Mayor of Aurora thankful for veterans, disgusted with U. S. Census Bureau

By Jason Crane

Mayor of Aurora, Richard Irvin, expressed disgust with the U. S. Census Bureau, at the Committee of the Whole meeting, Tuesday, May 21.

Mayor Irvin made the following statement about the U.S. Census Bureau population estimates:

“The most recent population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau are just as flawed and erroneous as the reported 2020 Census counts. Census Bureau data from 2020 shows nationwide undercounts, and to use those incorrect numbers to offer further estimates is absolutely absurd.

“We know that Aurora didn’t experience a loss of 17,000 residents in 2020 and reject the notion that we lost an estimated 3,000 more over the past three years. This is why we are pursuing a special Census recount, although the process to do so has been arduous at best.

“The U.S. Census Bureau’s errors and apparent lack of concern and expediency in remedying those errors, which disproportionately impact minority and low-income communities, is a national travesty that has dire consequences.

“Aurora has lost millions of dollars per year since the 2020 Census and continues to lose millions while we jump through hoops and cut through red tape in the special Census process. The U.S. Census Bureau must be held accountable. It should cease issuing estimates until it first rectifies the results of the 2020 Census by working in collaboration with impacted cities, like Aurora, Illinois, to do so.

“As the representative of the residents of Aurora, I am extremely disappointed, thoroughly disgusted, and ultimately dismayed with the U.S. Census Bureau.

“The gravity of this situation cannot be underestimated. I am calling on the U.S. Census Bureau to be a more responsible and professional partner in this process.”

Aurora is currently in the process to have a Special Census Recount.

•Mayor Irvin presented honors to World War II veteran Richard ‘Dick’ Miller, 97, who will lead the 2024 Aurora Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 27.

The U. S. Navy hero was honored Tuesday, May 21, in a ceremony led by mayor Irvin, a U.S. Army veteran, and the Aurora City Council. He was presented with a mayoral proclamation and received his Grand Marshal’s Sash.

•The presentation can be viewed on the city government of Aurora’s YouTube page after the 8 minute mark by clicking here.

•The City Council is considering a Resolution authorizing the execution of a redevelopment agreement (RDA) providing for the conveyance of City owned property at 7 South Broadway, a City grant in the amount of $413,547 and a forgivable loan in the amount of $413,547 to Frontier Development, LLC Owned by Conrad and Curt Hurst, in partnership with the restaurateurs Chris and Mehgan Curren, Proprietors of Graceful Ordinary in St Charles.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to activate a long dormant property and increase its value with a combination of public and private investment while simultaneously adding a new sales tax producing restaurant as an anchor to the planned redevelopment of Broadway.

The City purchased the 3,200 square foot one-story building from Gary Brown nearly six years ago for $107,000.

Mr. Brown leased it back to operate his art gallery; he terminated his lease in 2023 for health-related reasons; the City has since leased a portion of the building to Mark Radina & Archetype-Stained Glass on a short-term basis generating minimal real estate taxes and will seek to assist Mr. Radina with his relocation.

The City has recently issued an RFQ for several City-owned buildings along Broadway. The Frontier/Graceful Ordinary team approached the city just before the RFQ was to be released. It was determined that having a restaurant developed by this team on the heels of their St. Charles success would help activate the RFQ and facilitate the re-imagination of Broadway.

Frontier is a multi-faceted real estate company that owns, operates, develops, constructs, and manages commercial, retail, and residential properties. The company has been developing large-scale residential and mixed-use developments in the Chicago area since 1992 and previously sold their homebuilding company to Lennar, one of the largest home-building companies in the United States. Frontier has taken a major role in the redevelopment of downtown St. Charles, including the purchase and renovation of the Arcada theater, the building that houses the Flagship on the Fox and Pollyanna Brewing and the historic building that now houses the extremely-well received Graceful Ordinary restaurant.

Chef Chris Curren has worked with some of the most celebrated figures in Chicago’s restaurant scene and owned his own restaurant in River North (Blue 13). Megan Curren has had a distinguished career in hospitality, known especially for creating and managing unique and memorable guest experiences.

The challenge of repurposing 7 South Broadway is one common to many of the City’s downtown buildings. They require substantial funds to rehabilitate and prepare for new tenancy, with costs far exceeding the renovated value. While this gap was narrowing with the rise of commercial rents, the post pandemic increase in construction costs has offset these gains. The result is either ingrained vacancy or a public private partnership that balances the risk/rewards taken by the developer and the benefits, financial and otherwise to the city,

To induce visionary development that maintains the character of the downtown, the city evaluated the costs to rehabilitate against its renovated value. These costs, including the purchase of the property are $1,764,191 or about $550 per square foot, are projected by Frontier. Simply put, rents would have to be more than double the current market to attract development.

Proactively addressing this gap was the goal, as was done successfully with the now renovated and fully occupied long vacant downtown historic residential buildings. The math begins with the tenant (user) who estimates its revenue and profitability and what can be allocated to rent. This rent is the foundation of the renovated property value which serves as the “envelope” for this user/tenant. Here the value is represented by an investment by Frontier $927,000. With the turnkey costs of $1,764,191, the difference or “gap” is $827,095.

The challenge for the city is to find a balance which enables the sponsor/ entrepreneur/ owner/ tenant to invest substantial capital into the downtown, while creating a financial structure that is at the same time attractive to the city and the taxpayers.

The City will fund this difference by utilizing three incremental funding sources that would not be available but for this redevelopment: Sales taxes, food and beverage and estimated real estate taxes above those already being generated. Sales and food and beverage taxes are estimated to be about $60,000 to $80,000 annually. Using these proceeds the city will pay itself back $413,437 (50% of what is being advanced, the “forgivable loan”) in no more than 8 years. If projections are below this threshold, the developer will refund the difference to the city. At that point the city’s investment is reduced to the remaining $413,437.

The City will earn back its remaining investment (also $413,437) or alternatively earn a return on this investment by increasing the value of the property through its redevelopment. The property happens to be in a previously established TIF #10. Base taxes are estimated at $3,002 and these funds will continue to go to school district 131 as well as other taxing bodies including the city.

Post redevelopment, total city taxes are expected increase to about $21,000, of which approximately $18,000 are additional taxes/revenues) annually. By virtue of the existing TIF, these funds will be additional revenues to the City. The City will be receiving approximately 4.5% on this investment ($18,000/$413,437) in line with the City’s financial investments. Once the forgivable is fully amortized (possibly as early as 6 years), all sales and food and beverage taxes will be “available” to amortize this principal amount as well.

Bottom line, City officials believe 100% of its investment will be returned using new monies that will be generated as a result of this redevelopment. While each situation where an incentive is called for is different, the goal is to create an overall consistency in how these needs are evaluated and addressed.

When it comes to the vibrant world of Italian cuisine, understanding the competitive landscape is as essential. The goal of this paragraph is to dissect each restaurants operation model by laying down differences in offerings, customer service, marketing tactics, to pinpoint how different Italian restaurant can shine at the same time within the same environment.

Overall, Italian restaurants can be grouped in three categories, white cloth restaurants, trattorias, and osterias.

White cloth restaurants feature refined recipes, above average entry cost, and usually geared towards formal settings and occasions.

Trattorias are generally geared towards casual dining where even larger groups of customers may want to dine in or have parties. It is along the line of a small banquet facility. Still classy and rich in taste.

The concept being brought to fruition is of an osteria. Historically, an osteria was a cocktail and wine bar that matured to also serve meals. Looking at the specific word “osteria”, it is derived from the Italian word “oste”, which translates to “innkeeper” alluding to the importance that the innkeeper had for the success of the business. In this instance, the “innkeeper” are Chris and Megan Curren, the owners of Graceful Ordinary, a renowned restaurant in St Charles bringing a crowd of followers to Aurora.

Osterias feature simple but classy fresh pastas and pastries in a welcoming and warm setting, attracting visitors, clients searching for the experience and the ambience.

The name of the new restaurant is Vicolo (Italian for alley), a charming European café and Pasticceria set to become a delightful culinary destination for the downtown. Vicolo will offer a unique experience that seamlessly transitions from a laid-back European café during the day to an elevated dining destination in the evening. The restaurant will have seating in Skinny Park through an opening in the building’s southern façade as well as on Water Street mall through a license agreement. The city will assist in any site preparation in the park to facilitate this outdoor dining experience.

