Northfield public meetings in 2021

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board will vote on the 2021 tax levy and abatements, two special use permits for a medical office and a fitness studio, and an updated cable franchise agreement with Comcast. The board will also consider a highway authority agreement for 1756 Willow Road, a lease amendment for a cell tower, and a $31,416 equipment purchase. Consent items include approving $2.1 million in bills and disbursements.

• 2021 tax levy of $4,699,290 (1.4% increase over 2020) with abatements for 2015 and 2009 bond issues
• Special use for Kenilworth Medical Associates medical office at 1622 Willow Road
• Special use for Glenview415, LLC fitness studio (The Bar Method) at 301 Happ Road
• Updated Cable Television Franchise Agreement with Comcast of Illinois VI, LLC
• Purchase of seven Panasonic Toughbooks from CDS Office Technologies for $31,416

The Northfield Village Board approved the 2021 tax levy of $4,699,290, a 1.4% increase, and abated property taxes for the 2015 and 2009 bond issues. It also approved special uses for a medical office at 1622 Willow Road and a fitness studio at 301 Happ Road, an updated Comcast franchise agreement, a lease amendment for the cell tower at 1800 Winnetka Road, and the purchase of seven Panasonic Toughbooks for $31,416. All votes were unanimous with only Trustee Fowler present and voting, as other trustees were absent.

• Approved 2021 tax levy of $4,699,290 (1.4% increase) (5-0)
• Approved special use for Kenilworth Medical Associates at 1622 Willow Road (5-0)
• Approved special use for The Bar Method fitness studio at 301 Happ Road (5-0)
• Approved updated Comcast franchise agreement (5-0)
• Approved abatement of 2021 property taxes for 2015 bonds ($230,624) (5-0)
• Approved abatement of 2021 property taxes for 2009 bonds ($135,130) (5-0)
• Approved lease amendment with STC Two, LLC for cell tower at 1800 Winnetka Road (5-0)
• Approved purchase of seven Panasonic Toughbooks for $31,416 (5-0)

Village Board

The Village Board will review and discuss two items: an updated Tree Preservation Ordinance and an updated Village Policy Handbook. The tree ordinance changes include new heritage tree protections, expanded regulations for single-family lots, and revised fees. The policy handbook update will be presented by staff for discussion before potential adoption.

• Tree Preservation Ordinance: new 'heritage trees' category (16" caliper or greater) with higher removal fees ($400/inch with permit, $800/inch without)
• Tree Preservation Ordinance: regulations now apply to all required yards on single-family lots, and only trees 8" caliper or greater are regulated
• Tree Preservation Ordinance: fee for regular tree removal without permit is $350 per caliper inch, with permit is $175 per caliper inch
• Village Policy Handbook: staff will present suggested changes via PowerPoint for Board discussion
• Water meter replacement project: contract with Core & Main expected to be presented at this meeting (from prior discussion)

The Village Board discussed proposed updates to the Tree Preservation Ordinance, including a new heritage tree category and fee changes, but took no formal action. The board agreed to exclude rear yard setbacks from regulation and to add incentives for planting heritage trees. The board also reviewed proposed updates to the Village Policy Handbook, recommending further review of sections on fund balance and purchasing, with final adoption scheduled for January.

• Approved October 19, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed Tree Preservation Ordinance updates; no vote taken
• Agreed to exclude rear yard setbacks from tree regulations
• Agreed to add heritage tree designation in currently regulated areas only
• Agreed to add incentives for planting heritage trees
• Agreed to regulate only trees 8 inches caliper or greater
• Reviewed Policy Handbook updates; recommended further review of sections 2.4 and 2.7
• Scheduled Policy Handbook adoption for January Village Board meeting

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a request for a Special Use permit allowing a fitness class studio, The Bar Method, to operate at 301 Happ Road. The petitioner is Glenview415 LLC, DBA The Bar Method. The commission will discuss and consider the request during the meeting.

• Special Use request for fitness class studio The Bar Method at 301 Happ Road
• Petitioner: Glenview415 LLC, DBA The Bar Method
• Property Index Number: 05-19-308-023
• Project Number: 2021-0478

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will consider and discuss a request for a Special Use permit to allow The Bar Method, a fitness class studio, to operate at 301 Happ Road. The petitioner is Glenview415 LLC, DBA The Bar Method. The commission will also approve the summary notes from its November 1, 2021 meeting.

• Special Use request for fitness class studio The Bar Method at 301 Happ Road
• Petitioner: Glenview415 LLC, DBA The Bar Method
• Property Index Number: 05-19-308-023
• Project Number: 2021-0478
• Approval of summary notes from November 1, 2021 meeting

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will hold a public hearing on a request for a permanent ground sign at 191 Waukegan Road. The petitioner seeks a variation to allow a sign face of 99.3 square feet, exceeding the 24-square-foot maximum in the Sign Ordinance.

• Request for permanent ground sign with 99.3 sq ft sign face at 191 Waukegan Road
• Variation to Section 12-4.6 of the Sign Ordinance (max 24 sq ft)
• Petitioner: J2M-191, LLC (Matthew Bawmann)
• PIN: 04-23-401-104, Project #2021-0394

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will consider a continuation request for a permanent ground sign at 191 Waukegan Road. The petitioner, J2M-191, LLC, seeks approval for a 99.3 square foot sign face, which requires a variation from the 24 square foot maximum in the Sign Ordinance. The commission will also approve summary notes from the October 11, 2021 meeting.

• Continuation of ground sign request for 191 Waukegan Road
• Requested sign face: 99.3 square feet
• Variation sought to Section 12-4.6 of Sign Ordinance (24 sq ft max)
• Petitioner: J2M-191, LLC – Matthew Bawmann
• Approval of October 11, 2021 summary notes

The Architectural Commission denied a request for a permanent monument sign with 99.3 square feet of sign face at 191 Waukegan Road, along with a variation to the 24-square-foot sign ordinance limit. The petitioner had resubmitted the same sign with only a reveal added, which the commission did not consider a 20% reduction as previously directed. The motion to deny passed unanimously by roll call vote.

• Denied monument sign variance for 191 Waukegan Road (5-0)
• Approved minutes from October 11, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will review two continued requests for time extensions to complete construction, both involving minor setback encroachments. The board will also approve the summary notes from its October 6, 2021 meeting.

• 192 Lagoon Drive: extension of time and variance for 0.10 ft north side yard and 0.01 ft east front yard encroachments
• 24 Meadowview Drive: extension of time for three-car garage and second floor addition
• Approval of October 6, 2021 meeting summary notes

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two minimal relief variations for a residence at 192 Lagoon Drive, allowing encroachments into the north side and east front yard setbacks. The board also approved a motion to waive any forfeiture from the completion bond for the project at 24 Meadowview Drive, as work is nearly complete. Both matters were turned over to the Building Department for compliance.

• Approved .10 foot encroachment into north side yard setback at 192 Lagoon Drive (5-0)
• Approved .01 foot encroachment into east front yard setback at 192 Lagoon Drive (5-0)
• Approved no money forfeited from completion bond for 24 Meadowview Drive (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on two requests for extensions of time to complete construction, and one request for minor setback variations. The first involves a home at 192 Lagoon Drive, and the second involves a garage and second-floor addition at 24 Meadowview Drive.

