City Council
Regular MeetingDeKalb, IL · February 27, 2023
Minutes
MINUTES
CITY OF DEKALB
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 27, 2023
The City Council of DeKalb, Illinois, held a Regular meeting on February 27, 2023, in the Yusunas
Meeting room of the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak Street, DeKalb, Illinois.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Barnes called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Recording Secretary Ruth Scott called the roll, and the following members of City Council were
present: Alderman Carolyn Morris, Alderman Barb Larson, Alderman Tracy Smith, Alderman Greg
Perkins, Alderman Scott McAdams, Alderman Mike Verbic, and Mayor Cohen Barnes. Alderman
Tony Faivre was absent.
Others in attendance included City Manager Bill Nicklas and City Attorney Matt Rose.
Sasha Cohen was present but not in the capacity of Clerk; he left the meeting at 6:15 p.m.
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Shadow Gentry led the Pledge of Allegiance.
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the agenda; seconded by Alderman Perkins.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
D. PRESENTATIONS
1. DeKalb Public Library Annual Report.
DeKalb Public Library Executive Director Emily Faulkner provided a recap of the Library’s
services, events, and programs during 2022.
Mayor Barnes thanked Ms. Faulkner for use of the Library’s space for mural planning and creation.
Mayor Barnes asked Ms. Faulkner for the number of people who used the Library in 2022. Ms.
Faulkner stated she believes it was approximately 90,000, but she would check and advise.
E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Sasha Cohen spoke regarding what he alleges as misconduct by Alderman McAdams.
F. APPOINTMENTS
Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:
1. Appointment of Shaun Langley to the Citizens’ Environmental Commission for the Completion
of a Two-Year Term through December 31, 2024.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2023
Page 2 of 8
2. Appointment of James Carlin of the DeKalb County Health Department as an Ex-Officio
Member of the Citizens’ Environmental Commission.
3. Reappointment of Nick Newman to the Citizens’ Environmental Commission for the
Completion of a Two-Year Term through December 31, 2024.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the appointments and reappointment; seconded by
Alderman Verbic.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
G. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of February 23, 2023.
MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to approve the minutes as submitted by the Recording
Secretary; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
H. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Barnes read the following Consent Agenda items by title only:
1. Accounts Payable and Payroll through February 27, 2023, in the Amount of $2,785,346.06.
2. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Report for January 2023.
3. FY2022 Human Services Funding Fourth Quarter Report.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman
Larson.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
I. PUBLIC HEARINGS
There were none.
J. CONSIDERATIONS
There were none.
K. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2023-022 Amending Resolution 2022-023 to Extend the Deadline for the
Issuance of a Package Liquor License with Supplemental Drive-Through Licensure for
Blue Ridge LLC – 1221, Located at 1221 W. Lincoln Highway.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2023
Page 3 of 8
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
(This motion was not voted on; see page 4 for final motion and vote.)
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet. The petitioners, Jeff Dobie and Jeff Richardson, are requesting another extension
for the issuance of a bar liquor license with supplemental video gaming, a liquor license for a
drive-through package liquor store, and a license for a video gaming establishment. This grouping
of licenses and allowances was first authorized by the Council on a conditional basis on
September 10, 2018. Since then, the petitioners have received Council extension on October 12,
2020, August 23, 2021, and February 28, 2022. They also received a six-month extension from
the City Manager in 2021.
Following his overview, City Manager Nicklas recommended that Council allow a final 90-day
extension on the condition that the petitioners get a permit for construction of the proposed
building during that time.
Alderman Verbic noted he was generally supportive of business investment in DeKalb unless it’s
to detriment to the city, and asked if there was a downside to allowing the extension.
Brief discussion ensued.
City Manager Nicklas stated if the petitioners had not provided the plans (as shown in the backup
of this agenda item) he would not have recommended the extension.
Alderman Verbic stated he sees a sizable investment in this project by the business owners and
offered his support of granting the extension.
Alderman Verbic then asked what the ramifications are if the petitioners fail to follow through. City
Manager Nicklas replied there needs to be accountability and a commitment to complete what’s
promised.
