Central Bark coming to Aurora; hope for vacant hotel building

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By Jason Crane

The Aurora City Council approved a Resolution and Ordinance authorizing a revision to the Final Plan for the property at 4389 Fox Valley Center Drive for a kennel with outdoor pens and runs at the Tuesday, Sept. 24 City Council meeting.

City government of Aurora documents show the Property is the former National Tire and Battery store which is now vacant. This property is zoned PDD Planned Development District, which is part of the Fox Valley East Planned Development District.

Central Bark is a modern dog care facility which provides socialization, stimulation, safety, training, grooming, along with daily exercise for dogs. The facility has the capacity to care for up to 100 dogs per day with the ability to board 29 dogs overnight and will have approximately 30 employees. There will be a retail component within the reception area, a grooming area, a spacious nap room and a large indoor play area.

The site layout will mainly stay the same with the exception that the Petitioner is proposing to remove 5 parking spaces on the east side of the property to allow for the construction of an outdoor run and play area which will be enclosed by an 8’ white vinyl fence. A trash enclosure will be constructed on the west side of the building along with a private play area for those dogs that are not ready for group time activities. This area will be enclosed by a 6’ white vinyl fence.

•The meeting with presentations and input from several individuals for various reasons can be viewed on the city government of Aurora’s YouTube page after the 5-minute mark by clicking here.

The City Council approved the following agenda items:

A Resolution was approved authorizing the First Amendment to the SunCode leases at the Aurora Municipal Airport.

City government of Aurora documents show SunCode is process of obtaining the final approvals from other government entities in order to start construction of their solar farm at the airport. After installation and final approvals, if any of those government entities were to require modifications, alterations, or amendments to the solar farm those changes would be solely the tenant’s responsibility.)

Earlier this year, the City and SunCode entered into leases for the construction of a solar farm at the Airport. In the permitting and approval process the parties wished to elaborate on their individual future requirements if any changes were required.

This is for the protection of the City and to clarify the parties’ duties and responsibilities under the leases.

This amendment is needed to ensure that if any future modifications or changes are required to the solar farm it will be the tenant’s sole responsibility.

A Resolution was approved authorizing a redevelopment agreement between the City of Aurora and The Barrera Organization LLC for the Renovation of the property known as the Galena Hotel at 116 W. Galena Boulevard.

City government of Aurora documents show the plan is for adaptive reuse of the vacant and long dilapidated property for twenty-one “micro apartments” with an affordable pricing structure renamed Lincoln House.

Known originally as Fox River House, the Galena Hotel was rebuilt in 1860, after a fire destroyed the original building. It was owned and operated by Edward Huntoon, cousin to one of the original settlers of Aurora in the early 19th century. It served as a popular location for parties, balls, weddings and community events with residents coming there after attending social events at the popular Dunning block by River Street. The Galena Hotel is notable for its original architecture, and is one of the few buildings still standing that was built prior to the Civil War. It was continuously used until its closure few years ago. The building is listed on the National Register for Historic Places.

After the building was shuttered for continued unaddressed and dangerous code violations, it was purchased by Fernando Barrera, an Aurora native with an accounting and finance degree from Benedictine University and more than ten years’ experience in the real estate industry. After working in public accounting, he started his own real estate business and has amassed a portfolio of 150 residential units. He is known for his work with first time home buyers and investors and promoting community and economic growth in the historic neighborhood of his youth. For this project, he has assembled an experienced team of design, construction, and historic building compliance professionals.

There are challenges and opportunities inherent in the redevelopment of the Galena Hotel. The building is only about 9,300 square feet with 6,663 rentable based on the layout. Because historic regulations severely limit the altering of the original layout, approximately a third of the building will be non-income producing as common area. The result is that renovation costs including provisions for accessibility compliance are extremely high as measured on a per unit or on a per square foot basis. Similar to other downtown buildings that sat vacant for decades because there was no economic rationale for repositioning them, the Galena Hotel, without financial assistance from the City, has no means to become a vibrant revenue producing asset that will attract many new residents downtown.

Fortunately, the Federal and Illinois state tax codes encourage preservation through the sale of tax credits providing as much as a 45% effective offset of project costs. This translates into a reduction in the impact of the total Galena Hotel renovation costs from approximately $6,650,000 (a hard to fathom $1000 per square foot, due to amortizing these high costs over such a small amount of space) to closer to $4,450,000, which is still approximately $500 per square foot. With Fernando having purchased and carrying the building for $200,000, obtaining a loan for approximately $2,000,000 and contributing another $500,000 in equity or a total of $3,159,450 in risk capital, the gap is $1,300,000. This equates to approximately $62,000 per unit, which is in line with both the trends of prior City incentives (inflation adjusted) and the current DAC request. Even after accounting for both the City contribution and the impact of the historic tax credits, Fernando’s anticipated returns on a cash-on-cash basis are modest. Also imputed in the projections is utilizing the preexisting TIF #13 that was created for the Hobbs development with the inclusion of the Galena Hotel.

At this time, taxes on the property are $4,800. If the property remains in its poor and vacant condition, these taxes will likely stay the same or decrease. The RDA calls for these taxes to remain flat for the five years it is anticipated to complete construction and get the project stabilized. After that, a minimum threshold is established where all taxing bodies will receive 20% of the increment above $4,800 and the developer will be eligible to receive an 80% incremental tax reimbursement. If after five years, revenues increase to a point where the developer can earn 8% on its invested capital (net income after debt service of $52,000) then the split would reduce to 70% (developer) and 30% (taxing bodies). At a 10% return, (at $65,000), the split will be 60% (developer) and 40% taxing bodies. Should the developer be able to earn a 12% return ($78,000), there will be a final adjustment where all incremental tax revenues are divided equally for the remainder of the TIF life. The total incentive to the developer as defined in the RDA will be these TIF benefits and the aforementioned $1,300,000 forgivable loan that will be forgiven when the project is completed.