• 192 Lagoon Drive: request for time extension and variations for 0.10 ft north side yard and 0.01 ft east front yard setback encroachments
• 24 Meadowview Drive: request for time extension to complete three-car garage and second-floor addition
• Both requests are continuations of prior applications

Special Meetings

The Preliminary Plan Review Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss a preliminary development concept for a senior residential care facility at 778 and 790 Frontage Road. The proposal includes a four-story building with 152 units offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. This is a preliminary discussion only; no action will be taken, and formal application would require additional public notice.

• Preliminary concept for senior care facility at 778-790 Frontage Road
• Four-story building with 152 units
• Includes independent living, assisted living, and memory care
• Located in O/R – Office Research Zoning District

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a request for a Special Use permit. The proposal would allow Kenilworth Medical Associates, an allergy diagnosis and treatment clinic, to operate at 1622 Willow Road.

• Special Use request for Kenilworth Medical Associates at 1622 Willow Road

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will consider and discuss a request for a Special Use permit to allow Kenilworth Medical Associates, an allergy diagnosis and treatment practice, to operate at 1622 Willow Road. The petitioner is MJR/Northfield Real Estate Holding Co. LLC. The commission will also approve the summary notes from the October 4, 2021 meeting.

• Special Use request for Kenilworth Medical Associates at 1622 Willow Road
• Petitioner: MJR/Northfield Real Estate Holding Co. LLC
• Property Index Number: 05-19-304-028
• Project Number: 2021-0439
• Approval of summary notes from October 4, 2021 meeting

The Plan and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a special use permit for an allergy/immunology medical office at 1622 Willow Road, operated by Kenilworth Medical Associates. The recommendation includes conditions on hours, parking, and ownership. The final decision will be made by the Village Board on December 7, 2021.

• Approved recommendation for special use permit for medical office at 1622 Willow Road (unanimous)
• Set hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to noon Saturday
• Required property owner to maintain parking leases for IDOT and Forest Preserve spaces or find alternatives
• Special use is personal to Kenilworth Medical Associates and lapses on ownership change
• Landscaping must be restored per approved plan
• Village officials granted access for inspections
• Violations may result in fines up to $750 per violation
• Changes to the project require approval per specified procedures

Police Pension Board

The Northfield Police Pension Fund Board approved the actuarial valuation and requested a $1,450,628 tax levy from the village, a 4.33% increase over last year. The board also accepted the quarterly investment report from Great Lakes Advisors, approved the treasurer's report and $47,337.43 in bills, and approved the Illinois Department of Insurance annual statement and village audit, both pending final review. All votes were unanimous with Trustee Whiteman absent.

• Approved actuarial valuation and requested $1,450,628 tax levy (4-0)
• Accepted Great Lakes Advisors quarterly investment report (4-0)
• Approved treasurer's report and payment of $47,337.43 in bills (4-0)
• Approved Illinois Department of Insurance annual statement, pending final review (4-0)
• Accepted village audit, pending final review (4-0)
• Approved January 20, 2022 meeting date; other 2022 dates set later (4-0)
• Authorized renewal of fiduciary liability insurance, not to exceed $6,000 (4-0)

Village Board

The Village Board will discuss an expedited water meter replacement program that would replace 1,315 older meters and install a base station over the next year, funded partly with American Rescue Plan funds. The project aims to reduce staff time, improve customer service, and cut water loss. The board will also consider approving the September 21, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Water meter replacement project estimated at $1,045,500, with $732,195.52 from ARP funds and $313,304.48 from Water and Sewer fund
• Core & Main contract quote of $865,489.75 for turnkey meter installation and base station
• Temporary staffing: full-time water billing clerk and two part-time meter readers
• Approval of September 21, 2021 Committee of the Whole minutes

The Village Board unanimously supported an expedited water meter replacement project to replace 1,315 older meters and install a base station over 9-12 months, instead of the planned 8-year rollout. The project, estimated at $1,045,500, would be funded with $732,195.52 in American Rescue Plan funds and $313,304.48 from the Water and Sewer fund. A final contract with Core & Main and a budget amendment are expected at the December 7, 2021 Board meeting.

• Approved September 21, 2021 Report of Proceedings (unanimous)
• Unanimously supported expedited water meter replacement project
• Discussed funding project with $732,195.52 in ARP funds and $313,304.48 from Water and Sewer fund
• Anticipated finalized Core & Main contract and budget amendment at December 7, 2021 meeting

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board will consider several action items, including an ordinance to allow ownership changes for the self-storage facility at 275 Northfield Road, a resolution for the Happ Road Phase II study with Cook County, and an amendment to the Foreign Fire Insurance Board membership size. The board will also consider the Truth in Taxation Resolution for the 2021 tax levy. Consent agenda includes approval of bills totaling $679,886.54 and re-adoption of the Village Code.

• Special use amendment for self-storage at 275 Northfield Road
• Resolution authorizing IGA with Cook County for Happ Road Phase II study
• Amendment to allow Foreign Fire Insurance Board membership of 3-7 members
• Truth in Taxation Resolution for 2021 tax levy
• Approval of bills and disbursements totaling $679,886.54

The Village Board approved an ordinance amending Special Use Ordinance #14-1600 to allow the Board to approve changes of ownership of the self-storage facility at 275 Northfield Road, with conditions. The Board also authorized an Intergovernmental Agreement with Cook County for the Happ Road Phase II study and approved proceeding with the engineering work under the IDOT Section 1440 process. Additionally, the Board approved a Truth in Taxation Resolution for the 2021 tax levy and amended the Foreign Fire Insurance Board membership to between three and seven members.

• Approved consent agenda including September minutes, $679,886.54 in bills, and Village Code re-adoption (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance amending Special Use #14-1600 for self-storage ownership changes at 275 Northfield Road (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing IGA with Cook County for Happ Road Phase II study (unanimous)
• Approved authorization to proceed with Happ Road Phase II engineering under IDOT Section 1440 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Chapter 4 allowing Foreign Fire Insurance Board membership of 3-7 members (unanimous)
• Approved Truth in Taxation Resolution for 2021 tax levy of $4,699,290 (unanimous)

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will hold a public hearing to consider two property requests. The items include an amendment to a landscape plan at 1725 Winnetka Road and a request for a large ground sign at 191 Waukegan Road.

• Landscape plan amendment for Northfield Mews rental townhomes at 1725 Winnetka Road to replace a fountain with a shade tree
• Request for a 99.3 square foot permanent ground sign at 191 Waukegan Road
• Requested variation to Section 12-4.6 of the Sign Ordinance regarding maximum sign face area

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will consider two property requests regarding landscaping and signage. The meeting also includes the approval of summary notes from the June 14, 2021, meeting.

• Landscape plan amendment for 1725 Winnetka Road to replace a courtyard fountain with a large shade tree
• Request for a 99.3 square foot permanent ground sign at 191 Waukegan Road
• Requested variation to Section 12-4.6 of the Sign Ordinance for 191 Waukegan Road

The Architectural Commission approved a landscape plan amendment for the Northfield Mews townhomes at 1725 Winnetka Road, allowing replacement of a courtyard fountain with a large shade tree and other planting changes. The commission continued the request for a 99.3-square-foot ground sign at 191 Waukegan Road, asking for a 20% size reduction and a mockup of tenant placards.

• Approved landscape plan amendment to replace fountain with shade tree at Northfield Mews (unanimous)
• Continued 191 Waukegan Road sign request to November 8 meeting with 20% size reduction and placard mockup

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on two continuation requests. Both involve extensions of time to complete construction, and one also seeks minor zoning variations for setback encroachments. The board will consider these requests and may vote or make recommendations.

