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LWV-Wilmette Eyewitness/Observer Corps
Archives Oct-Dec 2020

Meetings observed through December 22, 2020 (all meetings remote unless indicated):
Village Board/Committees/Commissions:
Village Board Dec. 8 & 22;
Environmental & Energy Commission Dec. 17
Park Board/Committees:
Park Board Dec. 14;
Committees: CoW Dec. 9,
                        Lakefront Dec. 7,
                        Parks & Rec Dec. 14.
D203 BoE in person meeting: Dec. 14 (observed remotely)
D39 BoE in person meeting: CoW Dec. 7 and BoE Dec. 14 (both observed remotely--including the CoW, which was available for remote viewing for the first time).
Township Board:  Dec. 8
 
Highlights
  • COVID-19.  Our local government boards continued to address the effects of COVID-19 on the community, their programs and/or finances, including:
  • The Village Board approved grants to Wilmette restaurants  on Dec. 8 and Dec. 22 under the economic relief package it had previously approved.
  • The D203 and D39 BoEs heard from administrators and the public on their in-person and remote learning programs and the Covid-19 metrics informing their in-person programs, including:
    • The D203 BoE heard from its administration on D203’s current one-track hybrid in-person program (one track of A, B, C or D/day, 2 days every two weeks) and expanded E-track. The expanded E-track gives more opportunities for in-person learning for students struggling with remote learning, and parents can still fill out a form to request that support.  D203’s two-track hybrid (two tracks/day, 2 days every week) is still planned to start at the beginning of second semester on Jan. 26. The D203 BoE also discussed the COVID-19 surveillance testing program it had previously approved; participation in that program will be mandatory starting Jan. 3 for all students participating in on-campus instruction.
    • The D39 BoE voted at its Dec. 7 CoW to resume on Dec. 14 the in-person program (100% in-person preK-grade 4 and 50% in-person grades 5-8) for all students involved in that program after an adaptive pause with 100% remote learning following Thanksgiving Break (preK-grade 2 and students in special education comprehensive needs programs had resumed their in-person programs on Dec. 7).  The BoE also voted on Dec. 7 for a one-week adaptive pause to in-person, with 100% remote learning, following winter break for the week of January 4, when the district will roll-out a new, voluntary COVID-19 surveillance testing program similar to D203’s, which the BoE also approved on Dec. 7.  That surveillance testing  program started as a pilot on Dec. 14 and it is to be available for all in-person students and staff starting Jan. 4 (registration is now available for the program).
    • The Park Board heard from Park District staff on how they pivoted to comply with Tier 3 mitigation guidelines, including by cancelling several in-person indoor recreation programs, while continuing to operate others and conducting dozens of Zoom programs.  The Park Board also continued its monthly monitoring of the effect of COVID-19 on its FY2020 finances.
  • Village’s Neighborhood Storage Project (NSP). The Village Board, on Dec. 22, heard an update from staff on the NSP and voted to approve two Phase 2 construction contracts: for $10.4M with V3 Construction Group Ltd. and for $1.2M with Christopher B. Burke Engineering Ltd. Phase 2 construction is expected to start in January at and around Hibbard Park. For LWV-W coverage of earlier history in this project, see earlier Observer Corps updates and, for developments prior to Phase 1 construction start on April 6, 2020, our Stormwater Improvement Project page.
  • Village Board Review of Request for Proposal (“RFP”) as Village Seeks Consultant to Guide Village in Comprehensive Plan Rewrite.  After the Plan Commission had already reviewed the RFP, Village staff brought it to the Village Board for its review prior to posting.
  • Village Sustainability. The Environmental and Energy Commission discussed initiatives from the draft Sustainability Plan to focus on in the coming months and heard from staff on a community solar program that the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus is promoting.
  • Presentation to Village Board on Shoreline Regulation and Protection.  VIllage Staff and the US Army Corps of Engineers gave a presentation to the Village Board that discussed private ownership of beach adjacent to private property and of various ordinances and regulations governing construction activity on that private property.
  • Park Board’s Continued Consideration of Community Playfield (CPF). The Park Board and its Parks & Rec Committee continue to consider improvements to the Community Playfields, including potential permanent restrooms and a fitness path, although no final decisions have been made.  These improvements, if made, would be funded largely by the Village in connection with the Village’s Neighborhood Storage Project (NSP).  Because the Village is using Park District property in this project, the two entities entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement earlier in 2020; among other things, the agreement requires the Village to fund certain amenities at the parks if the Park District decides to install those amenities.  As part of the Village staff’s update of the NSP on Dec. 22 (see above), it was noted that the IGA is expected to be amended in January to clarify the Village’s contribution to the Park DIstrict under the IGA.
  • Park Board’s Gillson Master Planning and Shoreline Protection. The Park Board heard a presentation from its outside consultants, the Lakota Group and Woodhouse Tinucci, on  their preliminary findings and impressions with respect to the Gillson Park Comprehensive Plan that the Park District is undertaking. Next steps include getting feedback from the public--be on the lookout for community meetings and a Park District webpage dedicated to this project. The Park Board also heard that staff is working on a contract with SmithGroup on shoreline protection for Langdon Park, especially to reinforce the toe of the bluff and support the bluff itself.
  • Village, Park Board and Township Board’s adoption of 2020 Tax Levy. Each of the Village Board and the Park Board adopted its 2020 Tax Levy Ordinance, which in each case was in its meeting materials posted online.  The Township also voted to adopt its Tax Levy, which was not in its meeting materials posted online.
  • The Park Board’s Continuation of FY2021 Budget process.The Park Board had a CoW to review the Park District’s FY2021 budget on Dec. 9.  Next step: vote on budget & appropriations ordinance on Jan. 11 (it was in tab 5 of the budget document reviewed).
  • D203 Potential Winnetka Campus Renovations. The D203 BoE, in connection with the school district’s 15-Year Facility Plan, heard and discussed a presentation from the administration on potential Winnetka campus renovation options to address issues raised in an athletic and academic study, particularly concerning Gates Gym.  Continued review and discussion is planned for January on the topic, including at meetings with neighbors, key stakeholders, and the Village of Winnetka and at Finance Committee and BoE meetings and at a BoE workshop.
  • D203 BoE Equity Update.  The BoE discussed the Equity Update given by the administration in connection with the 2020-21 Annual Plan.
  • D39 Summer 2021 Construction and D39 5-Year Financial Projections.  The D39 BoE, at its CoW, heard updates on potential Summer 2021 KEEP39 construction at McKenzie and Romona, as well as options for a reduced but equitable offering of KEEP39 throughout the district if the BoE does not approve the construction. No documents were posted on these items.  After hearing the 5-year financial projections at the CoW, which showed that the BoE can financially support the KEEP39 construction and which were also presented at the BoE meeting, the BoE gave the administration the nod at that CoW to continue with the planning.  Final approval is expected to be voted on at a BoE meeting in February.  2nd floor AC at WJHS was also discussed.
  • Township Board’s Update from Community Services Director on Agency Requests for Fiscal Year 2021-22. The Township Board discussed the Community Services Director’s report on funding requests from local agencies for the Township’s 2021-22 fiscal year, which will begin on March 1. That report was not in the meeting materials posted online.  Per the grant funding process set out on the Township’s website: advisory committee recommendations are developed in December, presented to the Township Board in January and voted on by the Township Board in February.
 