With this being said, each Italian restaurant will be able to curve out its own clientele and ensure success without conflicting with each other, and enriching the already sophisticated mix of offers in Aurora.

The restaurant will be developed according to the timeline laid out in the RDA, with an anticipated opening date by the first quarter of 2025.

Development of a restaurant tailored to Aurora by a team of experienced real estate and culinary professionals should not only bring an underutilized building back onto the tax rolls but should serve as an anchor within both the Broadway beautification plan and the recently released RFQ that seeks to bring all City buildings in and around Broadway to their highest and best uses. The restaurant will be a boon to the nearby popular Venue music space (without any food availability) as well the high demand for dining both by Paramount patrons and the general public eager for a variety of dining options especially those that cannot be experienced elsewhere in the western suburbs.

The City expects to recover its investment through sales, food and beverage and property taxes all currently at zero for the vacant city owned building. With the Venue, the anticipated opening of the Tangled Roots brewery on nearby Galena and the popular French 75 gallery and lounge, the east side of the river will be energized in a manner that has not been seen since the halcyon days when Broadway was the destination most favored by Aurorans.

The City Council gave consent to the following agenda items likely to be placed on the Tuesday, May 28 full City Council agenda:

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the mayor and City clerk to execute an Agency Agreement with the State of Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics and a not-to-exceed agreement for Construction Phase Engineering Services in the amount of $152,000 with Crawford, Murphy and Tilly, Inc. for the rehabilitation of auto parking lots and entrance road project (ARR 4544) at the Aurora Municipal Airport.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain approval to enter into a Construction Phase Engineering Agreement with Crawford, Murphy and Tilly, Inc. as well as an Agency Agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation Division of Aeronautics.

Land side airport roads and auto parking lots are non-revenue producing and therefore ineligible for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding. However, under the Rebuild Illinois Airports Capital Funding Bill, ARR was successful in receiving funding for the much needed Rehabilitation of the airport’s deteriorating Auto Parking Lots and Entrance Road.

Crawford, Murphy and Tilly, Inc. will be providing construction phase engineering services for this project as they have been selected as the City of Aurora’s aviation engineering consultant under resolution R23-083.

The total cost for this project is estimated to be $1,611,093. The City’s Local Share is $306,093, approximately 19% of the total cost. Funds for this project have been set aside in the airport’s 2024 budget under CIP D055 in account number 504-4454-433.73-99.

This project should have no adverse impact to the City of Aurora and should reduce the ongoing cost of maintaining the airport infrastructure, etc..

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing payment to F.H. Paschen, S.N. Nielson & Associates LLC for repairs to the structure at 35 N Broadway, Aurora, 60505, in the amount of $759,445.78.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to ensure the immediate health and safety of the general public and to preserve the overall aesthetics of Downtown Aurora.

At the southeast corner of North Broadway and New York Street, the two-story, commercial structure at 35 North Broadway, Aurora, Illinois, 60506-5816 (Parcel #15-22-332-001), was erected in the Central Business District of Downtown Aurora, circa 1900. The structure’s foundation rests on the property lot line which is directly adjacent to public sidewalks (Ex. 1 and 2).

On March 27, 2023, due to observed exterior masonry failure and to protect the public from falling debris, the City retained F.H. Paschen, S.N. Nielson & Associates LLC, the City’s Job Order Contracting (JOC) program contractor, to affix emergency scaffolding on the building’s north wall, to perform emergency repairs on the exterior walls for the deteriorating masonry, and to begin removal of the failing components.

Following removal of most of the wall exterior layer and exposure of the underlying walls, the City directed F.H. Paschen to commission a field structural site analysis which was performed by A. Rowe Construction Consulting, LLC, of Chicago. On July 26, 2023, the City was provided a final field structural site analysis evaluation report which describes the building deficiencies (Ex. 3). All of the emergency Court ordered work was completed in the fall of 2023.

The cost of the initial emergency scaffolding totalled $38,644.85 (Ex. 4). Based on the findings and recommendations in the structural site analysis report, F.H. Paschen proposed to perform the necessary building repairs for $720,800.93 (Ex. 5), which results in an overall total of $759,445.78.

Funding for this project will be drawn from account: 601-0000-410.40-78.

F.H. Paschen is the job order contracting vendor for the City per resolution R20-221.

F.H. Paschen is not indebted to the City.

The City intends to place a lien on the the two-story, commercial structure (Parcel #15-22-332-001) for 100% of the City expenditures.

During repairs, access to sidewalks and streets adjacent to the building was temporarily restricted. However, all work has been completed and full access to streets and sidewalks has been restored.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the City of Aurora to enter into a crossing surface installation agreement with BNSF Railway Company for improvements of the crossing of Indian Trail and the BNSF Railroad.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to enter into a crossing surface installation agreement with BNSF for the Indian Trail crossing.

The project has secured federal funding to cover up to 80% of Construction and Construction Engineering costs. The funding sources include Surface Transportation Program – Local (STU) and Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ). A total of $3,800,000.00 in federal funds has been secured for Construction and Construction Engineering on the project.

The project involves modernizing the signalized intersections along Indian Trail between Edgelawn Dr and Highland Ave. Modernization includes replacement of all aging signal equipment, widening of curb radii to meet design vehicle requirement, and improving pedestrian facilities to meet ADA compliance. The intersections will feature new signal heads with 4-face flashing yellow turn arrows, which are in use on Orchard Rd and are proposed in other upcoming projects throughout the City. Additionally, the existing roadway and 8-10 foot wide bike path will be resurfaced as part of this project. Additional general information and exhibits can be found on the project website (https://www.aurora-il.org/2365/Indian-Trl-from-Edgelawn-Dr-to-Highland-).

The City is continuing work with their selected design consultant, Stanley Engineering, on final design plans under a previous City agreement. The plans are 99% complete and the “initial final” plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E) were submitted to IDOT on November 27, 2023. The project is likely targeting a September 2024 IDOT letting, pending final land acquisition certification and railroad agreement approval.

As part of this project, coordination has been ongoing with the BNSF Railway regarding the crossing at Indian Trail immediately west of Highland Ave. The current crossing is in poor condition and has been subject to numerous motorist complaints. BNSF has completed some interim improvements recently, but the crossing is in need of more substantial repairs to bring the crossing to acceptable condition.

Through this coordination, BNSF has agreed to repair and raise the crossing surface to provide smoother driving conditions and better drainage. To complete this work, BNSF requested the City to provide payment for any traffic control expenses incurred by the railroad to construct the improvements, estimated at $15,000. These costs would be eligible for federal reimbursement up to 80%.

The 2024 City Budget is anticipated to provide for sufficient funds in Account 202-4020-418.76-39 (GC083, Indian Trail Signal – Edgelawn to Highland). Approval of these funds was already approved by Council in December 2023 (R23-365), as part of the Phase 3 Construction Agreements for this project. Those agreements showed the $15,000 of railroad costs as a federally reimbursable cost.

Traffic will need to be detoured while the tracks are raised/replaced. Exact details of the closure (timeline and timeframe) are unknown at this time. Since federal funds are being used, the City needs to wait for Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) authorization before proceeding with the work.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the sale of obsolete and surplus property using JJ Kane Auctioneers.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to sell surplus vehicles and equipment equitably and efficiently through public auction.

The City of Aurora has sold City-owned vehicles and equipment through public auctions for more than twenty years.

In 2024, following trade-ins and salvages, the City will have several used surplus vehicles and equipment remaining to sell. Prior to sale, the Fleet Maintenance Division removes all reusable equipment, City decals, license plates, insurance cards, and any other identification. Police vehicles are restored to a monochromatic paint scheme and all law enforcement lighting and equipment is removed.

The City has utilized JJ Kane Auctioneers for many years to efficiently sell vehicles and equipment. Their auction yard is at the Beloit, Wis. location. The auctions are open to the public and conducted via internet. There are no fees charged to the City other than the transportation charge of the vehicles to the auction yard which is deducted from the final sale proceeds.

Some of the operable vehicles will be retained until later in the year. This temporary addition to the fleet will provide vehicles for City divisions that employ seasonal staff members.