The building design is based on a strong need, as demonstrated most recently by the affordable housing study presented to the City Council September 3rd that showed a very strong demand for housing in the City, notably at rents that are in line with standard norms as measured by housing expenses as a percentage of gross income. The units at Lincoln House, while not categorized as affordable as measured by direct government operating assistance, (in other words Lincoln House is market housing), will serve an untapped need by serving residents wanting a place to live downtown and are willing to consider smaller units (think a little larger than a standard hotel room) at rents that are affordable as compared to gross month rents in the downtown often at least $300 higher per month. The average rents in the first couple of years are projected at about $1,050 per unit. Ironically this is higher than even the DAC development on a per square foot basis- but is affordable based on the total monthly tenant outflow.

A micro unit, typically 350 square feet or less is a refined version of a studio apartment with an open floor plan, minimalist design such as neutral colors, sleek lines and compact furnishings such as a Murphy Wall bed that allows for a seamless transition from living room to bedroom. They typically rent for approximately 30% less than studio apartments within the same market. (Apartment Living) and attract predominantly young professional singles looking to supplement their smaller living space with nearby services and activities, restaurants, with access to public transportation.

The RDA is conditioned on Fernando obtaining a Conditional Use Planned Development to allow for residential on the first floor to allow and the smaller than permissible square apartment footage. In addition, Fernando will need approval from the FoxWalk Design Review Committee. Fernado and his professionals have already had a DST meeting with staff members. This request from Council does not include the approval of these zoning changes as they will come back through the Economic Development Committee and back to Council.

Having an additional 21 apartments rented in the downtown, in a market where there is little vacancy, will serve a need and help continue a cycle where more residents induce more retail sales and a wider offering of services that in turn will attract new residents to the downtown.

A Resolution was approved authorizing the acquisition and acceptance of a land donation to the city of Aurora known as Parcel 15-15-176-073. The land is near the Fox River south of the McDonald’s on North Lake Street.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to accept a donation of approximately 0.54 acres of land from Mr. David Kline to the City pursuant to the terms and conditions in the Donation Agreement.

The property includes a road named Lyon Place that is currently shown on the City’s GIS as right-of-way. The property is zoned M-1. The parcel could be an important strategic property that could benefit the City economically in the future if developed. Currently, the property, and its adjacent properties are underutilized and if combined, could create a key redevelopment site. The City’s Comprehensive Plan has long shown the area as a future multi-family residential development.

The acceptance of the donated property has many benefits including decreasing the possibility of the property becoming a nuisance, by helping to support desirable residential development along the Fox River as recommended in the City’s Comprehensive Plan, as well as potentially creating desired road connections to parcels north and south with access to the existing signalized intersection on Lake Street. Overall, accepting property donations allows the City to leverage resources effectively, enhance community benefits, and align development with long-term strategic goals.

The acquisition of land will provide the City additional flexibility in the long-term planning of that area for desirable residential development along the Fox River.

A Resolution was approved authorizing the Summer 2024 Historic Preservation Grants and allowing the mayor to enter into Historic Preservation Grant agreements and addendums.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to authorize Historic Preservation Grant agreements with owners of properties within the historic districts or local landmarks to foster the continued preservation of Aurora’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks.

In 2019, City Council approved a new Historic Preservation Grant Program. The Preservation Grant Program is a reimbursable grant for exterior historic rehabilitation projects. The maximum is $20,000. All grants at or under $10,000 require no cash match. All grants over $10,000 require a dollar-for-dollar cash match for every dollar over $10,000. The final $1,000 of the grant is additional funding for the use of local contractors. Properties must be owner-occupied and designated as historic within the City of Aurora and must meet all other eligibility requirements.

The first 2024 round of Historic Preservation did not allocate all the funding budgeted for 2024. Also, with some previous grants not being completed or completed under budget, the remaining balance in account 101-1840-463.50-43 is $183,000.

Staff members received 21 applications representing all four local districts, the National Register district, and local landmarks. The work is all exterior ranging from tuckpointing, window repair, chimney restoration, siding repair and painting to structural stabilization and porch restorations.

On August 22, 2024, the Historic Preservation Grant Committee reviewed the 21 applications submitted for the Summer 2024 Historic Preservation Grant Program. Based upon the available funding, the Historic Preservation Committee ranked 14 applications as top priority for approval by City Council. The remaining applications contained many worthwhile projects, and the Committee recommended they apply again for the next round.

As outlined in Proposed Summer 2024 Historic Preservation Grants Recommendations, the following are recommended for approval:

1.) 18 S. Root Street – near eastside – chimney restoration – $7,205

2.) 219 West Park – Tanner – masonry porch restoration – $10,813

3.) 238 Lawndale Avenue – Riddle Highlands – window restoration – $18,733

4.) 361 Lawndale Avenue – Riddle Highlands – tuckpointing – $13,029

5.) 404 S. Edgelawn – landmark – skylight restoration – $10,000

6.) 418 Palace Street – Tanner – porch restoration – $16,423

7.) 464 Palace Street – Tanner – wood storm windows – $11,176

8.) 506 Oak Avenue – Tanner – window and door restoration – $16,973

9.) 515 Oak Avenue – Tanner – chimney restoration – $2,280

10.) 535 W. Downer Place – local landmark – siding repair and painting – $15,350

11.) 547 5th Street – will become a local landmark – foundation stabilization to historic garage – $21,000

12.) 625 Oak Avenue – Tanner – door restoration and custom wood screen doors – $8,250

13.) 742 Oak Avenue – Riddle Highlands – porch restoration – $10,669

14.) 2888 N. Eola Road – Local Landmark – tuckpointing and chimney restoration – $21,000

Policies and guidelines:

The staff members’ evaluation and recommendation are based on the city of Aurora Historic Districts and Landmarks Guideline.

A Resolution was approved authorizing the City to accept a grant award of $51,000 under a grant agreement between the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the City of Aurora.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain City Council approval for acceptance of grant funding via the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission COPPGP grant program, agreement No. NZBCP240021, for the Fire Department.