• 192 Lagoon Drive: extension of time to complete construction and variation for 0.10 ft north side yard setback encroachment (6.90 ft vs required 7.00 ft)
• 192 Lagoon Drive: variation for 0.01 ft east front yard setback encroachment (29.99 ft vs required 30.00 ft)
• 192 Lagoon Drive: two-story single family residence on existing foundation; petitioners Hyungsig and Michelle Sonn
• 24 Meadowview Drive: extension of time to complete construction of three-car attached garage and second floor addition
• 24 Meadowview Drive: petitioners Todd Luetkemeyer and Courtney Wells

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will review two requests for extensions of time to complete construction, both continued from previous meetings. One request also seeks minor variances for side and front yard setbacks at 192 Lagoon Drive. The other is for a garage and second floor addition at 24 Meadowview Drive.

• 192 Lagoon Drive: extension of time and variances for 0.10 ft north side and 0.01 ft east front yard setbacks
• 24 Meadowview Drive: extension of time for three-car garage and second floor addition
• Approval of summary notes from August 4, 2021 meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted conditional extensions for building permits at 192 Lagoon Drive and 24 Meadowview Drive, both until November 3, 2021, to complete construction and receive a Certificate of Occupancy. The extension for 24 Meadowview Drive includes a $100 per day penalty from a $10,000 completion bond if work is not finished. Both motions passed 6-0 with one member absent.

• Approved conditional building permit extension for 192 Lagoon Drive until Nov 3, 2021 (6-0)
• Approved conditional building permit extension for 24 Meadowview Drive until Nov 3, 2021, with $100/day bond forfeiture if incomplete (6-0)
• Approved August 4, 2021 summary notes (6-0)

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Northfield Plan and Zoning Commission will consider a request from Northfield Storage Properties, LLC (dba Extra Space Storage) to amend Special Use Ordinance 14-1600 for the property at 275 Northfield Road. The amendment would allow the Village Board to approve a change of ownership without requiring future owners to obtain a new special use permit. The commission will also approve the summary notes from its September 8, 2021 meeting.

• Amendment to Special Use Ordinance 14-1600 for 275 Northfield Road
• Petitioner: Northfield Storage Properties, LLC (John Mengel)
• Property Index Number: 04-24-413-047
• Project Number: 2021-0389
• Approval of summary notes from September 8, 2021 meeting

The Plan and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended that the Village Board approve an amendment to the special use ordinance for the self-storage facility at 275 Northfield Road. The amendment would allow a change in ownership without a new public hearing, provided the new owner is creditworthy and accepts all conditions. The recommendation includes a condition that the buyer's identity be disclosed by the December 7, 2021 Village Board meeting, or the amendment becomes void.

• Recommended amending special use ordinance 14-1600 to allow ownership transfer without new hearing (unanimous)
• Added condition: buyer identity must be disclosed by Dec 7, 2021 Board meeting or amendment is void
• Added condition: petitioner must restore plantings to conform with approved landscape plan
• Approved minutes from September 8, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will consider a request to amend Special Use Ordinance Number 14-1600. The proposal seeks to allow future owners of the property to bypass the requirement for a new Special Use permit during ownership changes.

• Amendment to Special Use Ordinance Number 14-1600 for 275 Northfield Road

Village Board

The Village Board will review the Police Pension Actuarial Report, which recommends increasing the village's contribution to $1,450,628 for FY2021-22, and the draft Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for FY2020-21, which shows a $6.5 million unassigned fund balance. The board will also adjourn to closed session to approve minutes and discuss internal audit controls and fraud risks.

• Police pension contribution increase from $1,390,445 to $1,450,628 (4.3% increase)
• Police pension fund funded ratio improved from 59.64% to 61.59%
• Unfunded pension liability remains at $14.1 million
• Draft CAFR for FY2020-21 with unqualified opinion and $6.5 million unassigned fund balance
• Closed session to approve April 20, 2021 minutes and discuss internal audit controls

The Committee of the Whole reviewed the Police Pension Actuarial Report and the draft Comprehensive Annual Financial Report but took no formal votes on either. The board discussed the pension fund's 61.59% funding level and the recommended contribution increase to $1,450,628, but no action was taken. The meeting adjourned to closed session and then back to open session before adjourning.

• Approved August 17, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed Police Pension Actuarial Report; no action taken
• Reviewed draft FY2020/2021 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report; no action taken
• Adjourned to closed session to approve closed session minutes and discuss audit controls
• Returned to open session and adjourned

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board will consider a special use permit for a restaurant at 300 Happ Road, approve several contracts and purchases, and vote on code amendments. The agenda also includes consent items for bills and a commission appointment, plus a presentation of a new police officer.

• Special use for Happ Fields LLC to operate a restaurant at 300 Happ Road
• Emergency sanitary slip lining contract to Hoerr Construction for $37,397.50 on Somerset Lane and Harding Road
• Purchase of two 2022 Ford Utility Interceptor Police Pursuit Vehicles for $73,605 from Morrow Brothers
• Purchase of two Ford F350 pickup trucks from Roesch Ford for $37,061 and $36,871
• Amendments to allow private street signs and grant Zoning Board of Appeals authority to require compliance bonds

The Village Board approved a special use for Happ Fields LLC to operate a restaurant at 300 Happ Road, with new hours of 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. The board also approved amendments to the safety code granting the Zoning Board of Appeals authority to require compliance bonds for building permit extensions, and to allow private street signs in the right of way. Several contracts were awarded, including emergency sanitary sewer slip lining and the purchase of police and public works vehicles.

• Approved special use for Happ Fields LLC restaurant at 300 Happ Road (unanimous)
• Approved amendment granting ZBA authority to require compliance bonds up to 10% of construction cost or $20,000 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to allow private street signs in right of way, with repair costs borne by private owners (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of bidding and $37,397.50 contract to Hoerr Construction for emergency sanitary slip lining (unanimous)
• Approved $73,605 purchase of two 2022 Ford Utility Interceptor police vehicles (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance declaring PSO Car #7 and Staff Car #25 surplus (unanimous)
• Approved $37,061 purchase of Ford F350 pickup truck from Roesch Ford (unanimous)
• Approved $36,871 purchase of second Ford F350 pickup truck from Roesch Ford (unanimous)

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a request for a Special Use to operate a fast service sit-down restaurant with outdoor seating and carry-out service at 300 Happ Road, Suites 108 and 109. The special use is required due to a change of ownership for U Dawg U, with no change in the operation of the existing store.

• Special Use request for fast service sit-down restaurant with outdoor seating and carry-out service
• Property at 300 Happ Road, Suites 108 and 109
• Petitioner: Nassir Ali - Happ Fields, LLC – D/B/A U Dawg U
• Property Index Number: 05-19-327-009
• Project Number: 2021-0368

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will consider a request for a Special Use to allow a fast service sit-down restaurant with outdoor seating and carry-out service at 300 Happ Road, Suites 108 and 109. The request is required due to a change of ownership for U Dawg U, with no change in restaurant operations. The commission will discuss and potentially decide on this item.

