Governance « WCFPD

Board of Commissioner Minutes
May 17th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
April 18, 2012

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Tom Hartley, Land and Development
Audrey Johnson Mike Durand, Golf
Lee Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Gloria Lind Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Cheryl Maggio
GUESTS
Lenae Weichel
Art Wittwer
Rebecca Olson
Rick Hoffman
Jane Snively

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:33 pm. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE Mary McNamara-Bernsten led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for March 21, 2012 were approved.

PRESENTATIONS
Jane Snively, Director of Klehm Arboretum & Botanical Garden, thanked the Commissioners for their continued support for the Community Trees Advocate Program and for the District’s participation. She also invited the Commissioners to Klehm Arboretum for an Open House on June 15 for the introduction of their new interpretive signage. Randy Olson thanked Jane for her work at Klehm and the relationship the District has with Klehm.

ACTION ITEMS
Community Trees Advocate Program – The Community Trees Advocate Program is a cooperative agreement among the District, the City of Rockford, Winnebago County, and the Rockford Park District. Its aim is to educate the public about tree health, management practices and selection to enhance the health, safety, beauty and enjoyment of our community. On June 21, 2011, the District Board agreed to approve the District’s involvement for the first year by giving the first $10,000 to the program. Judy Barnard made a motion to approve the second installment of $10,000 from the District to the Community Trees Advocate Program which was seconded Gloria Lind, Audrey Johnson and Cheryl Maggio. Motion passed unanimously. Mary McNamara-Bernsten would like to have it posted on the District’s website.

Bids – Seward Bluffs overlook – In December of 2009 the Atwood family donated $50,000 to the District. The family chose the Seward Bluffs overlook with the idea that the overlook be developed to appear similar to a 1930’s-era Civilian Conservation Corps project. The implementation of the overlook project was put on hold when the nearby bridge replacement project failed due to a 14-inch rain in July of 2010. Since the bridge replacement project is completed and the insurance has repaid the District, bids were opened on April 17, with five bidders competing. Tom Hartley distributed a bid tabulation to the Commissioners, and while the budget was $65,000, the low bid came in at $97,000. Tom Hartley asked the Board to reject the bids and he will redesign the overlook and make it more simple. Recreating the 30’s era was too expensive, and to complete this design, a lot of fill will need to be brought in to make it more handicapped accessible. The Commissioners think the plan is good, and wondered if bidding it in stages would be better than redesigning it. Judy Barnard inquired if the Highway Department would be willing to donate the fill, and possibly have other things donated. Randy would like to possibly reach out to the public and see if we can get some donations. Tom Kalousek will talk to the family, and Tom Hartley will reevaluate it. Mary McNamara-Bernsten moved to reject all bids, seconded by Cheryl Maggio. Motion passed unanimously.

Wetland Banking Agreement – Judy Barnard made a motion to approve acceptance and easement agreements between Winnebago County Forest Preserve District and Northern Illinois Wetland Bank for mitigation of 81 acres. The motion was seconded by Mary McNamara-Bernsten. Tom Hartley presented the Commissioners with three documents, the easement for phase I, the Agreement for Deed for the donation of all 81 acres, and the letter of credit. The easement is necessary for them to sell credits and the letter of credit is for access for the District should Northern Illinois Wetland Bank fail in their obligation to complete phase I. In addition, Northern Illinois Wetland Bank brought a check for maintenance. This check allows the District to establish a separate fund for maintenance of the project. NIWB will have a party monitoring the project making sure it is being done to specifications. When the bank is complete and donated to the District, the District’s plan is to hire a consultant to monitor it and give a report two times a year. Judy Barnard suggested finding a place, such as NLI, to check on the easement rather than hiring someone. Tom Hartley is anticipating it will be monitored for a five year period. Motion passed unanimously. NIWB then presented a check to Tom Hartley in the amount of $13,333. Judy Barnard then made a motion to establish a stewardship fund for the wetland mitigation project, seconded by Audrey Johnson. Motion passed unanimously.

Surplus equipment – auction – Gloria Lind made a motion to authorize District staff to offer the surplus equipment for auction at the Rockford Municipal Auction in May 2012, seconded by Mary McNamara-Bernsten. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Hononegah Youth Soccer Program – Vaughn Stamm gave the Commissioners a letter from Matt Warneke, president of the Hononegah Youth Soccer Association (HYSA). The District and the HYSA have had an agreement to use the Roland Olson soccer fields since approximately 1997. As part of the agreement, HYSA agrees to maintain the property in exchange for the use of it. Their current agreement goes through 2013, but they would like to sign a renewal from 2013-2016. Judy Barnard would like to lay this over to get a better understanding of it since the District is still in the strategic planning process. Tom Kalousek reminded the Commissioners that the District’s goals are education and recreation, and this falls right into that with providing a process for both. Judy asked for a map of all the soccer fields in Winnebago County. Tom Hartley will get a map to the Commissioners in the next few months.

Interview schedule for Executive Director applicants –The first round of interviews with applicants for the Executive Director position will be completed on Friday, April 20 with Randy Olson, Judy Barnard and Pam Clark Reidenbach. Once those are completed, a final list of applicants will be given to the Commissioners. Tom Kalousek distributed a list of dates that Pam is available to facilitate the interviews. Evelyn will contact the Commissioners for their availability, and if there are any evening dates that are preferable, Commissioners are to let Evelyn know those as well.

STAFF REPORTS
Development – Tom Hartley
Roland Olson – A master plan has been prepared for the Roland Olson area residents. There will be an open house held on June 5. It will be on site and a publication will go out. If people would like to donate money for trees, they will be accommodated. 10 trees have been planted. Next week there may be an article on the sale of the trees.
Two sheds for sale at Four Lakes – An advertisement went out in the newspaper and on the District’s website, and the public has been looking at those. The bids will be due April 26.
Easement – Next month Tom will be bringing information to the Commissioners about the construction easement at Pond and Main Street, located near Klehm. The District will be requesting funds to have sidewalk work done along Route 2.
Zoning issue in Roscoe – Tom got an email from an individual, the property east of Hononegah, requesting a zoning permit for raising llamas on his property. This is on the east side, not much bearing on the District property.
Nature Preserve dedication – The final step for the Nature Preserve dedication is for the Board President to sign the agreement. Randy Olson signed the agreement adding additional acres to the Nature Preserves at Sugar River Alder and Colored Sands. On May 8, the Nature Preserves Commission will formally adopt the agreement at their meeting. Judy Barnard would like to do a press conference, as a dedication is a wonderful honor.

Golf report – Mike Durand reported that the spring season for golf is going well. The weather has cooperated nicely. He distributed a spread sheet that compared the 2009-2012 seasons. Even though there is a lack of season pass play, and season pass sales are down, the daily fee revenue is up. This seems to be a continuing trend. It is a good strong spring.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS

Acting Director – Tom Kalousek will be attending the National Recreation and Park Association international conference and will be gone on previously scheduled business from April 19 through May 7. Mike Durand will be the Acting Director during that time.

Tom also mentioned Senate Bill 3182 which had a provision about filling vacancies. After some calls and some research, it was a technical error, and there is an amendment, so all references to Forest Preserve District and Commissioners that are elected at large have been removed from the bill. It now focuses on vacancies at the County Board level.

Bird Fest at Colored Sands May 12 and 13. Lee Johnson will be taking people on tours.

For those going to IAPD conference, Tom Kalousek has conference packets.

Macktown Gathering is April 28 and 29.

Earth Day Event – Rock Valley College – April 21.

Atwood Award – April 26.

Arbor Day – April 27. Vaughn Stamm handed out a District Events and News that lists all of the events that the District is involved in. The Community Trees at the schools is also that week.

IAPD Legislative Conference is on May 1 & 2

ADJOURN

Meeting adjourned at 6:50.
Next board meeting 5:30 Wednesday, May 16, District Headquarters

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
May 11th, 2012

Board Meeting Minutes
April 19th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
March 21, 2012

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Mike Durand, Golf
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Tom Hartley, Land and Development
Audrey Johnson Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Cheryl Maggio Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Lee Johnson Steve Chapman, Finance

ABSENT
Gloria Lind

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:34 pm. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Judy Barnard led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for February 15 were approved.

PRESENTATIONS
I-Pad demonstration – Byron Forest Preserve District – Executive Director Todd Tucker and office manager Janet Dahlberg gave a presentation regarding the use of iPads and how it has worked for the Byron District. Byron has been using iPads since January 2012 and they purchased 13 iPads for use by Board Members, the Director and department heads. Todd distributed a fact sheet to the Commissioners outlining the costs, why they chose to go green, how it works, features, and the negatives. Janet explained and gave a demonstration of the document storage, the usage policy for staff and commissioners, and how the iPad works at monthly meetings.

ACTION ITEMS
Change to IMRF – new employee status – Employees participating in the IMRF pay into the fund at the rate of 4.5% of their gross wages. The District is currently paying an additional 11.9% of each employee’s gross wages. IMRF has two options for exempting seasonal or part-time employees from participating in the plan. The first being for employees who work less than 600 hours per year, and the second is for employees who work less than 1000 hours per year. The District has been operating under the IMRF 600-hour plan. Adopting the 1000-hour plan would save the District the 11.9% for any employee who works less than 1000 hours. This would not affect any current employees as they are grandfathered and would abide by the 600-hour rule. Mary McNamara-Bernsten made a motion to adopt the annual 1000-hour standard for IMRF participation, seconded by Audrey Johnson. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Strategic Planning Committee Report – Judy Barnard gave an update of the different goals groups that have met since the strategic planning meeting in February.

Goals teams report – Pam Clark Reidenbach distributed reports from the goals meetings and gave a presentation on each goal. Pam identified each goal and then gave the strategies and activities for each.
The four goals were: (1) Stewardship – Demonstrate excellence and good stewardship in management of natural resources and physical assets; (2) Engage Community – Engage the public to increase awareness of the forest preserves and their value to the region; (3) Program – Expand opportunities for educational and recreational activities for all ages; (4) Financial Stability – Promote community-supported, value-driven, mission-centered revenue streams.

Pam then explained the next steps and gave her recommendations: developing a timeline, accountability, and determining the financial impact/resources on the staff. Pam also suggested that when the plan is complete, the District will need to build strategic planning into the monthly board agenda. This will keep the District on task and moving ahead. Randy Olson made a motion to accept the plan with the caveat to move forward to the next steps. Audrey seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Tom Kalousek would like to have Pam meet with the staff and come up with a priority list and a timeline of how to get some of the goals started. The staff will add details and in approximately 60 days have a complete plan. Once that has been accomplished, the Mission Statement will be revisited.

STAFF REPORTS

Financial Report – Steve Chapman – Steve distributed budget schedules for fiscal year ending October 31, 2011 for the Corporate Fund, Capital Improvement Fund, Botanical Garden Fund, Retirement Fund, and Liability Reserve Fund. With the audit finalized he wanted to compare what was estimated, and the summary sheet outlines where the District ended up, including the fund balance difference. Two areas he is concerned about are the Corporate Fund and the Liability Reserve Fund. Steve has met with the staff to see how they can make some changes in the coming year. Regarding the Liability Reserve Fund, the expenditures were higher than anticipated, due to some higher unemployment costs and higher PDRMA costs. In this fund, revenues are limited to property taxes, and expenses are pretty much fixed; therefore, the only variable is the cost of unemployment. He then went through budget schedules for November 2011 through February 2012.

Four Lakes conceptual development options – Tom Hartley presented the Four Lakes Forest Preserve Addition Conceptual Plan at the Commissioners request. Tom showed a power point presentation of the existing buildings and conditions at the recently purchased tract. He further explained the two different conceptual plans – estimating costs with the buildings, and estimating costs without the buildings.

The second plan completely removes the buildings. The ponds on the property are not adequate for fishing, and would need to be excavated (this cost is included in each plan). Development may be eligible for an Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant (OSLAD). Developing this site without the buildings but including fishing, parking, and a gravel path is estimated at $436,375.

The first plan modifies the buildings for public use, which would include improving building facade, restrooms, enlarge interior meeting area, and change above-ground electric to underground. There is also a pavilion that could be used for weddings, concerts, and other events. Tom believes this site could handle a seventy car lot and that the site could handle approximately 150 people. Renovating the building sufficient for public use and ADA requirements, and including the site development noted above, is estimated at $717,200.

Vaughn Stamm then put together an Operational Impact Statement with loose estimates as to the annual maintenance costs of $33,700 with a building and $11,600 without the building.

Randy Olson would like to see it usable for the upcoming season. Judy Barnard would like to see a bigger fishing pier that is accessible to multiple people. Tom and Vaughn will develop more conceptual plans to include more options to make it accessible, introduce paths, and develop a wetland in the front.

Golf report – Mike Durand presented the golf statistics for this season. He reported that Atwood opened on March 10, and the Ledges and Macktown opened a week later. This is the earliest golf season the District has had in the past 12 years. So far this season, golf is ahead of last year in terms of greens fees and cart rental. It is a good start to the season.

Marketing report – Jamie Johannsen gave a list of the upcoming spring events that the District is participating in. The District will be participating at the Community Earth Day event at Rock Valley College on April 21. There will be a display, brochures and the District will be giving a presentation on “Hidden Gems and Native Plants of the Winnebago County Forest Preserves”. On Thursday, April 26, the Seth B. Atwood Park and Conservation Service Award will be presented as part of the Rockford Park District City of Gardens Kick-Off Dinner to be held at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens. Commissioners will be getting their invitations in the mail. Klehm is celebrating Arbor Week Monday, April 23, through Friday, April 27 by planting trees at 25 different Rockford area schools throughout the week. Bird Fest will be held on Saturday May 12, and Sunday May 13, at Colored Sands. The new Guide to Birding will be distributed and “unveiled” on Saturday morning.

Jamie distributed the new “Path and Trail Map of Winnebago County” which was done in partnership with the Rockford Park District. It is a comprehensive guide to all paths in the county and will be available at District facilities, Rockford Park District facilities, and the Rockford Visitors and Convention Bureau.

CLOSED SESSION

The meeting was closed at 7:45 to discuss possible land acquisition. The meeting re-opened at 7:55. Randy Olson announced that no action was taken while in closed session.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS

Earth Day, April 21, 11:00 to 3:00, Rock Valley College.

Atwood Park and Conservation Service Award, City of Gardens Kick-Off Dinner, April 26, Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens.

Arbor Day, April 27.

IAPD legislative conference, May 1-2. If interested in attending, contact Tom Kalousek by April 2.

New Commissioner orientation is tentatively scheduled for 6:30 PM, April 10, District Headquarters.

ADJOURN
Meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM.
Next board meeting 5:30 PM Wednesday, April 18, District Headquarters.