Under the Nicholas and Zachary Burt Memorial Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act, (NZB Act), the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) accepted applications for its Fiscal Year 2023 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Grant Program (COPPGP). This program aims to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning of children and the elderly in dwelling units and other facilities by providing funding to state, local, and tribal governments that support the installation of CO alarms and training and public education programs to promote the health and public safety of citizens throughout the United States.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Aurora, Ill. (PCMPA) aims to provide high-quality, installed carbon monoxide detectors to members of vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and low-income households, while also educating the community about carbon monoxide, its danger, and ways to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

This grant will provide $51,000 under the agreement for allowable project costs between June 28, 2024 and June 27, 2026. The grant funding is for 75% of the estimated project cost with a required minimum 25% matched by the City. The City has budgeted $19,877.00 for this project equaling a 28% match.

A budget amendment will be completed as the grant funding is unbudgeted. The grant funding will be placed in revenue account 101-3034-337.30-40. Project expenses will be using accounts 101-3034-422.50-66, 101-3033-422.10-02, 101-3034-422.10-01, and 101-3034-422.10-02

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Aurora will be the first program of its kind in the city of Aurora. As such, many project activities included in the project involve creating and implementing processes and procedures and training staff members on those processes and procedures. These activities will be overseen by Fire Marshal, Christopher Temes who will collaborate with multiple internal departments to implement this project, including the Fire Department, Customer Service, Property Standards, Senior and Disability Services, IT, Communications & Marketing, and Human Resources. Mr. Temes will work with Fire Department leadership to incorporate installing and tracking the installation of carbon monoxide detectors into routine department procedures implemented during all residential calls.

Following the City’s purchasing process, Mr. Temes will purchase carbon monoxide detectors in bulk to be installed through this program, assuring that the detectors are code compliant and grant purchasing requirements are followed. In addition to the detectors installed by the Fire Department in the context of service calls, this project will utilize City staff members to install CO detectors in the homes of seniors and low-income and disabled residents. Training activities planned in this project refer to training of City staff members on how the PCMPA program works and the internal processes involved in program administration. No carbon monoxide poisoning prevention training activities are included in this project.

The anticipated benefit of this CO detector installation program is a reduction in carbon monoxide poisoning incidents throughout the city, particularly in the targeted neighborhoods, as well as education on CO safety and precautions.

A Resolution was approved authorizing acceptance of a $20,000 Advancing Economic Mobility Rapid Grant award from the National League of Cities.

City government of Aurora documents show with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, NLCl’s Advancing Economic Mobility Grant program provides cities with coaching and grant funding to help them test innovative ideas that will boost the economic mobility of residents.

Advancing the upward economic mobility of city residents directly impacts the financial health and long-term viability of municipalities. Research indicates that economically secure families with as little as $250 in savings are better able to weather the ebbs and flows of income drops and unexpected expenses. They are also less likely to rely on local services for housing support and cash assistance.

Municipalities can apply for grants of up to $20,000 designed to spark new ideas or leverage additional funding to promote economic mobility and equity. Up to 12 municipalities will receive funding. Cities applying for the grant were asked to concentrate on one of three areas: Creating quality employment opportunities for residents, equitable support to strengthen or start small businesses, helping residents connect with services or public benefits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit .

Funding obtained through this grant will support city of Aurora’s Government Contracting Beginners Bootcamp. This capacity building program aligns with NLC’s focus area equitable support to strengthen or start small businesses and mayor Irvin’s S.E.E. initiative. It will target local Spanish- speaking entrepreneurs and seeks to build capacity, increase competitiveness and provide a framework for doing business at the local, state and federal level.

City of Aurora will partner with the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) to develop and deliver content for the bootcamp. The WBDC’s mission is to support and accelerate business development and growth, targeting women and serving all diverse business owners, to strengthen their participation in, and impact on, the economy. The WBDC envisions a diverse world where all business owners have an equitable opportunity to compete and succeed in the marketplace and achieve economic independence.

Workshops will be delivered in Spanish and focus on these specific procurement related topics:

Understanding Government Contracting

How to Obtain M/WBE certification

How to Leverage your Certifications

Intro to Bonding and Insurance

How to Access Capital

How to Find Government Contracting Opportunities/Navigating Bid

Databases

Financing to Scale Business Operations

The Estimating and Bidding Process

The grant provides 100% of the funding and there is no local cost matching involved with the project.

The revenue account for this grant is 101-1404-337.30-40

The expenditure account for this grant is 101-1404-419.32-99

A budget amendment will be necessary because this grant was awarded after the 2024 City of Aurora budget cycle.

The disparity study conducted in 2022 noted business owners found the complexity of information and procurement procedures as one of the main barriers to small businesses contracting with the city of Aurora. Another challenge some small business owners face is the language barrier. Aurora has a Spanish-speaking population of almost 40%, but little procurement related information is provided in Spanish. This deters many small businesses from working with the City.

The Government Contracting Beginners Bootcamp will mitigate the barriers small business face in obtaining MWBE certification and in doing business at the local/state/federal level by creating a series of training sessions, in Spanish, dedicated to helping small business owners better understand procurement procedures. Regularly scheduled training sessions will be offered for free to small business owners in Aurora. Business owners will be allowed to attend as few or as many workshops as necessary to meet their needs.

A Resolution was approved to amend an existing contract for a five-year IT Service Management (ITSM) software to Ivanti, of Salt Lake City, UT, for $129,483.05 and implementation services to Latest Solutions, San Francisco, CA, for $29,700.

City government of Aurora documents show Resolution R23-004 awarded a contract to Ivanti for an ITSM solution for the IT Department. This amendment will provide additional licenses for use by HR and Public Facilities departments.

Ivanti was originally purchased to process IT Service Desk tasks. After good success for IT, HR onboarding and offboarding tasks will be added. Additionally, the SharePoint-based Public Facilities ticketing system will be migrated to Ivanti. Moving these two service groups to Ivanti will provide a single system of record for 3 of the major service organizations within the City. Ivanti will be utilized to track service requests from City staff members.

By moving to a centralized management platform, the City will reduce systems needing to be supported and provide a consistent user experience whether seeking IT support, HR assistance or help from Public Facilities. With all tickets tracked in one system, more comprehensive reports and analytics can be provided across service organizations. This provides better insights into service performance, common issues, and areas for improvement across all departments.

Resolution R32-004 allowed for 15 IT licenses at an annual fee of $58,398.68.

This resolution will upgrade the initial 15 licenses to Enterprise licenses as well as add 10 more Enterprise licenses to ensure adequate licensing for all three departments.

