved more excessive than anticipated at the time of bidding. In particular, concrete curb and sidewalk replacement quantities have been trending higher than expected. Some additional cost may be required to finish repairing the deteriorated streets in the program to City standards throughout the remaining wards. Staff members are asking for additional moneys to complete the project in case they are required. This work is estimated to cost $100,000.00.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing the director of the Purchasing Department to enter into an agreement to replace the Central Fire Station, bay floor Heaters with Artlip and Sons, Inc in the amount of $79,819.00.
City government of Aurora documents show the existing heaters at Central station are more than 42 years old, they are difficult and costly to repair. Often time parts are on order for months on end placing more demand on the already aging units. Replacement will assist in the City’s effort to be as green as possible.
This request was passed through the decision package process for the 2023 budget. The Purchasing Department staff members went out to bid June 18, 2023 with bids received July 12, 2023. Two bids were received. This project had a mandatory site visit to ensure all bidders had the same viewing and understood the requirements.
Replacement of the existing Panel block heaters will ultimately be a benefit in more efficient heating of the bay floor, and saving the City of Aurora, IL costly repairs to 42-year-old units.
Due to the Local Preference Ordinance, Artlip and Sons, Inc. in Aurora, Ill., was within 5% of the lowest, responsible bidder and has accepted to perform the work at the lowest bid received.
- Approved was a Resolution to purchase 10 self contained breathing apparatus from Municipal Emergency Services for $100,080.00.
City government of Aurora documents show the Aurora Fire Department (AFD) will be putting three units in service over the few years. With this service comes the need for equipment like the SCBAs for members at fires and any other life hazardous atmospheres. City officials are looking to acquire 10 full setups including equipment that will help members save each other in case of an internal emergency or (RIT)
The AFD last expanded in 2018 putting Medic 7 in service on the south west side. The expansion to the north will bring fire protection to an area of the City that has long been underserved. The City Council has approved the hiring, building of the new stations, the apparatus as well as this necessary firefighting equipment.
The AFD last purchased large quantity of SCOTT SCBA through a grant in 2020 saving the City of Aurora over $800,000 in 2022. For interoperability the AFD will continue to use SCOTT brand purchasing through Municipal Emergency Services who is a regional sole source provider.
This quote incorporates all needed Scott equipment for the apparatus to be housed at Fire Station 13. Including The SCBAs, 4 strap harnesses, Cylinders (large and small), RIT pack, and pack tracker with charger. The Rapid Intervention Team or pack is a tool that ladder trucks carry to facilitate rescues of Firefighters that have become lost or (RIT-PAK) trapped due to changing building conditions or rapidly changing fire conditions.
Municipal Emergency Services is the regional sole source provider for the 3M SCOTT brand SCBA. For departmental interoperability this is the only brand the AFD can use. Funding was made available in Resolution 22-327 and 22-316.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing the director of the Purchasing Department to enter into a professional services agreement with Olea Networks, Inc. DBA Olea Edge Analytics, Bee Cave, TX for large water meter sensor and analytical services in the amount of $285,300.
City government of Aurora documents show large meter testing programs are an important tool to combat water loss and maintain revenue. The City’s largest water meters, 98 4-inch and 11 6-inch meters, constitute only 0.2% of all the City’s water meters but see 3.8% of total end-user flow. The City has not previously conducted a targeted meter testing program on the large meters. Preliminary analysis through Sensus Analytics, a meter health diagnosis tool provided by the meter manufacturer, estimates that issues with the City’s largest meters result in $257,275 in lost annual revenue.
The City advertised a QBS on March 16, 2023 with submissions due on April 7, 2023. Due to the specialized nature of the request, only two firms responded. A team of three individuals reviewed the submittals and selected Olea Edge Analytics (Olea) as the highest-ranking firm. Staff members then engaged with Olea over the next several months to finalize the scope to achieve the most cost-effective solution across the one-year program. Based on the success of the program, the City will have the option to continue the use of the meters in future years and also determine if monitoring smaller meters would further reduce the City’s water losses and recapture additional revenue.
