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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: k.kruczek@homertownship.com 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.