meeting minutesmeeting minutes board of trustees combined planning/business meeting june 15, 2020 at...
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HOMER TOWNSHIP 14350 W. 151st Street, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Telephone: 708-301-0522
Meeting Minutes BOARD OF TRUSTEES COMBINED PLANNING/BUSINESS MEETING
June 15, 2020 at 7:00 P.M.
Meeting Minutes presented to the Board for approval on July 13th 2020
Meeting Minutes approved by the Board July 13th 2020
Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Board of Trustees met via teleconference on June 15th 2020 in accordance
with the State of Illinois Executive Order 2020-18 and the Illinois Open Meetings Act. The public was in
attendance electronically. Supervisor Meyers conducted the Meeting of Township Board where the following
official business was transacted. Also present was Highway Commissioner Mike De Vivo, Attorney Sramek,
Homer Township Clerk Kathleen Kruczek and Assessor Karen Szynkowski.
The meeting began at 7:02 pm with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and
ended at 9:05 pm.
1. Call to order and Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America: The meeting
was called to order at 7:02 pm and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of
America was performed.
2. Roll Call: Supervisor Meyers, Trustees Kruczek, Fijan and Kalas. Trustee Offord joined the
meeting at 7:17 pm.
3. Matters from the Public (Non-Public Hearing items only): A. Mr. Tony Drabik: Mr. Drabik questioned the Townships intent to host future Township Board Meetings
at the Town Hall and not electronically. He cited, as of now, the Village of Homer Glen is currently
conducting their meetings publically. Supervisor Meyers answered while she cannot speak for how the
Village conducts their meetings or size of their meeting location during the Covid-19 pandemic, the
Township is following the guidelines set forth by the Governor of Illinois and TOI. Adherence to these
guidelines does not allow for a gathering of ten people or more (the Board alone is nine people) nor does
the Town Hall allow for proper social distancing. Therefore, to maximize guest attendance while
maintaining resident safety the consensus of the Board is to host this meeting electronically. Mr. Drabik
suggested the Township utilize the Village’s meeting rooms to conduct future meetings but added he
understands why the Township is proceeding as it is. Hopefully, Supervisor Meyers responded, she
anticipates the state will move to phase 4 of the Governors guidelines by the 26th of June thus relaxing
current guidelines.
4. Accounting: Motion to approve May, 2020 account payable and receivables by Trustee
Kruczek, second by Trustee Fijan-Supervisor Meyers, Trustees Fijan, Kalas and Kruczek yes.
No discussion-Motion carries. A. May, 2020 account payables and receivables
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1) Invite a motion to approve May, 2020 account payables and receivables of the following funds: a) Equipment & Building
b) Founders Crossing Bond
c) Founders Crossing (Operating)
d) General Assistance
e) Open Space
f) Park Maintenance
g) Park Developer Contributions
h) Road and Bridge
i) Town
B. Line Item Transfer of Budget Appropriation: 1) None submitted
C. Request for funding contributions (Resolution HT 2013-06/10): 1) Jacqueline McFedries, Volunteer Recruiter on behalf of CASA of River Valley. Applicant is
requesting $1,000 for volunteer training, supervision and support of court appointed advocates to
represent abused/neglected children. In 2019, CASA provided services to 12 Homer Township
children. Mrs. McFedries, a volunteer from the non-profit organization CASA of River Valley
spoke in regard to the program she serves. The mission of CASA (Court Appointed Service
Advocate) of River Valley is to train volunteers from the community to serve as the voice of
abused and neglected children in our court system, provide needed information to the court,
and help develop a more effective juvenile court process in Will and Grundy counties. CASA
volunteers deliver constant support to a child while advocating on the child’s behalf. They are
dedicated in assisting children throughout the entire process above and beyond that which the
current system provides. The goal of the organization is to increase awareness of child abuse
and neglect while servicing 100 percent of children in need. Donations received will assist in
training volunteers which is especially needed during the current Covid-19 pandemic. Given
the pandemic, Casa predicts an increase in cases thus making additional trained volunteers
necessary. She is requesting $1000.00 from the Homer Township Board to support training
efforts of volunteers. Supervisor Meyers praised CASA for their good works and the benefits
they provide.
*Note* Trustee Offord joined the meeting at 7:17 pm
a) Motion to approve the request for $1000.00 for training and supervision of one court
appointed advocate by Trustee Kalas, second by Trustee Offord, No Discussion, All Yes-
Motion carries.
5. Public Hearings: The Hearings will be conducted electronically due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the State of Illinois Executive
Orders limiting the capacity of all public gatherings to 10 people or less and prescribing social distancing
parameters. The public may participate electronically or telephonically using the above mentioned protocols.
After the moderator recognizes a participant to speak, please provide your full name and the city/village of
residence for the public record.
A. Call for a motion to commence the Public Hearings for the Homer Township/Lockport Heights Sanitary
District 2020 Community Development Block Grant Application; the Homer Township Road District
FY2020-21 Budget and Appropriation Ordinance and the Homer Township FY2020-21 Budget and
Appropriation Ordinance. Motion to enter Public Hearing by Trustee Kalas, second by Trustee
Kruczek.
1) A 2020 Community Development Block Grant Application on behalf of the residents of the
Lockport Heights Sanitary District requesting grant funding in the amount of $441,750 to accomplish
the phased project replacing the existing undersized transite water mains as detailed in the project
summary and cost analysis. Mr. Jason Holly from V3 Companies on behalf of Lockport Heights
Sanitary district joined the public hearing to assist with any questions regarding the CDBG
Application.
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a) Public participation. None
b) Motion by Trustee Offord, second by Trustee Kalas to approve ‘Exhibit B’ Resolution
sanctioning the application and authorizing its Chief Executive Officer to execute all
documents necessary for the application submittal. No Discussion, All yes-Motion carries
2) Homer Township Road District FY2020-21 Tentative Budgets as presented and published:
Equipment & Building and Road & Bridge Funds for fiscal year April 1, 2020 thru March 31, 2021.
a) Public Participation. None
b) Motion to adopt Homer Township Road District Ordinance Number HTRD-06152020
BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION by Trustee Kalas, second by Trustee Offord, No
discussion. All yes- Motion carries.
