Village of
Westchester July 2016 Newsletter
From the Desk of The President POLICE DEPARTMENT
4
FIRE DEPARTMENT
5
CALENDAR
8
LIBRARY
13
PARK DISTRICT
15
NEWS AND NOTES
PUBLIC WORKS
26 30
This Independence Day please remember to give thanks for the service of those who fought for our freedom. Members of the American Legion joined President Pulia and Trustee Carl Celestino at the Troop 1 Flag Ceremony on June 11, 2016. Pictured from left: Trustee Carl Celestino, Edward Brotonel, David Lindberg, David Maren, David Hadac and President Sam Pulia.
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY TO ALL!!! Today we celebrate our independence from Great Britain, and the formation of our form of government. Like most of you, that is about all we remember as we celebrate with parades, fireworks, BBQ’s and an extra day off attached to our weekend this year. In researching information for the Newsletter, I read the Wikipedia posting of Independence Day which tells us the trials and tribulations of the 13 colonies and their aversion to taxes and fees mandated from King George III and the British Parliament without being represented. The War began for all intent and purposes in 1775 and ended in 1783. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress formally voted for independence, and issued its Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The article speaks of the unpopular STAMP ACT of 1765 and the famous quote “No Taxation without Representation”, the DECLARATORY ACT, and TOWNSHEND ACT that were instituted by Parliament to dictate Great Britain’s supremacy over the colonies established in America. As with any war, there were many casualties on both sides. One estimate is that 25,000 patriots
died during military service, 7,000 in actual battle and 17,000 from disease and starvation while being held in deplorable conditions as prisoners of war. Other estimates suggest the death toll is closer to 70,000. As you enjoy your holiday, reflect upon the sacrifices and the suffering of all of our forefathers as they put together the framework we enjoy as being the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. THE BEST COUNTRY ON EARTH!
MAYFAIR CELL TOWER UPDATE As mentioned in previous Newsletters, the entire Village Board unanimously rejected the special use zoning petition to allow a Verizon (SBC) cell tower to be constructed in the center field section of Mayfair Park, some 300 feet from residential property and the Divine Providence Church property. At our May 10, 2016 meeting I read the following into the record: “My name is Sam D. Pulia. Presently I am
See PRESIDENT, page 6
Westchester 2
JULY 2016
in
Pictures
JULY
2016
3
Police Department 4
APRIL 2014
From the desk of Chief of Police Steven L. Stelter
Building a strong relationship is an essential component of my vision for the Westchester Police Department. Each time the police department engages with the community we can enhance our relationship and give you a voice that will help sow the seeds that build trust.This will also help to improve how we deliver service to the residents and hopefully reduce criminal and anti-social behavior. In order to further this relationship building, I am planning on bringing back the nationally recognized “Citizens Police Academy” to the Westchester Police Department. The first class will begin in the fall, so remind yourself to check the website, Facebook and this newsletter in September for all the details. As July has hit us, just some reminders of the heat we will be experiencing and the affects that occur. Those especially sensitive to the heat are our precious children. I would like to take this time to remind everyone not to leave your children in your unoccupied vehicle
Police blotter 1) At 7:30pm on May 18, 2016 a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 11100 block of Martindale. The resident reported that unknown person(s) damaged their fence. 2) At 8:42pm on May 25, 2016 a Burglary to Auto was reported on the 1900 block of Downing. The owner of a work van reported that person(s) unknown entered an un locked van and removed power tools from the van. 3) At 11:52am on May 26, 2016 a Residential Burglary was reported on the 2800 block of Mayfair. The resident reported that unknown person(s) forced open a rear door and removed jewelry and miscellaneous items. 4) At 12:55pm on May 30, 2016 a Burglary to Trailer was reported on the 1400 block of Highridge. The owner of a construction trailer
for any reason whatsoever. When it is hot outside, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise to fatal heatstroke levels in minutes. So please remember to never leave your car without checking your back seat; never leave your child in a parked car alone not even for a minute; and call 911 if you see a child alone in a car, every minute counts.
reported that unknown person(s) gained entry and moved 3 power tools from the locked trailer. 5) At 3:20pm on May 31, 2016 a Retail Theft was reported at the Jewel Foods located at 2128 Mannheim Road. A 48 year old male was arrested and charged with retail theft after passing the checkout without paying for $174 in merchandise. 6) At 8:57am on June 1, 2016 a Criminal Damage to Property was reported at the Hampton Inn located at 2222 Enterprise Drive. The manager reported that unknown person(s) damaged and took the money from a vending machine located on the 4th floor. 7) At 1:15pm on June 11, 2016 a Theft was reported on the 700 block of Bristol. The homeowner reported that 2 bicycles were taken from the yard sometime during the past 5 days.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT On Tuesday, August 2nd, neighbors throughout Westchester are being invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for “National Night Out” crime prevention celebration. National Night Out is designed to: (1) heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) generate support and
participation in local anticrime efforts; (3) strengthen neighborhood spirit and community-police relations; and, (4) send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. Please join the Westchester Police Department in this year’s fun in giving crime and drugs a going away party!! Residents are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend an evening out with neighbors and police. The Westchester Police Department realizes the importance of partnering with the citizens to insure we can provide the best services possible. The men and women are extremely dedicated to protecting those within our community. I would like to congratulate the following officers for their particular work anniversaries this month: Sgt. Giuseppe Manna – 22 years of service on July 1st Officer Phillip Grollo – 21 years of service on July 7th Officer Eric LoCoco – 17 years on July 12th Records Clerk Alan Trucksa – 17 years on July 5th Detective Shaun Lynam – 12 years on July 16th
Fire Department JULY 2016
5
6
JULY 2016
PRESIDENT
representatives: “Nothing in this bill that prevents a locality, and I will do everything in conference to Continued from page 1 make sure this is absolutely clear, prevents a local subdivision from the elected President of the Village determining where a cellular pole of Westchester, Illinois. Prior to my should be located, but we do want presidency in 2009, I was employed to make sure that this technology is as a police officer for the Village from available across the country, that we December 2, 1974 to May 30, 2003. do not allow a community to say we In June of 1990 I was promoted are not going to have any cellular to Sergeant of police and assigned pole in our locality. That is wrong. to design, operate and manage the Nor are we going to say they can Village 9-1-1 communications center. delay these people forever. But the Westchester, Illinois was one of the location will be determined by the 1st enhanced 9-1-1 centers in the local governing body.” (See Exhibit suburban area. From June of 1990 1) until my retirement in May 2003, the 9-1-1 program was under my Since attending the first command and responsibility. Westchester Plan Commission Meeting on November 23, 2015, and The Westchester 9-1-1 System the recent March 21, 2016 joint Plan went live on May 19, 1991. Within Commission and Zoning Board of the next year, I recommended the Appeals meeting, I have immersed hiring of Mr. Greg Hribal as one of myself in reading many studies, the 9-1-1 telecommunicators. Greg reports, and legal opinions relative was trained as a telecommunicator to this issue. and exhibited exceptional skills throughout my tenure. He became As a police officer for 40 years, I the Supervisor of 9-1-1 and is have had to balance the Rights of the presently the IT/Communications Individual vs. the Rights of Society Manager for the whole village and and make decisions with that edict represents the ETSB (Emergency in mind. Telecommunications System Board) as a member. I value his Throughout my career and as opinion regarding any and all a member of society with a wife aspects of Emergency Telephone and children, I have, like all of us, Communications. seconded guessed my decisions and have asked myself “was there Technology has advanced from a better way”, or “could I have done the then landline ANI/ALI, (number, something different to achieve a location), and the MSAG (Master better outcome” had I had a different Street Address Guide) verification or additional tool in my toolbox. through selective routing from This is the position I find myself in the then Illinois Bell Telephone today. to cellular service identification of tower locations to the current I have been present at every public pinpoint technology identification hearing regarding the current request within several feet of a cell phone’s by Verizon to construct an 85 foot location through GIS Technology. (originally 120 foot) cell tower in what I consider close to the middle We have moved from bag phones, of Mayfair Park. As a private citizen, to brick phones, to flip phones, to I am on record at the November 23, several versions of I-Phone and Dick 2015 Plan Commission meeting of Tracy wrist phones, with internet opposing the planned location in connections to communicate with Mayfair Park, a location I frequented persons and places worldwide. regularly while growing up at 2245 Mayfair Ave. just blocks away. The vision of technology in the USA caused the creation of the Many opinions voiced by citizens, Federal Law called the Telephone both appointees to the Plan Communications Act of 1996 (the Commission and Zoning Board of Act). The ultimate goal of the Act Appeals, as well as residents alike, was to allow communications to have indicated their opposition to occur throughout the USA free the proposed cell tower for various of unreasonable restrictions and reasons including aesthetics, loss roadblocks from state and local of property values, green space, governmental entities. However, safety and also NIMBY (not in my Chairman Thomas Bliley, the backyard). Additionally, there have Chairman of the House Energy been many residents residing in the and Commerce Commission at footprint of the affected area who the time of the Act’s enactment, have stated on the record that they stated the following to his fellow have had NO PROBLEM using their
cell phones and computers while telecommunicating. The focus of my concerns will not be related to the concerns above, but on the actual necessity of the proposed cell tower and the potential of using an alternative technology if in fact an alternative site is not available to achieve a better outcome. I do not reside in the foot print of the affected poor communication area, which I will define using the coverage map supplied by Verizon as Windsor Drive on the north to Bedford on the south; Sunnyside on the east to Mayfair on the west.