For 2024, the additional costs of these licenses will be prorated to $15,018.05, bringing the total for 2024 to $73,416.73. Licensing costs for each additional year will increase $38,155.00 for a new annual fee of $96,553.68.

Implementation, configuration and training services will be provided by Ivanti named partner Latest Solutions with a one-time fee of $29,700.

A budget amendment was submitted to ensure funds are available in Account 101-1280-419.38-11 – Computer Software – and Account 101-1280-419.32-80 – Consulting Fees – for this purchase.

Presently tools utilized by IT, HR and Central Services staff members to manage inbound requests is neither flexible nor sustainable. A centralized ticketing system will increase efficiencies for all three service areas.

A Resolution was approved authorizing the director of the Purchasing Department to purchase video conferencing hardware and services for Aurora Branch Court Courtroom 2 from Burwood Group, Inc., Chicago, for a total amount not to exceed $123,972.10.

City government of Aurora documents show Aurora Branch Court Courtroom 2 (Courtroom 2) has no video conferencing capabilities. This has led to several inefficiencies that can be remediated or eliminated by adding video conferencing capabilities.

After a competitive bid process and subsequent discovery project, resolution R23-006 awarded configuration and migration of Microsoft SharePoint services and Microsoft Teams environment remediation to Burwood Group (“Burwood”).

As part of the services included with R23-006 Burwood completed a thorough evaluation of the current SharePoint environments which included interviews with key members of every City department. This evaluation allowed Burwood to understand how SharePoint and Teams were being utilized throughout the City. Burwood then made recommendations for migrating data to the Microsoft SharePoint Online environment as well as modifying Microsoft Teams for better utilization by City staff members.

Burwood performed above expectations of City staff members while creating and remediating these foundational services. Due to the detailed knowledge of the City’s SharePoint and Teams services and the extensive integration of these platforms, City staff members believe Burwood is best suited to build upon the SharePoint and Teams foundations in place.

Burwood has successfully implemented video conferencing functionality in multiple conference rooms at City Hall and the Chief’s Conference Room at the Aurora Police Department. These implementations have shown that Burwood has performed beyond expectation and is an effective partner for the City.

Providing video conferencing capabilities in Courtroom 2 will offer several key benefits that enhance the efficiency, accessibility, and functionality of legal proceedings:

Remote Testimony: Witnesses who cannot be physically present in court due to distance, health issues, or safety concerns can still provide testimony. This ensures that their contributions can be heard without the need for travel, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Access for Remote Participants: Lawyers, experts, or parties involved in a case who are unable to attend in person can participate in hearings and trials via video conference. This is particularly valuable in cases involving multiple jurisdictions or when participants are in different geographic areas.
Efficiency and Cost Savings: Video conferencing can reduce the need for travel, which saves time and money for all parties involved, including City staff members, witnesses, and legal professionals. This can also speed up the legal process by making it easier to schedule and conduct proceedings.
Handling High-Profile or Sensitive Cases: In high-profile cases, video conferencing can enhance security and privacy by reducing the need for high-profile individuals to appear in person. This can also help manage the media presence and public attention surrounding such cases.
Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities: Video conferencing can provide alternative ways for individuals with disabilities to participate in legal proceedings without the need for physical accommodations or modifications in the courtroom.
Facilitating International Cases: For cases involving international parties, video conferencing bridges time zone differences and geographic barriers, allowing for more seamless coordination and communication.
Continuity During Disruptions: In situations where natural disasters, pandemics, or other emergencies disrupt normal court operations, video conferencing ensures that legal proceedings can continue without significant delays.
Documentation and Record Keeping: Video conferencing sessions can be recorded, providing a clear record of proceedings, which can be useful for review, appeals, or verifying testimony.
Enhanced Communication: Video conferencing allows for real-time visual and auditory interaction, which can improve communication and understanding between all parties involved in the case.
Reduced Courtroom Congestion: By allowing some participants to join remotely, video conferencing can help manage courtroom capacity and reduce congestion, making it easier to adhere to social distancing guidelines or manage limited space.

Overall, video conferencing in Courtroom 2 will modernize and streamline legal processes, making the justice system more accessible, flexible, and efficient. The equipment being installed will support multiple video conferencing platforms including Microsoft Teams, WebEx and Zoom.

Burwood performed both remote and on-site walkthroughs with City staff members to design the video conferencing system for Courtroom 2 and ensure the solution met the requirements of the Law Department personnel.

Costs for this implementation are listed below:

Hardware, Cables, Shipping $78,972.10

Professional Services $45,000.00

Total $123,972.10

A budget amendment has been submitted to ensure funds are available in account 101-1280-419.32-80 for this purchase.

Installing video conferencing equipment in Courtroom 2 will modernize and streamline legal processes.

A Resolution was approved authorizing the mayor to reserve and appropriate funds for the proposed Eola Road – Autumn Grove Circle to Waubonsie Creek Trail Multi-Use Path project, a shortlisted project for ITEP grant (2024 cycle-16).

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to appropriate funds for Eola Road Multi-Use Path project if project were awarded ITEP grant funds.

The proposed improvement will be an extension of an existing bike path on west side of Eola Road just south of Autumn Grove Cir to Waubonsie Creek Trail on the north end of the project. The improvement is recognized in the Bicycle Pedestrian plan and should encourage alternate mode of transport. The path will connect residential neighborhoods to schools, library, community center and businesses.

The proposed improvements will involve installing 8-10 feet wide asphalt multi-use path, sidewalk installation, drainage work, improvements to pedestrian signals, ADA ramps, pavement markings, striping, restoration and other pertinent work.

ITEP is a reimbursable grant program with an 80/20 split for non-R.O.W. expenses (80% federal share and 20% local share) and a 50/50 split for R.O.W. If the project is selected, the City is required to pay up-front cost for all Engineering Phases and submit paperwork to be reimbursed. The maximum ITEP award, per project, is capped at $3 million.

