City Council

MINUTES WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL City Council Chambers May 5, 2020 A regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 5, 2020, by Mayor Sager in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. Mayor Sager noted this meeting of the Woodstock City Council is being held under the Mayor’s Emergency Declaration with Council members attending remotely and those attending at City Hall observing social distancing. Noting there are no members of the public attending the meeting in person, Mayor Sager stated it is being live-streamed, as is the City’s policy. He explained the procedures to be used by the City Council, City Staff, and the Public to join today’s meeting, including how to make comments and ask questions, and inviting all to participate. Mayor Sager explained the Consent Calendar. Mayor Sager thanked those present and thanked Director McElmeel & City Manager Stelford for their help in facilitating/arranging this meeting. A roll call was taken. COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Brian Sager. COUNCIL MEMBERS ATTENDING REMOTELY: Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, Wendy Piersall, Jim Prindiville, Gordon Tebo, and Michael Turner. COUNCIL ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford and Recreation Department Director Dave Zinnen. STAFF ATTENDING REMOTELY: Assistant City Manager/Finance Director Paul Christensen, IT Director Dan McElmeel, Public Works Director Jeff Van Landuyt, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Chief John Lieb, Human Resources Director Debbie Schober, Opera House Managing Director Daniel Campbell, City Planner Darrell Moore, Recreation Department Coordinator Becky Vidales and Executive Assistant/Chief Deputy City Clerk Jane Howie. OTHERS ATTENDING REMOTELY: City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, applicants Janice and Craig Wilcox, and Architect Gary Anderson. Mayor Sager noted the presence of a quorum under the revised rules of the Governor during this COVID-19 emergency. Chief Deputy City Clerk Howie confirmed the agenda before the Council is a true and correct copy of the published agenda. Mayor Sager requested a moment of silence for Aaron Shepley, Mayor of the City of Crystal Lake, who unexpectedly passed away on Monday morning, May 4th, and asked that those in .  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 attendance offer their thoughts and prayers for Mayor Shepley’s wife Regan, and their two daughters. He noted that Aaron Shepley had been on Crystal Lake’s City Council beginning in 1997 and had been the Mayor of Crystal Lake for twenty one years. After the moment of silence, Mayor Sager took a moment to wish a happy birthday to City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg. Mayor Sager mentioned that Attorney Schlossberg has been a great colleague and friend over the years and she helps to keep the Council and Staff on the straight and narrow. There was a round of applause for Ms. Schlossberg. M. Turner added that Ms. Schlossberg shares a birthday with Councilwoman Lohmeyer. Mayor congratulated L. Lohmeyer and extended birthday wishes. There was a round of applause for Councilwoman Lohmeyer. Mayor Sager took a moment to thank City Staff for their extra efforts due to the impact of the coronavirus. The Mayor extended special thanks to Economic Development Coordinator Krista Coltrin, who has done a remarkable job keeping local businesses informed by emailing a daily update announcement. And, special thanks to Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, who has been working closely with the loan applications, reviewing and establishing the process, and upholding the program. Also, special thanks to Communications Manager/ Grant Writer Terry Willcockson in keeping us all informed, creating our liveable community for the month of May, for creating the Jazz Hands for our Heroes program, which will assist in highlighting those employees who are working so hard during this time. And, a very special thank-you to City Manager Stelford as he keeps the City moving forward smoothly; he’s been extremely busy during this unprecedented time. III. FLOOR DISCUSSION A. Proclamation 1. National Economic Development 2020, Week, May 4th – 9th On behalf of the City, Mayor Sager expressed gratitude for the contributions made by the Economic Development Department. Without objection, the City Council approved and adopted A Proclamation Honoring the Economic Development Department. Mayor Sager read the proclamation and thanked the Economic Development Department; Director Garrett Anderson, Krista Coltrin, and George Hahne. Mr. Anderson, who was attending remotely, thanked Mayor Sager and the City Council, and City Staff for providing the tools needed to be successful, including the emergency loan program, which has been a team effort with the Chamber of Commerce Real Woodstock, Workforce Network and many others. 