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
April 13th, 2012

WCFPD Commissioner Election
March 26th, 2012

Board of Commissioner Minutes
March 22nd, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
February 15, 2012

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Tom Hartley, Land and Development
Cheryl Maggio – 4:20 Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Lee Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing

ABSENT GUESTS Mike Kearney Jim McFarlane
Gloria Lind Doug Dufford John Betker
Bob Nieman Edward Ruef Dave Taylor
Keri Butt Mike Eickman Paul Shelton
Chad Miller Lynda Johnson
Brendan Walsh Richard Chudoba Lisa Weckerly
Ron Schneider Tom Beissel Dave Wiehle
Adam Guarise Genese Wichle B. Walsh
Gloria Maloney Virginia Schmidt Bob Beebe
Mark Heckman Lenae Weichel

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 4:08 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Randy Olson led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for January 18, February 7 and February 8 were approved.

SELECTION OF NEW COMMISSIONER and SWEARING IN

A motion was made to accept Lee Johnson to fill the vacant Commissioner position left by Jay Ferraro. Motion passed unanimously. Attorney Mike Scheurich swore in Lee Johnson. Randy Olson welcomed Lee as the new Commissioner.

PRESENTATIONS

Wetland Banking – John Betker – Tom Hartley introduced John Betker from the Army Corps of Engineers. He explained wetland mitigation banking and gave a history of the Northern Illinois Wetland bank from 2000 to the present. He presented a slide show of a wetland bank in DeKalb County that is approximately 60 acres and explained how it was created, including the building and planting process. He then showed a map of the potential wetland bank for the Deer Run Forest Preserve and stated that this bank is just starting to sell credits. He gave the Commissioners an overview of the process and advised them that in conservation easements there are certain requirements built in, such as no sewer, power, or buildings, and it cannot be sold for commercial use. Tom Hartley relayed a few concerns that the District needs to consider, such as invasive species, and bringing in outside assistance in the event that occurs. John Betker closed his presentation thanking the Commissioners for their time and that he believes the District is a perfect match for wetland preservation.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Bob Nieman – He introduced himself and mentioned the article in the Rockford Register Star on Sunday February 12. He gave some statistics on the deer population decrease, not because of CWD, but because of other changes, such as windmills, etc. He thinks the Board made the right decision for the year. He would like the Board to look at what the state does and have a similar type of program.

Chad Miller – He believes there is very little evidence that CWD is more than just a couple percent. He doesn’t think this disease will wipe out a deer herd. DNR has excluded the one group that funds this research, which is licensed paying hunters. Hunters need to be allowed the opportunity to go into forest preserves and private property.

Keri Butt – She introduced herself as a writer for Illinois Outdoor News to help get women and kids in the outdoors and hunting. She thanked the Commissioners for putting a halt on sharpshooting. She is a diehard bow hunter, so she is well aware of the proper management that is needed in all aspects throughout Illinois. Hunters need to manage the deer herd. The DNR has a history of misleading the public for eradicating the deer herd. CWD is used as a crutch when in fact it is about population and herd control. This year hunters harvested 19,798 fewer deer than in the 2004 and 2005 seasons. For every doe they shoot they are also taking out fawns, and by the end of March, does are 5 months pregnant.

Brendan Walsh – He introduced himself and is from the United Sportsmen’s Youth Foundation. He hopes that someday the DNR can work together with various organizations so there aren’t just sharpshooter programs. There are so many volunteers he believes they can get together and help the DNR.

Ron Schneider – He appreciates the fact that the Board has stopped this hunt and that they are willing to listen. He would like the District to consider letting hunters work this county. There are organizations with sportsmen that would be willing to provide hours of service to provide assistance to help harvest and control the population. It is all about an equal and stable ecosystem. He hopes the Board considers this course of action and let hunters take care of the problems. The DNR believes the only way to stop the disease is to kill every dear. Their solution is worse than the disease.

ACTION ITEMS

IDNR – CWD report and request – Vaughn Stamm reported that the sharpshooting program is completed. Tom Beissel, Doug Dufford and Dr. Paul Shelton made a presentation to the Board. They were asked by District personnel to provide a concrete number of deer to be taken from the District. They focused on four specific properties and are recommending taking ten from Kilbuck Bluffs, five from County Line, five from Stone Bridge and ten from Deer Run. All have been previously used sites. They said that sharpshooting serves multiple purposes. Herd reduction is the only method to combat the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease. Rates of infection have remained so low that it is evidenced that the outbreak is inconsequential, however the reason disease rates are so low is because they have taken action. If the District waits until rates are high enough, CWD will be a bigger problem. Approximately ten percent of all CWD positive deer found in Illinois between 2002 and 2011 came from District properties. The IDNR is asking for continued support from the District. Randy Olson asked for a motion that IDNR be granted a permit for the removal of no more than 30 deer from selected preserves for the purpose of collecting samples of Chronic Wasting Disease. No motion was made.

Bids – fertilizers and chemicals – Judy Barnard made a motion to approve the purchase of fertilizers and chemicals for a total cost of $35,346.09. Motion passed unanimously.

Policy – political signage – Attorney Mike Scheurich provided a letter to the Commissioners with his recommendations and clarifications of signage on District property. He also included highlights from a court case regarding free speech. He further went on to explain that unless you have a reason to prevent signs (interfering with particular use of a particular space), you cannot have a blanket prohibition of political signs. You can regulate size and they should be reasonable. Mary McNamara-Bernsten made a motion to set the policy for political signs in the preserves. After some discussion Cheryl modified the motion to include the signs cannot be larger than 24×48 inches. Motion passed unanimously.

Agreement – LESO – Randy Olson proposed that the District enter into an agreement with the Department of Defense which would allow the District to obtain surplus equipment from the federal government for use in law enforcement activities. It will cost the District approximately $80 per year. Cheryl Maggio made a motion to approve the LESO agreement with the Department of Defense. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD DISCUSSION

Paperless technology – At the IACFPD meeting, Byron Forest Preserve District related that they went “green” at the board meetings by purchasing 13 iPads for their commissioners and department heads. Their goals were to go paperless, improve efficiency, and improve timeliness of information in making decisions. Randy Olson asked the staff to investigate the cost and requirements for various options, in the event the District wishes to pursue the idea. Tom Kalousek has spoken with Todd Tucker from the Byron Forest Preserve and he said it has worked well for their five commissioners. Tom has asked Todd Tucker to come to the March meeting to show how it is used and its benefits. This would be something to budget for next year, as opposed to right now.

Executive Director search process – Pam Clark Reidenbach developed a sample application for the Executive Director search. It will be available March 1 and will also be available online. All applications are due by 5:00 PM on Monday, April 2. The screening committee will consist of Pam as the facilitator, Randy Olson, Judy Barnard and Tom Kalousek. The committee will do a preliminary review of the applications and recommend the applicants that are qualified. The full board will perform interviews of the top candidates by April 13. The employee interview team will then interview the top candidates by April 20. The Partners group will then interview the candidates by May 4, and the final interviews will take place by May 11. The Board decision will be made at the May 16 board meeting.

Strategic planning – Judy Barnard encouraged everybody to attend the Strategic Planning meeting on Saturday, February 18. She emphasized that this will help determine the overriding mission and goals of the District. The meeting will be from 11:00 to 3:00.

STAFF REPORTS

Clubhouse food service concessionaire – Mike Durand advised that the District has used private concessionaires to provide food and beverage services at the golf courses for many decades. In January 2012 a Request for Proposal for these services were published, and three responses were received from interested vendors. Mike presented the proposals, and indicated that Crystal Catering (Macktown) and Vivian Management Group (Ledges) will stay at their locations as they have been there for several years. The P’s Restaurant will be providing concessions for Atwood. The P’s is a new vendor and comes highly recommended.

PGA initiative – Mike Durand presented some statistics from The PGA, USGA, and NGF regarding the declining number of golfers in the United States. The PGA, USGA and NGF are launching an initiative, GOLF 2.0, which is designed to promote and market the game of golf to children, “lapsed” or former golfers and aspiring golfers. Mike Durand and Steve Hare are participating in GOLF 2.0 as PGA Golf Professionals/Instructors. This initiative will provide programs designed to attract lapsed golfers and introduce new golfers to the sport and bring more people to the District golf courses. The programs will be offered at Ledges and Atwood golf courses.

Guide to Birding – Jamie Johannsen distributed a new Guide to Birding brochure. The brochure won Best of Show at the Illinois Association of Park Districts 2012 Agency Showcase in January. The Guide will be distributed at a public bird watching special event in June, as well as distributed throughout the County at all District facilities and through the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Wood duck nest summary – Vaughn Stamm distributed the 2011 Wood Duck Nest Box Summary. He gave an overview of the boxes and their uses and acknowledged the two resource technicians, Eric Bednar and John Peterson, who did the data collection and monitoring throughout the year.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS

Pheasants Forever Banquet, Thursday February 16, Giovanni’s

Letter from Craig Peterson regarding the Commissioner vacancy.

Letter from the Blackhawk Sierra Club regarding the resources of the District, requesting the Board to reconsider the purchase of the Gasparini property, and extending the Executive Director search until after the November 2012 election.

Press Release from the Forest Preserve District of Cook County announcing its first Science and Research Symposium to be held on April 19 at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Café Brauer.

Election timeline for the November 6, 2012 general election.

ADJOURN
Meeting adjourned at 6:16 PM.
Strategic Planning Committee, 11:00 Saturday, February 18, District Headquarters
Next board meeting 5:30 Wednesday, March 21, District Headquarters

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District Commissioner Election
March 19th, 2012

Board Meeting Agenda
March 16th, 2012

Board Strategic Planning Agenda
March 14th, 2012

Board Strategic Planning Agenda
March 8th, 2012

Board of Commissioner Meeting
March 7th, 2012

Executive Director Application Information
March 1st, 2012

Agenda Strategic Planning Committee Meeting
February 29th, 2012

Board of Commissioner Meeting
February 20th, 2012

Board of Commissioner Minutes
February 20th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
Strategic Planning Committee meeting
4:00 Wednesday, January 4, 2012
District Headquarters

PRESENT STAFF
Judy Barnard – Chair Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Audrey Johnson Judi Day, Budget
Mary McNamara Bernsten (4:10) Pam Clark Reidenbach, Planning
Mike Scheurich, Attorney

ABSENT GUESTS
Cheryl Maggio Sebastian T, WTVO
Stanley Campbell
Michael Eickman
Katie Townsend
Tim Gruner

Meeting was called to order by Chairman Judy Barnard at 4:05 PM. Minutes from the July 7 and 18 committee meetings were approved.

Update on strategic planning progress – Pam Clark Reidenbach gave an update on the progress of the focus groups, which were well attended and enthusiastic. Pam also had feedback via the questionnaires received from attendees at the County fair and comments via email. Judy suggested adding more groups, such as recreational groups representing disc golf, camping, etc. Pam distributed a preliminary strategic planning report: She said there was good feedback on core values. Preservation of land must be the key. Education is a strong part of preservation. In marketing, there is tremendous confusion between the District and the Rockford Park District and even the Police Department. People are willing to volunteer and become involved. Many said golf is not part of the District’s mission.

After data is collected, we should create a vision and broad goals of where we want to be and what’s preventing us from getting there. Judy hoped that the Board can define the goals before the search for Executive Director begins, so that types of qualifications can also be defined.

Replacement of Commissioner – Judy asked Mike Scheurich to clarify the process of replacing a Commissioner. Mike referenced the Statute that created our new board: “The board of commissioners shall, within 60 days after the date of the vacancy, upon the majority vote of the commissioners then serving, elect a person to serve for the remainder of the unexpired term.” He said that the process of getting to the point of voting is not defined in the Statute.

Mary McNamara Bernsten distributed materials from and described the process used to replace a board member at the Rockford Park District. Included were:

• the press release seeking commissioner candidates,
• a press release listing the names of the thirteen applicants,
• the candidate questionnaire, and
• the scoring matrix.

All thirteen applications were reviewed by all the board members as a whole. Director Tim Dimke and two board members devised the scoring matrix based on the candidate questionnaire. These three then chose the top three candidates, according to the scoring system, and the selection went to one of the top three. She said all the board members felt that they had a hand in the selection process. She particularly likes the idea of the Director participating in the process. Mary reiterated that both the District’s Code and the Statute specify that the commissioners elect the replacement.

Judy added that “We, the Commissioners, are entrusted to do what’s best for the District.”

Pam explained that she was asked to help in the search: develop a list of desirable traits, and wrap questions around the topics of conservation, education, recreation, marketing, etc.

Adjournment – Chairman Barnard adjourned the meeting at 4:41 PM.

Judi Day, recording secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
February 16th, 2012

Board of Commissioner Minutes
February 16th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
February 8, 2012

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard
Mary McNamara- Bernsten
Audrey Johnson
Gloria Lind
Cheryl Maggio

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 6:03 pm. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Cheryl Maggio led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS
The three candidates interviewed were Lee Johnson, Michael Eickman, and Brian Leggero, Randy Olson explained the process to each candidate. They would be asked the same questions that they submitted in writing and given the opportunity to expand on their answers. The Commissioners would then be given the opportunity to ask additional questions.

Lee Johnson
Lee introduced himself to the Board. He is a lifelong resident of Winnebago County and a nature enthusiast. He is interested in the Commissioner position because he has plenty of time since he is retired, loves nature and has spent a big part of his life in these preserves. He has been the business manager at the Natural Land Institute as well as a member of a number of organizations and on various boards. He has had a lot of community experience. Lee also worked for Illinois Bell for 22 years. He was a sales manager and went through the Illinois Bells training program for management. He feels his best management technique is listening first, look at all viewpoints, and then summarize and make a recommendation as to how to proceed. He also worked at Burpee Museum, and while there, he dealt with mostly volunteer staff and was very successful at motivating them to do the job with very little or no pay. He has helped NLI preserve several pieces of property. Because of his outdoors experience, he is able to recognize the value of property from a natural history standpoint. Lee feels one of the major problems with education is the issue of busing. Education is very important and partnerships with other organizations would be helpful for education funding. He was one of the first members of the Bird Club and was the president for many years. He was also on the Board of Directors for Girl Scouts, Sinnissippi Audubon Society, and Rockford Natural History Association. He is impressed by the District’s employees’ commitment, their hard work, and their sincerity. He thinks there is a need for an inventory of what is in the preserves because the District needs to know where their treasures are. Many of the plants and animals that are here do not exist anywhere else and they need to be preserved. He would like to see more outdoor education and additional resources, in addition to more public education to put the District in a better position to receive additional resources. He also brings a lot of teaching and public speaking to groups, and would like to see the District implement a speaker’s bureau. He is dedicated and committed to preservation of the natural world and people being able to enjoy it.