The proposed project is just over 1 mile (approx. 1.12 miles) in length. The construction cost is estimated at $2.89 million, and the estimated total cost of the project is approximately $3.75 million (includes all Engineering phases, and Construction). The 20% engineering/construction local share would be approximately $750,000. Since all engineering phases must be front funded and 20% construction cost is upon City, the total cost that needs to be appropriated for this project would be $1.45 million.

The deadline to apply for ITEP grant is September 30, 2024. To be eligible for the grant, the City is required to execute a resolution that shows City’s financial commitment towards the project. The City does not have a CIP account established for the project, but would do so if ITEP grant is awarded to this project. The City’s local share would likely be Motor Fuel Tax (MFT).

A Resolution was approved authorizing the mayor to reserve and appropriate funds for the proposed – Ogden Avenue (US 34)- Montgomery Road to Southern DuPage Regional Trail Multi-Use Path project, a shortlisted project for ITEP grant (2024 cycle-16).

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to appropriate funds for Ogden Avenue (US 34) Multi-Use Path project if project were awarded ITEP grant funds.

The proposed improvement will connect an existing multi-use path on Montgomery Road to Southern DuPage County regional trail on the east side over Ogden Avenue (US 34). The improvement is recognized in the Bicycle Pedestrian plan and should encourage alternate mode of transport. The path will connect residential neighborhoods to schools, library, community center, regional trails and businesses.

The proposed project is approx. 1.44 miles in length. The construction cost is estimated at $2.79 million, and the estimated total cost of the project is approximately $3.63 million (includes all Engineering phases, and Construction). The 20% engineering/construction local share would be approximately $726,000. Since all engineering phases must be front funded and 20% construction cost is upon City, the total cost that needs to be appropriated for this project would be $1.39 million.

A Resolution was approved to amend an existing agreement with Granicus, Denver, CO, to add a Service Request Management system at an annual cost of $68.292.24 plus a one-time implementation fee of $65,565.96.

City government of Aurora documents show the City desires a Service Request Management system (SRM) to improve service and response time for residents.

Resolution R23-333 bundled several Granicus solutions into one integrated suite. This bundled set of products includes agenda and video management (Legistar), Freedom of Information requests (FOIA), forms and workflows, communication cloud and engagement and the City website.

This resolution requests approval to add to SRM solutions this product suite. The addition of these solutions will form the foundation of the city’s reimagined 311 resident support services.

This procurement and subsequent implementation will require the active involvement of multiple City departments and will serves as a resource for all City departments and the members of the public that interact with them.

Granicus has supplied digital services to the City for many years including software to support the legislative process (Legistar) and Freedom of Information Act requests (GovQA). Granicus has provided quality service and support during this timeframe and has become a trusted partner for the City.

Granicus solutions are utilized by over 170 cities in the US including Denver, Miami, Orlando, Grand Rapids, and San Antonio.

Cities use SRM systems to enhance interactions with residents, streamline services, and improve overall efficiency in managing municipal affairs. When integrated with the communication cloud and engagement solution, many cities improve the following items:

Citizen Engagement and Service Requests: SRM systems help cities manage and track service requests from residents. For example, if someone reports a pothole or a streetlight outage, the CRM system logs the request, tracks its status, and ensures timely follow-up.
Communication Management: Cities use SRM systems to maintain communication channels with residents. This includes managing email newsletters, alerts about local events, emergency notifications, and updates on city projects or services.
Data Collection and Analysis: SRM systems help cities gather data on resident interactions, service usage patterns, and feedback. This data is analyzed to understand community needs, improve services, and make data-driven decisions.
Issue Tracking and Resolution: The system helps in tracking issues reported by residents, assigning them to appropriate departments, and monitoring the resolution process. This ensures accountability and improves the efficiency of service delivery.
Personalized Services: By maintaining a record of residents’ interactions and preferences, SRM systems enable cities to offer more personalized services. For example, a city might send tailored information about local programs or initiatives that are relevant to specific neighborhoods or demographics.
Streamlining Internal Processes: SRM systems help city departments collaborate more effectively by sharing information and coordinating efforts. This streamlines processes such as handling complaints, managing permits, or coordinating public works projects.
Feedback and Surveys: Cities use SRM systems to conduct surveys and gather feedback from residents about various services and initiatives. This helps in assessing public satisfaction and identifying areas for improvement.
Integration with Other Systems: SRM systems often integrate with other city systems, such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for mapping service requests or financial systems for managing budget and expenditures related to service delivery.

By leveraging SRM systems, cities aim to enhance the quality of life for residents, increase transparency, and build a more responsive and efficient city government.

This resolution requests that the OneView Service Request Module (OneView) be purchased and added to the suite of products supplied to the City by Granicus. The purchase of the OneView solution and the city’s exsiting Granicus products will be bundled into the Granicus Government Experience Service Cloud Advanced which will increase the annual spend with Granicus by $68,292.24. The new annual fee for the bundled services will be $135,499.99 which represents a 10% savings over purchasing the modules separately.

One-time implementation fees which include migrating data from the city’s existing SRM total $65,565.96.

The cost of the bundled Granicus solutions over the 5-year term of the original contract plus the one-time SRM implementation fee, equals $1,616,194.61. Granicus pricing was provided through the National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance (NCPA) Contract.

A budget amendment will be submitted to ensure funds are available in account 101-1281-419.32.20.

As the City works to improve digital services and implement the Information Technology Strategic Plan, an SRM platform that supports new and engaging support services is paramount to the continued success of City digital initiatives.

A Resolution was approved for a third amended and restated redevelopment agreement between the city of Aurora, an Illinois municipal corporation, and DAC Development, LLC.

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 change certain milestones within the agreement to maintain an up-to-date timeline in the RDA, and to address increased costs associated with the project

In September 2021 the City Council approved a redevelopment agreement with DAC Developments LLC. The RDA included a schedule outlining key steps in the construction process and associated dates.

In July 2022 City Council approved a 1st Amendment to the RDA to update the schedule outlined in the original RDA.

In December 2022 City Council approved a 2nd Amendment to the RDA to update certain milestones within the agreement and to adjust the project budget to reflect COVID 19 induced inflationary impacts on construction costs.

DAC has broken ground on the development and has begun work on the site and foundation construction. This work has uncovered substantial remediation issues not revealed in the prior review of the property. This remediation centered both on the need to remove contaminated soils from the site as well as removal of structures such as foundations as deep as 20 feet below grade.