Proceeds from the sale of vehicles are recorded as revenue in account 101-0000-392.01-00

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the execution of a Joint Funding Agreement with the State of Illinois, the execution of a Phase 2 Engineering Agreement with Baxter & Woodman, Inc. in the not to exceed amount of $70,476.00, and the appropriation of $70,476.00 of MFT Funds for the South Edgelawn Drive at BNSF Railway Tracks Crossing Project.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to execute the Joint Funding Agreement for Federally Funded PE/ROW, there by reserving sufficient funds to cover the local agency share of the project cost by resolution, to approve the Phase 2 Local Public Agency Engineering Services Agreement with Baxter & Woodman, Inc. and to Appropriate Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Funds by Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Resolution for MFT # 20-00335-00-FL.

The City recently received Design Approval from IDOT on the Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering study regarding the construction of a bike and pedestrian crossing at the BNSF Railroad at Edgelawn Drive and is now looking to move forward to Phase 2 Design Engineering.

This project received Local Rail-Highway Crossing Safety Program federal funds, 90% federal funding up to $490,680.00. During Phase 1 Engineering, the total project construction cost increased from the previously estimated $545,200 to $949,050. This increase is largely due to additional railroad requirements from BNSF. The City has requested additional federal funding, and the request is under review.

The project limit span is from the commercial driveway (south of the BNSF tracks) to the Virgil Gilman Trail (north of the BNSF tracks). The proposed improvements include constructing an 8’ asphalt bike path on the east side of Edgelawn Drive, through the BNSF tracks. The bike path will connect to the Virgil Gilman Trial to the north and paved shoulder to the south at the commercial driveway using off and on-street bike path, pavement marking and signage. Other improvements include railroad track crossing material and railroad gate/flasher infrastructure and circuitry.

The City posted a Qualifications Based Selection (QBS) on March 1, 2024 to select a Phase 2 Design Engineering Consultant. The posting closed on March 15, 2024. Three (3) firms submitted qualifications on the projects, and the top scoring firm was Baxter and Woodman of Naperville, Illinois. Baxter and Woodman also completed the Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering.

City officials are anticipating the design work to be completed over the next year, with construction to take place in 2026.

This followed the Request for Qualifications process and is not subject to the local preference policy. The funding source, federal and MFT funds, is not subject to the local preference policy.

The federally funding is a 90/10 split and is a reimbursable program. The Joint Funding Agreement for Federally Funded PE/ROW (BLR 05310PE) will need to be executed to utilize those funds. The City will front fund engineering costs and will be reimbursed roughly 90% of the costs. The City’s final share of the Phase 2 Engineering costs is anticipated to be $7,048.00.

Due to the extensive agreement processing time by IDOT, staff members have opted to go for a Section 1440 processing to start the project as soon as possible. A traditional agreement approval process by IDOT takes 6 months to over a year to get the notice to proceed to kick start Phase 1 or 2 engineering services. Section 1440 allows the local agency to get started with design engineering services prior to Federal/State authorization of the Phase 2 engineering funds. However, the City needs to wait to ask for reimbursement until the agreements are reviewed and executed by IDOT.

Since IDOT needs to shift some funding around between phases, it is possible (though unlikely), the amount of federal funding for this phase will not be increased and the City share could be $25,476.00. Since City officials have opted for Section 1440 processing, the documents will need to be executed by City to start the Phase 2 engineering services. If the forms are amended by IDOT or CBLRS (Central Office), the mayor and City clerk will execute the most current forms.

IDOT requires a Resolution to Appropriate the MFT Funds prior to their expenditure for approved projects. The resolution amount is higher than the anticipated City’s share in order to cover front funding the Design Engineering cost.

The 2024 City budget provides the funds through the following account:

GB136 Edgelawn Dr at BNSF RR 203-4060-431.79-99 $70,476.00

The project will provide alternate mode of transport for commuters and encourages recreational use of the amenity.

•Consent was given to a Resolution awarding the McCoy Drive and Cheshire Drive Traffic Signal Installation project construction to H & H Electric Company of Franklin Park, for the amount of $520,195.62 and the appropriation of Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to award the McCoy Drive and Cheshire Drive Traffic Signal Installation project to H & H Electric Company and the appropriation of $520,195.62 of Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds for the project.

The project consists of installing a new traffic signal at the intersection of McCoy Drive and Cheshire Drive, sidewalk improvements, refresh striping and pavement markings, combination curb and gutter removal and replacement, adding appropriate signage, restoration and other miscellaneous work in accordance with the plans and specifications.

The project bid was advertised on April 7, 2024. The City opened bid on May 1, 2024, the bidder was H&H Electric Company at $520,195.62.

Local preference does not apply to this project due to funding source. This project uses Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Funds and would need appropriating the funds.

City’s 2024 budget provides funds through the following account:

GC 082 McCoy Drive abd Cheshire Dr 203-4020-418-76-39 $520,195.62

Maintenance and energy costs for proposed traffic signal, approximately $308 per month after construction is complete and City takes signal maintenance over.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the mayor to execute phase 3 construction engineering agreement with HR Green, Inc. and appropriation of Motor Fuel Tax Funds for McCoy Drive and Cheshire Drive Traffic Signal Installation project.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to approve Phase 3 Construction Engineering Services agreement with HR Green, Inc. and to appropriate Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds by IDOT resolution.

The project consists of installing a new traffic signal at the intersection of McCoy Drive and Cheshire Drive, sidewalk improvements, refresh striping and pavement markings, combination curb and gutter removal and replacement, adding appropriate signage, restoration and other miscellaneous work in accordance with the plans and specifications.

HR Green to provide Phase III engineering services on a part-time basis for the installation of traffic signals at the intersection of McCoy Drive and Cheshire Drive. The services would include being present on-site during construction on need basis, available to answer any questions from the contractor, coordination with City staff members, residents, take notes, measure quantities and other phase 3 engineering work until the completion of the project.

IDOT requires a resolution to appropriate the MFT funds prior to their expenditure for approved projects.

The 2024 fiscal year budget provides the funds through the following account:

GC 082 McCoy Dr and Cheshire Dr 203-4020-418-76-39 $26,093.00.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the execution of a Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering Agreement with Stanley Consultants, Inc. in the not to exceed amount of $189,555.00, and the appropriation of $189,555.00 of MFT Funds for the E New York Street N Farnsworth Avenue Intersection Improvement Project.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to approve the Phase 1 Local Public Agency Engineering Services Agreement with Stanley Consultants, Inc. and to Appropriate Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Funds by Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Resolution.

New York Street and Farnsworth Avenue are classified as arterial roadways within the City. At their intersection, New York Street and Farnsworth Avenue has 4 through lanes, with single left turn lanes on each leg. Average daily traffic is near 20,000 vehicles per day on the north and west legs, 16,000 vehicles per day on the east leg, and 12,000 vehicles per day on the south leg. The intersection is identified under IDOT safety tier for safety concerns based on the crashes at this intersection. The City would like to enhance safety for all road users including motorists and pedestrians throughout this corridor.

The City applied for and was awarded a Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant in September 2023. The proposed improvements at the intersection include modernizing the traffic signals, reconstructing pedestrian refuge islands, resurfacing the intersection, upgrading street lighting, updating sidewalks, installing new detectable warning signs to enhance pedestrian crossing through the intersection, installing a video detection system with PTZ cameras, updating the pavement markings, and other pertinent work.

The City published a Qualifications Based Selection (QBS) for the Phase 1 Engineering services on November 29, 2023. 11 firms submitted their qualifications and experience. Staff members reviewed the qualifications and determined that Stanley Consultants, Inc. of Chicago was the most qualified with the top 3 firm’s scores.

The Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering Agreement (BLR 05530) from Stanley Consultants, Inc. in the amount of $189,555.00 will provide Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering Services. City officials are anticipating the preliminary design work to be completed in summer 2025, with Phase 2 design work to follow and construction to take place in 2027.

The agreement being presented is only for Phase 1 Engineering. The QBS included a provision that the City can utilize the same firm for the Phase 2 Design Engineering as Phase 1 Engineering. Provided the consultant’s work is satisfactory, a separate resolution for the Phase 2 Engineering will be prepared at a later time for Council’s approval.

This followed the Request for Qualifications process and is not subject to the local preference policy. The funding source, MFT funds, is not subject to the local preference policy.