Sunnyside and Wakefield, Sunnyside and Fairfield, Sunnyside and Newberry, Sunnyside and Preston, Sunnyside and Fleet, Sunnyside and Essex, and Sunnyside and Windsor Drive. The test was done the same as mentioned previously with me standing on the corners, sometime under trees while calling my office. The weather for the day was sunny and clear. NOTE: In all fairness to the test, there may have been one dropped call tallied at Sunnyside and Fairfield. It may also be attributed to operator error as I may have not let enough time for the connection to be made.
The third and final cell test was done on Monday May 9, 2016 In the packet of information given at about 9pm. I began at the to the various boards, I have not seen intersections of Buckingham and a formal engineering study of the Bedford, Buckingham and Carlisle, area provided indicating the name, Buckingham and Wakefield, the number, or location of complainants 10600 Block of Fairfield, the 10600 indicating the need for the cell block of Newberry, the 10600 block tower. We have only been given the of Preston, the 10600 block of Fleet, submitted coverage maps, both pre the 10600 block of Essex, and ended and post cell tower, and how the at the intersection of Buckingham coverage would improve service. and Windsor Drive.The weather that evening was considerable rain and However, I do recognize the letter cloudy. I did not use an umbrella as Director Hribal authored in 2015 I did not want any possibility that indicating there was a problem it would act as an antenna. I did with our police department MDT stand under trees at a few of the (Mobile Date Terminals) receiving locations. and transmitting data. (See Exhibit 2) I am tendering the results of my tests on a computer disk made I decided to conduct my own test by IT Manager Greg Hribal. With of cellular service in the affected the exception of the one dropped area. call enumerated above, all of the other calls were recorded without OnThursday May 5,2016,beginning being dropped under the weather at about 10am, I began making conditions mentioned. (See Exhibit cell calls from my village owned 3). Verizon phone at the intersections of Mayfair and Windsor, Mayfair BASED ON MY TESTS, THERE and Fleet, Mayfair and Wakefield, IS NOT A SIGNIFICANT GAP IN Mayfair and Carlisle, and Mayfair and SERVICE INDICATING A NEED FOR Bedford and at 2600 Mayfair (Divine THE CELL TOWER IN MAYFAIR Providence Church). PARK. I also continued my research starting at the intersections of Kensington and Bedford, Kensington and Carlisle, Kensington and Wakefield, Kensington and Fairfield, Kensington and Preston, Kensington and Fleet, and Kensington at Windsor Drive.
During my research on the topic I came upon an advertisement from Dolan Realty indicating an alternate technology was being utilized in the suburban St. Louis area where telephone poles were being fitted with “SMALL CELLS.” The ad goes on to say that “Small Cells are deployed on utility poles, or attached to I stood on the corners of the street buildings, where carrier requires locations while I called my office additional capacity in sensitive phone at 708-345-0092. I left a areas.” The bullet points referenced voice message on my office phone. that Dolan Realty Advisers led the The weather on that day was warm, first small-cell deployment in the sunny and clear. country in suburban St. Louis; subpoints indicated “Enhanced service On Friday May 6, 2016, at about with the right solution; Pre-engineer noon, I began the second cell test all sites with the local utility; at the intersections of Sunnyside See PRESIDENT, page 7 and Bedford, Sunnyside and Carlisle,
JULY 2016
PRESIDENT Continued from page 6
Understand the needs, guidelines, and regulations of the utility and the local municipality.” Apparently, the understanding does not include the wants and desires of the vast majority of residents who have signed a petition and have testified overwhelmingly that the proposed cell tower in Mayfair Park is not necessary. (See Exhibit 4)
towers. I consider this a material fact that was not conveyed to the Village by the Petitioner throughout the proceedings. I have asked for an email containing the content of the message for tonight‘s meeting however I can play my phone message for the record if necessary. (See Exhibit 7) I do acknowledge receipt of a letter from Attorney Michael Vogt of the Dykema Law Firm dated May 9, 2016 indicating that the Zoning Board of Appeals did not make any finding related to “small cell” technology.The letter goes on to state that Verizon is unwilling to explore this technology given the size of the geographic area, however, I state again we have not been supplied with any engineering report verifying that the installation of the small cell technology will not solve the communication problem as presented.
I have also found an article from our local newspaper, “The Doings,” a Chicago Tribune Publication, dated Thursday, February 4, 2016, indicating the Village of Lagrange, Illinois is mulling over the installation of small cellular gear to improve wireless communication. It appears that Verizon has made an application to the Village of LaGrange, which coincidently is about 1 mile away from the Village of Westchester, to Additionally, I requested Mr. Vogt allow small cells being attached to to toll the 150 day “shot clock” utility poles. (See Exhibit 5) until research could be done to determine whether or not small cell Additionally, I have also received alternate technology will or will not information from the Illinois work for our area of concern. The Municipal League that Senate request was declined by Petitioner. Bill SB2785- SMALL WIRELESS (See Exhibit 8) FACILITIES DEPLOYMENT ACT is presently being discussed in the The Telecommuncations Act of Illinois State Legislature this session. 1996 has been referenced many times (See Exhibit 6) in hearing before the various boards. Section 704 of the Act, referenced As you may recall from the below, gives pause to state and local Committee of the Whole meeting government authority: on April 26, 2016, I asked about (Sec. 704) Preserves State or local the placement of such devices on authority over decisions regarding the ComEd poles available in the the placement, construction, and affected area. I was told, not in exact modification of personal wireless terms, that it may be difficult dealing service facilities, but prohibits State with ComEd for placement; which I or local regulation thereof from: (1) replied that AT&T and Comcast lines, unreasonably discriminating among both private carriers, already have providers of functionally equivalent equipment on the ComEd owner services; or (2) prohibiting the utility poles. provision of personal wireless services. Requires State or local I went one step further. I called action on requests regarding our ComEd Government Affairs such facilities to occur within representative Jamil Muhammad and a reasonable time, with denials at a meeting with Mr. Muhammad, of requests to be in writing and our Village Manager Janet Matthys, supported by substantial evidence and Manager Hribal on Friday, May in a written record. Prohibits State 6, 2016, he told us he would look or local regulation of such facilities into the question but that his slight on the basis of environmental recollection, from a prior request, effects of radio frequency emissions is that there may already be an to the extent such facilities comply agreement in place with Verizon to with FCC regulations. Provides use their utility poles. for expedited judicial review and petitions of the FCC for relief from On Monday May 9, 2016, at about adverse State or local actions. 5:30pm, I received a call from Mr. Muhammad who indicated that Since the Plan Commission Verizon does, in fact, have an existing and Zoning Board of Appeals agreement with ComEd to allow are appointed boards with placement of Verizon equipment on recommending powers only to this utility poles as well as transmission duly elected Village Board, I am
submitting this document as our written findings for the record. I have reviewed Federal Court cases throughout several Federal court circuits in which there are various reasons enumerated where the placement of towers or antennas have not been allowed or have been modified to some degree to accomplish the goal of the ability to telecommunicate. Not only in emergency situations, but to communicate where and whenever we choose without interruption. In the case of Primeco Personal Communications v. Village of Fox Lake 26 F.Supp. 2d 1052 (N.D. Ill. 1998), the court relied on several court cases in its analysis. “The Telecommunications Act does not change the substantive land use controls enforceable by local governments.” “By enacting the Telecommunications Act, Congress did not intend to preempt the authority of state and local governments to regulate the location of cell towers within their communities.”