At the time of the second amendment which increased the project budget from $68,000,000 to $84,000,000.00, DAC did not make a request for additional City contributions to the project opting instead to test the altered lending environment. In fact, lenders severely tightened their requirements. Specifically loan amounts as a percentage of costs reduced along with higher lending costs. In addition to high interest rates that were projected to reduce but stayed high, construction costs remained what appears is their higher new normal. Despite the continued strong demand for apartments, many planned projects both in the Chicagoland area and in the country were abandoned or put on hold for an indeterminate duration. This together with unforeseen site work created the request from DAC for additional participation by the City.

Original RDA bifurcated City commitment between a forgivable loan ($963,000) and a grant ($5,877,500). The total increased city participation of $12,590,500 is now classified as a forgivable loan.

The specific changes in funding above are an increase in the City’s commitment of $5,750,000.00 to cover inflationary increases of $1,690,000 million and foundation/remediation increases discovered during initial construction of $4,060,000 million. Note that DAC has increased their Equity Contribution by $2,875,420 and has increased the loan amount by $9,576,285.00 for a total increased commitment of $12,451,705.00.

Compared to the original agreement 3.5 years ago, DAC’s total risk capital (guaranteed debt plus equity) is now $74,135,326 or 85% of total costs. This is $12,451,703 greater than the original RDA and represents DAC’s increased investment.

The City’s cash investment of $12,590,500 is just under 15% of total costs.

Note that the senior loan actually reduced over $6,000,000 from its original amount requiring DAC to obtain much higher cost secondary financing to make up this difference and make up a portion of increased costs.

While the increase in costs is never welcome news, there are justifications for these increases. According to ENR, an index used by the City’s Public Works Department, construction costs since 2021 have increased by 17%. Other private sector indices show much larger increases at 25% or higher and these measures will vary based on the exact type of construction costs included in the index. While total project costs show an increase of 26%, the new costs for soil remediation and foundation changes should be removed from that comparison, lowering the increase to 22%. As such, the increase in project costs is in line with market realities and are not surprising.

Land price stayed the same, financing costs included in September 2024 soft costs.

The increase in costs due to environmental/site issues is comparable to the redevelopment of the Old Copley Hospital. That project anticipated a nearly $10 million cost to tear down and remediate the facility, with no redevelopment. Instead, the City invested $12.5 million to create a new community living and health facility that is a tremendous asset to the neighborhood and the City.

The increase in contributions by the City and the original contributions are reclassified as forgivable loans instead of grants. This classification has been used in most of the City’s recent development agreements.

While these loans will be forgiven at the completion of the project, the City has also included a recovery mechanism for the City’s additional $1,690,000 exclusive of the previously discussed unforeseen environmental/foundation issues. The City’s recovery mechanism works in three ways:

1) First, if actual costs are below budget, the City will share these costs saving 50-50 up to when the City receives its $1,690,000.

2) If the Developer completes the project and later sells the development for a return on investment of greater than 30% (as defined in the Pro Forma and RDA) then the City and Developer will share in the excess return based on the ratio of Developer Equity ($13,323,326) to the City additional contribution ($1,690,000) until the City receives $1,690,000, at which time the Developer keeps any further excess return.

3) If the Developer does not sell the development and if the annual rate of return exceeds 22.5% in any given year, then the City and Developer share in this excess return until the City receives $1,690,000.

Funding for this project is recommended to be taken from the City’s Gaming Tax Fund in the amount of $4.75 million, and $1.0 million from General Operating Revenues. Reimbursements described above will be deposited back to the Gaming Tax Fund first, and General Operating Funds second.

The approval of this amendment and resolution is stated to provide approximately 400 new residences in the downtown area and will be the first new major residential structure in the downtown in over half of a century. The City estimates more than 375 total construction jobs as a part of this development. This development is a key component to the redevelopment of both sides of the Fox River directly north of the downtown

A Resolution was approved to adopt the 2024 Kane County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan.

City government of Aurora documents show adoption of the 2024 Kane County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan will allow the city of Aurora to (1) ensure Aurora can qualify for federal funding before and after a disaster occurs, (2) identify and analyze threats and hazards within the city, (3) develop strategies to ensure a collaborative and comprehensive approach to mitigation, (4) develop intergovernmental partnerships, and (5) gain public insight and information, increasing resident knowledge, and increasing city preparedness against natural threats and hazards.

The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended by the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, is intended to, “reduce the loss of life and property, human suffering, economic disruption, and disaster assistance costs resulting from natural disasters.” Under this legislation, state, tribal, and local governments must develop a natural hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance through the Hazard Mitigation Assistance Programs.

This natural hazard mitigation plan is a community-driven, living document encouraging the community and government to integrate mitigation measures with day-to-day decision-making regarding land use planning, floodplain management, site design, and other functions. The 2024 Kane County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan is an investment in Aurora’s future, safety, and sustainability allowing us to act now to reduce impacts of natural disasters and the changing climate.

The City of Aurora has adopted the Kane County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan since 2003, and history shows that natural hazard mitigation planning and the implementation of risk reduction activities can significantly reduce the physical, financial, and emotional losses caused by disasters, thus increasing resiliency community wide.

Putting the plan into action will be an ongoing collaborative process between Emergency Management, Public Works, and Development Services that may include initiating and completing mitigation projects and integrating mitigation strategies into other community plans and programs. Furthermore, completion of projects is subject to funding and staffing available.

Impact statement:

Failure to adopt the 2024 Kane County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan will make the City of Aurora ineligible for hazard mitigation funding before or after a disaster.

A Resolution was approved for an agreement to maintain storm sewer between the City of Aurora and Kane County Forest Preserve.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to formalize the existing maintenance responsibilities for the storm sewer found within the Kane County Forest Preserve property that was formally part of the Aurora Outlet Mall. This resolution would provide the City Council authority to sign this agreement that has been signed and approved by Kane County FP.