Discussion ensued.
Alderman Larson stated the City has been holding a video gaming license for this project for
years, and by doing so, may have lost revenue for the City. She further stated she would like to
see a lot of progress on this project if a 90-day extension is granted.
Mr. Richardson thanked Council for being patient with him and Mr. Dobie during this process and
noted it was his recommendation that held the project back in the past because he felt the timing
wasn’t right and it was too risky to build, especially since the cost of building materials was very
high. However, prices are coming down now.
Discussion ensued regarding the timeline of the project and the possibility they may need another
extension.
Mr. Richardson disagreed, stating he doesn’t think another extension will be needed. He also
added that video gaming is a huge component of the plan; without that, the project will not be able
to move forward.
There was brief discussion between Alderman Perkins and Mr. Richardson regarding the timeline
of the project and what comes next if the extension is granted.
Alderman Perkins stated the City is doing everything it can to be business friendly, but this has
been going on for five years and he’d like to see a good faith effort that the project will proceed.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2023
Page 4 of 8
He also agreed with Alderman Larson’s statement regarding the held video gaming license and
potential lost revenue.
Brief discussion ensued between Alderman Smith and Mr. Richardson regarding the previous
business at the subject location (a pancake house) and how long it’s been a vacant lot
(approximately 20 years).
Alderman Smith stated his support for granting one more extension, but Council will need to see
movement on the project.
Mr. Richardson assured Council the project will move forward expeditiously.
Brief discussion ensued regarding building material availability.
City Attorney Rose recommended amending the resolution in order to add the conditions of an
extension if granted, i.e., applying for a building permit, submitting the final plan and plat, etc.
Discussion ensued.
City Manager Nicklas noted the final plan and plat would have to be vetted by the Planning and
Zoning Commission. He recommended having the final plan and plat done within 60 days and a
building permit issued within 90 days, which would be June 1, 2023.
Discussion ensued regarding the timeline.
Alderman Larson commented she’d like one of the conditions in the resolution to be that the video
gaming establishment must be operational and open for business within a certain timeframe.
Alderman Smith asked Mr. Richardson if they had a contractor lined up for the project. Mr.
Richardson replied they don’t, adding they’ve been having issues just getting quotes.
Mayor Barnes informed Mr. Richardson that, if approved, this would be the last extension and
recommended an abundance of communication with the City.
Brief discussion ensued.
City Manager Nicklas reiterated Council’s conditions of the extension.
Alderman Morris offered an alternative perspective to this issue, stating Council may be adding
unneeded pressure to the project, especially since the lot has been vacant for so long. She added
she’s in support of allowing an extension for as long as it takes to finish the project.
Mayor Barnes commented the extensions have gone on long enough and he just wants to see
the project done.
Alderman McAdams noted his agreement with Alderman Morris’ statement and asked Mr.
Richardson to please cooperate with City staff so this project can be seen through to a positive
conclusion.
Discussion ensued.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to table/postpone this item; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2023
Page 5 of 8
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
2. Resolution 2023-023 Amending Resolution 2022-023 to Extend the Deadline for the
Issuance of a Bar Liquor License with Supplemental Licensure for Video Gaming for
Blue Ridge LLC – 1221, Located at 1221 W. Lincoln Highway.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Morris moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Verbic. (This
motion was not voted on; see below for final motion and vote.)
City Manager Nicklas recommended tabling this item, noting it and the item before it will be
brought back for Council vetting at their next meeting.
MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to table the resolution; seconded by Alderman Larson.
There were no questions or comments from Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
3. Resolution 2023-024 Authorizing the Purchase of a Phoenix G2 Station Alert System
from US Digital Designs for the DeKalb Fire Department in an Amount Not to Exceed
$124,557.80 Using Ground Emergency Medical Transport (GEMT) Funding (Fund 130).
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet. A station alert system is the software and hardware responsible for Police
dispatches to the Fire Department’s internal communication system once a 9-1-1 call is
received. The current station alert system is over 30 years old, and the Department has
wrestled with a number of expensive maintenance issues in the past several years. Four
vendors were solicited for quotes – US Digital Designs, Purvis Systems, Motorola, and Z-Tron –
with US Digital Designs meeting the Department’s specifications. The upgrade will improve
system reliability including dispatch information, response times, station security, and notification.