3) Homer Township FY2020-21 Tentative Budgets as presented and published: General Assistance;
Founders Operating; Founders Bonds; Open Space Operating; Park Maintenance; Park Developer
Contributions and Town Funds for fiscal year April 1, 2020 thru March 31, 2021.
a) Mr. Tony Drabik: Mr. Tony Drabik inquired about The Founders Crossing General Fund.
More specifically he queried how much money was spent out of this fund last year.
Supervisor Meyers answered approximately $325,307 by the end of the year. Mr. Drabik
then asked if this year’s budget will be similar as what was expended last year. Supervisor
Meyers explained that budgets are estimates and take into regard unforeseen expenses that
may not occur. This year’s budget allocates that $703,600 will be required. Voicing his
confusion, Mr. Drabik questioned the vast difference between what was actually disbursed
the year prior to what was budgeted for 2020/2021 at this hearing. Supervisor Meyers
reminded the audience that the Founders Crossing General Fund is not supported by tax
payer’s monies but rather by rental income. Furthermore in this fund bond payments are
allocated and a reserve must be held. She explained budgeting is a means of calculating
monies that may be required and is not indicative of actual money spent thus the difference
between what was spent a year prior to what was budgeted for the year coming.
Mr. Drabik went on to question senior housing and the waiting lists for Founders Crossing
Senior home rentals. He is confused how the Township proceeds with selection of tenants.
He indicated there is no numbering system and he is aware of a person on the waiting list
for nine years. Supervisor Meyers clarified that all applicable laws are adhered to during
the rental process and there is a robust waiting list. Furthermore, the same system of tenant
selection has been in place since the onset of senior housing. This structure utilizes a three
prong priority system for tenant selection established to achieve 100% unit occupancy in the
shortest amount of time possible considering the bond and facility operations are funded by
rents and not property taxes. The first list (1st tier highest priority) is comprised of potential
tenants who currently reside in Homer Township. A second list (2nd tier in priority) is
compiled of previous Homer Township residents or immediate family members of a Homer
Township Resident. Then lastly, (3rd tier least priority) tier 3 comprises all others rental
requests. Tenants are selected beginning with notification to qualified Tier 1 residents first.
Should this list be exhausted, 2nd Tier residents are notified, and then 3rd Tier accordingly.
The facility does not experience a rapid turnover of rental units. Very rarely does the
Township ever reach Tier 3 which could explain why someone might not be notified of
senior rental availabilities for a long time. Additionally, a potential rental candidate must
be prepared to promptly move forward with the process when a unit becomes available.
After waiting list candidates are notified of a vacancy they begin the process of viewing the
unit, submitting an application and authorizing credit and background verifications. At
times, there are several candidates submitting applications during this process. The
candidate(s) meeting the financial and background verification standards, submitting the
nonrefundable security deposit and committing to the lease execution are eligible for the
rental unit. The business model and financial viability of the housing program is centered
upon securing new leases for vacant units as quickly as possible. Therefore, rental units
cannot be held or remain vacant for unnecessary periods without rental income.
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b) Mr. Mark Gawron: Mr. Gawron asked if the numbers budgeted in general (all funds)
reflect the current economic reality given the Covid-19 pandemic and if these numbers were
adjusted to reflect the possibility of a decrease in funding? Supervisor Meyers replied
budget work begins in the fall and reflects Board approved projects which were commenced
prior to the onset of Covid-19. The Township’s main source of revenue is property taxes,
however, not all of the Township Funds are supported from property taxes and the amount
of property tax received for the Township is relatively small. Will everyone pay their
property taxes and will the projected income be realized is an unknown. However,
Supervisor Meyers continued, she is not aware of any major impact from Covid-19 to date
that would affect the budget. Reminding the audience, Supervisor recapped that a budget is
simply a financial plan. Funds do not have to be spent other than any current contractual
obligations. Citing an example of the 2008 recession, Supervisor Meyers explained while
that was a very difficult time many of the same concerns for funding that present then are
present now. At that time, Will County had an upper 90 percent collection rate of property
taxes despite the economic crisis. Furthermore, capital reserves and rainy day funds can be
utilized if indicated in accordance with appropriate laws.
Inquiring further, Mr. Gawron wanted clarification on the Park Fund regarding budget
versus actual. He was unable to see what was actually spent on the Parks Fund last year for
comparison purposes. Answering, Supervisor Meyers stated the position of the Board is to
audit/analyze its budget versus actual expenditures and revenues both monthly and
annually. The Board utilizes a three-year comparative analysis format for its budgets,
however, the preparation of the budgets take into consideration factors such as the previous
year’s budget versus actual figures. Last year, total expenditures for the Park fund was
$250,400.00. Reserves are set aside for both emergencies and budgeted projects. Board
approved budgeted projects that have not yet begun are reflected in the budget and carried
over to the following year along with representing numbers to be publicized in the current
budget. In part, this accounts for differences between this years budgeted expenditures
versus last year’s actual expenditures in the Park Fund. Further, the levy request for
property taxes revenues for the Park Fund (capturing new growth and at the top of the
required tax caps) was increased and the Township is projected to receive $290,522. With
this in mind, the amount to be received is not substantial especially given the associated cost
of maintaining 100 plus acres of parkland, playgrounds and several sporting facilities along
with meeting operational/payroll obligations, facility improvements and necessary repair
projects.
Mr. Gawron also asked how projects are prioritized for work under capital improvement
for resident use in the Park Fund and if public opinion is sought after or considered.