PRIMECO CASE ANALYSIS When presented with a question of first impression, this Court’s task is to predict how the Seventh Circuit would rule on the issue. In addition to the overview of the Telecommunications Act, we are guided by pre-Act cases analyzing zoning and administrative law.For the reasons explained below, this Court concludes that the Act’s writing requirement demands nothing more than written notification of a denial.With regard to the substantial evidence requirement, the correct standard for evaluating decisions made by local zoning authorities under the Act is a hybrid of the two trends outlined above, a sort of “probing deferential review”. Applying these standards, we hold that the Trustee Minutes constitutes a writing under the Act, but that the Village’s denial of PrimeCo’s special use application was not supported by substantial evidence. I. The Writing Requirement We hold that, under subsection (B) (iii), the written denial of a special use application need only notify the applicant of the local government’s decision denying the application. We agree with the reasoning of those courts that have reached this conclusion; namely, that the Act does not explicitly require anything more, such as express factual findings or the reasons for the denial. As stated by the Fourth Circuit, “[t]he simple requirement of a `decision .. in writing’ cannot reasonably
7
be inflated into a requirement of a `statement of ... findings and conclusions, and the reasons or basis therefor.’” Virginia Beach, 155 F.3d at 430. The Virginia Beach City Council is a state legislative body, not a federal administrative agency ( just like the Westchester Village Board). The “Reasonable Mind” of a legislator is not necessarily the same as the “reasonable mind” of a bureaucrat, and one should keep the distinction in mind when attempting to impost “substantial evidence” standard onto the world of legislative decisions. It is not only proper but even expected that a legislature and its members will consider the views of their constituents to be particularly compelling forms of evidence, in zoning as in all legislative matters. These views, if widely shared, will often trump those of bureaucrats or experts in the minds of reasonable legislators. (See Exhibit 9) I have read several other court cases in the Eastern District of California, 9th Circuit, in Newpath Networks vs. The City of Davis, and Newpath v. the City of Irvine that deal with issues concerning local control. I have also read Omnipoint Communications v. City of White Plains in the 2nd circuit in New York which dealt with the “public necessity” in showing significant gaps in coverage. The application submitted by Verizon, et al, does not contain any evidence demonstrating a “significant gap.” In fact my research indicates “no significant gap” after making over 30 calls on different dates and times and different weather conditions. (See Exhibit 10) I have included several newspaper articles from the Village of Wilmette, Village of Park Ridge, Village of Schaumburg, and Village of Tinley Park, all Illinois villages who have in the past denied the application for construction of cell towers in their communities. Westchester is no different with the same concerns and angst toward the construction of a cell tower, specifically in the middle of our beautiful Mayfair Park. (See Exhibits 11, 12, 13, 14) In conclusion, as President of the Village of Westchester,I will be voting to accept the Plan Commission and Zoning Board ofAppeals denial of this application to construct a cell tower in Mayfair Park as I do not believe the Petitioner has met its burden of public necessity by demonstrating a significant gap in coverage and has not identified any alternate locations or alternate technology available to remediate the alleged gap coverage
See PRESIDENT, page 20
Calendar 8
JULY 2016
Calendar JULY 2016
9
10
JULY 2016
Chamber
of
Commerce JULY 2016
11
12
JULY 2016
Library JULY 2016
13
14
JULY 2016
Park District JULY 2016
15
St. Joseph 16
JULY 2016
St. Joseph JULY 2016
17
18
JULY 2016
JULY 2016
19
20
JULY 2016
PRESIDENT
far south end out of the way from everything, one antenna being a stealth flag pole, the other a tower with other attachments around it makes it different in my book. For those who testified openly and honestly about your concerns with feeling and emotion, I would like to thank you for your participation. The Village Attorney and SBC Counsel are scheduling dates for a mitigation hearing before a trial date is set. I will keep you posted... Sam
senior housing communities in their portfolio. The company focus is to create a safe and active community for seniors. Services include cooking classes, health screenings, arts and cultural outings, exercise classes, gardening and more.
Overview of Westchester Senior Housing The project is being considered Continued from page 7 as a redevelopment of the “old “ and vacant St. Joseph H.S. located to the mutual benefit of all parties at 1840 Mayfair; the parcel is concerned.” approximately 10 acres. The new St. Please note that the Exhibits Joseph H.S. will remain operational referenced above can be found in The Need for Affordable Senior at its present location which is the May 10, 2016 Board Packet. Housing in Westchester. situated on about 20 acres of land. I am saddened and dismayed that Westchester has a population just The development will be affordable, SBC Verizon felt it in their best shy of 17,000 including about 6,907 independent senior rental housing. interest to file suit against the Village households. 2,554 households The building will retain its current of Westchester in the United States are 65 years or older (or 37%). To footprint and will remain a single District Court for the Northern ST. JOSEPH H.S. LAND SALE PROqualify for affordable senior housing, story building, but will be thoroughly District Illinois Eastern Division on POSED FOR SENIOR AFFORDABLE a household of two would need to gutted and transformed into senior June 9, 2016. Their 45 page filing, HOUSING make less than $36,960/per year and housing. Each unit will have its Because this is not a daily be 62 years of age or older.There are own private bathroom and kitchen. in my opinion, is an attempt to bully me and the Village into allowing Newsletter, it is very difficult to 1,160 households that are 65 and The economic impact will be in their antenna to be placed in a communicate information that older that would qualify: excess of $20MM and will create location that should be used for park occurs mid month until after the 31.1% of those aged 65-74 would approximately 200 jobs. programs. Most who voiced their fact. This is one of those times. The qualify; 50.4% of those aged 75-84 opinion were of a like mind, other Village Board will decide on June would qualify; 66.7% of those aged Comparable to Mayslake Village in than 3 members of the Westchester 28th to either approve or deny 85+ would qualify. The conclusion is Oak Brook/ Westmont Park District Board who voted to issuing a letter of support to the that over 45% of senior households The Westchester Senior Housing approve a long-term lease with SBC Michaels Development Company in Westchester would qualify for will have 74 rental units (62 1-BR for apparent financial gain in an to apply for funding to purchase affordable senior housing. units and 12-2-BR units) – Mayslake effort to increase financial support the vacant St. Joseph property Village has over 600 rental units. to implement improvements to park and convert it to affordable senior There is a shortage of affordable Age requirement is 62 years and housing. programs and operations. independent senior options in the older unless married couple; only My report which, I did not have to area. A survey of senior housing one spouse must be 62 and olderAt our June 14th Committee of options surrounding Westchester similar to Mayslake Village. Each do, was designed to take the emotion out of the equation and share my the Whole meeting, Brother Thomas show 4 independent senior household will enter into a one year objective to seek alternative options Harding, President of St. Joseph developments in LaGrange Park, lease-similar to Mayslake Village. in solving a data driven problem H.S. and members of the Michaels Brookfield, Melrose Park, and River All units will be affordable and a with police data communication. I Development Company asked the Forest. Rents for those properties percentage (25% or 19 units) will am told by persons associated with Village Board to consider writing a are: be rent-assisted- similar to Mayslake the Park District recently that the letter of support for the proposed $3,252/month for Bethlehem Village. The building will have many Village denial was because the Village senior housing development to be Woods Retirement Community building amenities for residents wanted some of the cash associated tendered to the Illinois Housing located in La Grange Park; and will be professionally managedwith the antenna placement. That Development Authority (IHDA) so $2,698/month for Canata Adult Life similar to Mayslake Village. fact is patently incorrect and was the Michaels’ Group could apply for Services II in Brookfield; $1,625/ made by a person who probably funding to re-develop the property month for Concord Place in Melrose Building Amenities never attended any of the public for senior rental housing. Mr. Hume Park; and $990/month for Altenheim Amenities will include a gathering hearings, and is truly misinformed. An, Vice President of Acquisitions & Park located in River Forest. The area/game room; movie/TV room; The mention of money for the Village Development of the Midwest Region rents are simply out of reach for fitness center; computer/business has never once crossed anyone’s lips for the Michaels Development many