06/02/2003MINUTES
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
June 2, 2003
The village board met as a committee of the whole in the board room of the village hall at 8:32 p.m.
following the regular board meeting on Monday, June 2, 2003. In attendance were:
Village Board Staff
Steven Harris, Mayor Robert D. Franz, Village Manager
Robert Benton, Trustee John Sliozis, Chief of Police
Jerry Kayne, Trustee Robert Fialkowski, Director of Finance
Harriet Rosenthal, Trustee Barbara Little, Director of Public Works/Engineering
William Seiden, Trustee Diane Mikula, Assistant to the Village Manager
Vernon Swanson, Trustee
Matthew Wylie, Trustee
Chamber of Commerce Tourism Proposal
Phil Stamm, General Manager of Hyatt Deerfield, and Steve Robinson, President and Vicki Case,
Executive Director of the DBR Chamber of Commerce were in attendance to follow up on their written
request for financial assistance from the village to promote Deerfield's shopping, dining, lodging and
other tourism related service providers. The tourism committee believes it is in the village's best
interests to invest some of its hotel room tax receipts into attracting people to the community. The
total cost of projects requested amounts to $271,100 of which Deerfield's portion would be $214,169.
Board members' questions ranged from why should the village contribute at all to what specific
projects will offer the best return on the money spent. It was noted that several neighboring
communities contribute to their respective chambers. The board asked for more details on those
allocations.
It was emphasized that, if payments were made to the chamber, they should be tied to specific projects
or activities and that there must be some way of measuring the return. Mayor Harris suggested that the
chamber return to the board describing plans for spending: $25,000, $50,000 and $75,000. The board
can then decide what amount, if any, they can justify. If an allocation is approved, there would then be
an intense review in one year to see if further contributions are warranted.
Waukeaan/Osterman Intersection Improvement
Members of the safety council were present to review with the board their report on safety concerns
relating to the scheduled intersection improvement at Waukegan Road and Osterman Avenue. They
believe that, as designed, the intersection will not be safe for pedestrians and bicyclists. Their primary
concern is the reduced sidewalk on the southwest corner. Some trustees agreed that, far too often,
public improvements seemed to be planned to help move traffic but at the expense of pedestrians.
Staff noted that the board has reviewed this project on several occasions. It was always understood
that it is a difficult improvement given the angle of the intersection and right of way limitations. The
project has already been bid and is scheduled for construction this summer assuming the remaining
right of way is acquired. A report distributed to the board prior to the meeting responded to the
specific issues raised by the safety council.
Committee of the Whole
June 2, 2003
Page 2
After much discussion on the need to focus on pedestrian issues, staff was directed to retain the
services of one of the consultants recommended by the safety council. Staff will continue its efforts to
secure the necessary ROW but, in the meantime, will have the project reviewed by another engineer.
Thursdav Niaht Plaza Entertainment
Deerfield Square has a number of Thursday evenings booked this summer for entertainment in the
plaza. However, due to funding limitations, there are several Thursdays open. In order to create some
continuity and consistency, it has been suggested that the village supplement the entertainment plans.
Cost per event is approximately $2500.
Some board members opposed the idea citing recent budget constraints and the precedent it sets for
expectations that the village will step in when funds are low. Others felt that the events give
recognition to the community and its businesses. They argued that the village initiated the Thursday
night entertainment sessions and that they have always been well received. If other areas of the village
center want to sponsor events, the village should consider matching funds for them as well.
The manager was directed to pursue four to five additional Thursday night events at Deerfield Square
at a cost of $10,000.
Centennial Street Clock
The board reviewed the proposal from Gerard Fritsen for purchasing a streetclock as part of the
centennial celebration. There was little support for the concept with most trustees believing, instead,
that money should be spent on a sculpture as recommended by the Fine Arts Commission. It was the
consensus that $25,000 should be allocated for this purpose and the Fine Arts Commission directed to
proceed.
The meeting adjourned at 10:32 p.m.
Minutes prepared by:
AN
Ro rt D. Franz, Village Manag