Specifically, he referred to a $279,000.00. line item under expenditures from the Park Fund
and asked Supervisor Meyers to expand on some improvements that would be included in
this category. Supervisor Meyers stated the Football Announcers Tower alone is
$240,000.00. and falls under this expenditure. Various other projects like the mechanical
shed repair, baseball net mending, Morris Park concession repairs, sports storage and
baseball scoreboard upgrades are also included in this budgetary expense. Regarding
solicitation of public opinion or desire, the Township is not at a financial place to take into
consideration public want at this time given the limited funds received and the immediate
demand of essential work. However, the Board has publicly set priorities to update things
like outdated/ dangerous playground equipment, solicited direct public input/public
hearings on specific projects and receives input from members of the public serving on
committees. Over numerous years the Board established and implemented restoration
plans by priority for each of its parks. Morris Park is overdue for planned overall
site/amenity restoration and the Board planned to begin site plans and solicit grant funding
this year. Unfortunately, with limited funding plans get delayed/go unfunded as more
pressing repair projects may arise as with the Announcer’s Tower that take precedent due
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to vital needs. Nevertheless, public input is sought when statutorily required or as grant
applications are pursued with matching dollars. Still, this pursuit of grant funding is not
always accomplished despite efforts due to its competitiveness, Thus the public should be
aware that although their opinions/ desires may be sought in the planning process, there
remains the possibility a grant may not be awarded or funding may not be available. The
Township however continues efforts to increase reserves in this fund with the goal of future
projects/improvements on behalf of the residents.
In regard to Grant expenditures in the Park Fund (line 769) Mr. Gawron queried a cost of
$30,000.00 for a line item titled grant expense. Supervisor Meyers clarified that this Line
Item is projected to cover associated expenditures from a previous grant for Culver Park
Pond and potential new grant application costs such as studies, application expenses,
developing site plans, grant fund matching requirements and any expenditures required for
the grant which are not reimbursed or are the Townships responsibility by the terms of the
grant.
c) Jennifer Consolino: Mrs. Consolino asked how much was spent last year in the Open Space
Fund and what the projected expenditures are for this year. Supervisor Meyers answered
last year expenditures were just under $30,000., specifically, $29,197.34. This year budgeted
expenditures, if necessary, are listed on the budget being referenced at this meeting.
Clarifying, Supervisor Meyers explained to Mrs. Consolino that “budget” expenditures
aren’t necessarily indicative of actual spending and include contingencies and capital
reserves. She explained the Line Item format required for governmental accounting differs
from budgeting in the private sector. Revenues and Expenditures are separated and do not
offset each other (balances). The expenditure portion of the government budget must reflect
all potential costs and long term reserves, such as the Capital Reserve Line Item which is an
accumulation of money over a projected number of years for a specific identified purpose
(i.e. capital projects, restorations, etc.).
Mrs. Consolino confirmed that the Open Space Fund is projected to start with a balance of
$960,322.48 and probed if these monies would be utilized for the multipurpose structure
that will be presented as an Advisory Referendum at the November 3rd General Election.
Supervisor Meyers replied that the results of the referendum will most likely affect the
Board’s decision if any monies from this fund may be utilized. However, the three year
projection of this fund has remained consistently over $900,000.00 dollars. Expanding,
Supervisor Meyers added that this fund does not receive revenues from tax dollars. Its
future income sources are predominantly from farm leases and a rental unit income.
Referring to a comment made from Mr. Gawron previously, Mrs. Consolino sought to
confirm the Supervisors contentions that no budgetary impact was felt due to the Covid-19
pandemic. Supervisor Meyers corrected Mrs. Consolino adding that she did not say there
was no impact rather that there was no impact that she is aware of at this time.
Questioning monies budgeted in capital improvements for the Park Fund ($279,000), Mrs.
Consolino queried what projects fall under this line item. While she was aware that the
Announcers Football Tower would be included in this line item, she believed that monies for
this project would be split into 2 years of budgeting based on previously attended Board
Meetings. Aside from the Football Announcers Tower which is the bulk of the funds to be
spent, Supervisor Meyers explained, other projects like the repairs on the mechanical shed
and scoreboards are being addressed in this budgetary line item. Regarding the division of
fees for the Football Announcer’s Tower, Supervisor Meyer added, the project began
during the last fiscal budget cycle and it was the desire of the Board to split the project into
two budgetary years at the time if possible. The contractor was not able to split the project
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in half due to scope of work and increased costs, however, the project is phased and they
hope to complete the project before the weather changes during the current fiscal year.
Referring to line item 673 under Open Space/expenditures, grant proceeds, Mrs. Consolino
desired to address specific questions. However, Supervisor Meyers concluded that no line
item 673 exists under Open Space for expenditures or revenues. Mrs Consulino was unable
to clarify a correct Line Item number, but, indicated she was wondering why for example
under Grant Revenue Line Item there was no indication of receiving revenue. Meyers
explained the differences between revenues and expenditures in governmental accounting.
Adding, that expenditure Line Items dictate the upper most limit which cannot be exceeded.
However, with regard to the revenues the budget can only reflect money expected to be
received. Considering there is no current approvals/applications for grant funding for Open
Space Fund at this time, an estimate cannot be established. However, the Line Item is kept
on the budget with $1 budgeted in the event a grant was received in the fiscal year, there is
an accounting mechanism in place to accept the funds (there is no upper most limit for
receiving revenues in governmental accounting budget). Mrs. Consolino chose to abort this
question due to a clerical error while compiling concerns.
In the Town Fund Mrs. Consolino queried what the total expenditures were last year. The
Town Fund Supervisor Meyers explained is split between the Assessor’s Office Budget and
the General Town Fund. In the General Administrative Fund expenditures were
$1,035,939.55. The assessors total expenditures Supervisor Meyers added was $346,840.56
Under Town Fund line item 746 Public Relations for a total $5000.00 Mrs. Consolino
requested to know the purpose of this line item. Public relations Supervisor Meyers
answered is utilized for community outreach, advertising and promoting Homer Township.
Regarding Line item 748, $95,000.00, Public Transportation Services, Mrs. Consolino
inquired as to how many years the Township has been collecting for transportation services.
Mrs. Consolino contends that last year revenues were received on behalf of Public
Transportation Services while no services existed. Supervisor Meyers corrected Mrs.