Westchester seniors. Tenant center; laundry room; storage room; at the Village Hall. I am here to try Company, presented a power point rents at Westchester Senior Housing bike room; walking paths; and free to solve the problem by using new presentation to those in attendance. would be $727/month and below on-site parking. technology (small cell) not available For those of you who were not able for a 1 bedroom unit and $874/ Unit Amenities when the Telecommunication Act of to attend the meeting, I will run month and below for a 2 bedroom Each unit will include a full kitchen 1996 was approved by Congress, and through the information provided to unit. The conclusion is over 45% with appliances, cabinets, and small cell technology SBC Verizon is the board via the slide presentation. of Westchester seniors are cost countertops, a full bathroom with trying to control through SB 2785 burdened by the senior housing shower, sink, toilet and grab bars The slide presention indicated the options in the area. Westchester (and other accessibility features), that restricts any local control over following about the company: The Senior Housing is absolutely individually controlled HVAC. All what they do. The one thing they did get right is Michaels Development Company needed. units have a universal design and that I am NOT in favor of the 85 foot was founded in 1973, and is a ADA accessibility. There is ingle antenna in center field at Mayfair full service real estate firm with Affordable Senior Housing in Other point secured access to the building, Park. What I do regret is that back expertise in affordable, market rate, Chicago Suburban Communities with no direct outside access into or in 2009 I would have done more and military housing development, There are a number of affordable out of the residential units. A typical research regarding the placement along with property management senior housing communities tn the 1-BR unit has a dimension of 24 feet of an antenna at the far south end and construction. They have Chicago suburbs including: Oak by 25 feet in size (600 sq ft). The of the park property. At that time developed over 50,000 housing units Brook/Westmont- Mayslake 600+ bedroom is 165 sq ft. living room there was no negative commentary in 35 states, and currently owns and units; Elmhurst- Anchor Senior is 195 sq ft. with courtyard view. A from the residents to replicate a manages 45,000 units. The company Living-229 Units: Meyerstown Senior typical 2-BR unit is 33 feet by 24 cell antenna similar to what was has won numerous national awards Apartments- 105 Units; Naperville- feet in size (792 sq ft) with a master erected in Community Park back in in design, development and property Charles Court- 130 Units; Glenview- bedroom measuring 160 sq ft., 2nd 2006. That’s not the case here, other management. Thomas Place-144 Units; Highland bedroom measuring 145 sq. ft, and than the similarity that the property Park- Frank B. Peers Senior- 68 Units; living room measuring 175 sq. ft., Michaels has developed, owned and Grayslake- Liberty Lane Senior also with a courtyard view. is owned by the Park District. To erect an antenna in the middle of a and managed senior communities Residences- 148 Units. See PRESIDENT, page 21 beautiful spacious park versus at the in 19 states, and they have 123
JULY 2016
PRESIDENT Continued from page 20
Admission/Retention Requirements Income qualification will be as determined by federal law. For 75% of the units (46 1- BR and 9 2-BR) a household of two must make less than $36,960 to qualify for residency- tenant rent will be up to $727 for 1-BR and up to $874 for a 2-BR. For 25% of the units (16 1-BR units and 3 2-BR units) a household of two must make less than $18,480 to qualify for residency - tenant rent will be 30% of household income.
property is open to Westchester seniors if they meet the age and income requirements. In fact, they will market heavily to and will welcome seniors from Westchester. The development is privately owned rental housing for seniors funded by low income housing tax credits and other funding. Only 19 units (25%) of the units will benefit from funding through the Housing Authority of Cook County. An entity controlled by Michaels will own and manage the property long term.
VILLAGE IN-HOUSE STREET PAVING Village crews have been working diligently to complete the in-house patching of roadways in the south section of the village. Portions of Kensington, Downing, Buckingham and Sunnyside have been patched. The majority of the curb lanes have been replaced with center section replaced as necessary as determined by the Public Works department.
Questions have arisen regarding the east side of Sunnyside between Wakefield and 31st Street. As you Responses from Michaels may recall, we are in the final steps of relocating a 30-36 inch sanitary Development Company In response to feedback, Michaels line from inside the forest preserve Development has increased the that will cause the curb lane to age requirement from 55 and be removed. We are not going to older to 62 and older. They have repave the street only to tear it up Age requirement removed the drive from Canterbury, during the next year. At a meeting 62 and older for residents, unless so no traffic will go through the with the Forest Preserve District a married couple. Only one spouse Westchester Intermediate School we had in early June, I indicated needs to be 62 and older. Age will parking lot. They have increased my thought to begin construction be verified at initial application the number of parking spaces from in October. As you may remember, and if any changes are made to 155 to 191 spaces. According to we will be installing a new sanitary household composition. Live-in numerous studies on the effects of sewer pipe from the area of aides will be considered on a case affordable housing on surrounding Brainard and Jackson in LaGrange by case basis, and will be subject to property values from the National Park down the Edgewood Street a credit/criminal check. In no case Association of realtors, New York Bike Path in LaGrange Park beneath can an aide be a family member of University, Arizona State University, 31st Street and along Sunnyside a tenant. The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas where it will connect to piping at City, and other sources: Affordable Wakefield. The existing pipe has Other requirements senior housing, especially when never been maintained and has All applicants will be subject developed at the appropriate scale, numerous connections where the to a credit check and criminal has either no or slightly positive Westchester Woodland Subdivision background check. Landlord effects on surrounding property was planned back in the 1930’s. references must be submitted if values. The appropriate size of the The relocation should reduce the a prior tenant. Management will proposed development, the strong amount of Inflow and Infiltration (I confirm that applicant is not on surrounding neighborhood, and &I) associated with the difficulties the national sexual predator watch a strong developer and property the Metropolitan Water Reclamation list. All residents must submit to an manager in Michaels will ensure District (MWRD) has with treating annual recertification of income and that the property will be well run storm and sanitary water being assets. and property values will not be received at their Stickney facility and will hopefully get Westchester negatively affected. Lease closer to complying with MWRD Every household will sign a onemandates for I & I reduction. The Michaels Way year lease. The lease will be strictly “Our success is deeply rooted in enforced. our ability to effectively collaborate, win trust, nurture relationships, CARLISLE AREA FLOOD PLAIN Those residing in the area adjacent Property Management adapt, and above all, deliver Michaels will own and manage results that work for our partners, to Carlisle Street may, depending on the development for the long-term. investors, communities, and our location, be in the AO Floodplain They currently hold and manage residents.” More about the Michaels according to the FEMA D-FIRM Maps. the vast majority of the properties Organization can be found at www. Those residents with mortgages are required to have floodplain which they develop for the long themichaelsorg.com. insurance which can be as costly a term. On-site staff will include 1 full time property manager and 1 If you would like to listen to the $3K per year. As a result of all of full time building engineer. On-site actual June 14th Board Meeting it the work Westchester has done to mitigate and reduce property loss in staff is supported by a regional vice can be found at president. Security features will h t t p : / / w e s t c h e s t e r - i l . o r g / the event of flooding in the past year with the expansion of the Mayfair include electronic key fobs, security DocumentCenter/View/3060. cameras, and on-site staff. NOTE: The actual presentation Reservoir, the installation of an occurred in the Committee of the additional 42 inch pipe on Carlisle Responses by Michaels Whole Meeting that followed the and improvements with piping along Development to questions from the Regular Board Meeting. I know by Buckingham, Downing, Kensington March Village Board Meeting the time you have read this that as well as other improvements, we The St. Joseph property does not the decision of the board has been have applied to FEMA for a review of currently pay property taxes as it made, however for those who are this area for possible removal from is a nonprofit organization. The following the issue here is what was the floodplain which would remove the flood insurance mandate for development proposal will add presented. those required to have the insurance. the property to the tax rolls. The
