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Village of Oswego Village President and Board of Trustees met March 18

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Village of Oswego | Village of Oswego, Illinois / Facebook

Village of Oswego | Village of Oswego, Illinois / Facebook

Village of Oswego Village President and Board of Trustees met March 18.

Here are the minutes provided by the board:

CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

President Ryan Kauffman called the meeting to order at 7:28 p.m. Dustin Dunn led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.

Before he led with the pledge, President Kauffman stated the following:

Dustin Dunn will be leading us in tonight’s Pledge of Allegiance. Dustin was raised in Galesburg, IL and graduated high school in 2001. That July he left for Marine Corp boot camp in San Diego. He was at boot camp when 9/11 occurred and was not allowed to watch TV at the time but could get a newspaper on Sunday, and that is how he found out what had happened. After graduating boot camp, Dustin attended the school of infantry in Camp Pendleton, CA. Once that was finished, he started college at North Central college where he wrestled, played football, continued his Marine Corp reserve duties and met his future wife, Jennifer. In 2004, Dustin’s unit was activated and went back to Camp Pendleton for combat training and was then deployed to Iraq for 9 months until 2005. His area of operation was referred to as the “triangle of death” and was just south of Baghdad. After he returned, he transferred to NIU where he graduated and continued with the Marine Corp reserves until his contract was finished in 2007. Dustin has lived in Oswego, for the past seven years, with his wife and their two sons Dominick (9) and Bentley (5).

Board Members Physically Present: President Ryan Kauffman; Trustees Tom Guist, Kit Kuhrt, Karin McCarthy-Lange, Karen Novy, Jennifer Jones Sinnott, and Andrew Torres.

Staff Physically Present: Dan Di Santo, Village Administrator; Jean Bueche, Asst. Village Administrator; Tina Touchette, Village Clerk; Michael Barajas, Commander; Jennifer Hughes, Public Works Director; Andrea Lamberg, Finance Director; Rod Zenner, Development Services Director; Joe Renzetti, IT Director; Kevin Leighty, Economic Development Director; Madeline Upham, Management Analyst; Julie Hoffman, Events Manager; and Dave Silverman, Village Attorney.

RECOGNITIONS/APPOINTMENTS

D.1 Recognition - Assistant Public Works Director Mark Runyon

President Kauffman read the proclamation and presented him with a copy. Mark Runyon thanked his family, wife, Director Hughes, and Public Works staff; he’s looking forward to seeing where we go in the future; he briefly spoke about his history with the Village; he is retiring as the longest standing employee with the Village. Director Hughes thanked Mark for his service with Public Works and the Fire Department, and his coaching of children; Mark has seen incredible growth; incredible service to the community; we are indebted to you and wish you well. Pictures were taken.

D.2 Proclamation- National "First" Robotics Day

Students of the robotics team came forward. President Kauffman read the proclamation and presented them with a copy. The students provided a presentation and demonstration. It was noted that 80 kids work on the robotics team; both high schools are involved; more information on social media; please forward information to anyone who could benefit from this program. Pictures were taken.

D.3 Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce Hometown Expo Artist Award Recognitions President Kauffman recognized the artists and stated the following:

We have some very talented artists here at Village Hall. On your way in, you likely noticed the incredible works of art that adorn the walls of the Village Hall lobby. Recently, the Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the Annual Hometown Expo at Oswego High School and as part of the Expo, an art contest was curated by Karen Kulzer, President of the Fox River Academy of Music and Art. A total of thirty (30) students and adults were selected as the winners within their grade level and/or medium; many of whom are here tonight. He acknowledged Angie Hibben, President of the Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce. He invited Karen Kulzer and Angie Hibben up front to acknowledge the artists. Karen thanked everyone and having a partnership with the Chamber and Village. This is the 13th year doing the exhibition and competition and is open to the region. Angie noted that each year it gets better and better; encourage adults to submit art; thankful we had an event this year. Karen read off the names of the artists. Each artist came to the front to receive a certificate and have their pictures taken with her, Angie, and President Kauffman.