Michael Eickman
Mike introduced himself, thanked the Commissioners for the opportunity to interview, and gave a background of his family-owned business. He is a member of Wild Ones, North Central Illinois Ornithological Society, Illinois Bird Banding Association, President of Sand Bluff Bird Observatory, and on the board of Sinnissippi Audubon. He has been a volunteer at Sand Bluff for 22 years. He wants to work for the people of the County. He was in the first class for the Master Naturals Program through the U of I extension and one of the projects he worked on was at Colored Sands. He has done a program at Severson Dells on bird banding, and he enjoys the benefits available through the District. When asked what he would do to re-open the Pec Ed Center, he recommended having bird walks, utilize other educators for trees and plants education, and do bird banding there. It is a missed educational center, and when the raptors were out there it was a big draw. Education for youth would be immense if that were to re-open. He has served on professional boards for the Illinois Association of Meat Processors, and the American Association of Meat Processors. He feels the District needs to focus on education, communication and public relations, utilizing volunteers, and getting more families into the preserves.

Brian Leggero
Brian introduced himself and gave a background of his recreational experiences in the preserves. He is a volunteer educator, teaching safety classes in boating, snowmobiling, and hunting, and has also taught wildlife management and ethics. Brian came back to Winnebago County from California partly because he missed the foliage and is committed to protecting the environment and promoting forest preserves. He has served on various boards such as the SM&SF Club, Rockford Lithuanian, Guisseppe Club, and Festa Italiana. He feels he could help turn the budget around by cutting any extraneous spending and coming up with more fundraising opportunities. He thinks the District needs to promote the preserves better to get more people in them. He would be honored to be chosen as Commissioner.

BOARD DISCUSSION

Candidate discussion – The Commissioners discussed each candidate from each night. After the discussion was completed, Tom Kalousek took a preliminary poll, and Lee Johnson was the unanimous choice for the Commissioner position. Formal decision will be made on February 15.

4:00 PM meeting on February 15 – Tom Kalousek passed out a draft agenda for the February 15 board meeting. He announced that the board meeting will start at 4:00 PM with a presentation on wetland banking

Clarification of Executive Director search – Tom handed out an Executive Director search proposal from Pam Clark Reidenbach. Tom suggested that two Commissioners meet with Pam to clarify the next steps and the process for the Executive Director search. Judy and Randy will be contacting her to get a time to meet with her for clarification.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Meeting adjourned at 8:08.
Next board meeting 4:00 Tuesday, February 15, District Headquarters.

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board of Commissioner Minutes
February 16th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
February 7, 2012

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard
Mary McNamara- Bernsten
Audrey Johnson
Cheryl Maggio

ABSENT
Gloria Lind

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 6:04 pm. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mary McNamara-Bernsten led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS
The three candidates interviewed were Lenae Weichel, Donald Shriver, and Steven French. Randy Olson explained the process to each candidate. They would be asked the same questions that they submitted in writing and given the opportunity to expand on their answers. The Commissioners would then be given the opportunity to ask additional questions.

Lenae Weichel
Lenae introduced herself and thanked the Commissioners for the opportunity to interview. She has been a Winnebago County resident for twelve years and has been an avid user of the preserves. Community service is a very important part of her life, as well as volunteering for many different organizations and committees. She has served as a Volunteer Coordinator, has served on the board at Severson Dells, and been the president of a neighborhood association. Her strengths are collaboration, organization and keeping people informed. She is reliable, punctual and has experience working with foundations and fundraising. She has some experience with grant writing and has trained volunteers at various organizations. Since she is currently on the board at Severson Dells she is willing to resign if that is what the Board decides she needs to do. She is also involved with Wild Ones and is currently working with a group of master naturalists at Tinker Swiss Cottage to put in a one-acre prairie. She believes it is important to keep the mission statement in mind, regardless of the changes that are happening, and to keep moving forward on the District’s goals and objectives. Lastly, Lenae indicated she would bring to this board collaboration and a real interest in working together to move forward.

Donald Shriver
Donald introduced himself and gave his background and qualifications. He believes being a Commiss-ioner plays an important role in the community. He is an avid user of the preserves. Most of his time has been spent in the legal arena, but he has served on the YMCA board, been a Rockford Kennel Club volunteer, and has been volunteering with Air One for the past several years. He believes every leader needs to be able to listen to what is being presented, be able to understand it, and then build not only a consensus of the staff and the Commissioners, but hopefully a consensus of the interested citizens. He has had a lot of experience with several different organizations, and has worked with various 501c3 organizations. He believes that in the next three years the Board needs to concentrate on improving public communication and information, improving the budget, obtaining more land including adjacent land to the current properties, connecting the preserves, improving the image of the new Commissioners so people understand their responsibilities, educating the public, and finally, working with the schools, private and public, to get nature programs better incorporated into education.

Steven French
Steve introduced himself and gave his background in park management. He is running for Commissioner because he feels that the District needs direction and purpose, and a lot of the public is not happy with some of the things that have happened recently. He feels he could address some of those issues. His volunteer and community service has included coaching soccer and basketball. He has worked with the Jaycees in various positions and been on the board of AYSO and other sporting organizations for a number of years. He worked for ten years with the County Highway Department and learned a lot about wildlife and how to work around and with it. He feels that kids are the future, and if they don’t learn to appreciate it and take care of it, then it will be gone. As a coach, he feels he has learned how to work with individuals and has learned to find the strengths and weaknesses of each person which gives you a chance to work as a team. Steve feels that the District needs to do a better job of balancing wildlife habitat with recreation, needs to do a better job informing the public, and needs to incorporate education by getting the schools more involved with the preserves, Severson Dells and the Pecatonica Education Center.

BOARD DISCUSSION
The Undertaker – The Undertaker has expressed an interest in having an Easter egg hunt in the District, as well as a motorcycle rally. The Board decided that the Undertaker could do a motorcycle rally but not an Easter egg hunt at this time.
Roland Olson neighborhood meeting – Tom Kalousek gave an update on the Roland Olson neighborhood meeting. It is scheduled for February 21, at 6:30 PM at District Headquarters. He clarified that no more trees were being removed, only stump removal is occurring at this time.
Employee focus group – Judy Barnard attended a session on strategic planning at the IPRA conference in Chicago. She learned at that session that it is important for employees to be involved in the strategic planning process. She would like to have the employees have their own focus group. Tom Kalousek will work on getting a date and time set for the employee focus group. Tom also thinks golfers should be a separate focus group as well.
Land acquisition – Judy Barnard also inquired as to whether or not the bid had been accepted for the Stone Bridge Forest Preserve acquisition. The offer put in for the property adjacent to the Stone Bridge Forest Preserve has not yet been accepted.
Storm water – Judy Barnard also mentioned that the Kishwaukee River Partnership is working on developing some storm water management along the I39 Baxter Road corridor. She suggests someone from staff or board should sit in on that. The date of that meeting is unknown. Tom Kalousek will look into the date and time of that meeting.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Meeting adjourned at 8:12 PM.
Next board meeting 4:00 PM Tuesday, February 15, at District Headquarters.

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board of Commissioner Minutes
February 16th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
January 18, 2012

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Tom Hartley, Land and Development
Gloria Lind Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Cheryl Maggio Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Steve Chapman, Finance
Judi Day, Budget and Personnel
Mike Groves, Natural Resources

GUESTS – see attached list of guests.

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:34 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Audrey Johnson led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for January 11 were approved.

PRESENTATIONS

2012 Natural Resource Restoration Plan – Executive Director Tom Kalousek and Tom Hartley – Tom Kalousek distributed the 2012 Resource Management Restoration Manual to the Commissioners and introduced Mike Groves, Natural Resource Manager. He reminded them that the goal is to restore land to its pre-settlement natural vegetation state and then highlighted a few accomplishments of the 2011 year.

Pine Tree Removal – Tom Hartley and John Nelson, Nature Preserves Commission – Tom Hartley reiterated that most of the pines taken were red and scotch pine. He then showed a few pictures of Sugar River Alder before and after the removal of the trees in 2009. John Nelson then spoke to the Board and gave a brief overview of his education and experience. He indicated that it is not unusual for preserves and conservation districts do this kind of tree removal on a regular basis. The pine plantations were not native, and a lot of them were unhealthy, stagnant, and over mature. Cutting down trees is shocking, and can be upsetting, but if you give it time, let it heal, it will grow according to plan. He said the staff has been great with their restoration efforts.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Randy Olson advised the guests that if they have direct complaints, they should be directed to him. The Board and the staff admit they had some communication breakdowns in this process. Randy apologized for the errors, and promised to do a better job in the future.

Mike Kearney spoke to the Board regarding the selection of the new commissioner. He has been to several board meetings and was pleased on January 11 to see that the Board had come to a consensus for the process of selecting the new commissioner. He hopes that the future board members will have more discussion and give more thought to issues. In looking back at the notes, he sees there are several 3-4 votes and that is unsettling to him. He also indicated in listening to Pam Clark Reidenbach’s presentation for a strategic plan, most groups wanted some advisory committees. His suggestions would be a land acquisition committee, and a land resource management committee (including people like John Nelson, users, equestrians, and hunters).

Katie Townsend – She too is encouraged by the Board of late. She is a strong user of the preserves. The Board has an awesome mission, encompassing natural land access for outdoor commission. Human resources must be tapped and used effectively. She believes all seven commissioners need to be actively involved. The public deserves input and expertise of these commissioners. She appreciates what went on at the January 11 meeting, but would like to continue to have qualified leadership to have the abilities to fulfill the mission. There have been good developments for the replacement, and that approach needs to continue at every level. Please allow the same format of group consensus to continue – from drafting of the job description, interview questions, to writing and selection – for Tom Kalousek’s position.

Paul Arena – He addressed the Board regarding their conduct for the tree removal at Roland Olson. Roland Olson was an area many enjoyed and the impact has been significant on a lot of people who used that preserve. The law outlines the procedures for the bidding process, and he feels the Board failed to follow that process. The excuse that there was no other willing bidder does not relieve the Board of the process and he feels the Board failed to follow procedure. He wants the Board to halt removal and tell people a mistake was made.

Mary Weeks Baxter – She also addressed the board regarding the tree removal at Roland Olson. She understands that restoration and plan is important, but residents needed notice of what was happening. The forest was destroyed over the Christmas holiday and the timing made it difficult to contact anybody. Cutting trees is not a housekeeping matter when 4,237 trees are cut down. The District’s website says the goal is to protect natural beauty, and she feels the Board forgot about the human element involved. Many are heartbroken and she urges the Board to remember the heartbreak as decisions are made in the future.

Tom Castrey addressed the board regarding the tree removal. He is an avid user of the forest preserves. He reminded the Commissioners that this is a forest preserve, not a prairie preserve. He wants to enjoy the woods, not a prairie. He understands the natural resource program is to restore these lands to their natural habitat but some of those trees were 30 years old, not 35 and he feels the District could have waited. He was very distressed that the public finds out after it has happened, after a contract is signed, and there was nothing they could do to stop the process. Next time please consider public meetings at the locations that are being considered for tree removal. We enjoy our trees, and they will die, but the Board should take the mission statement to heart and promote and protect the trees they have.

Travis Castrey is also a frequent user of the preserves and appreciates the Board always trying to acquire new lands. He feels the pines are native to Illinois and that there was no advance notice. He was overwhelmed and saddened at the removal and didn’t understand why all native trees in Roland Olson were removed. He implores the Board to think of future generations. Windswept prairie won’t be as popular as forest. We need to look and see where it was yesterday, where it is going tomorrow, and what is in the best interest of our people and our environment.

Gloria Maloney – Most of what she wanted to say has already been said and she would like to say please stop cutting down the forest, please leave them alone. She will never see the forest restored the way they were before, nor will her children. Hopefully her grandchildren and great grandchildren can see the beauty. She and her husband have been hiking and kayaking with their families, and they are memories. The floor of pine needles is part of the attraction because you can walk through and it is peaceful and wonderful.

Virginia Schmidt and Tim Gruner will be given the opportunity to speak at the next meeting.

A guest in the audience then asked if they could get a response to what was said. Randy Olson said if the Board or staff feel like a public hearing or forum is needed, the District will look at doing it in the future. A few more guests in the audience asked for apologies, and indicated the District had taken away all of their memories. Randy Olson reiterated his apology for lack of communication. He also then stated that they are done cutting trees and are removing the fallen trees at this point. The restoration plan is getting started now.

CLOSED SESSION
The meeting closed at 6:20 PM to discuss the union contract and the status of possible land acquisition properties. The meeting returned to open session at 7:25. Randy Olson announced no action was taken while in closed session.

ACTION ITEMS
Union Contract – Judy Barnard made a motion to approve the 3-year contract with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150. Motion passed unanimously.

2012 Board schedule – Judy made a motion to approve the meeting dates of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District Board meetings for 2012, to be held at 5:30 PM at District Headquarters on the third Wednesday of every month. This resolution does not change the one adopted on December 6; it merely lists each specific meeting date. Motion passed unanimously.

Request for easement – Tom Hartley presented a proposal to the Board from IDOT. They are planning to improve Illinois Route 2 at the South Main and Harrison intersection with a bike trail. The District owns the northeast corner of the intersection and IDOT would like to purchase a temporary easement to last three years to construct an entrance and grade backslope. When this property was purchased it was originally meant to be given to the Rockford Park District, and the property has no significant conservation value to the District. Judy made a motion to approve a temporary easement of 0.148 acres on the northeast corner of South Main and Harrison Street to the Illinois Department of Transportation for $4,000 and would like to request that the money be deposited into the new Land Acquisition Fund. Motion passed unanimously.

Budget amendment – The District has received a grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Fund for $235,000. This money was deposited in the Land Acquisition Fund 3301. Since there were no expenses budgeted for land acquisition in the 2012 budget in this fund, this budget amendment will provide appropriations for land acquisition. Audrey Johnson made a motion to approve the ordinance amending the 2012 budget to include monies for land acquisition. Motion passed unanimously. Also noted, that the grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Fund will be used to acquire the property on the Deer Run addition.

Budget amendment – new bond fund – Steve Chapman advised the Commissioners that the District closed on the sale of bonds on December 13 and a wire has been received for $250,000 which will be put into a separate land acquisition fund. Audrey made a motion that Fund 3306 is hereby created for the purpose of purchasing land, and that Fund 3206 is hereby created for the purpose of reducing the bond debt. Motion passed unanimously.

Policy on legal opinions – Over the last several months, various Commissioners have asked the District’s Attorney for legal opinions or interpretations on various aspects of the Forest Preserve Statutes, Code, and other related items. Gloria Lind made a motion to authorize the District’s Attorney or Executive Director to distribute all requested legal opinions to all Commissioners, the Executive Director, and the Board Assistant Secretary. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner vacancy selection process – Pam Clark Reidenbach drafted some questions that will be asked of each candidate and distributed a scoring matrix to the Commissioners. Candidates will be asked to submit a resume in addition to the questionnaire. The deadline for applications is February 1. Audrey moved to approve the application/questionnaire and scoring matrix to be used in the selection process for replacement of a Commissioner. Motion passed unanimously.