Though the City’s largest meters represent only a small amount of the total meter population, they measure an outsized proportion of total end-user flow. Olea’s sensors are installed directly on the large meters, providing detailed analysis on the health and flow profiles of each meter. This enables City staff members to determine whether the meter needs to be right-sized (matching the flow profile of the meter size to the flow profile of the end user), repaired, or replaced. City staff members aim to use these devices to correct all issues with the largest meters, therefore establishing a baseline for which staff members can then enact annual flow-testing programs to maintain meter accuracy.
This project will be funded by account 510-4058-511-32.23 (IB058) which has sufficient funds to cover the project. Two proposals for these services that were received, and Olea Edge Analytics was the highest ranked vendor. The cost of the program is $185,300 with an additional $100,000 earmarked for contingent external meter repair services. Local preference does not apply to qualified based selections.
The sensors can be installed with no service interruption to the customer’s service; minor disruption is to be expected in the event that the sensors identify a meter that needs to be replaced or serviced. Water and Sewer Meter Shop staff members, in addition, receive meter training from Olea Edge.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing a contract with Performance Construction & Engineering, LLC, 217 W. John Street, Plano, Ill., in the amount of $858,878.00 for the East Park Avenue and South Avenue Sewer Separation and Water Main Replacement project in Wards 3 and 4.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to install new storm sewer removing stormwater from the combined sewer system at several locations near East Park Avenue and South Avenue. Water main replacement has been deemed necessary on East park Avenue between Center Avenue and South Avenue to improve water quality and system capacity. The existing 4” water main will be replaced with 8” ductile iron water main and confirmed lead water services will be replaced.
A new storm sewer will be installed to remove these surface drainage flows from the combined sewer system. This project will help satisfy the requirements associated with the City’s Long Term Control Plan and the City’s Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Combined Sewer System Overflow. Lead water services within the project corridor will be replaced with the approval of each homeowner.
The proposed improvements have been publicly advertised and bid in conformance with City procedures. Four conforming bids were received, publicly opened and read aloud on August 10, 2023. The low bidder, Performance Construction and Engineering, LLC, has successfully completed similar projects for the City in the past.
This contract is subject to the local vendor preference ordinance. However, none of the contractors submitting bids were eligible according to the requirements listed in the ordinance.
A portion of the project amount ($458,878.00) is budgeted for in 2023 within account 510-4058-511-73-02 (IC076, $11,950,000.00 Water Main Replacement). A remainder of the project amount ($400,000.00) is budgeted for in 2023 within account 281-1856-512-73-09 (B031, $2,550,000.00 LTCP sewer separation).
Traffic will be detoured to adjacent blocks, but the increase in traffic on the adjacent neighboring blocks will be temporary and negligible. Water and sanitary service interruptions will be kept to a minimum during construction of this project.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing the director of the Purchasing Department to accept per ton dump fees from Rochelle Landfill for the disposal of non-special and special excavated spoils.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose for this resolution is to provide a means for the City’s Water and Sewer Maintenance Division to dispose of spoils that cannot be disposed of as CCDD material.
35 ILL. Adm. Code 1100 requires testing of soils excavated from sites with a history of activity that may have resulted in soil contamination. This code also requires that spoils excavated from residential sites be tested for pH. Soils that do not meet the requirements for disposal at a CCDD landfill must be disposed of at a facility permitted to accept such contaminated material
On July 16, 2023, the City’s Purchasing Division advertised a request for proposals for the disposal of non-CCDD material. On August 2, 2023 the Purchasing Division opened two bids. One from Waste Management of Illinois and another from Rochelle Landfill.
The quote submitted by Rochelle Landfill, shows the bid price per ton disposal fee for the next 4 months is $17.00 per ton with an increase to $18.00 per ton after December 31, 2023 which is valid until December 31, 2024.
Funding for this expense is provided in the 2023 budget in account 510-4063-511.36-13 within the Water and Sewer Fund that includes $210,000 budgeted. Based on historic activity it is estimated that approximately 5000 tons of non-CCDD spoils will be generated over the next 12 months.