The total construction cost of this project is estimated at $1,500,000. The total HSIP federal funds allocated to this project is up to $676,060. The grant only covers safety specific items and does not cover maintenance type items (resurfacing). The HSIP is a 90/10 split and is a reimbursable program. HSIP funds are eligible to be used for all phases of engineering and construction, however, due to agreement processing times, funding sunset dates, and the limited HSIP funding available it is recommended to solely fund Phase 1 engineering with MFT funds. The City will continue to pursue other funding opportunities to reduce the City’s cost share on this project.

IDOT requires a Resolution to Appropriate the MFT Funds prior to their expenditure for approved projects.

The 2024 Fiscal Year budget provides the funds through the following account:

GC092 New York and Farnsworth Int Improvements 203-4020-418.76-39 $189,555.

•Consent was given to a Resolution approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Aurora and the Wheatland Township Road District for the resurfacing of Wolf’s Crossing Road.

City government of Aurora documents show this intergovernmental agreement (IGA) will allow the City to resurface a section of Wolf’s Crossing Road under the jurisdiction of Wheatland Township Road District (Township), and for the Township to pay the City for the construction costs.

City Council previously awarded a Construction Contract for the 2024 Citywide Street Resurfacing-EAST project to Geneva Construction Co. in the amount of $5,616,891.50 (R24-123). As a part of that approval, staff members indicated that the contracted amount of $5,616,891.50 included approximately $40,000-$50,000 worth of work within Wheatland Township’s portion of Wolf’s Crossing Road.

In coordination with the Township during design, the City included this work as part of the City’s bidding documents. The intent is for the City to pay Geneva Construction for the work, and then be reimbursed by the Township for their share. The amount to be reimbursed will be based on actual construction quantities, in an amount not to exceed $45,000.00.

Construction in this area will likely take place during the summer. The street will be under construction for 8 to 10 weeks and will have some impact to traffic.

•Consent was given to a Resolution approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Aurora and the Sugar Grove Township Road District for the resurfacing of Prairie Street.

City government of Aurora documents show this intergovernmental agreement (IGA) will allow the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) through a federally funded project under design by the City, to resurface a section of Prairie Street under the jurisdiction of Sugar Grove Township Road District (Township), and for the Township to pay the City for the construction and construction engineering costs.

The project will resurface Prairie Street from the west City limits to Randall Road. The project is in the Kane-Kendall Council of Mayors (KKCOM) active program and has federal funds secured for construction and construction engineering.

The City has been performing Phase 1 and Phase 2 Engineering in-house. The project CIP is GB160 and the local share is anticipated to be Motor Fuel Tax (MFT). The project is targeting a late 2024 IDOT letting with construction to take place in 2025.

The Township jurisdiction on Prairie Street is from just east of Barnes road to west of Meadowsedge Lane. The project as originally scoped would have had an omission through the Township jurisdiction. During the Phase 1 process, the City coordinated with the Township and the Township indicated that they would like their portion paved as a part of this project.

In the next couple of months, the typical Phase 3 agreements that accompany these types of federally funded projects (joint funding agreement for state-led construction work and construction engineering agreement) will be presented to City Council for approval. This IGA needs approval at this time due to the federal funding and IDOT processes, which require the IGA to be approved before the project letting.

Through coordination with KKCOM, City staff members confirmed that the Township portion of the project is federally eligible, and there are enough additional federal funds available to fully fund both the City portions and Township portions at 80/20 (80% federal, 20% local). However, those additional federal funds are not yet officially approved at this time. The Township indicted that if needed, they would pay for 100% of the costs within their jurisdiction. Since this IGA needs to move forward before that additional federal money will be officially approved, the language in the IGA tries to convey what is current and what City officials think will happen with the funding in the future.

The amount to be reimbursed will be based on actual construction quantities, actual construction engineering costs, and amount of federal funding received.

Construction on this project is scheduled to take place in 2025.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement between the Forest Preserve District of Will County, City of Aurora, and Wheatland Township Road District for the Phase I Engineering Services for the construction of multi-use path along Wolf’s Crossing Road in the City of Aurora and Wheatland Township, Will County, Illinois.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to enter an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) for the Phase 1 Engineering Services for the design and construction of 3,960’ of 10’ multi-use path along the north and south side of Wolf’s Crossing Road, closing a regional trail systems gap between Aurora, Will County, and Naperville.

In 2016, the Forest Preserve District of Will County identified the Wolf’s Crossing Trail as a critical trail connection within the County Bikeway Plan as it will directly connect residents and neighborhoods in Aurora, Naperville, and other communities as well as existing bikeway corridors that provide connectivity to a Regional Fox River, Tall Grass Greenway, DuPage River, and Normantown Trail systems.

In the fall of 2021, a feasibility study was conducted by the Forest District Preserve to analyze the potential for an off-street trail/path system along two roadways within Aurora and Naperville in Will County. Wolf’s Crossing Road is one of the roadways that was in the feasibility study. Many challenges and constraints and recommendations were represented in the study. One of the major constraints identified is the rail crossing at Normantown Road.

Knowing that the railroad crossing is a major issue for any path connection, the Forest Preserve District requested funding assistance from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), and in April of 2023, rail crossing improvements at Wolf’s Crossings Road were awarded/ programmed for funding from the ICC Crossing Safety Improvement Program for Grade Crossing Protection Fund for FY 2024-2028. Construction of the safety improvements at the railroad crossing could begin as soon as 2026.

In the summer of 2023, Will County Forest Preserve District initiated a discussion with the City and Wheatland Township Road District for the construction of Wolf’s Crossing Trail as a portion of Wolf’s Crossing Road is within the City of Aurora, which is maintained by the City, while the majority of the Wolf’s Crossing Road is unincorporated Will County, which is maintained by the Wheatland Township Road District. All Parties agreed on the need and desire for construction and development of a multi-use path along Wolf’s Crossing to provide for a safe pedestrian connection between the communities.

The proposed path location will run along the north side of Wolf’s Crossing Road from Hoffman Boulevard to Carls Drive and along the south side of Wolf’s Crossing Road from Carls Drive to Normantown Road, crossing the CN Railroad Track.

The proposed intergovernmental agreement (IGA) is for Phase 1 engineering services, along with an agreement to collaborate and participate in future phases for this project. Phase I Engineering is required when applying for federal funding.

The Phase 1 engineering services for this project consists of the preliminary engineering, field data collection and review, topographic and environmental survey, preliminary design studies, project coordination with other agencies including the railroad, drainage studies, and right of way review. Phase 1 engineering services shall be performed by an engineering consultant firm selected by Forest Preserve as they are the lead agency on this project.

The estimated total project cost is approximately $3,000,000 for all engineering, construction, and right-of-way acquisitions. It is anticipated that the project will be comprised of three phases: Phase I – Preliminary Engineering, Phase II – Design Engineering/Permitting/ROW acquisition, and Phase III – Construction.

The total cost for Phase 1 engineering is $227,194. The Phase 1 engineering cost will be split 50/50 between the City of Aurora and Forest Preserve District of Will County.

Forest Preserve District of Will County will be pursuing federal funding for Phase II and Phase III through programs such as CMAQ, ITEP. All agreements for future phases of the project will be subject to further review by the City and will require an amendment of this agreement.

Federal funding is typically an 80/20 split. With 80% provided by the Federal and 20% provided by Local Agency. It is anticipated that 20% of the city local share for Phase II and III will be supported by a portion of the Lincoln Prairie Development Land Cash Park Contribution.

The Phase 1 Engineering Design Service is accounted for in the 2024 budget, $100,000 within CIP# GB 165 account 340-4060-431-73-19. The remaining amount that is not budgeted for this year but will be budgeted in the 2025 CIP.

To be awarded federal funding Phase 1 engineering is required. Therefore, without this Intergovernmental agreement, Phase 1 engineering will not begin, making it more difficult to receive federal grants for the construction of the multi-use path.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the execution of a Local Public Agency Amendment #1 with the State of Illinois, the execution of a Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering Supplement with Baxter & Woodman, Inc. in the not to exceed amount of $24,301.00, and the appropriation of $21,391.00 of MFT Funds for the South Edgelawn Drive at BNSF Railway Tracks Crossing Project.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to execute the local public agency amendment #1 there by reserving sufficient funds to cover the local agency share of the project cost by resolution, to approve the Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering Services Supplement with Baxter & Woodman, Inc. and to Appropriate Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Funds by Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Resolution for MFT # 20-00335-00-FL.