Consolino and informed her that this line item has been in place for transportation services
for a lengthy time and while they may annually budget for an item, it does not mean they
are collecting taxes each year for the expense. Any budgeted expenditures not used are
identified in the ending balance and redistributed in the next fiscal year budget. Meyers
added that the Township does not levy for the full amount of its annual expenses in most
funds and reminded that some funds do not levy a property tax at all. Furthermore, Item
748 is not unilaterally a line item to institute a new program. Citing a previous discussion
with Mrs. Consolino about the topic at hand, Supervisor Meyers added, Homer Township
does fund transportation services for the current Dial a Ride and for Pace in Homer
Township through the Line Item. Will County does not pay for these services. Will County
does advertise it on their website however Homer Township funds the service.
Concerning line item 758 Mrs. Consolino questioned $20,000.00 for a security system.
Wondering, she asked where the security system is located. Supervisor Meyers answered
the security system is in the Homer Township Administration Building.
Mrs. Consolino questioned the $12,000.00 budgeted in Line item 761, Special Recreation
Association, and pondered what the monies are used for. Supervisor Meyers explained that
years ago in light of the fact that most of Homer Township is not a part of a Park District,
the public requested the Board to assist with providing recreational services for the special
needs community. Initially the Township negotiated an agreement with the Northern Will
SRA to allow Township residents to participate in their programming in exchange for the
Township providing a portion of the out of district fees. A few years ago the Township
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facilitated a similar agreement with the Lincolnway SRA. Unlike communities of a Park
District, Homer Township residents are now able to participate in two different SRA
programs as a result of the Township’s negotiations with each agency. Based upon the
recommendation of the Senior and Special Needs Committee the funds available to the SRA
were previously increased from $10,000.00 to $12,000.00. to meet increased participation.
On line item 770, Town Fund, Vehicle purchase, $90,000.00, Mrs. Consolino inquired why
the budgeted amount was altered from $50,000.00 the previous years to $90,000.00 budgeted
for this year. She speculated if a new vehicle was to be purchased. Supervisor Meyers
answered that while we budgeted for the purchase of a vehicle last year, we did not complete
a purchase or use the funds. Currently the Township is looking to replace their dump
truck. Large equipment such as this can be a sizable cost however, the cost of equipment
can be split with any associated funds that utilize this expenditure based on available funds.
Line item 776, $75,000.00, Parking lot maintenance, Town Fund, Mrs. Consolino contends
this number is very high for parking lot maintenance at the Administrative Offices.
Supervisor Meyers answered that these budgeted funds are used for any Township
properties without specific budget Funds, such as the Town Hall and Administration
parking areas.
Mrs. Consolino requested information on Line item 790, $50,000.00, Senior Housing Deficit
Reserve, Town Fund. As a condition of the Bond, Supervisor Meyers explained, the Town
Fund must maintain a $50,000.00 reserve in the event of a deficit.
Mrs. Consolino stated that a line item under Town Fund allocates $400,000.00 in capital
reserve, and questioned if the Town Fund has approximately 1.6 million? Supervisor
Meyers voiced her confusion as to where Mrs. Consolino was deriving 1.6 million but
explained it is the hope of the Township to achieve $400,000.00. in capital reserve. Mrs.
Consolino asked how much do we have in cash reserve? Supervisor Meyers clarified there
is no such thing as cash reserve. However, it is the Townships budgeted plan to accumulate
$400,000.00 in the capital reserve by the end of the year. Mrs. Consolino voiced her concern
should the Township be unable to fund the $400,000.00 in capital reserve. Supervisor
Meyers responded that this is a budget or a guide and is not indicative of what is actually
spent or accumulated. Should the Board not spend in excess of this budget they will remain
within financial parameters. In addition, line items transfers are permissible by law and
transferred funds can be utilized if needed. And while it is rare that line item transfers are
performed, it is available when necessary. Through proper planning and budgeting the
township tax rate has decreased the last five years. This intricate form of the line item
budgeting system is provided to the public that they may have a reasonable idea of the
Boards potential spending for the fiscal year.
Mrs. Consolino suggested the Township keep track of senior usage of Pace. Supervisor
Meyers explained Pace provides a ridership report, however it is not just utilized by seniors.
Pace does not distinguish between and provides combined monthly use reports for both
senior and ADA service to the Township.
d) Call for motion to adopt FY 2020-21 Homer Township Budget and Appropriation Ordinance
Number HT2020-0615-ORD1. Motion to adopt FY 2020-21 Homer Township Budget and
Appropriation Ordinance Number HT2020-0615-ORD1 by Trustee Kruczek, second by
Trustee Offord, No Discussion, All Yes- Motion carries.
B. Call for a motion to close the Public Hearings and return to regular meeting agenda. Motion to close the
Public Hearings and return to the regular meeting agenda by Trustee Fijan, second by Trustee
Offord, No discussion, All Yes- Motion carries.
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6. Highway Commissioner Mike DeVivo Report: No Report
7. Assessor Karen Szynkowski Report: Assessor Szynkowski updated the audience that on the 2020
Annual Exemption Renewal Application, in response to Covid-19, the governor signed public act 101-
635 into law, Friday June 5th 2020. The bill allows all qualified exemptions levied in 2019, payable in
2020, including the homestead exemption, persons with disabilities, standard homestead exemption,
veterans disability, senior citizens disability, freeze, homestead exemption, to be automatically renewed
and processed without anyone’s reapplication for 2020 payable for 2021. With the exception of new first
time applicants, who can call the Assessor’s office at 708-301-8166 for assistance with new applications,
renewal will be automatic for previous applicants.
8. Clerk Kathy Kruczek Report: A. FOIA Report:
1) FOIA tracker report: May 2020
B. Minutes: (Note: Approved Township minutes available online at: www.homertownship.com)
1) Minutes presented for Board approval:
a) May 11, 2020 Regular Board Meeting Minutes
1. Motion to approve the May 11th, 2020 Regular Board Meeting Minutes by Trustee Kalas,
second by Trustee Fijan, No Discussion, Yes Supervisor Meyers, Kalas, Fijan, Offord-
Abstain Trustee Kruczek, Motion carries.
b) Semi-annual review of Executive Session Minutes to release or withhold
1. Approved Executive Session Minutes of May 13, 2019
a. Motion to withhold Executive Session Minutes of May 13th 2019 by Trustee Kruczek,
second by Trustee Kalas, No Discussion, All yes-Motion carries.
