NEW ITEMS
Meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners
County Board Room, County Building
Tuesday, July 1, 2003, 10:00 A.M.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
PROPOSED AGREEMENT
ITEM #1
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 27, 2003 from
JAMES M. O’ROURKE, Executive Director, Judicial Advisory Council
Submitting for your approval are four (4) three month Agreements of Cooperation between the Illinois Department of Public Aid and the Chief Judge, the State's Attorney's Office, the Office of the Sheriff, and the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County for child support enforcement contracts.
The current contracts with these agencies are scheduled to expire on June 30, 2003. Your approval of these Agreements will avoid service disruption while contract negotiations continue.
Estimated Fiscal Impact: None. Contract period: July 1, 2003 through September 30, 2003.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Maldonado, seconded by Commissioner Silvestri, moved that the request of the Executive Director of the Judicial Advisory Council be approved. The motion carried unanimously.
PROPOSED GRANT AWARD
ITEM #2
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 23, 2003 from
DENNIS MANZKE, Chief of the Administrative Services Bureau, State’s Attorney’s Office
requesting authorization to accept a grant in the amount of $38,839.00 from the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA). This grant will provide funding to conduct a five-day, 40-hour, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner's (SANE) Course that will train Cook County nurses to conduct sexual assault forensic examinations for the purpose of enhancing the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) process throughout Cook County. The goal of the SART program is to create a systematic response in the way in which sexual assault cases are handled by the State's Attorney's Office.
The match commitment for this award is $9,710.00, which will be fulfilled in the form of the attendees' time at the training.
This grant does not require an application process. The award was made by the ICJIA for the specific purpose of conducting this training.
Our office is currently waiting for the contract from the ICJIA and therefore the contract is not included in this request. However, our office is requesting acceptance at this time due to the fact that the Board of Commissioners will not meet again until September, which is past the deadline set forth by the ICJIA. The ICJIA made the request for approval of the contract with very short notice, necessitating the request for approval before the contract could be completed.
Estimated Fiscal Impact: None. Grant Award: $38,839.00. Funding period: August 1, 2003 through September 30, 2003.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Maldonado, seconded by Commissioner Silvestri, moved that the request of the Chief of the Administrative Services Bureau of the State's Attorney's Office be approved. The motion carried unanimously.
PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS
ITEM #3
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 30, 2003 from
MARK KILGALLON, Chief, Bureau of Human Resources
Transmitting herewith are a number of collective bargaining agreements for your consideration and approval at the July 1, 2003 Board Meeting.
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Collective Bargaining Agreements for the period of December l, 2001 through November 30, 2004 have been negotiated between the County of Cook and the following Collective Bargaining Groups:
1. Metropolitan Alliance of Police - Cook County Hospitals, Chapter 270
2. Illinois Nurses Association
3. Warehouse, Mail Order, Office, Technical and Professional Employees Union, Local 743
WHEREAS, salaries and wages for these agreements have previously been approved by the Board of Commissioners.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that these union agreements be approved by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Maldonado, seconded by Commissioner Silvestri, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried.
Commissioner Hansen voted "present".
* * * * *
ITEM #4
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 30, 2003 from
MARK KILGALLON, Chief, Bureau of Human Resources
Transmitting herewith is a wage Resolution covering Teamsters Local 743 representing employees of the Psychology Division of the Forensic Clinical Services Department and the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County.
Estimated Cost: $53,380.00.
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, general increases and salary adjustments for the period of December 1, 2001 through November 30, 2004, have been negotiated between Cook County and Teamsters Local 743, representing employees of the Psychology Division of the Forensic Clinical Services Department and the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County;
and
WHEREAS, these general increases and salary adjustments are reflected in the Salary Schedules.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that these general increases and salary adjustments be approved by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Maldonado, seconded by Commissioner Silvestri, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #5
Submitting a Proposed Resolution sponsored by
JOHN H. STROGER, JR., PRESIDENT and CARL R. HANSEN, County Commissioners
Co-Sponsored by
JERRY BUTLER, FORREST CLAYPOOL, EARLEAN COLLINS, JOHN P. DALEY,
ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN, GREGG GOSLIN, ROBERTO MALDONADO,
JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY, ANTHONY J. PERAICA,
MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS, BOBBIE L. STEELE and
LARRY SUFFREDIN, County Commissioners
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr., owner and longtime publisher of the Des Plaines-based Journal and Topics chain of newspapers, passed away on June 27, 2003, and
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr. is remembered as a man who took an active role in the community and made significant contributions to suburban journalism after beginning his career as a reporter in 1935, and
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr. served his country during World War II as a gunnery officer and later commander of a U.S. Navy gunboat during the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, and
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr. grew up on the north side of Chicago, where he attended high school at Taft and Schurz High Schools and later graduated from Lake Forest College in Lake Forest, Illinois, and
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr. met his wife Mary Jane while working for the student newspaper at Lake Forest College, and the two were married in 1944, a marriage to last 59 years, and
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr. and his wife Mary Jane both had a lifelong dream of owning their own newspaper, and
WHEREAS, their dream came true in 1946, when Richard C. Wessell, Sr. bought the Des Plaines Journal, the first of what would become a chain of papers that now covers twenty-eight North and Northwest suburbs, including Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect and Elk Grove Village, and
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr. cultivated a family business with his six children and grandchildren actively involved, and his son, Todd Wessell recently taking over as publisher of the 16 edition chain, and
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr. was the patriarch of a journalistic family whose tradition of service to the community will continue with his children and grandchildren, and
WHEREAS, Richard C. Wessell, Sr. will be missed by all, and his life's successes are a worthy example of reaching goals in work and family life, now therefore
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of Cook County does hereby offer its sincerest condolences to Mary Jane Wessell and the rest of the family of Richard C. Wessell, Sr., and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this memoriam be presented to the family of Richard C. Wessell, Sr. to commemorate the life of this remarkable gentleman.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Maldonado, seconded by Commissioner Silvestri, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
REPORT
ITEM #6
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 30, 2003 from
LARRY SUFFREDIN, Chairman, Legislation and Intergovernmental Relations Committee
Please add the submitted report, Summary of SB 428, to the New Items Agenda for the July 1, 2003 County Board Meeting. I respectfully request that the item be referred to the Legislation and Intergovernmental Relations Committee.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Suffredin, seconded by Commissioner Silvestri, moved that the communication be referred to the Committee on Legislation and Intergovernmental Relations. (Comm. No. 260272). The motion carried unanimously.
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS
RESOLUTIONS
ITEM #7
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 11, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Grade Crossing Renewal Agreement between the County of Cook and the
Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway Company
Reconstruction of the Grade Crossing
Main Street (County Highway W45)
in the Village of Matteson
Section: 98-W4502-02-FP
Fiscal Impact: $431,116.22 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
RESOLUTION
RESOLVED, by the Members of the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, Illinois, on behalf of the County of Cook, to authorize and direct its President, to execute by original signature or his authorized signature stamp, two (2) copies of an Agreement with the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway Company, said Agreement submitted, wherein said Railroad Company will reconstruct its grade crossing and install a new complete constant warning time protection system with pedestrian gates at Main Street (County Highway W45); that the County of Cook will pay for the cost of the rubber grade crossing surface and associated labor and equipment, pavement approaches, automatic vehicle and pedestrian gates and signals and traffic control as Section: 98-W4502-02-FP (estimated cost $431,116.22); and, the Highway Department is directed to forward two (2) County executed copies of the Agreement with certified copies of this Resolution to the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway Company.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #8
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 12, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Amendment to Economic Development Program Agreement
for Jurisdictional Transfer
Lake-Cook Road, Quentin Road to Rand Road
Cook County/State of Illinois
County of Lake and the Village of Deer Park
Section: 02-A5010-01-EG
Fiscal Impact: None
RESOLVED, by the Members of the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, Illinois, on behalf of the County of Cook, to authorize and direct its President to execute by original signature or his authorized signature stamp, six (6) copies of an Amendment to an Agreement, approved by Your Honorable Body on November 19, 2002, wherein the termini for the jurisdictional transfer of Lake-Cook Road (proposed County highway A50) from the State of Illinois to Cook County are clarified; and, the Highway Department is directed to return six (6) executed copies of said Amendment with this Resolution to the Illinois Department of Transportation for further processing.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #9
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 10, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Motor Fuel Tax Project
Appropriating Resolution
Hydraulic Engineering and Survey Services
Various Locations throughout Cook County
Section: 03-6HESS-08-ES
Fiscal Impact: $350,000.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
APPROPRIATING RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, there is a need for the improvement of County Highways at stream crossings within the County; and
WHEREAS, permits to construct improvements at stream crossings are often required by agencies mandated to oversee stream crossings; and
WHEREAS, it is becoming increasingly more difficult, complex and time consuming to satisfy the regulatory requirements of said agencies; and
WHEREAS, the County Highway Department does not have the manpower to conduct the investigations required in the permitting process, in a timely manner, at all the locations requiring improvements.
