Members present:
Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Also present:
Chris Salatas, Town Manager; David Westland, Attorney; Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Mr. Swets called for nomination for the office of President of the Town Council.
Mr. Pondinas nominated Mr. Blazak. Mr. Blazak did not accept the nomination.
Mr. Aurelio nominated Mr. Swets for the position.
No other nominations for President.
Mr. Swets called for a vote.
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – Mr. Pondinas
Motion carried, 4-1
Mr. Swets called for a nomination for Vice-President of the Town Council.
Mr. Aurelio nominated Mr. Schilling.
No other nominations for Vice-President.
Mr. Swets called for a vote.
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously.
Via email
From: Bill Manous
Date: Wed, Jan 12, 2022 at 5:39 PM
Subject: Agenda item 7 A
To: bethhernandez.clerk@gmail.com
Hello, My name is Bill Manousopoulos, I live at 10011 Parrish Avenue, and I'd like the follow question read and answered into the record of this meeting. My question is under new business 7 A. Is there a reason each professional service agreements are not listed separately as in years past?
Mr. Swets asked for a motion for Westland and Bennett as the Attorney Services for the Town for 2022.
Mr. Schilling made the motion and Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
No Questions and/or Comments
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Swets asked for a motion for Adam Dekker as the Attorney for Plan Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals and Board of Safety for 2022.
Mr. Blazak made the motion and Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion.
No Questions and/or Comments
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Swets asked for a motion for Haas and Associates to be retained for miscellaneous engineering projects around the Town for 2022.
Mr. Aurelio made the motion and Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Questions and/or Comments
Mr. Pondinas asked how much of an increase was there in the contracts for 2022. Mr. Westland stated he could say that for his it was 2.3%. Mr. Pondinas noted that the proposals were almost the same as last year.
No additional Questions and/or Comments
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Swets stated that there were several proposals for Financial Advisors for the Town of St. John.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to accept the proposal from Cender/Dalton, as Municipal Advisors to the Town of St. John – generally, the Redevelopment Commission, the Water and Sanitary Districts and Special Projects as directed by the Town.
Mr. Aurelio added to his motion to accept the proposal from Baker Tilly, as Financial Advisors to the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office, which would include any special projects as directed by the Clerk-Treasurer.
Mr. Aurelio added that his motion adds authority to the Town Manager to sign an agreement with Cender/Dalton Municipal Advisors and Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors to effectuate the intent of this motion.
Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Question and/or Comments
Mr. Pondinas questioned why another accountant was needed to come in and work with Baker Tilly. They have been with the Town for two (2) years, and they have had no help. He saw it on an email before the meeting.
Mr. Swets responded that they decided to make a change in who handles the general financial for the Town. There was a committee that did some interviews, and they are recommending Cender/Dalton for the position.
Mr. Pondinas asked who was on the committee. Mr. Swets responded Mr. Aurelio and Mr. Blazak. Mr. Pondinas wanted to know why all Town Council members were not given notice or partake in it.
Mr. Salatas stated it was a policy decision by the Town Council to look for additional financial advisors and it is done at the beginning of every year.
Mr. Swets apologized for not informing all members of the decision to look for additional advisors.
Mr. Pondinas questioned the additional costs involved with another financial advisor. Mr. Swets responded that they will only be at the meeting when they are needed, same as Baker Tilly, on an as-needed basis.
Mr. Westland suggested this become two separate motions so that Mr. Pondinas was given the courtesy and could vote his conscience on both motions.
Mr. Aurelio re-motioned to accept the proposal from Cender/Dalton, Municipal Advisors; as Financial Advisors to the Town of St. John generally, the St. John Redevelopment Commission, the Water and Sanitary Districts and Special Projects as directed by the Town.
Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
No additional Questions and/or Comments
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – Mr. Pondinas
Motion carried, 4 – 1
Mr. Aurelio re-motioned to accept the proposal from Baker Tilly, Municipal Advisors; as Financial Advisors to the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office, which would include any special projects as directed by the Clerk-Treasurer. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
No additional Questions and/or Comments
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Westland added that the motion authorized the Town Manager to sign the agreement with Cender/Dalton which is satisfactory to sign, but select the appropriate agreement that is reflective of the motion passed, from the ones sent by Baker Tilly.
• Board of Zoning Appeals –
John Kennedy, Drago Popovic, Mark Lareau
All three are being Reappointed
• Contractor’s Board
John Gill, Steve Kozel, Richard Hoover
Terms expiring and being Reappointed
• Economic Development Commission- all are only 1-year terms
John DeYoung, Kelly Stoming, Rob Godoy, Joseph Barry, David Beezhold, Scott Bell and Emily Warren
• Park Board
Patrick Connelly
Term expiring and Reappointed
• Redevelopment Commission
Stacey Daniell
• Sanitary Board
Kim Krull
Term expiring and Reappointed
• Safety Board
Rob Kmetz, Steve DeJong
Terms expiring and Reappointed
• Waterworks Board – all are only 1-year terms
Nick Furtek, Ken Gembala, Bill Manousopoulos
Terms expiring and Reappointed
• Stormwater Board
Joe Moore, Bill Manousopoulos
Bob Valois will serve as an advisor on that Board
Mr. Aurelio made the motion to accept the Appointments to the Boards and Commissions, as given. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
No additional Questions and/or Comments
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously.
Town Council Liaisons to Boards and Commissions
• Mr. Schilling – Safety Board, Chamber of Commerce and Lake County Solid Waste
• Mr. Aurelio – Economic Development Committee and Park Board
• Mr. Swets – Safety Village and Northwest Regional Planning Commission
• Mr. Blazak – Plan Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals
• Mr. Pondinas – Waterworks, Sanitary Board and Stormwater Board
Mr. Blazak made a motion to accept the Town Council Liaisons to Boards and Commissions as read. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion.
No additional Questions and/or Comments
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously.
Jan Barry, Recording Secretary
Town Council
Members present:
Mr. Aurelio (Virtual), Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Also present:
Mr. Westland, Attorney; Mr. Salatas, Town Manager; Ms. Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Board Action
Mr. Blazak made a motion to defer Minutes until the next council meeting. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion.
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion to defer carried unanimously
Johnny Boersma
11930 W. 103rd Court, SJ
Mr. Boersma stated, 1.5 years ago my Foundation was awarded the land for the Veteran’s Memorial at Civic Park. Lots of questions from lots of people on his DMs and text messages. They are mainly asking what is going on. He answers that it has been 1 ½ years and he still doesn’t have a lease. It was approved. He’s gone through all the steps. He has had it deeded and it has been surveyed. He did everything. He reminded Mr. Swets that his main concern was the flame and how much it was going to cost the Town.
{Mr. Swets interjected that he had other concerns, too}
Mr. Boersma continued that he cannot build on the land unless he has a lease. He believes the agenda for honoring our Veterans is very important.
He asked again, why has it been 1.5 years that I’ve not had a lease?
Mr. Swets stated he had no idea.
Mr. Boersma stated, he didn’t think he did. It was to be fast-tracked back then.
Mr. Swets asked if Mr. Boersma was ready to begin?
Mr. Boersma stated he was waiting for the lease. It’s been 1.5 years, of course he’s ready, it’s been ready. He can’t have contractors on that land digging it up unless he has a lease. So he needs a lease signed, secured from our Town Attorney and from me. He just wants to know why he doesn’t have it yet.
Mr. Swets stated they would look into it, find out why and get it to him as soon as we can make those arrangements.
Mr. Boersma asked if it would be three more months or was it something that could be done in a week and a half.
Mr. Swets answered he hid not have those answers.
Mr. Boersma reminded him to keep in mind what he was holding up.
Tom Hocker
12344 Forrest Drive, SJ
Mr. Hocker shared with the Council that he is a photographer. He has embarked on a project in the last year to document life in St. John. Find out what this town is like, its character, changes, what the past has been, what the future might hold for the Town of St. John.
I’ve already worked with several stakeholders in town. I’ve photographed many. I’ve donated my time. As an end product, a showing of these photographs from grants or sponsorships is needed to do some type of public exhibit.
His goal is to prepare an archival set of prints about this moment that would be available for 100 years.
An opportunity has presented itself involving the Town in terms of grants given by the Indiana Arts Commission for non-profits and communities. Grants are available of up to $5000 requiring no matching funds, one-time basis for art involvement in the community.
In talking to Beth Hernandez about what a proposal might look like. Applications end in about 6 weeks.
Conversations now are needed with approvals. He’s not sure he’d have time to get an application together for the coming fiscal year. But this is a start.
He has lots of material to represent the Town, he’s made lots of visits, he’s stopped to talk to people for ways of life portraits, etc.
Beth Hernandez has a flash drive with 50 some pictures on it.
His proposal for the $5000 is:
He will have further conversations with Beth Hernandez, as to logistics for a public display.
The Grant from the Indiana Arts Commission would be to the Town and then the Town would appropriate it for the different activities outlined in the Grant.
Mr. Hocker stated this was just a bare outline of what he envisions.
Mr. Swets stated it was a good idea for a meeting with Mr. Salatas. He asked Mr. Hocker to call Mr. Salatas tomorrow to set up a date.
Public Comment via Email
#1 - Sofia Beaudry
1490 93rd Avenue, SJ
Gentlemen,
I would like to express my disappointment in the behavior of Councilman Aurelio and Town Councilman President Gerry Swets.
It was apparent watching the Park Board meeting on January 18 that the Park Board members (who are not only appointed by this council, but also residents of St John), expressed their desire to keep Councilman Wayne Pondinas in the role of Liaison. The council knew of their desire as the park board President spoke at a previous council meeting on this matter. I find it to be extremely disappointing that no one on the town council listened to their request. In addition, I found Mr. Aurelio’s behavior and disinterest in what the park board had to say disheartening. A true, dedicated leader would have taken the desire of the park board into consideration and brought their request back to the rest of the council members, which he blatantly refused to do.
After the debacle of the park board meeting, I decided to watch the town council meeting from January 12 to see for myself what transpired. Mr. Swets clearly stated that he left the Liaison appointments to the committee, then went on social media stating that was "fake news" and "twisting of the facts". From the previously recorded meetings, this is simply not true and is blatantly misleading residents.
It is obvious that some members of the council need a lesson in transparency and decorum.
Respectfully,
Sofia Beaudry
1490 93rd Avenue
#2 - Bill Manousopoulos
10011 Parrish Ave
I’d like to have the following read into the record
It’s a sad day for open and transparent government when it takes investigative reporting and constituent complaints to have meeting minutes released. These minutes are a recap for anyone who can’t make a meeting. This body was elected to act in the best interest of residents. So far We the people have been met with sarcasm, belittling and a we know what’s best for you attitude. It is to late for you to start doing your job WE elected you to do and now we will replace you starting in May. St John deserves better
#3 - Jeff Slaven
9153 E. Springhill Dr., SJ
To whom it may concern:
Why would the Saint John Town council be trying to form any new committee’ or boards when they clearly cannot manage the existing minutes for all of the boards that this governing body is responsible to ensure is competed and made available to the public.
Will all 5 Town Council members be involved with reviewing applications, interviews and the final selection of the replacement Town Manager?
What steps are being taken to ensure that Mr Pondinas is receiving ALL communication that involves the governing of Saint John and not receiving untimely emails prior to meetings or decisions or 2 man committees being made?
#4 - Michael Schaffer
No address provided
January 25, 2022
Town Council Members,
I have reviewed the job posting for a new Town Manager, and read that it stated “Interim or Permanent”. On, November 18, 2021, I put in a FOIA request asking for the invoice for enlisting Mr. Tom DeGiulio to assist in the process of finding a new Town Manager. He was hired on February 2, 2021 at a rate of $150.00 per hour. I received a response back that “no record exist”.
My questions are as follows:
1. If Mr. DeGiulio was hired for recruiting a Town Manager, why was there no fees submitted for payment?
2. Are there plans in the making to hire Mr. DeGiulio as Interim or Permanent Town Manager in lieu of payment for services rendered.
Thank You,
Michael Schaffer
End of Public Comment via Email
Mr. Swets gave an update on the Town Manager position. The job has been posted. He has received some emails, phone calls, and correspondence indicating some interest in the position. The job was listed as Interim or Permanent, to keep the opportunity open to see what the best position for the Town is. The Town Council will interview to go through the process and prospects. All 5 of the Town Council members will work together as a group.
The deadline for the initial posting is February 4, 2022. Our goal and hope is to have some applicants by the beginning of February to start the interviewing process and then move forward from there.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
Mr. Pondinas stated the Engineers did a water study in June 2021, on how we could improve the hydraulics of the water system.
They stated it would cost approximately $160,000 for 1350-feet of 12” water main to the North. This area is part of the plan for Astoria.
He was wondering if the developer is planning to put 12” water mains in?
Mr. Herbers from Diamond Peak development was present for the meeting. He stated he was unaware of 12” water mains.
Mr. Pondinas explained that the same paper he had was given to Mr. Mendoza from the Building and Planning Department. Mr. Pondinas stated that this was a way for the Town to save money, to have the Developer pay that fee. Mr. Pondinas and suggested and Mr. Herbers agreed that Diamond Peak should reach out to the Town Engineer and Mr. Mendoza.
Mr. Aurelio asked if he talked to Mr. Mendoza and stated it needed to be checked into as he doesn’t want a developer paying for something the Town should pay for and he doesn’t want the Town paying for something the Developer should pay for.
Mr. Swets suggested they defer Ordinance 1753.
Mr. Salatas stated that this is just for zoning, we will get into engineering details with Mr. Kraus during the platting process. This is just for engineering where they will start laying out the water lines.
Mr. Pondinas commented he did not want to hold up the process.
Mr. Schilling stated they must tie into the water main somewhere along Parrish.
Mr. Aurelio asked if they approve tonight can they still see if the Town or the Developer pays the $160,000 later.
Mr. Salatas stated this was just to determine Zoning on the property. The subdivision plans are just conceptual at this stage. They will move forward through the platting process. During the platting process is when you will get into those fine details. Mr. Kraus will review their plans against our plans accordingly. Mr. Kraus has been a part of this water study along with Haas & Associates.
Mr. Westland stated that Mr. Salatas is correct. When they lay out the subdivision will be when those details are ironed out. Pipes and detentions will be discussed at that time. It is up to the Developer to meet the Town Ordinances. If he must put in a 12” waterline to meet Ordinances, then that is what he has to do. This all gets addressed at the time of Primary Subdivision approval.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to Consider Ordinance No. 1753, an ordinance rezoning certain property known as Astoria, from Open Space to RC-2 PUD (Residential Conservation Planned Unit Development).
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Consider Ordinance No. 1753, an ordinance rezoning certain property known as Astoria, from Open Space to RC-2 PUD (Residential Conservation Planned Unit Development) on second reading.
Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
Mr. Pondinas stated he had the same question as the last item. The Engineer said they need 1000-feet of 12” water main on Calumet Avenue from 101st south at a cost of approximately $120,000. Mr. Pondinas stated that Mr. Mendoza said there are paired villas in the back they want to change to cottage homes. Mr. Pondinas stated he was glad it is going back to the Plan Commission.
Mr. Doug Rettig approached the Council and stated that the project does have a couple paired villas as well as cottage homes. There has been no talk of changing the paired villas in the back. The Developer is also aware of the water main extensions.
Mr. Swets stated he was not satisfied with the paired villas. He thinks we need to look at single-family dwellings, as the product. He is recommending not only as a deferral but have the Plan Commission look at changing the paired villas into cottage homes, single-family.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion for Ordinance No. 1752, an ordinance rezoning certain property known as St. John Commons, a mixed use development, from R-1 to PUD (Planned Unit Development).
Mr. Blazak made a motion to defer Ordinance No. 1752, an ordinance rezoning certain property known as St. John Commons, a mixed use development, from R-1 to PUD (Planned Unit Development) and send back to the Plan Commission to change from duplexes to cottage homes.
Motion failed for lack of a second to the motion.
Mr. Swets asked what the pleasure of the Board is?
Mr. Pondinas stated he would second the motion, so it gets taken care of and there is no further commotion later on in the process.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
{Mr. Aurelio stated his audio cut out for a period; Mr. Swets repeated the motions in place.}
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion to defer carried unanimously
Mr. Salatas stated that the Town had selected American Structurepoint as the consultant for the Cline Avenue Extension project. The document before you is a standard INDOT approved document. Mr. Salatas stated that the document shows that compensation is 20% paid by the Town over several years as the project moves along.
Mr. Wolverton gave a history of American Structurepoint since being selected as the Town consultant. He also stated that there are additional funds from the Federal Government through NERPSI. He said that Mr. Blazak and Mr. Salatas participated in a Zoom meeting at TROC helping to leverage Federal Funds for this project beginning this fiscal year. This is an 80% pay by NERPSI. Some of the funds are available to be spent before May 2022.
This is a 4-year project due to all the engineering and a substantial amount of documentation that must take place due to federal regulations. Mr. Wolverton added they would work with the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office to refine the process for and the amount of anticipated spending.
Mr. Pondinas asked when groundbreaking for the project would take place. Mr. Wolverton stated Spring 2026.
Mr. Blazak stated there is so much work to do before getting the environmental situation and approvals out of the way. Nothing will hit the ground until at least 2025.
Mr. Wolverton stated that The National Environmental Protection Act document is an environmental assessment and one of the highest requirements because this is a new alignment – meaning undisturbed ground – which could take 2 – 2 ½ years to get it all completed. Mr. Wolverton defined “alignment” as where the new roadway is going to go. In this case it is going through farmland from 93rd Avenue to 101st Street, which is about 9/10 of a mile.
Mr. Schilling asked how long the roadway will take. Mr. Wolverton stated they will have to work with the Town representative and monitor funding. Construction is in the magnitude of $10 million, largest project for NIRPC to take on in one year.
Mr. Wolverton envisions that this will be a 2-Phase project. Phase 1 in Spring 2026 maybe start with intersections at both ends. There is also a ditch there which will necessitate the construction of a bridge. Approach work and earthwork will need to be done. He envisions letting the earthwork settle for about a year and then coming back and putting the roadway in. Mr. Swets stated it would probably be 2 – 3 Phases for NERPSI money to come in, as well. Mr. Wolverton agreed.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to Consider a contract with American Structurepoint to provide engineering services for the Cline Avenue Extension Project.
Mr. Pondinas asked to have Item M from the Agenda moved to this point before they vote on Item C.
He stated that due to Mr. Kennedy being on Plan Commission and BZA and is an employee of American Structurepoint.
The Town Council agreed to move Item M to a vote before Item C.
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to Approve a Uniform Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement for John Kennedy. Mr. Kennedy is currently a member of the Plan Commission, sits on the BZA and is an employee of American Structurepoint.
Mr. Blazak made the motion to Approve a Uniform Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement for John Kennedy and authorize the Town Council President to sign same, Mr. Schilling seconded the motion.
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to Approve a contract with American Structurepoint to provide engineering services for the Cline Avenue Extension Project.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to Approve a contract with American Structurepoint to provide engineering services for the Cline Avenue Extension Project and have the Town Council President sign same. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
Mr. Schilling made a comment that this will connect the Town. Opening this road up will give a main thoroughfare to US30. The problem in southern Lake County is that the main thoroughfares have never gone through.
A discussion centered on the growth, expansion and costs for the need for infrastructure to improve and/or be added.
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – Mr. Pondinas
Motion Approved 4 - 1
Ms. Hernandez stated this was a list of invoices provided for goods, services and projects that were approved or rendered in 2021 but invoiced in 2022. The total amount of the encumbrances is $840,787.75. All encumbrances must be included as part of the year-end close.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
Mr. Blazak asked if everything is included in this or will we have to do this again.
Ms. Hernandez stated we cannot do this again; it is part of the year-end close. She added that all invoices to be encumbered must have been received by January 14, 2022, to meet deadlines to allow the Town Council time to review.
Mr. Aurelio commented that the Town is on a cash basis vs an accrual way of accounting.
Ms. Hernandez answered, yes.
