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HomeMy WebLinkAbout3.1 Minutes 02/03/2026Village of Mount Prospect Special Meeting of the Village Board/Committee of the Whole of the Village Board Tuesday, February 3, 2026 / 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER Mayor Hoefert called the Special Meeting of the Village Board/Committee of the Whole of the Village Board to order at 6:05 p.m. in the Board Room at Village Hall, 50 S. Emerson St. ROLL CALL Members present upon roll call by the Village Clerk: Mayor Paul Hoefert, Trustee Vincent Dante, Trustee Beth DiPrima, Trustee Terri Gens, Trustee Bill Grossi, Trustee John Matuszak, and Trustee Colleen Saccotelli Absent: None. Mayor Hoefert announced that a quorum was present. 2.1. Pledge ofAllegiance—Trustee Colleen Saccotelli RECESS TO THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 4.1. 2025 Downtown Parking Study Update and Discussion Director of Public Works Sean Dorsey introduced Michael Werthmann, Principal with KLOA Engineering, who presented the findings of the 2025 Downtown Parking Study. Mr. Werthmann noted that KLOA has a long relationship with Mount Prospect and conducted the previous downtown parking study in 2018. Mr. Werthmann outlined the purpose of the study, which included inventorying downtown parking supply, documenting public parking demand on typical weekdays and weekends (including during events), evaluating parking demand to identify surpluses and deficits, estimating the impact of planned developments, and providing recommendations. Key findings of the study included: • The downtown core has 2,161 public parking spaces • 37% (806 spaces) consist of on -street parking along 36 blocks • 63% (1,355 spaces) are in 12 off-street parking lots and 2 parking decks • The Northeast quadrant has the most parking (931 spaces or 43% of overall parking) • The peak parking demand occurred on a Saturday evening during events (car show and block party), with 54% occupancy (1,165 vehicles) • Even at peak demand, 865 spaces remained unoccupied (46% of total) • Outside of special events, peak demand in any quadrant was roughly 50% or less • The Emerson deck was only 54% occupied on weekdays and 70% occupied during weekend events • The Northwest quadrant had the highest occupancy at 73% during weekend events • The Southwest quadrant had a maximum utilization of 52% Mr. Werthmann noted that while there's abundant overall parking, some "hot spots" with higher utilization exist, particularly around the Village Center, on Pine Street between Central and Northwest Highway, and sections of Prospect Avenue, Witte Street, and Evergreen Avenue. The study also examined planned developments including: 1. The Busse and Emerson site (Chase lot): While this would eliminate 121 existing public parking spaces, the Emerson deck has sufficient capacity to accommodate the displaced vehicles. 2. The 200 South Main site (proposed 7,000 sq. ft. restaurant): The Village should consider restriping the recently acquired St. Mark's Church parking lot to increase total parking to 59 spaces. Recommendations included: • Enhancing marketing and wayfinding to better utilize parking decks and commuter lots • Continued enforcement of parking regulations • Modifying on -street time regulations (potentially changing some 2-hour parkingto 30-60 minutes for higher turnover) • Expanding the Witte • Street lot (potentially adding 20 spaces) • Restripingthe St. Mark's Lutheran Church parking lot Duringthe Board discussion, several trustees raised questions and concerns: • Questioned how spaces already dedicated to certain businesses or residents are accounted for in the study • Felt the study was overly optimistic about available parking, noting that "prime" parking spaces (those within 1-2 blocks of destinations) have much higher occupancy rates. • Several Trustees expressed concerns about the Southwest quadrant parking situation • Discussed the timeline for restriping the St. Mark's lot and potential future development plans Mr. Werthmann and Director of Community and Economic Development Jason Shallcross answered questions from the Board. Members of the public also commented, with residents expressing concerns about adequate parking in the Southwest quadrant and the safety of neighborhood streets if more traffic is directed through residential areas. Public Comment: Carole Martz Resident • Questioned if the Busey Bank lot could be used for parking after bank hours • Noted the need for an increase in handicap parking • Considerthe businesses along Prospect Avenue (and others) when implementing a one -hour parking limit. • Suggested adding a signage system to the Emerson Street Parking Deck that would display the number of open spaces (similar to the Maple Street Deck) Steve Polit 601 N. Wilshire Drive • Questioned the purchase of the St. Mark's property if existing parking is underutilized, as the study indicated • Data doesn't always reflect what is happening in real time • Stressed the importance of educating visitors about traffic rules to prevent congestion and improve safety. Vicki Chung 219 S. Witte St. Pointed out that the area around South Witte is already experiencing tight parking conditions, and any additional traffic from new businesses could exacerbate the problem.. • Asked about the timeline for the restriping of the St. Mark's lot Village Manager Michael Cassady responded, stating that it will happen as soon as possible, but noted that the Village just recently closed on the property and it will take time. Ronak