2. National Police Week 2020, May 10th – 16th On behalf of the City, Mayor Sager expressed gratitude for the contributions made by the Woodstock Police Department. Without objection, the City Council approved and adopted A Proclamation Honoring the Woodstock Police Department. Mayor Sager read the proclamation and Chief John Lieb, who was attending remotely, thanked Mayor Sager and City Council, noting that this is a 2  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 solemn event to honor officers who have passed in the line of duty. Chief Lieb said Woodstock’s Police Department has a strong and dedicated force. Mayor Sager thanked the department, and said that when any incident or question occurs, officers have provided a resolution quickly, and with exceptional ability to address the needs that arise, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chief Lieb responded they love what they do and the City should be proud of the current officers! He also thanked the Council for this annual and special recognition. 3. Public Works Week, May 17th – 23rd On behalf of the City, Mayor Sager expressed gratitude for the contributions made by the Public Works Department. Without objection, the City Council approved and adopted A Proclamation Honoring the Public Works Department. Mayor Sager read the proclamation and Director Jeff Van Landuyt, who was attending remotely, thanked Terry Willcockson for her help in writing the proclamation, and thanked Mayor Sager and the City Council for their support over the years. Mayor Sager said it’s very obvious that the City has a wonderful staff and we extend our gratitude, our respect and accommodation. B. Public Comments There were no comments forthcoming from the Public. C. Council Comments There were no comments forthcoming from the City Council. IV. CONSENT AGENDA Motion by M. Turner, second by G. Tebo to approve the Consent Agenda. A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. In response to a question from Mayor Sager, the following items were removed from the Consent Agenda by the City Council or the Public. Item D-8 was removed by Mayor Sager. Items D-4 and D-5 were removed by M. Turner. In response to a question from Mayor Sager, there were no questions or comments raised by members of the City Council or the Public on items on the Consent Agenda. Mayor Sager affirmed the Consent Agenda to include items A through D-7, with the exception of items D-4 and D-5, as follows: 3  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 A. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING April 21, 2020 City Council Meeting B. WARRANTS #3903 #3904 C. MINUTES AND REPORTS Police Department March 2020 Public Works Department Monthly Report March 2020 D. MANAGER’S REPORT NO. 156: 1. Affirmation of the Mayor’s Emergency Declaration – (COVID-19 Emergency) (156a) Affirmation by the Council of a Continuation of the Mayor’s Emergency Declaration through May 30, 2020. 2. Waiver of the Moratorium for Accepting an Application for Liquor and Video Gaming Licenses for a New Owner, Best Western Hotel, 990 Lake Avenue (156b) Authorization to waive the moratorium on the acceptance of applications for a Class E-5V (Hotel small bar and in-room minibar) Liquor License with video gaming for the Best Western Hotel, 990 Lake Avenue, Woodstock, Illinois with the understanding this is not a guarantee of license approval and that it is a one-time waiver for this location only. 3. Resolution – Revolving Loan Agreement, My Little Bow Peeps (156c) Approval of a Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a Revolving Loan Agreement with My Little Bow Peeps, subject to final review and approval by the City Attorney. DOC. 1 6. Purchase – FY20/21 Road Salt (156f) Approval to award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder, Morton Salt, Inc., Chicago, IL for the purchase of ice control salt to be supplied throughout the winter of FY20/21 at a unit price of $69.35/ton. 7. Ordinance – Surplus Equipment Declaration (156g) Approval of an Ordinance designating certain vehicles and equipment as surplus property, and authorizing and directing the City Manager to dispose of said property as allowed by law, including but not limited to sale to the highest bidder on www.GovDeals.com, recycling, donation, and/or disposal. DOC. 2 A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. Item D-4: Annual Purchase of Squad Cars – Approval to purchase three (3) 2021 Ford Utility Police Interceptor vehicles at $32,828 each for a total of $98,484 through the NWMC Suburban Purchasing Cooperative from Currie Motors, Frankfort, IL, and the expenditure of $21,000 for all necessary associated up-fit costs. M. Turner stated his concern about spending funds to purchase three squad cars, although he doesn’t question the need, as we want the City’s officers to have what they need to safely and 4  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 successfully do their jobs. He wanted to know if the City can defer any of these vehicles, as long as it would not affect public safety. In response, Chief Lieb said the City’s mechanics are doing a fine job keeping up with the PD’s fleet. Chief Lieb added that the fleet is transitioning to the SUV model. While the department could defer for a short time, it shouldn’t be for too long as the squad cars are getting very old, and the City has recognized the delays in Fort Motor Company. In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Chief Lieb said their department could purchase one or two vehicles now, if that is what is approved, as they would find a way to make it work. Mayor Sager said he appreciates the question; all expenditures should be re-examined. Mayor Sager’s concern is that the City may be asking the same questions