D.4 Business of the Month Recognition - Culver's of Oswego

John Witcpalek, Franchise Owner of Culver’s Kevin Leighty, Economic Development Director, and EDC Members were present for the recognition. Custard was provided to those in attendance.

President Kauffman read the recognition: I’d like to extend our congratulations to Culver’s of Oswego for being featured as the Economic Development Commission’s Business of the Month for March. Each month, the Economic Development Commissioners nominate and vote on a business to feature which has demonstrated significant involvement in the Oswego community. This month features Culver’s which is owned and operated by former long-term Oswego residents John and Beth Witcpalek. John and Beth have owned the franchise location in Oswego for nearly 24 years going back to when they built and opened it in June of 2000. Since that time, the Witzpalek’s have been considerably involved in the community. In addition to regularly holding fundraising events for the Oswegoland Senior Center, Culver’s has given back to the local schools through their regular Culver’s night fundraisers. During these nights, Culver’s gives back 10% of all sales to one of 15 rotating schools in District 308. Other civic events include sponsoring Oswego High School’s Athlete of the Week and Month, serving as a booster for the Oswego High School Band, and supporting various other High school related fundraisers. Congratulations to Culver’s of Oswego for being the March 2024 Business of the Month and thank you for all the contributions you have made to our community.

A certificate was presented and pictures were taken.

D.5 Proclamation- Earth Hour, March 23, 2024

President Kauffman read the proclamation.

D.6 Commission Appointments

Economic Development Commission

a) Appoint Bill Helgeson for a Term to Expire April 30, 2026

A motion was made by Trustee McCarthy-Lange and seconded by Trustee Torres to approve the Appointment of Bill Helgeson for a Term to Expire April 30, 2026.

Aye: Kit Kuhrt       Karin McCarthy-Lange

Karen Novy          Jennifer Jones Sinnott

Andrew Torres

Nay: None

Voted Present: Tom Guist

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with five (5) aye votes, zero (0) nay votes, and one (1) present vote.

b) Appoint Rachelle Koenig for a Term to Expire April 30, 2026

A motion was made by Trustee McCarthy-Lange and seconded by Trustee Torres to approve the Appointment of Rachelle Koenig for a Term to Expire April 30, 2026.

Aye: Kit Kuhrt       Karin McCarthy-Lange

Karen Novy          Jennifer Jones Sinnott

Andrew Torres

Nay: None

Voted Present: Tom Guist

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with five (5) aye votes, zero (0) nay votes, and one (1) present vote.

Cultural Arts Commission

a) Appoint Dana Madden Rickard for a Term to Expire April 30, 2027

A motion was made by Trustee McCarthy-Lange and seconded by Trustee Torres to approve the Appointment of Dana Madden Rickard for a Term to Expire April 30, 2027.

Aye: Kit Kuhrt       Karin McCarthy-Lange

Karen Novy          Jennifer Jones Sinnott

Andrew Torres

Nay: None

Voted Present: Tom Guist

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with five (5) aye votes, zero (0) nay votes, and one (1) present vote.

PUBLIC FORUM

Public Forum was opened at 8:15 p.m. There was no one else who requested to speak. The public forum was closed at 8:15 p.m.

STAFF REPORTS

Director Zenner- here ye, here ye; a public hearing will be held at the April 4, 2024 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting regarding the adoption of the UDO and rezoning of the entire Village; a notice was sent out regarding the same.

Director Lamberg- staff received the sales activity for December 2023; there was a 3.5% increase in sales in December; sales = $874,000; it is the highest sales tax received in the history of Oswego; last year it was $845,000.