• Special Use request for U Dawg U at 300 Happ Road, Suites 108 and 109
• Petitioner: Nassir Ali - Happ Fields, LLC – D/B/A U Dawg U
• Property Index Number: 05-19-327-009
• Project Number: 2021-0368
• Approval of summary notes from March 1, 2021 meeting

The Northfield Plan and Zoning Commission held a public hearing and voted unanimously to recommend approval of a special use permit for a restaurant at 300 Happ Road, Suites 108-109, operated by Happ Fields, LLC (Nassir Ali, 100% owner). The permit is personal to the petitioner and includes conditions on hours, seating, parking, and maintenance. The recommendation will go to the Village Board for final decision on September 21, 2021.

• Approved motion to recommend special use permit for U Dawg U (unanimous)
• Special use limited to Happ Fields, LLC; lapses on ownership change
• Hours of operation set to 10 a.m.–9 p.m., seven days a week
• Restaurant limited to existing 2,730 sq ft space and 58 indoor seats
• Outdoor dining limited to 16 seats, no music, must be kept clean
• Employees must park in remote areas of the parking lot
• Delivery vehicles must park in southernmost loading area
• Pest control and grease trap maintenance required monthly

Police Pension Board

The Northfield Police Pension Board approved retirement benefits for Deputy Chief McCulloh, who served over 23 years. The board also approved the Great Lakes Advisors investment report, the treasurer's report and bills totaling $105,504.33, and re-elected officers for a one-year term. Resolutions for signatory authority and authorized representatives were passed, and an accounting services contract was awarded to Lauterbach & Amen.

• Approved retirement benefits application for Deputy Chief McCulloh (5-0)
• Approved Great Lakes Advisors quarterly investment report (5-0)
• Approved treasurer's report and bills totaling $105,504.33 (5-0)
• Re-elected officers: Smith (President), Lustig (Vice President), Whiteman (Secretary), Hanus (Assistant Secretary) (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-01 for signatory authority (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-02 appointing authorized representatives to IPOPIF (5-0)
• Approved one-year engagement letter with Lauterbach & Amen for accounting services (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 22, 2021 meeting (5-0)

Village Board

The Committee of the Whole will review the Village’s Public Way Use Policy regarding private roadway signs and the placement of social messaging symbols on Village property. Staff is seeking direction on whether to exempt private signs from licensing requirements and how to handle flags or banners representing various observances.

• Review of Private Roadway Signs standards
• Discussion on Social Messaging (flags/symbols) on Village property
• Review of Public Way Use Policy amendments

The Village Board discussed two Public Way Use Policy items. It decided to amend the policy to exempt private roadway signs, grandfathering existing ones, with new standards for height, size, location, plantings, lighting, and sightlines. The Board also voted to allow 'governmental speech' on Village property, permitting social messaging like Pride flags on 8 designated brackets, subject to annual proclamations and Board-approved designs, with a one-month display limit.

• Amended Public Way Use Policy to exempt private roadway signs, with standards and grandfathering (unanimous)
• Adopted 'governmental speech' approach for social messaging on Village property (4-2)
• Set parameters: annual proclamation required, Board-approved design, 8 brackets only, one-month display limit

Village Board

The Village Board approved a $963,607 contract with Patrick Engineering for Phase II and land acquisition services for the Happ Road project, with the County covering 100% of costs except enhancements. The Board also approved a $59,000 (plus $10,000 contingency) engineering contract for the Bosworth Pedestrian Bridge and extended the Crown Castle lease at 1800 Winnetka Avenue until November 30, 2021. All votes were unanimous with Trustee Dinges absent.

• Approved $963,607 Patrick Engineering contract for Happ Road Phase II and land acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved $59,000 plus $10,000 contingency Christopher Burke Engineering contract for Bosworth Pedestrian Bridge (unanimous)
• Approved resolution extending Crown Castle lease at 1800 Winnetka Avenue until November 30, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including July 20 meeting minutes, $242,719.38 in bills, and commission reappointments (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a public hearing on two continuation requests for time extensions on residential construction projects, one of which also seeks minor setback variations. The board will consider these requests for properties on Lagoon Drive and Meadowview Drive.

• 192 Lagoon Drive: extension of time to complete construction and variation for 0.10 ft north side yard setback encroachment (6.90 ft vs 7.00 ft required)
• 192 Lagoon Drive: variation for 0.01 ft east front yard setback encroachment (29.99 ft vs 30.00 ft required)
• 192 Lagoon Drive: two-story single family residence on existing foundation; petitioners Hyungsig and Michelle Sonn
• 24 Meadowview Drive: extension of time to complete construction of three-car attached garage and second floor addition
• 24 Meadowview Drive: petitioners Todd Luetkemeyer and Courtney Wells

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved conditional extensions for building permits at 192 Lagoon Drive and 24 Meadowview Drive, both until October 6, 2021. The Lagoon Drive extension includes a $100 per day penalty from the completion bond if work is not finished. The board also approved the July 7, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Approved July 7, 2021 summary notes (4-0)
• Granted conditional building permit extension for 192 Lagoon Drive until Oct 6, 2021, with $100/day bond forfeiture if incomplete (4-0)
• Granted conditional building permit extension for 24 Meadowview Drive until Oct 6, 2021 (4-0)

Village Board

The Village Board will consider approving a roofing contract for the Village Hall/Police building and handle routine consent items including bills and a commission appointment. The meeting also includes informational department updates and upcoming meeting dates.

• Roofing contract with Garland/DBS for $191,893 plus 5% contingency for Village Hall/Police roof
• Consent agenda: approve June 15, 2021 meeting minutes
• Consent agenda: approve bills and disbursements totaling $952,465.09 for June 2021
• Consent agenda: appoint Thomas Macina to Zoning Board of Appeals (unexpired term 07-21 to 09-21)
• Public comment period and departmental updates

The Board approved a roofing material and services contract with Garland/DBS for $191,893 plus a 5% ($9,594.65) contingency, using an OMNIA cooperative purchasing agreement. The project addresses leaks and deterioration on the 25+ year-old Village Hall roof, with DCG Roofing Solutions as the low-bid installer. The Board also approved the consent agenda, including minutes, bills of $952,465.09, and a Zoning Board appointment.

• Approved consent agenda items 1-3, including June 15 meeting minutes, bills totaling $952,465.09, and Thomas Macina's Zoning Board appointment
• Approved roofing contract with Garland/DBS for $191,893 plus 5% contingency for Village Hall roof restoration
• Approved meeting adjournment at 7:27 p.m.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will consider three requests: a variation for a one-story addition at 1898 Abbott Court, an extension of time and minor setback encroachments for a home at 192 Lagoon Drive, and a time extension for construction at 24 Meadowview Drive. The board will also approve the minutes from its May 5, 2021 meeting.

• 1898 Abbott Court: 4-foot east side yard variation (required 7 feet, requested 3 feet) for a one-story addition
• 192 Lagoon Drive: extension of time and encroachments of 0.10 ft into north side yard and 0.01 ft into east front yard for a two-story residence
• 24 Meadowview Drive: extension of time to complete construction of a three-car garage and second-floor addition
• Approval of May 5, 2021 meeting minutes

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for a one-story addition at 1898 Abbott Court, granted a conditional building permit extension for 192 Lagoon Drive with a $10,000 completion bond, and granted a conditional extension for 24 Meadowview Drive with specific exterior work requirements. The board also approved the May 5, 2021, meeting minutes.