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #9 cont'd
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that an outside consulting engineer conduct hydraulic analysis and surveys, delineate wetlands and floodways, prepare plan, profile, and dimensional drawings, delineate compensatory storage and/or wetland mitigation sites, prepare permit applications and perform other duties as set forth in a service contract at various locations on County Highways and said services shall be designated as Section: 03-6HESS-08-ES-MFT; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that there is hereby appropriated the sum of Three Hundred Fifty Thousand and No/100 Dollars, ($350,000.00) from the County's allotment of Motor Fuel Tax Funds for the completion of this project; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Clerk is hereby directed to transmit two (2) certified copies of this Resolution to the District Office of the Illinois Department of Transportation.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Appropriating Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #10
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 10, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Motor Fuel Tax Project
Appropriating Resolution
Surveys
Various Locations
Section: 03-6SURV-07-ES
Fiscal Impact: $250,000.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
APPROPRIATING RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the County must conduct surveys to advance design plans for the construction of various County highway improvements; and
WHEREAS, the Highway Department does not have the necessary manpower to conduct more than a limited number of surveys; and
WHEREAS, the undertaking of investigations relating to county highways is authorized under Section 605 ILCS 5/5-701.6 of the Road and Bridge Laws of Illinois.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of County Commissioners, that such surveys be conducted by an outside consulting engineering organization with review by County Forces as more fully described in the engineering services agreement executed by this Honorable Body and shall be designated as Section: 03-6SURV-07-ES; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that there is hereby appropriated the sum of Two Hundred Fifty Thousand and No/100 Dollars, ($250,000.00) from the County's allotment of Motor Fuel Tax Funds for survey services; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Clerk is hereby directed to transmit two (2) certified copies of this Resolution to the District Office of the Illinois Department of Transportation.
July 1, 2003
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #10 cont'd
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Appropriating Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #11
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 11, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Motor Fuel Tax Project
Appropriating Resolution
Traffic Studies
Various Locations
Section: 03-TCIDS-09-ES
Fiscal Impact: $250,000.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund: (600-600 Account)
APPROPRIATING RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, there is an increasing need for intersection improvements including installation and modernization of traffic signals warranted by traffic movements within the County; and
WHEREAS, it is becoming increasingly necessary to maximize the service and safety of the Cook County Highway System; and
WHEREAS, the County does not have the manpower to perform the required traffic counts and prepare the intersection design studies in a timely manner.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that an outside Consulting Engineer perform the necessary manual vehicle and pedestrian counts, prepare intersection design studies and all-way stop and traffic signal warrants and shall be designated as Section: 03-TCIDS-09-ES-MFT; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that there is hereby appropriated the sum of Two Hundred Fifty Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($250,000.00) from the County's allotment of Motor Fuel Tax Funds for the completion of this project; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Clerk is hereby directed to transmit two (2) certified copies of this Resolution to the District Office of the Illinois Department of Transportation.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Appropriating Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #12
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 11, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Supplemental Material Testing Agreement
Fiscal Year 2003 with S.T.A.T.E. Testing Laboratories, L.L.C.
Various Locations
Fiscal Impact: $90,000.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
Previously on December 3, 2002, your Honorable Body approved the initial Agreement with S.T.A.T.E. Testing Laboratories, L.L.C. in the amount of $120,000.00. This supplement is for additional technician services required for an unforeseen increase in Quality Assurance testing and an additional $90,000.00 is required to meet the testing requirements for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2003.
RESOLVED, by the Members of the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, Illinois, on behalf of the County of Cook, to authorize and direct its President to execute by original signature or his authorized signature stamp, three (3) original copies of a Supplemental Agreement with S.T.A.T.E. Testing, L.L.C. (S.T.A.T.E.): wherein S.T.A.T.E. will perform additional laboratory and field testing of soils, Portland cement concrete, and bituminous mixtures to comply with the Illinois Department of Transportation's Quality Control/Quality Assurance Program for Fiscal Year 2003; and, additional compensation shall be in the amount (not to exceed) $90,000.00, said Supplemental Agreement submitted and made part hereof; and, the Highway Department is authorized and directed to return an executed copy of this Resolution with the Supplemental Agreement to S.T.A.T.E.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Supplemental Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #13
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 13, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Right-of-Way Land Acquisition Resolution
127th Street, State Street to Archer Avenue
in the Village of Lemont
Section: 97-B5014-01-PV
Fiscal Impact: $825,500.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUISITION RESOLUTION
ROAD: 127th Street
FROM: State Street to Archer Avenue
SECTION: 97-B5014-01-P
PLAT NO: None
WHEREAS, a public highway, commonly known as 127th Street namely County Highway B50, has been designated and selected by the Cook County Board of Commissioners as a County Highway pursuant to its authority under the Illinois Highway Code, 605 ILCS (2000) 5/2-102 and such designation and selection of the County Highway has been approved by the Illinois Department of Transportation ("Department"); and
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #13 cont'd
WHEREAS, said County Highway is shown on a map that has been approved by the Department, a copy of which is on file with the County Clerk of Cook County, Illinois, as well as with the Department, as provided by statute; and
WHEREAS, the County Board, on September 9, 1997 adopted a Resolution providing for the improvement of Section: 97-B5014-01-PV of said County Highway; and
WHEREAS, the Resolution has been approved by the Department; and
WHEREAS, the County Board has adopted a Resolution stating that the public interest requires the improvement of the above mentioned Section of the County Highway and has requested of the Department that the County Highway be constructed and improved by law; and
WHEREAS, the Department did consider the desirability and importance of the proposed improvement and determined that the construction will be practically possible; and
WHEREAS, the Department determined that the improvement will be of public utility and convenience and after such consideration certified its approval of the proposed improvement to the Cook County Board of Commissioners; and
WHEREAS, having the Department's approval the Cook County Superintendent of Highways caused to be prepared proper surveys, maps, plans, specifications and estimates of cost of the proposed improvement; and
WHEREAS, said plans and surveys require that private property be taken for such improvement pursuant to authority granted under the Illinois Highway Code, 605 ILCS (2000) 5/5-801; and
WHEREAS, the private property to be taken consists of real property legally described in the exhibits submitted herewith.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT, AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, by the Cook County Board of Commissioners that the Cook County Superintendent of Highways is hereby authorized, empowered and directed on behalf of the County of Cook to negotiate with the owner(s), and/or any parties of interest in the property described herein, for the purpose of agreeing to the compensation to be paid for the property; and
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER RESOLVED, that in the event the parties cannot agree on the just compensation to be paid for the taking of the property, the State’s Attorney for Cook County, Illinois, shall institute legal proceedings in a court of competent jurisdiction for the purpose of determining the just compensation to be paid pursuant to the 735 ILCS (2000) 5/7-101. Furthermore, the State’s Attorney is authorized and directed to do any and all acts necessary and proper for the acquisition of the property described herein.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Right-of-Way Land Acquisition Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #14
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 25, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Right-of-Way Land Acquisition Resolution
West Lake Avenue, Milwaukee Avenue to Patriot Boulevard
in the Village of Glenview
Section: 95-A5919-06-RP
Fiscal Impact: $330,800.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUISITION RESOLUTION
ROAD: West Lake Avenue
FROM: Milwaukee Avenue to Patriot Boulevard
SECTION: 95-A5919-06-RP
PLAT NO: 958
WHEREAS, a public highway, commonly known as West Lake Avenue namely County Highway A59, has been designated and selected by the Cook County Board of Commissioners as a County Highway pursuant to its authority under the Illinois Highway Code, 605 ILCS (2000) 5/2-102 and such designation and selection of the County Highway has been approved by the Illinois Department of Transportation ("Department"); and
WHEREAS, said County Highway is shown on a map that has been approved by the Department, a copy of which is on file with the County Clerk of Cook County, Illinois, as well as with the Department, as provided by statute; and
WHEREAS, the County Board, on April 18, 1995 adopted a Resolution providing for the improvement of Section: 95-A5919-06-RP of said County Highway; and
WHEREAS, the Resolution has been approved by the Department; and