The FY2023 GEMT budget includes funding for a new alerting system involving the installation of
components at all three City fire stations.
There were no questions or comments from Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
4. Resolution 2023-025 Authorizing the Purchase of a Station Alert System with
Component Installation for the DeKalb Fire Department in an Amount Not to Exceed
$20,180 Using Ground Emergency Medical Transport (GEMT) Funding (Fund 130).
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2023
Page 6 of 8
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet. The installation of a new station alert system requires certified installers for
warranty purposes. The Fire Department solicited bids from the following certified installers:
Electrical Solutions Services, DigiCom Installations, and Advancing Wiring Solutions. Electrical
Solutions Services was chosen to install the components using FY2023 GEMT funding.
There were no questions or comments from Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
5. Resolution 2023-026 Authorizing the Purchase of Two Ford F-150 Pickup Trucks for the
Public Works Department through Morrow Brothers Ford in an Amount Not to Exceed
$80,468.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet. The Public Works Department is requesting authorization to purchase two Ford
F-150 pickup trucks through Morrow Brothers Ford in an amount not to exceed $80,468. The
vehicles will replace a 2003 Dodge Ram pickup truck and a 1997 GMC Sierra pickup truck, which
will likely be sold at auction.
Alderman Larson commented on the age of the vehicles being replaced and offered her thanks
to the Public Works Department for taking such good care of them over the years.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
L. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING
There were none.
M. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING
1. Ordinance 2023-012 Approving a Special Use Permit to Allow the Resubdivision of an
“RC-1” Residential Conservation District Zoned Lot into Two Single-Family Attached
Lots in Accordance with Chapter 23, “Unified Development Ordinance,” Article 5.03.06,
and Approval of the Final Plat of the Burnoski Subdivision Located at 1104-1106 Lewis
Street.
Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by
Alderman McAdams.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet. The applicant, Samuel Burnoski, is requesting approval of a special use permit,
variance, and an accompanying final plat to re-subdivide a two-family (duplex) lot at 1104-1106
Lewis Street into two single-family-attached (zero-lot-line) lots. The property would be re-
subdivided along the common wall of the existing two-family (duplex) residential structure, which
was built in the mid 1970’s. The re-subdivision would create two lots, with one residential unit on
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2023
Page 7 of 8
each of the new lots. Lot 1 would be 3,397 square feet and Lot 2 would be 5,096 square feet. The
resulting re-subdivision would allow each of the units and the lots on which they are located to be
owned or sold in fee simple.
Alderman Smith offered his support of this item.
Alderman Larson asked about the water and sewer lines. Mr. Burnoski replied there are plans in
place to add another sanitary line and water service.
Brief discussion ensued.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to waive second reading of the ordinance and approve;
seconded by Alderman Morris.
Alderman Morris asked about previous discussions for streamlining any future requests of this
nature. City Manager Nicklas replied that the process has been simplified in that the Planning and
Zoning Commission has reviewed the project before being brought before Council. He further
noted this is a very common process.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
2. Ordinance 2023-013 Authorizing the Northern Illinois University Annual Contribution
for Integrated Transit Services.
Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by
Alderman McAdams.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet. According to the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City of
DeKalb and Northern Illinois University (NIU) for integrated transit services, NIU agreed to
contribute a minimum of 40% of the total costs associated with fixed route transit expenses on an
annual basis. For FY2023, January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023, the anticipated NIU
contribution amount is $2,066,768.
There were no questions or comments from Council.
MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to waive second reading of the ordinance and approve;
seconded by Alderman Morris.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
N. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
Alderman Verbic thanked Public Works for the great job done on posting signs for the bridge
closures on N. First Street and Lucinda Avenue.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2023
Page 8 of 8
Alderman Larson also thanked Public Works for keeping the roads clear during the recent ice
storm. She also commented on a recent event she attended and noted how busy the downtown
area was.