This resolution is needed in order to provide a means for disposing excavated soils that are generated on a daily basis by the City’s Water and Sewer Maintenance Division.
- Approved was an Ordinance amending “Chapter 25, Article XI, Sec. 25-266” of the Code of Ordinances.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to update the requirements for tattoo and body art establishments.
The City Council recently approved changes to Chapter 25, Article XI “Tattoo and Body Art Establishments”. As part of the approval process, the Rules, Administration and Procedures (RAP) Committee requested that staff members add distance requirements. The proposal represents staff’member recommendations to fulfill the Committee’s request.
The proposed recommendation is to impose a 1/2-mile buffer between any new tattoo establishments. This distance requirement is consistent with others in the city code, including alternative financial institutions, tobacco/alternative nicotine and cannabis dispensaries. Staff members are not recommending a variance process for tattoo and body art establishments.
The four existing establishments will be allowed to remain as long as they are in good standing with the city, including if a sale/license transfer occurs. The current licensees have all been notified of this proposal.
- Approved was an Ordinance Establishing a Conditional Use Planned Development, Approving the 110 Cross Street Plan Description and amending Chapter 49 of the Code of Ordinances, City of Aurora, by modifying the zoning map thereto to an underlying zoning of DF Downtown Fringe District for the property at 110 Cross Street and 213 S. River Street.
- Approved was a Resolution approving a final plan for property at 110 Cross Street for a Restaurant/Food and Beverage Services (2500) Use and Multi-Family Dwelling (1140) Use.
City government of Aurora documents show the Petitioner JH Real Estate Partners, LLC is requesting approval of a Final Plan for 110 Cross Street for a Restaurant/Food and Beverage Services (2500) Use and Multi-Family Dwelling (1140) Use which includes adaptively reusing the historic building for a brewery on the first floor with residential apartments above.
The Property is vacant with M-1 Manufacturing – Limited zoning. The Petitioner is requesting approval of a Final Plan for 110 Cross Street for a Restaurant/Food and Beverage Services (2500) Use and Multi-Family Dwelling (1140) Use. The details of the request include a Final Plan for an approximate 46-seat brewery with 56 seats in an outdoor patio and 15 apartments above. The site will be improved with a fenced outdoor patio area on the east elevation, a new exterior staircase on the east elevation, new seeded area all along Cross Street, and a ramp in the rear for accessibility. The site will be accessed from a curb cut on Cross Street and River Street and will include a new parking lot with 13 spaces. The second building on the site, 213 S. River Street, will remain in its current use and configuration.
The building is a contributing resource to the Middle Avenue National Register Historic District. As the developer is pursuing Historic Preservation Tax Credits, the main façade had to remain mostly unchanged and the changes to the elevations still had to retain the historic character of the industrial building.
Concurrently with this proposal, the Petitioner is requesting the Establishment of a Conditional Use Planned Development, and to change the underlying zoning district from M-1 Manufacturing – Limited District to DF Downtown Fringe. The details of the request include changing the zoning to DF Downtown Fringe, which would allow apartments above the first-story, and a Plan Description to allow the brewery on the first floor of 110 Cross Street and retain the coffee roasting business at 213 S. River Street. The Plan Description also provides other variances to address the unique nature of rehabbing historic buildings, such as parking.
Staff members have reviewed the Final Plan Resolution petition and have sent comments back to the petitioner on those submittals. The petitioner has made the requested revisions to these documents and they now meet the applicable codes and ordinances.
Policies and guidelines:
The staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the following Physical Development Policies:
11.1 (5) To guide and promote development to areas where public utilities, public roads and municipal services are either available or planned.
11.1 (3) To encourage new development contiguous to existing development.
12.0 To plan and provide for the growth of the city through the integration of land use patterns and functions that promotes complementary interactions between different land use components.
14.1 (3) To protect, preserve and restore the historical and architectural heritage of the City.
20.0 To insure the provision of decent housing and a quality living environment for every resident of Aurora
23.1 (7) To encourage that adaptive reuse of commercial and industrial structures to housing where such conversions are economically feasible, supportive of revitalization efforts, and consistent with the land use plan.