McFadden Mount Prospect resident • Concerned about a lack of handicap parking • Cautioned against imposing 1-hour time limits on parking downtown, • particularly for certain businesses such as nail and hair salons. Mayor Hoefert provided closing comments. RECONVENE THE VILLAGE BOARD MEETING The meeting reconvened to the Village Board at 7:22 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 6.1. Minutes of the regular meeting of the Village Board -January 20, 2026 Motion by Terri Gens, second by Vincent Dante, to approve January 20, 2026 minutes of the regular meeting of the Village Board: Yea: Vincent Dante, Beth DiPrima. Terri Gens, Bill Grossi, John Matuszak, Colleen Saccotelli Nay: None Final Resolution: Motion Passed MAYORS REPORT 7.1. Mayor's Comment Mayor Hoefert recognized Michael Sieniawski, a contestant in the Patriot's Pen and Voice of Democracy essay contests. Michael, an eighth -grade student at Lincoln Middle School, was selected to represent the VFW Post 1337 at the district level and won. He is one of only four Patriot's Pen winners invited to the state banquet on February 6th. He read his essay on patriotism aloud. The Village Board wished Michael good luck at the state competition. Mayor Hoefert also recognized photographer MarkZarnek, whose rainbow picture was featured in the Costco magazine. 7.2. PROCLAMATION: Black History Month - February 2026 Mayor Hoefert read a proclamation designating February 2026 as Black History Month in Mount Prospect. The proclamation highlighted the 2026 theme, "A Century of Black History Commemorations," which focuses on the transformative impact of commemorating Black life and history. 7.3. PROCLAMATION: Go Red for Cardiovascular Awareness —February 6, 2026 Mayor Hoefert read a proclamation for Go Red for Cardiovascular Awareness Day on February 6, 2026, at the request of Liam Seymour, a Prospect High School student, at the December 16, 2025 board meeting. The proclamation highlighted that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women and men, and wearing red symbolizes a commitment to fighting heart disease and supporting research, education, and advocacy efforts. Liam Seymour thanked the Board for the proclamation and spoke about the importance of heart health awareness. He mentioned that the quick action of Mount Prospect EMTs helped save his mother's life and encouraged everyone to join him in wearing red on February 6th, sharing information about heart health, and being advocates for change. 7.4. APPOINTMENTTO BOARDSAND COMMISSIONS Transportation Safety Commission: Leonard Xavier Mayor Hoefert presented the appointment of Leonard Xavier to the Transportation Safety Commission. Mr. Xavier shared his experience serving on the Transportation Commission in Highland Park for 8years, including 4years as the chair. Motion by Terri Gens, second by Vincent Dante, to ratify the appointment of Leonard Xavier to the Transportation Safety Commission. Yea: Vincent Dante, Beth DiPrima. Terri Gens, Bill Grossi, Colleen Saccotelli Nay: None Final Resolution: Motion Passed COMMUNICATIONS AND PETITIONS - CITIZENS TO BE HEARD Steve Polit 601 N. Wilshire Dr. • Thanked the Board for installing "Walk Your Wheels" signs in downtown Mount Prospect to reduce the use of motorized scooters and bicycles. Emphasized the importance of education, enforcement, and public relations to ensure compliance with these new rules. Jill Hoff 21 S. George St. • Expressed concern about diminishing opportunities for residents to provide feedbackto the Board. • Suggested that the Village should consider additional efforts to support and acknowledge the LGBTQIA community, immigrant residents, and lower -income, elderly, and disabled neighbors. • Commented on the lack of representation during the Black History Month proclamation and what she perceived as disrespectful behavior during the student's essay reading. CONSENTAGENDA Motion by Colleen Saccotelli, second by Vincent Dante to approve the consent agenda as presented: Yea: Vincent Dante, Beth DiPrima, Terri Gens, Bill Grossi, John Matuszak, Colleen Saccotelli Nay: None Final Resolution: Motion Passed 9.1. List of Bills -January 14, 2026 to January 27, 2026 - $2,957,563.67 9.2. Approval of Minutes - January 20, 2026, Closed Session meeting of the Village Board 9.3. Motion to accept lowest cost, responsive bid submitted by Langton Group of Woodstock, Illinois for the 2026/2027 Parkway Restoration Contract for an amount not to exceed $64,680.00 in 2026. 9.4. Motion to accept the lowest cost, responsive bid for 2026-2027 Parkway Tree Removal contract for an amount not to exceed $150,000. 9.5. Motion to waive the rule requiring two readings of an ordinance and adopt an ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 5, "BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS," ARTICLE XVI, "FOREIGN FIRE INSURANCE TAX BOARD" OF THE VILLAGE CODE OF MOUNT PROSPECT Ordinance No. 6830 OLD BUSINESS 10.1.2nd reading of an ORDINANCE GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE FOR A PRELIMINARYAND FINAL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT FOR PROPERTY LOCATEDAT200 SOUTH MAIN STREET, MOUNT PROSPECT, ILLINOIS (PZ- 31-25) Jason Shallcross, Director of Community and Economic Development, presented the proposal for Fatpour Tap Works at 200 South Main Street. The property has been a vacant gravel lot for about 10 years, with the previous structure demolished in 2017. The proposal is for a 7,000-square-foot restaurant with an outdoor patio. The building would use high - quality