21
Attached is an acknowledgement from a FEMA representative to our project engineering firm V3 indicating our letter has been received. Dear Mr. Wolterstorff: We have received your request that the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) issue a revision to the flood hazard information on the applicable National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) map for the Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois. This e-mail is being sent to officially acknowledge the receipt of your request and replaces the paper copy acknowledgement letters previously issued by FEMA. The case number assigned to your request is 16-055494P, and the project identifier is Mayfair Reservoir Expansion. We are reviewing your submitted data and will contact you if additional information is required to process your request. If additional information is not required, we will issue a final letter of determination within 90 days of receiving your request. The re-mapping of the floodplain and subsequent removal of homes from the floodplain for the Mayfair area should be completed in the next 90 days.The notice above starts the clock running for FEMA to make this determination. They can either approve or deny. We anticipate approval and will post on our web site the results of the determination. Upon approval, homeowners may reach out to existing insurance carriers to get lowered rates, or shop on-line to get better rates. Upon denial, we will appeal and restart the process with focus on the reason for denial.We should hear the results by mid to late September . It is highly recommended that even though Flood Insurance may NOT be required that you seriously consider purchasing some level of coverage of flood insurance. For your information please visit the website www.floodsmart.gov
WESTCHESTER DRINKING WATER As a result of the Flint, Michigan problem with lead in the drinking water, I with board concurrence, have been pro-active in having our Certified Water Operators Vince Smith and John Fecarotta Jr. take a
See PRESIDENT, page 23
Community Development 22
JULY 2016
PRESIDENT
JULY 2016
from the curb. Similarly, if you are cutting your own grass, please take Moving forward,CSOs will continue an extra minute to sweep the curb. Continued from page 21 to check for grass/weed violations a Keeping our 2100 storm sewers free different zone daily when available, from accumulation and blockages samples of water from each of our however, citations can be issued by benefits the whole village. Many school buildings, park buildings, any officer viewing a violation or of you have seen me sweeping the day care centers and submit those responding to a complaint when curbs along Mannheim and 31St samples for lead testing through CSO is unavailable or off. street as well as our street sweeper Suburban Labs in St. Charles, Illinois, being utilized almost daily on our a State certified lab. I am pleased We will no longer issue the “door village owned surface streets to to announce that all of the samples hanger” courtesy notices for grass/ avoid sewer back-ups that could taken from the buildings this past weeds in excess of 8”. lead to residential problems. month have not exceeded the EPA requirements, meaning that the The first violation for long grass water going into the buildings from will be a $50.00 citation for OUTSIDE EMERGENCY PHONE During our budget process for the Westchester distribution system 7.56.020 “Long Grass, must be cut mains is safe to drink by EPA and within 5 days” AND A PHOTO OF fiscal year 2016-2017 that began IEPA standards. ANY PROPERTY receiving a long May 1, 2016, it was decided that due grass/weeds citation will need to to the minimal volume of walk in A letter will be circulated to the be taken. Photos can be emailed visitors to the police department on tested sites highly recommending with the address in the subject line weekends and between the hours of that each of the aforementioned to me for adjudication court. After 11PM and 7AM we would eliminate buildings test the drinking fountains 5 days, CSOs will follow up with the need to have part time, nonand faucets where water could be inspections and issue a citation for sworn civilian police records staff drawn for consumption. Depending double any previous fine (Maximum present at the police window. As a on the age of the faucets and the fine is $750). PW will then be result, an emergency telephone was material they were made from, there notified to cut the lawn and invoice installed directly outside the village hall front entrance. The red phone could be a risk of lead particles the property owner for the cost. is mounted on the wall directly to released, especially those faucets that may have water sitting in them For any future on-view violations or the right of the front door. The red overnight. This is the same risk complaints at the same location this phone will immediately dial 9-1-1 at we all have at our private homes year the ticket fine will be double NORCOMM. The area is well lit and and businesses. The EPA and IEPA the fine from last ticket at that under camera surveillance. Additionally a drop box has been are in the process of reviewing location (Maximum fine is $750). A recommendations regarding lead check for previous long grass ticket ordered and will be installed when contamination in water. What the can be made in the CIS system to received where water bills and the like may be dropped off without Village had done is to take a pro- determine the fine amount. entering the building which will active approach which certainly will make Westchester be out in Officers may continue to use the remain locked from 11pm to 7am front of any mandate that will come Code Enforcement Courtesy Notices each day. from the EPA-IEPA review. The test when responding to other code results are available on our web site enforcement violations. The soft at www.westchester-il.org . copy of those notices are forwarded VILLAGE AWARDED TREE CITY USA to Code Enforcement for B&F to STATUS Westchester was named a 2015 conduct follow-up inspections PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Tree City USA by the Arbor through the Records Division. It appears that the number of Day Foundation in honor of its high grass complaints has subsided. For those receiving a citation you commitment to effective urban forest I would like to thank our Code can contest the citation by contacting management. Started in 1976, the Enforcement personnel, and Police the Police Record Division at 708- Tree City USA program, sponsored Department for stepping up the 345-0060. You will be registered for by the Arbor Day Foundation, in efforts to keep the Village looking the village Adjudication Call held partnership with the U.S. Forest well kept and manicured; something at the Village Hall Court Room on Service and the National Association that we can all be proud of. I received the 2nd Saturday of the month. You of State Foresters is celebrating its this e-mail from our Deputy Police must contact the records division to 40th Anniversary this year. Chief confirming the need for our be assigned a court date you - can enforcement actions: Westchester achieved the Tree City not just show up. USA recognition by meeting the The Police Department has taken program’s four requirements: a tree over violations for long grass/weeds GRASS IN THE STREET board or department, a tree care As I drive around town, I am seeing ordinance, an annual community complaints since May 24th. B&F Technical Code Enforcement (B&F) more and more piles of cut grass forestry budget of at least $2 per inspectors will concentrate on along the curb line. The Village capita and an Arbor Day Observance other code violations. Officers and incurred costs in excess of $40,000 and proclamation. CSOs have responded to over 300 in Fiscal 2016 to vacuum out many complaints received by neighbors, years of accumulated waste from “Tree City USA communities see residents, trustees and observations the storm sewers throughout the the impact an urban forest has made by officers on patrol. Over Village. Our Village code prohibits in a community first hand, “ said 80 citations have been issued for grass to be left in the street. If you Dan Lambe, President of the Arbor long grass violations including 9 contract a landscaper to maintain Day Foundation. “Additionally, properties that have been cut by your residential/commercial lawns, recognition brings residents PW, while the remaining residents please make sure they are sweeping together and creates a sense of received the message and cut their the curb line and removing the grass community pride, whether it’s lawns.
23
through volunteer engagement or public education.” Trees provide multiple benefits to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants and provide a wildlife habitat, among many other benefits. Special thanks to the Environmental Sustainability Committee (ESC), Trustee Carl Celestino, liaison for the ESC, Public Works Director Robert Lewis and Management Assistant Jessica Spencer for their efforts in assisting the Village in attaining this honor. More information on the program is available at arborday.org/ TreeCityUSA.
MOVIE IN THE PARK It was nice to the some children and their parents take time out to attend our 1st Movie in the Park event on Thursday, June 16th. The movie “Rookie of the Year” was shown at the Westchester Community Park. A lucky raffle winner won a Cubs baseball/bat so that he can practice his skills – maybe he will be Rookie of the Year someday. Our next movie will be ZOOTOPIA scheduled for Thursday, July 21st. The movie will start at DUSK. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and enjoy the movie with your family and friends. Popcorn, pop and water is available for purchase.