See links below for more information on these and other matters from posted meeting materials (if posted) or elsewhere on government websites.
 
Village Board/Committees/Commissions
  • Extension of 8th Amended COVID-19 Declaration of Emergency on Dec. 8  and Dec. 22
  • Approval of Economic Relief Grants to Village Restaurants on Dec. 8 and Dec. 22
  • Adoption of 2020 Tax Levy Ordinance
  • Approval of Neighborhood Storage Plan Phase 2 Contracts Presentation  and Memo
  • Village Board review of Request for Proposal as Village seeks to hire consultants to help guide the Village in its Comprehensive Plan rewrite
  • EEC’s Sustainability Plan Draft and Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Community Solar Presentation
  • Lake Michigan Shoreline Regulation and Protection Presentation and Memos
 
Wilmette Park Board
  • Director’s Report from Dec. 14 Park Board meeting packet
  • Recreation and Facilities Report to Park Board highlighting changes due to Tier 3 COVID-19 Mitigation Guidelines
  • FY2020 Financial Report Thru October
  • Presentations on State of Gillson Park  and Preliminary Observations on Gillson Park  from Outside Consultants
  • Adoption of 2020 Tax Levy Ordinance
  • Review of FY2021 Budget (including, at tab 5, proposed budget & appropriations ordinance to be voted on at January 11 meeting)
  • Potential Walking Path Locations at Community Playfield
  • Dog Park Information and Potential Locations
  • Garden Plot Information
 