Expansion of Pam Clark Reidenbach Contract – Judy made a motion to contract with the Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence, under the direction of Pam Clark Reidenbach, for facilitation of the District’s search process for a new Executive Director to replace Tom Kalousek, such process to include the Director Search Service. Motion passed unanimously. It was further discussed that Tom Kalousek’s vacancy would be posted on the District’s website, IAPD’s website for $150/month, and the County’s website. Pam will assist the District in putting together a job description and a profile of ideal candidates.

BOARD DISCUSSION

Report of Atlanta conference – Audrey Johnson gave a report on her attendance at the Atlanta conference. She shared what she learned about foundations, managing natural areas, equestrians, security in preserves, recession tips and strategies, paddling, effectively using volunteers, and commissioner boot camp.

Campaign signs on District properties – Randy mentioned that he would like to see the Forest Preserves allow campaign signs. In the past, Tom Kalousek had been approached about candidates putting campaign signs in forest preserves, and he indicated that there was a previous ordinance not allowing them on property entrances. Attorney Scheurich advised the Commissioners that public land is open as part of the first amendment, and voting signs are acceptable. He then outlined the restrictions, and indicated that the size can be regulated. Vaughn Stamm said that in the past the operation staff has been instructed to remove them if they impeded vision. Judy would like to lay this over to the next meeting and ask other forest preserves their policies. Tom Kalousek requested that Attorney Scheurich put together some guidelines for the next meeting. He then indicated that the Rockford Park District’s policy says the candidates can place signs in parks. Tom then said during the last election, the District followed what the County was doing and told people they cannot put signs in the preserves. The Commissioners agreed to wait for Attorney Scheurich’s suggested policy.

Easter egg hunt – Randy told the Board that he has received a request from “the Undertaker” that he would like to do an Easter egg hunt in the forest preserves, and he would also like to do a motorcycle rally ride. Tom Kalousek will have Vaughn Stamm meet with him to see what he will need. Mary McNamara Bernsten thinks highlighting a certain forest preserve is a good idea, so people recognize and remember certain events happening at certain preserves.

Facebook – Mary would like to see daily updates or status postings on Facebook so that people are seeing what the District is doing and what is going on. Judy would like to see more photos of the different preserves every day.

STAFF REPORTS

2012 deer management report – Vaughn Stamm gave a report to the Commissioners as to this year’s efforts of the sharpshooting and how it is consistent with the District’s past practices. He has had several meetings with the IDNR biologists who have strongly encouraged the District to keep up with its deer management program. IDNR says if it isn’t continued, the CWD numbers will spike back up very quickly. The biggest cost continues to be processing of the venison. IDNR supplements the processing on occasion and they agreed to the District dropping off two or three at their facility. Audrey would like to stop sharpshooting until next year. She made a motion proposing a no-cull season, seconded by Gloria Lind. After much discussion about the IDNR partnering with the District and their expertise in this region regarding wildlife management, CWD, their studies, data, and the cooperation between the District and IDNR, Randy asked Audrey to amend her motion. Audrey withdrew her motion to stop the culling. Judy made a motion for the District to continue to reduce the herd along the Kishwaukee corridor but to suspend the permit allowing the IDNR to do any further deer reduction in any of the requested preserves until additional information is secured. The Board is requesting the names of the preserves and the number of deer removed in the last 5 years, and how many of those removed had CWD. Motion passed 5 to 1 (Audrey voted No).

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS

Opens Meetings Act training – Commissioners were provided a memo stating their requirement to complete the training online.

IPRA Annual Conference – January 26-29 in Chicago. There is a luncheon on Friday 11:45, and at 3:00, the Illinois Association of Conservation Forest Preserve Districts annual meeting, will be at the Open Land Headquarters. The joint Forest Preserve District and Park District dinner is confirmed at 7:00.

Next strategic planning dates – The Commissioners would like to do a Saturday from 9 to noon or 9 to 1, to go over all the information, if possible. Judy will get the dates from everyone. Mary requested Saturday afternoons, if possible.

Pheasants Forever banquet – Thursday, February 16 at Giovanni’s – if attending contact Vaughn.

ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 8:55 PM.
Next board meeting 5:30 PM Wednesday, February 15, at District Headquarters

Board Meeting Agenda
February 14th, 2012

Roland Olson Neighborhood Meeting
February 9th, 2012

Board Meeting Agenda
February 3rd, 2012

Board of Commissioner Meeting
February 2nd, 2012

Board of Commissioner Application
January 19th, 2012

Board of Commissioners Minutes
January 19th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
January 11, 2012

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Mary McNamara Bernsten Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Gloria Lind Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Cheryl Maggio Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Pam Clark Reidenbach, Planning

GUESTS:
Craig Peterson
Mike Kearney
Kevin Haas
Lenae Weichel
Jean VanBuren

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:30 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE Mary McNamara Bernsten led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for January 4, 2012 were approved.

STRATEGIC PLANNING
Focus group process – Pam Clark Reidenbach presented a PowerPoint presentation to the Commissioners that reviewed the focus group process, the groups represented, and the dates of the focus groups.

Results of focus groups – Pam distributed a summary of each focus group and then gave an overview of those summaries.

Environmental Education Providers – Strengths were as follows: collaborative programs, total acreage and quality of preserves, cooperation with NLI, and acquisition of river frontage. The obstacles they felt were: staff for education, loss of Belvidere and Pecatonica, ability to do capital improvements, confusion with the Rockford Park District (this was a consistent comment throughout most of the focus groups), people don’t understand value of the District, and how the District engages an urban audience, and finally the ability to fundraise. The opportunities they saw that the District has are: to expand marketing, fundraise and look at sponsorships, create strong leadership in the new Executive Director and the Board of Commissioners, acquisition of appropriate acreage, developing a volunteer base, creating a foundation, and expanding programming so that the District can become more of a program provider.

Business Professionals – Most of the people that attended this group were marketing professionals. Therefore, a lot of the discussion talked about branding, marketing, etc. The strengths were: District provides an enhanced quality of life, attracts visitors, preservation is a critical part of the mission, providing education, partnerships with Klehm and Severson Dells recognized, there is an independent board that are focused specifically on the Forest Preserve District, and finally, they liked that there was public input. The issues they felt needed to be addressed were: need to improve on marketing, branding, and awareness, would like to see one central communication outlet, and expanded programming. The opportunities this group felt the District could improve were: increased utilization of the facilities, hands-on education as opposed to classroom based, social media and blogging, target marketing with special interest groups and develop partnerships. This group also talked about collaboration with business professionals and identifying goals and approach by talking to this group again to see how they can help. The District’s office is beautiful and it could offer office space for meetings, more opportunities to use the District’s scenic space in the preserves, and finally, a list of recommended connections was given by this group.

Environmental Stewards – The strengths were: highly dedicated, collaborative and competent staff, environmental experts, excellent at managing and maintaining preserves, active in purchasing and acquiring land to protect, good marketing efforts, Severson Dells is a great educational program, diverse recreational opportunities, protecting rivers, extensive trail system, protecting natural lands and areas, and a solid tax base. The suggestions for improvements were: to focus on the mission and stay true to the mission, become an education provider, focus on preserving the land, passive recreation, avoid duplication of services, i.e. golf courses, soccer fields, etc., utilize volunteers, collect species data (know what animals, plants, etc. are really in the area and preserves), removing politics from the board decision-making, educate the Board on environmental issues, clarify land acquisition policy and follow those policies, improve marketing to differentiate from the Rockford Park District, adaptive re-use of the golf courses. The collaboration efforts this group thought of were to create a volunteer base, utilize more opportunities for funding (Pheasants Forever), develop a foundation, create an Advisory Board of environmental experts, the Board and the staff need to work together toward the mission, and finally, would like to see the DNR and others create conservation opportunities areas and cross-border collaborations.

Recreational Organizations/Users – This group was highly equestrian attended. This group is also very willing to be advisors to enhance the equestrian experience. They were very complimentary of the excellent facilities, improvements of equestrian trails, acquisition of land, Severson Dells and programming, and that the Officers are very kind and accommodating. When this group thinks of the Forest Preserve, the differentiation that they described was the natural setting, and the desire for non-motorized areas (the District should not offer any motorized options). The opportunities for improvement were: more equestrian options with less restrictions and better planning, longer and more challenging mountain biking trails, and to use volunteers. The ways they would like to enhance quality of life to the residence are: to see opportunities to use the District for citizens in every quadrant, and link the forest preserves as much as possible, hand off recreational programs not compatible with the mission (i.e. golf, soccer, etc.) or duplicative activities of the forest preserves, focus on linking preserves, re-open Pec Ed Center, be true to the mission, increase educational programs, segregate activities (no mountain bikes and horses together), utilize equestrian riders as volunteers and advisors.

Hunters – This group was an incredibly well-informed group with a mind for conservation and good ethics. This group started by comparing recreational hunting vs. wildlife management. They thought the following: that recreational hunting can be game management, recreational hunting should be the first option rather than sharp shooting, would like to work cooperatively with the District – issue of balance, true conservationists that want to do the right thing, and finally they indicated that most hunters find that sharp shooting is appalling although they recognize its role in addressing rampant CWD. The next question asked of this group was if the District should provide opportunities for hunting. It was an overwhelming yes, in addition to acquiring land to manage for hunting, provide hunters access by closing the preserves, create a pilot site to test to see if there is merit in this option. Also, for any type of hunting accessibility, safety needs to be considered, and they felt that bow hunting could be done without closing the preserves. They also thought looking at the topography and making an informed decision at that point would be in the best interest of the District and hunters. They would like to hunt fowl, bow hunt, and felt this would be a great opportunity for the District to raise revenue. They would like to see a youth hunting program implemented, an earn program should also be implemented (volunteer, clean-up, etc.), use models from other conservation district programs and replicate, and purchase adjacent land for hunters. The hunters also would like to see maintained focus on the mission, and consider partnerships with sportsmen’s groups. Would like to see conservation education expanded, partner with organizations and don’t become a provider, utilize members of the hunting group for hunting and conservation education and volunteers.

Young Professionals – This group consisted of all men. They met at Rockford College and were from Ignite Rockford. They shared the activities they enjoy and had not heard much about the District. They like to hike, they were not aware of the facilities at Severson Dells, they like the inexpensive golf, Klehm, and the walking paths. The reasons they didn’t use the District was they weren’t aware of the facilities (the logo is bad , lack of use of social media and website), lack of positive publicity, confusion with the Rockford Park District, and they were not aware that alcohol was allowed in the preserves but were excited to hear it. When asked what the District could do to get their attention, their suggestions were to have opportunities to rent equipment for use in the preserves (have vendor days and publicize), collaborate with non-profit organizations to create a positive perception of the District, develop a brand and market the District, positive press rather than negative, increase educational opportunities, use social media outlets (Facebook and website are difficult to maneuver), collaborate with Ignite and Next Rockford, and finally they felt the map is difficult to read and use. The comments they had on the mission were to be responsible in land acquisition, use land to generate income for sustainability, conduct an impact study to know who uses what, create a new logo, more readable maps and charts, utilize pictures more to tell the story of the mission. This group was very willing to provide technical assistance on social media.

Former Board Candidates – This was a very devoted group to the District. They thought there is significant confusion with the Rockford Park District, needs to be more definitive on uniqueness on preservation, education is required to clarify difference, utilize volunteers and staff as salespeople. They felt that the priorities for the next five years should be to develop a volunteer program, expand on fundraising, consensus that creating a foundation is important, marketing (continue to promote great things and be positive), and that land acquisition is an important part of the District. They felt the focus should be on preservation of land, complete the strategic plan, develop a volunteer program, education is very important, inventory of natural assets, assess the capabilities and capacities of staff (know what skills and abilities the District has), prioritize land acquisition according to mission and plan, and fundraising should be a focus. The deepest concerns and opportunities this group felt was to have a qualified Executive Director with an environmental background. Additionally, they were concerned about board politics, division, and structure, funding, environmental education, plan for land acquisition, increased awareness and positive perception, and finally utilize this group as volunteers and advisors.

Overall focus group summary – Pam compiled a list of strengths and weaknesses that were expressed in every focus group. Those were: great job maintaining the preserves, the preserves are unique in total land and beauty of the properties, focus on preservation of land, mission is key, expand education, and re-open Pec Ed Center, develop brand and marketing plan, differentiate from the Park District, utilize volunteers, including focus group advisors, focus on passive/non-motorized recreation, deep concern over leadership transition (Executive Director and new independent board), consider golf’s compatibility with the mission, and finally, pursue the value of establishing a foundation. There was deep gratitude from every group to be a part of this process.

Strategic planning – next steps – Pam then advised the Commissioners of the next steps. Those steps are to use the focus group data to create a vision, identify critical issues to be addressed to move the District toward a vision, establish goals based on the critical issues, and then develop a detailed plan including strategies, action steps, timelines, accountability and financial impact.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Commisioner Vacancy Process – Mary McNamara Bernsten read and distributed a proposed resolution for filling the commissioner vacancy. After much discussion, Mary made a motion for Pam Clark Reidenbach to develop an application and a scoring matrix that will be presented to the Commissioners on the 18th for a vote. Motion carried unanimously.

Tom Kalousek distributed a preliminary report on the pine tree removal at Roland Olson, Pecatonica River, and Fuller Memorial Forest Preserves. He also indicated that at the January 18 board meeting there will be discussion as to the tree removal and restoration plan.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Draft agenda for January 18.
IPRA National Conference – January 26-29, Chicago

ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 7:40 PM.
Next board meeting 5:30 PM, Tuesday, January 18, District Headquarters

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
January 13th, 2012

Board Meeting Minutes
January 12th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
January 4, 2012

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Judy Barnard Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Judi Day, Budget & Finance
Gloria Lind – 5:45 p.m. Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Cheryl Maggio Pam Reidenbach, Planning

GUESTS:
Stanley Campbell Craig Peterson Mike Kearney
Michael Eickman Paul & Georgine Arena Katie Townsend
Mary C. Anderson Lenae Weichel Jim & Judy Kennon
Kevin Haas – Register Star Sebastian T. – WTVO/Fox 39 Tim Gruner

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:33 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Judy Barnard led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for December 6 were approved.