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended conditional approval of the Resolution approving a final plan for property at 110 Cross Street for a Restaurant/Food and Beverage Services (2500) Use and Multi-Family Dwelling (1140) Use, with the following condition:
That all Engineering Department staff member comments are addressed prior to building permit issuance.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing the chief Financial officer to enter into an amended contract not to exceed the amount of $6,246,715.00 with Axon Enterprises, Inc for the continued support of body-worn and in-squad cameras, TASERS, and an associated suite of related services provided by Axon Enterprises for the Aurora Police Department.
City government of Aurora documents show the Police Department requests that the Council authorize the Chief Financial Officer to enter into an amended contract with Axon Enterprises for various services and support outlined in the proposed contract. This increase is necessary due to recent staff member additions to the Aurora Police Department, enhancements in certain technologies offered, and the desire to integrate multiple contracts into one singular amended contract with Axon Enterprises.
On October 27th, 2020, resolution R20-0249 was approved by the City Council for the purchase of body-worn cameras and the supporting software for officers at the Aurora Police Department.
Resolution R21-158, passed by City Council on June 22, 2021, approved the purchase of an additional thirty-five (35) Body-Worn cameras to comply with Illinois Public Act 101-0652 (“Safe-T Act”).
On July 13, 2021, Resolution R21-177 authorized the purchase and installation of a fleet dash camera system and TASER7 equipment.
Resolution R22-393 was passed on December 20, 2022, for the purchase of a community survey system (My90)
Resolution R23-139 requesting an additional eighteen (18) Body-Worn cameras for assignment to newly hired police officers was approved by City Council on May 9, 2023.
At present, the Aurora Police Department is under 3 related but separate contracts with Axon Enterprises for cameras, TASERs, My90, and related software and systems. Officials have the opportunity to combine these contracts as part of an overall cost-saving measure which will also include the replacement of TASER 7 with the enhanced technology of TASER 10, a built-in hardware refresh of the body-worn and in-squad cameras during the proposed contract period, and a discounted “bundled” rate which will provide an overall cost savings to the City over the course of the 5-year contract.
Axon Enterprises, Inc. released TASER 10 in 2023, representing a significant advancement in TASER technology. The Aurora Police Department demoed the new TASER 10 and entered into negotiations with Axon for the purpose of upgrading the existing inventory of TASER 7s to TASER 10s. During these negotiations, it became apparent that bundling the new TASER 10s with body-worn cameras, in-squad camera systems, My90, and related user licenses, software, and systems in a new contract would provide a significant cost savings over the next five years. The new contract would consolidate the 3 current contracts between the city of Aurora and Axon into one contract. All previously purchased hardware and software remain in the new contract, although several software items previously purchased a la carte were now included in Axon’s Officer Safety 10+ plan, which the department would be receiving in the new contract. Additionally, under a new contract, the police department would receive a hardware refresh and upgrades for its body-worn cameras in 2024, an additional mid-contract refresh for body-worn cameras and in-squad cameras, an upgrade from TASER 7s to TASER 10s, an increase in TASER inventory from 150 to 175, a slight increase in body-worn camera inventory, and additional software features such as third-party video playback and licenses for Axon Records and Standards. Finally, the new contract would align future contract renewals with Axon’s historical release timeline for new TASER technology, ensuring that the Aurora Police Department remains at the technological forefront of less-lethal use of force options.
A new contract will also lock in prices through 2028, whereas the current contract expires in 2026. The gross price of the new contract totals $7,078,150.27. After discounts and credits, the final contract price is $6,246,715.00. Annual prices are listed below:
2023: $920,673.00
2024: $1,331,510.50
2025: $1,331,510.50
2026: $1,331,510.50
2027: $1,331,510.50
The 2023 price is reduced as some payments have already been made for the year and to fit within the 2023 budget.
It is anticipated that American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal funding will allow for this Public Safety Expense in account 287-3536-421.74-99 (BWC) for 2023. Future years will be budgeted in the general fund 101-3536-421.74-99 (BWC).