WHEREAS, the County Board has adopted a Resolution stating that the public interest requires the improvement of the above mentioned Section of the County Highway and has requested of the Department that the County Highway be constructed and improved by law; and
WHEREAS, the Department did consider the desirability and importance of the proposed improvement and determined that the construction will be practically possible; and
WHEREAS, the Department determined that the improvement will be of public utility and convenience and after such consideration certified its approval of the proposed improvement to the Cook County Board of Commissioners; and
WHEREAS, having the Department's approval the Cook County Superintendent of Highways caused to be prepared proper surveys, maps, plans, specifications and estimates of cost of the proposed improvement; and
WHEREAS, said plans and surveys require that private property be taken for such improvement pursuant to authority granted under the Illinois Highway Code, 605 ILCS (2000) 5/5-801; and
WHEREAS, the private property to be taken consists of real property legally described in the exhibits submitted herewith.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT, AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, by the Cook County Board of Commissioners that the Cook County Superintendent of Highways is hereby authorized, empowered and directed on behalf of the County of Cook to negotiate with the owner(s), and/or any parties of interest in the property described herein, for the purpose of agreeing to the compensation to be paid for the property; and
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #14 cont'd
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER RESOLVED, that in the event the parties cannot agree on the just compensation to be paid for the taking of the property, the State’s Attorney for Cook County, Illinois, shall institute legal proceedings in a court of competent jurisdiction for the purpose of determining the just compensation to be paid pursuant to the 735 ILCS (2000) 5/7-101. Furthermore, the State’s Attorney is authorized and directed to do any and all acts necessary and proper for the acquisition of the property described herein.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Right-of-Way Land Acquisition Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #15
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 25, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Right-of-Way Land Acquisition Resolution
67th Street at East Avenue
in the Village of Hodgkins
Section: 02-B7021-03-CH
Fiscal Impact: $17,500.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUISITION RESOLUTION
ROAD: 67th Street
FROM: At East Avenue
SECTION: 02-B7021-03-CH
PLAT NO: 957
WHEREAS, a public highway, commonly known as 67th Street namely County Highway B70, has been designated and selected by the Cook County Board of Commissioners as a County Highway pursuant to its authority under the Illinois Highway Code, 605 ILCS (2000) 5/2-102 and such designation and selection of the County Highway has been approved by the Illinois Department of Transportation ("Department"); and
WHEREAS, said County Highway is shown on a map that has been approved by the Department, a copy of which is on file with the County Clerk of Cook County, Illinois, as well as with the Department, as provided by statute; and
WHEREAS, the County Board, on June 4, 2002 adopted a Resolution providing for the improvement of Section: 02-B7021-03-CH of said County Highway; and
WHEREAS, the Resolution has been approved by the Department; and
WHEREAS, the County Board has adopted a Resolution stating that the public interest requires the improvement of the above mentioned Section of the County Highway and has requested of the Department that the County Highway be constructed and improved by law; and
WHEREAS, the Department did consider the desirability and importance of the proposed improvement and determined that the construction will be practically possible; and
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #15 cont'd
WHEREAS, the Department determined that the improvement will be of public utility and convenience and after such consideration certified its approval of the proposed improvement to the Cook County Board of Commissioners; and
WHEREAS, having the Department's approval the Cook County Superintendent of Highways caused to be prepared proper surveys, maps, plans, specifications and estimates of cost of the proposed improvement; and
WHEREAS, said plans and surveys require that private property be taken for such improvement pursuant to authority granted under the Illinois Highway Code, 605 ILCS (2000) 5/5-801; and
WHEREAS, the private property to be taken consists of real property legally described in the exhibits submitted herewith.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT, AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, by the Cook County Board of Commissioners that the Cook County Superintendent of Highways is hereby authorized, empowered and directed on behalf of the County of Cook to negotiate with the owner(s), and/or any parties of interest in the property described herein, for the purpose of agreeing to the compensation to be paid for the property; and
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER RESOLVED, that in the event the parties cannot agree on the just compensation to be paid for the taking of the property, the State’s Attorney for Cook County, Illinois, shall institute legal proceedings in a court of competent jurisdiction for the purpose of determining the just compensation to be paid pursuant to the 735 ILCS (2000) 5/7-101. Furthermore, the State’s Attorney is authorized and directed to do any and all acts necessary and proper for the acquisition of the property described herein.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Right-of-Way Land Acquisition Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #16
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 11, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Letter of Agreement between the County of Cook and Patrick Engineering, Inc.
Drainage Engineering
Various Locations
Section: 03-6HESS-08-ES
Fiscal Impact: $300,000.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
RESOLUTION
RESOLVED, by the Members of the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, Illinois, on behalf of the County of Cook, to authorize and direct its President to execute by original signature or his authorized signature stamp, three (3) copies of an Agreement with Patrick Engineering, Inc. to provide hydraulic engineering, survey services, drainage and wetland related engineering services for various locations in Cook County. These services will be requested on an as needed basis by the Department, and individual work orders will be prepared, and many more tasks more fully detailed in the Agreement may be requested (Section: 03-6HESS-08-ES). It is further resolved, that the County will compensate the Consultant the sum not to exceed $300,000.00, and the Highway Department is authorized and directed to return an executed copy of the Resolution with Agreement to the Consultant.
July 1, 2003
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MATTERS continued
RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #16 cont'd
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #17
Transmitting a Communication, dated June 11, 2003 from
WALLY S. KOS, P.E., Superintendent of Highways
Letter of Agreement between the County of Cook and Wilbur Smith Associates
Traffic Engineering Services
Various Locations
Section: 03-TCIDS-09-ES
Fiscal Impact: $200,000.00 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund (600-600 Account)
RESOLVED, by the Members of the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, Illinois, on behalf of the County of Cook, to authorize and direct its President to execute by original signature or his authorized signature stamp, three (3) copies of an Agreement with Wilbur Smith Associates, wherein the aforesaid Consultant will perform 24-hour machine counts, 12-hour and 16-hour manual traffic courts, prepare intersection and link traffic projections, perform speed analysis for segment of roadway to be determined by the County, prepare and submit an all-way stop and traffic signal warrant study for an intersection determined by the County and finally, prepare and submit an Intersection Design Study, when directed. It is further resolved, that the County shall compensate the Consultant for his services the sum not to exceed $200,000.00; and the Highway Department is authorized and directed to return an executed copy of this Resolution with the Agreement to the Consultant.
July 1, 2003
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Hansen, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
ITEM #18
Submitting a Proposed Resolution sponsored by
JOHN H. STROGER, JR., President, Cook County Board of Commissioners
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the United States Congress enacted Public Law 104-191 known as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, (the "Act"); and
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Health and Human Services has issued regulations pursuant to the Act, which regulations are commonly know as the "HIPAA Privacy Rule" and require, among other things, that Cook County enter into "business associated" and "trading partner" agreements and contract addenda ("HIPAA Agreements") with entities having access to the protected health information of County patients in order to ensure that these vendors maintain the privacy of the County patient health information; and
PROPOSED RESOLUTION continued
ITEM #18 cont'd
WHEREAS, the Chief of the Cook County Bureau of Health Services has designed a "Chief Privacy Officer" who is responsible for overseeing the Bureau's compliance with the Privacy Rule including obtaining and maintaining HIPAA Agreements.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF COOK COUNTY that the Chief of the Cook County Bureau of Health Services, its Chief Privacy Officer or other Bureau personnel if designated by said Chief, shall be authorized on behalf of Cook County to approve and execute HIPAA Agreements consistent with the Act and the Privacy Rule.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Maldonado, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
PROPOSED CONTRACT ADDENDUM
ITEM #19
Transmitting a Communication from
requesting authorization for the Purchasing Agent to increase by $84,587.00, Contract No. 02-41-811 with Legal Edge Software, Wayne, Pennsylvania, for cluster server and operating software.
|
Board approved amount 12-04-01: |
$425,400.00 |
|
Increase requested: |
84,587.00 |
|
Adjusted amount: |
$509,987.00 |
|
Reason: |
We have received a grant from the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) to purchase a backup server under this existing contract. |
Estimated Fiscal Impact: None. Grant funded amount: $84,587.00. (750-579 Account).
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Maldonado, seconded by Commissioner Steele, moved that the County Purchasing Agent be authorized to increase the requested contract. The motion carried unanimously.
PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS
ITEM #20
Submitting a Proposed Resolution sponsored by
JOHN H. STROGER, JR., PRESIDENT, JOHN P. DALEY, ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN
and JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY, County Commissioners
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom has called Ernest F. Kolb, Mayor of Oak Lawn from our midst; and
WHEREAS, a lifelong resident of Cook County and graduate of Parker High School, Mr. Kolb met his wife of 57 years, Peggy Carr at a church dance; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Kolb served in the United States Navy in World War II as a "Seabee"; and
PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #20 cont'd
WHEREAS, in 1947, the two moved to Oak Lawn where they would raise four children, Gayle Kowal, Patti Ernst, Gary Kolb and the late Glenn Kolb and later enjoy their eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Kolb was first elected as Village Clerk in 1963 and Mayor in 1977 where he served 26 years, longer than any other mayor in village history; and
WHEREAS, his contributions to the Village of Oak Lawn and the entire southland area earned him the honor of being called the "Dean" of the Southwest Conference of Mayors; and
WHEREAS, he remained active in local, state and national organizations throughout his career including the Metro Southwest Alliance; Oak Lawn Lions Club; Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce; Northeastern Illinois Greater Chicagoland Alliance; the Chicago Area Transportation Study (CATS); International Clerks Association; Executive Board of the Illinois Municipal League; and a member of the National League of Cities and the U.S. Conference of Mayors; and
WHEREAS, he was a lifetime member of the VFW Johnson-Phelps Post #5220; and
WHEREAS, with the passing of Ernest F. Kolb, we have lost a tireless and compassionate public servant who was open, honest and dedicated to all he served, making the Village of Oak Lawn a vibrant community in this great County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the more than five million residents of Cook County, does hereby express its deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathy to the family as well as the many friends and loved ones of Mayor Ernest F. Kolb; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be tendered to the family of Mayor Ernest F. Kolb so that his legacy may be so honored and ever cherished.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Daley, seconded by Commissioner Butler, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #21
Submitting a Proposed Resolution sponsored by
JOHN H. STROGER, JR., President, Cook County Board of Commissioners
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom has called former Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson from our midst; and
WHEREAS, in 1973, Mr. Jackson made history when he became the City of Atlanta's first African-American mayor at the age of just 35; and
WHEREAS, widely admired for his intellect and skills as a gifted attorney, Mayor Jackson was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, the nation's oldest and most prestigious undergraduate honors society, and
WHEREAS, with a commanding voice, strong physical presence and an affable personality, Mayor Jackson was able to impress upon Atlanta's majority business leaders the importance of becoming more inclusive and providing substantive opportunities to the city's historically excluded groups; and
PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #21 cont'd
WHEREAS, a quintessential visionary, Mayor Jackson can take great pride in a host of accomplishments that transpired under his watch, improvements such as the expansion of Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport and the opening of the city's modern rail system; Mayor Jackson also was instrumental in bringing to Atlanta the 1996 Summer Olympics; and
WHEREAS, barred from seeking a third consecutive term, Mr. Jackson focused his energies toward work as a bond attorney for eight years after the conclusion of his second term; he ran for a third term in 1989 and won with a remarkable 80 percent of the vote; and
WHEREAS, a dynamic leader and "people person", Mayor Jackson left an indelible positive impression on the City of Atlanta; and
WHEREAS, with the passing of Maynard Jackson, we have lost a brilliant, compassionate and forward -thinking public servant who fostered an attitude of inclusion and was instrumental in helping to make Atlanta the world-class city that it is today.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the more than five million residents of Cook County, does hereby express its deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathy to the family as well as the many friends and loved ones of former Atlanta Mayor, Maynard Jackson; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be tendered to the family of Maynard Jackson so that his historic legacy may be so honored and ever cherished.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Daley, seconded by Commissioner Butler, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #22
Submitting a Proposed Resolution sponsored by
JOHN H. STROGER, JR., President, Cook County Board of Commissioners
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the enticing lure of retirement has called Sandra K. Williams, Secretary to the Cook County Board of Commissioners; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Williams started working for President Stroger in 1972, two years after he became a Cook County Board Commissioner. She left County Government in 1977 but returned in 1984 for the remainder of her impressive career; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Williams brought a level-headed temperament and attention to detail that was unmatched; and
WHEREAS, Sandra’s affable personality combined with her vast institutional knowledge base and exceptional writing ability proved invaluable, not only to President Stroger, but to the other County Board members as well; and
WHEREAS, always willing to “go the extra mile,” Sandra has a way of putting people at ease even when confronting complex agenda items or vague procedural matters; and
WHEREAS, highly regarded for her sharp eyes, concise writing ability and superb editing skills, Mrs. Williams routinely found errors in so called “perfect” documents, saving countless individuals frustration down the line; and
PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #22 cont'd
WHEREAS, constantly looking for innovative ways to improve access to information and increase efficiency, Mrs. Williams embraced and even spearheaded modern initiatives such as the Secretary to the Board’s website and the concept of making Board agendas available online; and
WHEREAS, on June 27th, Sandra retired from public service after a stellar career; and
WHEREAS, Sandra now will have ample time to enjoy her many passions, such as singing and playing the piano, in addition to spending time with loving family; and
WHEREAS, Sandra K. Williams is a consummate professional whose myriad contributions to Cook County Government will be sorely missed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, John H. Stroger, Jr., along with all the Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of all the citizens of Cook County, do hereby congratulate and thank Sandra K. Williams for her many years of exemplary service and send "best wishes" for good health and happiness as she enters the timeless, carefree realm of retirement; and
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be tendered to Sandra K. Williams in recognition of the many years of exemplary service she has provided to Cook County Government.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Daley, seconded by Commissioner Butler, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
* * * * *
ITEM #23
Submitting a Proposed Resolution sponsored by
JOHN H. STROGER, JR., President, Cook County Board of Commissioners
Co-Sponsored by
JERRY BUTLER, FORREST CLAYPOOL, EARLEAN COLLINS, JOHN P. DALEY,
ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN, GREGG GOSLIN, CARL R. HANSEN,
ROBERTO MALDONADO, JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY,
ANTHONY J. PERAICA, MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS,
BOBBIE L. STEELE and LARRY SUFFREDIN, County Commissioners
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, with the impending retirement of Ruth M. Rothstein, Cook County Government will lose an internationally respected and admired leader in the health care community who has been instrumental in helping the County elevate its standard of care and make quality health care services more accessible to the region’s diverse population; and
WHEREAS, appointed interim director of Cook County Hospital in 1990 and Chief of the Bureau of Health Services in 1991, Mrs. Rothstein is credited with implementing an integrated public health care delivery system that now stands as an international model; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Rothstein has long been committed to addressing the needs of the underprivileged and fighting injustice at all levels; a perfect example is when, in her first professional position as an organizer for the United Packinghouse Union, Rothstein exposed and helped put an end to one company’s practice of systematic discrimination against women of color; and
PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS continued
ITEM #23 cont'd
WHEREAS, throughout her tenure, Mrs. Rothstein has been instrumental in the accomplishment of major health care initiatives including: acquiring re-accreditation of Cook County Hospital, opening Provident Hospital, establishing one medical school affiliation, creating an integrated County health care system, building a new Cook County Hospital and developing an ambulatory care network. Achieving one or two of these goals over the span of a career would have been a major accomplishment; Mrs. Rothstein achieved them all; and
WHEREAS, most recently, Mrs. Rothstein again demonstrated why she has received countless accolades and is an internationally admired administrator when she oversaw a Herculean task: the transfer of patients and staff from the old Cook County Hospital to the new, state-of-the-art facility; and
WHEREAS, in addition to Mrs. Rothstein’s remarkable achievements at Cook County Hospital, she also deserves praise for her work to raise money and garner political support to open the nation’s first and largest freestanding facility for the treatment of HIV and AIDS-related diseases, the CORE Center; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Rothstein has contributed immeasurably to the fulfillment of the County’s primary mission: to provide access to care for all persons, regardless of ability to pay, while providing excellent patient care for all; and
WHEREAS, despite her tough, no-nonsense demeanor, Mrs. Rothstein personifies the word “compassion.” As she often states and clearly believes, “health care is a right and not a privilege. If it’s a right, we must find a system that gives all the same level of care. When you improve the health status of the poorest, you improve the health status of everyone.”
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the more than five million residents of Cook County, do hereby recognize Mrs. Ruth M. Rothstein’s selfless commitment to provide top quality health care services to the often ignored, medically indigent members of society, and send “best wishes” for good health and happiness as she enters a new phase of her professional life; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners recognizes Mrs. Ruth M. Rothstein for her historic legacy of achievement and groundbreaking contributions to the health care community.
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Daley, seconded by Commissioner Butler, moved that the Resolution be approved and adopted. The motion carried unanimously.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RELATIONS
ITEM #24
June 24, 2003
The Honorable,
The Board of Commissioners of Cook County
ATTENDANCE
Present: Chairman Quigley, Vice Chairman Silvestri, Commissioners Daley, Peraica and Steele (5)
Absent: None (0)
Also Present: Commissioners Butler, Collins, Gorman, Goslin, Maldonado, Murphy and Suffredin (7); Helen Haynes - Assistant State’s Attorney, State’s Attorney’s Office; Brandon Neese - Deputy County Clerk.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RELATIONS continued
ITEM #24 cont'd
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Your Committee on Human Relations of the Board of Commissioners of Cook County met pursuant to notice on Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at the hour of 9:30 A.M. in the Board Room, Room 569, County Building, 118 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois.
Your Committee has considered the following item for informational purposes, only:
259884 DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP REGISTRY ORDINANCE (PROPOSED ORDINANCE). Submitting a Proposed Ordinance sponsored by Mike Quigley, John P. Daley and President John H. Stroger, Jr., County Commissioners; Co-Sponsored by Forrest Claypool, Earlean Collins, Roberto Maldonado, Joseph Mario Moreno, Joan Patricia Murphy, Deborah Sims, Bobbie L. Steele and Larry Suffredin, County Commissioners.