over the next couple of years. He knows that staff has been very conservative, but he believes Council should make this decision now. J. Prindiville said these are essential City services and he believes the Police Department needs the best tools to be safe and successful. He is supportive in moving forward with the purchase of three vehicles. G. Tebo said he understands this as the vehicles from 2019 did not get delivered and are currently delayed. He prefers that the City purchase these vehicles in keeping with their standards. Councilwoman Piersall agreed with G. Tebo’s comments. Director Van Landuyt added that when the vehicles get older, they require additional maintenance. He said many of the police vehicles are quite worn out and they’re unable to keep them for another use. Motion by M. Turner, to approve the purchase of three (3) 2021 Ford Utility Police Interceptor vehicles at $32,828 each for a total of $98,484 through the NWMC Suburban Purchasing Cooperative from Currie Motors, Frankfort, IL, and expend $21,000 for all necessary associated up-fit costs, second by D. Flynn. A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. Item D-5: Waiver of Competitive Bids and Award of Contract – Mosquito Abatement. Approval to waive the requirement for competitive bids and award a contract for 2020 mosquito control services to Clarke for the quoted price of $5,010 for each application of larvae control products and $9,380 for each citywide adult mosquito spraying. Councilman Turner asked if he could split the question into two parts; the larva control products being one and the citywide adult mosquito spraying as the second part. He added that it is believed that what is done for mosquitoes is necessary; however, the adult mosquito spraying has minimal and short-term impacts, which does not warrant the cost. While he is supportive of the larvicide applications, he is not supportive of adult mosquito spraying as he believes it has very limited effectiveness. Mayor Sager agreed that this item could be split into two separate questions; he would like to hear from other Council members. Councilwoman Piersall said many summer events will not be occurring because of the COVID- 19 pandemic; therefore, she agrees that it wouldn’t be prudent to spend the additional money on 5  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 citywide mosquito spraying. Mayor Sager clarified that if an event, such as the 4th of July Fireworks, is held, then the City usually sprays, it’s not a routine/scheduled type of spraying. Councilman Tebo asked how many times the larvicide treatment occurs vs. how many times is the City sprayed for mosquitos. J. Van Landuyt explained the larvicide application is done monthly during the summer; it’s a puck-like item that is dropped into the City’s storm sewers. He continued on to say that the City keeps track of calls from residents concerning the mosquitoes, and Public Works keeps in contact with Clarke to review the findings. Although the spraying is a temporary measure, it can provide some relief. Mr. Van Landuyt further explained how the monthly larvicide applications are administered by Clarke. Councilman Tebo said he is concerned about the additional $10,000 for citywide spraying. In response to G. Tebo’s questions Mr. Van Landuyt said Clarke works with several neighboring communities and there’s a better impact if Woodstock sprays when other nearby communities spray, as well. J. Prindiville said he believes that mosquito abatement is very important to residents. However, he believes the spraying is also an environmental issue; he agrees with keeping the larvicide treatments as it’s a good way to control mosquitoes. He said that Clarke has a very good program with their biodegradable products, this keeps our residents assured that this nuisance is being taking care of. He’s supportive of keeping the program similar to previous years. Councilman Turner said he supports the larvicide program; he agrees with Mr. Van Landuyt’s information. However, he does not support the mosquito spraying. Councilman Flynn said he is in full support of the larvicide; however, he’s concerned that the City could pay a higher cost for spraying if we don’t keep the program together. In response to Mr. Flynn’s question, J. Van Landuyt said if the spraying portion is not part of our program, there may be a delay when the City requests spraying, as Clarke will accommodate their contracted customers first. There was a bit of discussion on the City’s mosquito program over the past few years. J. Van Landuyt added that Public Works gets a lot of calls when there’s word of West Nile Virus, so there could be some concern this summer due to the coronavirus. W. Piersall said if this spring and/or summer is rainy, she is concerned with the wait we may have to experience due to not being part of the program. M. Turner understands the concerns of the West Nile Virus, he just doesn’t believe in the effectiveness of the spraying for adult mosquitoes. Motion by M. Turner, for approval to waive the requirement for competitive bids and award a contract for 2020 mosquito control services to Clarke for the quoted price of $5,010 for each application of larvae control products, second by D. Flynn. A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. Motion by W. Piersall, Approval to waive the requirement for competitive bids and award a contract for 2020 mosquito control services to Clarke for the quoted price of $9,380 for each citywide adult mosquito spraying; second by J. Prindiville. Councilman Tebo wanted to confirm that together City Manager Stelford & Director Van Landuyt can make decisions as to when 6  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 mosquito spraying is necessary. Mayor Sager confirmed that the City Manager can approve mosquito spraying. A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: G. Tebo and M. Turner. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. Item D-8: Consideration of Recommendations for Recreation Department/Woodstock Water Works/City Band/Park Amenities – COVID-19. Approval of certain recommendations in response to COVID-19. Mayor Sager thanked staff for researching these items, and said we do have orders by the Governor, which provide direction. He continued on to say that staff has been working very hard to determine best decisions going forward. In light of Governor Pritzker’s talks today, we have a bit more direction as to how the plan plays out over time. Mayor Sager explained the parameters that were shared by the Governor in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Mayor Sager explained the five phases; with the City of Woodstock currently in Phase 2, along with the health regions, stating that McHenry County is currently in the same region with DuPage, Lake, and Cook Counties; the northeastern district. Mayor Sager added that McHenry County municipalities are very concerned by being grouped in the same region as Chicago, as Chicago’s numbers, due to population, etc. could have a prolonged movement, which could cause issues for our communities. Mayor Sager asked Council members for their questions with regard to the aquatic center, City band concerts, and the Rec department. Councilman Turner said he is very concerned that Woodstock is in this region as McHenry County has no similarities to Cook, Lake & DuPage Counties. He would like this to be appealed, as there is no reason to define our County within this region. Mayor Sager believes that we should be in the northwestern region; however, he believes it will be highly unlikely to be re-assigned. He’s confident that other nearby communities are also supportive. Mayor Sager said he can’t emphasize enough how hard our colleagues are working. Quantifiable answers are pretty dire, looking at the end of May before any region will be moved out of Phase 2. Mayor Sager continued on to say that he doesn’t believe there is a logical way, even if our region is moved into Phase 3 in June, for opening the pool or the Rec Center, until we are in Phase 5, which, at the earliest could be in September. Mr. Van Landuyt said it takes three weeks to prepare the aquatic center for opening. This includes filling the pools, working with the necessary chemicals, and hiring staff. It is believed that it is not practical to open the aquatic center this season. D. Zinnen said he agrees with Mayor Sager. Mayor Sager said after his discussion with staff today, public pools cannot be used until we’re in Phase 5. J. Prindiville said he has a concern that if the City opens the aquatic center, the community may not be comfortable to even use it this year. He added that perhaps while the aquatic center remains closed, some maintenance work could be completed to get the pool into better shape for the future. Mayor Sager agreed, saying these are good suggestions. 7  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 Councilwoman Piersall agrees that opening the pool is unreasonable. She asked how this will affect revenue for the Recreation Department. D. Zinnen said after major improvement costs the department is in the red. Mayor Sager said the shorter the season is, the less money the City makes. Additional dialogue continued. P. Christensen said if the pool opened this year in July it would be at a loss in revenue for the department. In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Zinnen stated he doesn’t believe many people would purchase season passes to the aquatic center due to the virus and the uncertainty. M. Turner said because of the orders from Springfield, he doesn’t believe the City should spend the money to open the pool this summer. He said if anything changes for the good, and our region moved Phases ahead quickly, he would definitely support opening the pool. Mayor Sager said he was definitely hoping that the pool could be opened by July 4, but he realizes that is not going to happen. Mayor Sager said, with regard to opening tennis courts, a resident came up with signage that includes guidelines for users. The tennis players wish to maintain responsibility on their own; Mayor Sager is supportive of this. He will be looking for Staff and Council’s feedback on this topic. With regard to the Recreation Center, which falls under the same restrictions as the aquatic center, the City is ordering carpet; bid opening is scheduled for May 15th. Mayor Sager recommended that Council authorize staff to make a determination on successful bid and get the carpet installed while the Rec Center is closed. The Mayor believes the bid will come in under $25,000, so he doesn’t believe this item will have to come back to Council for approval. In response to a question from W. Piersall, Mayor