This item was moved to Staff Reports from the March 18, 2024 Committee of the Whole Meeting: F.2 Consider Adding Student Members to Advisory Commissions

Administrator Di Santo addressed the Board regarding student members on commissions. Mayor Kauffman approached staff about finding ways to better involve Oswego’s youth in civics. As far back as 1999, the Village has looked into creating a Youth Commission, whose membership would be comprised of Oswego youth. The intent of a Youth Commission would be to plan events, programs, and services for Oswego’s youth and to raise awareness of the youth to charitable organizations in Oswego. When considered in 1999, 2007, and 2013, it is staff’s understanding that the Youth

Commission did not move forward due to concern over staff time, lack of a true need, and concern over the demand and value-added for the work involved. As an alternative, staff suggests considering establishing student representation on existing advisory commissions (Economic Development, Historic Preservation, and Cultural Arts). By adding student representatives to existing advisory commissions, there is little additional staff time needed, and there is no concern over lack of direction since the commissions already have well-established purposes. Student representatives would be non voting members, and their purpose would be to encourage civic responsibility and to provide hands-on learning experiences.

The City of Naperville has successfully had non-voting student members on advisory commissions since 2004. Requirements of their program include:

• Students must be residents.

• Students must attend 75% of scheduled meetings.

• Applications are open to high school students, with preference going to seniors and then juniors.

• Students are expected to actively participate, but do not vote or count for a quorum.

• There are 2 student appointees per advisory commission.

Staff does not recommend student representation on PZC, Board of Police Commissioners, or the Building Code of Appeals since they take statutory action and serve beyond an advisory role.

Board and staff discussion focused on a lot of effort for staff; back then there wasn’t a need; could participate as non-voting members and rotate out every year; getting them involved in civics; adding of students stems back to community survey where it said they don’t feel involved; benefits everybody; great idea to expand access; nominated by parent or teacher; open to all students and not just high performing students; open to juniors and seniors; restricted to residents of Oswego; EDC, HPC and Cultural Arts only; already have internship; how to orchestrate; staff time; will work with the high schools; filter applications once per year; deal with like any other members; relying on parents and teachers; should shadow first and then decide if interested; open it up to more students; get put on a list; what happens if they don’t like it and not come back; having both shadowing and non-voting; voting and approving applications; will have problems finding kids; whether it is different students per commission, or same kids who rotate; six students serving one year; getting involved in civic duty; what Naperville’s experience has been; has gone well for them; will put in stipulation about attendance; need to attend 75% of the meetings; determine criteria and then communicate with SD308; start at beginning of school year; draft regulations and bring back for Board review. Staff will talk to the schools and bring back to the Board. There was no further discussion.

There were no additional staff reports.

CONSENT AGENDA

G.1 March 5, 2024 Committee of the Whole Minutes

G.2 March 5, 2024 Regular Village Board Minutes

G.3 Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Two New 2023 Ford Utility Interceptor Squads from Stivers Ford Lincoln in Waukee, Iowa in the Amount Not to Exceed $98,730.00 and the Waiving of the Competitive Bidding Requirement.

G.4 Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Two New 2024 Ford Explorer XLT/AWD from Riverview Ford in Oswego, Illinois in the Amount Not to Exceed $88,610.00.

G.5 Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of a 2024 Chevrolet Equinox LT/AWD from Ron Westphal Chevrolet in Oswego, Illinois in the Amount Not to Exceed $28,504.03.

G.6 Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7 and Title 3 Chapter 31; Decrease Class A-3 Liquor and Video Gaming License for DMJ LLC d.b.a. Spin City Gaming Located at 2757 U.S. Highway 34. Pulled for separate discussion and vote.

G.7 Ordinance Allocating the 2023 Village of Oswego Volume Cap of $4,481,250 to Upper Illinois River Valley Development Authority (UIRVDA).

G.8 4050 Wolfs Crossing Liquor Licensing

a) Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7; Decrease Class B-1 Liquor License for Ganesh ARP LLC d.b.a. Wolf Food & Liquor Located at 4050 Wolfs Crossing.

b) Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7; Increase Class B-1 Liquor License for Jayshiv Inc d.b.a. Jays Food and Liquor Located at 4050 Wolfs Crossing.