ACTION ITEMS
Vacancy of Board Position – Jay Ferraro resigned at the December 6 Board meeting, due to moving out of the District. Judy Barnard made a motion to declare the seat vacant, and it was seconded by Audrey Johnson. Motion passed unanimously. The seat is declared vacant.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Selection process for filling vacant Commissioner position – The Board discussed the process of replacing a Commissioner. Randy Olson believes that the President has the power to appoint the Commissioner. Mary McNamara Bernsten reported that she had researched the State Statutes and the Forest Preserve District Code and found no provision for the President having sole authority to appoint a replacement when a vacancy occurs. She stated that according to the Statute, it is clearly a Board process. She asked Mike Scheurich to clarify this, and Attorney Scheurich stated that, regardless of the process used, it is up to a majority (four) of the members of this Board to make the selection. He added that, according to State Statute, a new Commissioner must be selected within 60 days of declaring the seat vacant.

Mary distributed materials from the Rockford Park District and described the process they used to replace a board member. She explained that there was a press release seeking candidates; a press release listing the names of the thirteen applicants; a candidate questionnaire; and a scoring system that was developed. All Park District board members ranked the applicants using the scoring system, then Director Tim Dimke and two Park District commissioners developed a short list of qualified applicants, after which a board vote was taken. Mary thinks the process worked well for the Park District and thinks it could work very well for the Forest Preserve District. She likes the idea of Tom Kalousek being a part of the process.

Judy Barnard indicated that because the Board is so new, the selection process is going to be difficult and she believes all of the Board members should be involved. She feels this Board has a good idea of what skill sets are needed.

Randy said that, since there has been so much good and bad publicity, he believes having outside people look at the process and making recommendations makes more sense in the long run. He indicated the three people outside the District on the Committee are Gary Marzorati, Pam Clark Reidenbach, and Jeri Wysong. He said all three of these individuals have great insight into what is going on with this Board.

Pam Clark Reidenbach then described the handouts that she provided at the Strategic Planning Committee meeting. She explained the application process she recommended for filling the commissioner vacancy, including a questionnaire pertinent to District ideals. She suggested that each Commissioner fill out a List of Skills form and return it to her to be used in developing a commissioner candidate application.

It was agreed by the Commissioners that the process will be laid over and added to the agenda for the January 18 meeting.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS
Tree removal program – Emails from several citizens concerning the pine tree removal at Roland Olson Forest Preserve were distributed with the meeting agenda, along with explanations from Tom Hartley, Director of Land and Development. The tree removal has been completed and all that is left is clean up and restoration. If anybody has petitioned the Board to speak they will be allowed to do so on January 18.

Judy Barnard invited everybody to the Moonlight Ski at Nygren Wetlands on January 8 from 4:30 to 8:30. The paths will be lit with luminaries. There will be a hike if there is no snow.

Saturday morning, January 7 at 8:30 AM Dan Williams is doing a bird walk at Klehm Arboretum.

ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 5:52 PM.
Next Board meeting 5:30 PM Wednesday, January 11, District Headquarters
Next regular Board meeting 5:30 PM Wednesday, January 18, District Headquarters

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
January 9th, 2012

Press Release Board of Commissioner Vacancy
January 5th, 2012

Board of Commissioners Minutes
January 5th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING

District Headquarters
5:30 December 6, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Mike Durand, Golf
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Jay Ferraro Tom Hartley, Land and Development
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Gloria Lind Steve Chapman, Finance
Cheryl Maggio Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Jim Pirages, Attorney
GUESTS
Mark Szula Tom Beissel Frank Ostling Brian Leggero
Dave Reithmeier Russell Heinrichs John Nelson Stanley Campbell
Richard Eertmoed Jake Henry Bob Lindstrom Dan Osborne
Mark Eucker Bill Brown Ron Weckemp Lisa Weckerly
Jane Snively Jim McFarlane Lenae Weichel John Reynolds
Don Krizan Dan Palmer Ruth Wagner Michael Kearney
Doug Dufford Lena Verkuilen Chuck Sweeney Kevin Haas
Steve Anderson Bill Shull
ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:30 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Randy Olson led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for November 29, 2011 were approved.

Randy read statements regarding the deer management program, the suggested employee bonuses, and the proposed process to fill the commissioner vacancy. He amended the agenda, removing those items.

PRESENTATIONS and PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Mark Szula, Operating Engineers Union – Mark Szula is the Business Agent for the Operating Engineers Union Local 150. Mark advised the Commissioners that the employees have worked hard and done very well with less. Dave Reithmeier, aborist/equipment operator for the District, has been a union steward for approximately 6 years. He would like to see this all straightened out quickly. Mark Eucker introduced himself as the assistant golf course superintendent at Macktown. He is concerned that the negotiations are at a stalemate. Finally, Richard Eertmoed, assistant superintendent at Atwood, is also a union steward for the golf division. He told the Board they have all applied for a newly created position of Golf Maintenance Supervisor, but they have not heard whether the positions will be a bargaining unit position. This point seems to be holding up negotiations for the union contract for everybody. Everybody’s interest is to move forward and get the new contract settled.

Kilbuck Creek pollution report – Don Krizan, Highway Department Storm Water Control – Don Krizan gave the Board an update on the Kilbuck Creek degradation 2011. He showed the general degradation on the map and the landfill operated by Rock River Environmental Services. He outlined a timeline from 1994 through 2013 and gave a background of the Rock River Environmental Services permits issued for the crossing of Kilbuck Creek and then went on to explain the current problems that now exist. In August 2011 the Soil and Water Conservation District observed silt discharge into Kilbuck Creek due to dewatering by the Rock River Environmental Services. Soil and Water determined this pollution was coming from the truck crossing at the landfill between a clay pit and the landfill. IEPA contacted Rock River Environmental Services, and the stream crossing was closed in October 2011. The Winnebago County Highway Department has observed the silt load and has inspected the sites of dewatering and stream crossing, noticing a reduction in silt since November 2011. It is believed that the cause is storm water runoff, since there are no ditches to hold storm water. Rock River Environmental Services is communicating directly with IEPA and the Highway Department and will continue to monitor the conditions.

IDNR deer management report – Doug Dufford and Tom Beissel – Doug Dufford, Tom Beissel and Frank Ostling from IDNR distributed informational packets to the Commissioners regarding the deer management report. The IDNR believes hunting can be managed safely in state parks and fish and wildlife areas. A PowerPoint presentation was then done regarding Chronic Wasting Disease, the history, what it does to the deer population, how it is transmitted, and its fatality rate. There is no cure or treatment for the disease. Most of the CWD within this area is a narrow band along the Boone/Winnebago line. There is an infected population along the Kishwaukee River. He advised the Commissioners of the CWD management strategy, focusing on intensive sharpshooting in known CWD areas. He then showed a graph showing the number of deer the District has eliminated. IDNR believes deer population has been cut in half in the forest preserves, which they believe is a good thing. (Letter from IDNR Director Mark Miller is attached.)

ACTION ITEMS
2012 deer management program – Randy Olson read into the record a letter regarding the deer management program, and struck this action item from the agenda.

Donation of pavilion – Jane Snively – Klehm – Jane Snively, the Executive Director of Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, recognized Tom Kalousek and Tom Hartley for their hard work and assistance to Klehm. She then presented the donation of the newly constructed Nancy Olson Children’s Garden Pavilion to the District. She explained it is an outdoor classroom which provides shelter for children of all abilities working at picnic tables in the pavilion. Judy Barnard made a motion to accept the donation of the Nancy Olson Children’s Garden Pavilion from Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, seconded by Mary McNamara-Bernsten. Motion passed 6-0, with Jay Ferraro abstaining.

Nature Preserve dedication – John Nelson, Nature Preserve Commission – On July 20, 2011, the Board approved the plan to add buffer areas to the Sugar River Alder and Colored Sands Nature Preserves. John Nelson distributed two proposals to the Board, then asked for approval to move forward with the designation on January 24, 2012. Russell Heinrichs gave an overview of the proposals. Gloria Lind made a motion to designate Nature Preserve status for additional buffer areas at Colored Sands and Sugar River Alder Forest Preserves, seconded by Audrey Johnson. Motion passed 6-0, with Jay Ferraro abstaining.
Land acquisition – addition to Deer Run Forest Preserve – Tom Hartley presented the resolution to purchase 80 acres adjacent to Deer Run Forest Preserve from Larry Bernier. Two grant applications were successful, the Grand Victoria Vital Lands grant and the Illinois Clean Energy grant. Because of these grants, there will be very little cost associated with this land acquisition. Judy Barnard moved to approve the purchase of 80 acres from Larry Bernier for the purchase price of $374,000, seconded by Audrey. Motion passed 6-0, with Jay Ferraro abstaining. Judy said that, with the $250,000 that the District is getting from the November 29 sale of bonds, she would like to see some of that money be used for match money for this purchase.
Tree removal contract – Tom Hartley is requesting approval to remove pines at three different forest preserves, Pecatonica River, Roland Olson, and Fuller Memorial. Fuller Memorial is more of a thinning of the existing pines that are there. The overarching resource goal for the District’s conservation property is to restore or recreate it to its pre-settlement status of the early 1800’s. The first survey that describes vegetation of the county from 1836-1840 indicates there are no pines listed in the survey records as naturally occurring in Winnebago County. Tom recommended entering into a contract with Premier Forest Products, starting this winter. He indicated there will be some cleanup costs, but no removal costs. Audrey Johnson moved to approve a contract with Premier Forest Products, Inc., of Oregon, Illinois, for removal of pine trees in specific areas of Roland Olson, Pecatonica River, and Fuller Memorial Forest Preserves during the winter months, 2011-2013, seconded by Mary. Motion passed 6-0, with Jay Ferraro abstaining.
Revised Board schedule¬ – At the November 29 Board meeting there was discussion about moving the Board meetings from Tuesdays to Wednesdays to avoid the District’s meetings coinciding with the Rockford Park District’s and others. This would also give the media a chance to attend the District’s Board meetings and be better informed of the issues facing the District. Mary made a motion to move the Board meeting dates to the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Motion passed, with two No votes and one abstention. The meetings will remain at 5:30 at District Headquarters, and will be on the 3rd Wednesday of every month.
Employee Bonus – Randy Olson read into the record a statement regarding the proposed employee bonus issue and struck this item from the agenda.
Revision to Code and Review of Code – Audrey moved that all non-budgeted action items with corresponding background be distributed at least 15 calendar days in advance of a scheduled Board meeting, seconded by Judy. Jay commented that by voting for that it would mean that the District couldn’t accept the donation from Klehm because there was no 15 day notice, or that the District couldn’t accept the nature preserve dedication because there was no 15 day notice and asked for clarification from the Attorney Mike Scheurich. Randy then indicated it takes five votes to change the Code. Roll call vote was taken, and the motion failed.
Review of Code – At the November 29 Board meeting, the Commissioners discussed the possibility of reviewing the District’s Code, just a review, not a change, to become better educated, after being in office for a year. Attorney Mike Scheurich then indicated that there are a few things he has noticed that need to be reviewed. Judy Barnard then made a motion to establish a committee to review the Code of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District, seconded by Mary. Motion passed, with two No votes and one abstention. Randy Olson then appointed the Committee to be Attorney Mike Scheurich, Mary McNamara-Bernsten and Cheryl Maggio.
BOARD DISCUSSION
Strategic planning/focus groups report – Judy Barnard and Pam Clark Reidenbach – Judy introduced Pam from the Not for Profit Center for Excellence. Pam gave a brief update on the status of the focus groups, indicating there has been a good turnout in each group. Pam was told that the Commissioners thought that a Media focus group should be created. Pam recommended waiting to talk with the media, because the purpose is to collect relevant data to plan for the future of the District. She recommends that once the plan is complete, then meet with the media and offer to answer questions to the plan, goals, core values, and objectives. She explained that once the focus groups are complete, she will compile all the information and give a presentation to the board with the findings. Next steps will be the presentation in January, then the Commissioners will identify critical issues, create goals, and finally, a strategy for the future.

Process to fill Commissioner vacancy – Randy Olson read into the record a statement striking this item from the agenda.
STAFF REPORTS
November financial report – Steve Chapman – Steve Chapman presented the November financial report. Replacement tax money came in higher than anticipated because of a state amnesty program. Improvement and Development Fund revenues were higher than anticipated primarily due to a few reimbursements received, and expenses were on target. Golf operations ended with a $58,000 surplus.

PDRMA award – Park District Risk Management Agency – The District was given a $1,500 cash award acknowledging the District’s loss prevention efforts. Tom told the Commissioners that this is a true testimony that the District’s employees are observing safety standards for the citizens who use our preserves.

Letter re: Baxter Road redevelopment project – Tom Hartley sent a letter to Cherry Valley Village Trustees, New Milford Village Trustees and the Village of Cherry Valley regarding the I-39/Baxter Road Redevelopment Project. The letter stated that the District would like to be able to comment on the proposed project area and future development plans regarding storm water runoff quantity and quality to determine any potential impact to the Forest Preserve District property.

2012 Calendars – Jamie distributed a Forest Preserve District calendar to each guest in attendance and to the Commissioners.

CLOSED SESSION
The meeting was closed at 7:59 PM to discuss union contract negotiations. The meeting re-opened at 8:50. Randy Olson declared no action was taken while in closed session.

ANNOUNCEMENTS & COMMUNICATIONS
IAPD annual conference – Tom Kalousek reminded the Commissioners that the Illinois Association of Park District Conference is January 26-29. Those who said they would be attending are registered and there is still time to register for those who haven’t.

Meeting with RPD – Tom announced that the first strategic scoping meeting with the Rockford Park District will be December 9 at noon. Tom Kalousek and Executive Director Tim Dimke from Rockford Park District will be attending.

Parks & Rec conference – Audrey announced that in January she will have a written report from the National Congress of Parks and Recreation, which she attended in Atlanta.

Strategic planning – Tom Kalousek announced that when Pam Reidenbach finishes the focus groups, she would like to have dates for strategic planning, possibly two meetings in January, and one would be a review. The second would be to finalize a strategic plan.

Resignation of Commissioner Jay Ferraro – At the end of the meeting, Commissioner Jay Ferraro turned in his resignation to President Randy Olson.

ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 9:04 PM.
Special Board meeting announcing Commissioner Vacancy – 5:30 Wednesday, January 4, Headquarters.
Strategic Planning meeting, 5:30 Wednesday, January 11, District Headquarters.
Next regular Board meeting 5:30 Wednesday, January 18, District Headquarters.

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Strategic Planning Committee Minutes
January 5th, 2012

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District

STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING
Headquarters
July 18, 2011 – 5:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Judy Barnard – Chairman Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara-Bernsten
Audrey Johnson
Cheryl Maggio

CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 5:39 by Chairman Judy Barnard.

WRITING COMMITTEE
The writing committee reviewed the following from the strategic planning meeting of the Board from July 12:

Mission
• Connecting people to nature while preserving natural lands.