Mayor Barnes reported on recent meetings and events he’s attended, which included being a
guest speaker on the WLBK radio program, a meeting with Alderman Morris and a potential
developer, and a mural workshop meeting. He also reported on meetings he’s attended with City
Manager Nicklas, which included meeting with Metra, meeting with Samantha White of the
governor’s office to discuss what’s happening in DeKalb, the monthly meeting with Northern
Illinois University leadership, a meeting with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic
Opportunity, and a meeting with Alderman Perkins to discuss the video gaming
establishment/video gaming terminal topic.
2. City Manager Report.
City Manager Nicklas had no report.
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION
There was none.
P. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to adjourn the meeting; seconded by Alderman Larson.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 voice vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams,
Verbic, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Faivre. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and
adjourned the meeting at 7:06 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_____________________________
Ruth A. Scott, Recording Secretary
Minutes approved by the City Council on March 13, 2023.
Click here to view the agenda packet for the February 27, 2023, Regular City Council meeting.
Click here to view the video recording of the February 27, 2023, Regular City Council meeting.
Agenda
DEKALB CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 27, 2023
6:00 P.M.
DeKalb Public Library
Yusunas Meeting Room
309 Oak Street
DeKalb, Illinois 60115
Pursuant to Chapter 2 “City Council”, Section 2.04 “Council Meetings”, persons wishing to address the City
Council during this meeting are required to register with the Recording Secretary by filling out and
submitting a Speaker Request form, copies of which are located on the table just outside the meeting room,
along with copies of the agenda. Comments will be limited to three (3) minutes. Further information for
addressing the City Council can be found on the Speaker Request form.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
D. PRESENTATIONS
1. DeKalb Public Library Annual Report.
E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
F. APPOINTMENTS
1. Appointment of Shaun Langley to the Citizens’ Environmental Commission for the
Completion of a Two-Year Term through December 31, 2024.
2. Appointment of James Carlin of the DeKalb County Health Department as an Ex-
Officio Member of the Citizens’ Environmental Commission.
3. Reappointment of Nick Newman to the Citizens’ Environmental Commission for the
Completion of a Two-Year Term through December 31, 2024.
G. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of February 23, 2023.
H. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Accounts Payable and Payroll through February 27, 2023, in the Amount of
$2,785,346.06.
2. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Report for January 2023.
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
COVID-19 Notice: The corporate authorities of the City of DeKalb intend to conduct this meeting in-person with a physically present quorum that is open
to the public and in compliance with all applicable public health requirements. Pursuant to current public health guidelines, persons attending this meeting
are not required to wear protective face masks/coverings.
Regular Meeting Agenda
February 27, 2023
Page 2 of 6
3. FY2022 Human Services Funding Fourth Quarter Report.
I. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
J. CONSIDERATIONS
None.
K. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2023-022 Amending Resolution 2022-023 to Extend the Deadline for the
Issuance of a Package Liquor License with Supplemental Drive-Through Licensure
for Blue Ridge LLC – 1221, Located at 1221 W. Lincoln Highway.
City Manager’s Summary: Petitioners Jeff Dobie and Jeff Richardson are requesting a further
extension for the issuance of a bar liquor license supplemental to a video gaming
establishment, a liquor license for a drive-through package liquor store, and a license for a
video gaming establishment. This grouping of licenses and allowances was first authorized
by the Council on a conditional basis on September 10, 2018 (Resolution 2018-124). Since
then, the petitioners have received three Council extensions:
On October 12, 2020, during the height of the COVID pandemic and the closure of liquor
establishments across the state, the Council issued a one-year extension (Resolution 2020-
112).
On August 23, 2021, the petitioners requested a further one-year extension to begin the
development of their property at 1221 W. Lincoln Highway but did secure a rezoning of that
property from the “GC” General Commercial District and “MFR2” Multi-Family Residential
District to the “PD-C” Planned Development Commercial District (Ordinance 2021-032)
along with a preliminary plan. The ordinance required the submittal of a final development
plan and final plat prior to any building permit being issued. The ordinance also provided
that the City Manager could extend the Council’s one-year time frame by six months once it
expired. This administrative extension was granted by the City Manager.