New Trier High School D203 BoE
  • Supt. Post-Meeting Posting on Testing and Metrics page as updated
  • Reopening & Operational Plan 2020-21 Update for Dec. 14 BoE
  • Equity Update from the Annual Plan 2020-21
  • Winnetka Campus East Side Athletic and Academic Study
  • Receipt of FY2019-20 Final Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports--GAS and GASB
  • Approval of Parameters Resolution for up to $4.2M in general obligation bonds
  • Profile of the Class of 2020 Presentation and Memo
 
Wilmette Public Schools D39 BoE
  • D39 Summary of Dec. 14 BoE
  • Dec. 11 Metrics Team Update and Metrics Page as updated.
  • Five-Year Financial Projections for the 5 Fiscal Years starting with 2021-22
  • LWVW to email to BoE re CoW video access and documents
 
New Trier Township Board
  • Social Services Administrator’s Report Summarizing Assistance Programs since Fiscal Year start on March 1, 2020
  • Funding Application Process from Township Website
​Meetings observed through December 2, 2020 (all meetings remote unless indicated):
Village Board/Committees/Commissions: VB Nov. 10 & 24; Municipal Services Committee Nov. 16 (from recording); Plan Commission Nov. 17 & Dec. 1.
Park Board/Committees: PB Nov. 9 &16; Committees: CoW Nov. 11, Financial Planning & Policy Nov. 16, Golf Operations Nov. 23.
D203 BoE in person meetings: Nov. 16 & 24, Dec. 1 (observed remotely)
D39 BoE: BoE Nov. 16 & 30 (both observed remotely, though Nov. 16 was in-person); CoW Nov. 9 (in person meeting observed via audio recording--only way to observe remotely).
Library Board: Nov. 17
Township Board:  Nov. 10
 