Mr. Aurelio asked then does that mean this is not going to be able to accure the first year into the following year? So, the cash basis makes it like the “final bite of the apple.”
Ms. Hernandez stated, correct.
Mr. Swets stated he had two invoices, given to him tonight. One was for CDW, and the other was for Dell Marketing. The CDW invoice has a date of 12/28/21 as received. The Dell Marketing invoice has a date of 12/06/21 on it. A discussion was held as to the dates on the invoices and when they were received and processed in the Clerk-Treasurer’s office. Comments were made regarding following a timeline so items could be processed within an acceptable timeframe and still meet the set deadlines. Ms. Hernandez asked Kathy to go to the office and get the information requested.
Mr. Swets stated they would continue with agenda items and return to this at the end of the meeting, regarding clarification of the dates. He stated he had no problem with the requests for deadlines for the encumbrances. Ms. Hernadez stated they would clarify the dates. Mr. Swets added they would have to deal with these two invoices with 2022 money. If the Council was OK with that.
Board Action
Mr. Swets called for a motion to Authorize for Encumbrance of Funds from 2021 to 2022.
Mr. Schilling made the motion to Consider Authorize for Encumbrance of Funds from 2021 to 2022, Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously
Ms. Hernandez stated this was for one final repayment to CCMG
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
Mr. Pondinas stated this was the money we got, but we couldn’t use it.
Mr. Swets stated that yes, this was for projects we couldn’t complete under project guidelines.
Board Action
Mr. Swets called for a motion to Adopt Resolution No. 2022-01-26, a resolution authorizing a Transfer of Appropriation – Civil for 2021.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to Consider Resolution No. 2022-01-26, a resolution authorizing a Transfer of Appropriation – Civil for 2021. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion approved unanimously
Ms. Hernandez stated they have 3 (three) Funds that have $0 (zero) balances. They are requesting to mark those Dormant.
She stated they also have 1 (one) Fund the Levy Excess Fund that currently has a balance of $733.00, they are requesting to transfer that balance to the General Fund, then mark it Dormant.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to Adopt Resolution No. 2022-01-26A, a resolution abolishing dormant funds and transferring the remaining balances to the General Fund.
Mr. Blazak made the motion to Adopt Resolution No. 2022-01-26A, a resolution abolishing dormant funds and transferring the remaining balances to the General Fund, Mr. Schilling seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously
Ms. Hernandez stated this Resolution is for stale dated checks that are outstanding and unpaid, for a period of 2 or more years. They total $20,159.83.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Board Action
Mr. Swets called for a motion to Consider Resolution No. 2022-01-26B, a resolution to void stale date checks that are outstanding for a period of two or more years.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to Adopt Resolution No. 2022-01-26B, a resolution to void stale date checks that are outstanding for a period of two or more years, Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously
Ms. Hernandez stated this Resolution was for customers that have moved, and the accounts are paid in full and no longer active.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Board Action
Mr. Swets called for a motion to Consider approval and authorization for the Clerk-Treasurer to delete inactive, obsolete, or other certain utility customer accounts.
Mr. Schilling made the motion to Authorize the Clerk-Treasurer to delete inactive, obsolete, or other certain utility customer accounts and Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously
Mr. Westland reminded the Town Council that on December 29, 2021, Ordinance 1750 was approved. Sometime after adoption or during the adoption process, there were 2 (two) reasonable interpretations as to the intent of Ordinance 1750. Mr. Westland stated he is proposing Ordinance 1754 to clear up any ambiguity from Ordinance 1750. It is the same as what is currently in your code, except for two items, Items B and D. Ordinance 1754 verbatim adopts the intent of the Safety Board’s recommendation to you.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
Mr. Pondinas stated this is the 3rd time this has come before us on Dec. 22, and we raised some questions about it, the Paramedics weren’t included in it. On December 29th there was a need to pass it and there were some problems with it. Town employees have their vacation allotment pro-rated, so during the calendar year in which they celebrate their 1-year anniversary.
Mr. Pondinas offered the following example:
An example of that might be November, On your I-year anniversary you receive 1 day of vacation. On the fire side if you celebrate your vacation in November you get a 4-day or a 5-day vacation, that must be taken before the end of the year. So, it is not uniform or balanced. I think it should be changed.
Mr. Swets commented that what you’re saying is that more changes need to be made to this?
Mr. Pondinas responded is it fair for firemen to get 5 days’ vacation if the same scenario is played out – where the rest of the Town employees get 1 vacation day, if their anniversary date is in November.
Mr. Aurelio asked if that meant they were getting 5 times more vacation days than anyone else?
Mr. Swets stated he would defer to Mr. Westland.
Mr. Westland stated he did honestly not know.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to Consider Ordinance No. 1754, an ordinance amending Ordinances 1696 and 1750, Personnel Policy Manual.
Mr. Pondinas made a motion to defer Ordinance No. 1754, an ordinance amending Ordinances 1696 and 1750, Personnel Policy Manual until next month. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Swets
Nays – Mr. Schilling
Motion carried 4 – 1 to defer to next month
The Ordinance would insert it into the Zoning Ordinance so vape shops can be regulated. It is a Special exception in the US 41 and 231 Overlay District. So, applicants would have to come before the BZA. We can’t ban them, but it allows within the commercial district, as a C2 and C4. This gets Vape Shops off of the main streets unless you have them come before the BZAand they are granted permission.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
Mr. Pondinas asked about the vape chop next to the Transmission Shop.
Mr. Salatas stated it would be grandfathered in, as it wasn’t a restricted business when he moved in there.
Mr. Aurelio commented he was thankful that this was done, as he doesn’t want to see vape shops popping up all over the overlay district.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to Consider Ordinance No. 1755, an ordinance amending Town Zoning Ordinance No. 1483 regarding the regulation of tobacco and vaping products
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to Consider Ordinance No. 1755, an ordinance amending Town Zoning Ordinance No. 1483 regarding the regulation of tobacco and vaping products on first reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – Mr. Pondinas
Motion carried 4 – 1
Mr. Salatas created at the request of the Sanitary Board Ordinance 1756. Its purpose is to have landscape credits codified. The Sanitary Board would be approving the stipulations.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
Mr. Pondinas asked to defer 1756 to get the Sanitary District involved as they are the ones giving the credit.
Mr. Salatas stated that the Sanitary Board has not had time to look at this ordinance.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to Consider Ordinance No. 1756, an ordinance establishing landscaping waste water sewage credit.
Mr. Pondinas made the motion defer Ordinance No. 1756, an ordinance establishing landscaping waste water sewage credit on first reading, Mr. Schilling seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously
Board Action
Mr. Swets called for a motion to Consider Ordinance No. 1757, an ordinance establishing pool filling credit for waste water sewage charges.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to defer Ordinance No. 1757, an ordinance establishing pool filling credit for waste water sewage charges. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously to defer
The changes are as follows:
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to approve the agreement with the St. John Township Trustee for Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services for unincorporated St. John Township.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the agreement with the St. John Township Trustee for Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services for unincorporated St. John Township and authorize the Town Manager to sign. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion approved unanimously
Ms. LaRue added that area Fire Chiefs are providing reports on a quarterly basis so we can see what types of calls each town is going out for. This is something she implemented in 2021 and will carry on in the future.
Board Action
Mr Swets asked for a motion to accept the resignations of Chris Salatas as Town Manager and Mr. Pondinas from the Storm Water Board., effective February 5, 2022.
Mr. Blazak made the motion and Mr. Schilling seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion carried unanimously
Mr. Swets also asked for a motion to authorize the Department Heads to sign off on things the Town Manager normally would have, up to $4000.
Mr. Blazak made the motion and Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion approved unanimously
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to appoint Jason Dravek as Interim Town Manager at $100/week, with no additional benefits to help make sure things don’t fall through the cracks and keep things organized at the Town Hall.
Mr. Aurelio made the motion and Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Board Discussion/Questions/Comments
None
Ayes – Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – Mr. Pondinas
Motion carried 4 – 1
Ms. Hernandez submitted Requests to Purchase in the amount of $75,511.34.
Board Action
Mr. Blazak made the motion to pay the Requests to Pay in the amount of $75,511.34 as submitted by the Clerk-Treasurer and authorize her to pay the same.
Mr. Schilling seconded the motion.
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio, Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion approved unanimously
Jan Barry, Recording Secretary
Town Council
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Jason Dravet, Interim Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Absent: None
Mr. Swets noted there were a couple of corrections to the July 28, 2021 and the August 25, 2021 which were corrected and distributed.
Discussions/Questions/Comments:
Mr. Pondinas advised he didn’t receive the January 13, 2022 and the January 26, 2022 minutes and agreed to approve all minutes, to exclude the 2 aforementioned dated minutes.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the minutes, excluding the January 13, 2022 and the January 26, 2022 minutes; Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 to 1, with 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas. January 13, 2022 and January 26, 2022 minutes deferred.
Having no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Swets closed the floor.
Mr. Westland noted there were questions about the back of the development. The developer presented something to the Plan Commission which would change the way the ordinance is written. The ordinance, as written would allow for the paired villas. He agreed that the motion be denied.
Mr. Blazak noted they have a meeting tentatively scheduled within a week with the attorney and the developer.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to deny Ordinance No. 1752, an ordinance rezoning certain property known as St. John Commons, a mixed use development, from R-1 to PUD. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to defer the Fire Department transfer of appropriations. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously to defer.
Steve Dalton – Cender/Dalton – Budget
As Mr. Dalton had been on-line, he was provided the opportunity to discuss the upcoming Town budget process. Mr. Aurelio provided a brief overview about the Town Council’s plan for setting the 2023 budget process and introduced Mr. Dalton to lead the discussion.
Mr. Dalton recommended a deep dive into each individual department, requesting expenses e.g., payroll expenses, capitol planning & procedures and benchmarking, within the months of April, May and June. He recommended starting with the easier departments first. With 5-6 major departments, the schedule could possibly be set for every other week for the 3 months. The first meeting should be to understand how the department currently operates, its organizational chart, how it’s staffed, how they’re paid and any allocation of funds. Mr. Dalton has received the 2021 financials from Ms. Hernandez.
Detailed payroll reporting was requested but have not yet been received. Mr. Dalton noted that the payroll is not a lengthy process and can complete that portion in about a week.
Mr. Aurelio would like a better understanding of the cost of government in St. John. He would like to improve on town services e.g., snow plowing, pothole repair, proper staffing levels in Public Works, Parks, Building and Planning, Town Manager’s Office and Clerk-Treasurer’s Office and utilities. In addition, the Town needs a capital equipment review for road projects, parks, park improvements, and sidewalks. Does the Town need better plows, more fire trucks and more police equipment? A better understanding of outstanding bond issues, TIF income, future bond needs, principal payments, interest costs, maturity dates, etc. is needed.
Pursuant to IC361-4-12, Mr. Aurelio made a motion to require the Clerk-Treasurer to turn over the following documents to the Town Council:
Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Mr. Dalton explained he needed that information as it is State Statute that the Town Council is responsible for internal controls. If audited by the State Board of Accounts, any inconsistencies between pay stubs, checks, time sheets and supervisor approvals, the Town Council could be written up.
Mr. Swets advised the timesheets are important because the Town Council needs to know how many hours people are working to determine if overtime paid is because of staffing levels.
Mr. Westland offered that the Public Access Counselor did have an opinion that the information being requested is not private and with the proper redactions are public record.
Mr. Swets called for a vote. Motion carried 3 ayes to 2 nays by Mr. Schilling and Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Westland noted that everything for the initial lawsuit was resolved. Mr. Lotton was to take action on certain items that would affect the 40-acre parcel, however that action was not accomplished. The amended settlement dismisses the “Interceptor” lawsuit, currently in Appeals Court with a March 1, 2022 deadline. This agreement would resolve the “Interceptor” lawsuit, but leaves Paragraphs 12 – 16 from the original agreement open, which refers to the 40-acre parcel. There is a deadline and if it isn’t approved, the original “Interceptor” lawsuit comes back to life. The agreement puts the “Interceptor” lawsuit to rest, but leaves open the 40-acre parcel where there is still time to continue negotiating or decide to pursue litigation.
Mr. Westland noted there were no additional meetings regarding negotiations, other than Mr. Kuyper contacting him about this settlement and whether it would be approved. The new deadline is March 1, 2022.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the First Amendment to the Settlement Agreement with BLB St. John and LBL Development. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2022-02-23, a resolution approving an order of the Plan Commission regarding a resolution of the Redevelopment Commission approving amendments to the declaratory resolution and Economic Development Plan for the St. John Economic Development Area II. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Chief LaDuke noted there was a correction as to how the Fire Department vacation is pro-rated. He was concerned that the Firefighter/EMT and Firefighters/Paramedics be addressed in this Ordinance.
Mr. Westland advised there was not a change from the January meeting and the only intent was the feedback for the 1st year of employment.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 1754, an ordinance amending Ordinances 1696 and 1750, Personnel Policy Manual, on Second Reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 1755, an ordinance amending Town Zoning Ordinance No. 1483 regarding the regulation of tobacco and vaping products, on Second Reading. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
The EDC secured verbal sponsorships but would require approval from the Town Council to proceed. The idea is to not have any expense for the Town, but to generate revenue instead. The EDC voted unanimously for the idea of an Event Planner, with the Park Board in attendance.
Mr. Westland advised he had not received any contract, to which Mr. Dravet noted the necessary information had been emailed to Mr. Westland to create the contract. Mr. Westland agreed to locate the email and prepare the contract for signature subject to legal review.
Mr. Pondinas addressed a concern that the contract fee was originally $3,000-$5,000 but is now $10,000. Mr. DeYoung was confident in their ability to raise the funds to cover that cost through sponsorships and grants.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the contract and authorize the Town Council President to proceed subject to legal review, with the event planner for the Town event. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to Consider Resolution No. 2022-02-23A, a resolution adopting the Joint Interlocal Cooperative Agreement with the Town of Schererville for building inspection services. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the donation of the Police Department’s 2008 Tailwind single axle cargo trailer. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Swets returned to the items regarding the RTP for purchasing the new pipe. The water main materials is part of the Bond that the Water Department took out. Therefore, it is not for us to tell them where they have to spend their money. Town Council would be looking for direction. Mr. Pondinas noted this was not for water mains to be fixed, but to purchase 18-inch pipe, which is difficult to find and it was found. We need approximately 850-feet, and it is approximately $93,000. This cost includes transportation. There is a 15-day window to make a decision.
The need is for 600-feet to hook up from Redeemer Church into the Treatment Plant. The rest is needed to go from where they stubbed off on the property line to go to Well 8, which needs to be done. Mr. Schilling asked if any of the permits had been reviewed to get this going, as we need it by June.
Mr. Pondinas noted there is another RTP for $145,000, which is the total cost. The item permit purchase is also in an RTP for $7,900. Peerless is managing the paperwork. Everything is in the pamphlet distributed and the area circled in yellow is the well-head protection area. They should start drilling in the middle of June. The hole is already there as we paid a one-time cost of $8,000. They will drill in that hole as we know there is good water there. They will need to test it first then they can tell if they are able to get 1,250 gallons per minute.
Mr. Dravet advised that for Well 8, the item permits will be funded through with the construction cost and run through Haas and Associates. The item permit will be filed by Haas and Associates, not Peerless.
As it is a rather expensive well house, the Town will have to go out for bids. Nothing can be done until the water quality report is received from Well 9 as that will determine the cost of the construction for Well 8.
Mr. Westland advised that the Water Board has the authority and they are seeking Town Council approval to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to authorize the Water Board to approve Appropriation 605000430 (Appropriation 605000430 consists of Core & Main for $93,627.50; Peerless Midwest for $145,765.00; Sheehy for $7,950.00 and Peerless for $21,750.00). Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve payment of the RTPs of $331.750.92. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried forward.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Councilmen present:
Mike Aurelio, Councilman (via online), Bryan Blazak, Councilman, Wayne Pondinas, Councilman, Michael Schilling, Councilman, Gerald Swets, President
Also present:
Jason Dravet, IT/Interim Town Manager; Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Public Comment:
Via email
Dave and Roberta Mabry
9461 Jack Dr, SJ
Good morning Beth,
This is a question for the Town Council.
The roads in Saint John are filled with potholes and becoming increasing dangerous to drive on.
93rd east of 41 is heavily traveled not only by cars but by school buses and it is in horrible shape.
Earl drive between Alsip and 96th is terrible, nothing but potholes.
Deodor north and south is crumbling and there are many more roads in town that haven’t been touched in years.
Is there a plan and can you make it public?
Dave and Roberta Mabry
9461 Jack Dr, SJ
End of Public Comment
Mr. Swets responded that he had no list of roads in front of him that were being repaired. He knew they had talked about Earl Drive, but that is not fully owned by the Town.
Mr. Pondinas responded that 3 trucks were out today doing cold patching, but it is going to take time. He also stated he had no list of roads being repaired in front of him, but there are roads being repaired.
A. Consider Town Manager Contract
The approval of the Town Manager contract to offer to the new Town Manager.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to approve the Town Manager contract, as written.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the Town Manager contract, as written. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Comments/Questions/Discussion
Mr. Pondinas shared that he is all for Joe being hired, but did not agree with the wages offered. The Town Council voiced their opinions after the interview. He found $100,000 acceptable, while everyone else was at $108,000. He looked forward to having him in Town, working with him, showing him around Town and looking at our water and sewer system. Mr. Pondinas further added, that he will support him.
Mr. Aurelio added that he also wants to be mindful of tax dollars and resources in town, but believes it is reasonable to pay him the same as the Town Manager that moved over to Cedar Lake.
Mr. Pondinas noted that new people should be required to prove themselves.
Mr. Swets added that he thought the suggestion for the $108,000 was made at the executive Session, because of his experience, whereby the higher number was a fit. The previous Town Manager did not have quite the same experience.
Mr. Pondinas concluded with he thought they were both good candidates, noting his view had been the same for all Departments.
No additional Comments/Questions/Discussion
Mr. Swets called for Roll Call vote
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio (via online), Mr. Blazak, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – Mr. Pondinas
Mr. Pondinas interjected that he does approve of hiring Joe Wiszowaty, 100%.
Board Action
Mr. Swets asked for a motion to offer the Town Manager contract to Joseph Wiszowaty, as presented.
Mr. Blazak made the motion to offer the Town Manager contract to Joseph Wiszowaty, as presented. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion.
Comments/Questions/Discussion
Mr. Schilling added to authorize the Town Council President to sign.
Mr. Blazak and Mr. Pondinas were fine with that addition to the motion.
Ayes - Mr. Aurelio (via online), Mr. Blazak, Mr. Pondinas, Mr. Schilling, Mr. Swets
Nays – None
Motion approved unanimously
Mr. Swets added that he was excited to see Mr. Wiszowaty here with his family and happy that it will be full speed ahead. Mr. Wiszowaty is scheduled to begin on Monday, March 7, 2022.
Respectfully submitted,
Jan Barry
Town Council Recording Secretary
Councilmen present:
Mike Aurelio, Councilman, Bryan Blazak, Councilman, Wayne Pondinas, Councilman, Michael Schilling, Councilman.
Also present:
Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; Jason Dravet, IT
Members absent:
Gerald Swets, Town Council President, Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Public Comment:
None
Trista Hudson from Cender/Dalton was introduced as the Financial Advisor presenting information at the Study Session.
Ms. Hudson asked the Town Council what they know about ARPA. The consensus, they all know a little about ARPA.
Ms. Hudson highlighted the Main Points:
Mr. Schilling stated at this point, we should set up a committee. I don’t believe that all the money needs to go to roads. Public Safety should get some, as should water and utilities.
Mr. Aurelio stated the Town Council should advertise for committee membership. A thoughtful, balanced committee to flush out and bring to us what needs to be done in a transparent and open manner.
Mr. Schilling questioned if it should be Department Heads? Town Manager? A couple of Residents?
Ms. Hudson stated there does not need to be any political affiliation.