G.9 Ordinance Amending Title 1 Chapter 3, Title 3 Chapter 7, Title 3 Chapter 19, Title 3 Chapter 31, Title 6 Chapter 2, Title 6 Chapter 14, Title 8 Chapter 8, and Title 9 Chapter 4 (Various Code Amendments).

G.10 Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Second Escrow Intergovernmental Agreement Between the Village of Montgomery, the Village of Oswego, the United City of Yorkville, and the DuPage Water Commission.

G.11 Ordinance Granting a Variance from Section 7.03 of the Zoning Code to Allow for Reduction to the Front Yard Setback from 30-feet to 29.93 Feet for 543 Sudbury Circle.

G.12 Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Certificate of Authority to Purchase 1,800 Tons of Bulk Rock Salt Through the State of Illinois CY2024-2025 Rock Salt Contract Joint Purchasing Agreement.

G.13 Resolution Authorizing a Professional Service Agreement with Clark Dietz, Inc. for an Arc Flash Assessment at Various Village Locations for an Amount Not to Exceed $92,300.00.

A motion was made by Trustee Jones Sinnott and seconded by Trustee Novy to approve the Consent Agenda; Approving the March 5, 2024 Committee of the Whole Minutes; Approving the March 5, 2024 Regular Village Board Minutes; and Approving the following ordinances and resolutions:

Ordinance No. 24-25; Ordinance Allocating the 2023 Village of Oswego Volume Cap of $4,481,250 to Upper Illinois River Valley Development Authority (UIRVDA).

Ordinance No. 24-26; Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7; Decrease Class B-1 Liquor License for Ganesh ARP LLC d.b.a. Wolf Food & Liquor Located at 4050 Wolfs Crossing. Ordinance No. 24-27; Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7; Increase Class B-1 Liquor License for Jayshiv Inc d.b.a. Jays Food and Liquor Located at 4050 Wolfs Crossing.

Ordinance No. 24-28; Ordinance Amending Title 1 Chapter 3, Title 3 Chapter 7, Title 3 Chapter 19, Title 3 Chapter 31, Title 6 Chapter 2, Title 6 Chapter 14, Title 8 Chapter 8, and Title 9 Chapter 4 (Various Code Amendments).

Ordinance No. 24-29; Ordinance Granting a Variance from Section 7.03 of the Zoning Code to Allow for Reduction to the Front Yard Setback from 30-feet to 29.93 Feet for 543 Sudbury Circle. Resolution No. 24-R-21; Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Two New 2023 Ford Utility Interceptor Squads from Stivers Ford Lincoln in Waukee, Iowa in the Amount Not to Exceed $98,730.00 and the Waiving of the Competitive Bidding Requirement.

Resolution No. 24-R-22; Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Two New 2024 Ford Explorer XLT/AWD from Riverview Ford in Oswego, Illinois in the Amount Not to Exceed $88,610.00. Resolution No. 24-R-23; Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of a 2024 Chevrolet Equinox LT/AWD from Ron Westphal Chevrolet in Oswego, Illinois in the Amount Not to Exceed $28,504.03.

Resolution No. 24-R-24; Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Second Escrow Intergovernmental Agreement Between the Village of Montgomery, the Village of Oswego, the United City of Yorkville, and the DuPage Water Commission.

Resolution No. 24-R-25; Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Certificate of Authority to Purchase 1,800 Tons of Bulk Rock Salt Through the State of Illinois CY2024-2025 Rock Salt Contract Joint Purchasing Agreement.

Resolution No. 24-R-26; Resolution Authorizing a Professional Service Agreement with Clark Dietz, Inc. for an Arc Flash Assessment at Various Village Locations for an Amount Not to Exceed $92,300.00.

Aye: Tom Guist                Kit Kuhrt

Karin McCarthy-Lange    Karen Novy

Jennifer Jones Sinnott     Andrew Torres

Nay: None

The motion was declared carried by an omnibus roll call vote with six (6) aye votes and zero (0) nay votes.