9. Supervisor Pam Meyers Report: A. Status Report Facilities/Property Management:
1) Senior Housing Facility:
a) All rental payments are current, all available units are occupied and lease agreements up-to-date.
b) Enbridge Energy closed the northern road access to the facility and began work on Township
property without notice. Upon investigation, Supervisor required that an access agreement and
payment was required. Therefore, the agreement was executed after the work began.
2) Town Center Sports Field properties:
a) Baseball Field Scoreboard Replacements:
1. The Township Board approved a proposal to participate in a 3 way cost sharing agreement
with the Homer Athletic Club, the Village of Homer Glen and Homer Township to replace the
scoreboards on the baseball fields at Town Center Park. The Board directed their Supervisor
to solicit a proposal for the project through the Naperville Job Order Contracting agreement.
In accordance with permitting standards required by the Village of Homer Glen and the
Daktronics scoreboard manufacturer warranty specifications, a structural engineer was enlisted
to facilitate scope of work and proposal preparation.
Upon engineering review, it was determined that the existing footing foundations and support
posts on the current scoreboards could not be reused on the new scoreboards as they did not
meet the established permitting, warranty and safety requirements. Therefore, a proposal
prepared by Robe, Inc. (JOC contractor) includes the labor & equipment necessary for the
demolition/removal of all four existing scoreboards, footing foundations and I-beams;
installation of four new scoreboards, footings, I-beams, electrical connections; programming
& training personnel on use of scoreboards; required construction safety fencing and
restoration work as identified in the complete proposal provided.
a. Call for a motion directing the Supervisor to present the proposal in the amount of
$85, 926.49 to the Village of Homer Glen and Homer Athletic Club for their respective
approval to contribute one third each of the project costs. Motion by Trustee Kalas,
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second by Trustee Kruczek, No discussion, Yes-Supervisor Meyers, Trustee Kalas
Kruczek and Fijan. Abstain-Trustee Offord, Motion carries b. Call for a motion that upon said cost sharing authorizations by the Village and HAC, to
direct the Supervisor to execute any cost sharing agreements, required documents, proceed
with securing the permits and scheduling the work. Motion by Trustee Kalas, second by
Trustee Kruczek, Discussion: Trustee Fijan questioned if it appears all parties will
approve the $85,000.00? Supervisor Meyers replied while she does not have a
commitment from the Homer Athletic Club she believes it would require
presentation to their board for approval. Regarding the Village, Supervisor Meyers
contends that they are aware of the supplemental work required and believes they
would remain committed to the cost arrangement. The purpose of this motion
Supervisor Meyers added, is to allow the process to move forward more quickly by
eliminating the need to come back to the Board should all parties agree on the initial
motion which designates project cost and appropriate monetary responsibilities by
each respective entity. Trustee Fijan responded asking if all parties involved would
be required to provide monies owed immediately. Trustee Kruczek contends that no
notes should be held for any parties. Supervisor Meyers suggested that each party be
invoiced separately for their portion of the project by the contractor. (Mr.
Rodgehero Homer Athletic Club President joined the conversation.) Mr Rodgehero
responded on behalf of the Homer Athletic Club that organization will be unable to
commit to their one third of the cost sharing agreement due to financial matters
triggered by Covid-19. Adding, that the Homer Athletic Club Organization is looking
to apply for a disaster relief loan to survive this year. Trustee Kruczek
recommended putting the project on hold until all parties are prepared and
suggested it be revisited when the Homer Athletic Club is better equipped. Mr.
Rodgehero concurs. Supervisor Meyers suggested the possibility of doing repairs to
the scoreboard that is leaning only and can present to the Village if directed by the
Board. Desiring to rectify the leaning scoreboard, Trustee Kalas supports Supervisor
Meyers contacting the Village. Trustee Kalas withdraws his original motion and
Trustee Kruczek withdraws the second. A new motion is made by Trustee Kalas
directing the Supervisor to present the new information to the Village of Homer Glen
and then report back to the Board, second by Trustee Kruczek, All yes-Motion
carries.
b) HAC Facility Use of Town Center & Culver Park in light of Covid pandemic:
1. Due to the outbreak of the pandemic HAC recreational programming was canceled. However,
now we have moved into Governor Pritzker’s Restore Illinois Phase 3, which enables youth
sports reopening with specific guidelines and limitations. The Supervisor and HAC President
have been collaborating on the development of potential safety compliant procedures that
would enable HAC to salvage the balance of its originally planned annual programming.
Together we believe that a usage agreement can be developed in compliance with the
Governor’s directives at this time. HAC will assume full responsibility for enforcing the terms
of the agreement which will require a one-time, exclusive waiver of the Homer Township
Sports Policy regarding residency requirements. Basically, while the HAC organization
overall does meet the outlined residency requirements by submitted rosters, the majority of the
resident participation rosters comes from the recreational programming. Considering those
scheduled games have expired, the remaining games are for travel teams that provide a lower
number of resident participants (estimating about 76% residents).
a. Call for a motion directing the Supervisor to draft an updated Facility Usage Agreement
reflecting the guidelines of the Restore Illinois phased reopening and providing HAC a
singular, exclusive covid related waiver of the Township’s residency requirement and
delegating the Supervisor the authority to execute said agreement conditioned on legal and
insurance review/endorsement. Motion by Trustee Kruczek, second by Trustee Kalas.