The City recently received Design Approval from IDOT on the Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering study regarding the construction of a bike and pedestrian crossing at the BNSF Railroad at Edgelawn Drive. Baxter & Woodman has been under contract with the City to complete the Phase 1 Preliminary Engineering in the amount of $35,698.09 (approved by City Council as R21-160).

During the Phase 1 study, Baxter & Woodman completed a number of work items not identified in the original Phase 1 agreement, mostly related to items required by outside agencies. These included:

• Right-of-way and easement research.
• Alternatives analysis as required by the railroads and IDOT.
• Public information meeting as required by IDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Similar to the original engineering agreement, this supplement is federally eligible and covered at 90% federal funds. Therefore, the true cost increase to the City for this supplement is $2,430.10. The Local Public Agency Amendment #1 (BLR 05311) will need to be executed to utilize those funds. The City will front fund engineering costs and will be reimbursed 90% of the costs.

There are two drafts under review by IDOT. If the forms are amended by IDOT or CBLRS (Central Office), the mayor and City clerk will execute the most current forms.

IDOT requires a Resolution to Appropriate the MFT Funds prior to their expenditure for approved projects. The resolution amount is higher than the anticipated City’s share in order to cover front funding the Engineering cost.

Funding for this project is available in account 203-4060-431.79-99 (CIP GB136).

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the execution of a Phase 2 Design Engineering Supplement with Stanley Consultants, Inc. in the not to exceed amount of $37,646.00 and the appropriation of $80,000.00 of REBUILD Illinois Bond Funds for the Indian Trail Signal – Edgelawn to Highland Project.

City government of Aurora documents show this is a Resolution to approve the above referenced Engineering Services Supplement and to appropriate REBUILD Illinois Bond funds by Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Resolution.

The project has secured federal funding to cover up to 80% of Construction and Construction Engineering costs. The funding sources include Surface Transportation Program – Local (STU) and Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ). A total of $3,800,000.00 in federal funds has been secured for Construction and Construction Engineering on the project.

The project involves modernizing the signalized intersections along Indian Trail between Edgelawn Dr and Highland Ave. Modernization includes replacement of all aging signal equipment, widening of curb radii to meet design vehicle requirement, and improving pedestrian facilities to meet ADA compliance. The intersections will feature new signal heads with 4-face flashing yellow turn arrows, which are in use on Orchard Road and are proposed in other upcoming projects throughout the City. Additionally, the existing roadway and 8-10 foot wide bike path will be resurfaced as part of this project. Additional general information and exhibits can be found on the project website (https://www.aurora-il.org/2365/Indian-Trl-from-Edgelawn-Dr-to-Highland-).

The City is continuing work with their selected design consultant, Stanley Engineering, on final design plans under a previous City agreement. The plans are 99% complete and the “Initial Final” Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E) were submitted to IDOT on November 27, 2023. The project is likely targeting a September 2024 IDOT letting, pending final land acquisition certification and railroad agreement approval.

The original agreement with Stanley Engineering was in the amount of $392,257.00 (R22-245). Supplement #1 for this project was previously processed at staff member level in November 2023 in the amount of $38,462.00.

During final design, Stanley Engineering and their consultants completed a number of work items not identified in the original Phase 2 agreement. At this time it is required to process a Supplement #2 as well to cover items not identified in Supplement #1. General reasons for the supplement include items that have changed due to project delays, changes per IDOT review comments, and changes requested by the City due to an influx of federal funds to include more work on this project. Further detail is below:

Supplement #1 was previously processed in the amount of $38,462.00. Changes include:

• ADA Modifications
• Traffic Signal Changes
• Street Lighting required by IDOT
• Additional bike path scope requested by the City
• Additional submittals due to delays
• Changed some design elements required from land acquisition negotiations

The Scope of Work for Supplement #2 and the agreement is in the amount of $37,646.00. Changes include:

• Utility design changes
• Clarifying scope of Land acquisition to get IDOT approval
• More soil sampling due to the delay (research/testing has expired)
• Additional submittals and project management

The original consultant selection followed the Request for Qualifications process and is not subject to the local preference policy. The funding source, REBUILD Illinois Bond Funds, is not subject to the local preference policy.

The REBUILD Illinois Bond Fund is a grant program using proceeds from general obligation (transportation, series A) bonds authorized in the REBUILD Illinois capital program to provide Local Agencies with the funds for transportation improvement projects. The City has received 13,042,322.82 in total over a 3 year period. The funds can only be used on bridge and major highway projects that provide an average useful life of greater than or equal to 13 years.

IDOT requires a Resolution to appropriate the REBUILD Illinois Bond Funds prior to their expenditure for approved projects.

Funding for this project is available in account 202-4020-418.76-39 (GC083, Indian Trail Signal – Edgelawn to Highland).

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the future execution of Phase 3 Construction Engineering Services Supplement with HR Green, Inc. in the not to exceed amount of $100,000.00 and the appropriation of $1,540,000.00 of REBUILD Illinois Bond Funds for the Indian Trail Road Reconstruction and High Street Intersection Project.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to approve an amount for the Phase 3 Construction Engineering Services Supplement with HR Green, Inc so an agreement can be executed in the future, and to appropriate additional REBUILD Illinois Bond Funds by Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Resolution for Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Section Number 06-00260-02-PV.

The Indian Trail Road Reconstruction and High Street Intersection Project has been under construction since the fall of 2023. The project involves improving the Indian Trail corridor by widening four lanes to five lanes to bring conformity to the corridor. Work will include completing traffic signal plans for the intersection of Indian Trail & High Street (previously stop controlled) and traffic signal modernization plans for the intersection of Indian Trail & Church Road. The intersections will be provided with ADA compliant ramps and Detectable Warnings. The improvements will also include a 5-6 feet wide sidewalk, 8-10 feet wide asphalt bike path and high visibility crosswalk for safe pedestrian/bicyclists crossing. There will be path connections to an existing regional trail (Illinois Prairie Path (Aurora Branch)) at High Street, plus a connection to the existing shared use path on Indian Trail constructed in Stage 1 of the project. Construction is roughly 20% complete. City officials are anticipating that construction will finish in the spring or summer of 2025.

The project has secured federal funds ranging in percentages from 75% to 100%. The funding sources include Surface Transportation Program – Local (STU), Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) Funds. The HSIP funds are for the improvement of the Indian Trail at High Street intersection and other funds for the rest of the corridor. A total of $6,481,446.00 in federal funds has been secured for the Construction and Construction Engineering on this project.

In August 2022, the City issued a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for Phase III Construction engineering services per IDOT’s qualification based selection (QBS) procurement requirement. HR Green Inc. was selected as the Phase III Construction engineer and an agreement was approved in the amount of $855,739.00 in February 2023 (R23-043). During IDOT review/approval of the agreement, IDOT required that the agreement be processed on their newer forms and utilizing recent HR Green data. Those changes increased the amount of the approved/executed agreement to $903,897.00 with the same scope/hours.

The local share for this project has been REBUILD Illinois Bond Funds, which is a grant program using proceeds from general obligation (transportation, series A) bonds authorized in the REBUILD Illinois capital program to provide Local Agencies with the funds for transportation improvement projects. The City has received all the funds, $13,042,322.82 in total, over a 3 year period from 2020-2022. The funds can only be used on bridge and major highway projects that provide an average useful life of greater than or equal to 13 years.

The QBS followed the Request for Qualifications process and is not subject to the local preference policy. The funding source, federal and REBUILD Illinois Bond Funds, are not subject to the local preference policy.

Since this project was last presented to City Council over a year ago, there have been a number of cost increases. At the time of agreement approval in February 2023, the estimated total cost of the Construction (C) was approximately $7,353,000.00 for an early 2023 letting. The letting was delayed until June 2023 (which increased cost) and low bid amount was above estimate. The low bidder’s (R.W. Dunteman) bid was $8,148,713.00.

Furthermore, since construction began there have been a number of increases and the final construction value could come in close to $8.8 Million. The addition of water main replacement cost is the most substantial cost, but below is a list of construction overages anticipated:

-Water Main Replacement – Approximately 1,500 ft. of water main will be replaced due to it being shallower in the ground than anticipated.

-Storm Sewer – Field adjustments/modifications were made to some of the proposed storm sewer pipe runs due to utility conflicts.

-Combination Mast Arms – Shown in the plans correctly but quantities were incorrect in the contract.