materials, including brick and metal, and would include solar panels on the roof. Director Shallcross explained that the project requires relief from setbacks and parking requirements. The Village Code requires 11 parking spaces, but the petitioner is proposing 8 spaces on the property and seeking forgiveness for 3 spaces. He noted that the Village has been lenient with downtown parking requirements due to the availability of public parking. During the presentation, Director Shallcross noted that this redevelopment at the southern gateway is considered a catalytic project forth e downtown area. The floor plan includes a substantial main dining area, private dining space, and an expansive outdoor patio. The back -of -house will include the kitchen, storage, and a cooler, strategically located to minimize impact on nearby residential properties. The discussion included extensive discussion of parking in the southwest quadrant, particularly the potential restriping of the recently purchased St. Mark's Church parking lot to increase the number of spaces from 40 to 58. Director Shallcross presented a study of area parking options, showing a net gain of 51 stalls from restriping and other improvements. He also discussed the possibility of a valet parking service for the southwest quadrant. An extensive Board discussion followed. Board comments: • Discussed the need for ensuring effective traffic flow and parking management to support the restaurant. • Suggested ensuring that no development of the St. Mark's property occurs for at least a year to allow for assessment of the restaurant's impact on parking needs. • Existing parking should be maximized through enhanced signage, marketing, and possibly modifying on -street parking time regulations. • Expressed support for the development, noting it would transform a vacant lot and add vibrancy to the downtown area. • Expressed concerns about inadequate parking and potential issues with traffic flow. Resident comments focused on concerns about parking, traffic flow, and notification about the development. Public Comment: Steve Polit 601 Wilshire Dr. • Concerned about potential traffic issues around the new development; signage and education will be important. Eve Smith 3 S. George St President, St. Mark Lutheran Church Council She stated that the purchase and sale of St. Mark's property is beneficial to both parties and thanked the Board for their cooperation during the process. Stated that the Church did not seek a developer for the property, correcting an earlier statement Jill Hoff 21 S. George St. • Questioned whether the Village engaged residents affected by the proposed development. Director Shallcross responded, stating that residents within 350 feet of the proposed development were notified via first-class mail as required for anyzoning request. He added that there has been engagement with the affected residents throughout the planning and zoning process. Vicki Chung 219 S. Wille St • Need to ensure that traffic and parking concerns have been adequately addressed before construction starts. Al Moreno 212 S. Witte • Expressed concerns about parking and cut -through traffic Dawn Fletcher Collins Mount Prospect resident • Expressed support for the project and the Village's overall development strategy Director Shallcross answered questions from several residents about parking and the project. Motion by Colleen Saccotelli, second by Terri Gens to approve the ordinance as presented: Yea: Vincent Dante, Teri Gens, Bill Grossi, John Matuszak, Colleen Saccotelli Nay: Beth DiPrima Final Resolution: Motion Passed Ordinance No. 6831 10.2. Motion to waive the rule requiringtwo readings of an ordinance and adopt AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE REDEVELOPMENTAGREEMENT FOR 200 S. MAIN STREET, LLC IN THE PROSPECT AND MAIN TIF DISTRICT OF THE VILLAGE OF MOUNT PROSPECT, ILLINOIS I This time was tabled at the January 20, 2026 Village Board meeting and moved to the February3, 2026 meeting. Jason Shallcross presented information on the proposed redevelopment agreement, which would provide an $800,000 investment to support the Fatpour project. The funds would be provided only upon the business opening, and based on projected TIF increment and sales tax generation, the Village expects to recoup this investment in 5 years. The investment amount is equivalent to 13% of the total project cost, which is in line with other Village -supported projects. No further discussion. Motion by Bill Grossi, second by John Matuszak to waive the rule requiring two readings of an ordinance and approve the ordinance as presented: Yea: Vincent Dante, Terri Gens, Bill Grossi, John Matuszak, Colleen Saccotelli Nay: Beth DiPrima Final Resolution: Motion Passed Ordinance No. 6832 NEW BUSINESS - None VILLAGE MANAGER'S REPORT The Village Manager had nothing further to report. ANY OTHER BUSINESS Trustee Saccotelli mentioned her appreciation for everyone coordinating their outfits for cardiovascular awareness with red clothing. Mayor Hoefert mentioned that the "Shining Stars" gala would be held on Saturday evening to honor citizens for their achievements. ADJOURNMENT With no additional business to conduct, Mayor Hoefert asked for a motion to adjourn. Trustee Dante, seconded by Trustee Saccotelli, moved to adjourn the meeting. By unanimous voice vote, the February 3, 2026 Special Meeting of the Village Board/Committee of the Whole of the Village Board of Trustees adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Karen M. Agoranos Village Clerk