Discussion: Trustee Fijan is concerned about social distancing for safety purposes and is
Page 10 of 11
against field usage at this time. Yes-Supervisor Meyer, Trustees Kruczek and Kalas. No-
Trustee Fijan, Abstain- Trustee Offord. Motion carries.
c) Baseball Field Mechanical Shed:
1. The repairs to the siding is completed and a new door installed. The township will purchase
the supplies to paint building and repair roof.
a. Call for a motion to approve proposal from Prairie Green, Inc. in the amount of $820 for
labor only to repair roof, install new roof vents & drip edge and paint the building. Motion by
Trustee Kalas, second by Trustee Offord, No Discussion, All yes, Motion carries.
d) Football Announcers Tower:
1. The contractor has received the Building Permit issued by the Village of Homer Glen and is
scheduling the work force. Supervisor participated in a pre-construction meeting with the
general and sub-contractors. The phasing and timelines are estimated as follows: The masons
performing various building exterior repairs/infiltration/drainage issues, tuck-pointing,
lintel/sill work, cleaning of the masonry exterior and the application of a silane sealer will be
the first phase of the project. The masons have indicated that the brick is a unique size, not
easily matched/replaced. Therefore, they will be re-installing the original brick by
cleaning/removing leftover mortar at areas where brick removal is required of the repairs.
When necessary, some interior work may occur during phase one, otherwise the masonry
interior work/spalling repairs are scheduled afterward. Next the third floor siding removal,
installation of Tyvek & flashing, installation of new siding and new window installation will
occur. They will begin as soon as possible and are estimating the project should take
approximately 8-9 weeks under normal circumstances and with the cooperation of the weather.
3) Lamers Park: a) A temporary easement with Enbridge Energy was negotiated providing access to perform pipeline
work. An agreement was reviewed and executed and payment in the amount of $1,500 was
received.
4) Morris Park:
a) MI Homes/Lockport Park District/Homer Township property conveyance agreement proposal
1. Attorney Sramek has provided a revised proposal agreement for Board review and input.
Attorney Sramek indicated initially the exhibit was reviewed for changes and
recommendations. Supervisor Meyers stated she has received questions from the Board
and does not believe they are prepared to provide directives at this point. Motion by
Trustee Kalas to table this issue until further information is given, second by Trustee
Fijan, No Discussion, All yes-Motion carries.
B. Status Report Administration:
1) Administrative and Maintenance Department employees:
a) All employees have returned to normal work schedules while practicing Restore Illinois-Phase 3
guidelines. As is typical of Spring with an unusual rainy period, the maintenance crew was
challenged getting the properties landscaping up to standard, but, have recently made great strides.
b) Supervisor submitted recommendations for employee wage reviews.
1. Call for a motion approving Supervisor’s wage review recommendations for Maintenance
Department and Administrative employees. Motion approving Supervisor’s wage review
recommendations for Maintenance Department and Administrative employees by
Trustee Kalas, second by Trustee Kruczek. Discussion: Supervisor Meyers added the
recommendations made by the Supervisor include a general increase of .25 cents to .50
cents per hour in general and for three key employees in supervisory positions with
additional responsibilities and outstanding performance an increase of $1.00 to $1.50.
All yes-Motion carries.
2) Financial/Accounting:
a) Audit has begun. Please provide all requested paperwork to the Auditor ASAP.
Page 11 of 11
10. TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE REPORTS: A. Events Chairman John Kruczek: No report
B. Open Space Planning & Operations Chairman Tom Fijan
1) Chair recommends enlisting the services of the cement contractor who installed the concrete pads for
the two Morris Park sheds last year to install two cement pads at Trantina Dog Park to better facilitate
the installation and durability of the new shade structures.
a) Call for a motion authorizing the Supervisor to solicit a proposal and direct the installation of two
cement pads for the Trantina shade structures in an amount not to exceed a total cost of $5,000.
Motion authorizing the Supervisor to solicit a proposal and direct the installation of two
cement pads for the Trantina shade structures in an amount not to exceed a total cost of
$5,000. by Trustee Kruczek, second by Trustee Offord, No Discussion, All yes- Motion
carries. C. Parks & Recreation Chairmen Ed Kalas: Committee is reaching out to Upland Design concerning
Morris Park to proceed with site plan for a Grant. The Soccer Club will also be contacted
regarding moving equipment into their new storage facility. Trustee Kalas commented he is
pleased with the shed repair at the Complex.
D. Senior Citizen & Special Needs Advocacy Chairman George Offord: Trustee Offord reported with
the approval of his fellow committee members he hopes to have a July meeting.
E. Liaison Report: No Report
1) Military & Veteran Affairs Liaison Representative Karen Szynkowski
11. Old Business A. Covid 19-Gubernatorial Executive Orders:
1) Governor Pritzker has currently declared following the guidelines outlined in Phase 3 in the “Restore
Illinois” plan to reopen the State of Illinois. The Township Administrative offices are accessible to
the public by appointment only and masks must be worn. We continue to arrange for adequate
supplies and policies to be in compliance and become more publicly accessible.
12. New Business: None
13. Adjournment: Motion to adjourn at 9:05 pm by Trustee Kruczek, second by Trustee Kalas, No
Discussion, All yes-Motion carries.
Page 1 of 5
HOMER TOWNSHIP 14350 W. 151st Street, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Telephone: 708-301-0522
A G E N D A BOARD OF TRUSTEES COMBINED PLANNING/BUSINESS MEETING
June 15, 2020 at 7:00 P.M.
1. Call to order and Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
2. Roll Call
3. Matters from the Public (Non-Public Hearing items only): The moderator will ask for input from the public. Please provide your full name and the city/village of residence
for the public record. Comments are limited to a maximum of 3 minutes.
A. Open the floor for public input (Public Hearing subject participation takes place later on the agenda).
4. Accounting (Action/Motion may be requested): A. May, 2020 account payables and receivables
1) Invite a motion to approve May, 2020 account payables and receivables of the following funds: a) Equipment & Building
b) Founders Crossing Bond
c) Founders Crossing (Operating)
d) General Assistance
e) Open Space
f) Park Maintenance
g) Park Developer Contributions
h) Road and Bridge
i) Town
B. Line Item Transfer of Budget Appropriation: 1) None submitted
C. Request for funding contributions (Resolution HT 2013-06/10): 1) Jacqueline McFedries, Volunteer Recruiter on behalf of CASA of River Valley. Applicant is
requesting $1,000 for volunteer training, supervision and support of court appointed advocates to
represent abused/neglected children. In 2019, CASA provided services to 12 Homer Township
children.
a) Motion required.
Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the meeting & Public Hearings will be conducted by Zoom teleconference in accordance with Illinois Gubernatorial Executive Orders and the Open Meetings Act. The public may attend the meeting electronically using the Password: 449144
URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/s/89038832596?pwd=SFVTd1V6L2UwSm41SmJaWXVwcGF3UT09
Or by telephone: Dial: 1-312-626-6799, Webinar ID: 890 3883 2596, Password: 449144 Note: If you are participating by a landline telephone and wish to speak during the public input portion of the meeting, you must pre-register the landline phone number with the Township Clerk no later than 3p.m. on June 15, 2020. Email the Clerk at: [email protected] or phone at: 708-301-7042. An audio recording of the meeting will be available on the website: http://www.homertownship.com/
Page 2 of 5
5. Public Hearings: The Hearings will be conducted electronically due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the State of Illinois Executive
Orders limiting the capacity of all public gatherings to 10 people or less and prescribing social distancing
parameters. The public may participate electronically or telephonically using the above mentioned protocols.
After the moderator recognizes a participant to speak, please provide your full name and the city/village of
residence for the public record.
A. Call for a motion to commence the Public Hearings for the Homer Township/Lockport Heights Sanitary
District 2020 Community Development Block Grant Application; the Homer Township Road District
FY2020-21 Budget and Appropriation Ordinance and the Homer Township FY2020-21 Budget and
Appropriation Ordinance.
1) A 2020 Community Development Block Grant Application on behalf of the residents of the
Lockport Heights Sanitary District requesting grant funding in the amount of $441,750 to accomplish
the phased project replacing the existing undersized transite water mains as detailed in the project
summary and cost analysis.
a) Public participation.
b) Motion requested of the Board approving the ‘Exhibit B’ Resolution sanctioning the application
and authorizing its Chief Executive Officer to execute all documents necessary for the application
submittal.
2) Homer Township Road District FY2020-21 Tentative Budgets as presented and published:
Equipment & Building and Road & Bridge Funds for fiscal year April 1, 2020 thru March 31, 2021.
a) Public Participation
b) Call for motion to adopt Homer Township Road District Ordinance Number HTRD-06152020
BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION.
3) Homer Township FY2020-21 Tentative Budgets as presented and published: General Assistance;
Founders Operating; Founders Bonds; Open Space Operating; Park Maintenance; Park Developer
Contributions and Town Funds for fiscal year April 1, 2020 thru March 31, 2021.
a) Public Participation
b) Call for motion to adopt FY 2020-21 Homer Township Budget and Appropriation Ordinance
Number HT2020-0615-ORD1.
B. Call for a motion to close the Public Hearings and return to regular meeting agenda.
6. Highway Commissioner Mike DeVivo Report:
7. Assessor Karen Szynkowski Report:
8. Clerk Kathy Kruczek Report (Action/Motion may be requested): A. FOIA Report:
1) FOIA tracker report: May 2020
B. Minutes: (Note: Approved Township minutes available online at: www.homertownship.com)
1) Minutes presented for Board approval:
a) May 11, 2020 Regular Board Meeting Minutes
1. Motion required
b) Semi-annual review of Executive Session Minutes to release or withhold
1. Approved Executive Session Minutes of May 13, 2019
a. Motion required
9. Supervisor Pam Meyers Report (Action/Motion may be requested): A. Status Report Facilities/Property Management:
1) Senior Housing Facility:
a) All rental payments are current, all available units are occupied and lease agreements up-to-date.
b) Enbridge Energy closed the northern road access to the facility and began work on Township
property without notice. Upon investigation, Supervisor required that an access agreement and
payment was required. Therefore, the agreement was executed after the work began.
Page 3 of 5
2) Town Center Sports Field properties:
a) Baseball Field Scoreboard Replacements:
1. The Township Board approved a proposal to participate in a 3 way cost sharing agreement
with the Homer Athletic Club, the Village of Homer Glen and Homer Township to replace the
scoreboards on the baseball fields at Town Center Park. The Board directed their Supervisor
to solicit a proposal for the project through the Naperville Job Order Contracting agreement.
In accordance with permitting standards required by the Village of Homer Glen and the
Daktronics scoreboard manufacturer warranty specifications, a structural engineer was enlisted
to facilitate scope of work and proposal preparation.
Upon engineering review, it was determined that the existing footing foundations and support
posts on the current scoreboards could not be reused on the new scoreboards as they did not
meet the established permitting, warranty and safety requirements. Therefore, a proposal
prepared by Robe, Inc. (JOC contractor) includes the labor & equipment necessary for the
demolition/removal of all four existing scoreboards, footing foundations and I-beams;
installation of four new scoreboards, footings, I-beams, electrical connections; programming
& training personnel on use of scoreboards; required construction safety fencing and
restoration work as identified in the complete proposal provided.
a. Call for a motion directing the Supervisor to present the proposal in the amount of
$85, 926.49 to the Village of Homer Glen and Homer Athletic Club for their respective
approval to contribute one third each of the project costs.
b. Call for a motion that upon said cost sharing authorizations by the Village and HAC, to
direct the Supervisor to execute any cost sharing agreements, required documents, proceed
with securing the permits and scheduling the work.
b) HAC Facility Use of Town Center & Culver Park in light of Covid pandemic:
1. Due to the outbreak of the pandemic HAC recreational programming was canceled. However,
now we have moved into Governor Pritzker’s Restore Illinois Phase 3, which enables youth
sports reopening with specific guidelines and limitations. The Supervisor and HAC President
have been collaborating on the development of potential safety compliant procedures that
would enable HAC to salvage the balance of its originally planned annual programming.