-APS Pedestrian Push Buttons – Updated Federal Standards now require pedestrian push buttons at signalized intersections to be APS (Accessible Pedestrian Signal) ped push buttons.

-LED Luminaires – Increase for the City’s particular brand of LED’s for the street lighting.

-Other minor field changes that have been cataloged to date.

Additionally there has been more engineering effort required due to this increased scope of work and other issues. See below for a list of additional engineering effort required.

-Utility conflict coordination with multiple facilities including ComEd, AT&T, Nicor, WOW, Verizon, Comcast, Aurora, Metronet & Zayo.

-Facilitating field changes to avoid utility conflicts and ultimately keep the project moving forward.

-Maintenance of Traffic modifications including the addition of the Church Road detour.

-Water Main replacement field observation.

-Water Main permitting assistance.

-Tracking of contractor change orders.

Based on current progress City officials are estimating that the construction engineering budget will require a supplement to cover additional full time inspection totaling approximately $100,000. There is no agreement available at this time; a supplement will be processed at a later date once confirming the need for it and once it’s determine if more federal funds were obtained. The total amount of HR Green’s agreement with the supplement would be $1,003,897.00 ($100,000 more than the IDOT approved amount).

The purpose of this City Council action is to approve additional expenditures to the amount of construction and construction engineering anticipated. IDOT requires a Resolution to appropriate the REBUILD Illinois Bond Funds prior to their expenditure for approved projects.

The amount listed above is a worst case scenario. City staff members have already worked with the Kane-Kendall Council of Mayors (KKCOM) to request federal funding. Staff members were told that additional funding is possible, but not immediately. Essentially more construction work needs to be completed so already obligated funds are expended. Sometime this fall, staff members will re-engage with KKCOM about requesting additional federal funding. At the time of initial City Council action, the approximate total cost of C&CE (City’s Share) was anticipated to be $1,728,462.00. If enough additional federal funding is obtained, the C&CE City Share for this project could be under $2 Million.

The 2024 City Budget provides $3,540,000 in Account 202-4060-431.79-99 (GB099, E. Indian Trail – Mitchell to Farnsworth #2). Additional funding will be budgeted in 2025 if required.

Construction is underway. Construction will primarily take place under traffic, with traffic in each direction reduced from two lanes to one lane. Intermittent lane closures may occur during certain work activities. On May 10, 2024 the north leg of Church Road was closed and a detour posted. The detour should be in place for approximately 2 weeks, possibly more depending on the weather.

•Consent was given to a Resolution Authorizing the remediation of asbestos for City-owned properties at 22 W. Park Place and 817 Forest Avenue.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to ensure proper and safe remediation of asbestos & lead for City-owned properties at 22 W. Park Place & 817 Forest Avenue.

Site one on the City’s near East side, 22 W. Park Place was purchased by the City in 2008. The parcel is directly adjacent to other City-owned property and directly northwest of McCarty Park. Site two (2) sits on the grounds of Garfield Park, the property has been owned by the City since 1920. The structures at both locations have historically been used as a residential dwellings; however, various repairs are required to bring them into compliance with residential building codes. While exploring potential uses for both of the properties, City ordered site assessments revealed the presence of asbestos & lead. Regardless of the final use of the properties, remediation is necessary.

Midwest Environmental Consulting Services, Inc. of Yorkville, provides remediation services which the City has used for past for remediation projects at other City-owned properties. The City contracted with Midwest to develop Bid 24-028 which was advertised and closed on April 10th. Based on bids received, the projects shall not exceed $85,000, which includes: project design, contractor bidding, contractor fees, project management, and air quality testing.

Base on results of bid 24-028 staff members are recommending remediation by Nationwide Environmental & Demo LLC for site one (22 W Park Place) and Midway Contracting Group LLC for site two (817 Forest Av). Funding for this project is an approved decision package in the 2024 budget and allocated in account: 601-4440-451.38-05 & 101-4440-451.38-05.

Not remediating asbestos and lead will be prohibitive to any future use of the property and the structure will continue to sit vacant and continue to deteriorate.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing the execution of a Phase 3 Construction Engineering Agreement with Ardmore Roderick in the not to exceed amount of $181,368.00 for the 2024 City Wide Resurfacing Projects.

City government of Aurora documents show this engineering agreement will provide construction inspection and material testing services for the 2024 City Wide Resurfacing Projects.

The City plans to resurface 38.4 lane miles of streets for over $8.9 million across 2 Citywide Roadway Resurfacing projects. City staff members take the lead on construction observation and administering the project during construction. In order to oversee construction including inspections, work layout and fully document work, the City will require an experienced Resident Engineer to assist City staff members with this project. Material testing is required to document work in accordance with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) standards.

The City published a qualifications based selection (QBS) for the resident engineer services March 19, 2024. Eight firms submitted their statement of qualifications (SOQ). Staff members reviewed the SOQs and determined that Ardmore Roderick of Downers Grove, was the most qualified.

This followed the Request for Qualifications process and is not subject to the local preference policy.

The engineering services agreement from Ardmore Roderick provides an experienced full-time resident engineer for up to 1,300 hours and additional fees for a sub-consultant to provide Material Testing. Ardmore Roderick will assist the Engineering Department with construction supervision on the 2024 City Wide Resurfacing projects as detailed in the scope of services in an amount not to exceed $181,368.00. This agreement includes some additional hours to potentially cover inspections and material testing on other City-wide projects including the R.O.W. Improvement Program.

The 2024 City Budget has budgeted $181,368.00 in CIP GB097 / Account No. 340-4060-431.73-91 (Capital Improvements Fund) for these services.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing repair services for River Intake Pump #4 for the Water Production Division in an amount not to exceed of $55,203.00 to Layne Christensen Company, Aurora.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain City Council authorization for Layne Christensen Company (Layne), 721 W. Illinois Avenue, Aurora, to perform all necessary services as described in Layne’s proposal letter to return river intake pump #4 to full operational and functional status.

River intake pump #4 is one of six pumps used to supply Fox River water to the water treatment plant as a source of drinking water for the city. It is also one of two pumps equipped with variable frequency drive (VFD) control of flow rate, which provides operational flexibility for the pumping of river water. As with all mechanical equipment, the river intake pumps wear down and need periodic maintenance. Recently, issues with the pump’s normal operation were noticed by operations staff members which necessitated further inspection to determine possible causes of failure and required repairs. Under an initial purchase order 307454 $18,126.00, Layne provided pump removal and a comprehensive inspection of all pump assembly components. The scope of this project is based upon the findings and recommendations in the inspection report. This pump was last serviced in 2004, which is an exceptionally long in-service period for equipment pumping raw surface water.

The total estimated cost of all proposed and recently completed work by Layne to restore the subject pump to operational status is $55,203.00. A breakdown of the estimated costs is presented in Layne’s proposal letter, which includes the full pump inspection report of detailed findings and recommendations.

The City entered into a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with Layne in 2020 under Resolution No. R20-083, which provides a 5% discount on all labor and field services and a 10% discount on specialized services performed by Layne. Layne will perform all work on a time and material basis and will only be compensated for the actual work performed per the terms and conditions of the PSA. In addition, Layne is the sole regional factory authorized source for repair services of Flowserve-Byron Jackson pumps utilized by the Water Production Division.

Funds are available in the 2024 City Budget in Account No. 510-4058-511-38-01 and 510-4058-511-38-29.

The local vendor preference policy does not apply per Section 2-409 as this is a noncompetitive situation.

Unavailability of approximately 4000 gallons per minute of river pumping capacity if the repairs are not completed.

•Consent was given to a Resolution authorizing a contract with Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental to provide construction engineering services for various underground utility improvement projects during the 2024 construction season, in an amount not to exceed $177,000.00.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to execute a contract to allow Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental to provide services to supplement City staff members throughout the 2024 construction season. Personnel from Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental have successfully provided similar services in past. This proposal allows for a full time representative during 2024 and minimal surveying services consisting of construction layout and the preparation of record drawings as needed.

Due to the complex nature of underground utility construction, it is recommended that a representative of the City be on-site to review the construction procedures and ensure that the new utilities are installed in conformance with the design plans and specifications. The City published a request for qualifications that was advertised on September 24, 2023 and nine firms submitted statements of qualifications.