• Approved a 4-foot east side yard setback variation for 1898 Abbott Court, allowing a one-story addition, subject to conditions and expiring July 7, 2022.
• Granted a building permit extension for 192 Lagoon Drive until August 4, 2021, requiring a $10,000 completion bond for exterior work; bond forfeited if work not completed.
• Granted a building permit extension for 24 Meadowview Drive until August 4, 2021, requiring siding installation, dumpster removal, window installation, and lift removal.
• Stopped the $200-per-day forfeiture from the $10,000 completion bond for 24 Meadowview Drive as of July 7, 2021.
• Approved the May 5, 2021, summary notes by a 4-0 vote.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on July 7, 2021, to consider three requests. These include a side yard variation for a home addition, an extension of time and minor setback variations for a residence under construction, and another time extension for a garage and second floor addition. The board will decide whether to grant these requests.

• 1898 Abbott Court: request for 4-foot east side yard variation (from 7 to 3 feet) for a one-story addition
• 192 Lagoon Drive: request for time extension and minimal encroachments (0.10 ft north side, 0.01 ft east front) for a two-story home
• 24 Meadowview Drive: request for time extension to complete a three-car attached garage and second floor addition

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board Committee of the Whole will continue discussions on the draft 2021-22 Core Objectives and draft Village Board Procedural Guidelines. A presentation from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) on their Community Data Snapshot and ON TO 2050 regional plan is also scheduled. The meeting includes approval of the May 18, 2021 proceedings and public comment.

• CMAP presentation on Community Data Snapshot and ON TO 2050 plan
• Continued discussion on draft FY2021/22 Core Objectives, including financial strength, infrastructure, pensions, and green initiatives
• Continued discussion on draft Village Board Procedural Guidelines covering agenda development, board concerns, and emergency communications
• Approval of May 18, 2021 Committee of the Whole Report of Proceedings

The Village Board approved updated procedural guidelines, including new emergency crisis communication protocols and a change to share v-group responses in the Friday update. After discussion, the Board decided to leave the 2020-21 core objectives unchanged. The Board also unanimously approved the May 18, 2021 meeting minutes and heard a presentation from CMAP on regional planning.

• Approved the May 18, 2021 Report of Proceedings unanimously
• Approved the updated Village Board procedural guidelines
• Decided to leave the Village Board 2020-21 Core Objectives unchanged

Village Board

The Village Board is set to approve the purchase of a bucket truck, dump truck, and sewer cleaner for Public Works. The agenda also includes amending an ordinance regarding dog and cat bites and approving May bills and disbursements totaling $375,554.25.

• Purchase of one multipurpose vehicle (bucket truck) from Sutton Ford of Matteson for $118,265.00
• Purchase of one large tandem axle dump truck from JX Enterprises of Wadsworth for $183,955.00
• Purchase of one Vactor Sewer Cleaner from Standard Equipment of Elmhurst for $415,640.79
• Approval of an ordinance amending Chapter 17, Section 12 regarding 'Dog and/or Cat Bites'
• Approval of May 2021 Bills and Disbursements totaling $375,554.25

The Village Board approved the purchase of a multipurpose vehicle (bucket truck) for $118,265 and a tandem axle dump truck for $183,955, along with ordinances declaring the old vehicles surplus for trade-in. They also approved a $418,635.79 Vactor sewer cleaner and its surplus ordinance, plus a consent agenda including bills of $375,554.25. An amendment to Chapter 17 on dog/cat bites was approved, and a public comment on LGBTQ pride flags was read.

• Approved consent agenda including May 18 minutes and $375,554.25 bills (unanimous)
• Approved dog/cat bite code amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $118,265 multipurpose vehicle purchase from Sutton Ford (unanimous)
• Approved surplus ordinance for 2006 Ford F550 bucket truck (unanimous)
• Approved $183,955 dump truck purchase from JX Enterprises (unanimous)
• Approved surplus ordinance for 1995 International dump truck (unanimous)
• Approved $418,635.79 Vactor sewer cleaner purchase (unanimous)
• Approved surplus ordinance for existing Vac-Con truck (unanimous)

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will consider two requests: permanent signage for Imperial Nails & Spa at 1900 Willow Road, and a fence variation at 516 Somerset Lane to allow a six-foot front yard fence where four feet is the limit. The meeting also includes approval of summary notes from the March 8, 2021 meeting.

• Permanent signage for Imperial Nails & Spa at 1900 Willow Road
• Fence variation request by Steven and Janice Feldman at 516 Somerset Lane
• Approval of summary notes from March 8, 2021 meeting

The Architectural Commission approved a fence height variance for 516 Somerset Lane and approved a wall sign for Imperial Nails & Spa at 1900 Willow Road, with conditions. The hanging sign for the nail salon was not approved.

• Approved fence variation at 516 Somerset Lane to allow 6-foot fence in front yard (5-0)
• Approved wall sign for Imperial Nails & Spa at 1900 Willow Road, with conditions (5-0)
• Denied hanging sign for Imperial Nails & Spa; applicant may return later

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board Committee of the Whole will discuss and potentially shape the FY2021-22 Core Objectives, which guide project and resource priorities, and consider draft procedural guidelines for board communications and operations. Both items are for discussion and input, not final decisions.

• Discussion of FY2021-22 Core Objectives, including water system monthly billing, storm water projects, and pension transition
• Review of draft Village Board Procedural Guidelines covering agenda setting, board communications, and media inquiries
• Approval of April 20, 2021 Committee of the Whole minutes
• Public comment period

The Village Board discussed draft FY2021/22 Core Objectives, with trustees suggesting community clean-up programs, parking improvements, and a centennial celebration. The Board also reviewed procedural guidelines and agreed to add crisis communication protocols. The 4th of July parade was cancelled due to COVID-19 safety concerns for unvaccinated children, with a possible alternative event with the Park District.

• Approved April 20, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Cancelled 4th of July parade due to COVID-19 safety
• Discussed draft FY2021/22 Core Objectives; revisions to be brought back
• Reviewed procedural guidelines; agreed to add crisis communication protocols

Village Board

The Village Board is reviewing a contract with Gewalt Hamilton for FY2022/23 water main project engineering. The agenda also includes a contract extension with Lauterbach & Amen and several commission appointments.

• Contract with Gewalt Hamilton for water main engineering work ($134,500)
• Contract extension with Lauterbach & Amen for finance department services
• Approval of April 2021 bills and disbursements totaling $726,762.37
• Appointments to Plan and Zoning, Architectural, Police Pension, and ZBA commissions
• Addendum to Village Manager employment terms and conditions

The Village Board approved a $134,500 contract with Gewalt Hamilton Associates for design engineering of the next phase of water main replacement/lining projects, covering approximately 7,100 linear feet of priority segments. The board also approved a contract extension with Lauterbach & Amen for finance department services, with a monthly fee of $17,940 for FY 2021/22. All consent agenda items, including bills of $726,762.37 and commission appointments, were approved unanimously.

• Approved $134,500 contract with Gewalt Hamilton for water main design engineering (unanimous)
• Approved contract extension with Lauterbach & Amen for finance services at $17,940/month (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda: April meeting minutes, $726,762.37 in bills, commission appointments, Village Manager addendum, and service resolutions (unanimous)
• Corrected April 20, 2021 roll call to all 'Ayes' for FY2021/22 budget

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a remote public hearing on May 5, 2021, to consider a request for a north side yard variation at 318 Latrobe Avenue. The applicants seek a 5.32-foot reduction from the required 15-foot setback, resulting in a 9.68-foot setback, to install a hot tub. Written comments may be submitted before the meeting.