Ms. Hudson added that St. John would be receiving an additional allotment of $8031.39 from the State of Indiana. This additional allotment is coming from cities/towns around Indiana that chose not to apply for the money. The money should be coming to your ARPA account in the next couple of weeks.
Ms. Hudson cautioned cities/towns on giving bonuses to employees. Flat bonuses can’t just be given out per the guidelines. When this money is gone, it is gone. If you don’t have the money to sustain bonuses/ pay increases, it is probably better not to use it that way.
ReportingAdditional questions
Mr. Pondinas asked if the ARPA funds could be invested. Ms. Hudson replied, only until you are waiting to spend them. They must be spent by 2026.
The Town Council thanked Ms. Hudson for her time.
Mr. Schilling recapped the first step as getting a committee formed. Discussion was held around individuals to possibly include in the 5–7-member committee. They were given as the Town Manager, some Department Heads, and citizens.
The next Town Council meeting is scheduled for March 23, 2022. Mr. Schilling would like the committee names by that time to formally submit for a Town Council vote. Mr. Wiszowaty will work up a list of available personnel.
Mr. Pondinas added that the Department Heads should be asked for a list of what they want and then look at where we are going to get the biggest bang for our buck. He further shared Bob Davis’s list of what the Public Works is suggesting.
Mr. Aurelio stated that all of this could then be flushed out by the committee.
Mr. Pondinas mentioned the need to add 85Th Street by Alexander to the list. Mr. Blazak stated he already has a commitment from the county and a commitment is due by Friday from Schererville on this section of road. After those commitments are turned in, we can then see what St. John’s remaining balance will be.
Mr. Schilling re-stated they need to get the committee list to the Town Council for its next meeting. He would also like to see a formal request from each department for what they would like. And maybe even a project from each Councilman to see what we have in mind.
It was discussed that the US41/93rd Avenue project would probably just come out of bond money.
Mr. Blazak stated we need to spend this Federal money on projects we want done now.
Mr. Pondinas stated they need to get the committee going, so they can help get this done.
Respectfully submitted,
Jan Barry, Town Council Recording Secretary
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Absent: Michael Aurelio, Councilman
Mr. Swets presented Resolution 2022-03-23D honoring K-9 Match on the occasion of his retirement.
The Police Department presented Office Adams with a plaque for Match. Other presentations were made with plaques and gifts.
There were a few spelling corrections made to January 12, 2022 and January 26, 2022 minutes which have been corrected and submitted.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the January 12, 2022 Meeting, the January 26, 2022 Meeting, the February 23, 2022 Meeting, the March 3, 2022 Special Meeting, and the March 7, 2022 Special Meeting. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1758, on first reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 to 0.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1758. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 to 0.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2022-03-23, and authorize the Town Council President to sign. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 to 0.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1759. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Resolution No. 2022-03-23A. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to consider Supplemental Agreement No. 1 to the Service Agreement with First Group Engineering to provide services for FGE Project 21-0010, not to exceed $18,010. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to authorize the Fire Chief to fill a vacant Full-time Firefighter position. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 to 1, nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Pondinas state his understanding that it would be advertised to the public and that the committee would include Department Heads and the Clerk-Treasurer.
Mr. Swets explained that the Department Heads would bring their needs to the committee and the committee would make their recommendations to the Council.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to appoint these members to the committee. The motion failed due to lack of second.
Mr. Pondinas made a motion consider formation of ad-hoc committee for preparation of plan for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds and add Clerk-Treasurer to the committee and the Department Heads, plus three people. The motion failed due to lack of second.
Mr. Wiszowaty suggested meeting with each of the Council Members individually to discuss options as there won’t be a resolution this evening.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to defer. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 to 1, nay by Mr. Swets.
Mr. Pondinas:
Update on the SCADA System. Installation began on Monday in the water towers then will be started at the treatment plants. It should be completed in about two months.
He is questioning the addition of a new employee hired for the office. He was asking how that would affect the budget. Mr. Swets responded that the addition was made based on the recommendation of the departing Town Manager.
He brought up the water meter raise, and that it should be addressed soon.
He brought up the Storm Water fee and is wondering when that will take effect. It would help to pay for Storm Water projects.
Are there any updates on the K-Mart? Mr. Swets responded that the previous Town Manager had sent some information to the owner without response.
Mr. Pondinas was discussing with Mr. Wiszowaty, the sprinkler systems and alternating days to help out with the water in the summer.
Mr. Blazak:
In reference to the MS4 Board, Mr. Blazak made a motion to ratify the term and restate the appointment of Joe Moore, as approved at the last meeting, to a 4-year term on the Storm Water Board. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Mr. Pondinas questioned whether there would be any conflict of interest as Mr. Moore’s business sells storm water related products. Mr. Blazak confirmed that Mr. Moore would not be bringing his business or consulting into the Town. The Town could have Mr. Moore sign a Conflict of Interest Statement. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to ratify the term and restate the appointment of Joe Gomeztagle to a 3-year term on the Storm Water Board. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to ratify the term and restate the appointment of Bill Manousopoulos to a 2-year term on the Storm Water Board. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
That concludes the business of the Storm Water management team. There is a meeting scheduled on the first Friday of April on which they will have election of officers. Mr. Wiszowaty will provide the notice to the Clerk-Treasurer.
B. Clerk-Treasurer: Nothing to report
C. Town Manager:
There were 2 interdepartmental meetings held and there will continue to be Department Head meetings held every two weeks.
Outlined in the Town Manager report are the various projects in the Town.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to pay the docket in the amount of $2,682,531.88. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Absent: Michael Schilling, Councilman
Billy Manousopoulos, 10011 Parrish
He has questions from residents about a specific employee and the termination of her position as the Part-time Recording Secretary addressed to Mr. Swets. As there was no Town Manager at the time, the decision came from Mr. Swets as she was not interested in the Full-time position.
A. Town Employees insurance benefits renewal – Karl Kocher, Kocher Insurance Group. Packets were distributed to the Town Council Members. Mr. Kocher addressed the Town Council and provided a short history of the relationship with the Town and how the Town became partially self-insured. This is the seventh or eighth year that BAS is the best option for the Town. A comparison to Anthem as an option was made. They look at Claims Expectancies based on the seven to eight year history as well as the specific cost of Self-Insurance from a Reinsurance perspective to provide a rough overall expense. Based on this, the expenses for this year would be about 4% higher than last year, which is still about $100,000 less than Anthem’s full coverage premium. Kocher will continue to monitor these numbers throughout the year to know how to manage next year’s renewal.
There will be no changes in the health benefits, as there are with many private health programs, where deductibles and out-of-pocket costs increase every year.
B. Included in the packet, are the insurance carriers approached this year. As a practice, they speak to eight or nine firms to provide the high end program. The current carrier returned the most aggressive program. The summary of the benefits is included as well as the new Dental Benefit. BAS provides a great claims assistance program.
C. They are introducing a new Wellness Program from Marquee Health this year, paid for by the Kocher Insurance Group.
D. Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at lunchtime, Kocher will hold a lunch and learn about the benefit offerings and answer any questions.
E. Open Enrollment begins on April 19 and will go through the first week of May. The Renewal begins on May 1, 2022.
F. Mr. Kocher distributed program documents about Marquee Health. He would be encouraging all employees to establish a Login for the program and become acclimated with the benefits.
Mr. Pondinas asked if the employees would receive the benefit information at the meeting or before the meeting. Mr. Wiszowaty confirmed that the information would be emailed to all of the Department Heads on Thursday morning.
Mr. Wiszowaty thanked Mr. Kocher for his assistance with getting the benefits package prepared and complete. He anticipates that next year the process will begin earlier and whether moving back to private insurance would be beneficial. Mr. Pondinas asked about the employee rate. Mr. Wiszowaty explained that they should have the final numbers by Monday. Mr. Aurelio asked what a typical increase is for groups such as the Town. Mr. Kocher responded that they look at group sizes and not types of groups. Many of the groups are experiencing increases in the double digits.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Employee Insurance Benefit Program Renewal and authorize the Town Council President to sign. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
stated that at 20 plus years, they get 30 days, or six weeks of vacation. Mr. Wiszowaty noted that Mr. Pondinas was referencing non-exempt employees. Mr. Pondinas believes it is too much time to give. Mr. Wiszowaty stated that none of that will change. Mr. Wiszowaty said that the situation came up as a personnel issue, which has hopefully been resolved. Mr. Aurelio also noted that it is a lot of vacation days. Mr. Pondinas continued to note that employees already receive one day of sick time a month, yet they don’t use it. Mr. Aurelio asked that if Wayne wanted to reduce vacation time from 30 days for people 20 years in, he would be up for doing an analysis, as he too, believes it is a lot of vacation days.
Ms. Hernandez clarified that the main difference is the exempt department heads start off at one month at time of hire, while the non-exempt employees have to work the first year with no vacation, but accrue the two weeks that would be used in the following year. Mr. Aurelio asked if this ordinance was only affecting 117B.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to defer Ordinance No. 1760. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. The motion to defer carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Pondinas said he would do away with compensatory time. He notes that many employees take Fridays and Mondays and then others call off, so the manager doesn’t have a crew. He believes it would be fair to pay everyone overtime for anything over 40. Department heads would have budgets to account for overtime. In Public Works, the guys would appreciate it and have asked for it.
Mr. Swets asked about the change in this document. Mr. Wiszowaty said that the change makes it compliant for police officers to allow for accrued compensatory time, who are allowed to accrue because their regulations permit it, for up to 100 hours. There is no change for the regular Town employees that are not police officers. The use of the comp time still has to go through the proper request and approval by the department heads. The police department uses comp time to control their overtime. For every hour of time worked, they receive 1.5 hours of comp time. Mr. Aurelio asked if Mr. Wiszowaty was aware of any abuse of comp time, to which he responded he was not.
Ms. Hernandez added that at the beginning of the year, police officers were allowed to accrue 480 hours. Town Council approved an $115,000 comp time buyout on all of the officers.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1761 on first reading. Motion carried with 3 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No.1762 on first reading. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1762. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1763 on first reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. The motion was carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1763. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak added that based on the large amount of funds, the committee would need to understand how to appropriate the funds on projects that are critical to the Town.
Mr. Pondinas clarified that the Town has until 2024 to decide how the funds will be spent and until 2026 to actually spend it. Mr. Blazak noted that the Council members have projects on their lists. Mr. Swets asked if they wanted to post it, advertise, and accept applications. Mr. Aurelio said he would like the applications to be sent to the Town Manager and distributed to the Town Council to vote for 3 members.
Mr. Westland asked about the level of authority this committee would hold. It was confirmed the committee would only recommend to the Town Council, who in turn would make the decisions. Mr. Swets added that his goal would be to form the ad-hoc committee and have the department heads present their plans and ideas. He would then like to open it to public comment for input.
Mr. Wiszowaty pointed out the time constraints with the program. He added that the plan can be basic and will need to be presented in a public hearing with respect to the appropriations, which would be when public input is gained. He and Ms. Hernandez have already worked with the department heads for their ideas which add up to about $8-9,000,000. He suggested gathering all of the plans and presenting to Town Council to determine priorities. Mr. Wiszowaty asked if it was sensible to have a citizen committee at all. Mr. Westland agreed with Mr. Wiszowaty and noted that the Council would need to determine the priorities prior to appointing a committee.
Ms. Hernandez suggested the department heads put together a list of items. The Town Council would review and prioritize the list. Then hold a study session and invite the public, to allow interactive feedback. From that session, the list would be refined, prior to holding a public hearing. The department heads would need to put together quotes for their projects.
Mr. Blazak added that his project includes other municipalities using their ARPA funds for their portion of the project. We would need to let them know whether we plan to move forward or not.
Mr. Wiszowaty suggested presenting the requests already collected to the Town Council for preliminary review. Mr. Blazak added that these items should have fairly solid expenditures to avoid committing to a project that ends up over budget, which will then cost the taxpayers money. Mr. Wiszowaty confirmed that he did review the numbers provided and made some adjustments to create a more accurate cost assessment.
Mr. Swets recapped that Mr. Wiszowaty and Ms. Hernandez will provide the Town Council with a refined list of projects. There will then be a study session with the public and include the department heads to explain their requests.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to authorize the payout and to authorize the Clerk-Treasurer to remit the payment to the individual in the amounts listed in the communication to be charged to the appropriate appropriation. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Pondinas:
The installation of the SCADA system is going well. The Gates tower should be on line and monitored. They are waiting for permits for Wells 8 and 9. Once received, drilling for Well 9 can begin. The bids for the water main projects went out on March 28th. The bids should be opened at the next Waterworks meeting. Mr. Pondinas asked about the Special Meeting being held on Monday. Mr. Swets responded that some of the open items require second approvals and the Ordinance presented this evening.
Mr. Blazak:
He announced the resignation of Joe Moore from the Storm Water Management Board. He announced that anyone wishing to serve on that board should submit an application by Tuesday, April 26th. The applications can be found on the Town website.
Mr. Aurelio:
The Economic Development Committee held a special meeting today for the Freedom Fest on July 3rd. They are working on sponsorships and picking 2 bands. From the Parks Board, he noted his dismay for the resignation of Tyler. The Park Board passed the new Gates Park. There will be additional delays on the Skate Park. Mr. Pondinas asked about the delays. Mr. Aurelio explained there were some disagreements with the vendor and the Board about the proposed design and the cost. Mr. Pondinas added that it had been talked about after the meeting and his understanding is that they are to send crews out and start next week. Mr. Aurelio noted that he was not aware of any conversation following the meeting. Mr. Pondinas added he was in touch with them today and yesterday.
Mr. Swets:
Read from a prepared document – “For members of the Town Council and residents of St. John. After appointing Councilman Mike Aurelio as the liaison on the Park Board, the behavior displayed by some on the Board has been disrespectful, divisive and unprofessional. This behavior has gone on long enough and has become an embarrassment to the Town of St. John and to the entire region. The Park Board is not and never was intended to be an island unto itself. It was to work with cooperation of the Town Council and not against it, and not inconsistent with the plans and direction of our community. Our residents deserve better. Therefore, we are going to take action to restructure our Parks and Recreation Department in order to make this a more efficient and more responsive to the residents of St. John. This action should eliminate further contention and will keep the Parks and Recreation activities more aligned with the desires of the residents of St. John and the objectives of the Parks and Recreation Plan. These actions were necessary in following the recent resignation of our Park Superintendent, it is now the best time to do this. The Parks and Recreation Department will function much like any other department in Town government. It has been done in other communities in Indiana and is a more efficient way to carry out the operations of our Parks and Recreation Department. Let’s be clear, the Town Council is not sitting in place of the Parks Board nor are we creating a new Parks Board. These actions are pursuant to Indiana Statute. The Parks and Recreation Department will be functioning as a department in the Town of St. John. The Council action will create a Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, composed of five residents from St. John, who are dedicated and interested in Parks and Recreation. This Advisory Committee will make recommendations to the Town Council and will not act independently but rather collaboratively. This Committee will work under the guidance of the Park Superintendent and the Town staff.”
Mr. Swets then presented Ordinance No. 1764 and distributed copies to the Council. Mr. Westland was asked to highlight the Ordinance. The pertinent parts of Ordinance No. 1764 in Section 1, repeals chapter 15, entitled Parks and Recreation of the St. John code, and Ordinance 1759 and replaces them with the following:
Mr. Pondinas stated that this Ordinance was just presented to the Council and can’t be expected to vote on something that was just submitted. He added that this is typical action of this Board, where paperwork is distributed at the last minute and then are expected to vote on it.
Mr. Pondinas made a motion to defer Ordinance No. 1764 for further review. He added that no one other than the President was privy to this action. The motion died due to no support.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1764 on first reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Mr. Aurelio read a prepared statement: “The action taken tonight are to stop the division in our Town government and to focus on making St. John a better place to live for all of our residents. The Park Board has been running inconsistent with the goals and objectives of the Town of St. John. The incessant bickering and bullying from some have made the situation untenable which has prompted the action to consolidate and set aside the Park Board in favor of unity in our community. This will ensure that our Park and Recreation Department runs smoothly and efficiently like every other department in our town. More importantly, it’s going to be accountable to the taxpayers. This is what the residents of St. John want and this is what our residents deserve. It is my sincere hope that our new Parks Superintendent, when hired, will find this a much better working situation than our current Superintendent has endured.”
Mr. Pondinas stated that he didn’t think the current Superintendent endured anything. He continued to say that the Superintendent wrote a letter to have Mr. Pondinas stay on and that Mr. Aurelio and Mr. Pondinas could have shared the liaison duties. Mr. Pondinas was asked to be the liaison for the MS4 Board, but didn’t realize he would be removed from the Parks Board. He said that was when all this started up. Mr. Aurelio was pushed on the Park Board, so they pushed back. He said that the members of the Park Board did a great job and it wasn’t until the last couple of months that things changed.
Mr. Swets noted that the Board has been reckless and disrespectful for a long time. Mr. Pondinas asked who they disrespected. He added that at the last meeting, Mr. Aurelio should have raised his hand and asked to speak, but he didn’t and that upset the President. There is a little animosity there. He suggested that the Ordinance was not just prepared in a day’s time and asked Mr. Westland when the Ordinance was prepared. Mr. Westland confirmed that the document was prepared in the last 24 hours and delivered to Mr. Wiszowaty.
Mr. Swets stated there is a motion on the floor to consider Ordinance No. 1764 at first reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. The motion was carried 3 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Westland advised that since this was not a unanimous vote, just like Ordinance 1761, consideration for adoption cannot be voted on tonight, but would appear as a second reading item on the next meeting agenda.
B. Clerk-Treasurer:
Ms. Hernandez thanked Mr. Wiszowaty for working with her on the Ordinances. She also thanked Mr. Aurelio for considering her to be a part of the ARPA Board and respecting her position and including her.
C. Town Manager: Nothing to report
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Mr. Pondinas asked for a discussion on it. He addressed Mr. Aurelio about his comments from the last meeting about being what the public wanted. He noted the public in attendance and asked whether they are all in favor of this. He stated that it was the actions of this Town Council that caused this disruption in the Parks Department. Removing him from the Board caused a lot of these problems. He said that hey accomplished a lot with the Park Board. Mr. Pondinas stated that neither Mr. Aurelio nor Mr. Blazak were elected, but appointed. He continues to say that the Park Board functions better than the Town Council, who are the laughing stock of this community. He accused Mr. Swets of being sneaky by not including the item on the Agenda and pulling it out of his folder at the last minute.
Mr. Swets requested a vote. The motion carried with 3 ayes and 2 nays by Mr. Schilling and Mr. Pondinas.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Mr. Swets asked Mick Zuccarelli to come forward for a presentation. He was presented with a retirement plaque and the resolution. Photos were taken.
Photos were taken and the resolution was presented to the coach.
Katie Walsh, 9063 Columbia Street
She was questioning the reasons for the latest development with the Park Board and the status of the Park projects. She listed several programs, e.g., the Community Garden, new playground equipment, events and the Memorial Trees and why the Council wants them to stop. She asked to set aside personal agendas. She asked what is to be expected next.
Tom Adamek, 9401 Chestnut Cove
He began with a question on the status of the 40 acres at 109th and White Oak. The stated that there is a developer starting to clear the land and wondered how they were able to so. He also addressed the topic of the dismantling of the Park Board and asked if the Town would still be eligible for the grant for the skate park or any other grants for projects, or if they will be forfeited.
Dale Robert, 11990 Heron Lake Road
He asked about the comments that were emailed to the Clerk-Treasurer’s office and how they are being handled.
Bill Manousopoulos, 10011 Parrish
He asked about the open settlement against the Town. He also asked about the new rules for the Public Comment. He stated that he checked Ordinance 1623, which refers to Public Comment, and that it does not say that questions are addressed to the President of the Board, and it also does not say there is only 30 minutes for Public Comment. He noted the Town is opening itself up to potential lawsuits.
Patrick Connelly, 9354 E Oak Ridge Drive
He expressed an opinion on some of the Council members.