On February 28, 2022, as the City Manager’s six-month extension was about to expire, the
petitioners (d/b/a Blue Ridge LLC) approached the Council for a “final” one-year extension.
The Council granted a one-year extension for the issuance of a bar license and video
gaming license (Resolution 2022-023 and Resolution 2022-024). At that time, Mayor Barnes
suggested, and the Council consensus concurred, that this would be the last extension
unless substantial progress on the project had occurred. A final development plan, final plat,
and building permit application were to be submitted. The petitioners pledged to start the
project in the Spring of 2022 with completion in the Fall of 2022. At this time, no detailed
building or engineering plans have been submitted for permit review.
Representing Blue Ridge LLC, Jeff Dobie has submitted a request to extend the grace period
for an additional year to get a liquor and video gaming license for a proposed 6,090 square
foot building (across from Fatty’s Pub & Grill) to contain a package liquor store (with drive-
through), a video gaming establishment, and related storage. City Council direction is
requested. (click here for additional information)
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
COVID-19 Notice: The corporate authorities of the City of DeKalb intend to conduct this meeting in-person with a physically present quorum that is open
to the public and in compliance with all applicable public health requirements. Pursuant to current public health guidelines, persons attending this meeting
are not required to wear protective face masks/coverings.
Regular Meeting Agenda
February 27, 2023
Page 3 of 6
2. Resolution 2023-023 Amending Resolution 2022-023 to Extend the Deadline for the
Issuance of a Bar Liquor License with Supplemental Licensure for Video Gaming
for Blue Ridge LLC – 1221, Located at 1221 W. Lincoln Highway.
City Manager’s Summary: If the Council approves Resolution 2023-022, above, then it is
recommended that the Council approve the attached resolution for video gaming for Blue
Ridge LLC. If the Council does not approve Resolution 2023-022, then Council disapproval is
recommended. City Council direction is requested. (click here for additional information)
3. Resolution 2023-024 Authorizing the Purchase of a Phoenix G2 Station Alert System
from US Digital Designs for the DeKalb Fire Department in an Amount Not to Exceed
$124,557.80 Using Ground Emergency Medical Transport (GEMT) Funding (Fund
130).
City Manager’s Summary: As Fire Chief Mike Thomas writes in the attached memorandum,
the current Fire Department station alert system is over 30 years old, and the Department
has wrestled with a number of expensive maintenance issues with the current system in
the past several years. A station alert system is the software and hardware that is
responsible for Police dispatches to the Fire Department’s internal communication system
once a 9-1-1 call is received. The hardware portion of the system consists of the
components installed in each station. Such components include flush-mounted speakers
with red/white LED rings, strobe lights, weatherproof speakers, doorbells, G-2 messenger
signs, HDTV monitors, turn-out timers, etc.
In anticipation of the purchase of a replacement system up-to-date visual and audio signaling,
the Fire Department evaluated four vendors. The US Digital Designs Phoenix G2 proposal
met the Department’s specifications. The upgrade will improve system reliability including
dispatch information, response times, station security, and notification. The FY2023 GEMT
budget includes funding for a new alerting system involving the installation of components at
all three City fire stations.
The proposed system includes lighting alerts and tone alerts that “ramp-up” as well as voice-
over-text technology, cell phone application alerts, and mapping. The Department is eager to
provide display screens, “ticker” displays, smart-speakers, smart-lighting, and
doorbell/cameras at each station.
The total cost for the lowest proposal is $177,732.38. The Emergency Telephone System
Board (ETSB) will cover the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) portion, which is $53,175, as
well as the CAD integration in the amount of $7,855. The City’s total cost for this system will
not exceed $124,557.80, with the exception of the component installation.
The bids that were received are compared below:
US Digital Designs - Phoenix G2 System Met Spec $177,732.38
Purvis Systems Did not meet Spec $272,778.25
Motorola Inc. - MACH Alert Bid Not Itemized $387,039.83
Z-Tron No Bid No Bid
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
COVID-19 Notice: The corporate authorities of the City of DeKalb intend to conduct this meeting in-person with a physically present quorum that is open
to the public and in compliance with all applicable public health requirements. Pursuant to current public health guidelines, persons attending this meeting
are not required to wear protective face masks/coverings.