• Request for north side yard variation at 318 Latrobe Avenue
• Proposed 5.32-foot reduction from required 15.00 feet to 9.68 feet
• Purpose: to allow for a hot tub
• Applicants: Todd and Betsy Harootyan
• Public comment deadline: 4:30 p.m. on May 5, 2021

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a remote meeting via Zoom to consider one agenda item: a request for a north side yard variation at 318 Latrobe Avenue. The variation would reduce the required setback from 15 feet to 9.68 feet to accommodate a hot tub. The board will also approve summary notes from its December 2, 2020 meeting.

• North side yard variation of 5.32 feet at 318 Latrobe Avenue (required 15 feet, proposed 9.68 feet) for a hot tub
• Applicants: Todd and Betsy Harootyan
• Property Index Number: 05-19-305-021
• Project Number: 2021-0080
• Approval of summary notes from December 2, 2020 meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a 5.32-foot north side yard variance at 318 Latrobe Avenue, allowing a 9.68-foot setback instead of the required 15 feet, to place a portable hot tub on an existing patio. The variance is subject to conditions, including a one-year expiration unless a building permit is issued. The board also approved the December 2, 2020, meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved north side yard variance for hot tub at 318 Latrobe Ave (5-0)
• Approved December 2, 2020, meeting minutes (5-0)

Village Board

This is a special Village Board meeting held remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19. The agenda contains no consent or action items, only roll call, public comment, and information items such as questions from new board members and upcoming meeting schedules. The meeting is largely procedural with no decisions or discussions of substance.

• No consent agenda items
• No action items
• Upcoming meetings: May 5 Zoning Board of Appeals at 7:00 p.m., May 18 Committee of the Whole and Village Board meetings

The special meeting was held to seat newly elected trustees Tracey Mendrek, Barnaby Dinges, and Matt Galin after election certification. No consent or action items were on the agenda, and no substantive decisions were made. The board also thanked outgoing members, including President Joan Frazier and Trustees John Goodwin and Tom Terrill.

• Seated new trustees Tracey Mendrek, Barnaby Dinges, and Matt Galin
• Adjourned meeting (motion approved, 5-0)

Police Pension Board

The Northfield Police Pension Board approved the March 31, 2021 investment report from Great Lakes Advisors, the treasurer's report, and $53,153.15 in bills for February–April 2021. It also accepted disability documentation for Officer Hoffman, confirmed trustee re-appointments, and approved prior meeting minutes. No public comment was made and no closed session was held.

• Approved January 21, 2021 meeting minutes (voice vote, unanimous)
• Approved Great Lakes Advisors investment report for Q1 2021 (roll call, 5-0)
• Approved treasurer's report and $53,153.15 in bills (roll call, 5-0)
• Accepted disability certification for Officer Hoffman (voice vote, unanimous)
• Accepted election results for trustee terms starting May 1, 2021 (voice vote, unanimous)

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board is meeting to approve prior minutes and then adjourn to closed session to discuss the sale or lease of real property, specifically the Crown Castle cell tower lease at 1800 Winnetka Avenue, which expires June 20, 2021. No formal action on the lease is scheduled; terms will be discussed privately and a draft lease will be brought back later.

• Closed session to set price for sale or lease of real property (Crown Castle cell tower lease)
• Approval of March 16, 2021 Committee of the Whole minutes
• Approval of closed session minutes from January 19, 2021

The Village Board discussed the expiring Crown Castle cell tower lease at 1800 Winnetka Avenue but took no action, as negotiations on an extension have stalled. The board approved the March 16, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously and moved to closed session to discuss the lease price and approve prior closed session minutes.

• Approved March 16, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved to closed session to discuss lease price and approve January 19, 2021 closed session minutes

Village Board

The Village Board will vote on the FY2021/22 budget, which includes increased water and sewer rates starting June 1, 2021. The board will also re-establish the Foreign Fire Insurance Board and approve March bills totaling $387,638.77. Additionally, the board will appoint Steven Noble as Treasurer for the remainder of 2021.

• Adoption of the FY2021/22 Village Budget
• Amendment to Appendix D for water and sewer rates effective June 1, 2021
• Re-establishment of the Foreign Fire Insurance Board
• Approval of March 2021 bills and disbursements totaling $387,638.77
• Appointment of Steven Noble as Treasurer

The Village Board approved the FY2021/22 budget, which includes $30,000 for business support and $10,000 for emergency animal control, and allows the 50/50 parkway tree grant program to exceed its $5,000 budget using reserves. The Board also approved a 15.5% water/sewer rate increase effective June 1, 2021, raising the combined rate from $9.09 to $10.50 per 100 cubic feet, and moving to monthly billing starting May 1, 2021. Additionally, the Board re-established a Foreign Fire Insurance Board to manage state-collected fire insurance tax funds, and approved consent agenda items including March minutes, $387,638.77 in bills, and the reappointment of Steven Noble as Treasurer.

• Approved FY2021/22 Village budget ordinance (6-0)
• Approved water/sewer rate increase of 15.5% effective June 1, 2021 (6-0)
• Approved ordinance re-establishing Foreign Fire Insurance Board (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda: March 16 minutes, $387,638.77 in bills, Steven Noble as Treasurer (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:36 p.m. (6-0)

Village Board

The Village of Northfield Committee of the Whole is meeting remotely to continue discussion on a proposed seasonal ban of gas-powered leaf blowers, which was first raised at the February 16 meeting. The board will also receive an update on the 'Shop. Eat. Explore. Find it in Northfield' initiative and its survey results. The agenda includes approval of prior meeting minutes and other routine business.

• Continued discussion on seasonal ban of gas-powered leaf blowers
• Update and survey results for 'Shop. Eat. Explore. Find it in Northfield'
• Approval of February 16, 2021 Committee of the Whole Report of Proceedings
• Approval of March 2, 2021 Committee of the Whole Report of Proceedings

The Village Board discussed a proposed seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers from May 15 to September 30, presented by Go Green Northfield. No vote was taken; the board directed staff to draft an ordinance for a future vote. The board also approved minutes from previous meetings and received an update on the 'Shop. Eat. Explore. Find it in Northfield' initiative.

• Approved February 16, 2021 Report of Proceedings (unanimous)
• Approved March 2, 2021 Report of Proceedings on proposed FY2021/2022 budget (unanimous)
• Directed drafting of gas leaf blower ban ordinance for future vote (no formal vote taken)

Village Board

The Village Board will meet via Zoom to discuss an ordinance banning gas-powered leaf blowers from May through September. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding the proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning May 1, 2021.

• Ordinance to ban gas-powered leaf blowers from May 15th through September 30th
• Public Hearing on the proposed FY2021/2022 budget
• Ordinance to abate Longmeadow Special Service Area taxes for 2020 in the amount of $50,000
• Approval of February 2021 bills and disbursements totaling $791,765.36
• Execution of a 12th State of Emergency Declaration due to COVID-19 until April 20, 2021

The Village Board approved an ordinance banning gas-powered leaf blowers from May 15 through September 30. It also approved a special use amendment for a 621-square-foot garage addition at 510 Briar Lane and a parking variation for a men's hair salon at 1751 Orchard Lane. The board approved a resolution abating $50,000 of the 2020 tax levy for the Longmeadow Special Service Area. A proposed $17,660 entryway sign on Willow Road was postponed for one year.