Kyle Stancy, 11711 Leonardo Drive
He stated that he was excited about seeing a skate park coming to the area. He attended many of the previous Park Board meetings and followed the progress. He offered his perspective, as a skate boarder, with regards to the two (2) proposed designs. He said the skate board community would be happy with either design, but noted the new design does offer improvements with regards to better traffic flow.
Terry Nellemann, 9500 W. 103rd Place
He said that he had asked, in the past, to get the FBI involved and now asked Mr. Swets if he, the Council, or Legal had contacted the FBI about the problems in the Town. He asked not to be censored. He expressed concerns about the developer and the activity at the Gates of St. John.
Mr. Pondinas stated that since the Council is not the Park Board, they are not qualified to approve the Park Board Minutes. Mr. Swets deferred to Mr. Westland who added that the minutes would remain unapproved. There are the typed minutes as well as the video should there be any requests.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the March 23, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes, the April 13, 2022 Special Meeting Minutes, and the April 18, 2022 Special Meeting Minutes. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
a. Deferred Action - Ordinance 1760; Action deferred by Council April 13, 2022 - Vacation Carryover
b. Deferred Action - Ordinance 1761 on second reading; Motion to Adopt - Compensatory Time
Mr. Schilling made a motion to defer item a. and item b. above. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Pondinas made a motion to defer the Accounts Payable Voucher dated April 19, 2022 representing payment for purchases, supplies, equipment and services rendered to the Parks & Recreation Department in the combined total of $35,652.62 for further clarification. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Ms. Hernandez addressed the activity of the appropriations when applying incoming funds to the general fund, but paying bills out of another fund. Ms. Hernandez advised the Council to hold any action until the appropriations are determined.
2. Mr. Schilling made a motion to authorize and ratify an Agreement with Cynthia Copenhaver (Event Planner) for St. John’s Freedom Fest Celebration July 3, 2022. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
3. Mr. Kennedy with American Structurepoint was called to provide information to determine the needs for a St. John Community Center. Mr. Kennedy was accompanied by representatives of Legacy Development Advisors and their goal is to conduct an evaluation based on a variety of possible scenarios. Alex of Legacy Development Advisors would conduct assessments based on the vision of the Town stakeholders and do comparisons of existing available buildings versus new development. They would provide the Town with ample support to make a knowledgeable decision. Mr. Aurelio asked what exactly is covered with the report. Alex responded that they look at available inventory, possible new sites, talking to the stakeholders about multi-use options, which will flow into the park impact fee study. The programming would determine the size and scale required and the cost assessment of the facility. Mr. Swets asked what the $20,000 was based on. Mr. Kennedy stated that it is the cost of time, effort, and architectural modeling. They confirmed that the $20,000 would cover the entire assessment and programming. Mr. Pondinas asked if some of this was already done as the Parks Department had toured Sun Crest Church. Mr. Pondinas stated that $20,000 is too high. Mr. Schilling added that they should wait until a Park Superintendent is hired. The timing for such a study is about nine (9) weeks. Mr. Swets agreed to have a Parks Director in place first as it would be the Superintendent’s program. Mr. Swets deferred to Mr. McLead for opinion who did acknowledge that he engaged American Structurepoint to move the project forward to provide the Council with a responsible decision. He also added that the new Park Director will have a lot on his plate, and how much involvement this Director will have with this process.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to defer a facility needs assessment in an amount not to exceed $20,000 for St. John Parks & Recreation Department. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Schilling added that he would like to discuss revamping the structure in pay in the Public Works department. He asked for some direction to start the process of maintaining some of those employees. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that he has already started that process with the Department Head. He also added that he has some ideas he would like to share with Mr. Schilling.
Mr. Wiszowaty deferred to Mr. Westland who further explained that the best practice would be to have the building permits to have the inspections. He further noted that there was no agreement reached, which is another problem. He continued through the timeline from April 2021 through April 11, 2022. He added that the two (2) Board members questioned the price, knowing there was removal of steel product in the new design. The vendor informed the Board that he would have the breakdown at the April 19th meeting, which did not take place. Mr. Westland continued to explain that a notice to proceed was issued on April 15th for the modified plan which was never authorized, as there was no vote held on it. The Town Council now has to decide if they want to approve the original design with a change order, as it is greater than 10% of the original contract, for a total of $629,475, or approve the new design for $550,000.
Mr. Aurelio asked if the original contract contained a clause that maximized the price increase at 10%. Mr. Westland added that the contract is Spohn Ranch’s standard form agreement. He continued to read the verbiage “any increase in the price of raw materials anticipated to be used in the scope greater than 10% occurring after execution of the proposal shall constitute a material change condition necessitating an equitable adjustment to the contract price”. In other words, if their costs increase greater than 10%, it would trigger a change order, and if under 10%, Spohn Ranch would eat that cost. At the April 11th meeting Spohn Ranch explained they were able to hold the price by removing some of the steel, which had increased greatly, and adding more concrete, for which the Park Board members asked for a breakdown of those costs.
Adam Eichorn, of Spohn Ranch, joined via phone to field any questions. Mr. Aurelio asked what metrics are used to determine the percentage of the cost increases. Mr. Eichorn responded that Spohn Ranch used the original cost of raw materials and the change in the cost over the 12 month period. Mr. Aurelio asked if that information had been provided to the Council. Mr. Eichorn could not confirm if the packets provided contain the specific detail for raw material. Mr. Wiszowaty added that had the project started in fall of 2021, there would have been a 9% increase in the original contract, which would have been $599,500. Mr. Schilling was concerned about the removal of steel and how that might affect the strength of the finished product. Mr. Eichorn explained that it was external skate feature steel and not reinforcement steel. A skater in the audience was asked to provide some input, who explained the differences in the designs. He added that the new design improved the flow of the park. Mr. Pondinas stated that he thought this was already approved. Mr. Swets clarified that it was not approved since they had questions and concerns.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the value engineered revised design holding the project cost not to exceed $550,000 and to waive permit fees. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Wayne Pondinas –
Mike Aurelio –
Gerald Swets –
Clerk Treasurer - Beth Hernandez
Town Manager - Joseph Wiszowaty
Mr. Westland –
Adam Eichorn, of Spohn Ranch, wanted to acknowledge some of the hard work that went into getting the project developed and contracted. He thanked the Council, the previous Park Board, and Mr. Pondinas for their support. He noted that Tyler was fantastic and level-headed. They only want to build the best skate park that the community deserves. A ball-park completion time is eight (8) to twelve (12) weeks.
Parks and Recreation Department - Superintendent Tyler McLead
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Absent: Michael Aurelio, Councilman
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1765. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1769. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1770 on second reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Accounts Payable Voucher. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
A. Motion to Authorize Preparation of Request for Proposals for the 2022-1 Community Crossings Matching Grant Project and direct Haas & Associates to prepare the necessary bid documents for the same.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to authorize the preparation of the bid documents. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
B. Motion to waive permit fee for Parks & Recreation Department installation of shed at Heron Lake Park. Mr. Wiszowaty noted that this motion is moot due to the approval of the ordinance above.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. Attorney Dave Westland was absent.
Absent: Michael Aurelio, Councilman
Cindy Copenhaver addressed the Council with updates to the Freedom Fest scheduled for Sunday, July 3, 2022 from 3:00pm to 10:00pm in Heartland Park and includes fireworks. They have contacted and invited local businesses to participate. There will be a tent with a stage for the bands, and a Beer Tent with a family designated area. They will have bounce houses and glow sticks for the children, as well as Midwest Ice Arena for use. Malt Brothers will be the beer vendor. There will be 2 bands, the first playing from 3:00pm to 5:30pm and the second band from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. The two confirmed food vendors are Welch’s and Pascals Pizza. Cindy is working with Public Works to solidify the event mapping. A local sponsor will sponsor the volunteer t-shirts. Marketing will be through Facebook, the Town Website, the water bill and signs throughout Town. Volunteer opportunities are available. Mr. Swets asked what the volunteers would be doing. Cindy responded that they would relieve the burden on staff, monitor the Bounce Houses, and clean up the tables. Cindy added that they are reaching out to the local churches and the sponsorship letter included a volunteer request. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that there will be some expenses coming before the Council in two (2) weeks. He will provide the Council Members with a number prior to then.
Mr. Wiszowaty added that he and the Clerk-Treasurer would tweak some of the numbers provided. Mr. Wiszowaty said he would prepare a rough draft by the next Council meeting, as Mr. Swets indicated that it would be best to move this process forward. Mr. Wiszowaty stated that once there is a preliminary program in place, to then put it out for public comment.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. David Westland, Town Attorney was present virtually.
Absent: Michael Aurelio, Councilman
Dale Robert, 11990 Heron Lake Road
Mr. Robert addressed comments from social media posts. He stated he was disturbed to see the racist remarks posted on social media. He said that once you post it, you’re a racist. The Council did not do their due diligence, except for Wayne, who questioned the salary.
Bill Manousopoulos, 10011 Parrish
Mr. Manousopoulos referred to the Robert’s Rules and the need to address the public comments to the Town Council President. He stated that it was not in the Rules and that the President could defer the questions to any member of the Council. He offered to share the Robert’s Rules document with Mr. Swets. He also noted that the Agenda for this evening includes waivers for businesses in the Overlay District. As a resident, he shared that he has no issues with the exemption for the Shrine of Christ Passion area, but is questioning the need to grant exemptions and put Nail Salons in the TIF District. He added that there is an EDC Board to bring in new businesses, but they are being kept busy with festivals, even though a Festival Coordinator has been hired. He said he went to Mr. Swets’s Facebook post where Mr. Swets stated that he was no longer discussing an issue in public. Mr. Swets was elected to listen to every resident, regardless of the complaint and if he will not do his job, he should resign.
Mr. Pondinas stated that in the Special Study Session on May 11th, the minutes did not include his comments made in regards to the fire truck that will come up for purchase. He made comments about going into a Fire Territory and that he didn’t think it was a good idea to get a fire truck if the Town is going to go into a Fire Territory and spend taxpayer money on it if it will end up in someone else’s fire station. That is not included in the minutes that he could see. He also added that he has questioned the minutes before that some of the things he says are not put in there and he said he wondered why. He said he thought it was important.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the April 27, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the April 27, 2022 Special Meeting Minutes. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to defer the April 27, 2022 Special Study Session Minutes. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. Motion to defer was carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Requests to Purchase - Town of St. John
Ms. Hernandez noted there are 6 requests to purchase – 2 from Austgen Electric, 1 from Dixon Engineering, 2 from Ferguson Waterworks and 1 from Nearmap for a total of $139,152.00. Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the 6 requests to purchase as presented. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion was carried unanimously with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
A discussion ensued about the purchase of the Sutphen Extreme Duty Custom Rescue Engine through Sourcewell in the amount of $803,827.00. Mr. Wiszowaty reminded the Council that this had been presented and discussed at the Special Study Session. He added that after speaking to the Clerk-Treasurer regarding the amount of available balance in the cumulative fire fund, the Town would have the required amount within the next two (2) years. He asked Ms. Hernandez to confirm the balance of $460,000 in cumulative fire that is unencumbered. He added that they are expecting $190,000 for each of the next two (2) years.
Mr. Pondinas added that he has the same questions posed earlier. If the Town is going to go into a Fire Territory, do we need to buy a fire truck? How will that affect the Town and the taxpayers if it is set up that the fire truck goes somewhere else? Was the Safety Board a part of this? He added that it would take a while to get the specs for this fire truck and did Chief LaDuke have any input from the Safety Board? Mr. Pondinas asked to table this for additional information. He added that they are being rushed to make a decision to spend $803,827.00 because of interest rates rising. Mr. Swets stated that if it is not approved this month, then the price goes up by four percent (4%) next month. Mr. Swets continued to say, as far as paying for it and having the same question about the Fire District, the Town can either pay cash for it in two (2) years when it comes in or lease it in two (2) years, and the Town can make that decision before delivery. If it is decided to go into a Fire District, the fire truck could be leased and the billing could be transferred to the Fire District. Mr. Schilling added that it would be paid for from the cumulative fire fund and asked Ms. Hernandez if that fund was money collected specifically for the Fire Department. Ms. Hernandez explained that it did not have to be spent only on fire equipment, but added that it might be best practice to do so. She also noted that she does not know what would happen to that fund if it is decided to go into a Fire Territory, but cautions if it will be paid for in cash, to consider that for budgets as this money will be earmarked for the fire truck. The budget will be depleted over the next two (2) years and all the funds Chief LaDuke spends now will need to come from a different place. Mr. Wiszowaty explained that he had addressed this with Chief LaDuke already. Mr. Schilling added that the Fire Territory is in its very early stages right now. Mr. Wiszowaty said that if the Fire Territory doesn’t start by July, it would be another year. Mr. Schilling reiterated that the money in the cumulative fund of $460,000, has to be spent on fire equipment. Mr. Pondinas stated that in 2020, there was $1.2 million-$1.5 million in the cumulative fund and they spent it down fast. He continued, in the $460,000 they still have to put in for the sleeping quarters for about $25,000, which leaves $430,000. Mr. Swets noted it was on the 5 Year Plan and is ready to move forward with it.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to authorize the purchase of the Sutphen Extreme Duty Custom Rescue truck through Sourcewell in the amount of $803,827.00. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 3 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Agreements – Marquee Event Rentals
Mr. Wiszowaty explained this was the agreement for the tent rental for the event, with copies of the amounts in the packets. Mr. Schilling made a motion to authorize an Agreement with Marquee Event Rentals for the Freedom Fest Celebration July 3, 2022. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 3 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas. Ms. Hernandez asked if the tax could be removed off of the proposal.Mr. Wiszowaty noted that the Police Department is hoping to swear in the lateral transfers within the next 2-3 weeks as they’ve passed the necessary pre-checks. The Police Department applied for a grant for addition personnel and should know sometime in the fourth quarter of this year.
On the Fire Department, he added, they are in the process of establishing a list for candidates to hire as the previous list has expired. The Fire Department thanked the Council for moving forward on the fire truck. The Department is working on specifications on a new ambulance, however, since the funds are already pledged for the fire truck, it will be more difficult.
The Town Council will have a study session to discuss the departmental requests for ARPA. Once reviewed, they will be prioritized and be pared down. They will be in a narrative format and distributed to the Council members by next week. Discussions will continue in June with Cender Dalton and the Clerk-Treasurer.
The St. John VFW Post 717 will be holding a Memorial Day service on Monday, at 8:15 a.m. in Civic Park. There will be a brief service in remembrance for all of those who have given their lives in the service of our country. The Council, Clerk-Treasurer and all residents are invited.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. David Westland, Town Attorney and Trista Hudson, Town Financial Advisor Cender Dalton were present.
Absent: Michael Schilling, Councilman
Mr. Wiszowaty provided information on the selected candidate, Michael O’Shea. Mr. O’Shea has accepted the offer of employment with the Town of St. John. Mr. O’Shea has six (6) years of experience as Parks Superintendent for the Town of Dyer with sixteen (16) years of experience in the Parks & Recreation field. Mr. O’Shea has a Master of Science in Recreation Sports and Tourism from the University of Illinois Champaign/Urbana. He is a Certified Parks & Recreation professional, as required by the Town’s job posting. Mr. O’Shea was instrumental in helping Dyer Parks & Recreation Department grow and strengthen bonds within the community, as well as securing grants. One of his references noted that his grant-writing abilities were superior and that he would be a good addition for the Town of St. John. Mr. O’Shea is also a resident of St. John.
Mr. Wiszowaty asked the Town Council to entertain a motion to confirm the appointment of Michael O’Shea as Parks & Recreation Superintendent. Mr. Aurelio made a motion to confirm the appointment. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion.
Mr. Pondinas stated that he knew nothing about this, but only about the interviews with him and another gentleman. Mr. Pondinas added that the other gentleman was offered the position, but that he didn’t find out anything until possibly, Saturday. He said he sent all of the members an email expressing his views and no one had responded. He asked how many people have the package of his benefits. He also said that they are going to increase his salary by $17,678. He continued to say that the Board did away with the Parks Department and they could have had Tyler. He said that they could have gotten Tyler to stay, but the damage was done. He said that this is a lot of money and asked where it was going to come from. He also asked what kind of vacation this gentleman will get, as it adds to the package. Mr. Swets responded that since it is a department head, the vacation time is standard. Mr. Pondinas asked where that information was to look at. Mr. Pondinas pointed out each council member asking if they had received that information. He admitted that he listened to the one interview and could not listen to the other one, noting that he had that opportunity.
Mr. Aurelio said that on the topic of Tyler, they attempted to keep him by offering additional money, but he didn’t want to stay. Mr. Aurelio objected to Mr. Pondinas’s comment that the other council members received more information. He added that everyone sat through the interview process with the two candidates. The process was the Town Manager would vet through the applicants and select the two that were qualified. Mr. Pondinas added that this was the third time this candidate was passed up and this was his third time coming back to the Town. He also noted that all of the other members knew that the Town Manager was going to hire him, but that he did not know until Mr. Wiszowaty called him on Monday.
The motion to confirm the appointment of Michael O’Shea as the Parks and Recreation Superintendent carried with 3 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas. Mr. Wiszowaty introduced Mr. O’Shea and asked him to say a few words. Michael O’Shea introduced himself to the Council.
Ordinance No. 1771: Consider on First Reading an Ordinance Amending Salary Ordinance No. 1747, Being “an Ordinance Repealing Salary Ordinance No. 1739 and All Previous Salary Ordinances and Amendments Establishing a Schedule of Wages and Salaries for Employees, Fire and Police Personnel, and Town Officials”
Motion to Adopt Ordinance No. 1771 on First Reading
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this ordinance amends the salary for the position of Parks and Recreation Superintendent. The previous Superintendent’s salary was significantly low in comparison to other communities and this brings the salary to a competitive level. Mr. Wiszowaty noted, for the record, that he did have the communication with the previous superintendent, specifically what it would take to retain him. The dollar amount made no difference as he had already made up his mind and was determined to leave. Mr. Wiszowaty stated that, on Friday, he had conversations with all of the council members, and the ordinance was submitted for review. Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1771 on first reading. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Mr. Swets asked Mr. Wiszowaty if the package being presented to Mr. O’Shea was similar to the package offered in the past. Mr. Wiszowaty confirmed and noted that the vacation time will be truncated for the half year to two weeks. Mr. Pondinas asked if there was an evaluation clause so after six months he is evaluated. Mr. Wiszowaty confirmed that he will be evaluating all of the department heads and provide them to the Council. It would be an evaluation on performance. Motion carried with 3 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
(Mr. Westland left the meeting at 7:17 P.M.)
Mr. Swets said that the Council members would review the content. Mr. Wiszowaty added that there will be further discussions with the department heads to pare down the lists based on the feedback received from the Council. He continued to say that once the plan is to where the numbers need to be, the Council would adopt the plan, followed by a Public Hearing. Ms. Hudson asked if there would be any public input prior to the Public Hearing. Mr. Wiszowaty said the plan would be published for public comment for what is being proposed which feeds into the Public Hearing. Mr. Swets suggested holding a study session for input. Ms. Hudson suggested allowing for public input prior to finalizing the plan, to which Mr. Swets agreed and to have it available to the public after the numbers have been tweaked, followed by an open session.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 22nd Day of June, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Town Council Special Study Session - May 11, 2022
Town Council Regular Meeting - May 25, 2022
Town Council Special Meeting - June 8, 2022
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the May 11, 2022 Special Study Session Minutes, the May 25, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes, and the June 8, 2022 Special Meeting Minutes. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Westland stated that the Proofs of Publication are in order and compliant with the Indiana law.
Ms. Hernandez reported that various departments sent several requests with justification for additional appropriations.
Mr. Swets opened the floor to Public Comment. There was no public comment.