After review of the proposals by engineering division staff members, Trotter and Associates, Inc. was initially selected and awarded a contract with City Council approval in late 2023. Unfortunately, the resident engineer proposed is no longer available and a comparable replacement was not able to be provided. Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental submitted the second rated proposal during the process and this contract will take the place of the previously approved contract with Trotter and Associates, Inc. No funds were spent on the previous contract and this replacement contract is approximately half of the value with the delayed start. Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental was asked to submit a draft agreement for review and approval. The agreement includes on-site inspection during construction as well as surveying services consisting of construction layout and the preparation of record drawings as needed. The selected firm will provide these services as needed; no services will be provided when the engineering division can provide staff members for projects adequately.

Request for qualifications are not subject to the local preference policy.

Having on-site representation during construction is a benefit to the community due to the assurance that the construction is completed properly. These services are provided for in the 2024 budget in accounts 281-1856-512-73-09 ($60,000.00 for this contract, $3,000,000 requested in 2024 budget, B031), 510-4063-511-73-14 ($60,000.00 for this contract, $2,500,000 requested in 2024 budget, IB018) and 510-4058-511-73-02 ($57,000.00 for this contract, $5,000,000 requested in 2024 budget, IC076).

This contract will have no impact on the general public; however, the projects that will be inspected will impact traffic in various ways while underway. Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental will also monitor traffic control standards as a part of the daily reporting.

•Consent was given to a Resolution to award the Lebanon Street and Pearl Street Sewer Separation project in Wards 3 and 4 to Benchmark Construction Co Inc. in the bid amount of $988,000.00.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to install a new storm sewer removing stormwater from the combined sewer system at several locations on Lebanon Street and Pearl Street.

A new storm sewer will be installed to remove surface drainage flows from the combined sewer system. This project should 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. Six conforming bids were received, publicly opened and read aloud on May 1, 2024.

This project was subject to the local preference ordinance, however no local contractors submitted.

Portions of the project are accounted for within three 2024 budgets. $488,798 within account 510-4058-511-73-02 (IC080, $3,000,000.00 Lead Water Service Line Replacement), and $499,202 within account 281-1856-512-73-09 (B031, $3,000,000.00 LTCP Improvements – 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.

•Consent was given to a motion authorizing and directing the Human Resources chief officer to execute a settlement agreement on behalf of the City in Worker’s Compensation Claim #186510671.

•Final approval for items on the Committee of the Whole consent agenda are set to be made at the May 28 Aurora City Council meeting.

•Placed on Unfinished Business is a Resolution authorizing the acceptance of bid pricing from various contractors for landscape and mowing maintenance for multiple park locations for a One Year Contract with Two Optional One Year Extensions upon mutual consent.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain City Council approval to accept bids for a 1 year contract with optional two 1 year extensions upon mutual consent from contractors for various landscape maintenance for City owned properties under the care of Parks.

There are a number of locations consisting of Legacy Parks, Mini Parks, open spaces and other city owned lots that the City is responsible for ongoing maintenance. This type of mowing & landscape maintenance has previously been provided by private contractors. In order to enhance the level of service from previous years, contracting outside services is necessary to augment City crews.

The City solicited bids for “Parks Mowing & Landscape Maintenance” for City Legacy park locations (Bid 24-014) and “Citywide Mowing of Mini Parks & Open Spaces” (Bid 24-039) received bids from eight companies. After checking references and receiving favorable responses, the following contractors highlighted on the bid tabulation are being recommended:

Aplus AJ Landscaping Aurora.

Advanced Landscaping, West Chicago.

Beary Landscaping, Lockport.

Yellowstone Landscape, Plainfield.

Funding for utilizing the Landscape Maintenance & mowing services of these contractors is appropriated to cover these expenditures in the following accounts: 101-4440-451-36-15, 101-4440-451-38-34. The total amount actually spent each year is weather dependent.

This bid was subject to the local preference ordinance.

•Placed on Unfinished Business is a Resolution authorizing the Renewal of the Line of Credit (LOC) in the amount of $10 million with Old Second National Bank for a one-year term expiring on June 30, 2025.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to approve the renewal of the $10 million Line of Credit (LOC) with Old Second Bank for one year.

The City initially approved LOCs with Old Second Bank and Fifth Third Bank in 2019 for $10.0 million. The City has used the LOC’s to provide short-term financing for the City contributions to various land acquisition and economic development projects when bond financing is not practical. Staff members anticipate that there will be additional need for short term financing of economic development projects in the future and the LOC’s provide a practical and cost effective vehicle for those needs. The City makes periodic payments on the LOC’s as appropriate when developer payments are received as well as when long term bonds are issued.

The line of credit (LOC) taken through Fifth Third Bank was paid off during calendar year 2023. The LOC through Old Second is the only LOC that the City has outstanding. The LOC was renewed during July of 2023 and that renewal allowed for a subsequent one-year extension of the LOC until June 30, 2025.

There have been no draws on the LOC since the last renewal and the outstanding balance on the Old Second LOC is $6,688,000. The LOC will continue to be reduced by payments from future bond issuances and repayments of development costs from developers from various economic redevelopment costs initially financed by the City.

The rate for the renewed LOC will continue to be based on the 30-day Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) + 200 basis points (2%). SOFR is a published rate and is a common replacement for LIBOR in loans moving forward in the past few years. SOFR represents the overnight rate that financial institutions charge each other for overnight loans. The rate generated for the renewed LOC (if calculated today) is 7.32% due to the recent increases in interest rates.

Approval of this resolution will renew this ongoing line of credit through Old Second National Bank, which is necessary for the City’s continued economic development project financing when bond financing is not immediately practical.

•Placed on Unfinished Business is a Resolution authorizing and directing the filing of a written protest to Kane County with respect to the Special Use Petition filed by RPIL Solar 10, LLC for a Community Solar Facility along the west side of Barnes Road, north of the BNSF RR in Sugar Grove Township.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose for this resolution is to formally object to the Special Use for a Community Solar Facility along the west side of Barnes Road and north of the BNSF RR, in unincorporated Kane County, within the City of Aurora’s Planning Jurisdiction, including contiguous to Aurora’s City Limits.

The Property is vacant land along the west side of Barnes Road and north of the BNSF RR in unincorporated Kane County. This is zoned F-Farming in Kane County.

The Petitioner, RPIL Solar 10, LLC is requesting approval of a Special Use. The Special Use Permit is to allow the development of an approximately 4.99 MW (AC) ground-mounted distributed generation Community Solar Facility on 40.78 acres. The development will not construct a substation, as it is proposed to interconnect into existing distribution facilities paralleling Barnes Road.

Staff members reviewed the Kane County Special Use Petition submitted by RPIL Solar 10, LLC.

This area on the far west section of Aurora is part of the Countryside Vision Plan, which is a sub-area plan of Aurora, passed by the City Council in 2002. The Plan was a collaboration with many partners including Planning and Zoning staff members, the Aurora Planning Commission, Kane County Development Department, Kane County Forest Preserve, Kane County Department of Environmental Management, and the Conservation Foundation among others.

The Plan attempted to meet the challenge of the community’s evolving awareness on environmental issues, and a desire to find development strategies that forge a new direction. By looking at the land first and using creativity in development to achieve an innovative living environment in harmony with nature.

This resulted in a Countryside Land Use Plan for this area generally west of Orchard Road. This incorporated Countryside Residential Area along with Open Space, Transportation and Roadway Network Design, Stormwater Management, along with Countryside Landscaping and Natural Elements.

The Countryside Residential Areas were divided into neighborhoods and were to be developed with lot sizes, street configurations, and site designs that have historically not been available within the City of Aurora. These were to be estate residential areas, and the City amended it’s Zoning Ordinance to facilitate Estate Zoning District subdivisions. Among the subdivisions that have been designed under these unique guidelines include Verona Ridge, Tanglewood Oaks, Ingham Park, and The Linden Estates.

The Property is designated within the Countryside Vision Plan as one of these Countryside Neighborhoods in Nature. In addition, the City of Aurora has invested in public utilities along Barnes Road to facilitate development of this property. The Proposed Project therefore is not in keeping with the Plan for the area nor the trend and character of the surrounding and proposed land uses. This area is specifically planned for Estate Residential type development, similar to what has developed in Aurora in the aforementioned subdivisions. Due to a boundary agreement with Sugar Grove, Aurora has limited land available to facilitate this type of residential development. As stated to the Petitioner in January, the City wishes this property to eventually be developed for quality residential development, and as such, would not support the solar farm use in this particular location. While the City supports solar uses, staff members feel a different site that is not in the path of development would be more suitable.