Approval of this resolution will ensure continued compliance with the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act and all of the requirements set forth in the law. Approval of this resolution will allow the Aurora Police Department to continue leadership in the region in transparency, less lethal force options, and community engagement, while remaining a responsible steward of taxpayer funds. Additionally, it will provide greater transparency and accountability, further strengthening public trust in the Police Department.
- Approved was a Resolution increasing the authorized amount due to the Illinois Department of Transportation for the City’s share of the IL Route 34 Grade Crossing Structure over the CN RR project to $320,509.59.
City government of Aurora documents show the City executed an IGA with the State of Illinois for the construction of a grade separation structure at the Route 34 crossing of the Canadian National RR tracks, just west of the intersection of Frontenac Road and US Route 34. The IGA laid out the cost share of the project, with an anticipated City share of $208,350. Based on changes to the project and final as-measured installed quantities, the final City share of the improvements is $320,509.59. Council action is required to increase the allotted funds prior to submitting payment to IDOT.
This project was constructed in 2015/2016 and consisted of replacing the at-grade crossing with a new grade separated structure. The costs were split amongst various parties, with the City paying for certain items including a share of the overall construction, along with various utility relocations – most notably sections of a 16” water main on IDOT property. As with any such agreement, the final payment is based on the actual work completed, which in many cases differs from what was contained in the preliminary bid documents. This generally occurs when there are scope changes that aren’t known until construction commences.
The City previously paid an invoice to IDOT in the amount of $122,804.10 and received the second and final invoice in the amount of $197,705.49. In 2016 the City accrued $30,700 to process the anticipated final payment. The additional funds in the amount of $167,005.49 are available in account 340-4060-431.73-80 and will be transferred into the correct account 340-4060-431.79-60 (GB112) prior to making the payment.
- Approved was three Ordinances approving the City of Aurora River Vine Tax Increment Financing District Redevelopment Project Area Redevelopment Plan and Project.
City government of Aurora documents show the River Vine Tax Increment Financing District (“TIF District”) is being created to support the Windfall development at 309 N River Street. Staff members have been working with consultants, Ryan, LLC (formerly known as Kane, McKenna and Associates), and Elrod Frieman LLP to assist with the creation of the TIF District. The Ordinances create the TIF District that will support the Windfall residential apartment development, as approved by the City Council in a previously approved Redevelopment Agreement in 2022.
The parcels are within the City’s downtown fringe area, generally bordered on the south by Cedar Street (as extended east to the Fox River), on the east by the shores along the Fox River, on the north by a certain park land owned by the Fox Valley Park District, and on the west by River Street. At this time, parts of the proposed TIF District is within the City’s existing TIF # 5. The area location along the Fox River has been identified by the Downtown Master Plan as a focal point part of the “heart of Downtown” and is part of an area desired as a “vibrant designation with mixed use development, family friendly activities and nightlife entertainment”.
Constructing a new multi-family residential development on the banks of the Fox River in Downtown Aurora, particularly near the Aurora Transportation Center, has been a consistent recommendation of numerous City long-range planning documents for decades. Combined with the recommendations of the Downtown Housing Study (2019), the growing demand for rental housing, the redevelopment of long vacant historic buildings in the Downtown, and the recent completion of the new Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge, the time for implementing the City’s vision is here.
Attached to the Ordinance is the TIF District Redevelopment Plan prepared by Kane, McKenna and Associates that guides improvements, activities and projects within the TIF District in order to stimulate private investment, along with a map and legal description of the TIF District. Designating a TIF District will allow the City to collect and use incremental property taxes in support of redevelopment efforts over a period of up to 20 years.
Staff members anticipate that the TIF District, and the associated redevelopment activities therein, will increase the City’s overall tax base, by facilitating investment and development, which will offset any incidental department or staffing impacts.
- Approved was three Ordinances designating, approving, and adopting tax increment financing for the City of Aurora Cross Street Tax Increment Financing District Redevelopment Project Area.