Regular Meeting Agenda
February 27, 2023
Page 4 of 6
The 2023 GEMT Budget (130-00-00-86000) has sufficient dedicated funds for the City’s share
of this important equipment purchase.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
4. Resolution 2023-025 Authorizing the Purchase of a Station Alert System with
Component Installation for the DeKalb Fire Department in an Amount Not to Exceed
$20,180 Using Ground Emergency Medical Transport (GEMT) Funding (Fund 130).
City Manager’s Summary: The installation of the new station alert system, if authorized by
Council action on the previous resolution, requires certified installers for warranty purposes.
The Fire Department solicited bids from the certified installers listed below:
Electrical Solutions Services LLC $20,180
DigiCom Installations, Inc. $46,751
Advanced Wiring Solutions $63,800
The Fire Department recommends the award of the installation contract to Electrical
Solutions Services LLC to install the components for the station alert system using FY2023
GEMT (Fund 130) funds in an amount not to exceed $20,180.00. The total, not-to-exceed
price for the acquisition of the components and their installation is $144,737.80.
City Council approval is recommended. With the generous support represented by the
local ETSB grants, the GEMT account that funds the new station alert system will have
additional monies in reserve for other Department capital needs. (click here for additional
information)
5. Resolution 2023-026 Authorizing the Purchase of Two Ford F-150 Pickup Trucks for
the Public Works Department through Morrow Brothers Ford in an Amount Not to
Exceed $80,468.
City Manager’s Summary: The City’s FY2023 Water Fund budget allocated capital funds for
the two replacement pickups for the Utility Division of Public Works. The Utility Division is
requesting authorization to purchase two Ford F-150 pickup trucks through Morrow Brothers
Ford in an amount not to exceed $80,468. The vehicles will replace a 2003 Dodge Ram pickup
truck and a 1997 GMC Sierra pickup truck, which will likely be sold at auction.
Morrow Brothers Ford of Greenfield, Illinois is listed in the Illinois State Purchasing Contract
(Contract No. 21-416CMS-P-29479) and has provided a quote for the two vehicles (see
attached exhibits). The approved FY2023 budget includes $120,000 under GL 620-00-00-
87000 (Vehicles) for the purchase of the two vehicles.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
L. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING
None.
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
COVID-19 Notice: The corporate authorities of the City of DeKalb intend to conduct this meeting in-person with a physically present quorum that is open
to the public and in compliance with all applicable public health requirements. Pursuant to current public health guidelines, persons attending this meeting
are not required to wear protective face masks/coverings.
Regular Meeting Agenda
February 27, 2023
Page 5 of 6
M. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING
1. Ordinance 2023-012 Approving a Special Use Permit to Allow the Resubdivision of
an “RC-1” Residential Conservation District Zoned Lot into Two Single-Family
Attached Lots in Accordance with Chapter 23, “Unified Development Ordinance,”
Article 5.03.06, and Approval of the Final Plat of the Burnoski Subdivision Located
at 1104-1106 Lewis Street.
City Manager’s Summary: As Planning Director Dan Olson writes in his background
memorandum, the applicant, Samuel Burnoski, is requesting approval of a special use permit,
variance, and an accompanying final plat to re-subdivide a two-family (duplex) lot at 1104-
1106 Lewis Street into two single-family-attached (zero-lot-line) lots. The property is zoned
“RC-1” Residential Conservation District and is 8,493 square feet in area (.19 acres). The
applicant proposes to resubdivide the property along the common wall of the existing two-
family (duplex) residential structure built in the mid 1970’s. The re-subdivision would create
two lots, with one residential unit on each of the new lots. Lot 1 would be 3,397 square feet
and Lot 2 would be 5,096 square feet. The resulting re-subdivision would allow each of the
units and the lots on which they are located to be owned or sold in fee simple.