Mr. Swets closed for Public Comment.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2022-06-22A. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Ordinance No. 1771: an Ordinance Amending Salary Ordinance No. 1747, Being “an Ordinance Repealing Salary Ordinance No. 1739 and All Previous Salary Ordinances and Amendments Establishing a Schedule of Wages and Salaries for Employees, Fire and Police Personnel, and Town Officials”
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that this ordinance amends the salary for the position of Parks and Recreation Superintendent. Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1771 on second reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Requests to Purchase - Town of St. John
Ms. Hernandez noted there are 13 requests to purchase – 2 from Boender Electric, 3 from Core & Main, 2 from Ferguson Waterworks, 1 from Hawk Enterprises, 1 from Monsido, Inc., 1 from Precision Fence, 1 from Redbud, 1 from Ricoh, and 1 from Sutton Asphalt for a total of $122,503.30. Mr. Pondinas broke down each of the purchases. Mr. Pondinas made a motion to accept the 13 requests to purchase as presented for a total of $122,503.30. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion was carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Ordinance No. 1772: Consider on First Reading an Ordinance Amending Town Ordinance No. 1730, being; “an Ordinance of the Town Council of the Town of St. John, Establishing Rates and Charges for the Use of and Services Rendered by the Waterworks System of the Town of St. John”, and all Matters Related Thereto.
Ms. Hernandez explained that on January 20, 2022, State Legislature passed House Bill 1002 to repeal the Utility Receipts Tax, which will go into effect on July 1, 2022. The Town is required to provide two (2) notices, with specific language, in the two (2) billing cycles, following the adoption of this ordinance. Therefore, the notices would be sent in August and September. This resolution reduces the utility rates by 1.48% to the qualified residents of St. John, based on computations prepared by Baker Tilly, pursuant to rates effective in Ordinance 1730 adopted April 28, 2021. Mr. Swets asked if there was any reason it shouldn’t be adopted at this meeting, to which Ms. Hernandez and Mr. Westland responded that, technically, any rate change, involves a Public Hearing. Mr. Schilling made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1772 on first reading. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Resolution No. 2022-06-22: Consider a Resolution approving an order of the Plan Commission regarding a resolution of the Redevelopment Commission approving the amendments to the declaratory resolution and economic development plan for the Economic Development Area I.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this resolution adopts the Plan Commission Resolution No. 2022-06-01, which amends the economic development plan to include certain parcels into the Economic Development Area I. The proposed expansion permits an area of the Town to be designated as a municipal riverfront district of a project area, for the purpose of providing interested parties to secure alcoholic beverage licenses, and to foster economic development. A requirement for designating a riverfront area is that it must be located in a redevelopment or economic development area. The proposed expansion will include an area that was identified as a potential riverfront area with a total acreage of 27.97 acres, which represents about a 3.5% expansion of the total acreage of the St. John allocation area of 800 acres.
Mr. Westland explained the appropriate steps that are taken with economic development allocation areas, beginning with the Redevelopment Commission, to the Plan Commission, to the Council, then back for a confirming resolution with the Redevelopment Commission. Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2022-06-22. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Mr. Pondinas asked if this was going to be one large TIF district and had questions about the tax revenues. A discussion ensued with regards to the timing of the realization of tax revenues. Mr. Wiszowaty further explained that any TIF determination would be assessed per project. Motion carried with 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Resolution No. 2022-06-22B: Consider a Resolution of the Joint Interlocal and Mutual Aid Agreement of the South Lake County Crash Reconstruction Team (S.L.C.C.R.T.)
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that this comes to the Council with a favorable recommendation from the Safety Board. This resolution creates the South Lake County Crash Reconstruction Team, whereby each participating unit will enhance and fulfill their mutual aid responsibilities to support and maintain the South Lake County Crash Reconstruction Team. Mr. Schilling made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2022-06-22B. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Resolution No. 2022-06-22C: Consider a Resolution approving the transfer of the Warren Total Patcher T-7500 to the Town of Cedar Lake.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this resolution will replace Resolution 2022-04-27D and allows the Town of St. John to sell the Warren Total Patcher to the Town of Cedar Lake for the agreed upon amount of $18,000.00. Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2022-06-22C. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.Motion to Accept a Letter of Credit for The Preserve Phase 6 in the amount of $447,918.90
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that this comes to the Council with a favorable recommendation from the Plan Commission. Mr. Aurelio made a motion to accept a Letter of Credit for The Preserve Phase 6 in the amount of $447,918.90. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 4 ayes, 0 nays. Mr. Schilling abstained from the vote.
Motion to Accept a Letter of Credit for Sublime Estates in the amount of $38,005.00
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that this comes to the Council with a favorable recommendation from the Plan Commission. Mr. Blazak made a motion to accept a Letter of Credit for Sublime Estates in the amount of $38,005.00. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Motion to Accept the Uniform Conflict of Interest Statement for Clifford Wroe
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that Mr. Wroe is the Assistant IT Director and action is taken annually. Mr. Blazak made a motion to accept the Uniform Conflict of Interest Statement for Clifford Wroe. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Motion to Approve Robinson Engineering as Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Engineer and to authorize the Town Attorney to draft an agreement and authorize the Town Council President to execute same for stated purposes.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that the Town was in need of an engineer for MS4 and Robinson Engineering was recommended for that role. Mr. Pondinas asked about the contract with rates and recommends waiting until the contract is received. Mr. Westland explained that the Town could appoint Robinson Engineering but there should be some type of hourly rate or sum negotiated as part of the motion. Mr. Wiszowaty recommended the Council move to approve, subject to the rates. Mr. Pondinas made a motion to approve Robinson Engineering as Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Engineer, pending a quote on the rate information. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Town Council:
Michael Aurelio – He thanked the Economic Development Committee for their hard work on the Freedom Fest, which takes place on July 3rd. He also invited everyone listening to attend and enjoy. He thanked the Council for approving the riverfront district.
Wayne Pondinas – Skate Park is going along well. They are working on the sanitary side of the SCADA system.
Gerald Swets – Tri-Town Safety Village will be holding a car show on Sunday, July 17 at Redar Park. For sponsorship, reach out to the Tri-Town Safety Village. Mr. Swets had received some questions from residents about Earl Drive behind McDonalds and the conditions of that road. Although it is not the Town’s road, they should come up with some type of solution and would like to start discussions. A discussion ensued as to the history of the road and expectations. Mr. Westland advises against negotiations for purchasing the property. He suggested an Executive Session to review possible steps. Mr. Pondinas continued with the history of the agreement and the interpretation of maintenance. Mr. Swets thanked Ms. Hernandez for how she reported the Tax Distributions and her efforts in the layout.
Clerk-Treasurer - Beth Hernandez – Ms. Hernandez reported that they received their Spring 2022 Tax Distributions a little early. Ms. Hernandez noted that they submitted their pre-budget worksheets to be uploaded into Gateway. Mr. Aurelio mentioned the new logo for the Clerk-Treasurer and complimented its design.
Town Manager - Joseph Wiszowaty – Due to the hot summer weather conditions, the Town of St. John is taking a proactive approach to water management and conservation. Effective immediately, they are implementing the following sprinkling management plan for residents and businesses:
The sprinkler plan is temporary and residents are asked to comply at this time. The Town of St. John will notify residents when the plan is curtailed via the website at www.stjohnin.gov. The Town has also suspended its bulk water purchasing to conserve water for community use. The Town Splash Pad will remain operational; however, staff will be adjusting hours, if necessary, to ensure the Town has an adequate water supply. Notifications are being mailed to the residents in their water bills. Cooperation in helping conserve water in the high summer demand is appreciated. The Town of St. John continues to work to improve its water capacity, storage and treatment facilities, to meet the demands. Mr. Wiszowaty shared statistical information on the water usage. With regards to fireworks, Mr. Wiszowaty asked residents to be courteous to neighbors and to be safe this Independence Day.
Mr. Swets referred to an email received recently, with regards to Well 9 and the permit received. Mr. Blazak asked if the permit for Well 8 had been received. Mr. Pondinas explained how the permits were granted and the steps to be taken to get them all on-line.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 27th Day of July, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Town Council Regular Meeting - June 22, 2022
Town Council Special Study Session – September 8, 2021
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the June 22, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes and the September 8, 2021 Special Study Session Minutes. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Westland opened the one (1) bid received from Milestone Construction, Griffith, Indiana for a total base bid of $845,543.75. Mr. Swets added that this bid would be reviewed by the engineers and the Town Manager.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to refer the bid to staff. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
4.B. Purchase of New Ambulance through BuyBoard with a favorable recommendation from the Safety Board in the amount of $318,987.00 and to authorize the Clerk-Treasurer to remit payment from the appropriate account.
Chief LaDuke informed the Council that Dave Cole from North Central Emergency is present. He added that there was a review of four (4) vendors and decided on Osage from North Central. This purchase is not in the budget, nor the 5-year plan for two (2) years, as it will be two (2) years before it is received. It will replace a truck that will be twelve (12) years old at that time. The Council received the proposal packet for review. Chief LaDuke wanted to discuss the financing of the truck as in the past, the purchases would be through cash and suggested financing the truck. He noted that the fund now has $120,000 and that fund generates about $70,200 per year. Chief LaDuke suggested paying this out of Ambulance Cum and finance it. Ms. Hernandez stated that the 5 year plan had about $50,000 coming from Public Safety. Chief LaDuke noted that the Fire Department has another ambulance planned for the following year but plans to move that further into the future because the Ambulance Cum won’t be able to support it. He added that they would have a seven (7) year replacement. The idea is to keep the box and replace the frame as that is how this new unit is built. Mr. Blazak asked about the lead time for completion. Mr. Cole stepped up to explain that every ambulance manufacturer relies on a commercial chassis, mainly from Ford. Normal delivery time would have been about 280 days, 2 to 3 years ago, however, at this time, the industry is looking at over two (2) years for delivery and is at the mercy of the OEM chassis. Mr. Cole added that many municipalities have accelerated their 5 year plans by increasing their order amount, which creates a larger backlog. The chassis is a Ford F550 diesel, 4-wheel drive and the box is semi-customed to meet specific needs. Chief LaDuke provided some of the customization on this unit to include UV disinfectants, air purification, 360 camera, and seatbelts in the back. Mr. Wiszowaty asked what the plan is for the unit that is being replaced, to which Chief LaDuke responded that they could try trading it in but doesn’t have much confidence it would be worth much. He also added that it might be a good idea to just keep it as backup if it is still serviceable. Mr. Swets asked about the funding and added that the Town could review the existing fund, what is anticipated to be received in the next two years, and the suggestion going forward. Ms. Hernandez responded that the fund will be at the mark by 2024, however, tight. There is a $440,000 balance in Public Safety, so it’s possible to use more than $50,000 out of that fund, therefore, it may not need to be financed. Chief LaDuke interjected that there are other expenses that come out of the ambulance fund, such as, repairs, and the service agreement for equipment and supply. Mr. Wiszowaty asked for timing on replacing the next ambulance as the fund balance will be cleared out in two years. Chief LaDuke responded it was in the 5 year plan to have another one the following year, however, would not be prudent. Mr. Swets asked about the required deposit. Mr. Cole responded that there is a $1,000 discount if the chassis is prepaid to the manufacturer. Chief LaDuke added that the purchase would include the Town joining BuyBoard which is similar to Sourcewell. Mr. Pondinas asked if the price could go up based on supply. Mr. Cole responded that the Osage product and components are locked in at a price, however Ford is not locked in. They’ve experienced up to $2,200 increases from Ford. Mr. Blazak asked why the chassis would be replaced after 7 to 10 years. Chief LaDuke explained that the chassis takes a lot of wear-and-tear due to use and speed. Mr. Schilling noted that prior to granting a motion for the purchase of the ambulance there is an item on the agenda to join BuyBoard for the purchase. Mr. Aurelio asked what the cost of the chassis is from the total proposed price. Mr. Cole responded that the chassis and the suspension is about $80,000 and if the chassis is prepaid, and the VIN is available, there would be a $1,000 discount from the manufacturer and the price should remain stable. The action was tabled until later in the meeting.
1. Motion to Approve a Use Variance pursuant to Section 24-614(g) for the 9501 Wicker Avenue for the use of a club/lodge within the US 41 Overlay District. BZA2022-10 Favorable Recommendation with no conditions/contingencies.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this approval is for the American Legion’s use and would be appropriate for the Council to entertain a motion. The attorney is present to speak on behalf of the American Legion.
Alex Kutinowski, 1504 N. Main Street, Crown Point, IN – He stated that he is here to answer any questions. Mr. Swets asked if they were concerned with traffic issues in that location. Mr. Kutinowski responded that they found no issues based on their review but are willing to work with the Town should there be any complaints. The American Legion is not planning any exterior changes to the property. Mr. Pondinas asked if they will apply for a liquor license. Once they are moved in they would apply for a fraternal license. Mr. Aurelio noted that the area falls into the Riverfront District, which allows for a discounted liquor license. Mr. Pondinas expressed his appreciation to each of the Legion members for their service to the country. He also thanked them for taking an interest in St. John. Mr. Aurelio also thanked the members for their service and noted the privilege for the Legion choosing St. John and offered any assistance necessary. Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the special Use Variance at 9501 Wicker Avenue. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this Ordinance reduces the water rate by 1.48%. This action is due to the Indiana Enrolled Act 1002 which authorized the repeal of the Utility Receipts Tax (URT), mandating this reduction.
Mr. Westland confirmed the proofs of publication are in order.
Mr. Swets opened the floor to public comment with regards to Ordinance No. 1772. There were no public comments. Mr. Swets closed the floor to public comment.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1772. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Accounts Payable Voucher. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
A. Ordinance No. 1773: Consider on First Reading an Ordinance Declaring Fund 8853, Entitled Escrow Clearing/Reimbursement Fund, Dormant and Authorizing the Transfer of Surplus Proceeds to the General Fund
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this comes at the request of the Clerk-Treasurer to revise the fund balance in this account to $86,786.20. If these funds are declared dormant, the Town could consider these for CCMG match, as it came in higher than expected. Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1773 on first reading. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1773. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
B. Ordinance No. 1774: Consider on First Reading an Ordinance Amending Ordinance 1696 Pertaining to Establishing A Personnel Policy and Procedure Manual for the Employees of the Town of St. John, Lake County, Indiana.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this action amends the schedule on the firefighters’ vacation. It currently states 15 to 20 years and it should have stated 15 to 19 years. This will correct that milestone at 20 years and will be retroactive to January 1st so there is no impact on the firefighter staff. Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1774 on first reading. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1774. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
C. Resolution No. 2022-07-27A: a Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of St. John, Lake County, Indiana, Establishing the Town of St. John Riverfront Development Project Area
Mr. Wiszowaty noted that Phil Faccenda, Attorney, is present virtually for questions. Mr. Wiszowaty stated that this is the final action to create the Riverfront District. This action finalizes the boundaries for the district which allows for nontransferable permits to sell alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption. It will assist the Town in economic development by securing developers which require liquor licenses at a reasonable expense. The Town is looking to provide the residents and visitors of St. John options for dining and entertainment. The city of Valparaiso started this process in 1999 and by 2005, transformed their Downtown Historic District into a dining destination and the Town of St. John is seeking similar results. There are several steps prior to the liquor licenses being issued, which include establishing guidelines and procedures, of which the attorney is currently working on. Mr. Faccenda clarified that tonight’s action adopts the district, but will require future action. The Council will need to consider guidelines for granting the licenses, such as, consideration of percentage of food to alcohol sales and hours of operation. He confirmed the guidelines will be drafted and shared with the Council. The Council then adopts the guidelines at a future meeting. Mr. Aurelio asked about the timeline or process for State action. Mr. Faccenda responded that once the guidelines are adopted, the State is simply alerted.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2022-07-27A. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
D. Resolution No. 2022-07-27B: a Resolution Approving Proposals for Police Directed Towing Services in the Town of St. John, Indiana
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this received a favorable recommendation from the Board of Safety for a two year towing agreement with Kubiak Services, Inc. and Stan’s Body Shop and Towing, Inc. Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2022-07-27B. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
E. Resolution No. 2022-07-27C a Resolution Amending the Towing Guidelines for the Town of St. John Increasing the “Not to Exceed” Amount Assessed for Towing Services.
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that this received a favorable recommendation from the Board of Safety to increase the towing fees from an amount not to exceed $125 to an amount not to exceed $185 for vehicles under 10,000 lbs. Mr. Schilling made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2022-07-27C. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
F. Resolution No. 2022-07-27D: a Resolution Authorizing and Approving the Town of St. John, Lake County, Indiana to enter into a cooperative purchasing agreement (d/b/a BuyBoard).
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this similar to the cooperative agreement the Town has with Sourcewell and provides the Town another option to purchase equipment without having to go out for competitive bidding. Mr. Schilling asked if there was a cost associated with it to which Mr. Wiszowaty responded that there was not. Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2022-07-27D. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Wayne Pondinas: The SKADA system is up and running. The sanitary panels are being tested and once complete, they will start the installation. They started the drilling on Well 9 today. In the Request to Purchases there was something for Well House 3, 4 and 5 for air conditioning. He is out at the skate park every day and it is going well and getting many compliments. Gatlin started the U.S. 41 culvert project and should be done by mid to late October. They had a Vector truck demo last week and both the Sanitary and Water Boards were in favor of it. He addressed the public comments at meetings saying the public should have the right to make comments and not to limit them to 3 minutes. Mr. Swets responded that they’ve never had to institute the 3-minute rule and the Council is flexible with the agenda. He said it was more of a guideline.
Michael Schilling: Mr. Schilling requested a moment of silence for the passing of Michael Muenich who served on the Volunteer Fire Department. Also, Jerry Spohn who served 30 years on the Volunteer Fire Department and worked in the Public Works Department. A moment of silence was held.
Mike Aurelio: He commended the Economic Development Committee for their hard work in putting together the Freedom Fest. By the time the fireworks were shot off, there were over 2,000 in attendance. He looks forward to seating the Park Advisory Committee members and spoke with the Park Superintendent to look at adding events and the Park improvements. He noted that he approached the Economic Development Committee to address the K-Mart property and formulating a plan for the use of it. He thanked the Council for approving the Riverfront District as it will be the economic engine for the Town. He added that the Town is comprised of 95% residential and are in desperate need of commercial and industrial.
Bryan Blazak: The MS4 Board had its first meeting last week. There is a lot of experience on that Board and things are underway with respect to advice and guidelines for moving forward.
Gerald Swets: There was a meeting at the Tri-Town Safety Village today and they will try offering some adult education. Right now, the offering is through the school systems. They will begin offering evening class for adults once a month to include CPR Classes and other safety issues. Chief LaDuke sits on the Board and brought up some great ideas. He noted that he also serves on NIRPC, Northern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, and in their last Board meeting, they discussed additional funding that will be coming down within the next couple of months for additional road projects, bike paths and walking paths.
Clerk-Treasurer – Beth Hernandez: She reported that two investments had matured, one on July 11th and the other on July 13th, the proceeds totaling about $3,013,000. Based on current CPI numbers and expectations for increased fed rate hikes, it was decided to stay shorter again. Treasuries were the best on the short end, so the Town reinvested $1.5 million in a 6 month at 2.810% and $1.512 million in a 9 month at 3%. All of the required steps have been finalized to re-establish the CCD Fund for 2023, by the Clerk’s office. Notification was received from the DLGF on July 15th that it is re-established at $.05 per $100.00 of assessed value, so it is certified and ready for the 2023 Budget. The First Midwest Bank/Old National Bank merger hasn’t been seamless from the customer aspect and there were roughly 350 utility customers that were affected by the merger. All of the accounts have been updated and appropriated as far as routing numbers are concerned with assistance from Invoice Cloud. Any affected employees have been notified that they will receive a live check next pay cycle due to the routing number change. The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), through the Arts Organization’s Support Grant Program has formally rewarded a $3,900 grant. Tom Hocker, the photographer requested the Clerk’s assistance to apply for the grant following the approval of the Council. Mr. Hocker is now able to proceed with the project.