2016 SPECIAL EVENTS AND FESTIVALS The Village of Westchester is planning another exciting season of events and festivals for the community to enjoy! We hope to again host a variety of smaller events throughout the year designed to foster community spirit and cultivate a welcoming, entertaining, and inviting environment for residents and visitors of Westchester. We hope you enjoyed the 4th of July Parade! The Neighborhood Block Party is a two day event scheduled for Friday, July 15th from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm & Saturday, July 16th from 3pm to 10:30pm at Community Park. On Friday, July 15th from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and again on Saturday, July 16th. The bands on Friday night will be Heartache Tonight (an Eagles Tribute Band) and Kicking Jimmy and the headliner on Saturday Night
See PRESIDENT, page 24
24
JULY 2016
PRESIDENT
a newfound understanding and appreciation for managing water in addition to providing the MWRD Continued from page 23 with an opportunity to provide many communities with a new tool will be the Chicago Experience. in combating flooding. There will be a variety of food vendors and activities for the kids. The MWRD will continue to accept Hope to see you there! orders for free rain barrels under Our next Movie in the Park will executed agreements through be held on Thursday, July 21st at December 31, 2016. If you want to dusk in Community Park, featuring participate in the current program Zootopia! please contact Gayle at the Public National Night Out will be held Works Department at 708-345-0041 on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 At or email ggolz@westchester-il.org Community Park. for further information. Music Festival and Chamber of Note: Part of the agreement requires Commerce Business Expo will be Westchester to inventory those rain held on Saturday, August 6, 2016 at barrels delivered. Those receiving the High Ridge Park the Rain Barrels are responsible for Please see the ad in this Newsletter them. for event schedules and more info on entertainment.
ELECTRONIC RECYCLING
Our next date for electronic recycling will be Saturday,July 9,from 9am to 11:30am. The recycling is for On July 30th from 10am to 2pm, Westchester residents only. We will Representative Welch is hosting a also be collecting non- perishable BACK-TO-SCHOOL HEALTH FAIR food items for the Westchester at Proviso West H.S. located at 4701 Food Pantry. I have been told that W. Harrison St. Hillside. A variety of the food pantry volunteers are vendors will be in attendance with providing assistance for 70 families resourceful information regarding on a regular basis. State law prohibits health and more. Entertainment Waste Management from placing will include: music, inflatable jumpy electronics into their trucks and house, face painting and free raffles. landfills. It will be left at the curb Food and drink will be available. with a yellow sticker and you will There will also be FREE health have to remove it from the curb or physicals & dental screenings with be cited. This is not a new law and I written parental consent and ID have written about it many times. required, FREE haircuts for kids, and 100 FREE school supply kits DO NOT drop off any electronics, containing essential items needed paint or other hazardous waste for an entire school year for the 1st materials behind the Fire House 100 families (one kit per family). or Public Works department. We Please bring insurance cards and are presently looking to identify medical records in order to receive the owner of a black pickup who TDAP shots. Screenings, physicals fly dumped electronics behind the and haircuts will end at 1pm. For fire department. As soon as the additional questions call 708- enhanced photo of your license 450-1000 or e-mail to repwelch@ plates come back, a $750 ticket emanuelchriswelch.com. is waiting. We offer the service once a month from April through November on the second Saturday MWRD FREE RAIN BARREL of the month. Here’s a novel idea PROGRAM TO END - bring the electronics to the event I recently received a letter from between the specified times, at the the Metropolitan Water Reclamation specified location, the overhead District (MWRD) that effective water tower off of Enterprise Drive December 31, 2016, the MWRD and Cermak Rd. Oh, I almost forgot will discontinue the free rain barrel - make sure your vehicle registered program and will return to its prior to Westchester has a current vehicle program of selling rain barrels tag or a $75 ticket will be issued. at cost on the MWRD’s website, www.mwrd.org. Presently 65 intergovernmental agreements have PRIDE IN 7 CAMPAIGN On Tuesday, June 21st, the been signed with municipalities like Westchester. Between January 2014 Westchester Economic Development and December 2016, the MWRD will Committee hosted its 1st Pride in 7 have funded and distributed more Campaign open house at Lawrence’s than 120,000 free rain barrels. The Fish and Shrimp located at 9916 demand for rain barrels has cultivated Roosevelt Rd. There are 7 Way
REPRESENTATIVE CHRIS WELCH TO HOST SCHOOL HEALTH FAIR
Finding Signs throughout the Village indicating the 7 Business Districts of the Village. I know you have seen the beautiful ornamental signs along the State of Illinois Right of Ways. I’m not going to tell you where they are or what they look like if you haven’t seen them. That is for you to notice and remember. I’ll give you a hint, Lawrence’s Fish and Shrimp just happens to be in the Addison Creek Business District. The purpose of the Pride in 7 Campaign is to recognize the uniqueness of the Westchester business environment, build a sense of pride in local businesses and community, and increase positive economic impact to local businesses. The focus area of the EDC is business retention, business development, strengthen community relationships, and community pride. The EDC consists of 7 members selected by me and approved by the Village Board. Members include Rev. Joe Mills, Lori Jo Fergle, Darlene Barber, Allison Musal, Bob Jankowski, and Brian Doruff. Village membership includes Community Development Director Melissa Headley and Board liaison Frank Perry. Along with the Addison Creek Business District, the EDC has established the Historic District, the Municipal District, the Fountain District, the Highridge District, the Tower District and the Prairie District. The EDC plans on hosting meetings in the remaining 6 districts in the coming months. By the way, my wife Maureen and I and Village Manager Janet Matthys had dinner at Lawrence’s on the evening of June 21st and found everything very tasty with the portion sizes just right. SUPPORT WESTCHESTER BUSINESSES!!
GO APE! AT BEMIS WOODS The first ever zip-line and treetop course in Cook County opened to the public on Saturday, June 25th at Bemis Woods in Western Springs. Community Development Director Melissa Headley and I joined Cook County Commissioner Sean Morrison, LaGrange Park Mayor Jim Discipio, General Superintendant of the Forest Preserve Arnold Randall and Go Ape Director Chris Swallow for a ribbon cutting ceremony and VIP preview on Friday, June 24th. More than a canopy tour, Go Ape Bemis Woods is made up of numerous rope ladders, 39 exciting crossings including the Log Swing, Wobbly Ladder, Japanese Bridge, Plank Crossing, Yamazoe Steps,
2 Tarzan swings and 5 zip lines. Note, the course takes 2-3 hours to complete. Melissa and I did complete the course – it was a blast! Please wear closed toe shoes and clothes that can get a little dirty. If you have any questions about what to expect on the course please reference the Go Ape FAQ page at goape.com/ frequently-asked-questions.
CHICAGO FIRE SOCCER TEAM TO HOST WESTCHESTER NIGHT The Chicago Fire Soccer Team will host Westchester Night at Toyota Park on Friday, September 17th. The Chicago Fire will be taking on DC United at 7:00 PM. Toyota Park is located at 7000 Harlem Ave, in Bridgeview, IL. Tickets are available by calling 708-496-6884 or visiting w w w. c h i c a g o - f i r e . c o m / v o w. Please let them know you are purchasing tickets for Westchester Night. Tickets are $25 and a portion of the ticket price will benefit the Westchester Food Pantry.The Village will be raffling off prizes to several lucky soccer fans.
WASTE MANAGEMENT CONTRACT INCREASE With your June water bills you have probably noticed an increase in the garbage rate. Effective July 1, 2016, Waste Management’s contract refuse rate with the Village increased by 4% over the previous year rate. This is the last year of a multi-year contract that was signed with Waste Management back in 2012. The Board indicated that they were interested in going out to bid next year. The regular household rate is increasing from $26.93 per month to $27.99 per month. The senior rate is increasing from $23.12 per month to $24.04 per month.
VILLAGE WELCOMES NEW FINANCE DIRECTOR We are pleased to welcome Chris Webber as the Village’s Finance Director. Chris has over fifteen years of professional experience in government finance, governmental auditing and real estate. He most recently served as Assistant Finance Director at a neighboring municipality. We believe Chris will be a valued addition to our management team. Welcome, Chris!