Highlights
  • COVID-19.  With COVID-19 cases high, all our local government boards continued to address the effects of COVID-19 on the community, their programs and/or finances.
    • The Village Board approved an additional $169K economic relief package to support Wilmette restaurants and continued to track the impact of COVID-19 on its finances.
    • The D203 and D39 BoEs heard from administrators and the public on their in-person and remote learning programs and the Covid-19 metrics informing their in-person programs. Neither D39 nor D203 has seen the high community spread numbers reflected in their schools among students or staff, but operational concerns remain.
      • The D39 in-person program had been 100% in-person preK-grade 4 and 50% in-person grades 5-8 up to Thanksgiving Break. Its BoE voiced support on Nov. 16 for the administration’s recommendation for a 1-week pause to in-person learning the week of Nov. 30 (following Thanksgiving) and voted on Nov. 30 to continue that pause the week of Dec. 7 for grades 3-8. In-person for preK-grade 2 students and for students in special education comprehensive needs programs is to resume the week of Dec. 7 for those enrolled in the in-person program (some students had opted for a 100% remote program for the semester).  The BoE opted not to vote until Dec. 7 on the administration’s recommendation for a continued pause to grade 3-8 in-person learning for the week of Dec. 14.  While the administration and BoE members emphasized on Nov. 30 the importance of in-person education and the safety of the schools because of various mitigation measures taken, they noted that the ability to predictably staff the schools has become a driving factor in the pause.  The D39 BoE also heard that its administration was looking into a COVID-19 surveillance testing program similar to D203’s and will hear a presentation on it on Dec. 7. 
      • The D203 BoE continued reviewing D203’s current one-track (“25%”) hybrid in-person program and discussed to what extent and when in-person learning could be expanded.  On Dec. 1, the BoE ultimately rejected, in a 5-2 vote, a motion to go to a two-track (“50%”) hybrid the week of Dec. 14 and then unanimously approved a motion to accept the administration’s recommendation for a two-track (“50%”) hybrid starting at the beginning of second semester on Jan. 26 and, in the meantime, continuing the current one-track (“25%”) model and expanding the current E-track to give more opportunities for in-person learning for students struggling with remote learning.  The E-track to date has given opportunities for more days in-person to students identified by school personnel as struggling with remote learning.  The expanded E-track will give parents the opportunity to identify their child as struggling and in need of additional support, though school personnel will still make the final determination of who is in the E-track. A form for parents to complete for this additional support was posted on the website after the meeting. Based on an analysis of attendance under the current one-track model and of the schools’ current capacities, it was determined that an  additional 1200 students across both campuses are expected to have more opportunities for in-person learning because of the E-track expansion.  The D203 BoE also heard updates on the COVID-19 surveillance testing program it had approved in October, and how that program is affecting how they look at their metrics; The BoE is considering making participation in the program mandatory for in-person learners.
    • The Library administration announced the closing of the library building to the public on Nov. 14 and the Library Board voiced its support of that decision on Nov. 17.  Parking lot pickups and remote lending/programs/services continue.
    • The Park Board heard about rising cases within Park buildings/programs; none were linked and none were traced to Park District activities. Subsequent to the Park Board meeting, the Park District announced adjustments to its programming due to state guidance accompanying the state’s  transition to Phase 4, tier 3. The Park Board has continued to track monthly the effect of COVID-19 on its finances, particularly given how user-fee driven its revenues are, though the latest report was before the latest adjustments to programming.
    • The Township Board received a report from the Township’s Social Services Administrator  noting an increase in requests for assistance.
  • Continuation of Village’s Neighborhood Storage Project (NSP). Village staff reported at the Municipal Services Committee meeting that the Village was going out to bid on Phase 2 construction contracts and hopes to award contracts at the Dec. 22 Village Board meeting. Construction is expected to start Jan./Feb. at and around Hibbard Park. The Park Board approved final plans for phase 2 of the project on Nov. 9.  For LWV-W coverage of earlier history in this project, see earlier Observer Corps updates and, for developments prior to Phase 1 construction start on April 6, 2020, our Stormwater Improvement Project page.
  • Village Plan Commission Review of Request for Proposal (“RFP”)as Village Seeks Consultant to Guide Village in Comprehensive Plan Rewrite.  The Plan Commission, which is expected to take the lead as the Village undertakes a rewrite of its Comprehensive Plan, finished its review of the scope of services in the RFP.  Next steps: Village Board expected to review the same at its Dec. 8 meeting and Village staff expected to post the RFP in December/January.
  • Village Municipal Services Committee Direction to Staff on a Shared-Use Path at Skokie Blvd./Lake Ave. As staff works with outside consultants on the preliminary environmental and design studies for a Skokie Blvd./Lake Ave. project, the committee by consensus gave staff direction to design for a multi-use path alternative that, though would result in greater impact to trees, would allow for both bicycle and pedestrian access.  Anticipated design approval is hoped for spring 2021, with preparation of contract plans in 2021-22 and construction in 2022-23.
  • Park Board’s Continued Consideration of Community Playfield (CPF) Improvements/Amenities in connection with Village’s NSP. The Park Board heard and discussed the Parks & Recreation Committee’s recommendation for a permeable path and running water restrooms at CPF, as well as low-level lights, and also several public comments on the various amenities; public opinions expressed on the amenities have been both for and against throughout the consideration process.  It is expected that any of these improvements would be funded by the Village under the Intergovernmental Agreement between the two entities in connection with the permanent easement that the Park District granted the Village in connection with the Village’s use of CPF in the NSP. The Park Board had some additional questions for staff, and may potentially vote in December.
  • Park Board’s Approval of Statement of Inclusion. The Park Board approved a statement of inclusion:
The Wilmette Park District stands against racism, hate, discrimination, prejudice and intolerance. We are committed to providing a safe, equitable and inclusive environment where all are welcome and treated with dignity and respect. We believe that providing this opportunity for all is core to our mission.
The LWV-Wilmette had previously delivered a communication to the Park Board urging such a statement. Park Board members noted that its statement was just a beginning and that they are undertaking a review of their policies, with a view to diversity and inclusion.  We understand that the Financial Planning & Policy Committee will lead this review.
  • Park Board’s Shoreline Protection and Gillson Master Planning. The Park Board heard a report from the Lakefront Committee and, by consensus, agreed that, moving forward, the Lakefront Committee’s shoreline protection focus should be on Langdon, with defensive measures only; the report noted that the cost could be $2 million.  The Lakefront Committee also reported to the Park Board on Gillson Master Planning, and the discussion that ensued resulted in consensus that the consultant will give a presentation to the full Park Board in December or January on the priorities that were identified at an October walk-the-park CoW.  We are awaiting posting of documents from the Lakefront Committee November 2 meeting on both of these matters.
  • Village and Park District FY2021 Budget and 2020 Tax Levy Proposals.  The Village Board and the Park Board, both overseeing government bodies with calendar-year fiscal years, continued with their FY2021 financial planning.  The Village Board adopted the Village’s FY2021 budget and its tentative 2020 tax levy (with its final 2020 tax levy set for a vote on Dec. 8, after a public hearing on the same).  The Park Board adopted its tentative 2020 tax levy (with its final tax levy set for a vote on Dec. 14, after a public hearing on the same) and had a committee of the whole (CoW) to consider its FY2021 capital plan as it continues development of its FY2021 budget (next steps: CoW on the whole budget Dec. 9 and vote on budget adoption on Jan. 11).
  • D39 and D203 BoE Tax Levy adoptions and Receipt of FY2019-20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports (CAFRs) . The D39 and D203 BoEs each adopted its district’s 2020 Tax Levy, each after a public hearing on the same and introduction of a tentative 2020 tax levy in October.  Both BoEs, which oversee school districts with July 1-June 30 fiscal years, also received FY2019-20 CAFRs (D39 in final form, which the BoE approved, and D203 in draft form, which the BoE will approve in final form in December).
  • The D203 BoE heard a presentation from the administration on the 15-year facility framework (2020-35), focusing on planning for Year 3 (2022) to address Winnetka campus athletic and academic study, particularly the inadequacy of Gates Gym.
  • Library Board Receipt of FY2019-20 CAFR.  The Library Board approved receipt of the Library District’s FY2019-20 CAFR.  The Library District has a July 1-June 30 fiscal year.
  • Township Board Receipt of Report on Agency Requests for Fiscal Year 2021-22. The Township’s Community Services Director reported in the Township Board’s meeting materials on funding requests from local agencies for the Township’s 2021-22 fiscal year, which begins March 1. Expected next steps, per the report and the grant funding process set out on the Township’s website:  funding hearings continued through November, advisory committee recommendations are developed in December and Township Board reviews advisory committee recommendations in January/February.
 