When the Aurora Outlet Mall was developed, they created large out lot wetland detention basins. These basins are considered part of Indian Creek watershed which ultimately outlets into the Fox River. These wetland detention basins accept the runoff from the City of Aurora ROW for Farnsworth Ave and Bilter Road overland and through storm sewer. When the runoff is from the City ROW the City will maintain the storm sewer. While the City has been maintaining the storm sewer City officials did not officially have the easements to do so. When the Outlet Mall transferred ownership to the Forest Preserve they did not grant the City easements over the existing storm sewer.

The Forest Preserve required an agreement in addition to the platted easement in order to grant these easements.

This agreement which has already been approved and signed by the Forest Preserve is to formally ratify the City’s existing responsibilities to maintain the storm sewer that is for the benefit of the City’s ROW.

An Ordinance was approved to set the compensation of the mayor to be elected in 2025 in accordance with the Illinois Municipal Code and the Local Government Officer Compensation Act.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to establish the compensation of the mayor elected in 2025.

Since at least 1848, Illinois has constitutionally required that the compensation of public officers be established prior to the commencement of their term of office. Section 9(b) of Article VII of the present Illinois Constitution expressly provides that “[a]n increase or decrease in the salary of an elected officer of any unit of local government shall not take effect during the term for which that officer is elected. For this reason no local elected official may ever vote to increase (or decrease) his or her own compensation – only the compensation of the person elected by the public to hold the office at the start of the next term.

To ensure that the voters have the right to weigh in on changes to elected official compensation and to prohibit post-election lame duck adjustments, the Illinois General Assembly has further required that any changes to a local elected officer’s compensation be fixed at least 180 days prior to the commencement of a term in office. The Illinois Municipal Code vests the responsibility of establishing the compensation of municipal officers in each municipality’s corporate authorities, which in the case of the City, is the City Council.

The Illinois Municipal Code as well as the City’s Code of Ordinances provides that elected City officers begin their term no earlier than the first regular or special meeting of the City Council in May following the election. The first regular meeting of the City Council in May of 2025 is scheduled to occur on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. This requires the Council to approve adjustments to the salaries of officers elected in 2025 no later than Tuesday, November 12, 2024. If no adjustments are made by this time, the salary schedule adopted by the City Council in 2021 will remain in effect. The salary of the mayor elected in 2025 will remain the same as the mayor’s present salary for the duration of the term ending in 2025.

The proposed levels of compensation were developed and recommended by the Finance Committee. The Finance Committee opted to use an outside firm (Korn Ferry) to conduct a survey of comparable cities, which was completed in August of 2024. Prior to the study, staff members provided information in past practice and general information regarding local comparables. The Finance Committee discussed Korn Ferry’s findings at a regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, August 15, 2024, a member of Korn Ferry was present virtually to answer questions.

The Finance Committee requested additional information from Korn Ferry, which was provided and discussed at the Thursday, August 29th meeting. The Committee held the item again until the Thursday, September 12th meeting, where recommendations were formulated. The Finance Committee recommended that effective June 1, 2025, the salary for the newly-elected mayor should increase by 2.5% each year over the four year term.

From June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2026 – $180,824.72 (2.5%)

From June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027 – $185,345.34 (2.5%)

From June 1, 2027, through May 31, 2028 – $189,978.97 (2.5%)

From June 1, 2028, and continuing thereafter – $194,728.44 (2.5%);

The committee voted unanimously to approve this recommendation.

This ordinance establishes the compensation for the mayor consistent with statute.

A Resolution was approved authorizing the director of the Purchasing Department to sign a 3-year service agreement with CentralSquare Payments for Credit and Debit Card Payment Processing via Paya Connect.

City government of Aurora documents show CentralSquare Technologies, LLC (Naviline) has been the City’s ERP system for over 20 years. The City desires to accept credit and debit cards for Naviline payments without interruption of service and in a manner consistent with best practices. CentralSquare now offers a fully integrated payment solution through Paya Connect which will provide for seamless credit card transactions. This solution is the sole source of a full integration with Naviline and will ensure PCI compliance, integrity of data and easier transaction reconciliation.

Credit and debit card payments have been managed by CORE/Automated Merchant Systems (AMS), a third-party credit card processor since 2006 when the City first began accepting credit cards for goods and services. In 2019, CentralSquare sun-setted Naviline’s Transaction Manager which required a new payment acceptance process to be provided by AMS. The resulting changes have proven to be less reliable and a “loose” integration compared to the previous integration.

Since 2019 City staff members have had to mitigate a multitude of reconciliation issues that arise when CORE credit card terminals do not settle, when servers go down, or when transactions simply fail to appear as they should in Naviline. Despite efforts by all parties involved to fix these issues, problems have persisted without resolution. Due to these issues, customers attempting to make a credit card payment have experienced error messages, incomplete or missing payments, missing receipts, and duplicate payments which require a refund from the City. The issues and time spent to resolve them have become a significant problem.

The solution is to transfer credit card processing from the City’s third party processor to a fully-integrated solution with Naviline which is only offered through CentralSquare Payments.

CentralSquare Technologies is offering to implement Paya Connect to Naviline and Community Development (e-Trakit) products at no cost.

There are no changes being made to any existing contracts with CentralSquare. A new contract with Paya and the issuing bank, BMO Harris, is required.

CentralSquare will waive annual maintenance fees across all CentralSquare product lines if an agreement is signed before September 27th, 2024. The total cost savings to the City over a 5 year period is $33,404.

CentralSquare Payments is a sole source provider of Naviline payments.

CentralSquare and Paya/BMO Harris Bank have matched the City’s credit card processing rates as provided in the payment acceptance application.

Funds are available in account 101-2523-415.38-01 however a balance transfer of $3k from 101-2523-415.45-87 will be required to cover the costs of the new credit card terminals for a total of $9,000.

The financial impact of this change is the annual maintenance cost savings being offered for the entire CentralSquare product line. The only new cost incurred will be a one-time purchase of $9,000 for the new credit card terminals that are compatible with CentralSquare Payments. Therefore, total net impact of changing to CentralSquare Payments is a savings of $24,404 over the next 5 years.