City government of Aurora documents show the Cross Street Tax Increment Financing District (“TIF District”) is being created to support the JH Real Estate Development at 110 Cross Street. Staff members have been working with consultants, Ryan LLC, and Klein, Thorpe and Jenkins, Ltd (KTJ) to assist with the creation of the referenced TIF District. The Ordinance is the first one of three that will enable the City to create the TIF District that will support the mixed-use development at 110 Cross Street, as approved by the City Council in a previously approved Redevelopment Agreement in March 2023.
The creation of this TIF District is part of an existing RDA approved with resolution R23-076 on March 14, 2023, between the City of Aurora and a private developer for the redevelopment of the long vacant real estate at 110 Cross Street.
110 Cross is a historic building purchased about 4 years ago by JH Real Estate.
Plans to renovate the building have been in the works since then including the recruitment of the well-regarded Foreign Exchange Brewing company.
The creation of the Cross Street TIF District will be accomplished through a multi-step process that also entailed holding of a Public Hearing (August 8, 2023, City Council Meeting), and the adoption of three separate ordinances to create the Cross Street TIF District.
The adoption of this ordinance will allow for the next steps in the creation of the Cross Street TIF District to be completed.
- Approved was a Resolution ratifying the Purchase of Upgraded SCADA System Software for the Water Production Division.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain City Council authorization for the purchase of the updated Intellution / iFix software platform for the Supervisory, Control, and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system from GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. via Gray Matter Systems, Richmond, VA, for the Water Production Division (WPD).
The daily control of the water treatment plant and the associated 20+ remote sites is constantly managed by the WPD via the existing SCADA system. The system software was last updated in 2020. Since that time, the Water Production Division has worked with a third-party integrator to maintain the SCADA system. The current SCADA system no longer be upgraded. This purchase will place the system on a three-year support model to keep the SCADA system current for duration of the support contract.
The SCADA system software used now can no longer be upgraded. Renewing the software to the most recent version ensures proper functioning and the highest level of security for the SCADA system
The quote was received from GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. / Gray Matter Systems, who is the only known supplier of the Intellution/iFix software.
The purchase of the system inlcudes the iFix v2023 software for $5,270.70 and three years of support for $57,347.00 for a total cost of $62,046.20.
A budget transfer has been submitted to account no. 510-4058-511-64-11 for this purchase. By committing to a three-year support upgrade and support agreement, the City is able to receive a discount of $16,756.35.
This ratification was deemed necessary to address immediate concerns in the current SCADA system software. Not upgrading the SCADA system software presents a significant security risk.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing the director of the Purchasing Department to execute a contract with Tatisco, Inc., Yorkville, Ill., in the amount of $219,179.90, for the installation of new River Railing near the west Benton Street Bridge and replacement of deteriorated railing near the Tivoli Plaza.
City government of Aurora documents state a large section of the floodwall along the west branch of the Fox River, just north of Benton Street, does not have a protective railing, which is a potential safety hazard. This was not budgeted in 2023, however, staff members are recommending the use of risk funds to install the railing now rather than budgeting for the improvements in 2024. Additionally, the 2023 budget has $50,000 of replacement railing which will be completed by the same contractor.
Throughout the downtown, a decorative railing has been installed along the floodwall of the Fox River, wherever the wall is adjacent to areas accessible by pedestrians. While the lawn area west of the swimming stones is not specifically an area where pedestrians frequently walk, the space is being utilized more frequently during parades and other downtown activities. Installing the railing here will improve safety for those using this space.
Additionally, the 2023 budget includes $50,000 for the replacement of deteriorated sections of existing railing.
This project was bid publicly, with two bids received, opened and read aloud on August 9, 2023. Staff members recommend the award to the low bidder, Tatisco, Inc. in the amount of $219,179.90. This awarded amount reflects the low bid, modified to reduce the amount of railing to be replaced. The original bid included replacement of 250 feet of railing, however due to budget constraints only 168 feet will be replaced. Of this awarded amount, $48,720 is for replacement which will be funded from account 354-4030-418.38-05, and the remainder of the project cost ($170,459.90) will be paid for with risk funds 601-0000-410.40-77.