Sager said the City won’t open the Rec Center against the Governor’s orders. Attorney Schlossberg agreed that this is appropriate. With regard to Rec Center programming, Mayor Sager started he believes programs can’t open until September. There was some discussion about the Playground Program as well as baseball tournaments. D. Zinnen said he is still waiting to hear from some of the tournament organizers, hoping that they make the decisions themselves. Mayor Sager knows that these are very difficult decisions to make. He said Rec Center staff has done a great job with getting classes online and information out to their participants. M. Turner asked if the City has to make the decisions now to cancel July activities/events, or can we wait a bit longer. D. Zinnen said staff needs a few weeks’ notice to get programs up and running again. Mayor Sager said he would love to offer these opportunities to our community; however, these events can’t occur until we are in Phase 4, which allows gatherings of no more than 50 people. He doesn’t believe our region will be in Phase 4 before the end of summer. M. Turner said Phase 5 is quite a high bar to reach, which may not happen until 2021. He understands the rules and that we have to abide by these policies; however, he is concerned about cancelling prematurely. Mayor Sager assured Council and staff that if something changes for the good, he’s confident that staff will get programming set immediately. In response to questions from Councilman Prindiville about the Playground Program, D. Zinnen said the department has looked at all contingencies; however, the City doesn’t believe this Program will be feasible in Phase 2. J. Prindiville said if it’s at all possible to hold this program, he would like the City to do so. He knows there would be a cost to it, but he believes it would be a good way to provide job opportunities and would warrant our consideration. 8  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 Regarding the Opera House, Mayor Sager stated this is a much larger gathering space, and will probably not be allowable until at least September. Daniel Campbell said they’ve been keeping track of the Governor’s mandates very closely, it’s very disheartening under the current plan. Mr. Campbell continued on to say that staff plans to take this on a month-by-month basis, as we don’t want to over extend. Councilman Tebo asked Director Campbell if, once we’re moved to Phase 4, which is gatherings of 50 people or fewer, if the Opera House would be able to hold events. D. Campbell said he believes this will be very difficult; programs will have to be selected very carefully. Mayor Sager said there is significant hesitation to cancel the City Band Concerts, in their 136th consecutive season this summer. D. Campbell said their original intent was to delay the opening until June 1st, but now they are hoping to open by July 1st, rather than cancel completely. However, the City is still concerned about the safety of our public as well as of the band. While Mr. Campbell believes it’s important to hold some band concerts, he would like the opportunity to complete at least a partial season, if at all possible. Mayor Sager said there is a strong desire to keep up the tradition. Mayor said if we were in Phase 4, perhaps we could hold a gathering outdoors similar to that of a drive-in movie, with band members socially distanced. Mayor Sager stated that he would like us to put the effort in, if not in July, maybe in August, even if just two performances, to preserve the band concerts. M. Turner completely supports this idea and said he agrees with finding a way to make this happen. He believes we should allow people to decide if they want to attend this type of event. He’d like staff to find a safe way to make this possible; wear masks, maintain the 6’ distance, gather in groups of 50 of less. Additional discussion ensued pertaining to ideas of holding summer band concerts. Mayor Sager said he’d like to outline decisions so that Council can approve all requests. • Agree that the City is not going to open the aquatic center in the summer season of 2020, • Agree that the City should open tennis courts as soon as possible, • Agree that the City is not going to open the recreation center for the summer season, • Agree that the City will proceed with extension of a bid for new carpeting and installation with authorization provided to staff to approve the bid, • Agree that Recreation Programming for the summer, including Playground Program & baseball tournaments and other large gatherings will not occur in the City before September 1, 2020 with the exception of current YouTube programming. Mr. Zinnen asked if we can add that the Rec Center cannot open until allowed by the Governor’s Restore Illinois Plan, and Rec Center outdoor programming/classes can be instituted once allowable, • Agree that the City should not plan to open the Opera House until September 1, 2020 and to encourage Director Campbell to keep tabs on that with earlier programming, if possible, • Agree that the City should plan for outdoor band concerts and give staff full support to close streets and proceed with scheduling summer concerts. 