See links below for more information on these and other matters from posted meeting materials.
 
Village Board/Committees/Commissions
  • Extension of 8th Amended COVID-19 Declaration of Emergency on Nov. 10  and Nov. 24
  • Approval of $169K Economic Relief for Wilmette Restaurants  (option 1 approved).
  • FY2020 Financial Update Period 10 Presentation  and Memo
  • Adoption of Village’s FY2021 budget on Nov. 24 following introduction on Nov. 10. See Presentation slides and Budget in Brief from Nov. 24 additional agenda material.
  • Approval of introduction of proposed 2020 tax levy.
  • Village Staff Update on NSP Phase 2 Negotiations at Nov. 16 Municipal Services Committee
  • Plan Commission review of Scope of Services for Request for Proposal as Village seeks to hire consultants to help guide the Village in its Comprehensive Plan rewrite (one change made at meeting--expected to be presented to Village Board on Dec. 8).
  • Municipal Services direction on shared-use path at Skokie Blvd./Lake Ave  (alternative 1 selected).
 
Wilmette Park Board
  • Director’s Report  in Nov. 9 Park Board meeting packet
  • FY2020 Financial Report Thru September from Nov. 9 Park Board Packet and FY2020 Income/Revenue Thru October  and FY2020 Capital Spend Summary  from Nov. 16 Fin. Planning & Policy Committee Packet
  • Proposed 2020 Tax Levy from Nov. 9 Park Board Packet and Proposed 2020 Tax Levy by Fund from Nov. 16 Fin. Planning & Policy Committee Packet
  • FY2021 Capital Plan in Nov. 11 CoW  meeting packet (discussed and revised in meeting)
  • Approval of Plans for Village’s NSP Phase 2 at and around Hibbard Park
 
New Trier High School D203 BoE
  • Dec. 1 Update on Reopening Operational Plan Presentation and Memo on New Metrics
  • Dec. 2 Letter on Parent Request for Support for Students Struggling with Remote Learning
  • Nov. 16 Update on Reopening and Operational Plan Memo and Presentation
  • Draft FY2019-20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
  • Adoption of 2020 Tax Levy
  • Approval of Construction Management and Architectural Services Contracts for Summer 2021 Construction
  • 15 Year Facility Plan--Planning for Year 3 (2022)--Winnetka Campus East Side Update
 
Wilmette Public Schools D39 BoE
  • Nov. 30 D39 Metrics Update and Recommendation for Continued Pause in In-Person Learning while Prioritizing Neediest and Youngest Students (BoE voted on recommendation for week of Dec. 7 only)
  • Nov. 16 D39 Metrics Update and Recommendation for Pause in In-Person Learning the week of Nov. 30
  • In-Person Learning Program Review Update
  • FY2019-20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
  • Adoption of 2020 Tax Levy
  • Fall Assessment Report
  • 2020 Fall Enrollment and Long Term Enrollment Projections
 