Completing this project will improve safety for pedestrians utilizing the lawn area. During construction, it is anticipated that there may be minor disruption to Benton Street traffic when delivering equipment and materials.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing an Agreement with Humana to Administer a Medicare Advantage Plan for Medicare Eligible Retirees for the Period of January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to authorize an agreement with Humana to administer a Medicare Advantage Plan for Medicare eligible retirees.
January 1, 2022 the City of Aurora moved the Post-65 Medicare retirees from the Aetna Medicare Advantage plan over to Humana’s Medicare Advantage Plan. Under the Humana Medicare Advantage Plan the city saved 43.3%, or approximately $835,730. The below is the rate history since 2019:
2020: $343.35 Per Retiree Per Month
2021: $314.84 Per Retiree Per Month
2022: $178.55 Per Retiree Per Month
2023: $199.98 Per Retiree Per Month
Humana offered the city a two-year contract with the 2024 rate guarantee at $214.86 which is a 7.4% increase rate.
Humana Plan Highlights:
Silver Sneakers – Fitness Program included (Enhancement over Aetna)
Home Delivery Meal Program – 14 days after in-patient stay
Go 365 Wellness Program included
Post-Discharge Personal Home Care
The city recommends accepting the Humana renewal for the Post-65 retiree health plan on January 1, 2024; the 2024 rate is 37.5% below the 2021 rates for Post-65 retirees.
- Approved was a Resolution establishing Blue Cross Blue Shield Advantage HMO (BCBS) for Group Health Care Services for the period of January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to establish the 2024 rates for BCBS Blue Advantage HMO medical insurance.
The City of Aurora government provides a fully insured HMO for active employees through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois.
The HMO offerings have remained stable since January 1, 2016. However, the city’s plan on a Per Employee Per Year cost is significantly higher than the Mercer Government Benchmark.
Year HMO Mercer*
2020 18,312 15,862
2021 18,655 16,258
2022 17,691 16,665
2023 18,930 16,258
2024 19,551 16,664
*Mercer’s 2023 and 2024 costs are projections assuming a 2.5% increase on HMO.
The city evaluated Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, in the Spring and Summer of 2022 for the 2023 plan year. The Human Resources team requested early renewals from BCBSIL which they provided. Medical inflation is rising due to medical providers wage increases and specialty medications utilization growth. The HR team was successful in reducing the original renewal offers from BCBSIL as outlined below:
BCBSIL initial HMO renewal increase was 12%.
Final Renewal is a 6% rate increase.
The City recommends renewing the HMO with BCBSIL.
- Approved was a Resolution establishing OAP and Value HSA(HDHP) Health Insurance Plans and Rates Effective January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to affirm the 2024 OAP and Value HSA(HDHP) schedule of benefits and establish the 2024 insurance premium rates of the City’s OAP and Value HSA(HDHP) medical insurance.
There are two self-funded plans for active employees through CIGNA. CIGNA’s offerings include a Traditional Plan and a High Deductible Health Plan.
The 2023 OAP premium rates were increased 2.5% from the previous year.
The OAP, and HDHP offerings have remained stable since January 1, 2016. However, the city’s plan on a Per Employee Per Year cost is significantly higher than the Mercer Government Benchmark.
Year CIGNA Mercer*
2020 20,544 14,000
2021 22,452 14,665
2022 22,500 15,244
2023 23,287 15,625
2024 24,796 16,015
*Mercer’s 2023 and 2024 costs are projections assuming a 2.5% on PPO.
The city evaluated CIGNA in the Spring and Summer of 2022 for the 2023 plan year. The Human Resources team requested early renewals from CIGNA which they provided. Medical inflation is rising due to medical providers wage increases and specialty medications utilization growth. The renewal rate is a 4% rate increase for the OAP and Value HSA (HDHP).
- Approved was a Resolution establishing health and dental insurance monthly rates of contributions for pre-Medicare retirees effective January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to establish the 2024 health and dental insurance monthly rates for Pre-Medicare retirees.
The pre-Medicare retirees through CIGNA is a self-funded plan. January 1, 2018, the City carved out the Post-65 Medicare retirees to a Medicare Advantage Program and set separate funding rates for the active employees and the Pre-Medicare retirees to cover their necessary liabilities under the CIGNA plan.