PROPOSED ORDINANCE
DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP REGISTRY ORDINANCE
WHEREAS, our society has created diverse living arrangements and an expanded concept of the family unit; and
WHEREAS, many persons today live as families in enduring, committed relationships other than legal marriages; and
WHEREAS, the County of Cook has an interest in supporting all caring, committed and responsible family units; and
WHEREAS, the County also recognizes that it is in the public interest for persons in committed relationships and who share common households to be able to register those relationships formally; and
WHEREAS, over 5,000 companies, foundations, unions, and nonprofit organizations have Domestic Partnership Benefit programs; and
WHEREAS, Cook County would be providing a service to those companies, foundations, unions and non-profits in Cook County by creating an official depository of information with a government agency; and
WHEREAS, a government-issued certificate of registered domestic partnership makes it easier for small businesses to provide benefits to all types of families.
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY ORDAINED, by the Cook County Board of Commissioners, AN ORDINANCE to assure that individuals shall be able to register their Domestic Partnerships with the Cook County Clerk.
DEFINITIONS
DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP REGISTRATION
FORM OF AFFIDAVIT OF DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP
AMENDMENT OF AFFIDAVIT OF DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP
TERMINATION OF REGISTERED DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP
FEES
OBLIGATIONS OF NEW DOMESTIC PARTNERS
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RELATIONS continued
ITEM #24 cont'd
RECORDS
SEVERABILITY
EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall take effect ninety (90) days after its passage.
*Referred to the Human Relations Committee on 6/17/03.
Chairman Quigley asked Brandon Neese of the County Clerk’s Office to give an overview to the committee.
Brandon Neese of the County Clerk’s Office stated that the registry process would fall in line with other activities of the County Clerk’s Office. Also there would be no difficulty administrating the ordinance. He stated that there would also be a $30.00 filing fee.
Chairman Quigley stated that he received a letter from County Clerk David Orr supporting the ordinance and it should be made part of the record. (The referenced document is on file in the Office of the County Clerk.)
In response to Commissioner Daley’s question regarding whether the registration would take place in the County Building or would it also be available in the satellite office’s, Brandon Neese responded that it would start in the downtown office and over a period of time expand to the satellite offices.
In response to Chairman Quigley’s question regarding whether the $30.00 filing fee would cover the cost, Brandon Neese responded in the affirmative.
Chairman Quigley asked if the Clerk’s Office would need additional personnel or an increased budget to administer this ordinance.
Mr. Neese stated the no new personnel would be hired and no increase in budget appropriation was needed.
Brandon Neese stated that the fees would more than cover the ancillary costs.
Chairman Quigley asked Helen Haynes, State’s Attorney’s Office to give a brief overview.
Helen Haynes advised Chairman Quigley that the State’s Attorney’s Office had reviewed the ordinance and determined that it was within Cook County Home Rule authority to adopt a Domestic Partnership Registry Ordinance.
Commissioner Peraica asked why the definition of “Domestic Partnership” is limited to same sex partners and he also asked what the constitutionality of the definition is since it is limited to same sex partners.
Helen Haynes stated that the definition was a policy decision and the rational was that a person of the opposite sex has the legal option to marry.
Commissioner Peraica asked if in effect, it violates the federal defense of marriage act.
Ms. Haynes stated that she needs to review the statute.
Commissioner Peraica stated that he was concerned the people would have a false sense of security.
Ms. Haynes responded that the ordinance does not extend benefits but that it is useful for employers to provide benefits.
Commissioner Steele asked if there is dissolution of partnership and if there is a fee?
Brandon Neese stated that there is a process for dissolution, but no determination has been made as to the cost. The County Clerk’s Office would come before the County Board with a fee ordinance. He further stated that the fee would be around $10.00 for dissolution.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RELATIONS continued
ITEM #24 cont'd
Chairman Quigley stated that he had his staff distribute fact sheets to the commissioners.
The following people offered public testimony:
1. Meghan Streit - Executive Secretary, Chicago NOW
2. John Conerty - Concerned Citizen
3. Honorable Thomas M. Tunney - 44th Ward Alderman
4. George Blakemore - Concerned Citizen
5. Harvey Grossman - Legal Director, American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois
6. Ralph Rivera - Family PAC
7. Rick Garcia - Director, Equality Illinois
8. William W. Greaves - Director/Community Liaison, Chicago Commission on Human Relations
9. Reverend Dallas Gordon - Assistant Pastor Lorimer Baptist Church
10. Reverend Ceasar LeFlore - President of LEARN
11. Darryl Burton - Business Owner, Global Financial Services
12. Reverend Derrick Rodgers - Minister
In response to Commissioner Peraica’s previous question regarding “Defense of Marriage Act” Chairman Quigley stated that the State’s Attorney’s Office provided him with an opinion from the Illinois Attorney General, which he will distribute to the commissioners.
Chairman Quigley stated that this meeting was held to hear public testimony and that no vote would be taken. He notified the committee that a subsequent meeting would be held prior to Tuesday, July 1, 2003 Cook County Board Meeting.
In response to Commissioner Peraica’s question regarding “false sense of security” Rick Garcia stated that it’s important that Cook County recognizes the value of domestic partnerships.
In response to Commissioner Silvestri’s question regarding how a registry affects same sex couples that have children, Rick Garcia stated that it gives children knowledge that the government recognizes their parent’s relationship.
In closing Chairman Quigley responded to Reverend Rodgers' concern that children should not be exposed to discussion about a domestic partnership registry. Chairman Quigley stated that it is important to talk to children regarding all aspects of life, so that they are able to make sound decisions on their own.
Commissioner Steele moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Vice Chairman Silvestri. The motion carried and the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RELATIONS
MIKE QUIGLEY, Chairman
ATTEST: SANDRA K. WILLIAMS, Secretary
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Maldonado, seconded by Commissioner Murphy, moved that the Report of the Committee on Human Relations be received and filed. The motion carried unanimously.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HOSPITALS
ITEM #25
June 24, 2003
The Honorable,
The Board of Commissioners of Cook County
ATTENDANCE
Present: Chairman Butler, Vice Chairman Goslin, Commissioners Claypool, Collins, Daley, Gorman, Hansen, Maldonado, Moreno, Murphy, Peraica, Quigley, Silvestri, Sims, Steele, Suffredin and President Stroger (17)
Absent: None (0)
Also Present: Patrick Driscoll and Elizabeth Reidy - State's Attorney's Office
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Your Committee on Health and Hospitals of the Board of Commissioners of Cook County met pursuant to notice on Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at the hour of 11:00 A.M. in the Board Room, Room 569, County Building, 118 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois.
Your Committee has considered the following item for informational purposes, only:
259883 A RESOLUTION REGARDING THE DEMOLITION OR REUSE OF COOK COUNTY HOSPITAL (PROPOSED RESOLUTION). Submitting a Proposed Resolution sponsored by Peter N. Silvestri and Larry Suffredin, County Commissioners; Co-Sponsored by Mike Quigley and Joan Patricia Murphy, County Commissioners.
WHEREAS, the decision to demolish Cook County Hospital was made in 1999 based on a 1988 study and a limited examination of space alternatives to meet zoning requirements; and
WHEREAS, that decision was based primarily on a 1988 study that focused on the rehabilitation and reuse of the structure for the purposes of a hospital or for educational and offices uses for the hospital; and
WHEREAS, in 1988 there was not a significant track record of redevelopment of buildings of this size, and since that time, great strides have been made in the rehabilitation/reuse of large historic structures, such as Medinah Temple, the Reliance Building, the Montgomery Ward Warehouse, Chicago’s Theatre District, and the Milwaukee County Hospital; and
WHEREAS, federal and local tax credits and incentives of more than $20 million are in place now that did not exist when the study was done, drastically improving the economic feasibility of such a project that can have mixed uses, including medical offices, clinic space, medical conference space, retail for medical staff and the community and residential units; and
WHEREAS, Cook County Hospital is significant both as one of the city’s best examples of Beaux Arts-style architecture and for its national historic significance treating the indigent and developing innovative treatments for such things as burns and sickle cell anemia; and
WHEREAS, every new citizen group of Cook County was treated with dignity and medical expertise at Cook County Hospital from 1914 to 2003; and
WHEREAS, in part because of its architectural and historic significance, Cook County Hospital was chosen to be the model for the television series “ER”, and the façade of the hospital has since become a symbol of Chicago recognized around the world; and
WHEREAS, in addition to historic and architectural benefits, preservation of such structures serves as an economic catalyst to the area; and
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HOSPITALS continued
ITEM #25 cont'd
WHEREAS, redeveloping the main hospital site excluding the Children’s Hospital, power plant, 12KV Building and other additions would put the two-block-long property on the tax rolls and meet all required zoning; and
WHEREAS, much of the “demolition preparation contract” (approved 8/1/02) focused on planning efforts, including building documentation, utility relocation plans, and asbestos and other environmental removal, initiatives that would have to be done regardless of whether the building is demolished or reused; and
WHEREAS, a contract for the actual demolition has not been proposed, reviewed or approved; and
WHEREAS, actual demolition will cost the County from $20-$30 million and the actual tax credits a developer could pay the County are in excess of $20 million, in addition to future real estate tax revenues; and
WHEREAS, demolition and creation of another passive park, similar to Pasteur Park will have no direct community benefits; and
WHEREAS, a reuse of the building has many direct community benefits; and
WHEREAS, although the discussion to consider demolishment of the hospital goes back as far as 1988, the demolition or preservation of the structure will be a major decision of this Board of Commissioners, many of whom have little to no information about the project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Board of Commissioners of Cook County hold a hearing to discuss the demolition or reuse of the hospital and to consider the cost savings that could result from the main hospital building’s reuse, in whole or in part without any financial contribution from the County of Cook, prior to proceeding with a demolition contract.