Library Board
  • November 14 Announcement on Closing of Library Building to the Public and Continuation of Parking Lot Pick-ups and Various Remote Services
  • FY2019-20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
  • Director’s Report on Library Activities for November Library Board Meeting
 
New Trier Township Board
  • Social Services Administrator’s Report Summarizing Assistance Programs since Fiscal Year start on March 1, 2020
  • Community Services Administrator’s Report on Agency Requests for Fiscal Year 2021-22 and Funding Application Process from Township Website
Meetings observed through November 4, 2020
Village Board/Committees/Commissions: Oct. 13 & 27; CoW Budget Workshop Oct. 28; Plan Commission Oct. 6
Park Board/Committees: Oct. 15 & Oct. 26; Committees: CoWs Oct. 8 & 15, Parks & Recreation Oct. 7 and Nov. 4, Financial Planning & Policy Oct. 19, Golf Operations Oct. 26; Nov. 2 Lakefront (observed a recording because log-on info listed on agenda was incorrect)
D39 BoE in person meeting: BoE Oct. 9 & Oct. 26 (observed a recording of Oct. 9 and remotely of Oct. 26); we didn’t observe CoW because remote viewing was not available and no recording was posted.
D203 BoE in person meetings: Oct. 13 and 19 and Nov. 4 (all observed remotely)
Library Board/Committees: Oct. 20; Finance Committee Oct. 5
Township Board:  No board meeting in October
 
Board and Committee Meeting Highlights Oct. 1-Nov.4
  • COVID-19. The D39 and D203 BoEs continued to engage with their administrations and the public on student learning in the midst of the pandemic.  D203 paused its 25%-hybrid in-person program after 4 days of implementation in early October, but its BoE in a special meeting on November 4 instructed the administration to resume a hybrid program starting on November 10.  In October, the D203 BoE approved a voluntary testing program for students/staff involved in the hybrid program.  D203 also has a 100% remote option for those who selected it.  D39 has had both in-person (100% K-4, hybrid grades 5-8) and optional fully remote programs.  Other boards also discussed COVID-19 impacts on finances and/or programs.
  • Village Boards and Commissions. The Village Board adopted changes to the VIllage Code relating to Boards and Commissions.  Changes include rechartering and reinvigorating the previously dormant Housing and Human Relations Commissions. The Village is now actively seeking interested residents to serve on the Housing and Human Relations Commissions.
  • Shoreline Protection, Gillson Master Planning, Potential Community Playfield (CPF) Improvements/Amenities, Golf Course Cart Path.  The Park Board and committees discussed all these matters; the Park Board approved a construction contract for the Golf Course Cart Path and its Parks & Recreation Committee voted to recommend two amenities (running-water bathrooms and a fitness path) for CPF to the full Park Board for the Park Board to vote on. A committee-of-the whole meeting involved a walk-the-park with consultants to give input on Gillson master planning,
  • Village and Park Board FY2021 Budget and 2020 Tax Levy Proposals.  It is FY2021 budget and 2020 tax levy season for our two local government entities that have calendar year fiscal years, and there has been budget and tax levy development work at the committee or committee of the whole level for both entities.  Expect board consideration/approvals coming in November and December (and January for the Park Board’s budget ordinance adoption).
  • D39 and D203 Tax Levy proposals and Library District Tax Levy adoption. It is  also 2020 tax levy season for our three July 1-June 30 fiscal year  government entities.  Each BoE approved its tentative tax levy at its October meeting, with final votes coming in November after public hearings.  The Library Board adopted its tax levy ordinance at its October meeting.  Note: because of these entities’ July 1-June 30 fiscal years and the way our property taxes operate, their 2020 tax levy ordinances mostly affect their FY2021-22 budgets.
See more detail on these and other happenings below for each board we follow.
 