Town Manager - Joseph Wiszowaty: Gatlin began Phase 1, which is the removal of the water and sewer main at U.S. 41 and should be completed by August 23rd. The State’s contractor, Goff, will begin their culvert removal and replacement, which is expected to take 21 days. Once completed, Phase 2 will begin with Gatlin to replace the water and sanitary lines. Completion should be about 28 days or October 12th. Milestone should then be able to complete the remainder of the project on U.S. 41, by the end of October. The St. John Police Department recently hired Officer Jarrett Stickle, from the Cedar Lake Police Department. Officer Stickle replaced Officer Sidenbender who retired after 25 years of dedicated service. Officer Stickle is expected to be on solo patrol within the next couple of weeks. The Police Department will also be acquiring an MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) Armored Vehicle from the Terre Haute Police Department through the Department of Defense, to be used primarily for SWAT. The Town will take possession of the vehicle in the next week, and it will be stored in either the Public Works garage or Animal Control garage. St. John Fire Department is pleased to announce the promotions of Scott Clifford and Mike Haney. The Building Department has conducted interviews to fill a vacant seat left by the electrical inspector. Also, this month, the Town has issued 57 new construction permits in the month of July, compared to 49 for July, 2021. The new construction permit fees collected total $529,000 for July. Year to date, it is about $4.2 million, compared to $4.9 million for the same period in 2021. The Building Department drafted 2 requests for services: one for update to the Town’s thoroughfare plan and the other for creation of an economic development plan. They’ve been working with developers and engineers to refine the development proposals of Streamside, a 54 single lot subdivision, and Astoria, which is a 90 single family lot subdivision. The Plan Commission granted preliminary plat approval for the St. John Commons, a $20,000,000 mixed use development investment. Code Enforcement brought in approximately 15 code violations into compliance and issued 5 citations, fines for failure to comply. Finally, in meetings with the Department Heads, a review of the 2023 Budget is completed. Cender Dalton will assist with putting these together along with a review with the Clerk-Treasurer and then the Town Council. A draft budget will be completed sometime in August and will be submitted for Council’s consideration.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 24th Day of August, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager
Michael Schilling, Councilman arrived at 6:32 p.m.
Michael Aurelio, Councilman was absent at roll call.
Starting with the Police Department, they considered the two (2) Additional Squads & Outfit for $120,000 and two (2) Portable and one (1) Mobile Radio for $7,330. For any new staffing requests in the Police Department and the Fire Department, they would be managed through the Budget process as the expenses would continue to incur long beyond the ARPA funding. He added that the Police and Fire Departments have grant opportunities for personnel, which should be utilized.
With respect to the Fire Department, Mr. Wiszowaty stated the priority ranking is for the Structural Bunker Gear for about $378,000. The Building Construction is not a priority but if there are things that need to be done, there are other avenues to take for funding. The New Hire Equipment would be a priority ranking, however if new personnel is budgeted for 2023, the equipment could be included. The other priority ranking would be the Ballistic Vests for $15,000.
Next is the Parks and Recreation Department, and they analyzed the 5 year plan and the Town’s budget. The Pickle Ball Courts were included there, however, it was underfunded, so they decided to spend $200,000, as there is already some money accounted for. The Pavilion at Gates Park is being considered for $200,000, which would include washroom facility. They will be repaving some Pathways for $40,800 as a priority. The total for the Parks and Rec Department is $440,800.
The next topic is for the Not for Profits and as all of the items are included within the budget, they will not be considered for ARPA funding.
For the IT, Building and Planning and Admin Departments, the first item, six (6) Tornado Sirens proposed, but it is recommended to do two (2) right now within the ARPA funds, including the associated electric work, for $93,600. The next item, the Police Department Server already has $25,000 appropriated for it. Mr. Dravet noted that the last time he ran a cost analysis for a server it came in as $55,000. Mr. Wiszowaty then noted that another $25,000 can be deducted. An essential priority is the Building and Planning Software/Hardware in order for the department to function more efficiently. Building and Planning proposed two (2) vehicles, one of which will be appropriated within the 2023 budget. Also proposed is a vehicle for Admin, which would allow Clerk-Treasurer’s Office and Town Manager’s Office the ability to utilize the vehicle to travel to the County Building, the Bank, etc. At this time the Town does not have a pool vehicle so staff uses their own vehicles, which is not best practice.
(Michael Aurelio, Councilman, and Dave Westland, Town Attorney, joined the meeting at 6:42 p.m.)
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that Lake County presented a proposal to expand the Joliet Street Bridge, which would expand it by one (1) lane and allows for better roadway usage of the property, because once the culvert is added, it will be more expensive to remove it to expand the road. It is recommended to complete this project now at $200,000. For the Joliet Street Bridge and Oakwood Drive Stormwater, the Town will be seeking alternate funding sources for the next year, and hold off for now. For the Repaving of 93rd from Marquette to Blaine, the Town would want to use these additional funds to possibly do a CCMG grant for 2023, as it will involve more of an in-depth construction process, possibly a full-depth reclamation. The other 93rd project, from Clairmont to Marquette would be appropriate to have milled down and filled. The Town would be using some of the resources from Lake County and Schererville from the 85th project. Public Works is requesting two (2) dump trucks as the two (2) the Town has are pretty old. The Town has been discussing a Salt Barn, and the Property for it, which was originally considered at $250,000 for the cost, however, the cost to acquire the property must also be considered, therefore the request is increased to $550,000. Lastly, the 85th Project from Alexander to Lake Hills is for a full-depth reclamation and there are bids out for it tonight. Mr. Wiszowaty noted that he increased the amount to $750,000.
The last item is the CCMG Grant Match for 2023. If the Town includes that with the other projects, it brings the total to $700,000. This brings the 2023 total closer to $1,000,000, which would be available for 2023 projects.
In total it is at $4,200,000 of recommendations to consider, however, the Town is still receiving public input. The next step would be for the Town Council to approve a plan appropriating the money for the loss of revenue in a resolution. The following step would be a public hearing for the appropriations, followed by an ordinance to appropriate the funds.
Mr. Pondinas asked about the repaving of the pathways and how a specific contractor moved his materials in his truck using the Settlers Court pathway and whether that is the reason for needing $40,000 to repave it. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that he didn’t think it is the same area, however, he would look into it. Mr. Wiszowaty added that similar situations are occurring at Heartland Park as well.
Mr. Pondinas asked if there was any consideration to give some of this money to employees, like $500-$1,000 for working through Covid. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that there was proposal for it but that it wasn’t a high priority. He also added that if the Town Council wanted to consider it, it could be revisited. Mr. Pondinas asked about the Vac Truck in Public Works. He noted that the current Vac Truck may not last 2 years and that both Sanitary and Water are in favor of looking at options. Mr. Wiszowaty added the Vac Truck as a note, and if the Town Council wants to consider it, the information is available.
Mr. Swets asked about the software and that there are numbers listed for 2023 and 2024. Mr. Dravet explained it was a phased-in approach for the modules that will be needed at the time for implementation. The plan is to start with Building & Planning base modules. The next year it may be determined to add other modules to increase efficiency in other departments over time. Mr. Swets asked if this expense would be included in the budget instead, but Mr. Dravet noted that it could be included with ARPA since the Town has 3 to 4 years to spend the fund.
Mr. Aurelio stated that his understanding of the ARPA money is that is it a one-shot deal, and once it is spent, it is gone. Therefore, as much as he would like to add employees in Fire and Police, the expense would not be sustainable once this fund is used up. Mr. Wiszowaty added that was the reason those expenses would be fit into the budget instead, which should be evident in August. He also added that if the Town finds those new hires cannot fit within the budget, it may come back to the Town Council for options. Mr. Swets stated that he would like to see those budget numbers as he is interested in the public safety side of ARPA, over some of the other items listed. He added that he would like to see more police and fire and equip them properly.
Mr. Kohut also asked about the three-way intersection at 101st and Blaine, where there is one stop sign. The directions going east and west don’t have to stop and asked if stop signs could be added there for safety. Mr. Wiszowaty pointed out that the intersection is not in the Town.
Mr. Kohut brought up the subject of the water rationing and asked if the Town could hook up to Lake Michigan. He said that the well will dry up with all of the new developments. Mr. Swets explained that the Town was not rationing water, but rotating days to eliminate large draws at once. Mr. Kohut noted that new sod needs to be watered every day to which Mr. Swets responded that the system could handle that and it was not a problem. Mr. Swets added that only so much water can be held in the tanks and that the well is not going dry. Mr. Kohut added that the water pressure was not good. Mr. Swets stated that the issue is based on individual neighborhoods. Mr. Pondinas suggested it may be because of the filter in the water softener. Mr. Kohut responded that the water is outside, not going through a water filter.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 24th Day of August, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Donna Little, Clerk-Treasurer’s Office, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager
Bryan Blazak, Councilman, was absent. Town Attorney, Dave Westland was not present.
Ms. Hudson, Cender Dalton, explained that the amount was adjusted to account for a supplemental $8,000 plus change that came in, which added to the total. This ordinance is the final step required before the appropriation can occur for the Town to spend the money. The plan is simply affecting the category of Proposed Uses for the Provisions of Governmental Services using Revenue Loss Funds. There is no reason the plan has to indicate the exact distribution of expense as the distribution will be decided by the Town Council once this plan adoption step is finalized. If the Town had decided to divide expenses to any of the other categories, then that would have to have been put in the plan as well, but there is no reason to do that. Using the category of Revenue Loss Funds allows for the freedom to spend it on the Town’s needs.
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that the appropriation will be set in September, following the adoption on second reading at the August 24th meeting. The Town Council will hold a public hearing for the appropriation of these funds. Any public comments received before the August 24th meeting will be provided to the Town Council. The information for submitting comments is available on the Town’s website.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1775 on first reading. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
(Mr. Swets realized that the Roll Call had not been taken and continued to do so. Attendees are listed in Roll Call above.)
Mr. Wiszowaty noted that the bigger questions are about the money. He added that the Town has $2.3 million of the $5.5 million earmarked already in bond money. The other question is regarding road impact fee money, to which Mr. Cobb responded, no.
Remaining Activities:US 41 Conceptual Lighting Proposal:
The Town requested a cost for conceptual light layouts for the section of US 41 from Wall Street to 97th Lane/Earl Street. Three alternatives were developed:
These lighting costs are not included in the project cost above.
Mr. Swets asked if the three (3) projects could be broken up or do they all have to be done at the same time. Mr. Cobb responded that there would be some duplication of work, e.g. the traffic signals, which may affect the cost. When working on the Keilman portion, they would be dropping the road down about a foot in order to put in the curb and gutter. That drop will affect the intersection at 93rd. Continued discussion ensued to include movement of a water line at 93rd and US 41.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 24th Day of August, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Councilman Wayne Pondinas joined the meeting virtually. Roll call votes were taken pursuant to Ordinance No. 1737 for Electronic Meetings Policy.
A quorum was attained.
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager, and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Mark Shaw, 12990 Sunflower Avenue: Mr. Shaw stated that he is opposed to the Walsh’s application for the use variance. To minimize the potential for future similar applications for use variance, he asked the Town Council to consider clarifying St. John Town Code, Section 3-1 Definitions, Kennel or Cattery, by amending it to the following or similar language: Kennel or Cattery-1. A commercial kennel is any premises wherein any person engages in the business of boarding, breeding, buying, letting for hire, training for a fee, or selling any number of dogs or cats; 2. A non-commercial kennel is any premises wherein any person owns, harbors, possesses, cares for, or keeps in custody six (6) or more dogs and/or cats without financial remuneration; 3. All kennels, whether classified as commercial or non-commercial, are subject to the permit requirements found in the St. John Town Code, Section 3-4 Permits, and are prohibited from any zone classified as residential. He provided the Council with a written copy of his statement.
Denise Snyder, 8847 Schilton Drive: Ms. Snyder appeared before the Council to express her opposition to the use variance for the operation of the dog daycare and boarding business, by Mr. and Mrs. Walsh, renters of the property at 12930 Snowberry Lane. As the Board of Zoning Appeals had denied the use variance, she asked the Council to also consider a denial for the same. She added that the Walsh’s reported at the BZA meeting that they were unaware they were required to obtain a license to own a business from their home. She noted that the Walsh’s are still operating the business as of today, as witnessed by much of the surrounding neighbors.
Bill Manousopoulos, 10011 Parrish: Mr. Manousopoulos asked if the detailed appropriation of the ARPA funds will be provided to the residents. He asked if the Council planned on holding a study session with the details on the redistricting process with public involvement. He added that he has noticed more businesses that are from Illinois and asked why St. John is not trying to attract vendors from Indiana.
Frank Bradtke, 13000 Sunflower Avenue: Mr. Bradtke stated he attended the BZA meeting regarding the doggie daycare, requesting a variance in the subdivision. He stated that he is opposed to it as it is a residential subdivision and there should not be a variance granted to run a business out of a home, especially to someone who is not a homeowner.
Paul Schindler, 12701 Goldenrod: Mr. Schindler stated that he has been living the Town for 27 years and they have commercial residents, The Walsh’s, who rent the property. He noted that they should go somewhere else. He stated that the Walsh’s reported at the BZA meeting that they had been living and operating their business there for a year and a half. He asked why they hadn’t been cited for operating a business without a license.
Pam Paun, 8761 Schilton Drive: Ms. Paun stated that they are fairly new in the Town and that they love it. She added that she opposes the variance as it is a residential area. As it is a place of business, it should be kept in a business area.
1. A Proclamation acknowledging the month of September as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, 2022
Mr. Swets read the Proclamation to those present.
Mr. Pondinas questioned why Mr. Dravet, IT, completed the RTP for a fracture trace analysis, which is associated with water. Mr. Pondinas also asked about the one from V3 Companies which refers to a primary plat of subdivision at Gates Park for $6,992, signed by Mr. Wiszowaty, and whether it is normal to the Town to pay for one. Mr. Wiszowaty explained it was for subdividing the Gates Park into two (2) parcels. Mr. Pondinas then asked about the importance of Archive Social yearly renewal as he noted it was questioned whether it was a good idea for the Town’s Facebook, Instagram, etc. He asked if the Town used it in the last year. Mr. Dravet responded that it is very important to archive all of the Social Media accounts so that FOIA requests could be properly answered. Without the software, the manual process would be arduous. Mr. Dravet stated that to his recollection, it had been used at least three (3) times in the past year. Mr. Dravet addressed the increase in cost by noting that last year the Town was archiving on average, 500 comments per month, and this year there are from 750 to 1,000 comments per month.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to pay the 14 RTP’s for $171,718.67. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Mr. Aurelio questioned some of the items on the docket, requesting additional details. He asked about the AT&T Corp. bills and the inability to match invoices to the docket. Ms. Hernandez explained that some of the invoices are divided into multiple departments. Mr. Aurelio then addressed some NIPSCO bills and that many are late while others overpaid. Ms. Hernandez explained the process of receipt dates and when they get processed. She also explained that NIPSCO combined certain streetlight accounts which would address the appearance of overpayments on some of the invoices. She added that her department had been trying, unsuccessfully, to have NIPSCO combine the accounts. Mr. Aurelio asked about some bills applied to a CATV Promotional fund when they appeared to be Park expenses, specifically, some toys and T-Shirts for Movie in the Park. Ms. Hernandez explained that Parks has events, the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office will do events, and the EDC will do events. The particular Movie in the Park referenced for September 9th is not a Park event, therefore not appropriate to take the funds out of the Park Department. Cable TV is not a tax payer funded account, but funded by a franchise fee and the promotional fund has paid for things like the flags displayed around Town, the 911 display on the front lawn, and the Movie in the Park on September 9th.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the Accounts Payable Voucher for $2,467,881.88. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-abstain, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 4/0 with 1 abstention.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1778 on second reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is adopted 5/0.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2022-08-24. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Mr. Wiszowaty stated this matter is coming to the Town Council with an unfavorable recommendation from the BZA. For the record, the Town received a letter opposed to the use variance. Mr. Swets added that the Council had received three emails as well. Mr. Wiszowaty noted these would all be added to the record.
Mr. Blazak stated that since it involves the BZA and the Plan Commission for review and recommendation, he asked their legal counsel to draw up what is necessary to revise the subdivision control ordinance and also review any businesses moving in or out that may be involved in any type of puppy mill operation, what it legally involves and what it will require. Mr. Swets added that the type of kennel is defined as the commenter noted tonight.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to deny the use variance for 12930 Snowberry Lane for a dog kennel. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is denied 5/0.
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that this master agreement is a cost-saving method for the major engineering projects. The Town has been paying hourly rates for engineering services, which can get expensive over the term. The master agreement allows the Town to contain the billable hours by processing the projects as a percentage of the cost of the project.
Mr. Pondinas asked about the verbiage under Controlling Law; Venue, and that is says the State of Illinois/Will County, when it should say Lake County, Indiana. He also noted the agreement was signed by Robinson Engineering on August 1, 2022 and that he just received this last night. He asked about the delay in receipt and the timing. Mr. Swets asked if Mr. Pondinas was requesting the documents as they come in or receive them all a couple of days prior to the meeting. Mr. Schilling added that Mr. Pondinas has been asking for two and half years to have the documents in a timely fashion. Mr. Pondinas added that there are two girls working in the office and the Council gets the information at the last second. He added that today they brought more items to his house. He questioned the management. He also stated that the document should have been proofread.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to defer the Master Engineering Agreement. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is deferred 5/0.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this agreement is part of the redistricting required due to the population result of the census. He introduced the representative from Veridus Group, Jack Woods, Project Analyst. Mr. Woods referred to a presentation of their scope of work. As the census was completed in 2020, the Town is required to complete the redistricting by December 31, 2022. Due to the large population growth since the last census, adding greater than 5,000 new residents, he’s confident the wards have been affected over the past ten (10) years. There are six (6) goals that the State Constitution lays out.
The Ideal Population would be dividing the population by the three (3) wards and maintaining a deviation as close to 0% of the sum of the Ideal Population. The process includes the due diligence of reviewing the census and the existing ward boundaries, collecting GIS data, and holding stakeholder meetings with Town Staff, which would take less than a month. They would then create three (3) different redistricting options for review, apply any feedback collected, and present it at a public meeting. The Town would create an initial Ordinance, once the desired version of the ward maps is selected. Following a meeting with the Town attorney, hold a final meeting to approve the Ordinance. Mr. Woods is confident, based on the timeline, to be completed by the end of October, 2022.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve an Agreement with Veridus Group and to authorize the Town Council President to execute the Agreement. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that the Town has an old boat and trailer that has not been used and is stored in the garage. The Fire Department would like to advertise it for sale.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve and declare property surplus and authorize the disposition of such property by advertising its sale pursuant to Indiana law. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Mr. Blazak made motion to approve the conveyance of ownership and tendering of a Service Weapon to retired Officer Brett Sidenbender upon execution of the required Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve an addition for the Skate Park and approve installation of concrete in the center of the Pump Track by Landscaper Services of Illinois, LLC in the amount of $20,150.00. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to waive the vendor fees for the Fire Department Open House. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve an Independent Contractor Agreement with Patrick Tortorici for Parks and Recreation Department activities. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
At the EDC meeting, Sergio Mendoza presented information for a Future Development Workshop scheduled for September 21st, at the Public Safety Building, from 6pm to 8:30pm. The RDC, the Town Council, the Plan Commission, the BZA, the EDC, stakeholders and Boards are invited to learn how to plan strategically in making St. John the best it can be.
Wayne Pondinas:Clerk-Treasurer – Beth Hernandez:
The 3-year levy excess growth appeal - For clarification, a unit qualifies to seek a 3-year growth appeal if its average assessed value growth over the last 3 years exceeds the State-wide average, maximum levy growth quotient for the same time period by at least 2%. The Town will most likely be eligible for the 3-year excess levy growth appeal once again this year. The Town’s max levy would increase by roughly $258,000 for civil, $18,000 for sanitary, and $14,000 for water. She wanted to make sure everyone was aware of it, as applications must be submitted by October 19th. Additionally, the Council would need to adopt a resolution at the next meeting. Ms. Hudson, Cender Dalton, asked if the population portion was separated out of the statute. Ms. Hernandez responded that she didn’t have the answer and would look into it, but that the Town had met the requirements for the last two years. Ms. Hudson noted that this is the first year the 2020 census numbers are available, which may affect the outcome. Ms. Hernandez suggested the effort be made to apply for the money.