9  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 M. Turner reiterated that the City is cancelling little league and girls softball until September 1st. He is concerned about the September 1st date, because he doesn’t agree with the classification our county is in. Mayor Sager said if we have any opportunity to open sooner, we will take action to do so. M. Turner said he’d like to add that Council will re-visit this motion at the second meeting in June. Mayor Sager added that this could also be revisited in July. Mayor Sager believes that the City needs to provide some guidance during these uncertain times. Mayor Sager agreed that Council will take another look at the status of eligibility at the first Council meetings in June and July. Mayor Sager asked if Council members have any concerns about the intent of this motion. D. Campbell wants to be clear; he’d like to hold out hope that the Opera House may open prior to September 1st, depending on the situation at that time. It is his hope that things change for the better and that they could open the Opera House in August. Mayor Sager understands Mr. Campbell’s concern, and asked Council to consider keeping the Opera House closed on a month- to-month basis. There was no objection to Mr. Campbell’s request. Motion by M. Turner to approve Mayor Sager’s decisions, outlined above, second by D. Flynn. G. Tebo wanted it noted that City Council is making these decisions because of Governor Pritzker’s orders issued on 05/05/2020. W. Piersall said these are not just regulations put out by our state, but also by the White House. Mayor Sager asked City Manager Stelford to confirm that he and staff understand these guidelines. Mr. Stelford affirmed. DISCUSSION: 1. Gary W. Anderson – Old Courthouse Review: Mayor Sager expressed his appreciation for all the work that has been done to add updates to the plans. Council’s concerns pertaining to the number of restrooms included in the building was forwarded to Gary Anderson. D. Moore referenced the memo he produced, which included a few questions to address, along with the different viewpoints to deliver what we are all looking for. He mentioned the circle drop off that G. Tebo had asked about at the previous meeting, which the exterior renderings did not include, is still under consideration. It was noted that the first floor of the Old Courthouse had two toilets in the women’s restroom, which could be expanded to as many as four toilets. Discussion ensued pertaining to the various rooms and available space, reviewing spaces that could accommodate additional toilets on the first floor. Mr. Moore said, moving on to the second floor, which includes multiple meeting rooms and event space, the question had been asked if it’s possible to accommodate a bride’s room, perhaps in Meeting Room B. It was confirmed that the entire room could be used for that purpose. The west half of room could accommodate a sink. Some combination could work while dealing with a limited space. A main concern is how best to add more toilets to the second floor. It was also mentioned that it is Council’s wish that banquet attendees not cross paths with staff during events. There was a suggestion that the catering kitchen could move into the addition. Regarding the Sheriff’s House, Mr. Anderson said due to constraints of space, adding toilets 10  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 would take out useable space. G. Anderson expressed his reservations as to the additional toilets requested; owners/operators have reported back that the proposed plan is sufficient. There is a need to agree on some concepts, and general guidelines this evening. Even if just an affirmation that Council wants to proceed with this mission and to apply for historic tax credits. Gary Anderson said regarding the catering kitchen by the elevator, space that would be added is only 5 ½ feet, it would be very tight. They must also be careful to accommodate for head room within the stairway. J. Prindiville said he likes the idea of moving the kitchen near the elevator on the second floor. He believes this would create a more elegant flow. Mr. Prindiville said he believes Mayor Sager had mentioned previously that the area around the elevator would be open for casual gathering. He shared his ideas of where to locate restrooms in order to keep the plumbing in close vicinity. However, Mr. Anderson stated that plumbing should not be installed within Room 8, as there are major electrical switch gears and service panels beneath that space as well as other significant equipment; putting bathrooms there is almost impossible. Council agreed that a bride’s room must be included in the building, preferably with, or near, a restroom. Councilman Flynn opined that all restrooms should remain in the common area as people on the Square will be coming in to use these restrooms. Mayor Sager suggested having a portion of Meeting Space A used for storage of tables for the banquet area, or have storage off the community room. Mayor Sager said he’d like to see the Judge’s Chamber used for something other than storage. In response to a question from Councilman Prindiville, Mr. Anderson indicated Room 8 should not contain plumbing because just beneath that room there are two or three service panels with conduit over all the walls. Mr. Anderson added that it’s never a good idea to have plumbing over electrical, for many reason, especially if a toilet overflowed. Mr. Prindiville thanked Gary for that explanation. Mr. Anderson