Chairman Butler noted that the first order of business would be a presentation by Commissioner Suffredin followed by public testimony. The chairman also entered a letter into the record from State’s Attorney Richard Devine. (The referenced document is on file in the Office of the County Clerk.)
President Stroger referred to a letter dated June 23, 2003 from the Cook County State’s Attorney wherein the Office opines that the county is obligated to demolish the former hospital building. President Stroger asked that this letter be made a part of the record.
Commissioner Suffredin commented that he and Commissioner Silvestri, the co-sponsor of the proposed resolution would make statements while images of the 1914 main hospital building would be shown on a projection screen. The commissioner noted that the issue is not with the Children’s Hospital, power plant, 12KB Building or the finger additions on the south side of the 1914 main hospital building, which they believe should be demolished, but the issue is with the demolition of the 1914 main hospital building as it was when it first opened. He further noted that the proposed resolution is consistent with the State’s Attorney’s opinion. He said the planned development issued by the City of Chicago, to which the Medical District and Cook County complied, calls for 40 percent building occupancy and the county is currently 5 percent out of compliance. He further noted the proposed resolution suggests certain buildings be demolished and with the construction of the planned parking lot, the county would then come within compliance.
Commissioner Suffredin, citing a legal opinion from the State’s Attorney, commented that an amendment would have to be approved by the County Board to make the changes. He stated that the reason we believe these changes are reasonable is because many things have happened in the law and in society since the Board passed the resolution in April 1999 to demolish all the existing buildings. There are federal tax credits totaling $20 million that the current administration has expanded that are now available for anyone who comes up with a reuse proposal. The commissioner concluded his remarks by stating that there are other needs in the Medical District such as medical offices, medical conferencing and very little housing for medical personnel.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HOSPITALS continued
ITEM #25 cont'd
Commissioner Silvestri noted that the proposed resolution calls for a meeting to be held to determine if there is interest in redeveloping the main hospital building at no cost to the taxpayers. Before the final demolition occurs, the Board should have an opportunity to see if there is re-adaptive use for the building not only for historic reasons but also for the financial consideration of the cost of demolition.
Commissioner Suffredin then referred to the slide presentation and noted that the County has set-aside between $20 and $30 million in bonds for the demolition costs. The County can save between $15 and $20 million if the main 1914 hospital building is not demolished. He noted that there are four ways the County can financially benefit from reusing the building: 1) saving the demolition costs, 2) because there is $20 million in tax credits, have a developer who would pay a portion of that to access those credits, 3) the building would go back on the tax rolls and the County would receive real estate property taxes and 4) the County would have the ability to share in rent and other revenues that would come from the building.
Commissioner Suffredin stated he had spoken to four major developers who indicated that if the County had a full hearing, and if they were given the opportunity to look at the building, they believe that capital for this type of project would be available given the current economy. He further stated the County could do a mixed-use building that would include medical offices, conferencing space and some residences. He noted the County is bound by federal law to do the environmental clean-ups whether the building is demolished or re-used. The commissioner urged an affirmative vote on the proposed resolution, and ended his remarks by saying that having a full hearing on this subject is in the best interest of the people of Cook County and that ultimately there may be a cash flow swing of between $30 to $50 million.
Referring to a document prepared by the Bureau of Health Services, Chairman Butler commented that while the main hospital building is open and inoperative, it is not empty. He noted that to keep the building open, the weekly operating costs total a little more than $74,000. The chairman then asked that the document be entered into the record. (The referenced document is on file in the Office of the County Clerk.)
Commissioner Murphy remarked that the current operating costs for the main hospital building would have to be paid until a decision is made regarding demolition of the building. She noted that the operating costs would still have to be paid regardless of the hearings. If no viable responses were received for possible reuse of the building, then the vote would go toward demolition. The time it would take to hold hearings is very short but the gain to the County, if it is reused, could be very great.
President Stroger commented that he understands the sentimental value of saving the old hospital building for historical reasons and to meet the need for more housing, but currently there is an abundance of housing in the area. The President reiterated his commitment to abiding by the previously signed documents and the best interests of the public would be served by demolishing the old hospital building. President Stroger noted that because there is a lack of adequate hospital parking the County is currently shuttling staff back and forth from the hospital to the Juvenile Temporary Detention Center, which has had added costs to the budget. The President remarked that he understands that the sponsors of the proposed resolution want the public to be involved in the process. He concluded by asking that the following documents be entered into the record: the State’s Attorney’s legal opinion, letter from the Illinois Medical District and the engineer’s report. (The referenced documents are on file in the Office of the County Clerk.)
Commissioner Hansen noted that the question of the future of the main hospital building has been before the County for many years and previous comments have suggested that from a financial perspective, the building can be saved and simultaneously have the taxpayers come out ahead. The commissioner urged closer examination of the proposed resolution based on the above statements. Commissioner Hansen further noted that the Administration Building (the former School of Nursing), supports the retention of the main hospital building since it is on the list to be demolished. He said that hospital staff currently housed in the Administration Building could be moved to the renovated main hospital building. The commissioner noted that hearings should be held to determine if there is a residual value to the building in addition to aesthetics, in a financial sense, and as a residence for physicians. He concluded by saying that the Board has an opportunity to save something that was previously described as Cook County’s Statute of Liberty.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HOSPITALS continued
ITEM #25 cont'd
Chairman Butler then called for testimony from the following public speakers:
Mr. David Bahlman, President Landmark Preservation Council of Illinois
Mr. Peter DeCamp Written statement only
Mr. Ray Winters Written statement only
Ms. Lisa Weissman National Trust for Historical Preservation
Mr. Michael Moran Vice President, Preservation Chicago
Mr. Jonathan Fine President, Preservation Chicago
Mr. Dan Laskowski Concerned Citizen
Mr. Edward Bowe Concerned Citizen
Mr. George Blakemore Concerned Citizen
Mr. William Wendt Concerned Citizen
Commissioner Steele commented that several proponents of the proposed resolution discussed preserving the main hospital building and converting it to either physician offices, a health club, a spa, rehabilitation center, a Ronald McDonald House, but a developer has not come forward with any definitive plans.
In response to a question by Commissioner Steele, Assistant State’s Attorney Elizabeth Reidy remarked that the fact that the previous County Board acted to approve plans for demolition does not prohibit it from taking another action. The Board could approach the Illinois Medical District seeking an amendment to their Master District Plan that would accommodate plans for the preservation of the former main hospital building.
President Stroger noted that the County Board is part of the Illinois Medical District since the Board voted to approve developing the District to preserve the practice of medical and education in that geographic area. He said although many of the plans previously discussed may be good plans, they are not consistent with the original concept of the Medical District. The President referred to a letter from the former Chicago Planning Commissioner, Christopher Hill whose department had control over zoning and special uses, which the County Board has followed. The President also noted that the hospital might need additional land to conduct research and bring the down costs. He further stated that many hospital artifacts can and will be saved before demolition.
In response to a question from Commissioner Collins, Michael LaMont, Director of the Office of Capital Planning and Policy stated that demolition cost estimates have not been formally presented to the Board because his office has been working with consultants. Mr. LaMont indicated that the Office of Capital Planning and Policy and the consultants have examined the buildings to determine the amount of asbestos removal, how much abatement is required, and other necessities. He stated that a document previously distributed at today’s meeting reflects approximately $20 million, which is still an estimate and until the work is bid, the County will not know the exact costs.
Commissioner Collins reiterated her concerns regarding the County having adequate estimates so that once the County moves forward the public will not feel they have been deceived by doubling or tripling the costs.
In response to comments from President Stroger, Michael LaMont read into the record a summary of activities that have taken place and the demolition plan that includes cost estimates. Mr. LaMont indicated that two types of work will take place: abatement/environmental remediation and the demolition. He said estimates were developed based on 50 percent complete contract documents and he does not expect final costs to deviate greatly. The estimates include a 5 percent contingency for environmental work and the estimate for this work (including the contingency) is $8.9 million for the powerhouse, the Children’s Hospital and the Main Hospital. He said estimated costs for the demolition work and site work associated with bringing the site back up to ground level for all three buildings is $9.7 million. Mr. LaMont noted that the estimated total is slightly less than $20 million but stated that the County might want to increase the contingency to 10 percent, which would increase the figures.