Pulled for separate discussion and vote:

G.6 Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7 and Title 3 Chapter 31; Decrease Class A-3 Liquor and Video Gaming License for DMJ LLC d.b.a. Spin City Gaming Located at 2757 U.S. Highway 34. Ordinance No. 24-22

Board and staff discussion focused on whether this business was part of the number when the Board approved the capping of gaming cafes; whether we are decreasing the total number of gaming cafes overall; would need to draft a code amendment to decrease the capped number; moot point since gaming cafes need to be more than one mile from other gaming cafes and all gaming licenses need Board approval; gaming café licenses are capped at 15; limited locations on where gaming cafes can be located. There was no further discussion.

A motion was made by Trustee McCarthy-Lange and seconded by Trustee Jones Sinnott to approve an Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7 and Title 3 Chapter 31; Decrease Class A-3 Liquor and Video Gaming License for DMJ LLC d.b.a. Spin City Gaming Located at 2757 U.S. Highway 34.

Aye: Tom Guist                Kit Kuhrt

Karin McCarthy-Lange    Karen Novy

Jennifer Jones Sinnott     Andrew Torres

Nay: None

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with six (6) aye votes and zero (0) nay votes.

BILL LIST

H.1 Approve Bill List Dated March 18, 2024, in the Amount of $3,807,523.56.

A motion was made by Trustee Jones Sinnott and seconded by Trustee Novy to approve the Bill List Dated March 18, 2024, in the Amount of $3,807,523.56.

Aye: Tom Guist                Kit Kuhrt

Karin McCarthy-Lange    Karen Novy

Jennifer Jones Sinnott     Andrew Torres

Nay: None

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with six (6) aye votes and zero (0) nay votes.

OLD BUSINESS

There was no old business.

NEW BUSINESS

J.1 Speedway LLC Liquor License Reclassification and Video Gaming License

Clerk Touchette addressed the Board regarding a liquor and gaming license for Speedway. At the March 5th COW meeting, Speedway presented their request for two of the remaining four gas station video gaming licenses for their locations at Rt 30 and at Rt 34. The ordinances drafted are for the re classification of the liquor license and the increase for video gaming licenses at both locations.

a) Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7 and Title 3 Chapter 31; Decrease Class F-1 Liquor, Increase Class B-2 Liquor License, and Increase Class B-2 Video Gaming License for Speedway LLC d.b.a. Speedway No. 1417 Located at 4032 U.S. Highway 34. Ordinance No. 24-30

A motion was made by Trustee Guist and seconded by Trustee Jones Sinnott to approve an Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7 and Title 3 Chapter 31; Decrease Class F-1 Liquor, Increase Class B-2 Liquor License, and Increase Class B-2 Video Gaming License for Speedway LLC d.b.a. Speedway No. 1417 Located at 4032 U.S. Highway 34.

Aye: Tom Guist                Kit Kuhrt

Karin McCarthy-Lange    Karen Novy

Jennifer Jones Sinnott     Andrew Torres

Nay: None

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with six (6) aye votes and zero (0) nay votes.

b) Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7 and Title 3 Chapter 31; Decrease Class F-1 Liquor, Increase Class B-2 Liquor License, and Increase Class B-2 Video Gaming License for Speedway LLC d.b.a. Speedway No. 2120 Located at 1830 U.S. Highway 30. Ordinance No. 24-31

A motion was made by Trustee Guist and seconded by Trustee Jones Sinnott to approve an Ordinance Amending Title 3 Chapter 7 and Title 3 Chapter 31; Decrease Class F-1 Liquor, Increase Class B-2 Liquor License, and Increase Class B-2 Video Gaming License for Speedway LLC d.b.a. Speedway No. 2120 Located at 1830 U.S. Highway 30.

Aye: Tom Guist                Kit Kuhrt

Karin McCarthy-Lange    Karen Novy

Jennifer Jones Sinnott     Andrew Torres

Nay: None

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with six (6) aye votes and zero (0) nay votes.