agreed that the old Courthouse is a very elegant building and is something that Woodstock can be extremely proud of. W. Piersall asked Mr. Moore for clarification pertaining to applying for and receiving historic tax credits, and if Council needs to make firm decisions on the Old Courthouse tonight. In response, Mr. Moore said there’s nothing we are doing now that can’t be changed. During the course of construction, things may change; however, the fewer changes the better. M. Turner said he likes the prep kitchen near the elevator, if that’s functional; it’s a good flow in that opening. He agreed with D. Flynn’s comments on the bride’s room; he’d like that room to be very well done. D. Flynn and W. Piersall agreed that a bridal suite is a high priority. There was some discussion about the ability to add a toilet to the bridal suite. Councilman Turner reiterated that the bridal suite is a must have, as this will be a key revenue generator, and we need to keep the bride and bridal party happy. Councilwoman Piersall said The White House Banquet Facility in Barrington said the bride’s room is a key to their success, so it’s very important that this is included here. Mr. Anderson said he believes the room can accommodate a toilet in the northwest side of the storage area, in the corner. There was a general consensus from Council that this plan is working out. J. Prindiville opined 11  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 that this plan requires more work; he’s not satisfied and would like additional accommodations in place. Mayor Sager said we need to be practical about this. Council had also requested additional information pertaining to the service/prep space/catering kitchen on the second floor near the elevator. Council wants to know if the City should proceed and if this is the preferred flow and space. In response to these questions, Mr. Moore said the City can hire an expert to focus on this aspect, which also includes moving restrooms. J. Prindiville said he would error on the side of capacity. D. Flynn opined, if possible, add the extra toilets; preference for five stalls. Mr. Anderson said they might be able to accommodate this request. There was a consensus by Council that there should be a toilet in the bride’s room, or very nearby. They also liked the flexibility of having a kitchenette that opens up to the bride’s room. Councilman Turner suggested shrinking the storage area to allow space for a toilet in the bride’s room. In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Moore said the bride’s room measures approximately 18 ½’ x 16 ½’ x 8’ wide. There was a consensus by Council to put a kitchenette in Room B on the west side of the storage space, and maximize the bridal space as much as possible. Mayor Sager said Council has come to some important consensus this evening. 1. Agreed on four women’s water closets in the first floor vault instead of Room 8 on the west side of the building. Councilman Prindiville does not agree stating Room 8 has better light, he’d like more explanation. Mr. Anderson explained the limitation of putting a restroom there due to plumbing and electrical lines in the room below. He had some additional suggestions; however, Mayor Sager reiterated that there are some limitations. There was a majority consensus, with the Mayor and five Councilmembers in favor. 2. Agreed on preferred areas for the catering kitchen and women’s restroom on the second floor. Council prefers five women’s water closets, if possible, in the west wing with the kitchen by the elevator and banquet room. D. Moore said they’d like to consult a kitchen expert or caterer to confirm that a kitchen can fit within the limited space. There was a majority consensus by Council. 3. Agreed on bride’s room with toilet (if possible). Council agreed on the location of the bride’s room and they’d like the room to include a water closet. Preference to have a kitchenette or sink and some storage in Meeting Room B on the west side, which can be used for meetings or a bridal space. There was a majority consensus by Council. Council recommended to proceed without objection. 2. Schedule Future City Council Workshop: Mayor said the purpose of this Workshop is to discuss financing for the streets program for years 2021-2024. Council set a date and time of Thursday, July 9th, 3:00 PM for this workshop. V. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS There were no items added to the tentative future agendas. M. Turner said he would like to encourage the Governor’s Office to remove the City of Woodstock and McHenry County from the same region as Chicago and Cook County. Mayor 12  Woodstock City Council 05-05-20 Sager said the County is working on this as well as MCCG and CMAP. Mayor Sager added that this is just the introduction of the plan. It’s important to understand that Woodstock might not have the capacity on its own to change this. M. Turner said his intention is for the City to work with McHenry County. VIII. ADJOURN Motion by M. Turner, second by W. Piersall, to adjourn this regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council to the next City Council meeting to be held at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 19, 2020 in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 10:26 PM. Respectfully submitted, Jane Howie Chief Deputy City Clerk 13