City of Byron Community Services Committee Met Nov. 4.
Here is the minutes provided by the committee:
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Alderman Mittzi Fulrath, Alderman Emily Gerdes, Alderman Zeke Hobbie, Alderman Mike Gyorkos
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Engineer Jason Stoll (by phone), Mayor John Rickard, Director Aaron Vincer, Steve Jones.
Alderman Fulrath called the meeting to order at 5:35 pm.
1. PUBLIC COMMENT – None
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – OCTOBER 7, 2020 – Alderman Hobbie motioned to approve, as presented, the October 7, 2020, Community Services Committee meeting minutes. Seconded by Alderman Gerdes. Motion passed.
3. BANDSHELL – Alderman Fulrath said there was a document in the folder regarding a bandshell proposal compiled by Steve Jones. The idea of a bandshell has been discussed for years, and Steve first listed what he feels are the requirements when looking for a location. These include being able to accommodate a larger performance on a raised stage, providing protection from the elements, available electric service (60 amp service minimum), accessibility to performers while loading and unloading, sufficient parking, usability from 8am to 10pm, having an adequate area to seat several hundred people, ability to allow beer and wine sales, and proximity to support downtown and other Byron businesses. Besides musical performances, the bandshell could also host theater events, church services, meetings and conferences, outdoor movie viewing, exercise classes and weddings, to name a few. Steve is president of the Crossroads Blues Society, which runs blues programs in the schools. He proposed several locations to be considered and listed pros and cons to each: Park District and school property; the Byron Forest Preserve; Hamas Park; Sunshine Park; BJ Way Park; old Cheese Factory lot; Blackhawk Meadows Park; Tiger Town Park; River Road Park; Byron Boat Ramp area; near water tower between 2nd and 3rd St.; and the corner of 5th and Union Streets. Many of the locations listed are private property or belong to other government entities. Alderman Hobbie said that the Park District properties are used regularly by children, and asked what Steve anticipates the usage to be. Engineer Stoll asked if Steve has taken his proposal to the Byron Chamber. He said he has discussed several ideas with the Chamber, but they have not worked out. Alderman Fulrath feels the bandshell is a worthwhile project, but the city may not be able to handle the project financially. She also expressed concerns about vandalism to the bandshell. Steve agreed that the Park District and Forest Preserve would be the organizations that would have space available. Alderman Hobbie asked if he has proposed this idea to the Park District or other organizations, but he has not. Alderman Hobbie asked if he had any idea what a bandshell would cost, but Steve has not researched this yet. Alderman Fulrath said she would be willing to help with the project if her time allows, and Steve will take the idea to the Park District and Forest Preserve as his next step.
4. RFP ENERGY SAVINGS – Two companies have submitted proposals, and Director Vincer met with Engineer Stoll, Tom Glendenning, and Chris and Steve from TEST. They discussed the two proposals, and concluded that ENGIE was the one that they felt more comfortable with. A facility plan is something that has been discussed for years, and they have some money set aside to accomplish this. ENGIE is able to do the plan in part with others or on their own. If we decide to continue, Director Vincer would recommend ENGIE as our preferred provider. Engineer Stoll added that a facility plan allows the city to set the scope of future projects, and is required by the EPA. The study needs to be done by licensed engineers. ENGIE is not licensed to do this, so they would need to work in conjunction with an engineering firm. He feels the city should take more time to make a decision. Director Vincer stated that the advantage of making a decision now (or soon) is to take advantage of the low interest rates available at this time. He feels ENGIE should be involved in the design process, working with the city’s team from the beginning of the project. It allows us to use all resources available to us. Engineer Stoll added that Fehr Graham is able to do all of the planning and design work needed. ENGIE hires all contractors and offers a “not to exceed” number for projects, however, he has concerns that the EPA will not approve of this model. Alderman Isaacs said that when companies offer a “not to exceed” number, they bid high. His company is working with ENGIE on a project, and said that ENGIE charges a monthly fee to vendors to be able to work with them. Director Vincer feels the “not to exceed” number makes them more accountable. Discussion will continue next month.
5. 2021 STREETS PROGRAM – Engineer Stoll and Director Vincer discussed several projects: Union Street in front of the Post Office; Brighton Ridge slurry and fabric; Lincoln St. and River Dr., to finish up the Edge of Town subdivision work; and repairs to the Sumner Street base failure. Engineer Stoll added that he will also look at Peru St. in front of Hairy Cow. He expects to have estimates by next month.
6. MILL ROAD – Engineer Stoll stated that an agreement has been made with the contractor to repair the road in spring at his cost. He will write the agreement and present it next month.
7. PUBLIC WORKS UPDATE – Will be given at City Council meeting.
Alderman Fulrath adjourned the meeting at 6:29 pm. The next regular Community Services meeting is December 2, 2020.
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