Village Board
  • The Village Board adopted an extension of its previously issued Eighth Amended COVID-19 Declaration of Emergency  at both of its October meetings.
  • The Village Board on Oct. 27 adopted an ordinance amending the Village Code concerning boards and commissions , which included changes to recharter and repurpose the previously dormant Housing and Human Relations Commissions. This vote followed a presentation of the Administration Committee’s recommendations concerning boards and commissions  to the Village Board on Oct. 13, which followed 4 meetings that the committee held between July and September on the topic. Some changes were made to the ordinance following the Oct. 13 meeting based on Trustee input as detailed in memoranda in the meeting packet  and additional agenda material  for the Oct. 27 meeting. The LVW-W submitted a letter to the Village Board supporting the adoption of the ordinance and commending the Administration Committee and Village Manager Mike Braiman for their work in developing the ordinance, including in engaging the public in the process.
  • The Village Board continued its FY2021 Budget process with a committee-of-the-whole budget workshop on Oct. 28, at which it heard from Village staff a FY2021 Proposed Operating Budget Presentation and discussed the  FY2021 Proposed Operating Budget.  Next steps: Introduction of the budget ordinance on November 10 and public hearing and vote on adoption of the budget ordinance on Nov. 24. The Village’s proposed budget includes information on the projected Village 2020 tax levy.  Next steps in the tax levy: introduction of the tax levy ordinance on Nov. 24 and public hearing and vote on the adoption of the tax levy ordinance on December 8. 
  • The Village Board continued moving forward with Phase 2 of the Neighborhood Storage Project at Hibbard Park by approving 1) a $1.6M contract for the the pre-purchase of pre-cast concrete units  to be used in the project on Oct. 13 and 2) the waiver of competitive bids to allow staff to negotiate a $12-13M construction contract with Berger Excavating Contractors on Oct. 27.  Final board approval of Phase 2 construction contracts (if successfully negotiated) may take place on Nov. 24 for a Jan./Feb. construction start date. The Park Board must also sign off on the final plans (see below on the Park Board’s consideration of the plans) under the Village and Park District’s Intergovernmental Agreement.  For LWV-W coverage of earlier history in this project, see earlier Observer Corps updates and, for developments prior to when construction on Phase 1 started on April 6, our Stormwater Improvement Project page.
  • Director of Community Development John Adler gave to the Plan Commission an overview of the upcoming Village Comprehensive Plan review process , which he said he expects the Plan Commission will be overseeing.  See the Village’s unofficial meeting summary.
  • Village staff gave an update to the Village Board on Oct. 27 on the Central Avenue and Downtown Streetscape Project.
 
Wilmette Park Board
  • The Park Board met as a committee of the whole to hear a presentation from outside consultant SmithGroup on shoreline protection options for both Langdon and Gillson. The Lakefront Committee subsequently received cost estimates on these options, which are expected to be in the November 9 Park Board meeting packet.  The options for Gillson will be rolled into the Gillson Master Planning process, and the Lakefront Committee is expecting to further discuss options for Langdon.
  • The Gillson master planning process continued with a committee of the whole involving a walk through the park with outside consultants, Lakota Group and Woodhouse Tinucci for the consultants to get initial input from Commissioners and, in the public comment period, the public. The consultant put together a compilation of comments received at that meeting for the Lakefront Committee and that compilation is expected to be in the November 9 Park Board meeting packet.  The consultants also indicated at that committee meeting that a meeting focused on gathering public input is expected to be held in January.
  • With respect to the Village’s use of Park District property in its Neighborhood Storage Project, 1) the Park Board heard a presentation from the Village on the Village’s plan for Phase 2 at Hibbard Park and 2) the Parks & Recreation Committee voted to recommend to the Park Board the installation of running-water bathrooms and a fitness path at Community Playfield (CPF) in connection with Phase 1 construction at CPF; that CPF construction took place this past summer.  Because the Village is using Park District property in this project, the two entities entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement earlier in 2020; among other things, the agreement requires Park District approval of the final plan for construction at each park and for the Village to fund certain amenities at the parks if the Park District decides to install those amenities. The Parks & Recreation Committee, the Park Board and Park District staff have held several meetings in the past several months at which it heard public input on potential amenities at CPF.  Next step:  at its Nov. 9 meeting, the Park Board is expected to vote on: 1) the final plan for Phase 2 at Hibbard and 2) whether to move forward on running-water bathrooms and a fitness path at CPF.
  • The Park Board voted 6-1 in a special meeting on October 27 to accept a $860K construction bid from A-Lamp Contractors for a continuous cart path project at Wilmette Golf Club; construction is expected to start November 2.  At that meeting the Park Board also voted to give staff direction to pursue a 12-year private placement operational debt structure to fund the project. See meeting materials for more information.
  • The Park Board received the district’s FY2019 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
  • The Financial Planning & Policy Committee heard from staff on the  FY2020 Income Statement Through September with Projections for Remainder of 2020.  This report has been updated monthly for the past several months with an attempt each month to project the year-end deficit, especially in light of COVID-19’s impact on the Park District.
  • FY2021 budget planning kicked off at the committee level with all committees reviewing the FY2020 proposed budgets for the departments they oversee.  Next step: a committee of the whole meeting on Nov. 11 to consider the FY2020 capital plan and TBA on the entire FY2020 budget, all leading to the expected Park Board vote in January on the adoption of the FY2020 budget ordinance.
  • Staff gave a presentation to the Financial Planning & Policy Committee on their 2020 Tax Levy Approach. Next steps are the introduction of the tax levy at the Nov. 9 Park Board meeting and a public hearing and vote on adoption of the final tax levy ordinance at the Dec. 14 Park Board meeting.
  • It was reported at the Financial Planning & Policy Committee that staff is working on a new diversity and inclusion statement and on a new inclusion policy, which we hope to see at the November committee and/or Park Board meeting.
 