Customers will not see an immediate change in the way they are doing business with the City. For example, a customer paying their water bill or permit will not see any difference when they pay their bill other than swiping their card via a newer credit card terminal, similar to what they already use in retail stores. However, should the City decide to enable additional features available in CentralSquare Payments, such as online bill presentment or text-n-pay, the customer will benefit from an improved payment experience.

The immediate impact of this change will be beneficial to the city of Aurora’s Revenue and Collections and Accounting divisions since it eliminates transaction reconciliation issues.

If the City does not move to CentralSquare Payments City officials will likely continue to see payment reconciliation issues and service interruptions. The result is an increase in staff member hours spent correcting the issues and frustration by customers of the City who are attempting to make a payment.

IT installation and services will be required for implementation over the course of a weekend or afterhours to ensure no disruption in business.

A Resolution was approved to accept the public improvements and maintenance security for the completed SEK Surebond – Phase 1, 2022.362, 601 N. Russel Ave in Aurora, Illinois Ward 4

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 commercial development that constructed a building and stormwater management facility 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, water main, sidewalk, signage, driveway approaches and pavement patches 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 via our onsite consultant. Based on our 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 Water Production Division; the Street Maintenance Division; all of which have been apprised of these new or replaced utilities.

A Resolution was approved to accept the public improvements and waive the maintenance security for the completed East School District #131 Resilience Education Center, 2022.107, 417 5th Street, in Aurora, Illinois Ward 3.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to accept the public improvements installed by the Developer of this project and to waive the normally required, one year maintenance security for these improvements.

This is a development that redeveloped an existing site with public improvements constructed and in place for more than 1 year. 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 improvements including, water main, pavement restoration, sidewalk an d driveway approaches.

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. As required by Section 43-103(c) of the Municipal Code, the Engineering Division has reviewed, approved and filed as-constructed record plans for the development which depict these limited public improvements and has completed and approved a final site inspection of said improvements via our onsite consultant. Based on our review and approved site inspection, it is recommended by the Engineering Division, that City Council accept the public improvements. All public improvements have been in place for more than 1 year and the length of time that has passed since these overall improvements were completed we also recommend that the normally required one year maintenance security be waived, and the original security posted for the site be returned.

A Resolution was approved establishing the maximum number of Class A: Beer & Wine Only liquor licenses (unofficially related to the application from El Paso Mas Grande Inc. at 2134 W Galena Blvd., Aurora in Ward 5.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to increase the number of Class A: Beer & Wine Only liquor licenses. A business that will be opening soon, El Paso Mas Grande Inc., at 2134 W Galena Blvd., has submitted a liquor license application.

This request is presented in accordance with the 2011 amendment to the City’s Liquor Ordinance, specifically Section 6-9(a), which charges the City Council with the authority to determine the number of licenses available in each classification.

El Paso Mas Grande Inc. has submitted a liquor license application to offer beer & wine only for sale for off-site consumption in their grocery store. If approved, this liquor license will allow the sale of packaged beer and wine during business hours.

Moved back to the Committee of the Whole is an Ordinance to set the compensation of the alderpersons for the terms commencing in and after May of 2025 in accordance with the Illinois Municipal Code and the Local Government Officer Compensation Act.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to establish the compensation of the aldermen to be elected in and after May of 2025.

The 2020 schedule dictated the salaries of the aldermen will increase by 3% in 2025 and 2026 and 5% thereafter; with the per meeting stipend fixed at $90/meeting.

The Finance Committee recommended increasing the salaries of the aldermen on a 10%-5%-5%-5% structure, effective with the inauguration of aldermen in 2026 as follows:

From June 1, 2027, through May 31, 2028, $28,146.80;

From June 1, 2028, through May 31, 2029, $29,554.14

From June 1, 2029, through May 31, 2030, $31,031.85; and

From June 1, 2030, and continuing thereafter, $32,583.44; and further

The $90 stipend effective June 1, 2023 the aldermen receive for attending official meetings of the City Council and its committees will remain the same.

This ordinance establishes the compensation for the aldermen as provided by law.

Information/discussion only – Discussion of matters related to the formation and making of a recommendation as to fixing of compensation of elected officials pursuant to the Local Government Officer Compensation Act.

City government of Aurora documents show in June of 2024, the Finance Committee requested information from staff members on the ability for Korn Ferry to conduct a study of elected officials compensation. The Human Resources Department provided a quote of $23,940.00, which was approved by the City Council on July 9, 2024.

The study surveyed cities of similar size and makeup, with a similar form of government. The peer group initially consisted of 23 cities, which was narrowed down to 10, with form of government and population receiving the most weighting in the evaluation process by Korn Ferry.

The report before the Finance Committee provides the results of the survey and does not include recommendations.

Discussion and use of this information should have a positive impact on the ability for the Finance Committee to provide recommendations to the City Council in accordance with the Local Government Officials Compensation Act.

A motion and recommendation with respect to mayoral compensation pursuant to the Local Government Officer Compensation Act.

The report before the Finance Committee provides the results of the survey and does not include recommendations.

At its special meeting of October 8, 2020, and again on October 15, 2020, the Finance Committee recommended that effective June 1, 2021, the salary for the newly-elected mayor should increase by 2.5%, and then by 2.5% in the next two succeeding years before finally increasing by 5% for the remaining year in the term as follows:

From June 1, 2021, through May 31, 2022 – $162,328 (2.5%)

From June 1, 2022, through May 31, 2023 – $166,386.00 (2.5%)

From June 1, 2023, through May 31, 2024 – $170,546.00 (2.5%)

From June 1, 2024, and continuing thereafter – $179,073.00 (5%);

Additionally, when accepting a vehicle allowance in lieu of a dedicated City-owned or leased vehicle, the mayor’s vehicle allowance will be fixed at $534 per month.

At its meeting of October 27, 2020, upon the motion of Alderman Carl Franco, the City Council amended the proposed compensation structure as follows:

From June 1, 2021, through May 31, 2022 – $158,369.00 (0%)

From June 1, 2022, through May 31, 2023 – $163,120.07 (3%)

From June 1, 2023, through May 31, 2024 – $168,013.67 (3%)

From June 1, 2024, and continuing thereafter – $176,414.36 (5%);

Following the adoption of Alderman Franco’s amendment, the Council approved the ordinance as amended.

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