Town Manager - Joseph Wiszowaty:Study Session – 2023 Budget:
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that they have some preliminary numbers for the 2023 budget for consideration which begins January 1. Mr. Wiszowaty distributed the supporting documents to the Council and a summary of the budget was displayed on the screens.
(Mr. Westland left the meeting at 8:39 p.m.)
Ms. Hudson, Cender Dalton, led the discussion on the proposed 2023 budget and noted the budget is still a work in progress and they are working toward a balanced budget. Ms. Hudson stated that she wanted to run through the revenues versus expenditures, highlight some items, and spend as much time as possible on the requests the department heads submitted, so the Council understand why the requests in the General Fund may be different from prior years. Most of the funds do have a cash balance in them, so there is the ability to spend more money than revenues coming in for this year, however, not recommended. It is prudent to build the cash balances so that the Town has room for emergencies and unexpected needs. The goal is to have no negative balances in the Revenues Over/(Under) Expenditures column prior to the public hearing. It is important that the revenues don’t include money previously mentioned in the appeal, in case the Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) doesn’t approve them, however, at the time the numbers are suggested for the publication of the Form 3, those extra revenues will be included so that the Town is advertising for as much as possible. She added that Ms. Hernandez provided the list of revenues she anticipates and the DLGF has released additional estimates since then, so it remains a moving target.
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that the department heads spent a lot of time and effort to work on their department budgets. He added that he will be working with the Clerk-Treasurer’s office to make sure the numbers line up to expectations.
Ms. Hudson continued to say that the department heads ask about raises each year, therefore the expenditures will be a little higher than last year. There are a few places where the engineering costs are increased, based on additional projects to be considered. The Police and Fire Departments had the most additional requests, e.g., replacement of aging equipment and the pay structure in the FD. Ms. Hernandez asked about re-establishing the Cum Fire account and discussion ensued. In PD and FD, there is still conversation about additional hires. Mr. Wiszowaty added that they are accounting for 2 additional hires for each Police and Fire. Ms. Hudson continued to say fuel costs will be higher than usual. Insurance has increased for both vehicle and health. Mr. Wiszowaty added that the Town will be looking at rates in the fall as well as a different alternative for the health coverage. Additional discussion on insurance ensued. Ms. Hudson continued with the concerns in Police for increased costs for supplies, e.g., ammunition. Ms. Hudson addressed a concern she had with the trash collection funds, as it is lopsided, with the expenditures verses revenue collected, which may need to be investigated. Ms. Hernandez added that the Town charges the residents exactly what the vendor charges the Town, therefore, there is no surplus.
Ms. Hudson moved to the topic of the draft Storm Water Study and stated that she was involved in an organizational meeting to discuss storm water. If the Town is to consider a storm water fee, it is recommended to go through the county property tax bills. It would save the Clerk’s office the paperwork, but more importantly, it is a fee that the county would process on the property tax bill. The underlying need for the storm water fee is that the State requires the Town to process through the MS4 items, the environmental requirements for drainage and environmental controls for run-off water. Currently, the Town doesn’t have a way to fund that process. The Town will then be able to fund necessary drainage projects beyond the State requirements. Ms. Hudson referred to an initial draft of the Summary of Parcel Quantities by Property Class Code that are within the Town, provided some detail, and how the codes are important. As for the timeline, the county requires all billing items the Town is including to be submitted by the end of October, using a particular process. Therefore, if this is something that is going to be adopted, the Storm Water Board needs to review it, give a recommendation to Council, then Council will evaluate it and take action at a Council meeting. The process needs to move along quickly. Bob Davis provided to Robinson Engineering, some project items for some actual project locations and values that can be used to evaluate how best a fee would be workable. She then referred to a page with the annual summaries of the expenses and provided additional detail of the line items. She then referred to the page with the Schedule of Parcels by Class Code Category and proposed Monthly User Fee Rate Options, providing outcome detail using the four different options.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 28th Day of September, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Mr. Swets requested a moment of silence in memory of Beth Luketic who passed away suddenly on Sunday evening. Beth was a 23 year employee of the Town, first as Dispatch, then as a Police Records Clerk.
Councilman Wayne Pondinas joined the meeting virtually. Roll call votes were taken pursuant to Ordinance No. 1737 for Electronic Meetings Policy.
A quorum was attained.
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager, and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Bill Manousopoulos, 10011 Parrish Avenue: Mr. Manousopoulos stated that his comment was in regards to the Study Session about the Town Budget. He added that as a Water Works and Storm Water Board member he has not yet been included in this year’s budget, as had in the past with the Clerk-Treasurer. He asked when they could expect to be included in the Water Works budget.
Robert Vizdal, 8173 W. 102nd Avenue: Mr. Vizdal stated that he lives right behind the Skate Park, and added that he likes the Skate Park. He stated that, about 6 months ago, while putting a sewer line up to his property, they tore up land from the walking path to the back end of his property. He said that they put the straw and the hay in last Saturday, but did not complete it. He said that he had some photos of the weeds. He asked if the Town had paid for the service already because the job is incomplete. Mr. Swets asked Mr. Wiszowaty to look into it. Mr. Vizdal voiced his opinion about the removal of the Park Board adding that there was too much spending without approval.
Mr. Pondinas thanked Mr. Vizdal for coming and updated everyone on the status of the grass. He confirmed that they are not done yet and that Spohn Ranch is paying for that. He thanked Mr. Vizdal for the comment that he liked the Skate Park, but addressed his other comment about the Town Council taking over and added that they didn’t get a lot of things done. He said that when he was the Liaison, the Park Board performed a lot of work, and named off some of the projects completed.
Mr. Westland confirmed that the Proofs of Publication are in order.
The Storm Water Amended Rate Fee Study document was shared on screen with the public. Ms. Hudson began by explaining that the Board of Storm Water Management met last week and was introduced to the storm water rates. She clarified that at the time, they had been operating with a parcel list that was incomplete as it did not include the three (3) townships within the St. John boundaries. The Amended Rate Study included the 10,000 plus parcels of the Town. The good news is that there was an opportunity to reduce the rates as a proposal because the quantity of parcels increased.
Ms. Hudson referred to Page 5 – Exhibit B, the chart of rates, displaying the four (4) different options, A, B, C and D. She noted examples, based on the different proposed monthly fees, the resulting revenues collected.
Ms. Hudson stated that the first few pages explained why the study is needed and what is included. The reason for the rate study and the decision by the Council is to come into compliance with MS4 obligations by the State. They are unfunded mandates that every town, city and county need to address as MS4 concerns. The Town has started the process and has been audited for it. The State Department has provided a listing of items that need to be complied with and this process will assist the Town in getting into compliance. The secondary reason for the study and a proposed rate is to assist with the other storm water drainage projects in Town. The MS4 compliance relates to drainage ditches and the natural drainage that occurs. The other is the infrastructure needed to assist with the drainage, e.g., culverts and separate storm sewers, etc.
Exhibit A provides a breakdown of the separation of the expenses, as a five (5) year plan, on how the different expenses would average out and be expensed out. The MS4 Related Compliance line relates to items specifically for MS4, most of which the engineering firm will assist with, to get the Town in compliance. The Equipment and Other Capital line represents an average capital investment for various items that the Town already operates, e.g., vehicles, as well as providing some funding ahead of time, to build up a fund for a new piece of equipment. The Storm Water/Flood Control Rehab Projects were identified by the Public Works Department on the infrastructure related items. There are a variety of expenses over the five (5) years and the Town will use an average for the expenses. The total 5 year average of the Capital Improvement Funding is $592,000 for a total average of $1.3 million in expenses, which is used to create the different rate options. When looking at the rate options, Option D would fund the total expenses. The other options would cover some of the expenses but decisions would need to be made as to which expenses would be funded. Exhibit C sets out Options A through D against the expenses to show what amount would be covered for each option.
Ms. Hudson referred to Appendix A-1, which is the list of the expenses from Exhibit A, and she went into some detail of the line items. Appendix A-2 is a list of the various vehicles used for MS4. The Useful Life column indicates the normal replacement time, however, if not replaced, the cash would be accumulated to purchase the equipment later. On Appendix A-3, the list indicates the identified infrastructure projects already engineered through Haas. The future projects are listed as placeholders, knowing there will be many projects in the pipeline.
The Storm Water Board had received basically the same information at their meeting last week and no decision had been made, nor is any decision expected to be made in this meeting.
Referring to the Ordinance, Ms. Hudson noted that the fee listed is the highest fee proposed, Option D, which is the amount that would get the Town to that $1.3 million. It is written at the highest rate, so if the Town decides on a lesser rate, the Town is able to do so. The Storm Water Board is expected to come up with a recommendation to return to the Council for approval. The Ordinance does contemplate how the billing will work and establishing the fund with the Clerk-Treasurer’s office. Ms. Hudson suggested the billing process go through the Lake County Treasurer’s office. It would be collected twice per year with the tax bills, using a coding process. If approved, the Town provides the Auditor’s office the Ordinance for entry and they provide the Town with the actual list of parcels to be included. The Town would convert some file formats to match the parcels with the Property Class Code and send it back to the Auditor’s office. There is no cost to the Town from the County to include this on the billing. She added that the Ordinance includes provisions for failure to pay the fee. She said Lake County Treasurer’s Office has a process where they attach an additional fee to the rate due. The final step would be impose a lien on the property for the ability to recoup the money when the property is sold. If someone does not pay, there would be a small fee incurred to file a lien.
Mr. Schilling asked about the fee schedule and whether the value of the property affects the fee. Ms. Hudson responded that the proposal is a flat fee and not based on the value of the property. Mr. Aurelio asked how the costs would be covered if Options A through C is selected. Ms. Hudson responded that the Town may not do all of the projects that are listed. She added that the proposal is the best case scenario, therefore, the Town could defer a project and free up some expense at the time. Other options to meet the needs would be to use a bond for infrastructure, but does come with cost, e.g., interest. Mr. Aurelio asked about the fees at other towns. Ms. Hudson ran down a list of the towns and how their fees are structured. Ms. Hernandez asked when the Town would see this fee in their tax bills. Ms. Hudson stated that the Lake County Treasurer’s Office needs the file by the end of October. So, if the vote doesn’t occur by then, it would be another year. It would appear on the 2022, pay 2023 tax bills, due in June. Ms. Hernandez added that the Town would receive their payments by June 30th and December 30th. Ms. Hernandez asked if the revenue was contemplated in the 2023 Budget or would it require additional appropriations. Ms. Hudson responded that it would have been premature to include this in the budget, when the total was still preliminary. She added that it would include additional appropriations come January. She also noted that nothing was excluded from the 2023 budget in anticipation of this process, for example, the water operator’s salary.
Mr. Swets opened the floor to Public Comment. There was no Public Comment.
Mr. Aurelio asked why the Council was taking action without a recommendation from the Storm Water Board. Mr. Westland explained that the Council is not taking final action today but this keeps the process moving, pending recommendation. Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1779 on first reading. There was no second, therefore the motion dies. Mr. Westland explained that since the Ordinance is set at the highest possible rate, if any lesser rate is recommended, the Ordinance is not affected. Mr. Schilling made a motion to defer until the Storm Water Board sends a recommendation. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is deferred 5/0.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the Master Engineering Agreement with Robinson Engineering and have the Town Council President sign it. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-nay, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 4/1.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve a refund of Business License fee Receipt No. 81726 in the amount of $25.00. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Mr. Wiszowaty interjected a moment with regards to the refunds. He would like to have an ordinance on the next Town Council meeting agenda that would authorize the Clerk-Treasurer and himself to issue the refunds under a $1,500 amount, and add them to the docket. It would expedite a lot of the smaller refunds. According to Adam Decker, refunds have to be on a Council motion as there is no Ordinance in place. Ms. Hernandez agreed, but noted that it has never been their past practice.
Mr. Swets made a change to the Agenda to move the Reports & Correspondence before the Study Session.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the RTP for ammo procurement at the Indiana Department of Administration LESO in the amount of $2,834.91. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with the following roll call vote: Mr. Aurelio-aye, Mr. Blazak-aye, Mr. Pondinas-aye, Mr. Schilling-aye and Mr. Swets-aye. It is approved 5/0.
Town Manager - Joseph Wiszowaty: Mr. Wiszowaty stated that the employee benefit provider, BAS Health is going through some branding changes to HealthComp effective October 1st. Employees can register to the new portal. Emails have been sent to staff by BAS.
Mr. Wiszowaty stated that the Town will be conducting a survey mailing out in the water bills to offer the residents of St. John an option to voice their opinion with respect to weekly versus bi-weekly recycling services. The survey will provide the specific costs associated. Mr. Schilling responded that they will want it picked up every week. Ms. Hernandez asked how the Town has associated costs if it hadn’t gone out to bid. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that he received a proposal from Republic and they are providing the detail on the costs. Mr. Westland added that he would need to look at the contract and provide an answer.
Town Council:
Michael Aurelio: Mr. Aurelio stated that the Park Advisory Committee had their first meeting and asked for the 2022 Budget to be sent to the Park Superintendent. Ms. Hernandez asked Mr. Wiszowaty to send him a copy of the August Appropriation Report and added that there is a link on the website for anyone interested as all of the Town’s budgets are posted there.
The EDC would like to honor the new businesses coming to Town and asked for an easy way for them to obtain that information. Mr. Schilling suggested checking with Building & Planning. Ms. Hernandez added that the website lists all the business licenses in Town. Mr. Aurelio asked Mr. Wiszowaty to arrange to have the Building & Planning Department send them an email whenever a new business registers with the Town.
Wayne Pondinas: Mr. Pondinas stated that the Skate Park opening went well.
Ms. Hudson referred to the workbook displayed, explaining how it is structured and how it builds up to the main budget numbers. Ms. Hudson explained the structure of the All Funds tab, pointing out some of the details. A discussion of the Bond balance fluctuation ensued. Ms. Hudson explained some of the personnel and salary items within the departments. Ms. Hernandez asked about the health insurance funding requests as she was not able to locate it in the budget. The topic of longevity and the payment process was discussed.
The discussion returned to the health insurance funding requests. Ms. Hernandez was not in agreement with the amounts entered for budgeting, as they do not include the health insurance funding requests. As the Town is partially self-insured, the Town pays the premium, but would also pay the claim up to a maximum per claim. Ms. Hernandez referred to the $275,000 place holder added to the budget and questioned the reasoning for it when the expenditures already exceed the revenues, followed by discussion. Park staffing configurations were discussed. Mr. Wiszowaty addressed the need for a Park Impact Fee Study to be conducted next year for the 5-year plan. The fund established for the Freedom Fest was addressed as the expenditures should not be greater than the revenue collected.
In the Police Department tab, personnel and vehicles were addressed and discussed. The continued education item was questioned as the expense greatly exceeds the expected revenue for the fund.
The topic of the garbage contract was discussed and how the new contract will affect the 2023 expenditures. Mr. Wiszowaty asked the Council for consideration of the resident charges to provide an opportunity to build a cash balance. Ms. Hernandez suggested increasing the garbage budget to account for the number of expected new homes.
The Fire Department personnel and ranking adjustments were discussed. Ms. Hudson touched on a few other line items affected by inflation. Ms. Hudson reported that the Fire Department was approved for a $350,000 grant for some of the gear.
Ms. Hudson brought up the Sanitary District and the Water District. Mr. Wiszowaty added that the budgets will be shared with the Sanitary District and the Water Works Boards. The effects in most areas of the budget, as the result of inflation, was discussed.
Ms. Hudson introduced Daniel Dalton with Cender Dalton, as she will be out for a few weeks, and he will be an available resource in assisting the Council in the budget process. Ms. Hudson reported that she will make some adjustments, meet with Mr. Wiszowaty and Ms. Hernandez in the morning and distribute an updated copy. The budget will then be advertised and remain on schedule.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 28th Day of September, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Michael Schilling, Councilman was absent.
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager, and David Westland, Town Attorney.
David Zapata, 9689 Acorn Drive: Mr. Zapata stated that he was present at the Water Works Board meeting because of water main issues on his street and the connecting streets. He added the streets are showing damage to include sink holes and crumbling asphalt. He said the streets are only about 5 years old, which shows there is some underlying conditions causing the damage. He asked if the Town had any plans to repair those streets, besides the water main.
Mr. Swets responded that they would speak with Public Works to see the plans and how the water main will affect the repair. Mr. Zapata asked about the information and where would it be available once it is decided as the communication is lacking. Mr. Pondinas interjected to say that engineering is looking at that project. Mr. Wiszowaty explained that the scope of the project is quite large and the Town will be working with Engineering to get the road repaired. Mr. Pondinas added that the project would require an IDEM Permit which could take up to three (3) to six (6) months.
Town Council Regular Meeting – August 24, 2022
Town Council Special Meeting - September 14, 2022
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Town Council Regular Meeting dated August 24, 2022 and the Town Council Special Meeting dated September 14, 2022. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Woods referred to a document visually displayed on the screen regarding the Redistricting process. He discussed some of the slides previously presented as a refresh. He explained the reasons for the need to redistrict following the 2020 census. He provided a new deadline of December 31, 2022 which gives the Town additional time to complete the process.
Mr. Woods described the three (3) potential scenarios created from their study and displayed the district maps. He asked the Council for any feedback or to form a consensus on one of the options. If a decision is made, Mr. Woods would work with the Town Attorney to update the current ordinance, followed by an open public comment at the next Town Council meeting. Finally, two (2) Town Council meetings from tonight, close the public comment period and approve the new option. Mr. Aurelio asked about the timing of filing. Mr. Woods responded that Lake County mandates filing with the Board of Elections, rather than the District Court, and if crossing over precinct boundaries, to share the map with them ten (10) days before final approval.
Mr. Swets stated that there was no need to rush and to take some time to analyze the options and get some input from the public first. Mr. Wiszowaty added that they anticipated having the public hearing at the next regular Council meeting. Mr. Swets asked if the options could remain open for the public hearing. Mr. Woods responded to say that they could remain open and that he could provide large maps for viewing. Mr. Aurelio asked about posting these on the website.
Mr. Blazak asked how these options compare to the last ten (10) years. Mr. Woods said that he looked at the current boundary configuration and not back to the 2010 census. He did report that the Town is currently at 58% total deviation.
Mr. Pondinas questioned the timing for the ME Simpson RTPs and if approved is the vendor obligated to maintain the price. Mr. Westland responded that a change order or amendment could happen as it is a long way out. Mr. Pondinas made a motion to pay the 19 RTP’s for $501,720.91. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Dravet, IT Director, asked to add another request to purchase. He stated that he received a quote from Dell on the 19th of the month, to get a replacement server for the Public Safety Building and that the funds have been appropriated. He added that the server cost $26,170.62. Mr. Pondinas does not want to approve anything in such a rush. Mr. Dravet stated that the original quote was for $75,000 and he got it reduced to $26,000 because a new generation of servers will be coming out in the fourth quarter. Mr. Aurelio asked if there would be a chance of losing that deal if they waited until next month. Mr. Dravet responded that the quote will expire on October 10th. Mr. Pondinas asked when Mr. Dravet knew about this to which he repeated that he received it on September 19th. The request did not get approved.
Mr. Aurelio thanked Ms. Hernandez for sending him some of the invoices he requested. He stated that the invoices he received totaled $10,000 of the $3.7 million. Ms. Hernandez asked to read three opinions from the State Board of Accounts, attorney and the public access counselor and read off their statements. Continued discussion ensued. Mr. Pondinas made a motion to approve the Accounts Payable Voucher for $3,746,055.19. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 3 ayes, 0 nays and 1 abstention by Mr. Aurelio.