• Approved consent agenda: February 16, 2021 meeting minutes and bills/disbursements of $791,765.36.
• Approved ordinance banning gas-powered leaf blowers from May 15 through September 30.
• Approved special use amendment for a 621 sq ft garage addition at 510 Briar Lane (total 5,705 sq ft).
• Approved parking variation for a men's hair salon at 1751 Orchard Lane.
• Approved resolution abating $50,000 of the 2020 tax levy for the Longmeadow Special Service Area.
• Postponed discussion of a new $17,660 entryway sign on Willow Road for one year.
• Retracted the 12th State of Emergency Declaration due to COVID-19.
• Held a public hearing on the FY2021/2022 budget; no comments received.

Architectural Commission

The Northfield Architectural Commission will hold a remote public hearing to consider two signage requests: a continuation for permanent signage at 423 Central Avenue and a new request for a signage plan with two variations at 1622 Willow Road. The meeting will be conducted via Zoom due to the COVID-19 crisis, and written comments will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on the meeting day.

• 423 Central Avenue: continuation of request for permanent signage for Bernardi Securities
• 1622 Willow Road: request for signage plan with two variations
• Variance from Section 12-3 for additional signs on principal street exposure side
• Variance from Section 12-4(7) for wall sign placed higher than second floor windowsill
• Public comments accepted via online form, email, or mail until 4:30 p.m. on March 8, 2021

Architectural Commission

The Northfield Architectural Commission will meet remotely to consider signage requests, including a continuation for Bernardi Securities at 423 Central Avenue and a new signage plan with two variations for 1622 Willow Road. They will also discuss adding permanent signage for Wintrust Community Bank at 1852 Willow Road. The meeting includes approval of previous meeting notes and public comment procedures.

• 423 Central Avenue: continuation for permanent signage for Bernardi Securities
• 1622 Willow Road: signage plan with two variations (additional signs and wall sign height)
• 1852 Willow Road: consideration of addition to permanent signage for Wintrust Community Bank
• Approval of summary notes from February 8, 2021 meeting

The Northfield Architectural Commission approved all three agenda items: a permanent ground sign for Bernardi Securities at 423 Central Avenue, a signage plan with two variations for 1622 Willow Road, and additions to signage for Wintrust Community Bank at 1852 Willow Road. All votes were unanimous. The meeting was held remotely due to COVID-19.

• Approved permanent ground sign for Bernardi Securities at 423 Central Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved signage plan with two variations for 1622 Willow Road (unanimous)
• Approved signage additions for Wintrust Community Bank at 1852 Willow Road (unanimous)

Village Board

The Village Board is holding a budget workshop to discuss the proposed FY2021-22 operating budget, capital programs, and new programs. The budget includes a 15.5% water/sewer rate increase, a $1.79 million capital plan, and a projected General Fund deficit of $325,000. The meeting is remote via Zoom due to COVID-19.

• 15.5% water/sewer rate increase effective May 1, 2021, raising rate from $9.09 to $10.50 per 100 cubic feet
• $1.79 million capital improvement program including $225,000 for Village Hall/Police roof replacement
• $152,900 in roadway work including $58,000 for Sunset Drive bridge deck repair
• $250,000 for MWRD-required sanitary sewer rehabilitation
• General Fund budget of $11.66 million with projected $325,000 deficit

The Village Board discussed the proposed FY21/22 budget, which relies on $325,000 in reserves and includes a 15.5% water/sewer rate increase. The Board agreed to include a $30,000 Business Support Program in the final budget, declined a $60,000 coyote culling program but added $10,000 for dangerous situations, and removed the cap on the 50/50 parkway tree program. No formal votes were taken; the budget will be adopted on April 20.

• Agreed to include $30,000 for the Business Support Program in the final budget
• Declined the Coyote Culling Program but directed $10,000 to the Police budget for dangerous situations
• Removed the cap on the 50/50 parkway tree program, allowing all requests in FY21/22
• Discussed the FY21/22 draft budget, including a 15.5% water/sewer rate increase
• Noted the public hearing on the budget is set for March 16, with adoption on April 20

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Northfield Plan and Zoning Commission will hold a remote meeting to consider two requests: a special use amendment for a garage addition at 510 Briar Lane and a parking variation for a proposed men's hair salon at 1751 Orchard Lane. The commission will also approve summary notes from the January 4, 2021 meeting. Public comments may be submitted in writing before 4:30 p.m. on the meeting day.

• Special use amendment for 621 sq ft garage addition at 510 Briar Lane, exceeding the 1,200 sq ft code limit (total 5,705 sq ft)
• Parking variation for men's hair salon at 1751 Orchard Lane, one space short of code requirement
• Approval of January 4, 2021 meeting summary notes

The Plan and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of two requests to the Village Board. The first is an amendment to a special use permit for 510 Briar Lane, allowing an additional 621 square feet of garage space, with a condition for additional plantings. The second is a parking variance for 1751 Orchard Lane, allowing a barber shop to operate with fewer parking spaces than required, with conditions on employee count and hours.

• Approved minutes of the previous meeting by roll call vote.
• Recommended approval of special use amendment for 510 Briar Lane (additional 621 sq ft garage) with conditions, including additional plantings.
• Recommended approval of parking variance for 1751 Orchard Lane (barber shop) with conditions, including max 3 employees and hours 8:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Mon–Sat.
• Adjourned meeting at 7:56 p.m.

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board will meet remotely to consider several action items, including the purchase of a police vehicle, a license agreement for right-of-way use, and an extension of the COVID-19 state of emergency. The board will also approve consent agenda items such as bills totaling $630,192.72 and appointments. Public comments will be read into the record.

• Purchase of 2021 Ford AWD Police Interceptor for $36,620 from Morrow Brothers Ford
• License agreement for private use of right of way at 352 Jeffery Lane
• 11th State of Emergency Declaration due to COVID-19 until March 16, 2021
• Approve bills and disbursements totaling $630,192.72
• Resolution appointing Melissa Jewett and Stacy Sigman to North Suburban Employee Benefit Cooperative

The Village Board approved the consent agenda, including minutes, bills of $630,192.72, and two resolutions. They also approved the purchase of a 2021 Ford Police Interceptor for $36,620, a license agreement for a fence at 352 Jeffery Lane, and the 11th State of Emergency Declaration due to COVID-19. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved consent agenda items 1-4 (unanimous)
• Approved $36,620 purchase of 2021 Ford Police Interceptor from Morrow Brothers Ford (unanimous)
• Approved license agreement for private use of right of way at 352 Jeffery Lane (unanimous)
• Executed 11th State of Emergency Declaration due to COVID-19 until March 16, 2021 (no objections)

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board Committee of the Whole will discuss two items: a review of the existing Tree Preservation Code and a request from Go Green Northfield to consider a seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers. The meeting is scheduled for February 16, 2021, via Zoom.