Core values
• Connecting people to nature.
• Protecting and preserving natural lands and natural communities.
• Educating the community on the benefits and history of the land.
• Being responsible to the recreational needs of the people while minimizing the impact on the environment.

Definitions
• Preservation – Acquire, restore, protect, and manage diverse natural communities.
• Recreation – Provide opportunities for activities in a natural setting.
• Education – Enhance understanding and impart knowledge through programs and resources.

FUTURE PLANNING
Judy Barnard distributed the Land Classification and Use Policy, which lists three classifications of land uses: Reserve areas, recreation areas, and support areas. She advocated adding a fourth classification, cultural heritage areas. She summarized these areas as follows:

Reserve areas
• Preserve natural areas.
• Protect natural land forms.
• Protect flora and fauna.
• Preserve wildlife habitat.
• Acquire land for restoration.
• Connect natural areas.

Recreation areas
• Desirable locations for recreational activities.
• Desirable soils for recreational activities.
• Accommodate existing needs or future recreational uses.
• Accommodate special recreational uses.

Cultural heritage areas
• Preservation of cultural heritage.
• Interpretation of cultural heritage.
• Acquisition of historical site.
• Acquisition for demonstration purposes.

Support areas
• Accommodate support services and facilities.
• Lands vital for management of District.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS
Judy pointed out two articles from Parks and Recreation magazine: an article on Elizabeth Kessler, an IPRA Fellow award winner; and an article on natural lands inventory by Dr. Deanna Glosser, CEO of Environmental Planning Solutions.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 by Chairman Judy Barnard.

Judi Day
Recording secretary

Board Strategic Planning Committee Minutes
January 5th, 2012

Board Strategic Planning Agenda
December 29th, 2011

Board Meeting Agenda
December 29th, 2011

Board of Commissioner Meeting
December 20th, 2011

2012 Board Meeting Schedule
December 15th, 2011

Board of Commissioner Special Meeting
December 14th, 2011

Board of Commissioner Meeting
December 7th, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
December 7th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
November 29, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Mary McNamara-Bernsten – Vice President Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Judy Barnard Steve Chapman, Finance
Audrey Johnson
Cheryl Maggio

ABSENT
Jay Ferraro
Gloria Lind
Randy Olson

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:33 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll. Four Commissioners were present. Vice President Mary McNamara-Bernsten presided.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Cheryl Maggio led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of MINUTES Minutes for November 8 were amended to include the following correction to the BINA Hearing minutes: “President opened up the hearing for comments. No comments were received and the hearing was then closed.” Amended minutes were approved.

ACTION ITEM
Closed session minutes. Motion to approve closed minutes as discussed in closed session on 11/8: The following closed session minutes are hereby open for public view:
January 18, 2011 April 19, 2011 August 9, 2011
March 15, 2011 July 20, 2011
Motion passed unanimously.

Sale of Bonds – Steve Chapman distributed the Moody’s Investors Service report for the Commissioners. Steve then distributed a letter to Randy Olson from Spear Financial. The bid was negotiated with Robert Baird & Company, and the interest rate was better than anticipated, which generates an additional $250,000 for land acquisition. The closing date is possibly December 13. Mary McNamara-Bernsten read the ordinance to the Commissioners. Steve indicated that the reason the District is not refunding the entire amount is because there is a bond payment due at end of December. Audrey asked if some of this money will be used to pay for the Four Lakes addition. Judy thought that was not the intent. Cheryl indicated that it would qualify to be used for that. Audrey’s concern is that it isn’t taken out of the wrong funds. Judy said she thought the money is already planned for and this money is to be used for the parcels of land the District needs and wants. We always need match money and if we don’t leave it for that, we don’t get grants. Audrey then made a motion to approve the sale of bonds in the amount of $2,455,000 for the purpose of refunding a portion of the $2,715,104 2002A outstanding aggregate principal amount of Series 2002A Limited General Obligation Bonds of the District (the “Series 2002A Bonds”), Land Acquisition, and issuance costs of the bonds. The motion was seconded by Cheryl and Judy. Roll call vote was made and motion passed unanimously.
BOARD DISCUSSION
Judy brought up the polluting of Kilbuck Creek and that the District has invited IEPA to come to the December 6 meeting to address the issues. She would also like to have someone come from William Charles to speak to the Commissioners as to how they will be mitigating this issue and put them on notice that the District is deeply concerned.

Soil and Water Commission Board Meeting – Judy indicated that there were reports on the Baxter Road corridor. It is getting set to burst open the land at I39 and it backs up to the Kishwaukee Forest Preserve, which is also William Charles property, and they have come in for zoning on that. As part of the 2030 plan, there is a buffer requirement and because the ordinance part has not been completed, there’s nothing to enforce that as a buffered area. It is necessary for the District to stay on top of these developments that will affect our property. Judy would like to talk to Troy and Chuck Thompson at William Charles for the January board meeting.

Judy would like to review the Commissioners Rules of Order and Procedure and would like to discuss these at the January meeting or possibly at the December meeting, putting together a committee that would sit down with the District’s attorney and go over the Rules of Order.

Judy would also like to be sure the Commissioners address the residency of Jay Ferraro. He has admitted to moving to Moline, and that he has six months and one day to resign, and that needs to be followed up on. She feels the District needs a legal opinion on the right thing to do. He should not be voting if he is not legally able to. Another question as to his residency, if he has a house here and one in Moline, what affect does this have on his residency. Mary suggested asking Mike Scheurich about the legality of it all, and talk to Jay and ask him to leave. The District needs to make sure that everything is being done right.

Judy also mentioned that when the Commissioners are getting legal opinions, there needs to be a process for getting that information to the Commissioners. She thinks that if somebody gets a legal opinion, the Board needs to know what the legal opinion is from the Attorney. Everybody needs to be on the same playing field.

Audrey believes that at the next meeting there needs to be a discussion with Randy about discussing things in public or in the media without the Commissioners having previously discussed it. Referring to the fact that Randy stated that there will be a moratorium on sharpshooting, and things have gotten out of hand. A Commissioner cannot come across to the public as the Board has decided something, when they haven’t. Jamie Johannsen indicated that the deer population issue has not been a Board decision in the past, it is an operations decision.

Judy indicated that former County Board member, Gary Jury, would like to talk to her about the Chuck Sweeny article on Sunday, November 27, in the Rockford Register Star. Cheryl indicated she is not willing to let Chuck Sweeny badmouth the District with inaccurate information. Judy thinks the Board needs to talk about a policy regarding responding to the articles in the paper, especially the negative articles. Cheryl thinks a guest editorial in the paper to rebut the negative press is a good idea. Mary distributed a draft guest editorial for consideration of submitting to the newspaper. Cheryl believes the District needs to include a list of what they have accomplished since the new Commissioners have been in place, and that the District should submit a guest editorial every month to keep public updated on what is being done.

Hunting in the forest preserves is an issue that needs to be discussed in the strategic planning process. The deer population issue needs be discussed further to a much greater extent, and the impact of CWD and hunting. The District’s Mission is to protect the quality of the resources in the forest preserve and make sure the plants and the animals are a thriving ecosystem, and a balance needs to be kept. Public perception is that the sharp shooting started due to CWD, and that is not true. Cheryl and Judy would rather do a guest editorial as to the strategic planning process as opposed to the deer population issues.

Cheryl then thought it would be a good idea to have Chuck Sweeny invited to a focus group. Judy agreed and also thought it would be good to have all the people that ran for Commissioner invited to a focus group or be their own focus group. Jamie will talk to Tom Kalousek and Pam Clark Reidenbach about Chuck Sweeny being in a group as well as former candidates. There was further discussion about the media being their own focus group. Jamie will talk to Tom and Pam about that as well.

Mary and Judy believe the board meetings may need to be changed, due to the fact that the District meetings are same nights as the Park District meetings and the press covers the Park District and the District is not getting fair coverage. This will be further discussed on December 6.

FOCUS GROUPS UPDATE:
Jamie reported that three focus groups are complete and have been well attended. She described to the Commissioners the process of what happens during the focus groups, and gave an update of what groups are left and been added.

ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 6:36
Next board meeting 5:30 PM, Tuesday, December 6, District Headquarters

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
December 5th, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
November 30th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
November 8, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard - arrived at 5:34 Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Gloria Lind Steve Chapman, Finance
Cheryl Maggio
GUESTS
Lenae Weichel
Steven Alan Hilton, Sr.
Bernice Eisenbraun

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:32 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Gloria Lind led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for October 11 were approved.

BINA Hearing – The meeting was suspended for Public Hearing required under Bond Issue Notification Act (BINA). Approved by Gloria Lind and seconded by Mary McNamara-Bernsten. President Randy Olson opened up the Public Hearing for comments. No comments were received, and the Public Hearing was then closed. Meeting returned to open session.

PRESENTATIONS and PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Steven Alan Hilton, Sr., a/k/a The Undertaker – Mr. Hilton has offered his services to run special events for the District that could be used to increase use and visibility. He has done similar special events for Rockford Park District and other not-for-profit organizations.

Bernice Eisenbraun – Equestrian Facilities Ms. Eisenbraun is inquiring about the property over by the Old Stone Bridge Trail. She expressed her concerns regarding the safety of riding to places such as Roland Olson and being respectful that it is now a bike trail and horses are no longer allowed on the path. She is hoping to use the new forest preserve and that the District would consider putting a path around it that is horse friendly. Old Stone Bridge Trail is a perfect property for people and equestrians. She expressed how people love to see horses on the trails in the parks, but there aren’t many places for people to ride their horses and would like to have more options. The equestrian community would help and simply wants safe access. She stressed she would like to have other places to ride and it would be a wonderful asset for the community. Randy Olson asked Tom Hartley to look into it.

ACTION ITEMS
Bids – Macktown Historic District Sewer – Tom Hartley explained that the holding tank has started to leak and is requiring frequent pumping. Therefore, to solve the sewer problem in a more permanent fashion, the District would like to connect to the already installed but not in use sewer line. Two bids were received. Tom and the staff recommended going with the lowest bidder, Stenstrom Excavation. Jay Ferraro made a motion to award the contract for repair of the sewer system at Macktown Visitors Center at Macktown Historic Village to the lowest bidder, Stenstrom Excavation & Blacktop, Rockford, for a total cost of $38,735. Judy Barnard seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.

Holiday Schedule for 2012 – Mary McNamara-Bernsten moved to approve the holiday schedule for 2012, seconded by Audrey Johnson. Motion passed unanimously.

Fee Schedule for 2012 – Judy Barnard made a motion to approve the 2012 fee schedules for shelterhouse, camping, flying field, equestrian, and golf. Motion was seconded by Mary and Audrey. The discussion included the potential use of the building at the new Four Lakes addition, and Randy suggested putting a fee rate on that to see whether it’s feasible and legitimate to use. Tom Hartley mentioned that he has done some work on that already, and will put together a report. Randy recommended $150 for rental per day, with the idea of keeping the cost low enough to get people used to using it. He believes it would be ideal to be used for retreats, wedding receptions, etc. Judy and Mary would like to hold off on setting a price. Tom Hartley says the bathrooms will need to be enlarged and it is unclear if it would be able to handle that kind of use. Gloria inquired about the electric, and Tom indicated that it is fine, but the big thing that might need adjustment is the septic. Gloria believes it would be a fantastic campground. Tom Kalousek said it would be helpful to have Tom Hartley finish his report. Tom Hartley added that the pond is scheduled to be shocked in the spring by the DNR. Randy recommended that the staff looks at what fees would be in the future to rent and what things would be needed to be done to use the facility for rental, etc. Motion passed unanimously.

Budget amendment – development projects from 2011 – Steve Chapman advised the Commissioners that at the end of fiscal year 2010-2011, some of the development projects budgeted for the 2011 season were not completed. The unspent funds for these projects need to be forwarded to the 2012 fiscal year in order for the projects to be completed and paid for. Audrey made a motion to approve the budget amendment moving appropriations from 2011 to 2012 for the Capital Development Fund for a total of $52,700, seconded by Mary. There was no discussion. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Report on meeting with Rockford Park District – Randy and Mary had a meeting with the Rockford Park District and they brought back a lot of information to share with the Commissioners. Mary distributed a packet of information containing facts, statistics, goals, etc. It was suggested that the Park District’s golf department and environmental education department meet with the District’s golf and environmental education departments to discuss ways to complement each other’s programs and ideas. Randy added that it is a good opportunity for us to see what other people are doing and to improve our programs. Mary mentioned the Park District’s volunteer task force was also discussed and it would be a great resource to tap into because it is a very successful part of their programs. Randy liked that the Park District has their goals and priorities all over their offices and as strategic planning is done, goals and priorities can be developed and visible to all employees. Audrey indicated that the District needs to get the public input before anything is done (focus groups need to be completed).

Report on meeting with Plug & Pellet Club – Randy and Judy met with approximately 50 hunters on October 19, at 7:00 PM. The hunters are very passionate about hunting and the one problem is there are not as many places to hunt as there used to be. Farmers don’t allow it like they used to because of liability. Judy indicated they also had big concerns about the deer reduction and would like to set up some sort of a lottery so they could apply to be sharpshooters for the District. They would like a youth hunting program with bow and arrow. The group Randy and Judy met with was only one of eight sportsman groups in this area. Judy would like to interview more of the sportsman groups and add them as a separate focus group.

Strategic Planning Committee Report – Judy Barnard reported that invitation letters have gone out to the contacts for the focus groups, which are starting on Monday, November 14 and will continue through Thursday, December 1. After this process is done, then additional input from the community will be used to continue with the strategic planning process. Judy thinks this is an exciting time and is looking forward to what people have to say. Jamie reported that there is a good response from the first focus group. Tom Kalousek then clarified that a hunting group will be added as a focus group. Judy would like to see if all eight sportsman groups could be contacted.
NRPA conference – Audrey Johnson and Tom Kalousek went to Atlanta to the National Recreation and Parks Association conference. Audrey came back with a lot of information and she distributed information on equestrian areas that she feels will be very helpful to the District.

Foundation Committee Report – Audrey chaired a Foundation Committee meeting on October 20, 2011 and handed out minutes of that meeting. She also attended a Foundations seminar while at the NRPA conference. She gave a brief summary of what she learned and handed out a proposal for developing the Winnebago County Forest Preserve Foundation.

Contract with Pam Reidenbach – Judy Barnard has requested that the District’s contract with Pam Reidenbach be expanded to assist the District in the search process for the Executive Director position. Judy reiterated that the District needs the assurance that the person hired has the District’s interests at heart, and she feels since Pam has been involved with the strategic planning, she knows the District’s needs and wants. In addition, her fee is extremely reasonable. Tom Kalousek then handed out brochures that the IAPD distributes for Executive Director vacancies. Randy would like to lay this over and have Pam come and talk to the Commissioners at the next meeting. Tom Kalousek will contact her.