In the “RC-1” District, the Universal Development Ordinance (UDO), Article 5.14.07.7, has
several criteria for the proposed type of re-subdivision. Each new lot must be at least 3,500
square feet and a minimum lot width of 25 feet is required. The interior lot line setback is
removed to accommodate the new lot line going down the common wall. A declaration of
cross easements and common wall agreement is also required which covers the maintenance,
responsibilities, and liability of the common wall between the two units. The applicant has
submitted a Shared Wall Agreement, which has been reviewed and approved by our City
Attorney. The agreement will be recorded with the final plat.
The proposed Lot 2 meets the 25-foot minimum lot width and the 3,500 square-foot minimum
lot size requirement. Lot 1 is 3,397 square feet, which is slightly under the 3,500 square foot
minimum, therefore a variance was requested. The two-unit dwelling was not placed in the
middle of the lot when it was constructed in the mid-1970’s and is located more on the western
portion of the property. The possibility exists to make two lots of over 3,500 square feet, but
the cleanest way to divide the lot is with one straight dividing line down the middle of the
building (through the shared center wall).
The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing regarding the special use petition
at their meeting on February 21, 2023. By a vote of 5-0, the Commission recommended City
Council approval of a special use permit to allow the re-subdivision of a “RC-1” Residential
Conservation Zoned Lot into Two Single-Family Attached Lots in accordance with Article
5.03.06 of the UDO for the property located at 1104-1106 Lewis Street. The Commission also
recommended approval of the Final Plat of the new Burnoski Subdivision dated 1-25-23 and
labeled as Exhibit A in the staff report subject to all staff comments being addressed prior to
the recording the Plat.
On February 21, the Planning and Zoning Commission also approved a variance to Article
5.14.07.7.g.1 of the UDO regarding the minimum lot size for Lot 1 as shown on the Final Plat
of the Burnoski Subdivision labeled as Exhibit A in the staff report.
City Council approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation is
requested. (click here for additional information)
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
COVID-19 Notice: The corporate authorities of the City of DeKalb intend to conduct this meeting in-person with a physically present quorum that is open
to the public and in compliance with all applicable public health requirements. Pursuant to current public health guidelines, persons attending this meeting
are not required to wear protective face masks/coverings.
Regular Meeting Agenda
February 27, 2023
Page 6 of 6
2. Ordinance 2023-013 Authorizing the Northern Illinois University Annual
Contribution for Integrated Transit Services.
City Manager’s Summary: According to the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between
the City of DeKalb and Northern Illinois University (NIU) for integrated transit services, NIU
agreed to contribute a minimum of 40% of the total costs associated with fixed route transit
expenses on an annual basis. For FY2023, January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023,
the anticipated NIU contribution amount is $2,066,768.
The anticipated total cost of consolidated transit services in FY2023 is $5,360,882 and
includes all fixed route and paratransit services that are provided by Transdev. Based upon
this total, the anticipated NIU contribution for FY2023 is $2,066,768.00
Public Transit Service Type Total Cost NIU Cost
Contracted Fixed Route w/Fuel $4,507,566.00 $1,803,026.40
Contracted Paratransit Service w/Fuel $94,369.00 $34,916.63
Contracted Elburn Bus Service w/Fuel $110,265.00 $44,106.08
Contracted Park 88 Bus Service w/Fuel $373,771.00 $74,754.20
Contracted Late Night Ride Service w/Fuel $274,911.00 $109,964.40
Total Cost of Services $5,360,882.00 $2,066,768
Route 19, which operates to south DeKalb, Park 88, and Gurler Road, is meant to provide
residents and students with access to employment and other available resources in an area
of DeKalb that has limited public transit services. The Route 19 ridership consists primarily
of residents of DeKalb; for this reason, NIU has agreed to provide a 20% local match.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
N. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
2. City Manager Report.
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION
None.
P. ADJOURNMENT
REGULAR AGENDA PACKET
FEBRUARY 27, 2023
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
COVID-19 Notice: The corporate authorities of the City of DeKalb intend to conduct this meeting in-person with a physically present quorum that is open
to the public and in compliance with all applicable public health requirements. Pursuant to current public health guidelines, persons attending this meeting
are not required to wear protective face masks/coverings.