J.2 Ordinance Approving an Economic Incentive Agreement and a Loan Agreement by and between the Village of Oswego, Nash Vegas Saloon, LLC and AHB 345 Enterprises, LLC (61 Main Street). Ordinance No. 24-32

Director Leighty addressed the Board regarding incentive and loan agreement for Nash Vegas. The Revolving Loan Fund and Economic Development Incentive Award programs were established to provide financial assistance to new or expanding businesses within the Village of Oswego. The general purpose of the loan program is to secure public benefit for the residents of Oswego by developing a stronger economic base and expanding job opportunities. The purpose of the economic development incentive award program is to aid in property improvements which enhance Oswego’s downtown business district. The financial incentive application under consideration is for a new restaurant and entertainment venue planned to be called “Nash Vegas Saloon”. The business is being proposed in the former Oswego Brewing Company space at 61 Main Street which was vacated in September 2023. If granted their financial incentive request, the applicant plans to create a concept similar to “Saddle Up” in Aurora which offers food service, a full bar, live music, and line dancing.

The applicant is requesting $340,000 in loan funding and $40,000 in grant funding to help offset the high costs of lending and building materials in the current market. The requested incentive amount is based upon a total project budget of about $724,000. The scope of work includes costs for the design and construction of the space along with the purchase of all necessary equipment. The application submitted meets all the specific criteria of the RLF and grant programs. Such criteria met includes being a new business to Oswego, creating jobs, and using funding for the substantial rehabilitation of a downtown building. Additionally, the total amount of funding requested does not exceed 50% of project costs. Supporting documentation has been reviewed and the amount requested is less than the eligible amount to be loaned under the program limits. The loan will feature a 3% interest rate on the outstanding balance with a repayment term of 10 years. The monthly payment will be approximately $3,283 per month for 120 months. The loan is supported by equipment as collateral and a personal guarantee.

Board, staff, and representative discussion focused on have done four downtown grants since 2018; grant started as a façade improvement grant; revolving loan goes back to 1985 with funds coming from the State; loaning out funds with interest; revolving loan started at $150,000 and has grown to $450,000; grown because of interest and investments; have issued eight revolving loans and have not had a default on the loans; both loans to Nash Vegas are match based; have to make improvements before giving grant funds; substantial improvements needed; staff has reviewed the paperwork and recommended approval; loan will collect $50,000 in interest; business will contribute $100,000 in sales; $3 million in economic activity in the downtown; equipment is collateral; personal guarantee; façade program changed to grant program around 2014-2018; first time the applicant has done this type of concept; lives in the community; country is a big hit and would be a cool concept; likes what Oswego is doing; will be open from Wednesday- Sunday for lunch and dinner; whether there is a concern with noise; will have insultation in the building to dampen the noise; soundproofing; supply chain is getting better; want to take their time to do it right; paying off early if possible; revolving loan is not coming from tax payer money; allows businesses to be more accessible to the community; parking will be left as is; may expand in the future; Nashville style food; BBQ, burgers, hot chicken; occupancy in mid-June; struggling with giving both a grant and loan; should look at the grant and loan program going forward; not having to use taxpayer money; flexibility and return rate; 3% is the traditional number over the years; keep grant and loan programs as is now and change in the future; Tap House did a grant and loan back in 2020; not giving the $40,000 grant; either tax incentive or loan; could be losing our grocery tax; need to be creative; doing 1%; purpose is to reinvest into downtown properties; TIF increment goes back to the Village when building is improved; there is interest in our loans for new and existing businesses; in our best interest to keep this going; in December, Director Leighty embarked in a campaign to attract businesses. There was no further discussion.

A motion was made by Trustee Jones Sinnott and seconded by Trustee Torres to approve an Ordinance Approving an Economic Incentive Agreement and a Loan Agreement by and between the Village of Oswego, Nash Vegas Saloon, LLC and AHB 345 Enterprises, LLC (61 Main Street).

Aye: Tom Guist                Kit Kuhrt

Karin McCarthy-Lange    Karen Novy

Jennifer Jones Sinnott     Andrew Torres

Nay: None

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with six (6) aye votes and zero (0) nay votes.