WESTCHESTER COMMUNITY ROOM COOLING CENTER Hot weather has already arrived in early summer. The Village Hall
See PRESIDENT, page 27
JULY 2016
25
News 26
and
JULY 2016
Notes
JULY 2016
News and Notes Continued
PRESIDENT Continued from page 24
Community Room will be available for extreme heat emergencies for those residents without air conditioning and when our heat index is such that health and safety is in jeopardy. For the past several years we have made available the Community Room for such occasions. The Westchester Fire Department/Police Department are to be contacted should the need arise. Fire Chief Jim Adams has provided the rules of the room for your information: According to the Village of Westchester Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), the Village Cooling Center will be activated when the following conditions are forecasted: 3 consecutive days with the heat index at 100 º F - 104 º F 2 consecutive days with the heat index at 105 º F - 109 º F Single day with the heat index at 110 º F or higher The Village Cooling Center in the Community Room is available to any resident that needs it temporarily. Typically, the hours for the cooling center are 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. There will be cots and water for residents to use. NO PETS will be allowed unless it is a certified service pet. The residents utilizing the cooling center are responsible for food and any other personal needs. This is for TEMPORARY use by residents. If residents need longer term assistance, we will make any accommodations within our power. If you need to come to the Cooling
Center, please report to the Police Department where you will need to fill out a Westchester Emergency Relocation Form and the police will complete a background check before you are allowed into the cooling center. Between EMA, the fire department, and police department, the cooling center will be monitored throughout its operation.
WITH RAIN COMES MOSQUITOES Reports of two mosquito batches testing positive for the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) have prompted the DuPage County Health Department to encourage county residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites and the risk of contracting WNV. As of 06/22/2016, the Des Plaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District reports: We have started to see some WNV activity in the district recently. The level is still very low with 3 positive mosquito pools out of 224 tests.The mosquitoes that can carry WNV lay eggs on the surface of water even on very small containers holding water. It is important that any thing holding even a small amount of water for at least 7-10 days should be emptied or removed. This includes potted plants, wheelbarrows, buckets, plugged gutters, child wading pools, bird baths, and the like. The number of unused and unmaintained swimming pools has increased in the district. If not maintained, these pools can produce large numbers of mosquitoes that can eventually be involved in WNV transmission throughout the summer. Please notify the district
See PRESIDENT, page 28
27
28
JULY 2016
PRESIDENT
kinds of hosts, mainly vertebrates, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and even some kinds Continued from page 27 of fish. Some mosquitoes also attack invertebrates, mainly arthropods. of any unmaintained swimming Though the loss of blood is seldom pools in your area. In addition to of any importance to the victim, the mosquitoes that can transmit WNV, saliva of the mosquito often causes the mosquitoes that are a nuisance an irritating rash that is a serious are also around. To protect yourself nuisance. Much more serious from both disease-carrying and though, are the roles of many annoying mosquitoes, use repellents species of mosquitoes as vectors labeled for that purpose. of diseases. In passing from host to host, some transmit extremely The Village of Westchester is harmful infections such as malaria, part of the Des Plaines Valley yellow fever, west nile virus, dengue Mosquito Abatement District whose fever, filariasis, and now the Zika headquarters is located in Lyons Virus. Information From Wikipedia. Illinois. In your property tax bill you will see a line item that covers ZIKA VIRUS MOSQUITO the cost of the mosquito abatement. INFORMATION I am again reprinting some I have seen the orange and white jeeps around the village treating the information from the CDC regarding curbside storm sewer basins. The what is known regarding the Zika District will continue to maintain an virus. What we know aggressive mosquito larval control No vaccine exists to prevent Zika program against these nuisance species of mosquito. The operation virus disease (Zika). Zika virus is mostly spread through of the district cover: All open water sources including the bite of an infected mosquito. retention/detention ponds, ditches, Prevent Zika by avoiding mosquito low areas capable of retaining water, bites (see below). Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus etc. are inspected on regular cycles treated whenever mosquito larva/ bite mostly during the daytime. Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus pupa are present. All curbside stormwater catch also spread dengue and chikungunya basins are treated using 30 day viruses. Zika virus can be spread during Altosid briquettes on approximately 3 week intervals. The curbside sex by a man infected with Zika to basins will be treated 5-6 times this his sex partners. STEPS TO PREVENT MOSQUITO season. All stormwater catch basins situated BITES When in areas with WNV and in back-yards, parks, etc are termed off road basins. Off road basins are Zika and other diseases spread by treated using 30 day Altosid briquets mosquitoes, take the following on a 3-4 week intervals. All off road steps: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long basins are treated on an average of 5-6 times during a typical season as pants. Stay in places with air conditioning well. To report the presence of dead and window and door screens to crows (or other birds) within the keep mosquitoes outside. Take steps to control mosquitoes Village, please contact the Cook County DEPARTMENT of PUBLIC inside and outside your home(http:// www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/ HEALTH at 708-633-8025. You can reach the Des Plaines controlling-mosquitoes-at-home. Valley Mosquito abatement District html). Sleep under a mosquito bed net if at 708-447-1765. When I called them the other day I was told to expect you are overseas or outside and are a great number of the non-disease not able to protect yourself from nuisance mosquito to his around mosquito bites. Use Environmental Protection the 4th of July. Mosquitoes are small, midge-like Agency (EPA)-registered insect flies which compose the family repellents with one of the following Culicidae.Although a few species are active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, harmless or even useful to humanity, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or the females of most species are para-menthane-diol. Choosing an ectoparasites, whose tube-like EPA-registered repellent ensures the mouthparts (called a proboscis) EPA has evaluated the product for pierce the hosts’ skin to suck the effectiveness.When used as directed, blood.The word “mosquito” (formed EPA-registered insect repellents by mosca and diminutive ito) is are proven safe and effective, even Spanish for “little fly”. Thousands of for pregnant and breast-feeding species feed on the blood of various women.
Always follow the product label instructions. Reapply insect repellent as directed. Do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing. If you are also using sunscreen, apply sunscreen before applying insect repellent. To protect your child from mosquito bites: Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months old. Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or paramenthane-diol on children younger than 3 years old. Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs. Cover crib, stroller, and baby carrier with mosquito netting. Do not apply insect repellent onto a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, and cut or irritated skin. Adults: Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face. Treat clothing and gear with permethrin or purchase permethrintreated items. Treated clothing remains protective after multiple washings. See product information to learn how long the protection will last. If treating items yourself, follow the product instructions carefully. Do NOT use permethrin products directly on skin. They are intended to treat clothing. Even if they do not feel sick, travelers returning to the United States from an area with Zika should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for 3 weeks. These steps will prevent them from passing Zika to mosquitoes that could spread the virus to other people HOW YOU CAN PROTECT YOURSELF Residents are encouraged to use a common sense approach in avoiding exposure to adult mosquitoes and any potential mosquito-borne diseases. Window screens should be inspected and repaired if damaged to prevent mosquitoes from entering the home. In addition, any openings around window air conditioners, clothes dryer vents, etc. should be eliminated for the same reason. If possible, avoid outdoor activities around dusk. Residents are also encouraged to look for potential mosquito breeding sources around the home and take the following simple steps: Throw away all trash that can hold water as cans, jars, bottles, etc. Clean rain gutters/downspouts to prevent water from standing in gutters, or on flat roofs. Change water in bird baths, wading pools, etc at least once a week.
Maintain swimming pools properly. Remove or turn over containers, buckets, etc which may accumulate water. Screen rain barrels to prevent adult mosquitoes from depositing eggs on the water’s surface. Aerate ornamental ponds and stock with goldfish or other surfacefeeding fish to control mosquito production. Dispose of any used tires without rims to prevent water accumulation.