Amendment to Code – Audrey Johnson requested an amendment to the District Code that would require an automatic layover before a final vote can be made on certain action items. She believes that this procedure will give the Commissioners time to research and gather pertinent information on an issue before voting. This has been held over until the next Board meeting on December 6.

Kilbuck Creek storm water – Judy Barnard gave a report on Kilbuck Creek and the unusual color of the water. The IEPA is aware of the problem and are trying to correct it. Judy would like to call the head of the IEPA, Chuck Corley, and ask if Nancy could come to the next meeting to talk to the Board about how they intend to resolve these issues.

New Milford/Cherry Valley TIF District – Tom Hartley distributed a list of public hearing dates that he wanted Commissioners to know about, along with a sample letter for the Commissioners to send to the ZBA. The District’s issue is that the soils on that property are poor quality for building and could cause some water quality issues. More than half the soil is not suitable for roads or buildings. Judy reiterated the problems of the industrial areas along the I-39/Baxter Road corridor and the runoff, running all the way down to Rotary Road. Long term water will run to Rotary and could end up with ravines that could be 150 feet deep, therefore the runoff and detention issues need to be addressed.

Land Trust Alliance meeting in Milwaukee. Judy went to two different sessions. The first was Winning Land Conservation Ballot Measures, and the second was Using Clean State Water Revolving Fund. The Land Conservation Ballot Measures session had information on how they deal with opposition, etc, so if the District ever needs to deal with this, Judy would like to have somebody come from the Trust for Public Land and talk to the Commissioners. The Using Clean State Water Revolving Fund is not currently being done in Illinois, but the District could build a relationship with IEPA to help deal with storm water runoff and protect water quality.

STAFF REPORTS
Executive Directors report – Tom Kalousek distributed a letter from Illinois Clean Energy announcing a grant the District has been given for the acquisition of the Deer Run Forest Preserve addition. He then gave an overview of what the staff has been working on since the last board meeting. Facebook is up and running, new TV ads are running promoting gift cards for the holidays, and the 2012 calendar is at the printer. Jamie will be attending the Kishwaukee River Awareness Campaign on behalf of the District on December 1. Campgrounds will be closing for the season on November 16, the Ledges Golf Course closes for the season on October 30, and Atwood and Macktown will remain open until further notice. Tom also gave the Commissioners the Quarterly Work Plans for September, October and November. Cheryl Maggio asked about the union contract. Tom Kalousek indicated that the first meeting would be November 9, and that he is hoping for a contract for the December 6 Board meeting. Tom distributed end of season revenue statistics. Mike Durand indicated golf was better than average this year due to the good weather.

CLOSED SESSION – The meeting was closed at 6:38 to discuss closed session minutes. The meeting re-opened at 6:42. Randy Olson declared no action was taken while in closed session.

ANNOUNCEMENTS & COMMUNICATIONS
Ducks Unlimited fall dinner – 5pm Thursday November 10 – Giovanni’s

Sheriff Meyers sent Tom Kalousek a letter indicating that the Sheriff’s Department agrees to the proposed contract adjustments.

ADJOURN
Meeting adjourned at 6:50.

Next Board meeting – 5:30 Tuesday, November 29, District headquarters, for the sale of the bonds
Next regular Board meeting – 5:30 Tuesday, December 6, District headquarters

Ronelle Johnson, Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
November 21st, 2011

Board of Commissioners Meeting
November 11th, 2011

Board Meeting
November 9th, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
November 9th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
October 11, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Judy Barnard Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Jay Ferraro Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Audrey Johnson Mike Durand, Golf
Gloria Lind Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Cheryl Maggio Steve Chapman, Finance
Mike Scheurich, Attorney
ABSENT
Randy Olson-President GUESTS
Ted Long

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:31 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll. Six Commissioners were present. Mary McNamara-Bernsten presided in Randy Olson’s absence.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Audrey Johnson led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for September 13 were approved.

PUBLIC PARTCIPATION
Ted Long – Mr. Long shared some ideas regarding hunting in the forest preserves. He gave a background of himself and then gave a brief history lesson of the different wild animals in this area in the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. He believes there is now a deer problem. He has been on his farm since 1951, which is across the street from a preserve. In the last 10 years, nothing has been done with the deer. He passed around some pictures of what the deer have done to the corn field, as well as pictures of the corn before the deer eat it and after. He also brought in real ears of corn to show the damage the deer are causing and is asking the board to let the hunters control the deer population, and possibly have the meat donated to the people who need it. Cheryl Maggio asked if he was asking for bow and arrow as well as shotgun hunting seasons, and Mr. Long indicated he didn’t have a preference. Judy Barnard wanted to know if there were any other animals eating the corn. He believes it is just the deer. Cheryl wanted to know if he had seen groups of deer and Mr. Long indicated that he had seen groups of 20 and 30 deer going down the creek.

ACTION ITEMS
Adoption of laid-over 2012 budget and levy – Tom Kalousek stated that the budget was presented on August 24 and was laid over for 30 days. The public hearing was held. Judy Barnard made a motion to adopt the laid-over Annual Budget and Appropriations Ordinance of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District for the period from November 1, 2011 through October 31, 2012 and the laid-over Levy Ordinance for the year 2011. Motion was seconded by Gloria Lind. Motion passed unanimously.

Approval of sale of 2002A bonds – Jay Ferraro made a motion authorizing the issuance of bonds in an amount not to exceed $2,650,000 for the purpose of advance refunding a portion of the $2,715,104 outstanding aggregate principal amount of series 2002A limited general obligation bonds of the district (the “Series 2002A bonds”); and the setting of the bond issue notification act hearing. Motion was seconded by Audrey. Motion passed unanimously. The Commissioners were asked to look at their calendars for a special board meeting on November 29. In the event a special meeting can be agreed upon, this could get done by the end of the calendar year.

Bids on Central Shop roof – Tom Hartley advised the Commissioners that the Central Shop roof is in bad shape, and although it is a budget item for next year, it needs to be done this year. After some discussion as to when the project can be started, the 15 year warranty and the materials that would be used, Jay Ferraro made a motion to award the contract for the repair of the roof at Central Shop to the low bidder, Carlson Roofing, for a total cost of $37,460. Motion seconded by Judy. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Strategic Planning Report – Judy Barnard handed out memorandums to the Commissioners that reported that the focus group questions have been refined, and a time frame for proceeding has been created, along with a list of possible focus group participants. There are still some items to be completed before the focus groups can meet, which are tentatively scheduled for the 2nd, 3rd and 5th week of November. Mary McNamara-Bernsten asked everyone to look at the lists to see if something is missing, e.g., age groups, genders, etc., and to look at what is there and add to it. Jay Ferraro suggested people from the health industry, and a few names were mentioned and those people would be contacted.

Expanding the contract of Pam Reidenbach – Judy Barnard explained the need for assistance in the search process for Executive Director position and would like to have Pam Reidenbach help with that process. Judy explained her concerns about bringing in someone from the outside and thinks that a local person as a facilitator is the way to go because they know the District, the needs, etc. Pam is qualified to help with the search for the new Executive Director. Tom Kalousek believes that some of the work she has already done will help her in the process in the future, however the cost may not be very firm, because the extent of the role she would play is unknown at this time. This is being laid over until November 8.

Special Districts Forum – Audrey Johnson gave an overview of the Forum that she and Jamie Johannsen attended and brought back lots of information that is very comprehensive. She attended many informative sessions and has lots of ideas that she believes the District will be able to incorporate.

Amendment to the District Code – Audrey Johnson requested that the staff draft an amendment to the District Code that would require an automatic layover before a final vote can be made on certain action items such as land acquisition, staffing changes and contracts, and large expenditures. Audrey believes that this procedure will give Commissioners time to research and gather pertinent information on an issue before voting. There was a lot of discussion about this. As to large expenditures, Judy Barnard believes a dollar amount needs to be set. Tom Kalousek suggested the wording to be “non-budgeted items” instead of large expenditures. In regards to the issue of laying over for 30 days, Jay Ferraro believes we usually do wait 30 days, and that staffing and contracts should be up to the Director, and for large expenditures he agrees with Judy. He also believes the Code does not need to be changed, that nothing is being done wrong. Right now the Commissioners are simply having growing pains. Audrey further explained that issues need to be more thought through, so that the Commissioners have the chance to understand the issue and that the chairperson cannot do an interpretation, it needs to be in black and white to all the Commissioners. Mary McNamara-Bernsten believed that a lot of times we are efficient with the meetings, and with that comes some hurried votes, etc. Judy then added that anything that needs to be voted on needs to be seen in advance. Tom Kalousek indicated that it was almost a year ago that the Commissioner’s Rules of Order and Procedures were written, and maybe they need to be looked at some areas need additional clarification. Attorney Mike Scheurich then said that any Commissioner can move to table an issue or suspend a rule to have the protections needed. Once the motion to table or suspend is brought up, if majority goes along with it, an issue can move to table or suspend with a 4/3 vote. Judy mentioned it would be helpful to have the issues out a specified time period in advance, so people have the time to read it, understand and ask questions. Commissioners agreed 15 days in advance on items that needed to be voted on needs to get to the Commissioners. Audrey will re-write her motion for next meeting to reflect the changes discussed. The November 8 meeting will have the motion to read as follows:
Action items laid over – all non-budgeted action items with corresponding background information must be distributed to each Board member at least 15 calendar days in advance of a scheduled Board meeting.
Establishing a Foundation oral report – Audrey Johnson handed out a proposal for the WCFPD Foundation. Judy Barnard would like to have a couple different people come talk to us, at two separate meetings, about setting up a foundation. There are people willing to come and help us with the project. Audrey would like to contact Gloria Lundin, Jim Keeling, and somebody from NLI (Tom Ptacin and possibly Jerry Paulson). Audrey made a motion to have an executive committee meet with these 3 different people and the information will be sent to the Commissioners before the next board meeting (November 8), then the Board can talk and vote on what to do. Seconded by Judy. Cheryl Maggio brought up that it shouldn’t be an executive committee, because an executive committee needs officers. Audrey amended her motion to form a separate committee (named Foundation Committee). The Foundation Committee will consist of Audrey, Cheryl, Mary, Judy and Randy, seconded by Judy. Motion passed unanimously. Audrey will contact Lundin and Keeling, Judy will contact NLI, and the committee will come up with dates to meet to discuss information.

STAFF REPORTS
Executive Directors Report – Quarterly Work Plans – The Strategic Planning Committee had requested quarterly work plans from the administrative staff members. Tom Kalousek handed out the work plans for the Commissioners review. Mike Durand added that the Ledges will be closed for the season on Sunday, October 30. The other two courses will stay open until the weather dictates a closing time. This nice weather has been good for attendance on the courses. Gloria Lind asked if the District does anything about the mosquitoes. Mike Durand indicated the golf courses get sprayed. Tom Kalousek reported that the District does not use chemicals unless for a prescribed application or some nuisance situation. The District does have a few bat houses in the preserves.

CLOSED SESSION
The meeting was closed at 7:15 to discuss land acquisition. The meeting re-opened at 7:40. Mary McNamara-Bernsten declared no action was taken while in closed session.

ANNOUNCEMENTS & COMMUNICATIONS
Tom Kalousek distributed two articles that were in the Rockford Register Star. The first was about NLI’s new preserve along the Pecatonica River, and the second was an article regarding the Kishwaukee River cleanup.

Tom also distributed a press release regarding the New Community Trees Program. Judy Barnard will be representing the District.

Kevin Haas is doing a report on the Emerald Ash Borer because it is in Winnebago County; the Community Tree Advocate program is going to educate people on that.

Severson Dells annual breakfast 7:30am Wednesday, November 2 at Giovanni’s.
Ducks unlimited fall dinner – 5:00 PM Thursday, November 10 at Giovanni’s.
Illinois Association of Park Districts conference is January 26-29. If the Commissioners are planning to attend the conference, let Tom Kalousek know by December 1.

ADJOURN
Meeting adjourned at 7:40. Tom Kalousek has requested that the Commissioners check their calendars for availability on November 29 at 5:30 to have a special board meeting for the bond sale.
BINA hearing, 5:30, Tuesday November 8, Headquarters
Board meeting, 5:30, Tuesday November 8, Headquarters
Board meeting, 5:30, Tuesday December 6, Headquarters

Ronelle Johnson
Recording secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
November 4th, 2011

Notice of Public Hearing Required Under Bond Issue Notification Act
October 24th, 2011

Board Meeting Agenda
October 18th, 2011

Board Foundation Meeting
October 18th, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
October 12th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING

District Headquarters
September 13, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Cheryl Maggio Steve Chapman, Finance

ABSENT GUESTS
Gloria Lind Moe Kielsmeier
Jake Henry
Mark Dahlgren
Constance McCarthy
Katie Townsend
Lenae Weichel
ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:35 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll.
Six Commissioners were present; Gloria Lind was absent.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Jay Ferraro led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for August 24 were approved.

PUBLIC PARTCIPATION
Mark Dahlgren read a statement that he believes the Land Use Plan has been disregarded. He felt the proposed purchase from Don Gasparini is business as usual and the Board needs to understand it is their responsibility to abide by the Land Use Plan because that is what is best for Winnebago County.

Lenae Weichel shared what she believes the citizens of Winnebago County deserve from their elected officials. She believes they deserve completion of a mission and strategic plan and abide by that mission and plan; formation of a Land Advisory Committee consisting of the Board and citizens; transparency; a conflict of interest policy; opportunities for public comment and not have meetings behind closed doors; strategic plan for land acquisitions that would consider full costs; and finally the citizens should be able to expect every consideration will be in the best interest of the District and the people.

Katie Townsend was concerned about the last acquisition of property. She would like to assure public access of permanent natural lands. She would also like to see a good definition of the word “natural” established and have no additional land acquisitions until criteria are in place. She would like to see it kept simple. She commended the Board for working on their strategic plan.

Moe Kielsmeier With these economic times, he was surprised the District wants to buy property. He then asked if the sale had been closed. Randy said yes. He had no more questions or comments.
BOARD DISCUSSION
Strategic Planning Report – Judy Barnard reported that the wordsmithing committee met, and they have further defined the focus groups and re-wrote a number of the questions to keep them from being too general and too leading. They will be typed up and emailed to everybody so they can take a look at them.