New Trier High School D203 BoE
  • D203 went through various stages of remote and in-person learning during October and early November, and the BoE engaged with both the administration and public at its regular October meeting and 2 special meetings in October/early November.  During a pause in in-person learning, the BoE requested a special meeting on November 4 to revisit the then-current plan and ultimately voted to resume a hybrid learning program to start on November 9.   That came after the BoE had voted on a voluntary screening program at a special meeting on Oct. 13.   For more information, see the administration’s presentation on in-person learning and Supt. Sally’s memo on a return to in-person learning from the Nov. 4 meeting materials, along with a presentation on surveys from that meeting, and a presentation on the screening program from the Oct. 13 meeting.
  • The BoE approved the 2020-21 Annual Plan, which includes goals concerning civil discourse & critical thinking, staff diversity, restorative justice and departmental equity goals.
  • The BoE approved course proposals for implementation in 2021-22, including a major course revision for a social studies course to be called “Civil RIghts and Social Protest in Modern America.”
  • The BoE approved the tentative 2020 tax levy and public hearing date, after a presentation on the same. Next step: Public hearing and BoE vote on the final 2020 tax levy ordinance on Nov. 16.
  • The BoE approved the issuance of $4.2M in working cash fund bonds to finance summer 2021 construction.
 
Wilmette Public Schools D39 BoE
  • The BoE heard a presentation from Supt. Cremascoli on the Oct. 23 update on the Metrics Dashboard and her Oct. 23 Metrics Team Update, both on the D39 website. She said that the metrics were concerning, but that D39 was continuing with its in-person learning program(100% in person K-4, hybrid grades 5-8) for those who selected it.  She urged everyone to remain vigilant with prevention and mitigation strategies and said people should be on alert for a potential pause in in-person learning if metrics get worse.
  • Staff gave a presentation to the BoE on the Enhanced Remote Learning Program, which is the program for the 20% of students who opted for 100% remote learning. The presentation included results from surveys of parents, students and teachers on the program.
  • The BoE on Oct. 9 approved a Letter of Agreement (LoA) with the Wilmette Education Association.  The LoA was posted on the D39 website after the meeting.
  • The BoE approved D39’s 2020 Estimated Tax Levy and Public Hearing Date.  Next step: Public hearing and vote on the final 2020 tax levy ordinance on Nov. 16.
  • The BoE approved the 2020-21 Superintendent Goals.
  • The BoE heard from staff on its Ebook Platform and Wilmette Public Library Partnership.
 
Library Board
  • The Library Board adopted its 2020 Tax Levy ordinance after its Finance Committee voted earlier in the month to recommend its approval.
  • Director Auston gave a report on library activities, which included 1) summaries of activities in and outside the building and remotely and involving physical and electronic collections, including the partnership with D39, and 2) human resources matters.
  • The Library Board approved a $175K bid from Bibliotheca for a Radio Frequency Identifcation (RFID) automation system, which is a tool to track, inventory and facilitate the circulation of the library’s physical collections.
  • The Library Board approved contracts relating to items identified from a 2020 Capital Reserve Study: a $16K Shales-McNutt Construction contract amendment for pre-construction services for 2021 interior renovation work; a $21.5K Engberg Anderson Architects contract for initial architectural services to address priority items from the study; a $24-33K contract with LPS Pavement Co. related to the permeable paver parking lot; a $6.8K contract with Reliant Contract Glass to address various water leaks.
 
New Trier Township
Although there was no Township Board meeting, the LWV-W sent an email to the Township Board and Clerk this month concerning a citizen-initiated ballot advisory question that was voted on at the Sept. 29 annual town meeting.

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