The OAP offerings have remained stable since January 1, 2016. However, the city’s plan on a Retiree Per Year cost is significantly higher than the Mercer Government Benchmark.
Year CIGNA Mercer*
2020 20,544 14,000
2021 22,452 14,665
2022 22,500 15,244
2023 23,287 15,625
2024 24,796 16,015
*Mercer’s 2023 and 2024 costs are projections assuming a 2.5% increase on PPO.
The city evaluated CIGNA in the Spring and Summer of 2022 for the 2023 plan year. The Human Resources team requested early renewals from CIGNA which they provided. Medical inflation is rising due to medical providers wage increases and specialty medications utilization growth. Renewal is a 4% increase for the Pre-Medicare retirees.
Retiree dental premiums and active employee dental rates are the same and there is no increase for 2024.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing an agreement for administrative services with Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company (Cigna) for PPO and Value HSA(HDHP) Group Health, Prescription Benefits Management (PBM), Flexible Spending, Dental, Vision, C.O.B.R.A. and Stop Loss Plan Administration for period January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to authorize an agreement for third-party administrative services (TPA) with Cigna for the City’s PPO and Value HSA(HDHP) health insurance plan, dental insurance, vision coverage, prescription benefits management (PBM), flexible spending, C.O.B.R.A. and stop loss insurance coverage.
Cigna has been the City’s third-party administrator for the City’s PPO, Value HSA(HDHP), dental, vision, PBM, flexible spending, One Guide, C.O.B.R.A. and stop loss coverage for participating employees, retirees, and their dependents since January 2016. The PEPM (per employee per month) fee for 2023 was $42.38.
CIGNA’s administration fee for Medical/Dental/Vision is increasing 3%. Claims year to date through June have been running at projections for the pre-65 Retirees, the Active OAP, and Value HSA. Claims utilization typically increase the 2nd half of the plan year below medical inflation of 7.5%. The Human Resources team was successful in negotiating the following additionally renewal concessions from CIGNA:
Individual Stop Loss insurance renewal is increasing 13.8% reduce from an initial 19% increase resulting in $80,000 reduction.
Rx Net Cost (with Rebates) are improving approximately $293,000
Wellness Fund is remaining at $40,000
Human Resources is seeking approval to enter into a one year agreement with Cigna.
- Approved was a Resolution establishing C.O.B.R.A. insurance monthly rates effective January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to establish the 2024 C.O.B.R.A. rates for the City of Aurora’s OAP Access and Value HSA(HDHP) comprehensive medical plans, Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Advantage HMO and dental plan. The City is obligated by law to offer C.O.B.R.A. to employees and their covered dependents when they separate from employment for up to eighteen (18) months at 102% for the current premium rate.
Each year the C.O.B.R.A. rates are adjusted to reflect an additional 2% administrative fee to the current health and dental premiums.
- Approved was a Resolution authorizing Sun Life Insurance to provide life insurance services for January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025.
City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain authorization to continue an agreement between Sun Life Insurance and the City of Aurora.
This is a three year agreement and will save the City $60,000 having moved from the former vendor. Sun Life has also provided $64,000 in additional benefit administration credits. Sun Life provides additional plans for accident and critical illness that employees can purchase for additional coverage. The 2023 Basic/AD&D life rate is .076/.02
There is no increase in the rate for the Basic /AD&D life. The rate is guaranteed for the next two years.
Information is available about a Charitable Solicitation Application for the Knights of Columbus Council 736 Tootsie Roll Drive on September 15 thru September 17, 2023.
Information is available about a Charitable Solicitation Application for the Scouts BSA Troop 81 Annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser to be held at Metea Valley High School on October 28, 2023.
Information is available about a Charitable Solicitation Application for the St. Joseph Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive on September 1 thru September 23, 2023.
Information is available about a Charitable Solicitation Application for Girl Scouts of Northern IL Fall Product Program selling nuts, candies and magazines on September 21 thru October 22, 2023.