J.3 Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Real Estate Donation Agreement for the Southwest Corner of Wolfs Crossing & Devoe (Fire Station 5). Resolution No. 24-R-27

Administrator Di Santo addressed the Board regarding land donation to the Fire District. In 2022, the Village of Oswego acquired land for the widening of Wolfs Crossing and the associated storm water conveyance. The amount of land needed in front of 500 and 460 Wolfs Crossing would have brought the new roadway too close to the existing residential homes, and as such the homeowners favored the Village acquiring their entire properties rather than a portion. The Village was left owning approximately 1-acre of property between these two addresses than was necessary for the project. During 2022, the Village met with the Fire District, who indicated that a fifth fire station was needed near the Wolfs Crossing and Harvey Road intersection. The two sides began discussing an acquisition. once the Fire District determined that the size, layout, and location of the excess property was sufficient to construct a fire station. In 2023, the Village offered to donate the land to the Fire District.

The Village and the Fire District prepared a real estate donation agreement for consideration by the Village Board. Key excerpts from the agreement are as follows:

• The property will have easement rights to drain storm water into the Village’s detention basin immediately east of the subject property.

• The Fire District shall have a 180-day Feasibility Period to physically inspect the property before accepting the donation.

• Closing shall take place 30 days after expiration of the Feasibility Period, or at a mutually agreeable date.

As some of the subject property was previously designated as right-of-way, staff will return with a future agenda item to vacate the excess right-of-way prior to closing.

Board and staff discussion focused on Fire District is thankful and have approved on their end; unknown what homes will be serviced by the new station; a lot of homes will be serviced because of the growth.

A motion was made by Trustee Kuhrt and seconded by Trustee McCarthy-Lange to approve a Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Real Estate Donation Agreement for the Southwest Corner of Wolfs Crossing & Devoe (Fire Station 5).

Aye: Tom Guist                Kit Kuhrt

Karin McCarthy-Lange    Karen Novy

Jennifer Jones Sinnott     Andrew Torres

Nay: None

The motion was declared carried by a roll call vote with six (6) aye votes and zero (0) nay votes.

TRUSTEE REPORTS

Trustee Kuhrt- congratulations to Mark Runyon.

Trustee Novy- congratulations to Mark Runyon on his retirement; great budget meeting; very informative; vote tomorrow.

Trustee Jones Sinnott- kudos to Mark Runyon; known him for over 20 years; wonderful asset; Happy Birthday to Tina Touchette (they sang happy birthday to her).

Trustee Guist- congratulations to Administrator Di Santo for his appointment to the Chamber of Commerce; congratulations to the artists; congratulations to the robotics team; very impressed with them; need to revisit the grant and loan programs; don’t think the intent for grants is this way; more discussion is needed on the programs and anyone else who agrees should let President Kauffman or staff know.

Trustee Torres- congratulations to Mark Runyon; robotics team presentation was amazing; art was not this big when we were little; Nash Vegas is exciting.

Trustee McCarthy-Lange- good stuff at the meeting; congratulations to Mark Runyon; welcome to new commission members; congratulations to the artists, Culver’s and the robotics team; fun to see their presentation; they are going to Nationals; budget was four hours of fun; impressed with Director Lamberg for her hard work; M/I Homes had their grand opening; so many people there; twelve home contracts were scheduled for Friday; welcome to Nash Vegas; remember to vote tomorrow.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

M/I Homes grand opening was packed; Oswego is growing and thriving; congratulations to Mark Runyon; thank you for the robotics team’s presentation; saw their workshop; they are impressive and organized; don’t have to be in high school to be involved. He asked that staff put the grant and loan discussion on a future Committee of the Whole agenda for discussion. Hope everyone had a great St. Patrick’s Day.

CLOSED SESSION

There was no closed session business.

ADJOURNMENT

A motion was made by Trustee McCarthy-Lange and seconded by Trustee Novy to adjourn the meeting; upon a voice vote with all remaining members present voting aye, the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m.

https://www.oswegoil.org/home/showpublisheddocument/6768

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