Therefore, staff members are not in support of the special use petition for a community solar facility and it does not meet the City’s Countryside Vision Plan and the City’s Physical Development Policies.

Policies and guidelines:

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

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

22.1(1) To achieve appropriate zoning protection for residential areas designated in the land use plan.

71.1(4) To locate utilities and structures so there is compatibility with existing or planned developments and sensitivity to the protection of natural resources.

City staff members recommend the Resolution authorizing and directing the filing of a written protest to Kane County with respect to the Special Use Petition filed by RPIL Solar 10, LLC, for a Community Solar Facility on 40.78 acres along the west side of Barnes Road and north of the BNSF RR in Sugar Grove Township.

•Placed on Unfinished Business is an Ordinance amending the annual budget for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2023 and Ending December 31, 2023 (Amendment #2 For The 2023 Fiscal Year).

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to obtain the City Council’s approval of a proposed amendment to the 2023 City Budget.

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

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

The City Council approved a previous amendment to the 2023 City Budget on May 9, 2023.

The proposed ordinance would provide for certain changes in the 2023 City Budget. Below is an explanation for each change. The item numbers below correspond to each change.

Items 1 and 19 through 21: CDBG COVID Program (Offsetting Revenues and Expenditures Increases Totaling $146,600). These items adjust the budget for the COVID-19 CDBG funding allocation to the City.

Items 2 and 24 through 30: Block Grant Fund (Offsetting Revenues and Expenditures Increases Totaling $1,075,500). These items adjust the budget for the actual annual CDBG Program allocation to the city. At the time the 2023 budget was prepared, City officials did not have final allocation information. The amounts included in the original 2023 budget reflected only an estimate of the allocation.

Items 3 and 34: Transfer from 2008B TIF Bond Proj TIF 3 Fund to TIF # 3 Fund ($1,679,400). These items provide resources for the final projects in TIF # 3.

Items 4 and 31: Economic Development, TIF # 4 Bell Gale Fund (Offsetting Revenue and Expenditure Increase of $3,400). This item provides for the payment of redevelopment costs for the Bell Gale project for which the developer qualified for reimbursement under Resolution No. R12-239. Adequate fund balance was available in the fund to cover the costs.

Items 5 and 13: Transfer from General Fund to Capital Improvements Fund ($22,000,000). These items provide resources to the Capital Improvements fund to cover capital projects.

Items 6 and 7; 35 through 42: 2023 General Obligation Bond Fund (Increase Revenue of $34,157,200 and Expenditure Increase of 2,987,700). These items adjust the budget to account for the 2023A GO bonds the city issued for various capital improvement projects. Debt Service Fund interest payment $764,000.

Items 8 and 14: Transfer from General Fund to Debt Service Fund ($5,500,000). These items provide resources for the payment of principal and interest.

Items 9 and 11: Transfer from General Fund to Property and Casualty Fund ($5,500,000). These items provide resources to the Property and Casualty Fund to cover the accrued costs associated with property and casualty insurance claims.

Items 10 and 12: Transfer from the General Fund to the Employee Compensated Benefits Fund ($2,000,000). These items provide resources to the Employee Compensated Benefits Fund to cover the accrued costs of severance and sick leave.

Item 15: Repairs & Mtce. Services/Computer-Network, Information Technology, General Fund (Expenditure Increase of $240,000). This item provides resources for the camera services true-up.

Item 16: Special Programs/Other, Economic Development, General Fund (Expenditure Increase of $1,100,000). This item provides for funding of the economic development agreement with La Quinta De Los Reyes.

Items 17 and 18: Repairs & Mtce. Services Other, Wireless 911 Surcharge Fund (Expenditure Increase of $176,000). This item provides $16,000 for resources to pay for Getac devices going into the new fire trucks and provided $160,000 for completion of the PSAP remodel.

Item 22: Professional Fees/Consulting, Economic Development, Gaming Tax Fund (Expenditure Increase of $128,700). This item provides for TIF consulting work completed in 2023.

Item 23: Expendable Tools and Supplies, Foreign Fire Insurance Tax Fund (Expenditure Increase of $47,000). This item provides for the payment of costs for a trailer mounted portable air filling station for SBCA cylinders. Adequate fund balance was available in the fund to cover the additional costs.

Items 32 and 33: Capital Outlay Machine and Equip, Police ARPA Fund (Expenditure Increases Totaling $221,200). This item serves to adjust the budget for the STEAM Academy in the amount of $11,000 and police equipment $210,200.

Items 43 and 44: Other Services & Charges, Water Billing, Water and Sewer Fund (Expenditure increase of $118,000). This item provides for bank service fees and credit card fees.

Items 45 through 48: Property & Casualty Fund – Liability Insurance and Workers Compensation Claims (Expenditure Increase Totaling $3,869,000). This item serves to adjust the budget for the payment of costs associated with general liability claims that were higher than expected during 2023. Adequate monies were available in the fund for the claims.

Item 49: Employee Health Insurance Fund (Expenditure Increasing Totaling $984,000). The increase is due to the number of employees moving to the high deductible plan.

Item 50: Employee Compensation Benefits Fund (Expenditure Increasing Totaling $1,212,000). This item serves to adjust the budget for the accrual of costs associated with employee severance, especially for firefighters and police officers, which were higher than expected during 2023. Adequate monies were available in the fund for the accrual of the costs.

If the proposed budget amendment is approved, budgeted expenditures in the 2023 budget will increase from $601,916,053 to $651,668,553.

•Placed on Unfinished Business is a Resolution transferring the finish line grant program (FLG) and Allocated Funds to Invest Aurora to provide incentives for the recruitment, expansion, and upgraded building stock to businesses throughout the City of Aurora.

City government of Aurora documents show the Resolution authorizes the transfer of marketing and administration responsibilities of the Finish Line Grant Program to Invest Aurora to increase business start-up, recruitment, and expansion, as well as the upgrade to building stock throughout the City of Aurora.

Established in 2015 the Finish Line Grant Program has historically helped to enhance the economic vitality of Downtown Aurora. Originally administered through Invest Aurora, the program was transferred to MOED in 2022 however, given the mission of Invest Aurora, which includes data collection and marketing responsibilities, it was determined that this transfer will provide for a more efficient management of the program.

Upon transfer of the Finish Line Grant Program to the City of Aurora’s Mayor’s Office of Economic Development in 2022, Invest Aurora’s contractual compensation was reduced by $90,000. This reduction resulted in the elimination of a full-time position to oversee Invest Aurora’s Financial Services Program. Responsibilities for the remaining Financial Programs administered through Invest Aurora were transferred to the remaining staff members to the detriment of other critical services.

Upon completion of the 2023 FLG Program, staff members from both MOED and Invest Aurora began a thorough review of all program parameters as well as its administrative structures to ensure that the program best reflect the City economic development goals, and the business community’s needs.

There is $375,000 of funding that was approved for 2024 that will be made available as of June 1, 2024; an additional $90,000 will also be made available to Invest Aurora to oversee Invest Aurora’s Financial Services Program.

As a result of this careful review, it is recommended that the FLG program be transferred back to Invest Aurora as well as the allocated FLG budget.

In addition to the transfer of administrative responsibilities to Invest Aurora several significant improvements are recommended to better meet the needs of the City of Aurora and its business community.

•Placed on Unfinished Business is a Resolution establishing the maximum number of licenses for tattoo and body art establishments in the City of Aurora in accordance with Chapter 25, Article XI “Tattoo and Body Art Establishments”.

City government of Aurora documents show the purpose is to update the number of available licenses for tattoo and body art establishments.

In 2023, the City Council approved substantive changes to Chapter 25, Article XI “Tattoo and Body Art Establishments”. The changes included the ability for new businesses to open using the 1/2-mile distance buffer between any new tattoo establishments consistent with the city code. This buffer is also used with alternative financial institutions, tobacco/alternative nicotine and cannabis dispensaries.

At the time of the changes, the Council determined that the number of licenses would be increased as applications came in due to low demand. Revenue and Collections has a complete application for a new establishment. This resolution seeks to increase the number of available licenses from four to five.

This change will allow a new Tattoo and Body Art establishment to open in Aurora.