Together we believe that a usage agreement can be developed in compliance with the
Governor’s directives at this time. HAC will assume full responsibility for enforcing the terms
of the agreement which will require a one-time, exclusive waiver of the Homer Township
Sports Policy regarding residency requirements. Basically, while the HAC organization
overall does meet the outlined residency requirements by submitted rosters, the majority of the
resident participation rosters comes from the recreational programming. Considering those
scheduled games have expired, the remaining games are for travel teams that provide a lower
number of resident participants (estimating about 76% residents).
a. Call for a motion directing the Supervisor to draft an updated Facility Usage Agreement
reflecting the guidelines of the Restore Illinois phased reopening and providing HAC a
singular, exclusive covid related waiver of the Township’s residency requirement and
delegating the Supervisor the authority to execute said agreement conditioned on legal and
insurance review/endorsement.
c) Baseball Field Mechanical Shed:
1. The repairs to the siding is completed and a new door installed. The township will purchase
the supplies to paint building and repair roof.
a. Call for a motion to approve proposal from Prairie Green, Inc. in the amount of $820 for
labor only to repair roof, install new roof vents & drip edge and paint the building.
Page 4 of 5
d) Football Announcers Tower:
1. The contractor has received the Building Permit issued by the Village of Homer Glen and is
scheduling the work force. Supervisor participated in a pre-construction meeting with the
general and sub-contractors. The phasing and timelines are estimated as follows: The masons
performing various building exterior repairs/infiltration/drainage issues, tuck-pointing,
lintel/sill work, cleaning of the masonry exterior and the application of a silane sealer will be
the first phase of the project. The masons have indicated that the brick is a unique size, not
easily matched/replaced. Therefore, they will be re-installing the original brick by
cleaning/removing leftover mortar at areas where brick removal is required of the repairs.
When necessary, some interior work may occur during phase one, otherwise the masonry
interior work/spalling repairs are scheduled afterward. Next the third floor siding removal,
installation of Tyvek & flashing, installation of new siding and new window installation will
occur. They will begin as soon as possible and are estimating the project should take
approximately 8-9 weeks under normal circumstances and with the cooperation of the weather.
3) Lamers Park: a) A temporary easement with Enbridge Energy was negotiated providing access to perform pipeline
work. An agreement was reviewed and executed and payment in the amount of $1,500 was
received.
4) Morris Park:
a) MI Homes/Lockport Park District/Homer Township property conveyance agreement proposal
1. Attorney Sramek has provided a revised proposal agreement for Board review and input.
B. Status Report Administration:
1) Administrative and Maintenance Department employees:
a) All employees have returned to normal work schedules while practicing Restore Illinois-Phase 3
guidelines. As is typical of Spring with an unusual rainy period, the maintenance crew was
challenged getting the properties landscaping up to standard, but, have recently made great strides.
b) Supervisor submitted recommendations for employee wage reviews.
1. Call for a motion approving Supervisor’s wage review recommendations for Maintenance
Department and Administrative employees.
2) Financial/Accounting:
a) Audit has begun. Please provide all requested paperwork to the Auditor ASAP.
10. TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE REPORTS (Action/Motion may be requested):
A. Events Chairman John Kruczek
B. Open Space Planning & Operations Chairman Tom Fijan
1) Chair recommends enlisting the services of the cement contractor who installed the concrete pads for
the two Morris Park sheds last year to install two cement pads at Trantina Dog Park to better facilitate
the installation and durability of the new shade structures.
a) Call for a motion authorizing the Supervisor to solicit a proposal and direct the installation of two
cement pads for the Trantina shade structures in an amount not to exceed a total cost of $5,000.
C. Parks & Recreation Chairmen Ed Kalas
D. Senior Citizen & Special Needs Advocacy Chairman George Offord
E. Liaison Report: (Action/Motion may be requested): 1) Military & Veteran Affairs Liaison Representative Karen Szynkowski
11. Old Business (Action/Motion may be requested):
A. Covid 19-Gubernatorial Executive Orders: 1) Governor Pritzker has currently declared following the guidelines outlined in Phase 3 in the “Restore
Illinois” plan to reopen the State of Illinois. The Township Administrative offices are accessible to
the public by appointment only and masks must be worn. We continue to arrange for adequate
supplies and policies to be in compliance and become more publicly accessible.
Page 5 of 5
12. New Business (Action/Motion may be requested):
13. Adjournment
NEXT SCHEDULED MEETING*
*HOMER TOWN BOARD REGULAR BUSINESS/PLANNING
*Date: July 13, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
*Meeting Location: Township Hall, 16057 S. Cedar Rd, Lockport, IL 60491
*This meeting is subject to change based on State of Illinois directives pertaining to Covid 19 pandemic. Please check Homer Township website
and/or July 13, 2020 posted agendas for future updates.
NOTICE UNDER THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
In accordance with the requirements of title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ("ADA"), Homer Township will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in its services, programs, or activities.
Employment: The Township does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its hiring or employment practices and complies with all regulations promulgated by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission under title I of the ADA.
Effective Communication: The Township will generally, upon request, provide appropriate aids and services leading to effective communication for qualified persons with disabilities so they can participate equally in Homer Township programs, services, and activities, including qualified sign language interpreters, documents in Braille, and other ways of making information and communications accessible to people who have speech, hearing, or vision impairments.
Modifications to Policies and Procedures: The Township will make all reasonable modifications to policies and programs to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy all of its programs, services, and activities. For example, individuals with service animals are welcomed in Township offices, even where pets are generally prohibited.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity of Homer Township, should contact the office of the Township Clerk Kathy Kruczek, 14350 W. 151st Street, Homer Glen, IL 708-301-7042 as soon as possible but no later than 48 hours before the scheduled event.
The ADA does not require Homer Township to take any action that would fundamentally alter the nature of its programs or services, or impose an undue financial or administrative burden. Homer Township will not place a surcharge on a particular individual with a disability or any group of individuals with disabilities to cover the cost of providing auxiliary aids/services or reasonable modifications of policy, such as retrieving items from locations that are open to the public but are not accessible to persons who use wheelchairs.
Complaints that a program, service, or activity of Homer Township is not accessible to persons with disabilities should be directed to the Township
Supervisor, Pam Meyers, 14350 W. 151st Street, Homer Glen, IL 708-301-4534.