Motion to Disburse Fifteen Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($15,000) to the St. John Volunteer Fire Department for upkeep and maintenance of the Training Site and authorize Clerk-Treasurer to remit payment from 1101002398.000
Mr. Blazak made a motion to disburse fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to the St. John Volunteer Fire Department. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1780 on First Reading. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1780 on Second Reading. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve Resolution 2022-09-28A authorizing the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office to File an Appeal for an Increase above the Maximum Levy for St. John Civil Town. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. The motion carried with 3 ayes and 0 nays. Mr. Blazak stepped away and was not available for the vote process.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve Resolution 2022-09-28B authorizing the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office to File an Appeal for an Increase above the Maximum Levy for St. John Sanitary District. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve Resolution 2022-09-28C authorizing the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office to File an Appeal for an Increase above the Maximum Levy for St. John Water District. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
Town Manager - Joseph Wiszowaty: Back in May, the Council approved the repairs to the Heartland Park entrance for the amount of $18,700.00 through Holland Asphalt. An additional cost of $1,330.00 was added due to increased asphalt costs. Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the additional $1,330.00 for the paving of 10600 White Oak entry to Heartland Park. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 0 nays.
The garbage contract extension is being reviewed by legal. The contract allows the Town to extend the contract for four (4) years for a modest increase of three percent (3%) per year.
The office has been having preliminary discussions with the VFW and the American Legion in a joint effort to bring a Veteran’s Memorial to St. John. A capital campaign will be organized to raise funds to kick it off. The concept will honor the veterans at the center of the memorial, and the outer ends will pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defending our Nation.
The paving will begin on the US 41 project in the week of October 10, overnight hours. It should be completed and open to traffic on all lanes the following week.
Town Council
Michael Aurelio: Mr. Aurelio provided a response to the charges against him by the Clerk-Treasurer.
Founder’s Park should be done in a couple of weeks. He and Mr. Wiszowaty are discussing possible grants for walking paths and sidewalks for the park from Parrish.
He announced a Friday Night Eve Concert Series in 2023, which will include bands, a beer and wine garden, and food, with the goal being self-sustaining. Another planned series is the summer series which would include several movie in the parks events. The Freedom Fest is scheduled for July 3rd, 2023.
Gerald Swets: Mr. Swets announced that NIRPC will be sending out information regarding grants for road work, sidewalks and bridges, for which the Town will apply.
The Tri-Town Safety Board is holding their annual Mum Sale right now. The schools are back on schedule with their visits and programs at the Safety Village.
Wayne Pondinas: Mr. Pondinas relinquished his time to the Clerk-Treasurer. Ms. Hernandez addressed over-reach in elected officials and what the roles should be.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 26th Day of October, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager, and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Proofs of Publication – Mr. Westland confirmed with the Clerk-Treasurer that the proofs of publication were in order.
Opening Remarks for the Civil Budget- Mr. Wiszowaty reported that before the Council is the proposed 2023 Budget for $28,868,313, advertised pursuant to State Law. Proposed in this year’s budget are the following: two (2) additional full-time Police personnel, two (2) additional full-time Fire personnel, one (1) additional full-time Code Enforcement Officer, and one (1) additional Public Works staff member. The Budget as proposed and advertised is ten percent (10%) greater than last year, with an increase contributed to the General Fund for additional personnel, pay raises and a $2.9 million construction project. The project is funded by funds from the general obligation bond for the 93rd Avenue project. The Town still has some work to do, in working with the Clerk-Treasurer, on how to handle some insurance costs and how to pay them moving forward. Daniel Dalton, from Cender Dalton is present this evening. Mr. Wiszowaty reported that he and Daniel had a meeting with the Clerk and received some recommendations for the Council, on ways to reduce the expenses to the General Fund. He listed a few of the suggestions and noted that there is still some work to do on reductions. Mr. Wiszowaty deferred to Mr. Dalton for additional comment. Mr. Dalton reported that there will be Budget cuts from what had been advertised. He reported it was typical for communities to set the Budget high, with the intention of reducing it to a sustainable level for adoption. Mr. Dalton addressed the tax rate and how the increased assessed values of the properties could increase the tax rates for some residents.
Mr. Swets inquired about the employment positions. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that one of the positions would be for the new Code Enforcement position and possibly deferring it to June 1st. Mr. Aurelio asked how the ARPA funds relate to the Budget. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that the ARPA funds are appropriated in the Budget, however, there will be a change made as $1.1 million will be appropriated for the West 85th Avenue project and the Fire Department Bunker Gear in 2022, reducing the appropriated amount in the Budget. Mr. Dalton explained how the ARPA Funds are regulated. He added that they will create an additional appropriation for approval at the October 26th meeting so that the two expenditures mentioned could be expensed in 2022, decreasing the appropriation in 2023. A discussion on the West 85th Avenue project ensued. Discussions continued on whether the JICA reimbursements would need to be placed back into the ARPA fund, and Mr. Dalton noted he would confirm.
Mr. Swets opened the floor to Public Comment on the Civil Budget. There was no Public Comment. Mr. Swets closed to the floor to Public Comment.
Opening Remarks for the Sanitary Budget – Mr. Wiszowaty reported that with respect to the Sanitary District’s Fiscal Year 2023 Budget, there are some increases in the Engineering and Legal Services, as there are several upcoming projects that will require engineering and legal consideration, to possibly include some right-of-way. Mr. Wiszowaty listed a couple of the projects that are in the design phase with the State. Mr. Wiszowaty listed some of the increased expenses and other areas that were not expected in 2022.
Mr. Swets opened the floor to Public Comment on the Sanitary Budget. There was no Public Comment. Mr. Swets closed to the floor to Public Comment.
Opening Remarks for the Water District Budget – Mr. Wiszowaty reported that the increases are similar to the Sanitary District’s Budget. Additionally, there will be bond projects as well. Mr. Wiszowaty did address the need for discussions regarding the funds for the 93rd Avenue project. Acorn is also a project that needs to be addressed. Mr. Pondinas brought up a couple of other projects that need to be considered. Discussions about projects and cost increases ensued. Mr. Aurelio asked about the water purchases from Schererville and whether there are any solutions. Mr. Pondinas reported on the status of the wells and the treatment of the water. Discussions on the Acorn project followed. Mr. Aurelio asked about the rainy-day funds for both Sanitary and Water, to which Ms. Hernandez responded that in 2016 the Town received a one-time special tax distribution to establish these types of funds. The amounts have been spent, therefore the funds are now dormant.
Mr. Swets opened the floor to Public Comment on the Water District. There was no Public Comment. Mr. Swets closed to the floor to Public Comment.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1781A on first reading only. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1781B on first reading only. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1781C on first reading only. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider the contract extension with Republic Services and authorize the Town Council President to sign. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. The motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Pondinas addressed a proposal from the last meeting for $26,000 on a Request to Purchase and that three (3) council members signed it, but he wasn’t asked to sign it. Mr. Swets responded that the Town was under time constraints.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 26th Day of October, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Joe Gomeztagle, (no address presented) - Mr. Gomeztagle presented a letter to Mr. Swets, then read the letter aloud. He referred to the alleged recognition Mr. Dernulc will be receiving at the Town Council meeting for bringing the ARPA funds to St. John. He accused the Town Council of pulling a political stunt as the American Rescue Plan was passed by the Congress and none of the Republican representatives voted for it.
Tony Mitidiero, 9754 Rosewood Drive – Mr. Mitidiero referred to the issue of requests for financial records and the cumbersome process associated with presenting those records. He addressed the need for the Town to invest in software to allow easier access to the financial records for managing the Town.
Bill Purcell, 8649 Fairway Drive – Mr. Purcell made comments and accusations about several Councilmen and Town staff.
Bill Manousopoulos, 10011 Parrish Avenue – Mr. Manousopoulos brought up the topic of Shops 96. He also addressed his disappointment of the alleged recognition of Dan Dernulc.
Town Council Regular Meeting – October 28, 2020
Town Council Regular Meeting – September 28, 2022
Town Council Special Meeting – October 12, 2022
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Town Council Regular meeting minutes dated October 28, 2020. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. He also asked why these minutes were up for approval this evening. Motion carried with 4 ayes, 0 nays and 1 abstention by Mr. Aurelio.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Town Council Regular Meeting minutes dated September 28, 2022. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Town Council Special Meeting minutes dated October 12, 2022. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Wiszowaty thanked everyone that had participated in the FY2023 Budget process. The Civil Budget presented for approval is $25,693,313. The budget includes a 5% pay raise for the employees and staff as a cost-of-living and market rate adjustment, and includes the elected officials. He added that new positions are included and listed the positions. The Town will be seeking a $1 million Community Crossing Grant and performing about $2.2 million in road work. Mr. Pondinas asked if the Town should have a Salary Ordinance since salaries are affected. Mr. Wiszowaty reported that the Salary Ordinance will be presented in November. Mr. Pondinas asked the Department Heads in attendance for some additional details.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1781A Civil Town Budget on second reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1781B Sanitary District Budget on second reading. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1781C Water District Budget on second reading. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the RTPs for a total of $170,099.00. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the docket for $1,966,767.41. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this was part of another project and that one of the trees had died at no fault of Rosebud’s and had to be replaced. Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the invoice for $683.10. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1783 on first reading on Option number 1. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Town Manager - Joseph Wiszowaty: Mr. Wiszowaty, on behalf of the St. John Police Department, asked all drivers to be cautious on Halloween, during Trick or Treat hours.
Town Council
Wayne Pondinas: Mr. Pondinas reported that the SCADA system is expected to be completed by the end of November.
Gerry Swets: Mr. Swets announced the change in the Trick or Treat hours to 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 22nd Day of November, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Discussion ensued at the dais to address Mr. Cole’s concerns.
Town Council Regular Meeting – October 26, 2022
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the October 26, 2022 Meeting Minutes. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Ms. Hernandez reported that she would retain a copy, provide a copy to Mr. Westland and return the remaining copies to the Town Manager.
Mr. Wiszowaty reported that this ordinance is before the Council for second reading and adoption. Mr. Schilling made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1783 on second reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Pondinas asked questions about the RTPs for DeYoung Interiors and Schilling Construction and discussion ensued. Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the RTPs in the amount of $440,256.56. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 4 ayes, 0 nays and 1 abstention from Mr. Schilling.
Motion to approve Change Order No. 1 for the CCMG 2022-1 Road Improvements Project from $2,346,891.55 to $2,101,053.08, a decrease of $245,838.47. Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve Change Order No. 2. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Motion to approve Final Pay Request No. 3 in the amount of $66,329.45 and release of Retainage Withheld in the amount of $203,472.39 to Milestone Contractors North, Inc. for the CCMG 2022-1 Road Improvements Project. Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve Final Pay Request No. 3 in the amount of $66,329.45. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays. Motion to approve Change Order No. 1 for the W. 85th Avenue Reclamation Project from $845,543.75 to $557,943.18, a decrease of $287,600.57. Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this is a shared project with Lake County and the Town of Schererville, which will be billed for their portion. Discussion regarding the JICA ensued. Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve Change Order No. 1 for the W. 85th Avenue Reclamation Project. Mr. Pondinas seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays. Motion to approve Pay Request No. 1 in the amount of $530,046.00 to Milestone Contractors North, Inc. for the W. 85th Avenue Reclamation Project. Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve payment conditioned upon legal review. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.Mr. Aurelio made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1784 on first reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays. Mr. Schilling made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1784 on second reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1785 on first reading. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1786. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1787 on first reading. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the proposal from Teska Associates to perform a Corridors Plan for $90,000. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the settlement of $53,000 with the Groen and authorize Mr. Westland to execute the documents necessary. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Town Manager - Joseph Wiszowaty: Mr. Wiszowaty reported that the savings realized on the two recently completed road projects will assist the Town in the next project, Acorn Drive. He provided an activities update on the project. He reported that meetings continue to take place to discuss water projects and listed several. Mr. Swets asked about an update on the Storm Water Board and their recommendation for the fee. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that the public hearing was held with respect to the rate. There is time since it would not go into effect until 2024.
Town Council
Wayne Pondinas: Mr. Pondinas reported that the sanitary SCADA system was just about done and they were working on the last lift station. He added that it should be fully operational by the end of the year. He reported on some equipment that was ordered for several locations.
Michael Schilling: Mr. Schilling reported that the Fire Department is interested in expanding the Fire Territory. He also provided updated on some staffing changes and promotions.
Bryan Blazak: Mr. Blazak thanked The Town of Schererville and Lake County for their support on the W. 85th Avenue project.
Michael Aurelio: Mr. Aurelio reported that the Parks Department is opening an Ice Skating Rink at Civic Park. Also, they will be adding a half-mile walking path in Lantern View Park.
Gerald Swets: NIRPC is accepting requests for 2027 money. Mr. Wiszowaty added that the Town did submit two grant applications. There are approximately $20,000,000 in grant applications and hope to be awarded some of that.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 29th Day of December, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Mr. Pondinas stated that three (3) employees are not getting the increase, while other employees are getting more than five percent (5%). He mentioned discussions with Mr. Wiszowaty about the part-time position in the Clerk’s office that was abolished. He mentioned an employee of seven (7) months getting three (3) raises within three (3) months. He noted how the agendas are provided at the end of the day with two (2) girls working in the office. One of them will be getting a thirty percent (30%) raise.
Mr. Schilling stated that at the last meeting he had some issues with some of the positions.
Mr. Aurelio questioned Mr. Pondinas’s comment about the three (3) employees not receiving raises at the ordinance does not report anyone with a zero (0). Mr. Pondinas explained that he was told that they got a raise on December 3rd and it counts against this five percent (5%). Mr. Aurelio addressed the Town Manager’s administrative assistant getting a twenty eight percent (28%) raise and explained that the employee had their pay reduced by twenty percent (20%) last year, which was supposed to be returned, and was not. Also, the employee is moving from an hourly position to a salaried position, and no longer eligible for overtime.
Mr. Swets clarified that no employee had received three (3) raises. The employee received a raise in November and the Salary Ordinance provides the five percent (5%). Mr. Swets added that the Clerk’s part-time position was eliminated because the Clerk reported she was filling the spot with her current staff. Mr. Swets noted that for the employees promoted in December, after the Salary Ordinance was written and the budget was done, it was decided that was going to be their raise for the year. The Clerk-Treasurer attempted to interject and Mr. Swets asked the Clerk not to interrupt him when he is speaking.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1787 on second reading. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 3 ayes and 2 nays by Mr. Schilling and Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Wiszowaty reported that this is for the right-of-way for the 93rd Avenue improvements. He added that the project is moving forward and that there will be further action before the Council in advance of any approval. Mr. Swets stated that he wasn’t comfortable approving anything without a dollar attached. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that the dollar amount was provided in the memo previously sent to the Council. Mr. Pondinas expressed concerns about acquiring the property and the final cost. Discussion regarding the dollar amount continued. Mr. Blazak made a motion to defer the acquisition. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Motion to approve Final Pay Request No. 2 in the amount of $0.00 and release of Retainage Withheld in the amount of $27,897.18 to Milestone Contractors North, Inc. for the W. 85th Avenue Reclamation Project
Mr. Pondinas asked where this money was coming from, to which Mr. Wiszowaty responded it was coming from ARPA. Mr. Pondinas also asked about the payments from Schererville and Lake County with the amended costs. Mr. Westland confirmed the municipalities had already signed the Interlocal Agreement and would require a short addendum to amend the final cost and explained the process. Mr. Wiszowaty asked Mr. Westland to prepare the addendum for the next meeting. Mr. Wiszowaty reported that the fully executed Interlocal Agreement had not yet been returned and the Town is waiting for the Lake County Commissioner to provide their executed document. Mr. Westland and Mr. Dalton confirmed that the ARPA money can be used as the Town desires. Mr. Dalton also added that he would look into where to put the money reimbursed by Schererville and Lake County. A discussion about the ARPA funds ensued.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to release the Retainage Withheld in the amount of $27,897.18 to Milestone Contractors North, Inc. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Ordinance No. 1788: An Ordinance Establishing the Opioid Settlement Unrestricted Fund (#2256) and Restricted Fund (#2257)
Mr. Wiszowaty reported that the Town is expecting the funds to arrive shortly. Mr. Aurelio made a motion to consider Ordinance No. 1788 on first reading. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1788. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Resolution No. 2022-12-14: A Resolution Authorizing Transfers in the American Rescue Plan Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund #2402
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that the TIF Funds are short for the RDC to pay the $36,682.51 on the final payment for the project at 96th. Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2022-12-14. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Wiszowaty explained that Mr. DeYoung serves on the Economic Development Committee and owns a business from which the Town will be purchasing office furniture. Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the Uniform Conflict of Interest. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 29th Day of December, 2022:
___________________________________
Gerald Swets, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer
Also present: Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and David Westland, Town Attorney.
Wayne Pondinas, 8781 Verbena Court: Mr. Pondinas referred to the last Town Council meeting and how there was no public comment allowed and no reports. He noted that the Clerk and the Council have been removed from the agenda at this meeting and asked about the change. He spoke about conversations with the Town Manager in regards to the ARPA funds, but never received a response. He spoke about the process for boards and committees. He added that liaison appointments should be made after the 2023 Council President is elected. On the ARPA Funds, Mr. Pondinas is looking for a list of the items appropriated from the fund. He listed some items that were already funded.
Beth Hernandez, 10538 Bridlewood Street: Ms. Hernandez stated that she is addressing the Council in the Public Comments since her ability to do so in Reports & Correspondence has been removed. Ms. Hernandez referred to Transfer Resolution 2022-12-29F on the agenda, which is a transfer of funds intended for the Christmas in the Park fund to various different town-wide funds with additional description and why it is being implemented this time. Ms. Hernandez referred to how other special events will be affected by the change and how donations must be appropriated.
Town Council Regular Meeting – November 22, 2022
Town Council Special Meeting – December 14, 2022
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the November 26, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes and the December 14, 2022 Special Meeting Minutes. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2022-12-29. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2022-12-29A. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve Resolution No. 2022-12-29B. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to acquire certain property for public right of way and construction access at 11211 W. 93rd Avenue, St. John, Indiana for no greater than $297,650.00, pending the appraisal review and to authorize the Town Manager to sign the offer, agreement, closing documents, and any other related documents for FY2023 West 93rd Avenue & US 41 Intersection. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Requests to Purchase in the amount of $467,167.10. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
i. 2023 Calendar Schedule of Meetings for the Town Council, Boards and Commissions
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the meeting schedule as presented. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
ii. Professional Services Agreement between the Town of St. John and Westland and Bennett, P.C.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the Professional Services Agreement between the Town of St. John and Westland and Bennett. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
iii. Professional Services Agreement between the Town of St. John and Adam D. Decker, Attorney at Law, P.C.
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Professional Services Agreement between the Town of St. John and Adam D. Decker. Mr. Schilling seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
iv. Professional Services Agreement between the Town of St. John and Robinson Engineering, LTD.
Mr. Aurelio made a motion to approve the Professional Services Agreement between the Town of St. John and Robinson Engineering. Mr. Blazak seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
v. Professional Services Agreement between the Town of St. John and Cender Dalton Municipal Advisors
Mr. Blazak made a motion to approve the Professional Services Agreement between the Town of St. John and Cender Dalton Municipal Advisors. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
vi. Appointments of specific individuals to Boards, Committees, Commissions and Council Liaisons
Mr. Swets explained that the list is not complete as not all of the applications have been received.
Mr. Schilling made a motion to approve the appointments. Mr. Aurelio seconded the motion. Mr. Pondinas asked for a list of the applications. Motion carried with 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Pondinas.
Town Manager: Joseph Wiszowaty commended the departments for their efforts during the snow and frigid temperatures over the Holiday weekend. He reported that three (3) Public Works employees will be retiring the first week of the year: Larry Bustamante, Gerri Kudzia and April Grober. He stated that the office is working on the five (5) year Capital Improvement Plan with Cender Dalton and the Department Heads. In 2023, they will be working on the Strategic Plan which will identify the strategic goals for the future of the Town, to include economic and community development, transportation, infrastructure and finance. He listed a few ongoing and planned projects, some of which will include partnerships with Lake County and NIRPC.
Respectfully Submitted:
Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Town Council
Approved This 25th Day of January, 2023:
___________________________________
Michael Schilling, Town Council President
Attest:
________________________________
Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer