Evanston public meetings in 2022

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Evanston Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets on December 29, 2022 at 1:00 PM via Google Meet. The agenda includes approval of draft minutes from the 12/12/2022 meeting and a closed session for firefighter interviews. No other new business items are listed. The meeting notice also includes an accessibility accommodation statement.

• Approval of draft meeting minutes from the 12/12/2022 meeting
• Closed session for firefighter interviews
• Meeting held via Google Meet at meet.google.com/qap-xdqp-vkq at 1:00 PM

Liquor Control Review Board

The Evanston Liquor Control Review Board meets Dec. 19, 2022 to consider three new liquor license requests and a proposed City Code amendment. The board will also approve minutes from its Sept. 8, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes public comment and electronic participation rules.

• Hokkaido Ramen at 812 Church Street, #18 requests a Class D (Restaurant) license
• STFTFR, LLC d/b/a Fonda at 1735 Benson Avenue requests a Class D (Restaurant) license
• Hilton Management, LLC d/b/a Hilton Orrington at 1710 Orrington Avenue requests a Class C (Hotel or Restaurant) license
• Proposed amendment to Section 3-4-6 of the City Code to add an F-3 Retailer Liquor License (XX-O-23)
• Approval of regular meeting minutes of September 8, 2022

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Evanston Equity and Empowerment Commission is introducing an Equity Scorecard, a tool to evaluate projects, policies, and practices through an equity lens. The agenda describes how city project leaders and the commission would use the scorecard, including a 10-question review and a final recommendation vote. The document is an introduction and blank form; no specific projects, votes, or dollar amounts are listed.

• Equity Scorecard to be used for City Council referrals on new projects, ordinances, housing, zoning, budget allocations, subsidies, and tax abatements
• Project leaders complete a Project Information section and submit to [email protected]
• Commission assigns three members to independently review each scorecard
• 10 criteria include stakeholder engagement, root causes, adverse impacts, accessibility, and success indicators
• Final recommendation options: Strongly Support, Support with Modifications, Neutral / More Information Needed, Do Not Support

Finance and Budget Committee

The Evanston Finance and Budget Committee meets Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at 6:00 PM to approve its November 8, 2022 minutes and hold discussions. Discussion items include the 2023 committee calendar, the FY 2023 committee work plan, and general obligation (GO) bonds for capital improvement projects. The attached November 8 minutes show the committee previously discussed the 2023 budget, pension funding, and capital project funding.

• Discussion of GO Bonds for CIP Projects (capital improvement projects)
• Approval of November 8, 2022 Finance & Budget Committee minutes
• 2023 Finance & Budget Committee Calendar (FY23 Calendar)
• FY 2023 Finance & Budget Committee Work Plan covering financial updates, long-term financial modeling, pension analysis, debt planning, and capital planning
• November 8 minutes note a revised 2023 budget with an overall reduction of approximately $2 million from the original proposal and a $40 million increase from the 2022 budget

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council meets virtually on December 13, 2022, to vote on changes to its Special Project Fund guidelines and its Cultural Fund grant process, including a new 2023 application and judging matrix. It will also discuss a website project and hear an update on the Noyes Cultural Center. The agenda includes approval of the November 8, 2022 meeting minutes and public comment.

• Approval of changes to Special Project Fund guidelines, adding a rule that applicants may not receive funding for the same project funded in previous years
• Approval of Cultural Fund Grant changes, including allowing applicants to request up to $5,000 for specific programs or general programming and a new 1-15 point judging scale (max 45 points)
• Website project discussion: purchasing a URL and web hosting, pro-bono design, gathering 3 quotes for ongoing maintenance, and an annual budget line for maintenance
• Update on the Noyes Cultural Center
• Approval of the November 8, 2022 meeting minutes

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee is meeting to recommend how to spend an estimated $2,350,500 in 2023 federal CDBG, HOME, and ESG grants. Votes are scheduled on allocations by goal, a draft 2023 Action Plan, and specific CDBG-funded projects including housing rehabilitation, code enforcement, and alley and sidewalk work. The meeting is held virtually on Zoom.

• Housing Rehabilitation: $174,825 ($106,290 EN and $68,535 RL)
• Code Enforcement: $400,000
• Alley paving N. of Mulford Street, E. of Elmwood Avenue (9th Ward): $240,000
• Alley paving N. of Linden Place, E. of Custer Avenue (8th Ward): $220,000
• Sidewalk gap infill on Leland Avenue from Emerson St. to Wade St.: $120,000

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee meets Dec. 12, 2022 to consider three zoning items: eliminating a condition that ends Lakeside Auto Repair's nonconforming use if ownership changes at 3101 Central Street; major variations for multi-family residential use at 1453 Maple Avenue; and a special use permit for a convenience store at 321 Howard Street. The committee will also approve minutes from its Nov. 14, 2022 meeting. All three zoning items are for introduction, meaning the committee is advancing them for City Council consideration, not final adoption.

• Ordinance 125-O-22: eliminate condition terminating Lakeside Auto Repair's nonconforming use upon ownership change at 3101 Central Street
• Ordinance 126-O-22: major variations for adaptive use to multi-family residential in R6 district at 1453 Maple Avenue
• Ordinance 128-O-22: special use permit for a convenience store at 321 Howard Street in B3 Business District
• Approval of Nov. 14, 2022 meeting minutes

City Council

Evanston's City Council is set to vote on the 2023 Fiscal Year Budget of $395,069,008 and a 2022 property tax levy of $34,525,671, a 0.8% increase over 2021. It will also consider abating $5,193,858 in property taxes for debt service and transferring $2 million from the General Fund to the Reparations Fund. Several purchases and contracts, including a $295,604.65 street sweeper and $182,310.61 vehicle lift, are on the consent agenda. A police ordinance is being tabled to January 23, 2023.

• Ordinance 99-O-22: 2023 budget of $395,069,008
• Ordinance 100-O-22: 2022 tax levy of $34,525,671, up 0.8%
• Resolution 125-R-22: transfer $2 million from General Fund to Reparations Fund
• Ordinance 110-O-22 on police response tabled to January 23, 2023
• Purchase of Elgin Pelican street sweeper for $295,604.65

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Evanston Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets Monday, December 12, 2022 at 1:30 PM. The agenda lists approval of the December 6, 2022 regular meeting minutes and a closed session for police officer interviews. No other items for consideration are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from the 12/6/2022 regular meeting
• Closed session for police officer interviews
• Meeting accessible via Google Meet link

Administration & Public Works Committee

Evanston's Administration & Public Works Committee meets Dec. 12, 2022 to vote on a consent calendar of purchases, contracts, and land ordinances, plus two resolutions and a crosswalk discussion. Major items include a $21,813,890.77 bills list, $1,375,386 in FY2023 insurance renewals, and a $295,604.65 street sweeper. The committee will also consider selling vacated alley land near Central Park Avenue and Grant Street to four abutting owners.

• Payroll of $2,947,295.74, Bills List of $21,813,890.77, and credit card activity of $270,981.67
• FY2023 insurance renewals totaling $1,375,386 (Gallagher $1,183,266; Owens Group $192,120)
• Purchase of one Elgin Pelican street sweeper for $295,604.65 from Standard Equipment Company
• Change Order No. 2 with CDM Smith Inc. for lead service line work, adding $219,780 (contract to $1,409,587)
• Ordinances selling vacated public land east of Central Park Avenue and south of Grant Street to owners at 2229, 2235, 2245 Central Park Avenue and 2944 Grant Street

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The only substantive agenda item is a City Council Goal Planning Session; the rest of the agenda is procedural (roll call, public comment, call of the wards, adjournment). No ordinances, contracts, or dollar amounts appear in the agenda text.

• City Council Goal Planning Session listed under Items for Discussion
• Public comment period: 15 minutes if five or fewer speakers, otherwise 45 minutes total with a three-minute limit per speaker
• Meeting held at Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, 9:30 AM, with remote participation via Zoom and Cable Channel 16

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission meets remotely on December 9, 2022, with members and staff participating virtually under a state executive order. The agenda includes routine business such as approving November minutes and staff reports on utility reliability and water/sewer capital projects. The commission will also discuss unfinished items including PFAS in drinking water, low income solar grants, ComEd collaboration, and rooftop solar on city buildings, and take up new business on 2023 meeting logistics and city procurement issues.

• Election of UC chair and vice-chair for 2023
• 2023 UC meeting schedule
• Staff report on monthly utility reliability: electric outages, basement backups, water main breaks, service repairs
• Water & sewer fund capital improvement project status
• Unfinished business: PFAS in drinking water, Low Income Solar Grant, CARP Implementation, ComEd collaboration, rooftop solar on city buildings

Board of Ethics

The Evanston Board of Ethics meets Thursday, December 8, 2022 at 1:00 PM at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, Room 2404. The agenda covers public comment, approval of minutes from the May 11, 2022 regular meeting, and motions on whether to keep previous closed-session minutes confidential. The meeting may go into closed session to review those minutes for continued confidentiality.

• Approval of the Minutes of the May 11, 2022 Regular Meeting
• Motion for closed session to review previous closed session minutes for continued confidentiality
• Motion(s) on whether to continue confidentiality of previous closed session minutes
• Public comment can be submitted in advance or by phone/video via the City Clerk's online form or 847-448-4311

Referrals Committee

The Evanston, IL Referrals Committee meets Thursday, December 8, 2022 at 8:30 AM. The agenda includes approval of the November 10, 2022 minutes and review and scheduling of referrals made to date, with members selecting which to prioritize. The attached November 10 minutes show the committee approved three referrals (Lines 58, 59, and 60) by 3-0 recorded votes, sending them to MWEBE and APW.

• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date, with committee members selecting which to prioritize
• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of November 10, 2022
• Nov 10 minutes: Line 58 referred to MWEBE to be heard before the end of 2022 (approved 3-0)
• Nov 10 minutes: Line 59 referred to APW to be discussed before the end of the first quarter of 2023 (approved 3-0)
• Nov 10 minutes: Line 60 referred to APW to be heard as soon as possible (approved 3-0)

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee meets Dec. 8, 2022 to hear input from the Mental Health Task Force and decide whether to keep or change its mental health provider funding recommendation to City Council. At City Council's direction, the committee's recommendation will go to the Dec. 12 Council meeting. The meeting is held remotely, and residents cannot comment in person but may submit written comments or sign up to speak by phone or video. The agenda also lists FY 2023 Case Management and Safety Net application hearings and a staff report.

• Discussion and vote on whether to maintain or modify the mental health providers funding recommendation to City Council, funded from the Human Services Fund (account 176.21.4651.XXXXX)
• Public comment from the Mental Health Task Force, which submitted a Dec. 2, 2022 letter
• FY 2023 Case Management and Safety Net application hearings for 18 listed applicants, including Connections, Family Focus, Meals at Home, PEER Services, and YWCA Evanston North Shore
• Staff report including Q3 report summaries and a memo on draft 2023 SSC meeting dates
• Approval of Nov. 10, 2022 meeting minutes

Citizen Police Review Commission

The Citizen Police Review Commission meets Dec. 7, 2022 to vote on whether the internal investigation of Complaint Register #22-01 was complete, thorough, objective and fair. The complaint, filed April 14, 2022, alleges an officer was disrespectful and sided with CTA staff during a March 24, 2022 call at the Davis Street train station. The commission may also convene into executive session to discuss personnel. The meeting is held remotely under Mayor Daniel Biss' order suspending in-person attendance requirements.

• Vote on whether the internal investigation of Complaint Register #22-01 was complete, thorough, objective and fair
• Complaint alleges an officer was disrespectful, failed to investigate correctly, and sided with CTA management at the Davis Street train station on March 24, 2022
• Patrol Sergeant, Patrol Commander and Deputy Chief each recommended no further action, finding the officer did not violate Rules 1, 2, 18 and 20
• Possible motion to convene into executive session under 5 ILCS 120/2a to discuss personnel
• Approval of the Nov. 2, 2022 regular meeting minutes

Preservation Commission

The Preservation Commission is meeting to consider adopting Preserve 2040, a long-range work plan that would replace the 1981 Preservation Plan and guide the city's historic preservation program for the next 20 years. The commission will also vote on its 2023 meeting schedule and approve minutes from its November 8, 2022 meeting. Staff will give updates on the Legacy Business Program, a Downtown Heritage Resource Survey, and a Heritage Resource Design Manual. The commission will discuss nominating 2023 officers, with elections planned for January.

• Vote on adopting Preserve 2040 Long-Range Work Plan, which would supersede the 1981 Preservation Plan
• Vote on 2023 meeting schedule: second Tuesday of each month with an August recess
• Approval of November 8, 2022 meeting minutes
• Staff updates on Legacy Business Program, Downtown Heritage Resource Survey, and Heritage Resource Design Manual
• Discussion of 2023 officer nominations, with elections in January

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at 1:00 PM. The agenda lists approval of revised minutes from the 10/13 and 11/28 regular meetings, a closed session for police officer candidate interviews, and new business. No specific contracts, ordinances, or dollar amounts appear on the agenda.

• Closed session for police officer candidate interviews
• Approval of minutes of regular meetings revised 10/13 and 11/28
• New business listed with no items specified
• Meeting accessible via Google Meet link; accommodation requests through Human Resources Division 48 hours in advance

Human Services Committee

Evanston's Human Services Committee meets Dec. 5, 2022 to consider two ordinances: a $0.15 tax on carryout single-use bags (Ordinance 114-O-22) and a prohibition on cashless establishments (Ordinance 124-O-22), both recommended by Councilmember Reid to be forwarded to City Council. The committee will also receive updates on the Margarita Inn special use application and review the Evanston Police Complaints and Comments Report. The agenda also includes approval of November 7, 2022 meeting minutes and public comment.

• Ordinance 114-O-22: $0.15 tax per carryout single-use bag; retailer keeps $0.05, $0.07 to Solid Waste Fund, $0.03 to Health Department; plastic bag ban and 40% recycled paper bag requirement start April 1, 2024
• Ordinance 124-O-22: creates Title 12 'Consumer Protections' Chapter 1, prohibiting cashless establishments in Evanston
• Update on Margarita Inn application for a Special Use, Rooming House License, and Operating Agreement (accept and place on file)
• Review of Evanston Police Complaints and Comments Report (accept and place on file)
• Approval of minutes from the November 7, 2022 regular meeting

Rules Committee

Evanston's Rules Committee meets Dec. 5, 2022 to review its 2023 meeting schedule, consider a resolution adding councilmembers to the Referrals Committee, and discuss a proposed small-donor campaign matching fund for mayoral elections. The matching fund draft suggests allocating about $69,000, one-fortieth of a percent of the annual budget. The Referrals Committee resolution was tabled at the Oct. 3, 2022 meeting.

• Proposed 2023 Rules Committee schedule: first Monday of every other month at 5:00 p.m.
• Resolution 108-R-22 would expand the Referrals Committee from two to four Councilmembers, plus the Mayor as chair
• Draft ordinance for an Evanston Small Donor Democracy Matching System for Fair Elections, covering mayoral elections
• Proposed matching fund allocation of approximately $69,000, described as one-fortieth of a percent of Evanston's annual budget
• Approval of minutes from the Oct. 3, 2022 Rules Committee meeting

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee meets Dec. 1, 2022 to discuss an update on the Graduated Real Estate Transfer Tax to the Reparations Fund, review the 2019 Equity & Empowerment Commission reparations recommendations, and decide whether to accept the single proposal received for RFQ 22-58 (Housing Services Provider for the Restorative Housing Reparations program) or reissue it. The committee will also vote on its 2023 meeting calendar and accept the December 2022 donation report. The agenda is mostly discussion items; the only action items are the 2023 calendar and the donation report.

• Discussion of Graduated Real Estate Transfer Tax revenue to the Reparations Fund; staff says the Finance Department cannot currently separate revenues for properties over $1.5 million
• Review of 2019 Equity & Empowerment Commission reparations recommendations on wealth and opportunity gaps (housing, economic development, livability)
• RFQ 22-58: committee to discuss accepting the one proposal received to administer the Restorative Housing Reparations program or reissuing the RFQ
• For action: approval of the 2023 Reparations Committee meeting calendar
• For action: accept and place on file the December 2022 Reparations Financial Donation Report

Economic Development Committee

Evanston's Economic Development Committee meets Nov. 30, 2022 to discuss Ordinance 114-O-22, which would create a $0.15 tax on carryout single-use bags and ban plastic point-of-sale and produce bags starting April 1, 2024. The committee will also consider three requests for financial assistance to local businesses and a recommendation to buy Meridian vehicle barriers for special events. Several items are listed 'For Action,' meaning the committee may vote to recommend them to the City Council.

• Ordinance 114-O-22: $0.15 tax per carryout single-use bag; retailer keeps $0.05, $0.07 goes to Solid Waste Fund, $0.03 to Health Department enforcement; plastic bag ban and 40% recycled-content paper bag rule start April 1, 2024
• C & W Market and Ice Cream Parlor, LLC seeks $634,250 to acquire and renovate 1901 Church Street
• Whole & Free Foods seeks $550,000 for leasehold improvements to the Every Body Eats kitchen at 2021 Autobarn Place
• Bookends & Beginnings seeks a $475,605 grant for relocation and leasehold improvements at 1620 Orrington Avenue
• Recommendation to City Council to purchase Meridian Archer 1200 Vehicle Barriers for special event support

City Council

Evanston's City Council is set to introduce a $390,574,677 budget for fiscal year 2023 and a series of 2022 property tax levy ordinances. The levies include $34,525,671 for general operations and pensions (up 0.8%), $1,340,206 for General Assistance (no increase), and $7,768,528 for the Evanston Public Library (up 3.9%). The agenda also includes a resolution to transfer $2 million from the General Fund to the Reparations Fund, a kennel planned development at 2222-2310 Oakton Street, and several contracts and code amendments. The Planning & Development Committee meeting was canceled.

• Ordinance 99-O-22: 2023 budget of $390,574,677 for introduction
• Ordinance 100-O-22: 2022 tax levy of $34,525,671, up 0.8% over 2021
• Ordinance 102-O-22: Evanston Public Library levy of $7,768,528, up 3.9%
• Resolution 125-R-22: transfer $2 million from General Fund to Reparations Fund
• Ordinance 111-O-22: kennel special use at 2222-2310 Oakton Street with reduced parking (16 spaces vs. 25 required)

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Evanston Public Safety Civil Service Commission is scheduled to meet virtually on November 28, 2022. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the October 13, 2022 meeting and a closed session to discuss civil service commission questions for entry level police officer and firefighter paramedic hiring. No specific decisions, contracts, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Closed session on civil service questions for entry level police officer and firefighter paramedic
• Approval of minutes from the October 13, 2022 meeting
• Virtual meeting held via Google Meet

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee is meeting to act on routine city business, including payroll and bills, a parking garage management contract, and a truck purchase. It will also consider resolutions and ordinances on truck traffic near Evanston Lumber, truck prohibitions on certain 8th ward streets, and disposal of abandoned vehicles. Most items are on the consent calendar or for introduction, with no major policy debates listed.

• Payroll of $2,859,810.69 and Bills List of $3,628,193.62 for approval
• One-year contract with SP+ Municipal Services for three city-owned parking garages at $578,506, with a requested full waiver from M/W/EBE participation goals
• Purchase of a Ford F550 Hook-Lift truck from LINDCO Equipment Sales for $216,072 to replace a 1999 International 7400LP
• Resolution 119-R-22 to notify police traffic enforcement about incoming delivery trucks to Evanston Lumber
• Ordinance 108-O-22 to prohibit trucks on certain streets in the 8th ward

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council meets in a special session on November 21, 2022 to take up the 2023 budget and a set of property tax levy ordinances. The proposed 2023 Fiscal Year Budget totals $390,574,677, down from the $402,510,693 originally proposed in October. Council will also consider tax levies for general operations, the library, General Assistance, and several Special Service Areas, plus ordinances changing sanitation, water, and sewer rates. An executive session on personnel matters is also listed.

• Ordinance 99-O-22: 2023 Fiscal Year Budget of $390,574,677, for introduction (tabled Nov. 7 and Nov. 14)
• Ordinance 100-O-22: 2022 tax levy of $34,525,671 as extended, a 0.8% increase over the 2021 levy of $34,243,983
• Ordinance 102-O-22: Evanston Public Library levy of $7,768,528 as extended, a 3.9% increase over 2021
• Ordinance 121-O-22: would raise water charges by 5% and change how residents qualify for the affordable water rate
• Ordinance 116-O-22: revises sanitation service charges in City Code Section 8-4-11

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Evanston Equity and Empowerment Commission is introducing the Evanston Equity Scorecard, a tool for evaluating projects, policies, and practices through an equity lens. The document describes how the scorecard will be used, including review by three commission members and a final recommendation approved by a vote of the commission. The agenda text is the scorecard document itself and does not record any decisions, votes, or dollar amounts from the meeting.

• Equity Scorecard to be used for City Council referrals on new projects, ordinances, housing, zoning, budget allocations, public subsidies, and tax abatements
• Three EEC members assigned to independently review each scorecard
• Final scorecard recommendation approved by a vote of the EEC
• Ten criteria include stakeholder engagement, root causes, adverse impacts, accessibility, and success indicators
• Final recommendation options range from Strongly Support to Do Not Support

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee meets Nov. 15, 2022 to vote on renewing $50,000 for Community Partners for Affordable Housing to run the city's Inclusionary Housing Ordinance waitlist through 2023. Members will also discuss a Small/Medium Landlord Assistance Program, a $66,735 landlord-tenant services contract, and 2023 planning priorities. A vice-chair nomination and staff report round out the agenda.

• $50,000 renewal for Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH) to administer the IHO waitlist, up from $43,000, funded by the Affordable Housing Fund (250.21.5465.65496)
• Discussion and vote on the Small/Medium Landlord Assistance Program
• Not-to-exceed $66,735 renewal contract with Metropolitan Tenants Organization and Lawyers' Committee for Better Housing for landlord-tenant services
• 2023 Planning: Needs and Priorities discussion
• Vice-chair nomination and vote

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee is considering three ordinances: a special use for a planned development and kennel at 2222-2310 Oakton Street, zoning relief for Underwriters Laboratories signage at 1603 Orrington Avenue, and a major adjustment to a planned development at 1012-18 Church Street. The Oakton Street item would allow a new 8,810-square-foot animal shelter with 16 parking spaces instead of the required 25, and a substandard loading berth. The committee will also approve minutes from October 24, 2022, and hear public comment.

• Ordinance 111-O-22: Special use for a planned development and kennel at 2222-2310 Oakton Street, including site development allowances for 16 parking spaces (25 required) and a short open loading berth
• Ordinance 119-O-22: Zoning relief for Underwriters Laboratories (UL) signage at 1603 Orrington Avenue in the D3 Downtown Retail Core District
• Ordinance 113-O-22: Major adjustment to the planned development at 1012-18 Church Street previously authorized by Ordinance 114-O-19
• Approval of minutes from the October 24, 2022 regular meeting
• Public comment period available by written submission or sign-up

Administration & Public Works Committee

Evanston's Administration & Public Works Committee meets Nov. 14, 2022 to vote on a consent calendar of contracts and purchases, then take up resolutions and ordinances. Key items include a 5% increase in water charges, revised sanitation service charges, and a new three-way stop at Florence Avenue and Washington Street. The committee will also discuss a resolution on delivery trucks to Evanston Lumber and hear a status update on the Evanston Shoreline Repairs project.

• Ordinance 121-O-22 would raise water charges by 5% and change how residents qualify for the affordable water rate
• Ordinance 122-O-22 would establish a three-way stop at Florence Avenue and Washington Street
• Purchase of a 2024 Mack Truck from Lindco Equipment Sales for $246,452 for the Water Division workforce development program
• Sole-source purchase from Kompan Inc. for Raymond Park playground equipment at $34,040.08
• Change Order No. 1 with SmithGroup, Inc. for Evanston Shoreline Repairs adds $43,520, raising the contract to $376,520

City Council

Evanston City Council is meeting to discuss the proposed 2023 Capital Improvement Program and introduce the 2023 budget and several property tax levy ordinances. The proposed 2023 Fiscal Year Budget is $400,269,519, and the main tax levy totals $34,525,671, a 0.8% increase over 2021. The council will also consider a consent agenda covering contracts, purchases, and resolutions, including a settlement in Mack v. City of Evanston.

• Ordinance 99-O-22: 2023 budget of $400,269,519
• Ordinance 100-O-22: 2022 tax levy of $34,525,671, up 0.8%
• Ordinance 102-O-22: library levy of $7,768,528, up 3.9%
• Purchase of 2024 Mack Truck for $246,452 using ARPA funds
• Resolution 118-R-22: settlement in Mack v. City of Evanston

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee meets Thursday, November 10, 2022 at 8:30 AM. The agenda covers approval of the October 27 minutes and review and scheduling of referrals, in which committee members review the list of referrals made to date and select those to be prioritized for scheduling. The attached October 27 minutes show the committee voted to refer items identified only as Lines 53-57 to APW or Rules for discussion by the end of 2022 or the first quarter of 2023. The agenda does not identify the subject matter of those referral lines.

• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of October 27, 2022
• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date, with committee members selecting which to prioritize
• Oct 27 minutes: Line 53 referred to APW for discussion by the end of 2022 (approved 3-0)
• Oct 27 minutes: Line 54 referred to APW for discussion by the end of 2022 (approved 3-0)
• Oct 27 minutes: Line 55 referred to APW by the first quarter of 2023; Line 57 referred to Rules by the first quarter of 2023 (each approved 3-0)

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee is meeting virtually to recommend mental health service providers and a program budget for Evanston residents referred by case managers and City staff, funded from the Human Services Fund. The committee will also vote on allocating $190,000 and $60,400 in CARES Act (CDBG-CV) funds for COVID-19 food, shelter, and health staffing needs. Members will also approve the September 22, 2022 meeting minutes and elect a Chair and Vice Chair.

• Recommend approval of mental health service provider(s) and program budget for FY2023-FY2024, with staff proposing $150,000 for individual/family counseling and $200,000 for group sessions
• Allocate $190,000 in CARES Act (CDBG-CV) funds for food, cleaning services, and appliances at congregate shelters
• Allocate $60,400 in CARES Act (CDBG-CV) funds for health staff responding to COVID-19
• Approval of September 22, 2022 meeting minutes
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair

Finance and Budget Committee

The Finance and Budget Committee meets on November 8, 2022, with the main agenda item being a discussion of the 2023 Budget. The agenda also includes public comment and approval of the October 11, 2022 minutes. The attached October 11 minutes show the committee reviewed and placed on file the FY 2021 Single Audit and discussed the 2023 Budget, including a proposed increase in the General Fund reserve policy from 16.66% to 20% through 2024.

• 2023 Budget Discussion
• Approval of October 11, 2022 Finance & Budget Committee minutes
• October 11 minutes: Single Audit for FY 2021 reviewed and placed on file
• October 11 minutes: staff recommended increasing General Fund fund balance reserve policy from 16.66% to 20% through 2024
• October 11 minutes: Councilmember Kelly wanted a property tax levy increase only if it funds additional pension obligation

Preservation Commission

The Evanston Preservation Commission will decide on Certificates of Appropriateness for three residential projects in historic districts: a rear addition at 1215 Judson Avenue, extensive alterations at 1404 Asbury Avenue, and fenestration changes at 2211 Sherman Avenue. The meeting also includes approval of October minutes, a staff update on the Legacy Business Pilot Program, and discussion of the Preserve 2040 long-range plan with no vote. The 1215 Judson item was continued from the October 11 meeting after the applicant revised plans to address commission concerns.

• 1215 Judson Avenue: single-story rear addition and open deck; continued from Oct. 11; applicant Studio Talo Architects
• 1404 Asbury Avenue: remove rear mudroom addition and chimney, alter fenestration, enclose porch, build new entry, deck, patio, and stone walls; applicant Shumaker Design + Build Associates
• 2211 Sherman Avenue: alter east, north, and south fenestration, remove rear covered entryway, add overhead canopy above new wood deck; applicant Foster Dale Architects
• Approval of October 11, 2022 meeting minutes
• Staff update on Legacy Business Pilot Program; discussion of Preserve 2040 long-range plan (no vote)

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council meets virtually on November 8, 2022 to consider three Special Project Grant applications, each requesting $1,000, and to discuss proposed revisions to Cultural Fund Guidelines. The agenda also covers a website project, an update on Noyes Cultural Center, and a proposal to distribute $2,000 from the Evanston Chamber of Commerce to BIPOC artists. Several items are discussion-only, and the attached October 11 minutes show one prior grant application was not approved.

• Special Project Grant requests of $1,000 each from Scott Westerman (@ben.volio), Music Institute of Chicago (Third Coast Suzuki Strings), and Julie Cowan ("artruckish")
• Proposed revisions to Cultural Fund Guidelines (discussion only)
• Proposal to award $1,000 each to the two highest-scoring BIPOC-led 2023 Cultural Fund Grant applicants, using $2,000 from the Evanston Chamber of Commerce
• Appointment of James Deeb as liaison to Public Art; Chicago Sculpture International leasing at Twiggs Park
• Reparations Youth Art Competition deadline moved to January 9, 2023; Bright Night for the Arts on November 19 at Studio5

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council meets Nov. 7, 2022 for a special meeting that includes a Truth in Taxation public hearing on the proposed 2022 property tax levy and introduction of the 2023 budget ordinance. Staff recommends adopting a 2023 fiscal year budget of $400,269,519, down from the $402,510,693 proposed in October. The council will also introduce several 2022 tax levy ordinances and consider abating $5,193,858 in debt service property taxes, plus discuss the 2023 Capital Improvement Program.

• Ordinance 99-O-22: 2023 Fiscal Year Budget of $400,269,519, revised down by $2,241,174 from the October proposal
• Ordinance 100-O-22: 2022 tax levy of $34,525,671, a 0.8% increase over the 2021 levy of $34,243,983
• Ordinance 102-O-22: Evanston Public Library levy of $7,768,528, a 3.9% increase; Library Board expected to vote Nov. 16
• Resolutions 90-R-22 through 105-R-22: abate $5,193,858 in 2022 property taxes for general obligation bond debt service
• Discussion of the 2023 Capital Improvement Program

Human Services Committee

Evanston's Human Services Committee meets Nov. 7, 2022 to vote on several ordinances and items. Members will consider changes to rules for shelters for the temporarily homeless, a new Miranda warning requirement, food sanitation code updates, and a public nudity/urinating ordinance. The committee will also review 2023 meeting dates, an Arts Council presentation, and a police complaints report.

• Ordinance 65-O-22 modifying Title 8, Chapter 17 'Shelters for the Temporarily Homeless'
• Ordinance 87-O-22 adding Subsection 9-1-4-2 'Miranda Warnings to Be Issued'
• Ordinance 115-O-22 amending Title 8, Chapter 6 'Food Service and Retail Food Store Sanitation'
• Ordinance 118-O-22 amending Title 9, Chapter 5, Section 11 'Public Nudity; Urinating or Defecating in Public'
• Arts Council presentation including $100,000 secured for a south Fountain Square public art commission and a $100,000 NEA match application

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on Friday, November 4, 2022, at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The agenda consists of roll call, public comment, a call of the wards, a closed executive session, and adjournment. The executive session is cited under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(16) for self-evaluation, practices and procedures, or professional ethics, meeting with a representative of the Illinois Municipal League. No ordinances, contracts, rezonings, or other substantive votes appear on the agenda.

• Executive session under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(16) on self-evaluation, practices and procedures, or professional ethics with an Illinois Municipal League representative
• Public comment period with 15 minutes for five or fewer speakers, or 45 minutes total if more than five, with a three-minute limit per speaker
• Roll call listed for Councilmember Geracaris
• Call of the Wards under Council Rule 2.1(10)
• No ordinances, contracts, or public hearings listed on the agenda

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee meets virtually on November 3, 2022, to discuss funding sources for the Reparations Fund, including a proposal to designate a percentage of the Real Estate Transfer Tax on property sales over $1,500,000.01. Members will also review Home Rule Taxes and decide whether to accept the single proposal received for RFQ 22-58, a housing services provider for the Restorative Housing Program, or reissue the request. The agenda includes approval of October meeting minutes, a recap of the October 22 Town Hall, and acceptance of the November 2022 donation report.

• Proposal to designate a percentage of the Real Estate Transfer Tax on property sales over $1,500,000.01 to the Reparations Fund
• Discussion of Home Rule Taxes as potential funding sources
• Decision on whether to accept the one proposal received for RFQ 22-58 Housing Services Provider or reissue the RFQ
• Approval of minutes from the October 6, 2022 Committee meeting and October 22, 2022 Town Hall meeting
• Acceptance of the November 2022 Reparations Financial Donation Report

Citizen Police Review Commission

The Citizen Police Review Commission is meeting to vote on whether internal police investigations into three complaints were complete, thorough, objective and fair. The complaints involve a landlord-tenant dispute on the 2000 block of Ashland and two other cases identified only by number. The commission will also consider its 2023 meeting schedule and a proposed letter to the Police Chief about de-escalating contentious situations.

• Review of Complaint Register #21-04, a September 2021 landlord-tenant dispute on the 2000 block of Ashland; two officers were found to have violated department rules and recommended for reprimands and training
• Review of Complaint Register #21-06, with staff recommending the investigation be deemed complete, thorough, objective and fair
• Review of Department Inquiry #22-02, with the same staff recommendation
• Proposed 2023 CPRC meeting schedule up for approval
• Proposed letter of recommendation to the Police Chief on managing officer assignments to de-escalate contentious situations

Referrals Committee

The Evanston, IL Referrals Committee meets Thursday, October 27, 2022 at 8:30 AM. The main item is a review of the list of referrals made to date, with members selecting which ones to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda also includes public comment and approval of the October 13 minutes. The attached October 13 minutes show referrals routed to Administration and Public Works, Housing and Community Development, and the Parks and Recreation Board, but the agenda text does not identify the underlying subjects of those referrals.

• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date, selecting which to prioritize
• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of October 13
• Oct 13 minutes: Line 47 referred to Administration and Public Works, to be heard before the end of 2022
• Oct 13 minutes: Lines 48 and 49 referred to Housing and Community Development, to be heard before the end of 2022
• Oct 13 minutes: Line 51 referred to Parks and Recreation Board for discussion before the end of 2022

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee meets Oct. 26, 2022 to vote on two financial assistance requests and discuss a possible Special Service Area on Howard Street. The Rebuilding Exchange seeks a recommendation for $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to buy a warehouse at 626 Hartrey Avenue for a building trades training center. Soul & Smoke seeks $650,000 in Tax Increment Financing for its restaurant expansion at 1601 Payne. Staff also seek direction on a feasibility study for a Special Service Area along Howard Street.

• Rebuilding Exchange: $2M ARPA request toward a $2.7M project to buy and convert the 18,000 sq ft warehouse at 626 Hartrey Avenue into a building trades training center
• Soul & Smoke: $650,000 TIF request for restaurant expansion at 1601 Payne, funded on a reimbursement basis
• Discussion of a feasibility study for a Special Service Area covering Howard Street businesses
• Approval of draft minutes from the July 27 and September 28, 2022 meetings
• Monthly Real Estate Transfer Tax report for September 2022

City Council

Evanston's City Council meets Oct. 24, 2022, opening with a public hearing on the FY 2023 proposed budget. The consent agenda includes a $47,202,200 contract award for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement and $500,000 in ARPA funding for a Family Focus Welcoming Center. Council will also consider water treatment chemical contracts totaling $1,205,798 and a 3-year Groot Industries refuse franchise extension.

• Public hearing on FY 2023 Proposed Budget for the City of Evanston
• Contract award to Ballard Marine Construction, LLC for 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement (Bid 22-35) at $47,202,200, rescinding a prior award to IHC Construction Companies, LLC
• $500,000 in ARPA funding for Family Focus for a Welcoming Center
• Water treatment chemical contracts with Alexander Chemical ($735,078), Polydyne ($91,640), and Carus ($379,080) totaling $1,205,798
• 3-year contract extension with Groot Industries for residential refuse and yard waste franchises

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee meets Oct. 24, 2022 to discuss the West Evanston Master Plan and the oWE West Evanston Overlay District zoning rules and their effect on development in western Evanston and the Five-Fifths TIF area. Staff say the existing plan and overlay are outdated and create barriers to redevelopment, citing the Mt. Pisgah site at Church & Darrow. The item was tabled from the Oct. 10, 2022 meeting and is listed for discussion, not a vote. The agenda also includes approval of the Oct. 10, 2022 minutes.

• Discussion (D1) of the West Evanston Master Plan and oWE West Evanston Overlay District and its impact on current and future development
• Staff cite the Mt. Pisgah site at Church & Darrow as an example of redevelopment the current plan and zoning make problematic
• Staff memo lists examples including National Awards Building (1611 Church), ComEd Substation (1919 Church), Windy City Garden Center (2000 Green Bay Road), Y.O.U. (1911 Church), and 2044 Wesley
• Approval of the minutes of the Oct. 10, 2022 Planning & Development Committee meeting
• Item D1 was tabled to this meeting at the Oct. 10, 2022 P&D Committee meeting

Administration & Public Works Committee

Evanston's Administration & Public Works Committee meets Oct. 24, 2022 to vote on a consent calendar of contracts and spending, including a $47.2 million raw water intake replacement and $1.2 million in water treatment chemicals. The committee will also consider resolutions on private sewer repair cost-sharing, street maintenance fund transfers, and hiring participatory budgeting staff, plus two discussion items on dead tree removal and code enforcement complaint procedures.

• Rescind prior award to IHC Construction and award 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement (Bid 22-35) to Ballard Marine Construction, LLC for $47,202,200.00, contingent on IEPA loan funding
• Water treatment chemical contracts for FY2023 (Bid 22-54): Alexander Chemical $735,078.00, Polydyne $91,640.00, Carus $379,080.00 — total $1,205,798.00
• Three-year contract extension with Groot Industries for residential refuse and yard waste franchises
• Resolution 63-R-22 on City paying private sewer repair line costs exceeding $15,000 per residential property
• $500,000 in ARPA funding for Family Focus to create a Welcoming Center

Evanston Local Reparations Town Hall Meeting

Evanston is holding a Local Reparations Town Hall Meeting on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at 11:00 AM at Second Baptist Church, 1717 Benson Ave. The agenda lists a call to order, welcomes from Alpha Phi Alpha, Second Baptist Church, and the City of Evanston, an overview of the town hall, introduction of panelists, closing remarks, public comment, and adjournment. Public comments can be submitted to the Reparations Subcommittee and will be added to the October 22 meeting minutes. The agenda does not list any specific votes, contracts, or dollar amounts.

• Town hall meeting on local reparations, Oct 22, 2022, 11:00 AM at Second Baptist Church, 1717 Benson Ave
• Welcomes from Alpha Phi Alpha, Second Baptist Church, and the City of Evanston
• Introduction of panelists and closing remarks scheduled
• Public comment accepted via the Reparations Subcommittee and added to the October 22 meeting minutes
• No ordinances, contracts, or dollar amounts appear on the agenda

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Equity and Empowerment Commission is introducing an Equity Scorecard, a tool to evaluate projects, policies, and practices through an equity lens. The agenda describes how the scorecard will be used: a city project lead completes a project information form, three commission members conduct an independent review, and the commission votes on a final recommendation that is submitted with materials to leadership, boards, the City Council, the Mayor, and the City Manager. The scorecard covers ten criteria, including stakeholder engagement, identification of inequities, root causes, adverse impacts, accessibility, and success indicators. No specific projects, contracts, dollar amounts, or votes are listed in this agenda.

• Introduction of the Evanston Equity Scorecard for evaluating projects, policies, and practices
• Scorecard to be used for referrals to City Council, including housing development, land use and zoning changes, budget allocations, public subsidies, and tax abatements
• Review process: project lead submits form to [email protected]; three EEC members complete independent reviews; final recommendation approved by EEC vote
• Ten scorecard criteria include stakeholder engagement, root causes, adverse impacts, accessibility, feasibility, and community accountability
• Final recommendation options: Strongly Support, Support with Modifications, Neutral / More Information Needed, or Do Not Support

M/W/EBE Development Committee

The M/W/EBE Development Committee meets virtually on October 19, 2022, to approve September minutes, review its work plan, and receive an October tracking sheet. New business is listed but no substantive items are described in the agenda. The attached September minutes show a DBE certification discussion that lost quorum before a vote, and legal clarification that MWEBE is a goal rather than a hard requirement.

• Approval of draft mwebe-minutes-20220921
• Old Business: MWEBE Work Plan
• Staff report: October 2022 MWEBE Tracking sheet
• September minutes: IDOT DBE certification discussion ended without a vote after quorum was lost
• September minutes: legal clarification that MWEBE is a goal, not a quota, and LEP funds are governed by code 1721 and C12

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee meets virtually to discuss and vote on recommending a $500,000 Small/Medium Landlord Assistance Program using American Rescue Plan Act funds. The committee will also hear an update on the $1,000,000 One Stop Shop Retrofit Pilot Program and vote on a 5th ward alley paving recommendation. Other items include a discussion on 2023 needs and priorities, a vice-chair election, and rescheduling the December meeting to 12/13/2022.

• Vote to recommend approval of $500,000 in ARPA funds for the Small/Medium Landlord Assistance Program
• One Stop Shop Retrofit Pilot Program update: $1,000,000 ARPA-funded pilot for home energy and resilience improvements
• Approval of the 5th ward Alley Paving Recommendation
• Committee discussion on the shift in needs and priorities for 2023
• Vote on rescheduling the December meeting to 12/13/2022

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council meets in a special session on October 17, 2022, to discuss three proposed 2023 budgets: the Library's budget, the City's budget, and the Capital Improvement Program (CIP). No votes are scheduled; the agenda lists all three items as "For Discussion," and staff are seeking City Council guidance on the proposed 2023 CIP. The attached CIP project matrix lists proposed 2023 funding across streets, water, parks, facilities, and other categories, including a $39,450,000 Water Treatment Plant intake replacement construction project.

• Discussion (no vote) on the Library's proposed 2023 budget
• Discussion on the 2023 Capital Improvement Program; staff seek Council guidance on project priorities
• Discussion on the City's proposed 2023 budget
• Proposed CIP includes WTP 36/42 Intake Replacement construction at $39,450,000
• Proposed CIP includes Lead Service Line Replacement Pilot at $5,360,000 and Annual Program at $625,000

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission is holding its regular meeting remotely, with no in-person public attendance allowed under a state executive order. The agenda includes staff reports on utility reliability and water/sewer capital projects, plus unfinished business on PFAS in drinking water, a low-income solar grant, and ComEd collaboration. New business features a ComEd Beneficial Electrification presentation. No votes on specific contracts, ordinances, or dollar amounts appear in the agenda text.

• Staff report on monthly utility reliability: electric outages, basement backups, water main breaks, service repairs
• Staff report on Water & sewer fund capital improvement project status
• Unfinished business: PFAS in drinking water
• Unfinished business: Low Income Solar Grant
• New business: ComEd Beneficial Electrification Presentation

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Evanston Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets virtually on October 13, 2022. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the 10/3/2022 meeting, a new business segment with no items listed, and an executive session for police officer interviews. No specific decisions, contracts, or dollar amounts are detailed in the agenda.

• Executive session: police officer interviews
• Approval of minutes from 10/3/2022 meeting
• New business section listed but no items specified

Referrals Committee

The Evanston, IL Referrals Committee meets Thursday, October 13, 2022 at 8:30 AM to approve its September 22 minutes and review the list of referrals made to date, selecting which to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda is largely procedural; it does not name specific referrals or dollar amounts. The attached September 22 minutes show the committee voted 3-0 to route several numbered referral lines to city bodies including Rules, Human Services, Economic Development, and Housing and Community Development.

• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of September 22, 2022
• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date, with selection of those to be prioritized
• Sept. 22 minutes: Line 33 referred to Rules for discussion by end of first quarter 2023 (3-0)
• Sept. 22 minutes: Line 35 referred to Human Services to be heard as soon as possible (3-0)
• Sept. 22 minutes: Lines 36, 37, 45, and 46 referred to Economic Development, Housing and Community Development, and Rules (3-0)

Finance and Budget Committee

The Finance and Budget Committee is asked to accept and place on file the Single Audit report for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2021, which covers $8.5 million in federal grant spending and will go to the City Council on October 24. The committee will also discuss major items in the 2023 Proposed Budget. The agenda also includes routine approval of the September 13, 2022 minutes and public comment.

• Single Audit for FY 2021: $8.5 million in federal awards expended; auditors Prado & Renteria / Sikich, LLP issued an unmodified opinion
• 2023 Budget Discussion: staff will review major items in the 2023 Proposed Budget
• Approval of September 13, 2022 Finance & Budget Committee minutes

Preservation Commission

The Preservation Commission will consider Certificates of Appropriateness for exterior alterations at three properties in Evanston historic districts: 1334 Asbury Avenue, 1215 Judson Avenue, and 1453 Maple Avenue. The 1453 Maple Avenue request also includes Major Zoning Variations to convert the building to 24 multi-family dwelling units. The meeting also includes approval of September 13, 2022 minutes, staff updates on the Legacy Business Program, Downtown Heritage Resource Survey, and Heritage Resource Design Manual, and discussion of the Preserve 2040 long-range work plan.

• 1334 Asbury Avenue (Ridge Historic District): Certificate of Appropriateness to alter windows, remove a chimney, infill a recessed porch, and build a rear wood-frame deck
• 1215 Judson Avenue (Lakeshore Historic District): Certificate of Appropriateness to construct a single-story rear addition and open deck
• 1453 Maple Avenue: Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior alterations plus Major Zoning Variations for 24 dwelling units where 14 are permitted, a 0' rear-yard setback where 25' is required, and 10 leased off-street parking spaces where 19 are required
• Staff updates on the Legacy Business Pilot Program, Downtown Heritage Resource Survey, and draft Heritage Resource Design Manual
• Discussion of the Preserve 2040 Preservation Commission long-range work plan

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council meets Tuesday, October 11, 2022 at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center to approve September minutes, consider a $1,000 Special Project grant for the @ben.volio youth Shakespeare series, and vote on new officers. Toby Sachs nominated Melissa Raman Mollitor for Chair and Krista Fabian DeCastro for Vice Chair. Discussion items with no vote include updates on the Bright Nights party on November 19 at Studio 5, the Mayor's Award for the Arts, and a November 7 presentation to the Health and Human Services Committee.

• Consideration of a $1,000 Ben Volio Special Project grant for a Shakespeare-based streaming series involving youth of color
• Nomination of Melissa Raman Mollitor for Chair and Krista Fabian DeCastro for Vice Chair, with a vote expected
• Approval of September 2022 minutes
• Discussion only: Bright Nights party Saturday November 19, 2022, 6-8pm at Studio 5, 1938 Dempster St.
• Discussion only: Arts Council presentation to the Health and Human Services Committee on November 7, 2022

Administration & Public Works Committee

Evanston's Administration & Public Works Committee meets Oct. 10, 2022 to vote on a consent calendar of contracts, change orders, and resolutions, plus two discussion items. Items include a $7,212,018.67 bills list, a $756,644 change order for the 30-Inch Transmission Main Project, and $500,000 in ARPA funding for a Family Focus Welcoming Center. The committee will also discuss expanding the code enforcement complaint process and requiring removal of dead trees on private property.

• Payroll of $3,274,189.74 and Bills List of $7,212,018.67 for approval
• Sole source elevator modernization at Police/Fire HQ with Colley Elevator, not to exceed $177,352
• $500,000 in ARPA funding for Family Focus Welcoming Center
• Change Order No. 3 with Bolder Contractors for 30-Inch Transmission Main Project, $756,644, raising total contract to $11,897,432
• Resolution 110-R-22 to purchase 1808 Hovland Court using Affordable Housing Fund

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee will discuss the West Evanston Master Plan and the oWE West Evanston Overlay District, which staff say are outdated and create barriers to redevelopment in the western part of Evanston and the Five-Fifths TIF area. Staff cite the Mt. Pisgah site at Church & Darrow as an example of anticipated redevelopment hindered by current rules. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and public comment, but no voting items are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of West Evanston Plan & Overlay Area and its impact on current and future development
• Staff memo cites Mt. Pisgah site at Church & Darrow as hindered by existing plan and zoning
• oWE Overlay requires street extensions and storm water detention that staff call cost prohibitive
• Examples include National Awards Building at 1611 Church, ComEd Substation at 1919 Church, and Windy City Garden Center at 2000 Green Bay Road
• Approval of minutes from September 27, 2022 meeting

City Council

Evanston City Council is meeting to act on a range of items, including creating a $50,000 Refugee Resettlement Fund, approving contracts and change orders for sewer, water, and building projects, and considering ordinances on fair housing, no-knock warrants, and liquor license fees. The agenda also includes a discussion on reopening the dog beach and several consent agenda items. Many items are routine approvals of minutes, payroll, and bills.

• Resolution 111-R-22: create $50,000 Refugee Resettlement Fund from Human Services Fund
• A2: sole source elevator modernization at Police/Fire HQ with Colley Elevator, not to exceed $177,352
• A3: $500,000 in ARPA funding for Family Focus Welcoming Center
• A5: Change Order No. 3 with Bolder Contractors for 30-Inch Transmission Main Project, $756,644, increasing total contract to $11,897,432
• H1: Ordinance 79-O-22 amending Fair Housing Ordinance to protect persons with criminal history and domestic violence victims

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee meets Oct. 6, 2022 to discuss funding scenarios for the reparations program, including advancing $3.05 million from the General Fund, restricting the real-estate transfer tax, and setting aside $3 million in ARPA funds. The committee will also vote on a Designation of Beneficiary Form for the Restorative Housing Program and accept the October donation report. A town hall is scheduled for Oct. 22 at Second Baptist Church.

• Discussion of advancing $3.05 million from the General Fund to the Reparations Fund (total program budget $3,450,000; $400,000 already allocated to first 16 recipients)
• Proposal to restrict the graduate real-estate transfer tax and designate a dollar amount or percentage in perpetuity
• Proposal to set aside $3 million of ARPA funds for economic development
• Approval of the Local Reparations: Restorative Housing Program Designation of Beneficiary Form
• Accept and place on file the October 2022 Reparations Financial Donation Report

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Evanston Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets Monday, October 3, 2022 at 9:30 AM. The agenda lists approval of minutes from the 9/22/2022 meeting, new business, and a closed session for lateral police officer candidate interviews. No specific contracts, ordinances, or dollar amounts appear on the agenda. The meeting is listed as accessible via Google Meet, with accommodation requests directed to the Human Resources Division 48 hours in advance.

• Closed session for lateral police officer candidate interviews
• Approval of minutes from the 9/22/2022 meeting
• New business listed without further detail
• Meeting accessible via Google Meet link
• Accommodation requests to Human Resources Division 48 hours in advance

Rules Committee

Evanston's Rules Committee meets Oct. 3, 2022 to review several items for possible referral to the City Council. Members will consider the 2023 City Council meeting schedule, a resolution adding councilmembers to the Referrals Committee, and two ordinances — one renaming the Commission on Aging to the Commission on Aging and Disabilities, and one changing how Social Services Committee recommendations reach the Council. A discussion item covers a proposal of up to $135,000 for part-time communications contractors to assist Councilmembers.

• Ordinance 107-O-22 would rename the Commission on Aging to the Commission on Aging and Disabilities and add disability representation requirements
• Ordinance 109-O-22 would amend City Code Title 2, Chapter 6 so Social Services Committee recommendations go directly to the City Council
• Resolution 108-R-22 would amend City Council Rule 9.7 to expand the Referrals Committee from two to four Councilmembers plus the Mayor
• Approval of the 2023 City Council meeting schedule, including a Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023 meeting due to Yom Kippur
• Discussion of up to $135,000 (up to $15,000 per Ward) for part-time communications contractors for Councilmembers

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee meets Sept. 28, 2022 to discuss the "Evanston Thrives" Retail District Action Plan and retail market trends, and to hear updates on the Legacy Business Program, RISE Grant, Sustain Evanston, and sidewalk cafe permit fees. Most items are listed "For Discussion," so no votes are scheduled. The agenda also includes approval of the July 27, 2022 draft minutes and a communications report on business-district activity.

• "Evanston Thrives" Retail District Action Plan update and retail market presentation by Interface Studio (for discussion)
• Legacy Business Program update presented by Councilmember Kelly (for discussion)
• RISE Grant update memo
• Sustain Evanston Community Incentive Program update
• Sidewalk Cafe Permit Memo on 2023-24 fees

City Council

Evanston's City Council meets Sept. 27, 2022, to act on a consent agenda covering payroll and bills, several sole-source purchases and contracts, and a $500,000 Cook County grant for the Oakton Street Corridor Improvement Project. Committees also take up zoning changes, a billboard proposal, fair housing amendments, and a parking study. Many items are routine approvals; the billboard ordinance is recommended for denial by the Land Use Commission.

• Resolution 78-R-22: accept $500,000 Invest in Cook grant for Oakton Street Corridor Improvement Project; total estimated construction cost $3,100,000
• Payroll and bills: $2,730,927.68 (Aug 15-28), $2,797,387.82 (Aug 29-Sep 11), and $1,940,789.61 bills list
• Sole-source purchase of 480 refuse containers and 200 lids from Rehrig Pacific for $32,680.00
• 3-year contract extension with Lakeshore Recycling Services for condominium refuse franchise
• Ordinance 53-O-22 on billboards near train tracks: Land Use Commission recommends denial; staff offers alternative regulations with 1,000-foot buffer

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee is meeting to consider several items, including a vacation rental license for 2545 Lawndale Avenue, ordinances extending building permit deadlines for planned developments at 1012 Chicago Avenue, 1900 Sherman Avenue, and 605 Davis Street, and a zoning text amendment on restaurant regulations in the MXE District. The committee will also discuss a proposed billboard ordinance that the Land Use Commission previously recommended denying. The meeting includes approval of minutes from August 8, 2022, and public comment.

• Vacation Rental License for 2545 Lawndale Avenue, owned by Steve Gagliano and Lisa Berolzheimer, with neighbors opposing due to traffic, parking, noise, and safety concerns
• Ordinances 96-O-22, 97-O-22, and 98-O-22 granting 18-month extensions to obtain building permits for planned developments at 1012 Chicago Avenue, 1900 Sherman Avenue, and 605 Davis Street
• Ordinance 90-O-22 adding Restaurant Type 1 as permitted and Type 2 as administrative review use in the MXE Mixed-Use Employment District
• Ordinance 53-O-22 adding billboards as a special use near train tracks; Land Use Commission recommended denial, but staff suggests a 1,000-foot buffer if council proceeds
• Approval of minutes from the August 8, 2022 meeting

Administration & Public Works Committee

Evanston's Administration & Public Works Committee meets Sept. 27, 2022 to act on a consent calendar of purchases, contracts, and resolutions, plus two items for consideration. The largest single item is Resolution 78-R-22, accepting a $500,000 "Invest in Cook" grant from Cook County for the Oakton Street Corridor Improvement Project from the west City Limits to Asbury Avenue, part of a project with total estimated construction cost of $3,100,000. The committee will also consider a revised resolution on city payment of private sewer repair costs above $15,000 and an ordinance reducing Class C liquor license fees.

• Resolution 78-R-22: accept $500,000 Cook County "Invest in Cook" grant for Oakton Street Corridor Improvement Project (west City Limits to Asbury Avenue); total estimated construction cost $3,100,000
• A2: sole-source purchase of 480 refuse containers and 200 lids from Rehrig Pacific Company for $32,680.00
• A3: 3-year contract extension with Lakeshore Recycling Services for Condominium Refuse Franchise (FY2023 projected budget $476,560.00)
• A4: agreement with Studio AH, LLC dba HPZS for Ecology Center Renovation consulting (RFP 22-51) for $144,500
• A5: sole-source purchase of 30 Tallmadge street light poles and LED luminaire fixtures from Spring City Electrical Manufacturing for $140,220.00

Special Animal Welfare Board

The Evanston Animal Welfare Board held a special virtual meeting on September 27, 2022. The single business item was a vote on a Letter of Support to the Evanston City Council for the Evanston Animal Shelter project. The draft letter states the Board unanimously requests that the City Council pass a resolution to move forward with constructing a new shelter on the current site. The agenda also lists citizen comment and other communications, with no details provided.

• Letter of Support for the Evanston Animal Shelter Project, for action by the Board
• Draft letter asks the Evanston City Council to pass a resolution to build a new shelter on the current site
• Draft letter says the current building is not ADA compliant, has an unreliable HVAC system, and no fire suppression system
• Draft letter says the Board has advocated for a new facility since 2018
• Citizen comment and other communications listed with no specifics

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets virtually on September 22, 2022. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the June 27, 2022 meeting, public comment, and new business. A closed session is scheduled to interview candidates and review entry-level police officer commission questions. No specific decisions, contracts, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Closed session to interview candidates and review entry level police officer commission questions
• Approval of minutes of June 27, 2022 meeting
• Public comment period
• New business (no details provided)
• Virtual meeting via meet.google.com/gup-mjvm-mxd

Social Services Committee

The Evanston Social Services Committee is meeting to decide on two American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding items. It will vote on whether to approve up to $500,000 for Family Focus to create a Welcoming Center serving immigrants and refugees, and on award amounts for a Child Care Premium Pay Program within $500,000 of ARPA funds. The committee will also nominate a Chair and Vice Chair and hear a staff report. The meeting is being held remotely, and residents may comment by phone, video, or written submission rather than in person.

• Vote on up to $500,000 in ARPA funding for a Family Focus Welcoming Center at its Evanston building, with a proposed budget of $21,460 for planning, $60,000 for start-up, and $418,540 for program operations
• Vote on Child Care Premium Pay Program award amounts for eligible full- and part-time staff at licensed home- and center-based childcare providers, within $500,000 of ARPA funding
• Nomination of Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of August 11, 2022 meeting minutes
• Public comment accepted by phone, video, or written form; no in-person comment due to remote meeting format

Referrals Committee

Evanston's Referrals Committee meets Thursday, September 22, 2022 at 8:30 AM to approve minutes from its September 8 meeting and review the list of referrals made to date, selecting which to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda is largely procedural; no specific referrals, dollar amounts, or ordinances are named for this meeting. The attached September 8 minutes show the committee previously referred three items (Lines 42, 43, and 44) to other bodies with deadlines through early 2023.

• Approval of Referrals Committee minutes of September 8, 2022
• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date, with committee selecting which to prioritize
• Sept. 8 minutes: Line 42 referred to APW, to be heard by end of October
• Sept. 8 minutes: Line 43 referred to Rules Committee, to be heard by end of 2022
• Sept. 8 minutes: Line 44 referred to Rules Committee, to be heard by end of first quarter 2023

911- Emergency Telephone System Board

The Evanston 911 Emergency Telephone System Board meets Sept. 22, 2022 at 909 Lake Street to discuss and approve its FY2023 budget and set its 2023 meeting schedule. The board will also hear updates on a Fire Department infrastructure upgrade, a Problem-Oriented Policing module, and CESSA (Community Emergency Services and Supports Act) progress. It will vote on minutes from its March 24, 2022 meeting. The attached budget worksheet shows a proposed 2023 baseline of $1,407,000 in revenue and $1,644,314.79 in expenses.

• Discussion and approval of FY2023 Emergency Telephone System Budget; worksheet shows 2023 baseline revenue of $1,407,000 and expenses of $1,644,314.79
• Approval of 2023 ETSB meeting schedule; meetings on the fourth Thursday of every other month except May, starting January 26, 2023
• Update on Fire Department Infrastructure Upgrade
• Update on Problem-Oriented Policing Module
• CESSA (Community Emergency Services and Supports Act) progress update

M/W/EBE Development Committee

The M/W/EBE Development Committee meets virtually on Sept. 21, 2022. New business includes a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise certification and MWEBE goal item, a discussion to amend Section 1-17-1 of the City Code on purchases of goods or services, and the committee's work plan. The committee will also receive an update on the NU Incubator/AUX Partners proposal for an Evanston incubator for businesses of color, and staff reports on M/W/EBE and LEP tracking.

• Discussion to amend Section 1-17-1 of the City Code 'Purchases of Goods or Services'
• MWEBE Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification / MWEBE Goal
• NU Incubator - AUX update/presentation on the Evanston Incubator for Businesses of Color proposal
• Staff reports: M/W/EBE and LEP Tracking Report and 2022 MWEBE Tracking sheet
• Legal clarification of MWEBE Goal and LEP Fund under other business

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee is set to discuss and vote on recommending approval of the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, which proposes spending $1 million on a non-congregate shelter and $150,000 on tenant-based rental assistance. The plan would then go to the City Council on October 10, 2022. The committee will also review whether to forgive or defer new CDBG housing rehabilitation loans and get an overview of the 2022 Inclusionary Housing Ordinance review.

• Vote to recommend approval of the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, which proposes $1 million (77%) for a non-congregate shelter with about 66 beds and $150,000 (12%) for tenant-based rental assistance
• Discussion of forgiving versus deferring new Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Housing Rehabilitation Loans
• Inclusionary Housing Ordinance 2022 Review: Overview
• Public comment on the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan
• Approval of minutes from the August 16, 2022 meeting

Rules Committee

Evanston's Rules Committee meets Sept. 19, 2022 to finalize council committee assignments and consider two resolutions from Mayor Biss that would add a cosponsor mechanism to the city's referral process. The committee will also vote on minutes from its Aug. 1, 2022 meeting. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with public comment and no discussion or communication items listed.

• Revised Councilmember Committee Selection List: appoints Councilmember Harris to committees held by the former 2nd Ward councilmember, Councilmember Geracaris to the Housing and Community Development Committee, and Councilmember Nieuwsma to the Environment Board
• Resolution 85-R-22 (Mayor Biss): amends City Council Rule 9.7 so referrals with at least two cosponsors in addition to the referrer are guaranteed assignment by the Referrals Committee
• Resolution 86-R-22 (Mayor Biss): amends City Council Rule 9.10.3 to let councilmembers sign on in writing as cosponsors once a referral is public, with cosponsor names made public
• Approval of draft Rules Committee meeting minutes from Aug. 1, 2022
• Public comment accepted in advance or by phone/video via the City Clerk's online form or 847-448-4311

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council meets in a special session to discuss the 2023 Capital Improvement Program and vote on several staff compensation items. The capital plan covers street resurfacing, water mains, sewers, parks, facilities, and sustainability projects, with staff seeking council feedback on priorities. Action items include retention bonuses for city staff and police, a 3% raise for exempt employees, and back pay for firefighters. The agenda also includes public comment and a call of the wards.

• Retention bonus of $500 for all City staff, total cost $380,000 from General Fund reserves
• Retention bonus of $2,500 for non-union full-time Police Department staff, total cost $50,000
• 3% wage increase for all exempt employees, costing $375,368 over one year and about $94,000 for the rest of 2022
• One-time payment of about $494,059.62 in back pay to 105 Evanston Firefighters IAFF employees, funded by ARPA
• Discussion of 2023 Capital Improvement Program, including Main Street streetscape ($4,861,500), Oakton corridor traffic calming ($3,650,000), lead service line replacement ($7,785,000), and a 36"/42" water intake replacement ($40,117,000)

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Equity and Empowerment Commission is introducing the Evanston Equity Scorecard, a tool to evaluate projects, policies, and practices through an equity lens. The agenda describes how city project leads and the commission will use the scorecard, including a 10-criteria review and a final recommendation vote. No specific projects, contracts, or votes are listed for decision at this meeting.

• Equity Scorecard to be used for City Council referrals on projects, policies, and practices
• Scorecard covers areas including housing development, land use and zoning changes, budget allocations, public subsidies, and tax abatements
• Three EEC members assigned to independently review each scorecard
• Final scorecard recommendation approved by a vote of the EEC
• 10 criteria include stakeholder engagement, identification of inequities, root causes, adverse impacts, and success indicators

Finance and Budget Committee

Evanston's Finance and Budget Committee meets Sept. 13 to vote on recommending a three-year extension of the city's auditing contract with Sikich, LLP to the City Council. The committee will also discuss how to fund 2022 capital projects — a line of credit versus general obligation bonds — plus pension actuarial valuations, the General Fund balance, remaining 2022 property taxes, the 2023 budget calendar, and the Reparations Fund. The agenda also includes approval of the August 9, 2022 minutes and public comment.

• Auditing Services Extension: staff seeks a recommendation to extend Sikich, LLP for three more years, with 3% increase for 2022, 4% for 2023 and 4% for 2024; 2022 audit payment would be $107,890 vs. $103,740 for 2021, funded from the General Fund (Account 100.15.1570.62110), with $110,000 budgeted for FY 2023
• Discussion of GO Bond vs. Line of Credit for CIP projects: staff memo cites overall interest rates of 3.60% to 4.00%, a 3.65% final rate for Byline Bank and an estimated 3.82% for Wintrust Bank, and a CIP fund balance of $11 million as of July
• Wintrust Bank indicative terms for a non-revolving line of credit up to $15,000,000, offered for discussion only and not a commitment, expiring September 16, 2022 for written acceptance
• Preliminary GO Bond debt service schedule for General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds, Series 2022: $13,645,000 principal, $8,295,927.08 interest, $21,940,927.08 total, dated November 16, 2022
• Discussion items: Pension Actuarial Valuations; Status of General Fund Balance (projected 2022 surplus); Status of remaining 2022 Property Taxes; 2023 Key Budget Calendar dates; Status of Reparations Fund

Preservation Commission

The Preservation Commission will consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for 1247 Ridge Avenue in the Ridge Historic District, where the owner proposes to demolish a rear wood deck and stone retaining wall and build a single-story frame addition and concrete retaining wall in the same footprint. The meeting also includes discussion of the draft Preserve 2040 long-range work plan, an update on the Downtown Heritage Resource Survey, and an update on the Legacy Business Pilot Program. The agenda also lists approval of minutes from July 12, 2022.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for 1247 Ridge Avenue (22PRES-0165): demolish rear wood deck and stone retaining wall, construct single-story frame addition and concrete retaining wall in same footprint
• Discussion of draft Preserve 2040 work plan, intended as the Commission's 20-year policy document; prior plan was from 1980
• Staff update on the Downtown Heritage Resource Survey
• Staff update on the Legacy Business Pilot Program, developed with Planning and Zoning, Economic Development, and Councilmembers
• Approval of meeting minutes from July 12, 2022

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council meets Sept. 13, 2022 to vote on two funding requests: $1,000 for Artists Book House's October Halloween book arts programming, and a $7,500 community consultation fee plus $5,700 materials increase for the Noyes Cultural Arts Center sculpture. The meeting also includes discussion (no vote) on appointing a planning committee for the Mayor's Award for the Arts and Bright Night party, and on nominations for new Chair and Vice Chair. The agenda notes the meeting is virtual and residents may comment online or in writing.

• Vote on $1,000 special project grant to Artists Book House for month-long October Halloween book arts projects at the Harley Clarke Mansion and community workshops
• Vote on $7,500 community consultation fee and $5,700 materials increase for the Chicago Public Art Group sculpture at Noyes Cultural Arts Center (927 Noyes Street); project total budget now $34,000
• Discussion (no vote) on appointing a planning committee for the November Mayor's Award for the Arts and Bright Night party
• Discussion (no vote) on nominations for new Chair and Vice Chair; vote scheduled for October, incumbents take office in November
• Approval of July meeting minutes

City Council

Evanston's City Council meets Monday, September 12, 2022, to act on a range of items, including the mayor's recommended appointment of Krissie Harris as the new 2nd Ward Councilmember. The agenda also includes a resolution objecting to a roadway easement request through Metropolitan Water Reclamation District property leased by the City, and a staff report on employee classification, compensation, and staffing. Much of the agenda is a consent list of contracts, purchases, and resolutions, including a settlement in Kevin Logan v. City of Evanston. The Planning & Development Committee meeting was canceled.

• Appointment of Krissie Harris as 2nd Ward Councilmember (SP1)
• Resolution 80-R-22 objecting to a roadway easement request through MWRD property leased by the City (SP2)
• Baker Tilly 2022 Class, Compensation, and Staffing Analysis final report accepted and placed on file (SP3)
• Contract with Teska Associates for Mason Park Expansion and Church/Dodge Transportation Improvement Project, $168,654 (A3)
• Contract with Agency Landscape + Planning for Park and Green Space Strategic Plan, $200,000 (A4)

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee meets Sept. 12, 2022, to review a consent calendar of contracts, purchases, and resolutions for City Council action. Items include up to $2,000,000 for private lead service line replacements, a $597,280 water plant electrical project, and a resolution on city payment for private sewer repairs over $15,000. The committee will also consider grant applications and agreements for street, park, and pedestrian projects.

• Up to $2,000,000 in contracts with four plumbing firms for private lead service line replacements, funded by ARPA
• $597,280 agreement with Greeley and Hansen for the Water Plant 4160V Electrical System Reliability Project
• Resolution 63-R-22 on City paying private sewer repair costs in excess of $15,000 per residential property
• $168,654 agreement with Teska Associates for Mason Park Expansion and Church/Dodge Transportation Improvement Project
• $508,200.57 contract with Streetplus for 2022-2023 Business District Maintenance Services

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission meets remotely on September 9, 2022, with public comment available only by phone or video. The agenda includes continued discussion of lead water service line replacement, PFAS in drinking water, and several ongoing energy and sustainability items. Commissioners will also consider creating subcommittees on focused topics and hear staff reports on utility reliability and water and sewer capital projects.

• Lead water service line replacement issue listed under news of interest and City Council actions
• Unfinished business includes CARP Implementation, Low Income Solar Grant, and updates on collaboration with ComEd
• Green Building Ordinance Update and potential presentations from ComEd and/or NU on electrification and sustainability
• PFAS in drinking water listed under unfinished business
• Potential creation of Utilities Commission subcommittees on focused topics

Liquor Control Review Board

The Evanston Liquor Control Review Board meets Sept. 8, 2022 to consider four businesses seeking liquor licenses and a proposed City Code amendment affecting annual liquor license fees. The board will also vote on minutes from its July 13, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes public comment and electronic-participation procedures but no other substantive items.

• El Pueblito Mexican Grill 2 at 1805 Howard Street requests a Class D (Restaurant) license
• Bluestone (Vivian's Restaurant, Inc.) at 1932 Central Street requests a Class D (Restaurant) license
• Bar Rotunde (La Rotunde Investment, LLC) at 625 Davis Street requests a Class C (Hotel or Restaurant) license
• Salud Kitchen at 702 Clark Street requests a Class D (Restaurant) license
• Proposed amendment to Section 3-4-6(C) of the City Code to reduce annual fees for certain Class C license holders

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee meets on September 8, 2022 to approve its August 18 minutes and to review the list of referrals made to date, selecting which ones to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda is largely procedural; no specific referrals, dollar amounts, or ordinances are named in the September agenda itself. The attached August 18 minutes show the committee previously voted 2-0 to route several numbered referral lines to bodies including the Land Use Commission, APW, and Rules Committee.

• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of August 18, 2022
• Review and scheduling of referrals: committee to select which referrals to prioritize
• August 18 minutes: Line 38 referred to APW for the first October meeting (carried 2-0)
• August 18 minutes: Line 31 referred to Land Use Commission as soon as possible; Line 39 by end of November (each carried 2-0)
• August 18 minutes: Line 40 referred to Rules Committee by end of year; Line 41 referred to APW for October action (each carried 2-0)

Citizen Police Review Commission

The Citizen Police Review Commission meets Sept. 7, 2022 to decide whether two completed Evanston Police Department internal investigations were complete, thorough, objective and fair. The items are Complaint Register #21-05, involving a complaint against an officer who is also a neighbor, and Department Inquiry #22-01, involving an allegation of unlawful detention and a threat to a dog during a traffic crash investigation. The Commission may also convene into executive session. The meeting is held remotely under Mayor Daniel Biss' declaration suspending in-person attendance requirements.

• Review of Complaint Register #21-05: staff recommends the Commission find the internal investigation complete, thorough, objective and fair; the accused officer is retired as of April 2022 after 30 years
• Review of Department Inquiry #22-01: staff recommends the Commission find the internal investigation complete, thorough, objective and fair; the inquiry stems from an April 16, 2022 traffic crash at Ridge Avenue and Church Street
• Motion to convene into Executive Session at the Commission's discretion
• Approval of the minutes of the August 3, 2022 meeting
• Public comment accepted virtually or in writing

Human Services Committee

The Human Services Committee is deciding whether to recommend Ordinance 79-O-22, which would amend the city's Fair Housing Ordinance to add protections for people with covered criminal history (the Just Housing Amendment) and for actual or perceived victims of domestic violence. The committee will also consider Ordinance 88-O-22 to prohibit no-knock warrants and discuss Ordinance 87-O-22 on Miranda warnings and a possible nudity ban. Most items are referrals to the City Council for adoption, not final decisions.

• Ordinance 79-O-22: amend Fair Housing Ordinance to protect persons with covered criminal history and domestic violence victims; two versions attached, staff recommends the one with Just Housing Amendment implementing regulations
• Ordinance 88-O-22: add Subsection 9-1-4-1 prohibiting the use of no-knock warrants
• Ordinance 87-O-22: add Subsection 9-1-4-2 requiring Miranda warnings to be issued (for discussion)
• Nudity ban ordinance: committee reviewing current city code regulation and asking the Law Department whether the language would survive a legal challenge
• Approval of minutes from the August 17, 2022 regular and executive session meetings

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee meets Sept. 1, 2022 to discuss an update on cannabis licenses, a Request for Qualifications for a provider to administer the Restorative Housing Program, strategies for deceased reparations recipients, and possible dates for a Reparations Town Hall at Fleetwood Jourdain Gymnasium. The committee will also vote on an Ancestral Acknowledgment, accept the August 2022 donation report, and approve July 13, 2022 minutes. The July minutes show the committee selected Robin Rue Simmons as chair and voted to release reparations funding to remaining recipients as funds become available.

• Discussion of Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a provider to manage the Restorative Housing Program
• Possible Reparations Town Hall dates at Fleetwood Jourdain Gymnasium: Sept. 22, Sept. 29, Oct. 13, Oct. 21, 2:00-5:00 PM
• Vote to accept and place on file the August 2022 Reparations Financial Donation Report
• Discussion of strategies for deceased reparations recipients (Ancestors)
• Update on cannabis licenses: 119 conditional licenses issued in BLS Region Five; Mayor Biss invited recipients to open in Evanston

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee meets Thursday, August 18, 2022 at 8:30 AM to approve minutes from its July 14 meeting and to review the list of referrals made to date, selecting which ones to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda itself lists no specific referrals, dollar amounts, or ordinances for this meeting. The attached July 14 minutes show the committee, with Mayor Daniel Biss and Councilmember Eleanor Revelle present and Councilmember Suffredin absent, voted 2-0 to refer items to Council (Noise Ordinance discussions), Planning and Development, and Housing and Community Development.

• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of July 14, 2022
• Review and scheduling of referrals: committee to select which referrals to prioritize
• July 14 minutes: Line 29 referred to Council as part of Noise Ordinance discussions for the August 8 meeting
• July 14 minutes: Lines 30 and 31 referred to Planning and Development to be heard in July or August
• July 14 minutes: Line 32 referred to Housing and Community Development for inclusionary housing ordinance discussions

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Evanston Equity and Empowerment Commission is introducing an Equity Scorecard, a tool to evaluate City projects, policies, and practices through an equity lens. The scorecard is intended for use when making referrals for City Council consideration, covering areas such as housing development, zoning changes, budget allocations, and public subsidies. The agenda describes how City staff and Commission members would complete and review the scorecard, but does not indicate any votes or decisions at this meeting.

• Equity Scorecard created by the Equity & Empowerment Commission with input from City Council and community partners
• Scorecard to be used for referrals to City Council on projects, policies, and practices
• Applies to areas including housing development, land use and zoning changes, budget allocations, public subsidies, and tax abatements
• Three EEC members assigned to independently review each scorecard, with final recommendation approved by EEC vote
• Scorecard includes 10 criteria such as stakeholder engagement, root causes, accessibility, and success indicators

Human Services Committee

The Human Services Committee meets Aug. 17, 2022 to vote on Ordinance 81-O-22, which would repeal City Code Section 9-5-7 banning publications that incite riots or physical violence. The committee will also discuss the Victim Services Fund, beach food vendor fees, and two resolutions authorizing agreements with FUSE Corps and LEAP for the Reimagining Public Safety Committee and low-priority 911 calls. Several police-related reports are slated to be accepted and placed on file.

• Ordinance 81-O-22 would repeal City Code Section 9-5-7 'Publications Inciting Riots or Physical Violence' in its entirety
• Resolution 67-R-22 would authorize an agreement with FUSE Corps for an Executive Fellow at a total project cost of $180,000 from ARPA Account 170.99.1700.55251
• Resolution 68-R-22 would authorize an agreement with LEAP for $25,000 to $35,000 depending on scope, with Phase 2 and 3 services an additional $35,000
• Discussion of fees for beach food vendors under the Food Peddlers Ordinance
• Discussion of Health and Human Services Victim Services fund allocations

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council held a special meeting on August 16, 2022, with one substantive action item: approving the Mayor's appointment of Luke Stowe as City Manager. The attached employment agreement sets an annual salary of $250,000 effective August 15, 2022, plus deferred compensation of 8% of salary and other benefits. The agenda also includes public comment, a call of the wards, and adjournment.

• Approval of Luke Stowe as City Manager (for action)
• Employment agreement: $250,000 annual salary effective August 15, 2022
• Deferred compensation of 8% of annual salary to a tax-deferred plan
• Severance of 20 weeks of compensation if terminated without cause
• Car allowance and cell phone stipend at the same level as Department Directors

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee meets virtually to vote on recommending a substantial amendment to the 2021 Action Plan, which reallocates unexpended CDBG and NSP2 funds. It will also consider CDBG funding for a 9th Ward alley and receive reports on the inclusionary housing waitlist and landlord-tenant services. The meeting is held remotely under pandemic rules, with public comment accepted in writing or by phone/video.

• Vote to recommend approval of a substantial amendment to the 2021 Action Plan, reallocating $135,401.48 of unexpended CDBG Administration funds to the Livable Communities goal and transferring $148,233.88 of NSP2 program income to the CDBG Housing goal
• Consideration of CDBG funding for an alley North of Linden Place and East of Custer Avenue in the 9th Ward, estimated at $220,000
• Inclusionary Housing waitlist report: 560 households on the waitlist as of July 1, 2022, with 45 existing IHO units
• Landlord-Tenant Services report: 206 cases from January to July 2022, with leases (61) and evictions (52) the top categories
• Staff updates on the Small Landlord Taskforce and the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission meets remotely on August 12, 2022, with public comment available only by phone or video due to a state executive order. The agenda includes continued discussion of the CARP Implementation, a Low Income Solar Grant, ComEd collaboration, and a solar power purchase agreement at Robert Crown Community Center. Members will also hear updates on the Green Building Ordinance and PFAS in drinking water, and consider creating subcommittees on focused topics. Staff reports cover monthly utility reliability and water and sewer capital project status.

• Solar Power Purchase Agreement at Robert Crown Community Center — pros and cons of retaining, buying, and selling Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)
• PFAS in drinking water discussion
• Low Income Solar Grant
• Green Building Ordinance Update
• Potential creation of Utilities Commission subcommittees on focused topics

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee meets remotely to review a Family Focus request for $477,831 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to launch a Welcoming Center at its 5th Ward building. The item is listed for discussion only, with no vote scheduled. The committee will also receive FY 2022 program reports and a staff report, and take public comment by phone or video rather than in person.

• Family Focus requests $477,831 in ARPA funds for a Welcoming Center; proposed budget covers July 2022 to July 2023
• Budget breakdown: $21,460 project planning/community engagement, $50,000 start-up costs, $406,371 program operations
• Planned timeline: focus groups October 2022, rollout January 1, 2023, ribbon cutting February 2023
• Committee to approve June 9, 2022 meeting minutes
• FY 2022 Program Reports and a staff report also on the agenda

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee meets Thursday, August 11, 2022 at 8:30 AM to approve minutes from its July 14, 2022 meeting and to review the list of referrals made to date, selecting which to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda is largely procedural; no specific referrals, dollar amounts, or ordinances are named for this meeting. The attached July 14 minutes show the committee previously referred items to Council (Noise Ordinance discussions), Planning and Development, and Housing and Community Development (inclusionary housing ordinance).

• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of July 14, 2022
• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date, with committee selecting which to prioritize
• July 14 minutes: Line 29 referred to Council as part of Noise Ordinance discussions for the August 8 meeting
• July 14 minutes: Lines 30 and 31 referred to Planning and Development for July or August
• July 14 minutes: Line 32 referred to Housing and Community Development for inclusionary housing ordinance discussions

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The agenda consists of roll call, a public comment period, a call of the wards, and a closed executive session on personnel matters under 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1), followed by adjournment. No ordinances, contracts, rezonings, or other substantive items are listed for a public vote.

• Executive session on "Personnel Matters" under 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1)
• Public comment period, with 15 minutes if five or fewer speakers or 45 minutes if more
• Call of the Wards for councilmembers to raise Ward or City matters

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on Tuesday, August 9, 2022 at 2:00 PM at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The agenda consists mainly of procedural items: roll call, public comment, and a Call of the Wards. The only substantive item is a closed executive session cited under 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) for personnel matters, after which the meeting adjourns. No ordinances, contracts, rezonings, or fee changes appear on this agenda.

• Executive session under 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) for personnel matters
• Public comment period with sign-up via the City Clerk's Office online form or 847-448-4311
• Roll call for Councilmember Geracaris
• Call of the Wards for councilmembers to raise Ward or City matters
• Meeting held at Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, 2:00 PM

Finance and Budget Committee

Evanston's Finance and Budget Committee meets to discuss the 2021 financial audit, a line of credit for capital projects and delayed property taxes, mid-year finances, and the Solid Waste Fund's negative balance. The committee will vote on recommending a Payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) task force to the City Council, and will discuss using ARPA funds to reimburse firefighters for pandemic-era wage concessions.

• Vote on recommending a PILOT task force to study revenue from tax-exempt institutions like Northwestern
• Solid Waste Fund options: raise service charges, increase property tax allocation, or transfer $1 million from General Fund reserves
• Discussion of a line of credit for CIP projects and delayed property taxes
• Review of the 2021 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and mid-year finances as of 6/30/22
• Discussion of ARPA wage reimbursement for Evanston firefighters, with a proposal not to exceed $440,000 over three years

City Council

Evanston City Council meets August 8, 2022, to act on a range of items including a resolution reaffirming the city's commitment to reproductive health care rights, a one-year rock salt contract, and purchases of vehicles for lead service line replacement. The consent agenda also includes several engineering and paving contracts, a midyear financial update, and ordinances on green building and bird-friendly design. Many items are routine approvals of payroll, bills, and minutes.

• Resolution 65-R-22 reaffirming commitment to reproductive health care rights
• One-year contract with Morton Salt Inc. for rock salt at $554,475.00
• Purchase of four vehicles for workforce development and water bureau totaling over $463,000
• Contract with Chicagoland Paving for tennis court resurfacing at $450,000.00
• Ordinances on green building and bird-friendly building design

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee meets Monday, August 8, 2022, to vote on reducing building permit fines for work done without permits at 1000 Central Street, and on a vacation rental license for 2545 Lawndale Avenue. Members will also discuss hiring a FUSE Executive Fellow for $180,000 to design an affordable housing equity program. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the July 25, 2022 meeting.

• Building permit fine reduction for Integrated Facilities Solutions at 1000 Central Street: assessed fees of $10,550 and $23,687.95 would be reduced to $2,500 each, totaling $5,000
• Vacation Rental License for 2545 Lawndale Avenue, a single-family home in a tri-plex available up to 5 months a year
• Discussion on hiring a FUSE Executive Fellow at a cost of $180,000 for Advancing Equity through Affordable Housing Program Design
• Approval of minutes from the July 25, 2022 regular meeting

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee meets Aug. 8, 2022, to review a consent calendar of contracts, purchases, and resolutions before sending them to City Council. Items include a $554,475 rock salt contract for winter 2022/23, a $450,000 tennis court resurfacing award, and multiple vehicle purchases funded partly by $930,000 in ARPA funds. The committee will also consider two building-code ordinances and discuss making Juneteenth a paid City holiday.

• One-year contract with Morton Salt Inc. for rock salt at $554,475.00 (Bid 22-84), with a requested FY 2023 budget allocation of $625,000.00
• Contract award to Chicagoland Paving Contractors Inc. for Tennis Court Resurfacing Project at $450,000.00 (Bid 22-49), with a full MWEBE participation waiver
• Purchase of four vehicles for the Workforce Development/Lead Service Line Replacement and Water Bureau totaling $463,828.33, funded partly by $930,000 in ARPA funds
• Resolution 63-R-22 to have the City pay private sewer repair line costs exceeding $15,000 per residential property, with an unknown total cost and $75,000 currently budgeted in the Sewer Fund
• Ordinance 82-O-22 revising the Green Building Ordinance and Ordinance 83-O-22 adding Bird Friendly Building Design rules

Citizen Police Review Commission

The Citizen Police Review Commission meets virtually on August 3, 2022 to vote on whether the internal investigation of Complaint Register #21-05 was complete, thorough, objective and fair. The complaint involves an Evanston Police Officer accused by a neighbor of using his position to obtain an Order of Protection with false information and of threatening arrest. The Commission may also convene into Executive Session to discuss personnel matters, and will consider approving minutes from its May 4, 2022 meeting.

• Vote on whether the internal investigation of Complaint Register #21-05 was complete, thorough, objective and fair
• Complaint Register #21-05: officer accused of using police power to obtain an Order of Protection with false information and of threatening to arrest a neighbor
• Staff memo notes the accused officer retired in April 2022 after 30 years of service
• Possible motion to convene into Executive Session under 5 ILCS 120/2a to discuss personnel
• Approval of minutes from the May 4, 2022 Citizen Police Review Commission meeting

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on Monday, August 1, 2022 at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The agenda consists mainly of procedural items: roll call, public comment, and a Call of the Wards for councilmembers to raise ward or city matters. The only substantive item listed is a closed executive session cited under 5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1) for "Personnel Matters," after which the meeting adjourns. No ordinances, contracts, rezonings, or fee changes appear on this agenda.

• Executive session closed to the public under 5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1), cited as "Personnel Matters"
• Public comment period: 15 minutes if five or fewer speakers, otherwise 45 minutes with a three-minute limit per speaker
• Call of the Wards, where councilmembers may announce ward or city matters
• Roll call listed for Councilmember Revelle
• No contracts, dollar amounts, ordinances, or public hearings are listed on this agenda

Rules Committee

The Evanston Rules Committee meets Aug. 1, 2022, to vote on three items: a resolution allowing non-Councilmembers to chair committees of Councilmembers and residents, an ordinance adding a Councilmember to the Environment Board, and an ordinance on official misconduct. It will also approve minutes from June 6, 2022. The meeting is at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center.

• Resolution 58-R-22 would amend City Council Rule 5.6.2 to let residents chair committees that report to the Council
• Ordinance 64-O-22 would add a 12th member to the Environment Board, a Councilmember appointed by the Mayor
• Ordinance 51-O-22 would amend the City Code on Official Misconduct to apply anti-harassment policies to elected and appointed officials
• Approval of June 6, 2022 Rules Committee meeting minutes

911- Emergency Telephone System Board

The Evanston, IL 911 Emergency Telephone System Board meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 28, 2022 at 5:30 P.M. was canceled due to lack of agenda items. No business was decided or discussed. The next regularly scheduled meeting is Thursday, September 22, 2022 at 5:30 PM at the Fire Department Administration, 909 Lake Street, or via Zoom.

• July 28, 2022 meeting canceled due to lack of agenda items
• Next meeting: Thursday, September 22, 2022, 5:30 PM
• Location: Fire Department Administration, 909 Lake St., First Floor Conference Room, or via Zoom
• Contact: Christopher Voss, 847-866-5068

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is deciding whether to recommend creating a Legacy Business Program, with Councilmember Kelly proposing up to $100,000 from the Business District Improvements fund (account 100.15.5300.65522, balance $154,725.49). Members will also discuss a free business workshop series with Evanston Community Bank & Trust and give feedback on a proposed $250,000 two-year "Sustain Evanston Community Incentive Program" for sustainability projects. The meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, 2100 Ridge Ave., Room 2404.

• Legacy Business Program: up to $100,000 from account 100.15.5300.65522 (balance $154,725.49) for a plaque, branding, website, and future grants
• Legacy program grants discussed at up to $25,000 per business and $10,000 per property owner, with clawback provisions
• New Business Workshop Series with Evanston Community Bank & Trust: four free sessions Sept. 15–Nov. 17 at YWCA Evanston/North Shore, 1215 Church Street
• Sustain Evanston Community Incentive Program proposal: $250,000 two-year pilot, reimbursement grants of $1,000–$15,000, funding sources may include ARPA, TIF, and General Fund
• Approval of June 29, 2022 draft meeting minutes

City Council

Evanston City Council is meeting to act on a consent agenda of contracts, change orders, and ordinances, plus a special order on the 2021 financial report and a discussion of modernizing the Evanston Service Center. The largest item is a $44,699,000 contract with IHC Construction Companies for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement, contingent on Illinois EPA loan funding. Council will also consider several other construction and services contracts, liquor license increases, and minutes approval.

• $44,699,000 contract with IHC Construction Companies LLC for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement (Bid 22-35), contingent on IEPA loan funding
• $1,356,923.20 contract with Bolder Contractors, Inc. for Poplar Avenue Street and Parking Lot Improvements (Bid No. 22-43)
• $1,095,930 Change Order No. 2 with Bolder Contractors, Inc. for the 30-Inch Transmission Main Project, raising the total contract to $11,140,788
• $1,354,413 Change Order No. 4 with Stantec Consulting Services for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement, raising the contract to $2,129,758 and extending completion to December 4, 2024
• Ordinances to increase Class L-2 liquor licenses from one to two for Shop Now at 1942 Maple Avenue, and Class B licenses from zero to one for AMC Evanston 12 at 1715 Maple Avenue

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee meets July 25, 2022 to review a consent calendar of contracts, change orders, and liquor license ordinances before sending them to City Council. Major items include a $44,699,000 contract for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement and a $1,356,923.20 contract for Poplar Avenue street and parking lot improvements. The committee will also consider payroll and bills totaling about $6.05 million and several liquor license increases for local businesses.

• Contract award to IHC Construction Companies, LLC for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement at $44,699,000.00, contingent on IEPA loan funding
• Contract award to Bolder Contractors, Inc. for Poplar Avenue Street and Parking Lot Improvements at $1,356,923.20
• Contract award to MKSK, Inc. for Beck Park Expansion Project Phase 1 design at $105,111
• Change Order No. 2 with Bolder Contractors, Inc. for the 30-Inch Transmission Main Project adding $1,095,930, raising the total contract to $11,140,788
• Ordinances to increase liquor licenses for Shop Now (1942 Maple Avenue), AMC Evanston 12 (1715 Maple Avenue), Lao Sze Chuan (1633 Orrington Avenue), and Tomo Japanese Street Food (1729 Sherman Avenue)

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee meets July 25, 2022 to consider four items: an omnibus update to the zoning code, a billboard special-use ordinance the Land Use Commission recommends denying, a parking adjustment at 1571 Maple Avenue, and a map amendment at Crawford Avenue & Gross Point Road that the Land Use Commission also recommends denying. The committee will also approve minutes from June 27 and July 11, 2022, and hear public comment. The agenda does not state what the committee decided; items are listed for introduction or consideration.

• Ordinance 63-O-22: omnibus text amendment to Titles 4 and 6 updating the zoning code, including ADA parking rules, moving the Sign Code and Subdivision Code into the zoning ordinance, and adding automobile body repair as a special use in the I1 district
• Ordinance 53-O-22: would add billboards as a special use in all zoning districts; Land Use Commission reaffirms recommendation for denial, finding it does not meet the Comprehensive General Plan
• Ordinance 72-O-22: major adjustment to required parking at 1571 Maple Avenue, relocating 55 leased spaces from the Maple Avenue Garage to the Sherman Plaza Garage and charging only for spaces used; a lease resolution follows August 8, 2022
• Ordinance 74-O-22: map amendment to remove the oCSC Central Street Overlay District from properties at Crawford Avenue & Gross Point Road; Land Use Commission recommends denial, and a valid petition means a 3/4 City Council vote would be required to approve
• Approval of minutes from the June 27 and July 11, 2022 regular meetings

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Evanston Equity and Empowerment Commission is introducing an Equity Scorecard, a tool to evaluate projects, policies, and practices through an equity lens. The agenda describes how the scorecard will be used: a city project lead completes project information, three commission members conduct an independent review, and the commission votes on a final recommendation. The scorecard covers areas such as stakeholder engagement, identification of inequities, root causes, adverse impacts, accessibility, and success indicators. No specific projects, contracts, or votes are listed in this agenda.

• Equity Scorecard to be used for City Council referrals on projects, policies, and practices
• Scorecard covers housing development, land use and zoning changes, budget allocations, public subsidies, and tax abatements
• Three EEC members assigned to independently review each scorecard
• Final recommendation options: Strongly Support, Support with Modifications, Neutral / More Information Needed, Do Not Support
• Scorecard inspired by Race Forward's Racial Equity Impact Assessment Toolkit, Twin Cities Equity Scorecard, and Evanston District 65 Equity Rubric

M/W/EBE Development Committee - VIRTUAL Jul 20 2022

Evanston's Minority, Women & Evanston Business Enterprise (M/W/EBE) Development Committee meets virtually on July 20, 2022 to elect a Citizen Committee Chair and a Chair Pro Tem, and to approve minutes from its March 16 meeting. The committee will hear an update on the Northwestern minority business incubator and a July 2022 M/W/EBE and Local Employment Program (LEP) tracking report. Under new business, it will consider a letter from Clearwater Contracting, Inc. seeking a waiver of the one-year Evanston residency requirement to qualify as an Evanston Based Enterprise, and will review a revised 2022 meeting schedule that adds breaks in August and November.

• Election of Citizen Committee Chair and Chair Pro Tem under City Council Rule 5.6.3
• Clearwater Contracting, Inc. of 2521 Gross Point Road requests a waiver of the one-year EBE requirement, offering to meet a 15% Evanston resident hiring goal under the LEP
• NU minority business incubator update; $300,000 in funding was noted in the March 16 minutes
• M/W/EBE and LEP tracking report; the LEP Penalty Fund balance was reported at $61,230.81 as of 05.31.2022
• Revised 2022 meeting schedule with no meetings in August and November

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee meets July 19, 2022 to vote on amending the 2021 Action Plan, reallocating $135,401.48 in unexpended CDBG Administration funds to the Livable Communities goal and transferring $147,865.75 in un-obligated NSP2 program income to the CDBG Housing goal. The committee will also vote on proposed funding for 2022 Public Facilities and Infrastructure Projects and discuss the selection process for those projects. A discussion of the HOME Investment Partnerships Program – American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) and a staff report on the Small Landlord Taskforce are also on the agenda.

• Amendment of the 2021 Action Plan to reallocate $135,401.48 in unexpended CDBG Administration funds to the Livable Communities goal
• Transfer of $147,865.75 in un-obligated NSP2 program income to CDBG for the Housing goal
• 2022 Public Facilities and Infrastructure Projects funding vote
• Discussion of the HOME Investment Partnerships Program – American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP)
• Staff report on the Small Landlord Taskforce update

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on Monday, July 18, 2022 at 4:00 PM at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The only substantive agenda item under New Business is City Council Ethics Training. The rest of the agenda is procedural: roll call, public comment, Call of the Wards, and adjournment. No ordinances, contracts, rezonings, or fee changes appear on this agenda.

• City Council Ethics Training listed as the sole New Business item
• Public comment period: 15 minutes if five or fewer speakers, otherwise 45 minutes with a three-minute limit per speaker
• Public comment can be submitted in writing in advance or by phone/video via the City Clerk's online form or 847-448-4311
• Meeting can be watched online at cityofevanston.org/channel16 or on Cable Channel 16
• Call of the Wards allows Councilmembers to announce Ward or City matters

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee meets on July 14, 2022 to approve minutes from its June 23, 2022 meeting and to review the list of referrals made to date, selecting which ones to prioritize for scheduling. The June 23 minutes show the committee voted 3-0 to send four referred items to other committees with deadlines. The July 14 agenda does not list specific referrals to be decided.

• Approval of the June 23, 2022 Referrals Committee minutes
• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date (list available online)
• June 23: Line 28 referred by Councilmember Kelly sent to Budget and Finance Committee, to be heard before end of third quarter 2022
• June 23: Line 23 referred by Councilmember Reid sent to Housing and Community Development Committee to discuss the process for that category of decision by end of third quarter 2022
• June 23: Line 24 referred by Councilmember Reid sent to Administration and Public Works before end of third quarter 2022; Line 25 referred by Councilmember Reid sent to Human Services by end of first quarter 2023

Human Services Committee

The Evanston Human Services Committee meets July 13, 2022 to vote on 2022 Emergency Solutions Grant allocations totaling $154,945 and up to $500,000 in ARPA funding for a child care workforce retention program. It will also consider two ordinances on public nudity and homeless shelters, and discuss four police-related ordinances. Recommendations go to City Council on July 25, 2022.

• 2022 Emergency Solutions Grant: $128,324 to Connections for the Homeless, $15,000 to YWCA Evanston/North Shore, $11,620 to City of Evanston
• Up to $500,000 in ARPA funding for a Child Care Workforce Retention Program for premium pay to in-person child care employees serving children ages 0-5
• Ordinance 57-O-22 amending Title 9, Chapter 5, Section 11 on public nudity and urinating or defecating in public
• Ordinance 65-O-22 modifying Title 8, Chapter 17 on shelters for the temporarily homeless
• Discussion of ordinances 54-O-22, 55-O-22, and 56-O-22 on resisting or interfering with police, reckless conduct, and obedience to police in public places

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee meets July 13, 2022 to select a committee chair, take public comment, and approve its June 2 minutes. Staff ask the committee to accept and place on file a status report on Direct Descendants reparations applicants and the July 2022 donation report. As of July 12, 2022, staff reported reviewing all 470 unique applicants: 354 verified, 116 missing documentation, and 11 who might qualify as Ancestors. As of July 11, 2022, the City reported $35,544.05 in donations to the Reparations Fund after an administrative error that had placed Medical Cannabis Tax revenue in the donations line.

• Selection of a Reparations Committee Chair
• Status report on Direct Descendants applicants: 470 reviewed, 354 verified, 116 missing documentation, 11 possibly qualifying as Ancestors
• July 2022 donation report: $35,544.05 in Reparations Fund donations as of July 11, 2022, corrected from a previously reported $69,303.79 after an administrative error
• Staff note the City cannot share 3% Cannabis Retailers' Occupation Tax statistics or allocations because fewer than 5 adult-use dispensaries operate in Evanston
• Approval of the June 2, 2022 Reparations Committee minutes

Liquor Control Review Board

The Evanston Liquor Control Review Board meets July 13, 2022 to consider five new business items: four liquor license applications for businesses on Maple Avenue, Sherman Avenue, and Orrington Avenue, and a proposed ordinance amending City Code sections on alcohol in city parks. The board will also approve minutes from its February 7, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes public comment and procedural items.

• Shop Now at 1942 Maple Avenue requests a Class L-2 (Grocery) license
• Tomo Japanese Street Food at 1729 Sherman Avenue requests a Class C (Hotel or Restaurant) license
• AMC Evanston 12 at 1715 Maple Avenue requests a Class B (Movie Theater) license
• Lao Sze Chuan at 1633 Orrington Avenue requests a Class D (Restaurant) license
• Ordinance 73-O-22 proposes amendments to Sections 7-10-3 and 3-4-6 of the City Code regarding alcohol in city parks

Preservation Commission

The Preservation Commission will consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for a new two-story single-family house and detached two-car garage at 1210 Maple Avenue in the Ridge Historic District. The proposal, continued from June 14, 2022, involves a subdivision of the parcel at 1214 Maple Avenue that was approved by City Council in late June. The meeting also includes discussion of a downtown heritage survey, commission training, and a work plan update, with no votes planned on those items.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for 1210 Maple Avenue: new two-story house and detached garage, continued from June 14, 2022
• Subdivision creating 1210 Maple Avenue from 1214 Maple Avenue was approved by City Council in late June
• Discussion of Downtown Heritage Resource Survey with three proposed survey routes
• Proposed Law-Department training on Open Meetings Act, Roberts Rules, and ethics
• Update on long-range work plan subcommittee that met July 7

Finance and Budget Committee

Evanston's Finance and Budget Committee meets virtually on July 12, 2022, to discuss how much to issue in 2022 general obligation (GO) bonds and what current interest rates mean for the City's options. The agenda also lists discussion of sub-group topics and progress, and a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) revenue program. The only action item is approval of the June 14, 2022 meeting minutes; the rest is discussion. The attached June 14 minutes are marked 'Draft.'

• Discussion of GO Bond 2022 amounts to be issued and current interest rates
• Discussion of committee sub-group topics and progress
• Discussion of a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) revenue program
• Vote to approve June 14, 2022 Budget & Finance Committee minutes
• June 14 minutes (draft) note GO bonds are the only unrestricted funding source and that parks and facilities have been underfunded for decades

Animal Welfare Board

The Evanston Animal Welfare Board meets July 12, 2022 to welcome a new Animal Warden, hear a city architect's update on a new shelter building, and discuss the current Animal Control vehicle. Members will also discuss a city pet license proposal from Councilmember Reid and a proposal to limit the number of pets in Evanston. Most items are listed for discussion, not action; the only action item is approval of the January 11, 2022 meeting minutes.

• Approval of minutes of the January 11, 2022 regular meeting (for action)
• Introduction of Caitlin Schulien as Animal Warden
• New building planning and design update from City Architect Shane Cary
• Discussion of a City Pet License Proposal from Councilmember Reid
• Discussion of a proposal to limit the number of pets in Evanston

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council meets virtually on July 12, 2022, to consider two $1,000 special project requests: Melissa Blount's Fairy Doors expansion and the Evanston Cricket Club's Jamaican Independence Day event. The council will also discuss cancelling the August meeting, get updates on the Mulford Street Viaduct Art Park and a CPAG contract for Noyes, and consider an Art Encounter mural project. A discussion item asks staff-recommended American Rescue Plan grant funding scenarios to be reviewed.

• $1,000 request from Melissa Blount to expand the Fairy Doors project across all 9 wards from August through October
• $1,000 request from Evanston Cricket Club for its August 7, 2022 Jamaican Independence Day event at James Park
• Consideration of cancelling the August Arts Council meeting because many board members are typically unavailable
• Update on the Mulford Street Viaduct Art Park idea and a CPAG contract for Noyes
• Approval of the Art Encounter mural project proposal at Main and Custer

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee is set to act on three items: an ordinance amending City Code location restrictions for tobacco sales, a special use permit for a private school at 1026 Davis Street, and a plat of resubdivision for 713 and 715 Sheridan Road. The tobacco ordinance is intended to resolve a conflict between the school permit and a rule barring tobacco sales within 150 feet of schools, which staff say could otherwise take away the tobacco license of Evanston First Liquors at 1019 Davis Street. The committee will also approve minutes from its June 13, 2022 meeting.

• Ordinance 71-O-22 would amend Section 3-14-5 to exempt Beacon Academy at 1026 Davis Street and Park School/Rice Children's Center from the 150-foot tobacco sales ban
• Ordinance 62-O-22 would grant a special use permit for a private educational institution at 1026 Davis Street in the D2 Downtown Retail Core District
• Staff say Ordinance 62-O-22 could be a 'takings' of the tobacco license held by Evanston First Liquors at 1019 Davis Street
• Resolution 46-R-22 would approve a plat of resubdivision for 713 and 715 Sheridan Road
• Penalties under the tobacco ordinance: $500 first offense, $1,000 second offense, license revocation third offense

City Council

Evanston City Council meets Monday, July 11, 2022, with committee sessions starting at 5:00pm and the full council convening at 6:30pm. The agenda includes a resolution authorizing an interim city manager contract, a $35.3 million IEPA loan for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement, and a range of consent-agenda items covering contracts, parking rules, and budget transfers. Several ordinances and resolutions are up for action or introduction, including a ranked choice voting referendum for the November 8, 2022 ballot.

• Resolution 55-R-22: appoint Interim City Manager and execute contract (Luke Stowe)
• Ordinance 70-O-22: borrow up to $35,279,939.00 from IEPA Public Water Supply Loan Program for 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement
• Resolution 49-R-22: purchase 2023 Pierce Enforcer Pumper Truck for $802,163 from MacQueen Emergency
• Resolution 48-R-22: Ridge Avenue Traffic Signal Improvement Project, $456,000 HSIP funding with $355,000 city match
• Ordinance 30-O-22: create Commercial Vehicle Permit Pilot Program, $25 permit, 20 permits per Ward, Oct 1, 2022–Sep 30, 2023

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee meets July 11, 2022 to review a consent calendar of contracts and payments and several items for consideration. Key items include borrowing up to $35,279,939 from the Illinois EPA for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement, buying a 2023 Pierce Enforcer Pumper Truck for $802,163, and a Ridge Avenue traffic signal project with $456,000 in state funding and $355,000 in local matching funds. The committee will also consider a commercial vehicle parking permit pilot program and routine payroll, bills, and credit card approvals.

• Ordinance 70-O-22: borrow up to $35,279,939.00 from the IEPA Public Water Supply Loan Program for the 1909 Raw Water Intake Replacement, repaid from the Water Fund
• Resolution 49-R-22: purchase a 2023 Pierce Enforcer Pumper Truck from MacQueen Emergency for $802,163 using $800,000 transferred from General Fund surplus
• Resolution 48-R-22: Ridge Avenue Traffic Signal Improvement Project accepting $456,000 in HSIP funding and committing $355,000 in matching funds via an IDOT joint funding agreement
• Ordinance 30-O-22: create a Commercial Vehicle Parking Permit Pilot Program from October 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023, costing $25 per permit, limited to 20 permits per Ward
• Consent calendar: payroll of $3,205,758.56, Bills List of $3,338,919.45, credit card activity of $217,123.87, and a four-year bridge inspection agreement with Ciorba Group, Inc. for $35,750

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission meets remotely on July 8, 2022, with public comment accepted only in writing or by phone/video. The commission will vote on a chair and take up unfinished business on CARP implementation and a low-income solar grant. New business includes ComEd collaboration updates, a solar power purchase agreement at Robert Crown Community Center and the pros and cons of retaining, buying, and selling Renewable Energy Certificates, a Green Building Ordinance update, and possible creation of subcommittees. Staff will report on utility reliability and water/sewer capital projects.

• Vote for Utilities Commission Chair
• Solar Power Purchase Agreement at Robert Crown Community Center — pros and cons of retaining, buying, and selling Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)
• Unfinished business: CARP Implementation and Low Income Solar Grant
• Green Building Ordinance Update
• Staff reports: monthly utility reliability (electric outages, basement backups, water main breaks, service repairs) and water & sewer fund capital improvement project status

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on Tuesday, July 5, 2022 at 11:45 AM at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The agenda consists of roll call, a public comment period, a call of the wards, a closed executive session cited under 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) for "Personnel Matters," and adjournment. No ordinances, contracts, rezonings, or fee changes appear on this agenda; the only substantive item listed is the closed personnel session.

• Closed executive session under 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) for "Personnel Matters"
• Public comment period, with 15 minutes if five or fewer speakers or 45 minutes if more, and a three-minute limit per speaker
• Call of the Wards, where councilmembers may raise Ward or City matters (Council Rule 2.1(10))
• Roll call listed for Councilmember Wynne
• No ordinances, contracts, dollar amounts, or public hearings are listed on this agenda

Special City Council Meeting

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on June 30, 2022, with a public comment period and a call of the wards. The only substantive agenda item is an executive session closed to the public, cited under 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) for "Personnel Matters." The agenda then moves to adjournment. No ordinances, contracts, rezonings, or dollar amounts appear on this agenda.

• Executive session closed to the public under 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) for "Personnel Matters"
• Public comment period, with 15 minutes if five or fewer speakers or 45 minutes if more
• Call of the Wards for councilmembers to raise Ward or City matters
• Meeting held at Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, James C. Lytle City Council Chambers, Room 2800, 11:45 AM

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee meets June 29, 2022 to consider recommending $55,739 in FY 2023 funding for Chicago's North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau and to create a Legacy Business Program subcommittee. The committee will also review draft minutes from May 31, 2022, receive a report, and hear member updates. The agenda lists no items for discussion beyond these action items.

• Recommendation to City Council for $55,739 in FY 2023 funding for Chicago's North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau, from Economic Development Partnership Account # 100.15.5300.62659
• Creation of a Legacy Business Program Sub-committee proposed by Councilmember Kelly to help retain long-standing Evanston businesses
• Approval of May 31, 2022 draft meeting minutes
• Economic Development Committee Report 6.29.22 and updates from EDC members

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Evanston Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets virtually on June 27, 2022. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the June 6, 2022 meeting, a new business section with no items listed, and a closed session for a firefighter interview. No specific decisions, contracts, or ordinances are detailed in the agenda.

• Closed session for firefighter interview
• Approval of minutes from June 6, 2022 meeting
• New business section listed but no items specified

City Council

Evanston City Council is meeting on June 27, 2022 to act on a consent agenda covering city finances, contracts, zoning, and housing. Notable items include a $1,675,000 purchase of real property at 1917-25 Jackson Avenue and 1413-25 Emerson Street, a $1,492,964 alley improvements contract, and a referendum on ranked choice voting for the November 8, 2022 ballot. The agenda also includes payroll and bills, a vending machine contract renewal, and several ordinance introductions on parking and zoning.

• Resolution 47-R-22: purchase of 1917-25 Jackson Avenue and 1413-25 Emerson Street for $1,675,000
• Contract with Capitol Cement Co., Inc. for 2022 Alley Improvements (Bid No. 22-39) at $1,492,964.00
• Resolution 39-R-22: referendum for ranked choice voting on the November 8, 2022 ballot
• Ordinance 30-O-22: Commercial Vehicle Permit Pilot Program with $200 permit for 'B' plates, October 1, 2022–September 30, 2023
• Payroll of $2,814,202.14 and Bills List of $5,686,928.21

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee meets June 27, 2022 to act on a plat of resubdivision at 1214 Maple Avenue and a special use permit for a private educational institution at 1026 Davis Street. It will also discuss an update on anti-displacement and gentrification efforts and a proposed one-year moratorium on private tree removal. The agenda includes approval of minutes from June 13, 2022.

• Resolution 43-R-22: resubdivide 1214 Maple Avenue into 2 lots (Lot 1: 9,999 sq ft, Lot 2: 8,558 sq ft)
• Ordinance 62-O-22: special use permit for a private educational institution at 1026 Davis Street in the D2 Downtown Retail Core District
• Discussion on a referral regarding anti-displacement/gentrification efforts; staff seeks no recommendation
• Discussion on the Evanston Environmental Board's proposal for a one-year moratorium on private tree removal
• Approval of minutes from the June 13, 2022 regular meeting

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee meets June 27, 2022 to review a consent calendar of contracts, purchases, and ordinances, plus two discussion items. Notable actions include a $1.675 million purchase of property at 1917-25 Jackson Avenue and 1413-25 Emerson Street, a $1,492,964 alley improvement contract, and a $100,000 agreement with Northwestern University to design a participatory budgeting process. The committee will also discuss a Canal Shores lease with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and a potential snow removal program.

• Resolution 47-R-22: purchase of 1917-25 Jackson Avenue and 1413-25 Emerson Street for $1,675,000
• Contract with Capitol Cement Co., Inc. for 2022 Alley Improvements (Bid No. 22-39) for $1,492,964.00
• Sole-source agreement with Northwestern University to design participatory budgeting process, up to $100,000
• Resolution 45-R-22: hire participatory budgeting staff for about 16 months, up to $200,000
• Ordinance 30-O-22: create Commercial Vehicle Permit Pilot Program with $200 permit for 'B' plates

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee meets Thursday, June 23, 2022 at 8:30 AM to approve its June 9 minutes and review the list of referrals made to date, selecting which ones to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda itself lists no specific referrals, dollar amounts, or ordinances for this meeting. The attached June 9 minutes show that meeting assigned four referral lines: Line 21 and Line 22 (both referred by Councilmember Reid) to Finance and Budget for the first quarter of 2023, Line 26 (referred by Mayor Biss) to Rules for the third quarter of 2023, and Line 27 (referred by Councilmember Revelle) to the June 27 Council agenda.

• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date, with committee members selecting which to prioritize
• Approval of the June 9, 2022 Referrals Committee minutes
• June 9 minutes: Line 21 (Councilmember Reid) assigned to Finance and Budget, first quarter 2023
• June 9 minutes: Line 22 (Councilmember Reid) assigned to Finance and Budget, first quarter 2023
• June 9 minutes: Line 26 (Mayor Biss) assigned to Rules, third quarter 2023; Line 27 (Councilmember Revelle) assigned to the June 27 Council agenda

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee meets June 21, 2022 to vote on three funding recommendations. Members will consider $1,000,000 in ARPA funds for the Evanston One-Stop Housing Retrofit Pilot Program, a funding recommendation for the Family Focus Evanston Center Revitalization, and a vote to recommend the updated draft 2022 Action Plan incorporating 2022 entitlement grant amounts to City Council. The meeting is held virtually on Zoom at 7:00 PM.

• $1,000,000 ARPA funding request for the Evanston One-Stop Housing Retrofit Pilot Program, a 2-year pilot to serve up to 50 housing units
• Funding recommendation for the Family Focus Evanston Center Revitalization (supplemental materials)
• Vote to recommend approval of the updated draft 2022 Action Plan incorporating 2022 entitlement grant amounts to City Council
• Approval of May 17, 2022 meeting minutes
• Public comment available by written submission, phone, or video

M/W/EBE Development Committee

The M/W/EBE Development Committee meets June 15, 2022 to review staff tracking reports on minority, women and Evanston business enterprise participation and to take up a request from Clearwater Contracting, Inc. to waive the one-year Evanston residency requirement so it can bid as an Evanston Based Enterprise on the 2022 Water Main Improvement and Street Resurfacing Project. The committee will also review the Local Employment Program penalty fund balance and consider a proposal for the City to self-certify local businesses. The agenda also includes approval of the March 16, 2022 draft minutes.

• Clearwater Contracting, Inc. seeks a waiver of the one-year Evanston Based Enterprise requirement; it agrees to employ Evanston residents for at least 15% of site hours under the Local Employment Program
• LEP Penalty Fund balance reported at $61,230.81 as of 5/31/2022
• 2022 M/W/EBE goal compliance report lists projects including the $6,127,657.40 2022 Water Main Improvements & St. Resurfacing Project and the $1,297,699.00 2022 Rebuild IL/MFT St. Resurfacing Project
• Discussion of a possible City of Evanston self-certification process for local businesses, with 60201 and 60202 zip codes qualifying and 60203 not qualifying
• Approval of the March 16, 2022 draft minutes

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council meets virtually on June 14, 2022 to vote on two $1,000 Special Project Grants, additional funding and a design for a sculpture at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, a mural project, and a sculpture lease renewal. It will also discuss delaying Fountain Square public art to pursue NEA matching funds and select a Cultural Fund Grant funding scenario. The meeting is held remotely under Mayor Daniel Biss' declaration suspending in-person attendance requirements.

• PEER Services requests a $1,000 Special Project Grant for art therapy groups and a client-artwork exhibition in its waiting room
• Her Rising Initiative requests a $1,000 Special Project Grant for its Girls Who Lead leadership event for grades 6-8
• Chicago Public Art Group requests an additional $5,700 for the Noyes Cultural Arts Center outdoor sculpture, covering materials, installation, and labor
• Votes on the Noyes sculpture design, an Art Encounter mural project at Main Street and Custer Street, and lease renewal for two sculptures ('Magical Thinking' and 'The Beehive') with Chicago Sculpture International
• Staff recommends delaying the Fountain Square public art commission to apply for NEA matching funds, and asks the Council to pick a Cultural Fund Grant funding scenario

Finance and Budget Committee

The Finance and Budget Committee meets June 14 to discuss the 2022 General Obligation bond amounts, PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) money, monthly financials and structure, and focus areas for further work. It will also vote on minutes from the May 10, 2022 meeting. The agenda is discussion-only for the listed items; no votes on the bond or PILOT items are scheduled.

• Discussion of GO Bond 2022 Amounts
• Discussion of PILOT Money
• Discussion of Monthly Financials/Structure
• Discussion of Focus Areas for Further Work
• Approval of May 10, 2022 Budget & Finance Committee Meeting Minutes

Preservation Commission

The Preservation Commission meets June 14, 2022 to review several requests in Evanston's historic districts. Most are Certificates of Appropriateness for home additions, garages, and demolitions; two are advisory reviews of proposed subdivisions at 713/715 Sheridan Road and 1214 Maple Avenue, where the Commission only recommends and City Council decides. One case, 1018 Greenwood Street, was withdrawn by the applicant and needs no action. The agenda also includes approval of May 10, 2022 minutes and a no-vote discussion on Downtown Heritage Resources.

• 1018 Greenwood Street (Ridge Historic District, 22PRES-0032): withdrawn by owner David Salzman; no action required
• 713/715 Sheridan Road (Lakeshore Historic District, 22PRES-0084): advisory review of a proposed subdivision/land swap between the two properties; 715 Sheridan Road is a Landmark
• 1214 Maple Avenue (Ridge Historic District, 22PRES-0085): advisory review of a proposed subdivision; owner Devon Herrick
• 1210 Maple Avenue (Ridge Historic District, 22PRES-0081): Certificate of Appropriateness for a new two-story single-family home and detached two-car garage on a proposed subdivision of 1214 Maple Avenue
• 650 Forest Avenue (Lakeshore Historic District, 22PRES-0080): Certificate of Appropriateness to demolish a two-story rear addition and build a new addition and deck

City Council

Evanston City Council meets June 13, 2022 to act on a consent agenda covering payroll and bills, several sole-source and change-order contracts, zoning and parking ordinances, and $3,000,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding for the McGaw YMCA Men's Residence Renovation at 1000 Grove Street. The agenda also includes a proposed amendment to council rules on COVID-19 vaccination and testing, and an honorary street name for part of Simpson St. Some items are for introduction rather than final action, and one truck-route ordinance is recommended to be tabled until July 11, 2022.

• $3,000,000 in ARPA funding for the McGaw YMCA Men's Residence Renovation at 1000 Grove Street
• Payroll of $2,852,071.11, Bills List of $8,219,238.08, and credit card activity of $222,338.77
• Sole-source contract with Garland/DBS, Inc. for Civic Center gutter and downspout repairs, $100,341.50
• Change Order No. 1 with LS Contracting Group, Inc. for Parking Garage Structural Repairs, $25,600, raising the contract from $1,002,947.00 to $1,028,547
• Ordinance 30-O-22 creating a Commercial Vehicle Permit Pilot Program with permits at $30 and $350, limited to 200 citywide

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee meets June 13, 2022 to consider three zoning-related ordinances and discuss rental registration and anti-displacement efforts. Two ordinances would update the city code to replace the dissolved Zoning Board of Appeals and Plan Commission with the Land Use Commission and dissolve the formal Design and Project Review committee structure. A third ordinance would deny adding billboards as a special use, following a Land Use Commission recommendation. The committee will also discuss a subcommittee memo on rental licensing versus registration and receive an update on anti-displacement/gentrification efforts.

• Ordinance 52-O-22: text amendment replacing references to the dissolved Zoning Board of Appeals and Plan Commission with the Land Use Commission (for introduction)
• Ordinance 34-O-22: amends Title 4, Chapter 14 to dissolve the formal Design and Project Review (DAPR) committee structure while keeping its projects and evaluation measures (for introduction)
• Ordinance 53-O-22: would add 'Billboards' as a special use in all zoning districts; Land Use Commission recommends denial, finding it does not meet the Comprehensive General Plan (for introduction)
• Discussion of a subcommittee memo on rental registration and licensing, moved to the full committee for direction to staff
• Communication on a referral by Councilmember Burns regarding anti-displacement and gentrification efforts; staff seeks no recommendation at this time

Administration & Public Works Committee - Jun 13 2022 - 4:30

The Administration & Public Works Committee meets June 13, 2022, to review minutes, hear public comment, and act on a consent calendar of payments and contracts. Items include approval of the City's payroll, bills list, and credit card activity, plus sole-source contracts for Civic Center gutter repairs and Fire Department physicals, and change orders for parking garage repairs and a relocation feasibility study. The committee will also consider a resolution for Poplar Avenue improvements, an ordinance on truck routes (recommended to be tabled), and a new commercial vehicle parking permit pilot program.

• Payroll of $2,852,071.11 and Bills List of $8,219,238.08 for June 14, 2022
• Sole-source contract with Garland/DBS for Civic Center gutter repairs at $100,341.50
• Sole-source contract with Health Endeavors, S.C. for Fire Department physicals at $41,511
• Change Order No. 1 with LS Contracting Group for parking garage repairs at $25,600, increasing contract to $1,028,547
• Ordinance 30-O-22 creating a Commercial Vehicle Permit Pilot Program with permits at $30 and $350, limited to 200 citywide

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission meets remotely on June 10, 2022, with public comment available only by phone or video. The agenda includes a possible vote on a statement of support for the "Evanston One-Stop Housing Retrofit Pilot Program" ARPA proposal, plus a vote for commission chair. Members will also hear updates on ComEd franchise negotiations, CARP implementation, a low income solar grant, and staff reports on utility reliability and water/sewer capital projects.

• Possible action on a statement of support for the "Evanston One-Stop Housing Retrofit Pilot Program" ARPA proposal
• Vote for Utilities Commission Chair
• ComEd franchise negotiations update
• CARP implementation and Low Income Solar Grant updates
• Staff report on electric outages, basement backups, water main breaks, and water/sewer capital project status

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee meets June 9, 2022 to vote on two funding items. One allocates $154,945 in federal Emergency Solutions Grant money to homeless housing and services. The other would spend up to $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds on premium pay for child care workers. Both recommendations would then go to the Human Services Committee on July 5 and City Council on July 25, 2022.

• 2022 Emergency Solutions Grant: $154,945 total, with $128,324 to Connections for the Homeless and $15,000 to YWCA Evanston/North Shore, plus $11,621 for City administration
• ARPA Childcare Provider Retention Pay Program: up to $500,000 in premium pay, $600 to $1,200 per eligible staff member
• ESG allocations: 10% street outreach, 32.5% emergency shelter, 15% homeless prevention, 35% rapid re-housing
• Meeting held remotely via Zoom; residents may comment by phone, video, or written form, not in person
• Minutes of the May 12, 2022 meeting are up for approval

Referrals Committee

The Evanston, IL Referrals Committee meets Thursday, June 9, 2022 at 8:30 AM. The agenda lists approval of the June 9 minutes and a review and scheduling of referrals, in which committee members review the list of referrals made to date and select those to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda itself does not name specific referrals to be considered at this meeting.

• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of June 9 (the agenda also links May 26, 2022 minutes)
• Review and scheduling of referrals: members review the list of referrals made to date and select which to prioritize for scheduling

Human Services Committee

Evanston's Human Services Committee meets June 6, 2022 to act on a slate of ordinances that would delete or modify city code provisions on obedience to police, resisting or interfering with police, reckless conduct, public nudity and public urination/defecation, and alcohol and cannabis consumption on public property. The committee will also consider an honorary street name for Simpson St. between Darrow Ave. and Dewey Ave., changes to park hours and noise rules, ending public distribution of arrest names and addresses in the daily crime bulletin, and a fireworks policy discussion. Most items are listed 'For Action,' meaning the committee may vote to recommend them to the City Council.

• Resolution 38-R-22: honorary street name 'JoAnn Avery Way' for Simpson St. between Darrow Ave. and Dewey Ave.; three signs cost about $200 from a Public Works materials fund with a FY2022 budget of $58,000
• Ordinance 56-O-22: delete City Code 9-5-18-1 'Obedience to Police in Public Places'
• Ordinance 54-O-22: modify City Code 9-5-18-4 'Resisting or Interfering with Police'
• Ordinance 55-O-22: delete City Code 9-5-14 'Reckless Conduct'; Ordinance 57-O-22: amend 9-5-11 'Public Nudity; Urinating or Defecating in Public'
• Ordinance 19-O-22: amend noise rules 9-5-20 and nuisance code 8-3-1(A); Ordinance 59-O-22: modify park hours 7-10-2; Ordinance 58-O-22: amend 9-5-10 on alcohol and cannabis on public property

Rules Committee

The Evanston Rules Committee meets June 6, 2022 to act on several resolutions and ordinances, including Resolution 39-R-22, which would instruct the City Clerk to place a binding ranked-choice voting referendum on the November 8, 2022 ballot. Members will also consider FOIA officer changes, amendments to the Economic Development Committee and City Manager sections of the City Code, and an official misconduct ordinance. Two discussion items cover alternative forms of municipal government and the role of council members in the manager form of government.

• Resolution 39-R-22: ranked-choice voting referendum for the November 8, 2022 ballot, to begin with the April 2025 consolidated election
• Resolution 40-R-22: amending designated Freedom of Information Act officers for the City of Evanston
• Ordinance 21-O-22: amending Title 2 Chapter 18 concerning the Economic Development Committee
• Ordinance 47-O-22: amending Title 1, Chapter 8, "City Manager" of the City Code
• Ordinance 51-O-22: amending Title 1, Chapter 10, Section 5, "Official Misconduct"

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets June 6, 2022 to approve its May 12 minutes, appoint a new chair, and affirm the 2022 entry level police recruitment process. It will then go into closed session for lateral police officer and firefighter paramedic candidate interviews, returning to public session for appointment decisions. The agenda lists no dollar amounts, ordinances, or public hearings.

• Appointment of a new commission chair
• Affirmation of the 2022 entry level police recruitment process
• Closed session interviews for lateral police officer and firefighter paramedic candidates
• Return to public session for appointment decisions
• Approval of May 12, 2022 meeting minutes

Special City Council Meeting - Jun 04 2022 - 2pm

Evanston's City Council is holding a special meeting on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at 2:00 PM at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The agenda includes roll call, a public comment period, an executive session closed to the public under the Illinois Open Meetings Act for "Personnel Matters," and a call of the wards. No ordinances, contracts, or other substantive votes are listed on the agenda.

• Executive session under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1) for "Personnel Matters"
• Public comment period with time limits (15 minutes for five or fewer speakers; 45 minutes for more)
• Roll call listed for Councilmember Geracaris
• Call of the Wards for councilmembers to raise ward or city matters
• No contracts, rezonings, ordinances, or fee changes appear on the agenda

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee meets June 2, 2022 to accept the June 1 donation report, receive a presentation on the Evanston Project for Local Assessments of Needs (EPLAN), and discuss using various tax revenues to fund the City's Reparations Fund. The donation report shows $69,303.79 received as of June 1, 2022, an increase of $50 since April. The EPLAN presentation identifies mental health, health equity, and climate resilience as top health priorities. The tax revenue discussion covers benefits and risks of recommending sources such as the Real Estate Transfer Tax.

• Accept and place on file the June 1, 2022 Reparations Financial Donation Report showing $69,303.79 in donations
• Presentation of the Evanston Project for Local Assessments of Needs (EPLAN) with top priorities: mental health, health equity, climate resilience
• Discussion of using various tax revenues, including the Real Estate Transfer Tax, to fund the City's Reparations Fund
• Approval of the May 5, 2022 Reparations Committee meeting minutes
• First Repair Update on local, state, and national reparations efforts

Special City Council Meeting - Jun 01 2022 - 3pm

The Evanston City Council is holding a special virtual meeting at 3:00 PM on June 1, 2022. The agenda includes an executive session closed to the public under the Illinois Open Meetings Act for "Personnel Matters," followed by a public comment period and a call of the wards. No ordinances, contracts, or other substantive votes are listed on this agenda.

• Executive session under 5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1) for "Personnel Matters"
• Public comment available by phone, video, or written submission; 15 minutes if five or fewer speakers, 45 minutes if more
• Call of the Wards for councilmembers to raise ward or city matters
• Meeting held virtually via Zoom (ID 839 7138 5856)

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee meets on May 26, 2022 to approve minutes from its May 12 meeting and to review the list of referrals made to date. Members will select which referrals to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda otherwise consists of routine procedural items: call to order, public comment, and adjournment.

• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of May 12
• Review of the list of referrals made to date (available online)
• Selection of referrals to be prioritized for scheduling

Emergency City Council

Evanston's City Council meets virtually on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at 7:00 PM for an emergency session. The agenda lists an executive session closed to the public under the Illinois Open Meetings Act for "Personnel Matters" (5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1)). The only other items are roll call, public comment, call of the wards, and adjournment; no ordinances, contracts, or votes are listed on the published agenda.

• Executive session closed to the public on "Personnel Matters" under 5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1)
• Public comment by phone, video, or written submission; sign-up via the City Clerk's online form or 847-448-4311
• Meeting held virtually via Zoom (Meeting ID 869 3220 0486)
• Call of the Wards for councilmembers to raise Ward or City matters
• No substantive legislation, contracts, or fee items appear on the agenda

Economic Development Committee

The Evanston Economic Development Committee meets May 31, 2022 to vote on creating a Legacy Business Program to retain long-standing businesses and a financial assistance program for landscape companies switching to electric leaf blowers. It will also discuss a Mulford Street Viaduct Art Park, a Fair Work Week Ordinance referral, and updates to the Shopping Bag Ordinance. Several items are for action, others only for discussion.

• Legacy Business Program: staff recommends using the Business District Improvement Account (100.15.5300.65522), which has a balance of $160,540.69 from a $250,000 2022 budget allocation
• Electric leaf blower assistance: staff seeks City Council authorization for a program estimated at $30,000, not to exceed $45,000, from the Entrepreneurship Support Program (Account 100.15.5300.62664) with a $46,595.00 balance
• Mulford Street Viaduct Art Park: staff seeks direction on community engagement and collaboration with the Evanston Arts Council
• Fair Work Week Ordinance: City Council referral from August 9, 2021 by Councilmember Reid is up for discussion
• Shopping Bag Ordinance 66-O-14: staff seeks feedback on updating the ordinance

City Council

Evanston's City Council meets May 23, 2022 to vote on Resolution 37-R-22 appointing John Fournier as City Manager and authorizing the Mayor to execute his employment agreement. The consent agendas cover payroll and bills, several contracts, ordinances, and funding allocations. The Planning & Development Committee meeting was cancelled. The agenda also includes public comment and a proclamation for Violence Prevention Week (5/23-5/29/22) and Gun Violence Prevention Day (6/3/22).

• Resolution 37-R-22: appoint John Fournier as City Manager and authorize the Mayor to execute his employment agreement
• Contract award to Byrne Software Technologies, Inc. for Civic Platform Configuration (RFP 22-13) at $374,450
• Ordinance 42-O-22: $5 Wheel Tax increase, with added revenue funding the Climate Action Resilience Plan (CARP)
• Ordinance 43-O-22: Special Use Permit for a Cannabis Dispensary at 1804 Maple Avenue in the RP Research Park District
• Ordinance 26-O-22: increase FY2021 total budget by $11,554,473, from $296,146,105 to $307,700,578

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee meets May 23, 2022 to review a consent calendar and several items for consideration, including a $374,450 contract for civic platform software, a $35,000 harbor dredging agreement, and resolutions on crossing guard services and intergovernmental agreements. The committee will also consider two ordinances: one ending water shutoffs for non-payment at residential properties and one removing cannabinoids from pre-employment drug screening. Most items are recommendations for City Council action.

• Contract award to Byrne Software Technologies, Inc. for Civic Platform Configuration (RFP 22-13) at $374,450
• Payroll of $2,736,097.53 and Bills List of $3,830,945.12 for City Council approval
• 2022 Church Street Harbor dredging agreement with Kovilic Construction, Inc. at $35,000
• Resolution 34-R-22 transferring crossing guard management to District 65 starting 2022-2023, with City reimbursements through 2026-2027
• Ordinance 48-O-22 eliminating water shut off at residential properties for non-payment

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Evanston Equity and Empowerment Commission is introducing an Equity Scorecard, a tool for evaluating projects, policies, and practices through an equity lens. The agenda describes how City program leaders and the Commission would use the scorecard, including a ten-criteria review and a final recommendation vote. The document is a blank template and process description; it does not record any specific project, vote, or decision made at this meeting.

• Equity Scorecard to be used for City Council referrals on projects, policies, and practices
• Scorecard covers housing development, land use and zoning changes, budget allocations, public subsidies, and tax abatements
• Three Commission members assigned to independently review each scorecard
• Ten criteria include stakeholder engagement, root causes, adverse impacts, accessibility, and success indicators
• Final recommendation options: Strongly Support, Support with Modifications, Neutral / More Information Needed, Do Not Support

CANCELED M/W/EBE Development Committee

The M/W/EBE Development Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center was canceled. The agenda packet still lists items that would have been discussed, including approval of March 16, 2022 minutes, an NU Incubator update, staff reports on M/W/EBE tracking and the LEP fund, and a request from Clearwater Contracting for a waiver of the one-year Evanston-based business requirement. Because the meeting was canceled, no votes or decisions were taken on these items.

• Clearwater Contracting, Inc. requested a waiver of the one-year Evanston Based Enterprise requirement to bid as a subcontractor on the 2022 Water Main Improvement and Street Resurfacing Project
• LEP Penalty Fund balance reported as $60,478.75 as of April 30, 2022, unchanged from December 31, 2021
• 2022 M/W/EBE goal compliance report listed projects including Bid 22-05 Water Main Improvements & St. Resurfacing at $6,127,657.40 and Bid 22-23 Rebuild IL/MFT St. Resurfacing at $1,297,699.00
• Staff reports included the May 2022 MWEBE Tracking Report and the April 30, 2022 LEP Fund Analysis
• Old business item was an NU Incubator update; new business included the Evanston Based Business Waiver One Year Requirement

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee meets May 17, 2022 to vote on funding recommendations for three housing items, including a $3 million ARPA request for the McGaw YMCA Men's Residence Renovation. The committee will also consider funding for the Family Focus Evanston Center Revitalization and the Evanston One-Stop Housing Retrofit Pilot Program, and receive a staff update on ARPA and non-ARPA funding. City staff recommend the YMCA funding be conditioned on the YMCA nominating itself for Landmark designation and not using funds for exterior alterations visible from the public way before designation.

• $3 million ARPA funding request for McGaw YMCA Men's Residence Renovation, covering 156 SRO units and 19,000 sq ft of added space
• Staff conditions: YMCA must nominate itself for Landmark designation and not use funds for exterior alterations visible from the public way before designation
• Funding recommendation for Family Focus Evanston Center Revitalization (for action)
• Funding recommendation for Evanston One-Stop Housing Retrofit Pilot Program (for action)
• Staff update on ARPA and non-ARPA funding, including a $43.17M total ARPA budget with $19.9M allocated to date

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission is holding its regular meeting remotely on May 13, 2022, due to a state executive order suspending in-person attendance requirements. The agenda includes continued discussion of ComEd franchise negotiations under unfinished business, along with staff reports on utility reliability and water and sewer capital projects. Residents cannot comment in person but may submit written comments or sign up to speak by phone or video.

• ComEd Franchise Negotiations listed under unfinished business
• Staff report on monthly utility reliability: electric system outages, basement backups, water main breaks, service repairs
• Staff report on Water & sewer fund capital improvement project status
• Announcement of forthcoming Public Works Agency activities relative to the Utilities Commission
• Next meeting scheduled for Friday, June 10, 2022, 7:15 A.M.

Reconvene City Council Meeting of Monday, May 9, 2022

Evanston's City Council is scheduled to reconvene its Monday, May 9, 2022 meeting on Thursday, May 12, 2022 at 6:00 PM at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center. The published agenda lists only two items: roll call, led by Councilmember Burns, and adjournment. No substantive decisions, votes, or discussion items appear on this agenda. Residents may submit written comments or sign up to speak by phone or video through the City Clerk's Office.

• Roll call conducted by Councilmember Burns
• Adjournment listed as the only other agenda item
• Public comment available in advance in writing or by phone/video via the City Clerk's online sign-up form
• Meeting watchable online at cityofevanston.org/channel16 or Cable Channel 16

Referrals Committee

The Evanston, IL Referrals Committee meets on May 12, 2022 to approve minutes from its April 26 meeting and to review the list of referrals made to date. Members will select which referrals to prioritize for scheduling. The agenda does not name specific referrals or list any dollar amounts, contracts, or ordinances.

• Approval of the Referrals Committee minutes of April 26
• Review of the list of referrals made to date (available online)
• Selection of referrals to be prioritized for scheduling
• Public comment period

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee meets remotely on May 12, 2022, to hear presentations from the Youth & Young Adult Division and the Evanston Project for Local Assessment of Needs (EPLAN). The agenda also lists discussion of community needs assessments and mental health measures, plus FY2022 first quarter report updates. The only action item is approval of minutes from the April 14, 2022 meeting. The attached April minutes are a draft record of that prior meeting, not decisions before this one.

• Approval of April 14, 2022 meeting minutes (draft attached)
• Presentation: Youth & Young Adult Division
• Presentation: Evanston Project for Local Assessment of Needs (EPLAN)
• Discussion: community needs assessments and mental health measures
• Discussion: FY2022 first quarter report updates

Board of Ethics

The Evanston Board of Ethics meets May 11, 2022 to elect its chair, vice-chair and secretary, take public comment, and vote on minutes from its November 4, 2020 regular meeting. An executive session is also listed, with no topic stated in the agenda. The attached November 4, 2020 minutes show the board approved written findings and an order in case 19-BOE-007, Misty Wittenberg and Devon Reid v Mayor Hagerty.

• Election of Board of Ethics chair, vice-chair and secretary
• Approval of regular meeting minutes of November 4, 2020
• Executive session listed with no subject stated
• Public comment accepted by online form or by calling/texting 847-448-4311
• Prior minutes (11/4/2020) record approval of written findings and order in 19-BOE-007, Misty Wittenberg and Devon Reid v Mayor Hagerty

Preservation Commission

The Preservation Commission meets May 10, 2022 to review Certificates of Appropriateness for four properties in Evanston historic districts. A request for 1018 Greenwood Street was continued to June 14, 2022 to allow the applicant time to revise plans. New business includes additions and demolitions at 2330 Orrington Avenue, 1217 Michigan Avenue, 2418 Park Place, and 548 Judson Avenue. The Commission will also discuss a possible downtown heritage survey, with no vote planned.

• 1018 Greenwood Street (Ridge Historic District): second-story addition, attached garage with rooftop deck, and portico changes continued to June 14, 2022
• 2330 Orrington Avenue (Northeast Historic District): demolish rear wooden stoop, alter rear addition windows, and build a single-story bay addition
• 1217 Michigan Avenue (Lakeshore Historic District): construct a two-story detached frame garage in the rear yard
• 2418 Park Place: demolish a greenhouse addition and circular stair, build a two-story rear porch and stairway, and add a wrought-iron front railing
• 548 Judson Avenue (Lakeshore Historic District): substantial modifications to a previously approved plan for a new two-story house and coach house

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council meets virtually on May 10, 2022 to vote on two Special Project Grant requests and to accept a staff report on conflicts of interest and standards of conduct. The Council will also consider approving designs for Evanston's 4th of July and discuss its meeting format, cultural events, grant updates, and Fountain Square. Several items are listed for discussion only, including the Cultural Fund Grant and American Rescue Plan Grant update.

• Kids Create Change requests $1,000 for a Lantern Floating Ceremony at Arrington Lagoon on May 31 as part of AAPI Heritage Month
• Mark Cleveland Art requests $999 for Evanston's first annual 'Evanston Plein Air Festival' in July, expected to host up to 50 artists
• Staff recommends the Council accept and place on file a report on Requirements With Respect to Conflicts of Interest and Standards of Conduct
• Approval of Evanston 4th of July Designs is listed for consideration
• Discussion items include Arts Council meeting format, Cultural Arts and Special Events, Cultural Fund Grant and American Rescue Plan Grant update, Fountain Square update, and collaboration among art agencies

Finance and Budget Committee

The Evanston Finance and Budget Committee meets May 10, 2022 at 6:00 PM at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, Rm. 2402. The agenda lists public comment, approval of the April 12, 2022 minutes, and two discussion items: Q1/March 2022 financials and the Budget Amendment Process for 2022. The attached April 12 minutes show the committee previously split 4-3 on recommending Ordinance 26-O-22 to City Council, with a motion to table it until this May 10 meeting failing 3-4.

• Discussion of Q1/March 2022 financials, including the structure of the report
• Discussion of the Budget Amendment Process for 2022
• Approval of the April 12, 2022 Finance & Budget Committee minutes
• April 12 minutes: motion to recommend Ordinance 26-O-22 to City Council passed 4-3 (Wynne, Nieuwsma, Livingston, Reiches in favor; Kelly, Reid, McMillan opposed)
• April 12 minutes: motion to table Ordinance 26-O-22 until May 10, 2022 failed 3-4

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee will consider approving a subdivision plat for 2635 Crawford Avenue and introducing an ordinance to grant a special use permit for a cannabis dispensary at 1804 Maple Avenue. The committee will also introduce an ordinance to replace the Design and Project Review (DAPR) Committee with a staff-led review process.

• Resolution 28-R-22: Approves plat of subdivision for 2635 Crawford Avenue, creating two lots
• Ordinance 43-O-22: Grants Special Use Permit for a cannabis dispensary at 1804 Maple Avenue
• Ordinance 34-0-22: Amends City Code to replace DAPR Committee with staff review process
• Approval of minutes from the April 25, 2022 committee meeting

City Council

The Evanston City Council is reviewing a large consent agenda covering infrastructure contracts, including a $1.3 million street resurfacing project and a $337,777 engineering contract for sidewalk and streetlight improvements. The agenda also includes proposals to amend the Wheel Tax, designate new truck routes, and sell vacated alley land to adjacent property owners.

• Contract with Builders Paving, LLC for 2022 Rebuild IL/MFT Street Resurfacing: $1,297,699
• Contract with SINGH + Associates for streetlight and sidewalk engineering: $337,777
• Ordinance 42-O-22: Proposed $5 increase to the Wheel Tax to fund the Climate Action Resilience Plan
• Ordinance 16-O-22: Proposal to designate Howard Street and Custer Avenue as truck routes
• Ordinance 31-O-22: Vacating an alley east of Central Park Avenue and north of Payne Street

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Evanston Administration & Public Works Committee is reviewing a consent calendar of contracts and change orders for infrastructure projects, including a $1.3 million street resurfacing contract and a $358,740 increase to a water main project. The committee will also consider new ordinances regarding commercial vehicle parking permits and a $5 increase to the Wheel Tax to fund climate resilience efforts.

• Contract with Builders Paving, LLC for 2022 street resurfacing: $1,297,699
• Change Order No. 1 for 30-Inch Transmission Main Project: $358,740
• Ordinance 30-O-22: New $30/year Commercial Vehicle Parking Permit
• Ordinance 42-O-22: $5 increase to Wheel Tax for Climate Action Resilience Plan
• Contract with SINGH + Associates for streetlight and sidewalk improvements: $337,777

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council held a special meeting primarily to conduct an executive session regarding personnel matters under state law. The agenda included standard procedural items such as roll call, public comment, and a call of the wards, but listed no specific legislative decisions or public hearings.

• Executive session on personnel matters (5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1))
• Public comment period available via phone, video, or written submission
• Call of the Wards for councilmember announcements

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee is meeting to discuss a proposed $2.6 million budget increase for its Restorative Housing Program. This increase would fund 106 additional beneficiaries in the 'Ancestor' category, expanding the program beyond its original $400,000 budget. The committee will also review financial donation reports and updates on the first sixteen beneficiaries.

• Proposed $2.6 million budget increase for Restorative Housing Program
• Funding for 106 remaining 'Ancestor' category beneficiaries
• Reparations Fund received $69,253.79 in donations as of May 1, 2022
• Original program budget was $400,000 for 16 recipients
• Staff recommends using General Obligation bonds or no-interest loans for funding

Citizen Police Review Commission

The Citizen Police Review Commission is scheduled to review two internal police investigations: Complaint Register #21-03 and Department Inquiry #21-02. Staff recommends the Commission determine that both investigations were complete, thorough, objective, and fair. The meeting also includes a motion to convene in executive session to discuss personnel matters related to these cases.

• Review of Complaint Register #21-03: Allegations regarding a traffic stop on Dewey Avenue involving child safety seat inspections; staff recommends finding the investigation complete and fair.
• Review of Department Inquiry #21-02: Allegations regarding an incident on the 1600 block of Foster involving juveniles; staff recommends finding the investigation complete and fair.
• Motion to convene into Executive Session to discuss personnel matters under the Open Meetings Act.

Human Services Committee

The Human Services Committee is reviewing recommendations for FY2022 funding allocations totaling approximately $1.02 million for case management and safety net services. The committee will also discuss a new five-year community health needs assessment plan (EPLAN) and consider deleting two outdated sections from the City Code regarding transient photographers and burglar's tools. Additionally, the committee will review a police complaints report and discuss a referral regarding park closure policies.

• Recommendation to approve $736,373 from the Human Services Fund and $285,365 from Community Development Block Grants for Case Management and Safety Net Services
• Discussion of EPLAN, a five-year community health needs assessment prioritizing mental health, health equity, and climate resiliency
• Ordinance 44-O-22 to delete Title 3, Chapter 11, Section 8 'Photographers, Transient' from the City Code
• Ordinance 46-O-22 to delete Title 9, Chapter 5, Section 2 'Burglar’s Tools' from the City Code
• Review of the Evanston Police Complaints and Comments Report

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Evanston Public Safety Civil Service Commission met virtually to approve past meeting minutes and discuss a proposed rule change for the regular police recruitment process. The agenda also included a closed session for lateral police officer interviews.

• Discussion regarding proposed rule change relating to regular police recruitment process
• Closed session for lateral police officer interviews
• Approval of minutes from 3/18/2022 and updated 11/11/2021 meetings

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Equity and Empowerment Commission is reviewing the Evanston Equity Scorecard, a framework designed to assess city projects and policies through an equity lens. The document outlines a ten-point evaluation process covering stakeholder engagement, identification of inequities, and accessibility. It defines how Commission members will review proposals and submit recommendations to City Council and other city leadership.

• Review of the Evanston Equity Scorecard framework
• Ten-point criteria for evaluating equity in city projects
• Process for Commission members to review and vote on proposals
• Application to zoning, housing, budget, and policy drafting

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is reviewing several contracts and funding requests to support local businesses. Key items include a $760,000 sole-source grant for a retail incubator program and a $245,000 consulting contract for business district improvements. The committee will also discuss proposals for a shared commercial kitchen and changes to city code regarding hookah lounges.

• Sole source grant agreement with 37 Oaks Consulting for $760,000 to implement an Evanston Retail Incubator Program
• Contract with Interface Studio, LLC for $245,000 to provide Evanston Business District Improvement Strategy consulting
• Financial assistance up to $6,613 for Nature's Perspective at 2000 Greenleaf Street for equipment installation
• Financial assistance up to $1,403.75 for The Musical Offering at 743 Custer Ave. for signage and graphics
• Proposal for Upsy-Daisy Café to operate a café at the Arrington Lagoon Building

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council convened for a special virtual meeting on April 26, 2022. The agenda included a roll call, an executive session regarding personnel matters under state law, and standard procedural items like public comment and adjournment. No substantive policy decisions, votes, or public hearings on specific projects were listed in the agenda.

• Executive session on 'Personnel Matters' under 5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1)
• Virtual meeting held at Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center
• Public comment period available via phone, video, or written submission

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee is meeting to approve previous minutes and review the status of outstanding referrals. The committee will discuss how to schedule future meetings and prioritize which referrals to address next. No specific new projects, contracts, or ordinances are listed for decision.

• Approval of April 7, 2022 minutes
• Review of outstanding items on the Referrals Tracker
• Selection of referrals for prioritized scheduling
• Discussion of regular scheduling for future referrals meetings

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee is reviewing a consent calendar of contracts, including a $6.1 million agreement for water main improvements and street resurfacing. The agenda also proposes several ordinances to vacate a public alley near Central Park Avenue and sell the resulting land to adjacent property owners. Additionally, the committee will consider a new commercial vehicle parking permit and approve payroll and landscape maintenance contracts.

• Contract with Joel Kennedy Construction Corp. for 2022 Water Main Improvements and Street Resurfacing Project: $6,127,657.40
• Ordinance 31-O-22: Vacating the North-South Alley East of Central Park Avenue and North of Payne Street
• Ordinance 30-O-22: Amending City Code to add a Commercial Vehicle Parking Permit ($30 per vehicle per year)
• Contract with Christy Webber & Company Landscape for 2022 Citywide Landscape Maintenance: $83,975.00
• Ordinance 33-O-22: Approval of the Proposed First Amendment to the Five-Fifths Redevelopment Project Area

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee will consider introducing Ordinance 34-0-22, which proposes eliminating the Design and Project Review (DAPR) Committee and replacing it with a staff-led review process. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the previous meeting and a public comment period. No new zoning or contract decisions are scheduled for action at this specific meeting.

• Ordinance 34-0-22: Proposal to amend City Code Title 4, Chapter 14 to replace the DAPR Committee with staff review and appeal provisions
• Approval of minutes from the April 11, 2022 Planning & Development Committee meeting
• Public comment period for residents to submit written comments or sign up for phone/video comments

City Council

The Evanston City Council will vote on a $6.1 million contract for water main improvements and street resurfacing. The agenda also includes updates on the Reparations Restorative Housing Program and a resolution declaring a climate emergency. Several ordinances are proposed to amend building codes, designate new truck routes, and sell vacated alley land to adjacent property owners.

• Contract with Joel Kennedy Construction Corp. for 2022 Water Main Improvements and Street Resurfacing ($6,127,657.40)
• Resolution 32-R-22 declaring a Climate Emergency and Immediate Mobilization Effort
• Update on the Evanston Reparation’s Restorative Housing Program
• Ordinance 30-O-22 creating a $30/year Commercial Vehicle Parking Permit
• Ordinance 16-O-22 adding Howard Street and Custer Avenue as designated truck routes

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council held a special meeting on April 22, 2022, primarily to conduct an executive session regarding personnel matters under Illinois law. The agenda included standard procedural items such as roll call, public comment, and adjournment, but listed no specific legislative actions, votes, or public hearings.

• Executive session on personnel matters (5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1))
• Public comment period available via phone, video, or written submission
• Virtual meeting held at Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee is meeting to discuss and recommend funding for several housing initiatives. The primary item is a $3,000,000 request from the McGaw YMCA to renovate its Men's Residence at 1000 Grove Street using American Rescue Plan Act funds. The committee will also review a $200,000 renewal for the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance program and approve the transfer of $145,591.50 in unobligated grant income to close out a federal grant.

• Discussion of $3,000,000 funding request for McGaw YMCA Men's Residence renovation at 1000 Grove Street
• Approval of up to $200,000 for Tenant-Based Rental Assistance program renewal administered by Connections for the Homeless
• Transfer of $145,591.50 in Neighborhood Stabilization Program 2 income to Community Development Block Grant
• Minor amendment to Administrative Rules and Procedures regarding motion requirements
• Staff updates on Small Landlord Taskforce and One-stop-shop Retrofit Program

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee is meeting to recommend FY2022 funding allocations for Case Management and Safety Net Services. Staff proposes using $736,373 from the Human Services Fund and an estimated $285,375 from Community Development Block Grants, totaling approximately $1.02 million. These recommendations will be forwarded to the Human Services Committee and City Council for final approval in May.

• Recommendation of $1,021,748 total estimated funds for 2022 social service allocations
• Allocation of $292,500 for Case Management services
• Allocation of $518,700 for Safety Net services
• Update on ARPA Living Room Program
• Review of 2021 outcomes for agencies including Moran Center, North Shore Senior Center, and YOU

Preservation Commission

The Evanston Preservation Commission is scheduled to review applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for three properties in historic districts. The agenda lists proposals for a front-porch addition at 1322 Lake Street, porch enclosure and solar panel installation at 1211 Hinman Avenue, and a second-story addition and garage at 1018 Greenwood Street. Staff reports on a long-range work plan and Preservation Month events are also on the agenda.

• 1322 Lake Street: Request for Certificate of Appropriateness to construct a front-porch addition in the Ridge Historic District.
• 1211 Hinman Avenue: Request for Certificate of Appropriateness to enclose a side-entry porch, alter windows, and install solar panels in the Lakeshore Historic District.
• 1018 Greenwood Street: Request for Certificate of Appropriateness for a second-story addition, attached garage with rooftop deck, and front portico alteration in the Ridge Historic District.
• Staff report on a draft Long-Range Work Plan for Commission review in May.
• Staff report on Preservation Month events planned for May.

Finance and Budget Committee

The Finance and Budget Committee reviewed a presentation on property tax levies and rates by the CFO. The committee also considered Ordinance 26-O-22, which amends the Fiscal Year 2021 budget to reconcile fund-level expenses that exceeded original estimates. The amendment increases the total 2021 budget by $11,554,473, though the city reported an overall savings of $30,137,148 for the year.

• Discussion of property taxes by CFO Hitesh Desai, noting the City receives 17 cents of every dollar paid in property tax
• Approval of Ordinance 26-O-22 to amend the FY 2021 budget by $11,554,473
• General Fund expenses exceeded budget by $1,962,275 due to items like termination payouts and cybersecurity costs
• American Rescue Plan Fund expenses exceeded budget by $4,800,000 for water, sewer, and vehicle projects
• Police Pension Fund expenses exceeded budget by $615,975 due to portability payments for officers

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council will vote on two Special Project Grant requests, each seeking $1,000 for local arts programs. The agenda also includes a discussion on establishing a formal application process for public art approvals and a vote to approve the Council's amended bylaws.

• Vote on $1,000 grant for Identity (Performing Arts) dance program
• Vote on $1,000 grant for Innovate summer camp programming
• Discussion on new application process for public art review
• Vote to approve Evanston Arts Council Amended Bylaws
• Update on Fountain Square RFQ which received only three responses

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee is reviewing a consent calendar of contracts for city services, including shoreline repairs and water plant improvements. The agenda also includes proposed ordinances to update building codes, designate new truck routes, and create commercial vehicle parking permits. Additionally, staff will discuss options for modifying the wheel tax and proposals for soccer pitches on city-owned land.

• Contract with Garland/DBS for Water Plant Head House roof and masonry improvements ($707,281)
• Ordinance 16-O-22 to designate Howard Street and Custer Avenue as truck routes
• Ordinance 29-O-22 to update city building and fire codes to 2021 ICC model codes
• Ordinance 30-O-22 to create a $30 annual Commercial Vehicle Parking Permit
• Contract with SmithGroup, Inc. for Evanston Shoreline Repairs ($333,000)

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee is reviewing a request to extend the deadline for the Housing Subcommittee to recommend changes to Ordinance 83-O-21, which would move dwelling occupancy rules from the Zoning Code to the Housing Code. The committee also plans to approve a plat of subdivision for 1224 Washington Street and introduce a special use permit for a resale establishment at 2424 Oakton Street.

• Extension request for Ordinance 83-O-21 regarding occupancy limits and family definitions
• Resolution 22-R-22 approving plat of subdivision for 1224 Washington Street
• Ordinance 28-O-22 granting Special Use Permit for resale establishment at 2424 Oakton Street
• Approval of minutes from the March 14, 2022 committee meeting

City Council

The Evanston City Council agenda includes several major funding decisions, primarily authorizing American Rescue Plan Act grants for local arts and community organizations. Staff also recommends approving contracts for shoreline repairs, water plant improvements, and various landscaping services. Additionally, the council will review ordinances regarding truck routes, building codes, and a proposed extension for a housing occupancy study.

• Resolution 30-R-22: Authorize $2 million grant to Northlight Theatre for a new performing arts center
• Resolution 31-R-22: Authorize $1 million grant to The Aux for renovating 2223 Washington Street
• Contract award: $333,000 to SmithGroup, Inc. for Evanston Shoreline Repairs
• Contract award: $707,281 to Garland/DBS for Water Plant Head House roof and masonry improvements
• Ordinance 16-O-22: Designate Howard Street and Custer Avenue as truck routes

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

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Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission meets to discuss public confidence in city water additives and unfinished negotiations regarding the ComEd franchise agreement. Staff will also present reports on utility reliability, including outages and repairs, as well as the status of water and sewer capital improvement projects.

• Discussion of city water public confidence and additives
• Unfinished business: ComEd Franchise Negotiations
• Staff report on monthly utility reliability (outages, backups, breaks)
• Staff report on Water & Sewer Fund capital improvement status

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council is holding a special meeting that includes an executive session to discuss personnel matters under state law. The agenda also provides time for public comment and a call of the wards for aldermen to raise local issues. No specific ordinances, contracts, or rezonings are listed for decision in this agenda.

• Executive session regarding 'Personnel Matters' (5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1))
• Public comment period with sign-up instructions
• Call of the Wards for aldermen to announce ward matters

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee will review its list of public referrals to decide which items to schedule for further discussion. The agenda specifically highlights Criminal Justice Reforms and Pet Owners License Provisions for prioritization. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the previous February 17 session.

• Review and scheduling of Criminal Justice Reforms referrals
• Review and scheduling of Pet Owners License Provisions referrals
• Approval of minutes from the February 17, 2022 meeting

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee reviewed staff updates on the orientation of the first sixteen reparations beneficiaries and the verification status of direct descendant applicants. Staff reported that 113 of 474 applicants have been verified, while 312 remain unreviewed. The committee also accepted a financial report showing $69,253.79 in donations to the Reparations Fund as of April 1, 2022.

• Update on orientation for first 16 reparations beneficiaries: 6 chose Home Improvement, 5 chose Mortgage Assistance and Home Improvement, 2 chose Mortgage Assistance, 1 chose Home Purchase, 2 undecided
• Verification status of Direct Descendants applicants: 113 verified, 39 need follow-up, 10 unverifiable, 312 not reviewed (out of 474 total)
• Reparations Financial Donation Report: $69,253.79 total donations received as of April 1, 2022
• Rebuilding Together grant: $20,000 from Evanston Foundation to aid home repairs for qualifying beneficiaries
• Tax implications review: Law department hired Tax Law Offices Inc to provide guidance on tax consequences of reparations benefits

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council convened for a special meeting on April 6, 2022. The agenda included a roll call, an executive session regarding personnel matters under state law, public comment, and a call of the wards before adjourning. No specific ordinances, contracts, or rezonings were listed for public debate in this agenda.

• Executive session on 'Personnel Matters' under 5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1)
• Public comment period available via phone, video, or written submission
• Call of the Wards for aldermen to announce ward or city matters

Citizen Police Review Commission

The Citizen Police Review Commission will review the internal investigation of Complaint Register #20-02, which involves allegations of disrespect and procedural errors during an arrest. Staff recommend the Commission determine the investigation was complete, thorough, objective, and fair. The Commission will also vote on whether to convene in executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the complaint.

• Review of Complaint Register #20-02 regarding EPD detectives and a prayer mat incident
• Staff recommendation to deem the internal investigation complete and fair
• Motion to convene into Executive Session for personnel discussions
• Approval of minutes from the March 2, 2022 meeting

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council held a special meeting on April 5, 2022. The agenda included a roll call, an executive session regarding personnel matters under state law, public comment, and a call of the wards. No substantive policy decisions or votes were scheduled for this meeting.

• Executive session on 'Personnel Matters' under 5 ILCS 120/2 (C)(1)
• Public comment period with standard time limits
• Call of the Wards for councilmember announcements

Human Services Committee

The Evanston Human Services Committee is scheduled to consider Ordinance 19-O-22, which amends the city's noise code to set specific decibel limits and require permits for loudspeakers. The committee will also review reports on Evanston Police Department staffing vacancies, crime data trends, and recent police complaints.

• Ordinance 19-O-22: Amends City Code 9-5-20 'Noises Prohibited' to define noise limits (55 dB(A) at 750 feet) and require loudspeaker permits.
• Loudspeaker Permit Application: Requires submission 14 days prior to events; prohibits permits within 150 feet of residential zones.
• Police Staffing Report: Details vacancies (15 sworn, 10 civilian in 2021) and notes a shift in crime reporting methodology from UCR to NIBRS.
• Police Complaints Report: Summarizes one new complaint (DI #21-01) and lists pending inquiries and complaint registers.

Rules Committee

The Evanston Rules Committee is scheduled to approve committee assignments and update the Lighthouse Landing Complex Committee membership. The committee will also discuss proposed amendments to the City Code of Ethics to include Healthy Workplace and Anti-Harassment Policies for all covered persons.

• Approval of proposed committee assignments and chair schedules for 2022-2025
• Resolution 26-R-22 updating the Lighthouse Landing Complex Committee title and membership
• Discussion of amendments to the Evanston Code of Ethics regarding anti-harassment policies
• Approval of minutes from December 6, 2021, and January 19, 2022 meetings

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Equity and Empowerment Commission is reviewing the Evanston Equity Scorecard, a framework designed to assess city projects, policies, and practices through an equity lens. The document outlines a ten-point criteria checklist covering stakeholder engagement, identification of inequities, and accessibility. It details the process where three commission members independently review a project before submitting a final recommendation to city leadership.

• Review of the Evanston Equity Scorecard framework
• Ten-point criteria checklist for equity analysis
• Process for commission members to review city projects
• Final recommendation options: Strongly Support, Support with Modifications, Neutral, Do Not Support

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will vote on a contract with Herrera Landscape Snow Removal for $82,161 to provide landscaping services in Evanston business districts. Staff also recommends approving $14,020.50 in financial assistance through the Great Merchants Grant Program. The meeting includes discussions on potential funding for a shared commercial kitchen, advisory boards for Tax Increment Finance Districts, and a Mulford Street Viaduct Placemaking Plan.

• Contract with Herrera Landscape Snow Removal for $82,161
• Great Merchants Grant Program funding totaling $14,020.50
• Discussion on City financial support for a Shared Commercial Kitchen
• Discussion on Community Member Advisory Boards for TIF Districts
• Discussion on funding for Mulford Street Viaduct Placemaking Plan

City Council

The Evanston City Council will vote on several contracts and resolutions, including a $900,000 allocation for a mental health crisis care facility and a $1 million contract for parking garage repairs. The agenda also includes approvals for street maintenance contracts, vehicle purchases, and an intergovernmental agreement with local school districts. The Planning & Development Committee meeting was canceled.

• Approval of up to $900,000 in ARPA funds for a 'Living Room' mental health crisis care center
• Contract award to LS Contracting Group for $1,002,947 for Parking Garage Structural Repairs
• Contract with Salas O’Brien for $185,000 for Noyes Cultural Arts Center HVAC feasibility study
• Resolution authorizing an intergovernmental agreement with Evanston Township High School District No. 202 and Evanston/Skokie School District No. 65
• Approval of a $700,000 contract with J.A. Johnson Paving Company for 2022 street patching

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee reviewed a resolution to apply for a $13.3 million federal grant for Chicago Avenue corridor improvements, which would require a $2.6 million local match. The committee also approved contracts for parking garage structural repairs, new electric vehicles, and pavement maintenance programs. Additionally, staff presented a zero-emissions strategy for municipal operations and discussed resuming water shut-offs for non-payment.

• Resolution 23-R-22: Apply for RAISE Grant for Chicago Avenue Corridor Improvements (total est. $13,374,300; city share $2,674,860)
• Contract with LS Contracting Group for Parking Garage Structural Repairs ($1,002,947)
• Contract with Salas O’Brien for Noyes Cultural Arts Center HVAC Feasibility Study ($185,000)
• Purchase of 2022 E-Transit Cargo Van ($48,507) and Kubota Utility Vehicle ($43,791.15)
• Ordinance 22-O-22: Special Assessment No. 1527 for alley North of Grant Street and East of Hastings Avenue

911- Emergency Telephone System Board

The Evanston Emergency Telephone System Board is scheduled to approve a sole-source annual maintenance agreement for the police and fire departments' Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) software with CentralSquare Technologies. The board will also review the purchase of a Problem-Oriented Policing (POP) module, which staff states is intended to support a proposed restructuring of police beats into a four-zone system.

• Approval of CentralSquare CAD annual maintenance agreement for $86,815.55 (May 2022–April 2023)
• Purchase of Problem-Oriented Policing (POP) OneSolution CAD module for $16,673.00
• Update on Fire Department infrastructure upgrade following Motorola site walk
• Discussion of proposed police beat reconfiguration into a four-zone system

Public Safety Civil Service Commission

The Evanston Public Safety Civil Service Commission meets to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss a proposed change to qualifications for the police hiring process. The agenda also includes a closed session for fire department interviews.

• Approval of December 9, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion on proposed changes to police hiring qualifications
• Closed session for fire department candidate interviews

M/W/EBE Development Committee

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Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee is reviewing the 2021 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) to approve how the city spent federal HUD funds. The report details expenditures from the Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships, and Emergency Solutions Grant programs. Staff also provides updates on the 2022 federal budget and a landlord-tenant services survey.

• Approval of 2021 CAPER for $2,555,080 in HUD entitlement funds received
• Expenditure of $2,184,389 in federal funds and program income during 2021
• HOME funds used for the Evergreen development with 60 affordable senior units
• ESG funds included $915,000 in CARES Act grants to Connections for the Homeless
• Staff report on 2022 Federal Budget Update and Landlord-Tenant Services Survey

Preservation Commission

The Evanston Preservation Commission is reviewing applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for four properties in historic districts. The agenda includes one continued item from a previous meeting and three new proposals for additions, window replacements, and structural alterations. The commission will also discuss updates to design guidelines without taking a vote.

• 1514 Judson Avenue: Proposal to add a second-story accessory dwelling unit to a detached garage (continued from Feb 8)
• 1229 Judson Avenue: Proposal to open an enclosed front porch and remove stucco wing walls
• 1727 Hinman Avenue: Proposal for a gable dormer, new windows, skylights, and replacing a rear addition with a two-story structure
• 1624 Wesley Avenue: Proposal for a screen porch, conservatory addition, and roof replacement
• Discussion of Design Guidelines and Long-Range Work Plan updates (no vote)

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee is scheduled to introduce two ordinances: one modifying zoning rules for ground-floor office uses and medical office parking requirements, and another granting a parking variation for a property on Sherman Avenue. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the previous meeting and a public comment period.

• Ordinance 17-O-22: Text amendments to Zoning Ordinance regarding ground-floor Office uses and Medical Office parking requirements.
• Ordinance 18-O-22: Major Variation for 1706-10 Sherman Avenue to allow 18 parking stalls instead of the required 28.
• Approval of minutes from the February 28, 2022 meeting.

City Council

The Evanston City Council is scheduled to review updates to its $43 million American Rescue Plan Act recovery strategy and workforce development plans. The agenda includes consent items for approving payroll, authorizing a $913,838 sewer rehabilitation contract, and extending a $100,000 building inspection agreement. Additionally, the Council will consider zoning changes for downtown properties and authorize the sale of surplus city vehicles.

• ARPA Plan and Workforce Development Updates: Accept and Place on File ($43,173,654 total allocation)
• Contract with Insituform Technologies USA, LLC for 2022 CIPP Sewer Rehabilitation: $913,838.20
• Contract with Drexwood Partners LLC for Lobbyist Services: Not-to-exceed $70,000
• Ordinance 15-O-22: Rezone 1732-34, -40 Orrington Avenue for a ten-story mixed-use building
• Resolution 20-R-22: Authorize $250,000 for street patching under the Illinois Highway Code

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee is reviewing a consent calendar that includes approving payroll, bills, and several contracts. Key items include a $913,838 sewer rehabilitation contract, a $70,000 lobbying contract, and a $250,000 resolution for street patching. The committee will also discuss resuming water shut-offs for non-payment.

• Contract with Insituform Technologies USA, LLC for 2022 CIPP Sewer Rehabilitation – Contract A in the amount of $913,838.20
• Resolution 20-R-22 authorizing $250,000 for patching various Evanston streets under the Illinois Highway Code
• Contract with Drexwood Partners LLC for lobbyist services in a not-to-exceed amount of $70,000
• Contract extension with SAFEbuilt for supplemental inspection and plan review services in a not-to-exceed amount of $100,000
• Discussion on resuming water shut-offs for non-payment of utility bills starting in April 2022

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission meets to discuss public confidence in city water additives and ongoing franchise negotiations with ComEd. The agenda also includes a discussion on the final draft of the Evanston Municipal Operations Zero Emissions Strategy and staff reports on utility reliability and capital projects.

• Discussion on city water public confidence and additives
• ComEd Franchise Negotiations
• Final draft of Evanston Municipal Operations Zero Emissions Strategy
• Monthly utility reliability report on outages and repairs
• Water & sewer fund capital improvement project status

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee will vote on directing $174,412 in Human Services Fund money toward mental health services for residents in case management. Staff recommends declining funding applications from four agencies that do not align with this new priority. The committee will also review 2021 outcomes for existing case management programs and discuss forming a working group to draft service agreements.

• Vote to allocate $174,412 for mental health services (counseling, psychiatric, diagnostic)
• Recommendation to decline funding for Northwest CASA, Shore Community Services, Trilogy, Inc., and Youth Job Center
• Review of 2021 Case Management & Safety Net Services Report outcomes
• Discussion on forming a working group to draft a Request for Proposal or Fee-for-Service Agreements
• Review of draft 2021 CAPER (Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is reviewing several items for action, including a request to reissue letters of intent for food concessions at the Arrington Lagoon Building and a recommendation to City Council to approve up to $50,000 in Tax Increment Financing for infrastructure improvements at the Main and Custer intersection. Staff also seeks approval to issue a Request for Proposals for city-owned property at 727-29 Howard Street and to forgive deferred portions of certain Economic Development Loans. Additionally, the committee will discuss proposed amendments to the Entrepreneurship Support Grant Program guidelines, which have a $50,000 allotment for FY 2022.

• Request for Letters of Intent for elevated food program at Arrington Lagoon Building
• Recommendation to approve up to $50,000 in Tax Increment Financing for Main and Custer intersection improvements
• Request to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for city-owned property at 727-29 Howard Street
• Recommendation to forgive deferred portions of certain Economic Development Loans
• Discussion on amendments to Entrepreneurship Support Grant Program guidelines ($50,000 allotted for FY 2022)

Finance and Budget Committee

The Finance and Budget Committee is scheduled to discuss the City of Evanston's police and fire pensions. The agenda includes a presentation by an actuary on pension funding basics, amortization methods, and current actuarial valuation results for both funds. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the previous February 8 meeting.

• Discussion of Police and Fire pensions with presentation by Jason Franken from Foster & Foster
• Firefighters’ Pension Fund unfunded liability: $107,582,999 (Jan 1, 2021 valuation)
• Police Pension Fund unfunded liability: $129,440,628 (Jan 1, 2021 valuation)
• Approval of February 8, 2022 Finance & Budget Committee minutes

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council is meeting to consider adopting new draft guidelines for public art, which outline criteria for aesthetic quality and community impact. The agenda also includes discussions on updates to American Rescue Plan and Cultural Fund grants, as well as an update on the placement of the Erik Blome DuSable artwork.

• Vote on Draft Guidelines for Public Art (For Action)
• Discussion on American Rescue Plan Grant and Cultural Fund Grant updates
• Update on Erik Blome DuSable Timing and Placement
• Review of Fountain Square RFQ proposals (application closed March 8)
• Recruitment of 12-16 judges for grant applications

Human Services Committee

The Evanston Human Services Committee is scheduled to vote on a resolution to designate a block of McDaniel Avenue as 'William Bill Logan Jr. Way' and to amend city code sections regarding prohibited noises. The agenda also includes discussion items on general assistance updates and police staffing vacancies, as well as communication items reviewing police complaints reports.

• Resolution 17-R-22: Designates McDaniel Avenue between Nathaniel St. and Greenleaf St. as 'William Bill Logan Jr. Way' (approx. $200 cost for signs)
• Ordinance 19-O-22: Amends City Code 9-5-20 regarding 'Noises Prohibited' and loudspeaker permits
• Discussion: General Assistance Update report
• Communication: Review of Evanston Police Complaints and Comments Report
• Communication: Police Staffing, Vacancies, and Crimes Update

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee met to review staff updates on the orientation of the first sixteen reparations beneficiaries and discuss tax implications for the benefits. The committee also accepted a report showing $69,103 in donations to the Reparations Fund as of March 1, 2022. No new policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on procedural updates and filing reports.

• Staff update on one-on-one orientations for the first sixteen reparations beneficiaries
• Discussion of tax implications for reparations benefits, including potential cash payments
• Reparations Fund donations total $69,103 as of March 1, 2022
• Beneficiaries receive a $25,000 benefit for Home Purchase, Mortgage Assistance, or Home Improvement
• Committee accepted the March 2021 Financial Donation Report for filing

Citizen Police Review Commission

The Citizen Police Review Commission will vote on whether an internal investigation into Complaint Register #20-02 was thorough and fair. The body will also elect a new Chairperson and review the official terms of its appointed commissioners to resolve discrepancies with city ordinance.

• Review of Complaint Register #20-02 regarding allegations of disrespect and improper detention during an arrest warrant execution
• Election of a new Commission Chairperson as required by City Code Section 2-15-6
• Clarification of commissioner terms: Richman, Ross, and Marsh ending June 2022; Strickland, Whitmore, Lule, and Shambee ending June 2023
• Approval of minutes from previous meetings held in July, September, December 2021, and February 2022

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee is scheduled to introduce Ordinance 15-O-22, which would rezone 1732-34, -40 Orrington Avenue from D2 to D3 to allow a ten-story mixed-use building. The proposal requires site development allowances for height, setbacks, and parking. The committee will also discuss a proposed tree preservation ordinance for private property.