In response to President Stroger’s comments regarding environmental issues, Mr. LaMont stated that these issues greatly impact on the contingency range and estimates. He concluded by saying that until the building is completely examined and the abatement activity started, it would be difficult to pinpoint exact costs.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HOSPITALS continued
ITEM #25 cont'd
In response to Commissioner Suffredin’s question regarding the document on Abatement Activity Duration, Mr. LaMont noted that every thing is premised on the County Board’s permission to advertise contracts in July because of the 3 to 4 month purchasing process prior to the County actually applying for the permits. Mr. LaMont indicated that he did not believe informational hearings could be conducted during this time period without holding up demolition plans because the Office of Capital Planning & Policy intended to request permission to advertise for the abatement and demolition at the July Board meeting. The next step would be to proceed to have the plans out for competitive bid since there are no Board meetings planned for the summer and any action to have hearing would impact this timeline.
Michael LaMont commented that for historical purposes, consideration has always been given to architecturally salvaging certain hospital artifacts for historical purposes as reflected in the Demolition Plan.
In response to President Stroger’s comments, Commissioner Sims noted that the hospital columns on the old building are crumbling and not as solid as they appear. The commissioner indicated that the architects believe the figureheads on the buildings can be salvaged in addition to saving the hospital entrance and making it a walk-through to the park as a way of saving part of the hospital’s history.
Chairman Butler declared that the next meeting of the Health and Hospitals Committee would be at 10:00 A.M., Monday, June 30, 2003.
The transcript for this meeting is available in the Office of the Secretary to the Board, 118 North Clark Street, Room 567, Chicago, Illinois 60602.
Respectfully submitted,
COMMITTEE ON HEALTH and HOSPITALS
JERRY BUTLER, Chairman
ATTEST: SANDRA K. WILLIAMS, Secretary
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Butler, seconded by Commissioner Maldonado, moved that the Report of the Committee on Health and Hospitals be received and filed. The motion carried unanimously.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONSTRUCTION
ITEM #26
June 24, 2003
The Honorable,
The Board of Commissioners of Cook County
ATTENDANCE
Present: Chairman Sims, Vice Chairman Butler, Commissioners Collins, Gorman, Hansen, Moreno and Silvestri (7)
Absent: None (0)
Also Present: Patrick Driscoll and Elizabeth Reidy - State's Attorney's Office.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONSTRUCTION continued
ITEM #26 cont'd
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Your Committee on Construction of the Board of Commissioners of Cook County met pursuant to notice on Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at the hour of 11:00 A.M. in the Board Room, Room 569, County Building, 118 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois.
Your Committee has considered the following items for informational purposes, only:
259871 BUREAU OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND AUTOMATION, by Catherine Maras O’Leary, Chief Information Officer, transmitting a Communication:
requesting authorization for the Purchasing Agent to increase by $1,143,250.00, Contract No. 01-41-1139 with AVAYA, INC., Lisle, Illinois, for installation of a state of the art telephone system.
Board approved amount 06-19-01: $3,200,000.00
This increase requested: 1,143,250.00
Adjusted amount: $4,343,250.00
Reason: This request is for the purchase of additional telecommunications equipment for the Stroger Hospital of Cook County campus. In 2001, the telecommunications needs of Stroger Hospital of Cook County were estimated and Avaya, Inc. was awarded a contract for the work. After that procurement, additional dial tone requirements for the hospital medical systems and the increased voice/data requirements in the Administration and Hektoen buildings were identified by the Bureau of Health Services. These additional requirements were for an additional 2,200 dial tones. Now, additional Avaya equipment is required to provide for the telecommunication needs of the Administration and Hektoen buildings.
Estimated Fiscal Impact: $1,143,250.00. Bond Issue (20000 Account).
Sufficient funds have been appropriated to cover this request.
*Referred to the Construction Committee on June 17, 2003.
259882 A RESOLUTION REGARDING THE DEMOLITION OR REUSE OF COOK COUNTY HOSPITAL (PROPOSED RESOLUTION). Submitting a Proposed Resolution sponsored by Peter N. Silvestri and Larry Suffredin, County Commissioners; Co-Sponsored by Mike Quigley and Joan Patricia Murphy, County Commissioners.
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the decision to demolish Cook County Hospital was made in 1999 based on a 1988 study and a limited examination of space alternatives to meet zoning requirements; and
WHEREAS, that decision was based primarily on a 1988 study that focused on the rehabilitation and reuse of the structure for the purposes of a hospital or for educational and offices uses for the hospital; and
WHEREAS, in 1988 there was not a significant track record of redevelopment of buildings of this size, and since that time, great strides have been made in the rehabilitation/reuse of large historic structures, such as Medinah Temple, the Reliance Building, the Montgomery Ward Warehouse, Chicago’s Theatre District, and the Milwaukee County Hospital; and
WHEREAS, federal and local tax credits and incentives of more than $20 million are in place now that did not exist when the study was done, drastically improving the economic feasibility of such a project that can have mixed uses, including medical offices, clinic space, medical conference space, retail for medical staff and the community and residential units; and
WHEREAS, Cook County Hospital is significant both as one of the city’s best examples of Beaux Arts-style architecture and for its national historic significance treating the indigent and developing innovative treatments for such things as burns and sickle cell anemia; and
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONSTRUCTION continued
ITEM #26 cont'd
WHEREAS, every new citizen group of Cook County was treated with dignity and medical expertise at Cook County Hospital from 1914 to 2003; and
WHEREAS, in part because of its architectural and historic significance, Cook County Hospital was chosen to be the model for the television series “ER”, and the façade of the hospital has since become a symbol of Chicago recognized around the world; and
WHEREAS, in addition to historic and architectural benefits, preservation of such structures serves as an economic catalyst to the area; and
WHEREAS, redeveloping the main hospital site excluding the Children’s Hospital, power plant, 12KV Building and other additions would put the two-block-long property on the tax rolls and meet all required zoning; and
WHEREAS, much of the “demolition preparation contract” (approved 8/1/02) focused on planning efforts, including building documentation, utility relocation plans, and asbestos and other environmental removal, initiatives that would have to be done regardless of whether the building is demolished or reused; and
WHEREAS, a contract for the actual demolition has not been proposed, reviewed or approved; and
WHEREAS, actual demolition will cost the County from $20-$30 million and the actual tax credits a developer could pay the County are in excess of $20 million, in addition to future real estate tax revenues; and
WHEREAS, demolition and creation of another passive park, similar to Pasteur Park will have no direct community benefits; and
WHEREAS, a reuse of the building has many direct community benefits; and
WHEREAS, although the discussion to consider demolishment of the hospital goes back as far as 1988, the demolition or preservation of the structure will be a major decision of this Board of Commissioners, many of whom have little to no information about the project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Board of Commissioners of Cook County hold a hearing to discuss the demolition or reuse of the hospital and to consider the cost savings that could result from the main hospital building’s reuse, in whole or in part without any financial contribution from the County of Cook, prior to proceeding with a demolition contract.
*Referred to the Construction Committee on 6/17/03.
Health and Hospitals Committee Chairman Butler noted that the first order of business would be a presentation by Commissioner Suffredin followed by public testimony. The chairman also entered a letter into the record from State’s Attorney Richard Devine. (The referenced document is on file in the Office of the County Clerk.)
President Stroger referred to a letter dated June 23, 2003 from the Cook County State’s Attorney wherein the Office opines that the county is obligated to demolish the former hospital building. President Stroger asked that this letter be made a part of the record.
Commissioner Suffredin commented that he and Commissioner Silvestri, the co-sponsor of the proposed resolution would make statements while images of the 1914 main hospital building would be shown on a projection screen. The commissioner noted that the issue is not with the Children’s Hospital, power plant, 12KB Building or the finger additions on the south side of the 1914 main hospital building, which they believe should be demolished, but the issue is with the demolition of the 1914 main hospital building as it was when it first opened. He further noted that the proposed resolution is consistent with the State’s Attorney’s opinion. He said the planned development issued by the City of Chicago, to which the Medical District and Cook County complied, calls for 40 percent building occupancy and the county is currently 5 percent out of compliance. He further noted the proposed resolution suggests certain buildings be demolished and with the construction of the planned parking lot, the county would then come within compliance.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONSTRUCTION continued
ITEM #26 cont'd
Commissioner Suffredin, citing a legal opinion from the State’s Attorney, commented that an amendment would have to be approved by the County Board to make the changes. He stated that the reason we believe these changes are reasonable is because many things have happened in the law and in society since the Board passed the resolution in April 1999 to demolish all the existing buildings. There are federal tax credits totaling $20 million that the current administration has expanded that are now available for anyone who comes up with a reuse proposal. The commissioner concluded his remarks by stating that there are other needs in the Medical District such as medical offices, medical conferencing and very little housing for medical personnel.