COOK COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL Cook County Urges Pet Owners to Protect Pets From Communicable Diseases. Pet Owners Should Take Precautions Against Distemper Virus and the Dog Flu. Cook County Animal and Rabies Control is advising pet owners to prepare and protect their pets from the distemper virus and the canine flu. The department has seen an increase of confirmed canine distemper virus found in raccoons tested after displaying abnormal neurologic signs. The surveillance program for wildlife diseases in Cook County monitors rabies infection and other zoonotic diseases in wildlife and it also detects trends in diseases that can be spread to companion animals, said Dr. Donna Alexander, Administrator of the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control. “This year, 56 percent of raccoons that have been necropsied have been positive for the canine distemper virus.This exceeds the 46 percent experienced in 2004, the last year of a distemper epidemic in pet dogs in Cook County,”Alexander said. “The canine distemper virus occurs in the raccoon and coyote population to varying degrees and we believe that the numbers we have received so far this year warrants a precautionary warning.” The distemper virus affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous system of a dog. It causes symptoms that range from ocular and nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors and seizures. Death can occur from secondary pneumonia or nonresponsive seizure activity. Pet owners should vaccinate all dogs and all dogs should be supervised while outside, even in a fenced-in yard to prevent contact with wild animals, Alexander said. Additionally, cases of the canine influenza virus have been reported in the County. As of February 2, 2016, sixteen cases
See PRESIDENT, page 29
JULY 2016
PRESIDENT
County. NOTE: There will be no micro-chips done at these clinics, see micro-chip clinic dates below. Continued from page 28 YOU MUST HAVE A PICTURE ID WITH YOU FOR THE VACCINE TO were confirmed in Cook County. BE GIVEN. THEY ONLY ACCEPT Last year, an outbreak of the canine CASH OR CHECKS. CREDIT OR flu killed at least 11 dogs.“In January DEBIT CARDS ARE NOT ACCEPTED. and February of 2015, we had reports Hours of operation are from 10:00 from veterinarians throughout the am – 2:45 pm. Fees charged are $7.00 County of an increase in canine for a 1 year rabies vaccine (dogs infectious respiratory disease,” and cats), $21.00 for a 3 year rabies Alexander said. “The identification vaccine (dogs and cats with proof of of the flu strain H3N2 as the culprit previous rabies vaccinations) and of the increased severity of canine $9.00 for ferret vaccines (one year respiratory disease and deaths was immunity only). not made until late March and early The closest locations toWestchester April. We are testing and identifying are the Maywood Public Library H3N2 in many cases so far this year located at 121 S. 5Th Ave. on July and pet owners should take action.” 19; Brookfield Village Hall located Precautions recommended by at 8820 Brookfield Tuesday July 26; the Alexander and the veterinary Franklin Park Jewel located at 10203 community include: W. Grand on Tuesday August 23; and Keep all pets vaccinated against the VFW Hall in Berwyn located core diseases and additional at 1529 S. Harlem on Tuesday vaccines based on the animal’s September 14. For other dates, lifestyle. See your veterinarian as to please visit www.cookcountyil.gov. his/her recommendations for your pet. Remember some are required SORROW IN OUR MIDST I believe it would be fitting this by law. Social events for dogs such as month to end my writing with a dog friendly areas, training classes, solemn tribute to the memory of the grooming and boarding should be people, who through no fault of their visited with caution. Communicable own, were murdered by a person diseases are transmitted through who, personally, I am very glad was close association with other animals. shot dead by the responding police Make sure that your pet is vaccinated officers. What he did, and I will not and that the pets involved are dignify his actions by stating his equally protected. Minimalize social name, was truly unconscionable. He activities with your pets and pets shot and killed, with total disregard of unknown vaccination or health for human life, people he did not know, and had no grievance against. history. Visit your veterinarian at least I will not share my political view twice per year for health reviews regarding his statements to the 9-1-1 including recommendations on dispatcher, however, I will say for the vaccines and intestinal parasite several hours he held people hostage checks. Animals that are most and executed them, the victims felt susceptible to the viruses are those extreme TERROR. Several days after that are immune-compromised by the event, I emailed Mayor Buddy Dyer of Orlando and expressed age or other illness. our sincere condolences from our COOK COUNTY RABIES entire village. As you passed by our VACCINATIONS electronic sign, staff highlighted The Cook County Animal and in vivid colors the phrase “Pray for Rabies Control clinics provide ORLANDO.” I placed on our event affordable rabies vaccinations to sign at the Village Hall that “Hate bring all citizens into compliance Cannot Win.” I have attached my with the law, while providing an email and reply. essential public health protection against a deadly disease that has Dear Mayor Dyer, caused public health concerns in four states over the past two years. Please accept this email as one of Micro-chipping services are also sorrow and support for the City of available at our annual clinics to Orlando. As Mayor of the Village help owners reunite with their pets, of Westchester, Illinois a suburb of in the event of a separation. Please Chicago, I know having lost a cousin, look for one of our upcoming clinic a FDNY FireFighter, on September 11, events below. 2001 what thoughts must be going 2016 Rabies Vaccine Clinic on in the minds of all the citizens Cook County’s low cost clinic of your city, our country, and the services will be offered starting in world. The thoughts and prayers of June and run through early October the entire village staff and the 17 K each year. The mobile clinics operate residents are with you. at various locations throughout the
As a retired police officer myself, who have 2 sons, and 2 nephews as Chicago Police Officers, I want to compliment your Chief John Mina and Sheriff’s department for their quick response, ultimately saving the lives of many others due to their prompt action when negotiations appeared futile. Your words of resolve and healing will make your city stronger. Your leadership has not gone unnoticed from a mayor 988 miles away. God Bless … Sam D. Pulia, Village President Village of Westchester Mayor Dyer’s Response: Dear Sam, Thank you for your kind words of support. I am sorry to learn about your cousin who gave his life in the service of others. I know that you must share the same pride that I do about the heroism of our country’s first responders. Yesterday was the most horrific day in the history of the City of Orlando. And yet, today I am even more proud of our community because they came together, united to support the families and friends of the victims. We learned of the heroic acts of our Orlando Police Department and other law enforcement, as well as our citizens as hundreds of lives were saved throughout the night. The medical personnel that saved so many lives that were transported to the hospital are heroes. I am proud of how our City has responded to this tragedy and the dedication our City continues to show. We will not be defined by the act of a cowardly hater. We will be defined by how we respond, how we treat each other. Buddy Dyer, Mayor City of Orlando
FROM THE BOARD At the June 14th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: Approval of the Record of Bills ending 06-09-16 in the amount not to exceed $917,758.51 Approval of Minutes of the April 12, 2016 Village Board Meeting, the April 12, 2016 Committee of the Whole Meeting, the May 24, 2016 Village Board Meeting, and the May 24, 2016 Committee of the Whole Meeting Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports for Community Development,the Police Department, the Fire Department, and the Public
29
Works Department An Ordinance Amending the Westchester Municipal Code Regarding Restrictions on the Parking of Trailers in the Village of Westchester A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Façade Improvement Grant Program Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and Dimitrios Dimitropoulos for the Property Located at 10410 W. Cermak Road A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Contract Between the Village of Westchester and Omega Sign & Lighting, Inc. for Services Related to Street Light Emergency Work A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Contract Between the Village of Westchester and Winkler’s Tree Service for Services Related to the Multi-Year Tree Maintenance Program, in the amount of $322,467.00 At the June 14th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Active Agenda: A Resolution of the Governing Body of the Village of Westchester Authorizing the Execution and Delivery of a Master Equipment Lease-Purchase Agreement with PNC Equipment Finance, LLC, as Lessor, and Separate Lease Schedules Thereto for the Acquisition, Purchase, Financing and Leasing of Certain Equipment within the Terms Herein Provided; Authorizing the Execution and Delivery of other Documents Required in Connection Therewith; and Authorizing All Other Actions Necessary to the Consummation of the Transactions Contemplated by this Resolution At the June 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Proposed Amendment to Municipal Code – Open Burning Post Office HVAC Equipment Removal & Re-Installation Code Amendment – No Parking on Mayfair (Cermak to Dorchester) Prevailing Wage Ordinance Destruction of Executive Session Minutes Vacant Property Registration At the June 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: Proposed Housing Development – Michaels Group Gladstone Cameras At the June 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Information Only: Increase in Refuse Rates – 7/1/16
Public Works 30
JULY 2016
Public Works JULY 2016
31
32
JULY 2016