• Ordinance 15-O-22: Rezone 1732-34, -40 Orrington Avenue from D2 to D3 for a ten-story mixed-use planned development
• Site Development Allowance requested for 149.5-foot height (limit is 85 feet)
• Site Development Allowance requested for 6.4-11 foot ziggurat setback (minimum 40 feet required)
• Site Development Allowance requested for 35 on-site parking stalls (213 required)
• Discussion of proposed Tree Preservation Ordinance regulating tree removal on private property

City Council

The Evanston City Council is scheduled to approve a five-year, $2.5 million contract for police body-worn cameras and authorize the purchase of nine new vehicles for the Police and Parking departments. The agenda also includes a proposal to rezone 1732-34, -40 Orrington Avenue to allow a ten-story mixed-use building, as well as updates to the city's American Rescue Plan Act funding allocation.

• Five-year contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for police body-worn cameras totaling $2.5 million
• Purchase of eight Ford Hybrid Police Interceptors and one Ford Transit Connect Van for $326,209
• Ordinance 15-O-22 to rezone 1732-34, -40 Orrington Avenue for a ten-story mixed-use building
• Intergovernmental Agreement with RTA for $270,433.58 in bus stop accessibility grants
• Appointment of Juan Geracaris as the new 9th Ward Councilmember

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee is reviewing consent calendar items including payroll approval, police vehicle purchases, and a five-year contract for body-worn cameras. The agenda also includes resolutions for accessible bus stop funding and changes to third-party delivery fees, alongside ordinances for franchise haulers and surplus vehicle sales.

• Five-year Axon body-worn camera and CEW contract totaling $2.5 million
• Purchase of nine Ford vehicles for Police and Parking divisions for $326,209
• Resolution 16-R-22 for $270,433.58 RTA grant for accessible bus stops
• Resolution 19-R-22 to terminate limits on third-party delivery service fees
• Ordinance 14-O-22 adding Title 8, Chapter 26 'Franchise Haulers' to City Code

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is scheduled to consider forgiving deferred portions of certain Economic Development Loans and issuing a Request for Proposals for city-owned property at 727-29 Howard Street. Staff also seeks approval to reissue a request for letters of intent for a food program at the Arrington Lagoon Building. Additionally, the committee will recommend up to $50,000 in Tax Increment Financing for infrastructure improvements at the intersection of Main and Custer Avenue.

• Forgiveness of deferred portions of Economic Development Loans
• Request for Proposals (RFP) for city-owned property at 727-29 Howard Street
• Reissue of Letters of Intent for food program at Arrington Lagoon Building
• Recommendation for up to $50,000 in Tax Increment Financing for Main and Custer intersection improvements
• Discussion of amendments to Entrepreneurship Support Grant Program guidelines ($50,000 allotted)

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council is holding a special meeting to vote on Ordinance 10-O-22. This ordinance changes rules for Class S liquor licenses, which apply to veterans groups like the American Legion Post 42. The proposal limits alcohol service to members and their guests, adjusts outdoor serving hours to address noise concerns, and reduces the annual license fee.

• Ordinance 10-O-22 limits Class S liquor license sales to members and guests only
• Outdoor alcohol service hours reduced to 10 p.m. (Sun-Thu) and 11 p.m. (Fri-Sat)
• Annual Class S liquor license fee reduced from $2,800 to $500
• Changes apply to American Legion Post 42, the only Class S license holder in the city

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee is reviewing recommendations for how to allocate $201,412 in Support Service funds, which the Committee previously decided to focus on mental health. Staff recommends declining funding for three agencies (Northwest CASA, Shore Community Services, and Youth Job Center) because their services do not align with the mental health priority or do not increase capacity for Evanston residents. The Committee is also discussing a potential fee-for-service model to expand access to counseling and psychiatric services for residents in case management.

• Review of $201,412 in Support Service funds designated for mental health
• Staff recommendation to decline funding for Northwest CASA, Shore Community Services, and Youth Job Center
• Discussion of fee-for-service agreements to expand access to counseling and psychiatric services
• Review of applications from Impact Behavioral Health Partners and Trilogy, Inc.

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Equity and Empowerment Commission is reviewing the Evanston Equity Scorecard, a framework for assessing city policies and projects. The document outlines a ten-point evaluation process covering stakeholder engagement, equity impacts, and accountability. It defines how Commission members will review proposals and submit recommendations to City Council and other leadership.

• Ten-point equity assessment criteria including stakeholder engagement and root causes
• Review process assigns three Commission members to evaluate each proposal
• Final recommendations categorized as Strongly Support, Support with Modifications, Neutral, or Do Not Support
• Scorecard applies to zoning, housing, budget allocations, and tax abatements

Referrals Committee

The Evanston Referrals Committee met to approve previous minutes and review a list of referrals. The committee's main task was to select which referrals would be prioritized for scheduling. The agenda was procedural, focusing on administrative review rather than new policy decisions.

• Approval of minutes from the February 3, 2022 meeting
• Review and scheduling of referrals made to date

M/W/EBE Development Committee

The Evanston M/W/EBE Development Committee will review the final 2021 tracking report showing $5.67 million in subcontracting to minority, women, Evanston, and disability-owned businesses. Staff will present the 2022 capital planning projects, identifying which contracts are eligible for Local Economic Participation (LEP) goals. The committee will also discuss the LEP Program Overview and an update on the LEP Penalty Fund balance.

• Review of 2021 M/W/EBE Goal Compliance Report showing $5,669,764.16 in subcontracting across various projects.
• Presentation of 2022 Capital Planning Projects, including $13.2 million in LEP-eligible contracts such as the Skate Park ($1.36 million) and Public Works Storage Building ($1 million).
• Update on the LEP Penalty Fund, with a previous balance of $73,352.00 and a current balance of $57,722.59 reported in prior minutes.
• Discussion of the Northwestern Business Incubator and potential site visits to Rebuilding Warehouse and the incubator.
• Review of 2022 M/W/EBE Goal Compliance, including a Janitorial Services contract for $248,614.37 with $46,299.00 subcontracted to A & G Cleaning Services.

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee will discuss how to survey landlords and tenants who use city mediation services. Staff presented a memo outlining challenges in tracking service requests through 311 and Metropolitan Tenants Organization. The committee will also discuss the implementation of a Small Landlord Task Force and review a report on an affordable housing retrofit program.

• Discussion on conducting an annual survey of landlords and tenants referred to landlord-tenant services
• Discussion on Small Landlord Task Force implementation
• Review of Center for Neighborhood Technology report on Affordable, Resilient Housing Retrofit Program
• Approval of January 18, 2022 meeting minutes

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee reviewed a recommendation to grant a Special Use Permit for a convenience store at 518 Davis Street. The committee also scheduled a discussion on property standards procedures and approved the minutes from the previous meeting.

• Ordinance 11-O-22: Special Use Permit for a convenience store at 518 Davis Street in the D4 Downtown Transition District
• Discussion of Property Standards Procedures
• Approval of minutes from the January 24, 2022 meeting

City Council

The Evanston City Council will vote on hiring Stanton Chase to conduct the search for a new City Manager. The agenda also includes resolutions to authorize street improvements funded by the Rebuild Illinois program and change orders for existing construction contracts. Additionally, the Council will consider ordinances regarding liquor licenses and a special use permit for a convenience store.

• Resolution 15-R-22: Authorize engagement letter with Stanton Chase for City Manager search
• Resolutions 10-R-22 and 11-R-22: Authorize IDOT street improvements using Rebuild Illinois funds ($1,364,000 and $1,097,000)
• Change Order No. 1: Increase Howard Street Corridor engineering contract to $1,130,022.89
• Ordinance 12-O-22: Increase Class I liquor licenses for Dollop General Store and Cafe at 1508 Sherman Avenue
• Ordinance 11-O-22: Grant Special Use Permit for convenience store at 518 Davis Street

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Evanston Administration & Public Works Committee is reviewing a consent calendar of financial approvals and contracts, including payroll and various public works projects. Key items for consideration include resolutions for street improvements funded by Rebuild Illinois, changes to liquor license regulations, and a lease renewal at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center. The committee will also discuss commercial vehicle parking regulations and sewer repair costs.

• Resolutions 10-R-22 and 11-R-22 authorize street improvements funded by Rebuild Illinois ($1,364,000 and $1,097,000 respectively)
• Ordinance 12-O-22 proposes increasing Class I liquor licenses for Dollop General Store and Cafe at 1508 Sherman Avenue
• Change Order No. 1 for Howard Street Corridor Engineering increases contract to $1,130,022.89
• Purchase of 20 Tallmadge street light poles and LED fixtures for $93,480
• Discussion on allowing commercial vehicles with markings to park on residential streets

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee is meeting to decide how to allocate $201,412 reserved for Support Services, with a focus on mental health needs. Staff recommends forming a working group to explore fee-for-service agreements for counseling and diagnostic services. The agenda also includes approving previous meeting minutes and reviewing applicant classifications for funding eligibility.

• Allocation of $201,412 for Support Services
• Proposal to form a working group for mental health service capacity
• Review of funding applications from Impact Behavioral Health Partners, Trilogy, Inc., Northwest CASA, Shore Community Services, and Youth Job Center
• Approval of December 9, 2021 meeting minutes
• Update on Zoom Grants Reporting Working Group

Finance and Budget Committee

The Finance and Budget Committee is meeting to discuss the funding sources for the City of Evanston's 2022 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Staff will present a memo detailing how approximately 129 projects, totaling $64,035,625, are financed through various sources including bonds, grants, and dedicated funds. The discussion focuses on the allocation of these funds across streets, water, parks, and facilities.

• 2022 CIP total budget: $64,035,625 for ~129 projects
• Street Resurfacing, Water Main, and Sewer category: $32,468,000
• Water Treatment Storage category: $13,130,000
• General Obligation Bonds provide $12.9M in flexible funding
• Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Loan provides $25.2M for specific water/sewer projects

Preservation Commission

The Evanston Preservation Commission meets virtually to review Certificate of Appropriateness applications for three properties in historic districts. The agenda also includes updates on draft design guidelines and the commission's long-range work plan.

• 2118 Orrington Avenue: Proposal to demolish two garages and a rear addition, then construct a new two-story garage and single-story addition.
• 736 Forest Avenue: Proposal to construct an addition to and alter the fenestration, height, and roof form of an existing detached three-car garage.
• 1514 Judson Avenue: Proposal to construct a second-story accessory dwelling addition to an existing single-story four-car detached garage.
• Staff update on Draft #3 of the Design Guidelines.
• Discussion of draft vision and value statements for the Commission's long-range work plan.

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council will vote on Neighborhood Grants for The Waa-Mu Show ($1,000) and Impact Behavioral Health Partners ($1,900). The council will also consider proposed changes to Neighborhood Grants guidelines and approve five artist-social service provider matches for the Community Resiliency Through the Arts Fund.

• The Waa-Mu Show requesting $1,000 for its 91st original musical
• Impact Behavioral Health Partners requesting $1,900 for inclusive art projects
• Proposed revisions to Neighborhood Grants Guidelines
• Five matches approved for Community Resiliency Through the Arts Fund
• Discussion on reviving special events

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council held a virtual special meeting on February 7, 2022. The agenda consisted primarily of procedural steps, including a roll call, a closed executive session, and a public comment period. No specific legislation, budget items, or project approvals were listed on the agenda.

• Executive session conducted pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1)
• Public comment period with time limits based on speaker count
• Virtual meeting format via Channel 16 or online

Human Services Committee

The Evanston Human Services Committee will review the Evanston Police Complaints and Comments Report, which includes one sustained complaint against an officer for off-duty contact with a complainant. The committee will also discuss police department morale and needs, approve 2022 meeting dates, and receive updates on the Public Works Agency Apprentice Program and General Assistance services.

• Review of Evanston Police Complaints and Comments Report (1 complaint, 11 compliments)
• Discussion of Evanston Police Department Morale and Needs
• Approval of 2022 Human Services Committee meeting dates
• Update on Public Works Agency Apprentice Program
• Presentation on Victim's Services and General Assistance Update

Liquor Control Review Board

The Evanston Liquor Control Review Board is meeting to approve a Class I liquor license application for Dollop General Store and Cafe at 1508 Sherman Avenue. The board will also vote on Ordinance 10-O-22, which proposes amendments to the Class S liquor license ordinance for veterans groups, specifically regarding allowed service hours, customer restrictions, and license fees.

• Application for Class I (Restaurant/Package Store) Liquor License for Dollop HP, LLC at 1508 Sherman Avenue
• Ordinance 10-O-22: Proposed amendment to City Code Section 3-4-6(S) for Class S liquor licenses (veterans groups)
• Review of proposed changes to alcohol service hours and customer eligibility for veterans groups
• Approval of minutes from the January 24, 2022 Liquor Control Review Board meeting

Citizen Police Review Commission

The Citizen Police Review Commission is reviewing Department Inquiry #21-01, which alleges an officer made distasteful comments to a mental health staff member during an involuntary committal attempt. The review follows conflicting recommendations from police supervisors, with some finding no violation and others recommending counseling. The Commission will also hold an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

• Review of Department Inquiry #21-01 regarding officer conduct on July 21, 2021
• Allegations of violations of Rules 1, 2, 18, and 20 concerning respectful behavior and service
• Patrol Sergeant recommended exoneration; Patrol Commander and Deputy Chief recommended shift-level counseling
• Executive session scheduled to discuss personnel items under 5 ILCS 120/2a

911- Emergency Telephone System Board

The Evanston Emergency Telephone System Board will meet to approve the 2021 Annual Financial Report and review ongoing infrastructure projects. The agenda includes updates on Fire Department radio upgrades, NG9-1-1 progress, and workstation replacements. The board will also formally approve minutes from a previous meeting and acknowledge a staff promotion.

• Approval of 2021 Annual Financial Report
• Update on Fire Department infrastructure upgrade
• Update on NG9-1-1 progress
• Update on Communications and Service Desk workstation replacement
• Promotion of Armond Harold to Assistant Communications Coordinator

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is reviewing several requests for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, including $1 million for The Aux facility and $2 million for Northlight Theater. Staff also seeks approval for a $479 grant for Fatzee's and a $1.69 million Tax Increment Finance investment for Whole & Free Foods.

• $479 grant for Fatzee's from Entrepreneurship Support Program
• $200,000 ARPA recommendation for ASPIRE healthcare workforce program
• $1 million ARPA recommendation for The Aux at 2223 Washington Street
• $2 million ARPA consideration for Northlight Theater
• $1,693,750 TIF request for Whole & Free Foods at 910-938 Custer Avenue

City Council

The Evanston City Council will vote on a resolution requiring members to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or provide a negative test result before attending meetings. The agenda also includes approval of various contracts for water utility improvements, parking system management, and affordable housing services. Additionally, the Council will discuss a proposal for hazard pay for grocery store workers.

• Resolution 8-R-22: Requires Councilmembers to be vaccinated or test negative for COVID-19
• Change Order No. 1 for HVAC improvements at Evanston Water Utility Administrative Offices ($50,353.00)
• Contract with SKIDATA for parking garage management system ($75,840.00)
• Renewal contract for landlord-tenant services with Metropolitan Tenants Organization ($61,800.00)
• Discussion of hazard pay for grocery store workers

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee reviewed a consent calendar approving payroll, bills, and various service contracts. Key items included a change order for HVAC improvements at the Water Utility offices, a contract extension for cross-connection control services, and a new agreement for parking garage management software. The committee also considered a resolution to forgive remaining balances on lead service line loans for 36 residents.

• Approval of payroll ($2,942,974.10) and bills lists totaling over $2.3 million
• Change Order No. 1 for Thermosystems, Inc. HVAC improvements at Water Utility offices ($50,353.00)
• One-year extension for Backflow Solutions Incorporated cross-connection control services ($47,700.00)
• Single-source contract with Ozinga Ready Mix for concrete purchase ($50,000.00)
• Resolution 9-R-22 authorizing a $75,840 contract with SKIDATA for parking garage management

Planning & Development Committee

The Planning & Development Committee will vote on a contract with attorney Daniel Lauber to provide consulting services on housing issues, including the definition of 'family' and rental licensing. The committee will also discuss next steps for a proposed ordinance amendment regarding dwelling occupancy and family definitions. Funding for the contract is not in the current budget and would require an amendment.

• Resolution 6-R-22: Contract with Daniel Lauber for consulting services
• Contract costs: $6,000 for report, $6,600 for zoning amendments, $300/hour rate
• Discussion of Ordinance 83-O-21: Text amendment on dwelling occupancy and 'family' definition
• Potential implementation of rental licensing program and increased fines for property maintenance violations

Liquor Control Review Board

The Liquor Control Review Board is meeting to approve previous minutes and introduce new business items. The primary new item is a Class C (Restaurant) liquor license application for Dollop General Store and Cafe at 1508 Sherman Avenue. The board will also introduce a proposed ordinance amendment regarding alcohol service hours and fees for Class S (Veterans Groups) licenses.

• New Class C (Restaurant) License application for Dollop General Store and Cafe at 1508 Sherman Avenue
• Proposed Ordinance 10-O-22 amending Class S (Veterans Groups) rules on alcohol hours, customers, and fees
• Approval of December 17, 2021 meeting minutes
• Meeting held remotely via Zoom due to Governor Pritzker's executive order

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee is reviewing how to allocate $201,412 reserved for Support Services, following a prior decision to focus these funds on mental health. Staff recommends forming a working group to address unmet mental health needs identified by case management agencies. Additionally, staff recommends declining funding applications from four agencies whose services do not align with the mental health priority or do not increase capacity for Evanston residents referred by case management partners.

• Review of $201,412 Support Services budget allocation
• Proposal to form a working group to address mental health capacity gaps
• Recommendation to decline funding for Northwest CASA, Shore Community Services, and Youth Job Center
• Discussion of fee-for-service agreements with mental health providers like Trilogy, Inc. and Impact Behavioral Health Partners
• Identification of unmet needs including psychiatric services for children and diagnostic services

Equity and Empowerment Commission

The Equity and Empowerment Commission is discussing the Evanston Equity Scorecard, a framework for assessing city projects and policies through an equity lens. The document outlines a process where three commission members independently review proposals against ten criteria, such as stakeholder engagement and identification of inequities. The commission then votes on a final recommendation to support, modify, or oppose the proposal before submitting it to city leadership.

• Introduction of the Evanston Equity Scorecard for evaluating projects, policies, and practices
• Process requires three EEC members to independently review proposals
• Scorecard covers housing, zoning, budget allocations, tax abatements, and public subsidies
• Final recommendations include options: Strongly Support, Support with Modifications, Neutral, or Do Not Support

Rules Committee

The Evanston Rules Committee is scheduled to vote on an ordinance allowing Reparations Committee members to receive benefits from the city's reparations fund without violating ethics codes. The committee will also consider a resolution requiring the Mayor to announce vetoes at the next council meeting. Additional discussion items include proposed changes to elected official compensation, updates on public records disputes, and procedures for filling a vacant council seat.

• Ordinance 9-O-22: Amends City Code to allow Reparations Committee members to receive fund benefits
• Resolution 7-R-22: Amends Rule 14.3 to require Mayor to announce vetoes at next council meeting
• Discussion on elected official compensation, including a proposed $7,200 stipend for home office costs
• Update on open Public Access Counselor (PAC) matters regarding FOIA requests
• Discussion on filling the City Council vacancy left by Councilmember Fleming's resignation

Housing & Community Development Committee

The Housing & Community Development Committee is scheduled to vote on two new business items: a renewal contract for landlord-tenant services and funding to administer the Inclusionary Housing Waitlist. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the previous meeting and a public comment period. The meeting is held virtually via Zoom.

• Approval of a not-to-exceed $61,800 renewal contract with Metropolitan Tenants Organization and Lawyers' Committee for Better Housing for landlord-tenant services (Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2022)
• Approval of renewal funding to administer the Inclusionary Housing Waitlist
• Approval of draft minutes from the December 14, 2021 meeting

Special City Council Meeting

The Evanston City Council agenda for this special meeting lists only roll call, executive session, public comment, and adjournment. No specific policy decisions, ordinances, or budget items are listed on the agenda.

• Executive session scheduled
• Public comment period scheduled
• No substantive agenda items listed

Utilities Commission

The Evanston Utilities Commission meets to discuss new business regarding municipal gas bans and unfinished business on ComEd franchise negotiations. The agenda also includes a discussion on the final draft of the Evanston Municipal Operations Zero Emissions Strategy and staff reports on utility reliability and capital projects.

• New business: Municipal Gas Bans
• Unfinished business: ComEd Franchise Negotiations
• Discussion: Final draft of Evanston Municipal Operations Zero Emissions Strategy
• Staff report: Monthly utility reliability report (outages, water main breaks)
• Staff report: Water & sewer fund capital improvement project status

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee meets virtually to approve the recipient list for the Restorative Housing 'Ancestor' category. Staff recommends approval of this list for action. The agenda also includes standard procedural items like public comment and adjournment.

• Approval of Restorative Housing 'Ancestor' category recipient list

Animal Welfare Board

The Evanston Animal Welfare Board will review minutes from its October 2021 meeting and discuss potential limits on the number of cats residents can own. The agenda also includes updates on the vacant Animal Warden position and progress on the new animal shelter building project.

• Discussion on limiting the number of cats owned in Evanston
• Update on the Animal Warden position moved to Evanston Police Department
• Update on the Animal Shelter Building project (approx. 8,500 sq ft)
• Follow-up on rescue of 42 cats from a house fire on Dewey
• Approval of October 12, 2021 meeting minutes

Evanston Arts Council

The Evanston Arts Council is meeting to approve Neighborhood Grants for two local arts projects, each requesting $1,000. The council will also vote on proposed guidelines for a $150,000 American Rescue Plan Act subgrant and changes to the Cultural Fund Grant budget, which has increased to $60,000. Additionally, the Public Art Working Group will review two signage elements from a Rotary International proposal referred by the city's design committee.

• Neighborhood Grant request: $1,000 for 'The Child in You' literary carnival by Young Black & Lit.
• Neighborhood Grant request: $1,000 for 'Kitchen Table Stories Project' web platform for ASAPIA community.
• Proposed guidelines for $150,000 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) subgrant ($135,000 available for arts orgs).
• Cultural Fund Grant budget increase from $30,000 to $60,000 via NEA grant; guidelines under review.
• Review of two signage elements for Rotary International's 'One Rotary Center' exhibit.

Finance and Budget Committee

The Finance and Budget Committee met to discuss the city's bond issuance procedures with financial advisor Speer Financial. The presentation covered the mechanics of bond sales and reviewed details of the Series 2020 and 2021 bonds, including their purposes and interest costs. The agenda also included routine items like approving previous minutes and authorizing virtual participation.

• Discussion of Series 2020 Bonds: $27,960,000 par value, $16,488,277 new money for capital improvements, 1.537% true interest cost
• Discussion of Series 2021 Bonds: $14,420,000 par value, $8,804,000 new money for capital improvements, 1.611% true interest cost
• Presentation by Speer Financial on bond issuance steps, including rating reviews and competitive sales
• Approval of December 14, 2021 committee meeting minutes
• Authorization for virtual meeting participation due to COVID-19

City Council

The Evanston City Council will discuss establishing a 'Living Room' for immediate mental health crisis care and approve $552,500 in ARPA funding for a youth violence prevention initiative. The agenda also includes votes on various city contracts, including janitorial services, parking software, and debris hauling, as well as several liquor license amendments.

• Discussion of a 'Living Room' for immediate mental health crisis care
• Approval of $552,500 ARPA funding for the 'My City, Your City, Our City' youth violence program
• Approval of a 3-year janitorial services contract with Eco Clean Maintenance, Inc. for up to $185,196/year
• Approval of a parking software agreement with Passport Labs, Inc. for up to $450,000
• Amendments to increase liquor licenses for Estacion, Village Farmstand, and Few Spirits

Administration & Public Works Committee

The Administration & Public Works Committee approved resolutions to forgive remaining balances on lead service line loans for 36 residents and to participate in a Cook County program to acquire tax-delinquent properties for redevelopment. The committee also passed several ordinances adjusting liquor license counts for specific businesses and amended city code regarding water service pipe maintenance. A discussion on high private sewer repair costs was held, with a plan expected at the next meeting.

• Resolution 2-R-22: Forgives remaining balances of lead service line loans for 36 residents
• Resolution 3-R-22: Authorizes participation in Cook County No Cash Bid Program for property acquisition
• Ordinance 1-O-22: Amends city code regarding water service pipe installation and replacement
• Ordinances 2-O-22 through 7-O-22: Adjust liquor license counts for Estacion, Village Farmstand, Few Spirits, and In Grape Company
• Discussion on sewer service repair costs, including a resident's $45,000 repair bill

Reparations Committee

The Evanston Reparations Committee is scheduled to approve the procedures for its Restorative Housing Program, which includes partnering with Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH) to distribute funds. Staff also seeks direction on how to select the final 'Ancestor' beneficiaries from the applicant pool. The agenda includes a review of draft guidelines for home purchase, mortgage assistance, and home improvement benefits.

• Approval of Reparations Restorative Housing Procedures and Implementation
• Direction on selection process for 'Ancestor' beneficiaries
• Partnership with Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH) for fund distribution
• Draft procedures for Home Purchase, Mortgage Assistance, and Home Improvement benefits
• Home improvement benefit budget noted as $25,000 in draft guidelines