Commissioner Silvestri noted that the proposed resolution calls for a meeting to be held to determine if there is interest in redeveloping the main hospital building at no cost to the taxpayers. Before the final demolition occurs, the Board should have an opportunity to see if there is re-adaptive use for the building not only for historic reasons but also for the financial consideration of the cost of demolition.
Commissioner Suffredin then referred to the slide presentation and noted that the County has set-aside between $20 and $30 million in bonds for the demolition costs. The County can save between $15 and $20 million if the main 1914 hospital building is not demolished. He noted that there are four ways the County can financially benefit from reusing the building: 1) saving the demolition costs, 2) because there is $20 million in tax credits, have a developer who would pay a portion of that to access those credits, 3) the building would go back on the tax rolls and the County would receive real estate property taxes and 4) the County would have the ability to share in rent and other revenues that would come from the building.
Commissioner Suffredin stated he had spoken to four major developers who indicated that if the County had a full hearing, and if they were given the opportunity to look at the building, they believe that capital for this type of project would be available given the current economy. He further stated the County could do a mixed-use building that would include medical offices, conferencing space and some residences. He noted the County is bound by federal law to do the environmental clean-ups whether the building is demolished or re-used. The commissioner urged an affirmative vote on the proposed resolution, and ended his remarks by saying that having a full hearing on this subject is in the best interest of the people of Cook County and that ultimately there may be a cash flow swing of between $30 to $50 million.
Referring to a document prepared by the Bureau of Health Services, Health and Hospitals Committee Chairman Butler commented that while the main hospital building is open and inoperative, it is not empty. He noted that to keep the building open, the weekly operating costs total a little more than $74,000. The chairman then asked that the document be entered into the record. (The referenced document is on file in the Office of the County Clerk.)
Commissioner Murphy remarked that the current operating costs for the main hospital building would have to be paid until a decision is made regarding demolition of the building. She noted that the operating costs would still have to be paid regardless of the hearings. If no viable responses were received for possible reuse of the building, then the vote would go toward demolition. The time it would take to hold hearings is very short but the gain to the County, if it is reused, could be very great.
President Stroger commented that he understands the sentimental value of saving the old hospital building for historical reasons and to meet the need for more housing, but currently there is an abundance of housing in the area. The President reiterated his commitment to abiding by the previously signed documents and the best interests of the public would be served by demolishing the old hospital building. President Stroger noted that because there is a lack of adequate hospital parking the County is currently shuttling staff back and forth from the hospital to the Juvenile Temporary Detention Center, which has had added costs to the budget. The President remarked that he understands that the sponsors of the proposed resolution want the public to be involved in the process. He concluded by asking that the following documents be entered into the record: the State’s Attorney’s legal opinion, letter from the Illinois Medical District and the engineer’s report. (The referenced documents are on file in the Office of the County Clerk.)
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONSTRUCTION continued
ITEM #26 cont'd
Commissioner Hansen noted that the question of the future of the main hospital building has been before the County for many years and previous comments have suggested that from a financial perspective, the building can be saved and simultaneously have the taxpayers come out ahead. The commissioner urged closer examination of the proposed resolution based on the above statements. Commissioner Hansen further noted that the Administration Building (the former School of Nursing), supports the retention of the main hospital building since it is on the list to be demolished. He said that hospital staff currently housed in the Administration Building could be moved to the renovated main hospital building. The commissioner noted that hearings should be held to determine if there is a residual value to the building in addition to aesthetics, in a financial sense, and as a residence for physicians. He concluded by saying that the Board has an opportunity to save something that was previously described as Cook County’s Statute of Liberty.
Health and Hospitals Committee Chairman Butler then called for testimony from the following public speakers:
Mr. David Bahlman, President Landmark Preservation Council of Illinois
Mr. Peter DeCamp Written statement only
Mr. Ray Winters Written statement only
Ms. Lisa Weissman National Trust for Historical Preservation
Mr. Michael Moran Vice President, Preservation Chicago
Mr. Jonathan Fine President, Preservation Chicago
Mr. Dan Laskowski Concerned Citizen
Mr. Edward Bowe Concerned Citizen
Mr. George Blakemore Concerned Citizen
Mr. William Wendt Concerned Citizen
Commissioner Steele commented that several proponents of the proposed resolution discussed preserving the main hospital building and converting it to either physician offices, a health club, a spa, rehabilitation center, a Ronald McDonald House, but a developer has not come forward with any definitive plans.
In response to a question by Commissioner Steele, Assistant State’s Attorney Elizabeth Reidy remarked that the fact that the previous County Board acted to approve plans for demolition does not prohibit it from taking another action. The Board could approach the Illinois Medical District seeking an amendment to their Master District Plan that would accommodate plans for the preservation of the former main hospital building.
President Stroger noted that the County Board is part of the Illinois Medical District since the Board voted to approve developing the District to preserve the practice of medical and education in that geographic area. He said although many of the plans previously discussed may be good plans, they are not consistent with the original concept of the Medical District. The President referred to a letter from the former Chicago Planning Commissioner, Christopher Hill whose department had control over zoning and special uses, which the County Board has followed. The President also noted that the hospital might need additional land to conduct research and bring the down costs. He further stated that many hospital artifacts can and will be saved before demolition.
In response to a question from Commissioner Collins, Michael LaMont, Director of the Office of Capital Planning and Policy stated that demolition cost estimates have not been formally presented to the Board because his office has been working with consultants. Mr. LaMont indicated that the Office of Capital Planning and Policy and the consultants have examined the buildings to determine the amount of asbestos removal, how much abatement is required, and other necessities. He stated that a document previously distributed at today’s meeting that reflects approximately $20 million, which is still an estimate and until the work is bid, the County will not know the exact costs.
Commissioner Collins reiterated her concerns regarding the County having adequate estimates so that once the County moves forward the public will not feel they have been deceived by doubling or tripling the costs.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONSTRUCTION continued
ITEM #26 cont'd
In response to comments from President Stroger, Michael LaMont read into the record a summary of activities that have taken place and the demolition plan that includes cost estimates. Mr. LaMont indicated that two types of work will take place: abatement/environmental remediation and the demolition. He said estimates were developed based on 50 percent complete contract documents and he does not expect final costs to deviate greatly. The estimates include a 5 percent contingency for environmental work and the estimate for this work (including the contingency) is $8.9 million for the powerhouse, the Children’s Hospital and the Main Hospital. He said estimated costs for the demolition work and site work associated with bringing the site back up to ground level for all three buildings is $9.7 million. Mr. LaMont noted that the estimated total is slightly less than $20 million but stated that the County might want to increase the contingency to 10 percent, which would increase the figures.
In response to President Stroger’s comments regarding environmental issues, Mr. LaMont stated that these issues greatly impact on the contingency range and estimates. He concluded by saying that until the building is completely examined and the abatement activity started, it would be difficult to pinpoint exact costs.
In response to Commissioner Suffredin’s question regarding the document on Abatement Activity Duration, Mr. LaMont noted that every thing is premised on the County Board’s permission to advertise contracts in July because of the 3 to 4 month purchasing process prior to the County actually applying for the permits. Mr. LaMont indicated that he did not believe informational hearings could be conducted during this time period without holding up demolition plans because the Office of Capital Planning & Policy intended to request permission to advertise for the abatement and demolition at the July Board meeting. The next step would be to proceed to have the plans out for competitive bid since there are no Board meetings planned for the summer and any action to have hearing would impact this timeline.
Michael LaMont commented that for historical purposes, consideration has always been given to architecturally salvaging certain hospital artifacts for historical purposes as reflected in the Demolition Plan.
In response to President Stroger’s comments, Chairman Sims noted that the hospital columns on the old building are crumbling and not as solid as they appear. The commissioner indicated that the architects believe the figureheads on the buildings can be salvaged in addition to saving the hospital entrance and making it a walk-through to the park as a way of saving part of the hospital’s history.
Chairman Sims declared that the next meeting of the Construction Committee would be at 10:00 A.M., Monday, June 30, 2003.
The transcript for this meeting is available in the Office of the Secretary to the Board, 118 North Clark Street, Room 567, Chicago, Illinois 60602.
Respectfully submitted,
COMMITTEE ON CONSTRUCTION
DEBORAH SIMS, Chairman
ATTEST: SANDRA K. WILLIAMS, Secretary
_________________________
Commissioner Steele, seconded by Commissioner Hansen, moved to suspend the rules so that this matter may be considered. The motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Sims, seconded by Commissioner Maldonado, moved that the Report of the Committee on Construction be received and filed. The motion carried unanimously.