• Discussion on Tree Preservation Code, including potential expansion of protected areas and fee-in-lieu changes
• Go Green Northfield request to ban gas-powered leaf blowers from mid-May to end of September
• Approval of January 19, 2021 Committee of the Whole Report of Proceedings

The Village Board held a Committee of the Whole meeting with no formal votes on substantive items. They discussed potential changes to the Tree Preservation Code, including expanding protection to entire single-family lots and increasing fees, but made no decisions. The board also discussed a seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers proposed by Go Green Northfield, continuing the discussion to the March 16, 2021 meeting. The only action taken was approving the January 19, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Approved January 19, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• No decision on Tree Preservation Code changes; discussion continued
• No decision on gas-powered leaf blower restrictions; discussion continued to March 16, 2021

Architectural Commission

The Northfield Architectural Commission will meet remotely on February 8, 2021, to consider one agenda item: a request for permanent signage and landscaping for Bernardi Securities at 423 Central Avenue. The commission will also approve summary notes from its November 9, 2020 meeting. Public comments may be submitted before the meeting.

• 423 Central Avenue: permanent signage and landscaping for Bernardi Securities
• Petitioner: Ronald Bernardi
• Property Index Number: 05-19-114-001
• Project Number: 2021-0011
• Approval of summary notes from November 9, 2020 meeting

The Northfield Architectural Commission approved the landscaping plan for Bernardi Securities at 423 Central Avenue by a unanimous roll-call vote. The commission continued the request for the monument and wall signage to the March 8th meeting, asking the petitioner to return with color samples and a visual mockup showing the lettering against the background color.

• Approved landscaping plan for 423 Central Avenue (5-0)
• Continued signage request for 423 Central Avenue to March 8, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved November 9, 2020 meeting minutes (voice vote)

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board Committee of the Whole will review a request from Tracey Mendrick, new owner of 352 Jeffery Lane, for a license agreement to erect a fence and use a 45' x 83' portion of the village's 100' wide right of way for her dog. The board will also receive an update on the 'Shop. Eat. Explore. Find it in Northfield' business promotion program, including results from a December social media campaign that reached 68,500 people at a cost of $1,800. No formal votes are scheduled; the license agreement, if approved, would be drafted for the February board agenda.

• License agreement request for fence and dog run in village right of way at 352 Jeffery Lane
• Proposed fence extension 83' east and 43' section with 12' double gate for utility access
• Update on 'Shop. Eat. Explore. Find it in Northfield' business promotion program
• December social media campaign: 12 ads, 68,500 reach, 361 engagements, $1,800 cost
• Discussion of future promotion ideas including gift cards, holiday promotions, and COVID-related grants

The Village Board unanimously approved the December 1, 2020 meeting minutes. The Board reached consensus to move forward with a license agreement allowing Tracey Mendrek, owner of 352 Jeffery Lane, to erect a fence and use a 45'x83' portion of the village right of way for a dog run, waiving the $1,000,000 insurance requirement as long as the village is named as an additional insured. Staff was directed to prepare the agreement for the February meeting. The Board also supported the 'Eat. Shop. Explore. Find it in Northfield' initiative and agreed to an additional $15,000 in expenditures for the program this fiscal year.

• Approved December 1, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Consensus to proceed with license agreement for dog run fence at 352 Jeffery Lane, waiving $1,000,000 insurance if village named additional insured
• Directed staff to prepare license agreement for February Village Board meeting
• Agreed to $15,000 additional expenditure for 'Eat. Shop. Explore. Find it in Northfield' program

Village Board

The Plan & Zoning Commission is reviewing proposed Village Code amendments to permit adult-use cannabis dispensaries as a special use. The proposal would allow these businesses in the B-1 Community Commercial District and O/R Office/Research districts while prohibiting other types of cannabis businesses like cultivation centers or processors.

• Designate adult-use cannabis dispensaries as a special use in B-1 (Waukegan Road) and O/R (Frontage Road and Central Avenue) districts
• Prohibit craft growers, cultivation centers, infusers, processors, and transporters within the Village
• Establish a minimum distance of 500 feet between dispensaries and sensitive facilities like schools, parks, and houses of worship
• Set operating hours for cannabis dispensaries from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Require one parking space per 250 square feet of floor area for dispensaries

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board will consider ordinances to allow adult-use cannabis dispensaries and impose a municipal cannabis retailers' occupation tax, along with a special use for a medical office and a lot consolidation. The board will also vote on a $161,850 auditing contract with Baker Tilly, intergovernmental agreements for fire training and snow removal, and a 10th COVID-19 emergency declaration. Consent items include approval of $2,503,517.74 in bills and annual appointments.

• Ordinance to allow adult-use cannabis dispensaries and establish regulations
• Municipal cannabis retailers' occupation tax ordinance
• Special use for United Vein Centers medical office at 1622 Willow Road
• Contract award to Baker Tilly for auditing, not to exceed $161,850
• Bills and disbursements totaling $2,503,517.74

The Village Board unanimously approved an ordinance allowing adult-use cannabis dispensaries as a special use in certain commercial districts along Waukegan Road, Frontage Road, and Central Avenue, and imposed a 3% municipal cannabis retailers' occupation tax. The board also approved a consent agenda covering appointments, bills, and other routine items, plus several other ordinances and agreements.

• Approved consent agenda items 1-7 (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance allowing adult-use cannabis dispensaries as special use (unanimous)
• Approved 3% municipal cannabis retailers' occupation tax (unanimous)
• Approved special use for United Vein Centers at 1622 Willow Road (unanimous)
• Approved lot consolidation for Church of St. James at 500 and 550 Sunset Ridge Road (unanimous)
• Approved $161,850 contract with Baker Tilly for auditing services FY2021-2025 (unanimous)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement with Winnetka for fire training tower ($25,000 over 3 years) (unanimous)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement for snow removal mutual aid during COVID-19 (unanimous)

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will consider a lot consolidation at 550 Sunset Ridge Road and a special use permit for a medical clinic at 1622 Willow Road. The commission will also discuss amendments to the Zoning Ordinance regarding adult-use and medical cannabis distribution.

• Lot consolidation of 500 and 550 Sunset Ridge Road
• Special Use request for United Vein Centers at 1622 Willow Road
• Zoning Ordinance amendments for cannabis distribution in B-1 and O/R districts
• Approval of November 2, 2020, Summary Notes

The Northfield Plan and Zoning Commission voted to recommend the Village Board approve text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and Business Regulations to allow adult-use cannabis dispensaries as a special use in the B-1 and O-R districts. The recommendation includes a 500-foot distance requirement from sensitive uses, excluding hospitals, and keeps the state's 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. hours of operation. The Commission also recommended approval of a plat of subdivision for the Episcopal Church of St. James the Less and a special use permit for a vein care center at 1622 Willow Road.

• Recommended approval of preliminary and final plat of consolidation/re-subdivision for the Church of St. James the Less (unanimous).
• Recommended approval of a special use permit for United Vein Centers at 1622 Willow Road (unanimous).
• Recommended approval of Zoning Ordinance text amendments to allow cannabis dispensaries in B-1 and O-R districts (7-2).
• Recommended approval of Business Regulations text amendments for cannabis dispensaries, with hospitals removed from the sensitive uses list (7-2).
• Approved the minutes from the November 2, 2020 meeting (unanimous).

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board of Trustees is holding a remote meeting via Zoom due to COVID-19. The agenda contains only consent agenda items, public comment, and a closed session to discuss employee matters and potential litigation; no specific action items or information items are listed. The meeting is largely procedural with no substantive decisions detailed on the agenda.

• Remote meeting via Zoom due to COVID-19
• Public comment period with submissions due by 4:30 pm on January 4, 2021
• Closed session to discuss employee appointment/compensation/discipline and pending litigation
• No final action planned after closed session