ACTION ITEMS
Land acquisition – Gasparini property – Jay Ferraro made a motion to approve the payment schedule for the Gasparini property, seconded by Cheryl Maggio. During the discussion Audrey Johnson wanted the Board to have more information regarding the property. Audrey raised concerns about purchase of property. Randy stopped her and said the motion on the floor is strictly for the payment schedule and any discussion would need to be kept to payment schedule. Mary McNamara-Bernsten made a motion to move back to Board discussion to discuss the additional information. The discussion was moved back to Board discussion and out of the payment schedule resolution. Audrey urged the Board to reconsider the purchase. Mary McNamara-Bernsten wanted to know the process for reconsidering. Randy Olson advised that a member of the prevailing side can bring a motion to reconsider. Judy Barnard wanted clarification as to this property being used as a fishing pond as she believes the land may have a higher and better use. She then requested that Tom Hartley find out the total acreage with the Glenny property. Tom Hartley indicated the Glenny property is almost 120 acres. The discussion was completed, and the meeting moved back to the action item of land acquisition payment schedule. The motion passed with 5 yes votes and 2 opposed (Audrey Johnson & MaryMcNamara-Bernsten).

Refunding of bonds – Steve Chapman explained how the refunding of bonds would work, what it would cost and what the money could be spent on. The recommendation is to proceed with refunding $2,240,000 and issuance of new bonds would generate $220,000. Required use would be land acquisition. Debt extension would remain the same, which would result in no additional expense to the taxpayers or the District. This process could be accomplished by the end of November. Judy made a motion to proceed with the procedure of the refunding of the 2002A bonds and issuance of new bonds, seconded by Jay. Motion passed unanimously.

STAFF REPORTS
August financial report – Steve Chapman presented the July and August financial report for the Corporate Fund and explained the expenditures and revenue. He mentioned that the golf revenue is down considerably due to the weather.

Executive Director’s report- Sheriff agreement update – Tom Kalousek was asked by the Board at the August 24 Board meeting to look into the part-time Public Safety Coordinator position. He met with Chief Kurt Ditzler and recommends that Terry Nordberg be transferred, as the former Public Safety Coordinator, to the position of Lead Reserve Officer as an employee of the Sheriff’s Department.

Personnel expense – Tom Kalousek was asked by the Board at the August 24 Board meeting to give a breakdown of the $215,600 allocation to “various personnel expenses” that were added to the previously proposed budget. He explained the breakdown that the Board requested.

Marketing – Jamie Johannsen gave a report on the success of the Bike Ride for the Arts. The District was a sponsor of this event and nearly 500 people participated. The longest ride, 64 miles, went through two of the preserves, the Pecatonica Wetlands and Fuller Forest Preserves. Also in the works is the public awareness campaign on the Kishwaukee River. The District will be partnering with a Trustee in Cherry Valley, to make people aware that it is a natural resource and how to take care of it. An ad hoc committee is being formed to work on the marketing costs, etc. Jamie will also be representing the District in an on-going ecotourism project lead by the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Winnebago County, and the District. The District will be working with area organizations and attractions to promote destinations in the rural areas of the county such as trails, golf courses, natural areas, scenic roads, etc.

Preserve Operations – Vaughn Stamm reported that on Thursday, September 15, the staff is conducting the annual river sweep (picking up trash, cleaning up, etc.) on the Kishwaukee River.

Land and Development – Tom Hartley reported that the Villages of Cherry Valley and New Milford are interested in developing the I-39/Baxter Road development. The District has received a letter from the Villages’ attorney, James Stevens. This letter is preliminary as the Feasibility Study has not yet been completed.

Golf Operations – Mike Durand reported that the golf courses are now in “second season”. The revenues have been stable since Memorial Day. He also commented on the compressed prices not only in this area, but throughout the region (including Cook, Dupage, and Lake Counties). The golf courses will be open through October, barring any weather situations. Atwood will stay open through Thanksgiving. He gave an update on the sprinkler irrigation system upgrade. Midwest Irrigation will get started on the project in early October.

CLOSED SESSION
The meeting was closed at 6:50 to discuss a personnel leave of absence request. The meeting re-opened at 7:00. Randy Olson declared no action was taken while in closed session.

Leave of Absence request – Jay Ferraro made a motion to approve the IMRF Benefit Protection Leave and military leave of absence for Dennis McKinley from September 5, 2011 through September 30, 2013, seconded by Cheryl Maggio. Motion passed unanimously.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS
The District received a letter from Klehm expressing their gratitude for participating in the Trees of Klehm 2011 program.

Tom Kalousek distributed an article entitled “Conservation or Recreation” regarding land use that was printed in the Chicago Tribune.

The next Board meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, October 11; Tuesday, November 8; and Tuesday, December 6, all at 5:30 PM, at District Headquarters.

ADJOURN
The meeting was adjourned at 7:05 PM.

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board of Commissioner Meeting
October 12th, 2011

Board Meeting Agenda
October 11th, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
September 14th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District

BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
August 24, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Mike Durand, Golf
Jay Ferraro Judi Day, Budget
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Gloria Lind Ron Nelson, Assistant Operations
Cheryl Maggio
GUESTS
Kevin McCanne
Lenae Weichel
Constance McCarthy

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:35 PM. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll. All seven Commissioners were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mary McNamara-Bernsten led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for August 9 and 10 were approved.

PRESENTATION
Presentation – Kevin McCanne of Speer Financial gave a presentation regarding possible financing options for land acquisition and capital development. He gave a brief explanation of how much bonding authority the District has, the two types of bonds that the District can issue (e.g. limited bonds and referendum bonds), and the bond ratings. He distributed informational packets showing the principal and interest repayment schedules of several different types of bond issues.

ACTION ITEMS
Irrigation repair at Ledges – Mike Durand gave an overview of the irrigation system repair at Ledges Golf Course that was damaged by lightning. Mike recommended Midwest Irrigation, LLC do the repairs and upgrade as they are the vendor of record for the existing system. Jay Ferraro thought we needed to get outside bids. Audrey Johnson moved to approve the contract for the repair and upgrade of the irrigation system at Ledges Golf Course to Midwest Irrigation for an estimated cost of $56,000, seconded by Judy Barnard. The motion passed with 6 yes votes and 1 opposed (Jay Ferraro).

CLOSED SESSION
The meeting was closed at 6:18 to discuss land acquisition. The meeting reopened at 6:34 PM. Randy Olson declared that no action was taken while in closed session.

Land acquisition – Gasparini property – Jay Ferraro made a motion that the District purchase the Gasparini property adjacent to Four Lakes Forest Preserve for $216,500 with no interest for 5 years, seconded by Gloria Lind. Gloria Lind then said, “I call the question”. After discussion, the motion passed with 4 yes votes and 3 opposed (Judy Barnard, Mary McNamara-Bernsten, and Audrey Johnson). President Randy Olson directed the staff to contact Don Gasparini and make the offer to purchase. In the event he accepts the offer, move forward with the process of purchasing; if not, bring his response back to the Board. Tom Hartley indicated he would contact Gasparini before the next board meeting. Judy Barnard also wanted the staff to look for grants for this property. Tom Hartley indicated there was not much available for this type of property, but would look again.

Budget & Appropriations Ordinance – The Annual Budget and Appropriations Ordinance for fiscal year beginning November 1, 2011 and ending October 31, 2012, was submitted to all the Commissioners. There was discussion as to individual expenses. Cheryl Maggio inquired about the 125 flex health plan – is there good participation in those pre-tax benefits? Judi Day responded that there is good participation from the employees. Tom Kalousek advised that every year there is open enrollment and most people look at it from what is in their best interests. Jay Ferraro would like a breakdown for the $215,000 for various personnel expenses added since the August 9 meeting. Tom replied that is made up of wage increases, filling vacant positions, seasonal adjustments, and reorganization and that it is an accumulation of all personnel adjustments. Judy Barnard had a question about why the Capital Improvement Fund budget was lowered and the Corporate Fund was increased from this year’s budget. Tom’s response was that the Corporate Fund is more flexible in that it may be used for capital expenses and land acquisition, when necessary. Mike Durand noted that the mowers were taken out of this year’s budget to provide for the irrigation upgrade at Ledges.

Randy Olson made a motion to take the $25,700 allocated for Public Safety Coordinator out of the law enforcement budget and move it into the contingency line item, seconded by Jay Ferraro. Randy feels at this time we don’t need a part-time Public Safety Coordinator; Chief Kurt Ditzler has agreed to take over scheduling duties. Judy Barnard would like Chief Ditzler to come and talk to the Board. Randy clarified he doesn’t go out and patrol, he makes the schedule. Motion carried unanimously to reduce the law enforcement department budget by $25,700 by eliminating this position and put it into the contingency line item. Judy Barnard made a motion to move the $25,700 from the contingency to land acquisition. Motion was then withdrawn. The Annual Budget & Appropriations Ordinance was voted on and unanimously approved for layover to October 18, 2011.

Levy Ordinance – A motion was made by Judy Barnard and seconded by Audrey Johnson to approve the Levy Ordinance. Motion carried unanimously and approved for layover to October 18, 2011.

STAFF REPORTS
Marketing – Jamie Johannsen reported that the booth at the Winnebago County Fair went well. There were a total of 223 surveys filled out. This was the beginning of the public input for the strategic planning process. Most people were very happy to do the surveys.

Land and Development – Tom Hartley announced that the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportun-ity has awarded $50,000 in stimulus money to the District for the construction of a barn to screen existing utility structures located within the Macktown Historic District.

Golf – Mike Durand explained that right now there is a noticeable drop in play because the courses are less busy when school begins. Greensfees are down because of the discounted fees and package pricing. We need to be very aggressive in keeping daily fee play up, including more exposure from advertising and a more aggressive approach for filling peak and non-peak times.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Strategic Planning Committee – Judy Barnard distributed a Land Classification Matrix, which gives the Board some criteria for future land acquisition, if adopted. Tom Kalousek handed out a Priority Acquisition List. Tom also wanted to schedule strategic planning with Pam Reidenbach for September 12 or 13 to review the questions of each of the focus groups that Pam would be facilitating. He would also like to have her at the next board meeting, September 13.

Speer Financial – The Commissioners voiced some thoughts on the bond reduction option. Randy would like to refinance, get reduction and pay off debts. Judy thinks the District should wait to decide, and feels it is premature to borrow money. Randy thinks the corporate rate needs to be increased and would like to give Tom Kalousek direction to go ahead with refinancing the bond issue. Judy thinks we need to talk more about how to spend the money. Tom would like to talk with Steve Chapman to get his thoughts on the best place to put the money.

Forest Preserve District Foundation – Audrey presented the attached proposal for a Forest Preserve District Foundation. The Commissioners would like to have Gloria Lundin from Community Foundation come in and speak to the group more in depth.

CLOSED SESSION
Meeting was closed a second time at 7:30 to discuss Judy’s presentation at the Zoning Board of Appeals; Tom’s replacement for Executive Director; the inquiries the Board has received regarding Tom’s replacement; and Jay Ferraro’s upcoming resignation from the Board.

Meeting reopened at 8:10 PM. Randy declared no action was taken while in closed session.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Public hearing on budget at 5:30 on Wednesday, September 7, at District Headquarters.
Next board meeting at 5:30 on Tuesday, September 13, at District Headquarters.

ADJOURN
The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 PM.

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
September 12th, 2011

Budget Public Hearing
September 6th, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
August 25th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District

BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
August 9, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Jay Ferraro Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Audrey Johnson Mike Durand, Golf
Gloria Lind – 5:55 Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Cheryl Maggio Judi Day, Budget
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Steve Chapman, Finance

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:40. Recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll. Six Commissioners were present. Gloria Lind arrived at 5:55.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Randy Olson led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for August 2 were approved.

ACTION ITEM
Agreement with Tom Kalousek. Motion was made for the approval of Tom Kalousek’s retirement agreement by Mary McNamara-Bernstein, seconded by Audrey Johnson. Tom said he feels this is a good agreement for him and for the District, and he is willing to work beyond whatever date is expeditious to make the transition work. Randy indicated we are the lowest paying forest preserve district, which was part of the consideration. Since there were more specific questions relating to the matter, Audrey Johnson then made a motion to go into closed session.

CLOSED SESSION
The Board was polled, and there were two objections to closing the meeting, Randy Olson and Cheryl Maggio. The Board went into closed session at 5:55. Upon returning to open session at 6:24, Randy declared that no action was taken while in closed session.

Audrey Johnson moved to amend section 1 of the resolution, to read Tom Kalousek will receive retroactive pay of $26,503 on August 8 in accordance with the June 2011 Northern Illinois Executive Director Salary Survey. Judy Barnard seconded. No questions on the resolution as amended. Motion passed unanimously. Judi Day retyped the resolution as amended before signing.

BUDGET REVIEW
Presentation of 2011-12 draft line item budget – Tom Kalousek handed out budget folders to everyone present, which included spread sheets relating to the Corporate Fund, Capital Improvement Fund, Botanical Garden Fund, Liability Reserve Fund, Retirement Fund, and the Debt Service Fund. In addition to the budget, the following supplements were in the folders: Preliminary Budget, Wage and Salary Compensation Recommendation, Health Insurance Spreadsheet, a copy of the March 1 memo of the Organizational Realignment, Revised Proposed Marketing Strategy, Review of Labor Attorneys Cost from 2004 to Present, Descriptions of Capital Equipment, Projects, and Other Capital Related Expenditures, and the Land Advisory Council’s last Land Acquisition Priority List from 1999.

Tom explained the line item pages, the fund equities, and other documents in the packet, including the tax rates and the tax levies. He further explained that there was $516,000 in Corporate Fund and $346,000 in Capital Improvement Fund that have not yet been appropriated. Not included are any new positions, wage or salary adjustments, reserve deputies, additional support for Klehm or Severson, capital projects, equipment, and land purchases at this point. Tom advised the Commissioners that he would like them to have any questions ready for the August 24 board meeting. He also indicated that before the 24th, the District will have a listing of how staff would like money allocated.

Jay Ferraro asked how many positions there are currently. Judi Day answered 41 full-time positions, 1 unfilled full-time position, and 80+ seasonal positions. There was discussion as to what the rate increase was last year, which was 1% plus $175 stipend. Jay Ferraro wanted to know approximately what the 1% amounted to, and Judi Day said approximately $20,000. As of right now there is no increase in personnel budget, but that would be added. Tom suggested any further questions should be directed to Judi Day first, and she will direct them to the individual departments if needed. Cheryl Maggio inquired about the health insurance, specifically if the District has thought about having a PPO rather than an HMO. Steve Chapman responded that the District offers both choices to employees. Staff pay 15% of the cost. Cheryl also wanted to know if there was any discussion about increasing the amount the staff contributes, and if that was within the Board’s rights and jurisdiction. Steve Chapman responded that the union contract stipulates what union employees will pay.

DISCUSSION
Land Use Policy – Judi Barnard will have a statement concerning wind turbines ready for the Strategic Planning meeting on August 10. The ZBA meeting has been postponed to August 15, at Memorial Hall at 4:30.

CLOSED SESSION
Land acquisition – at 7:05, the Board was polled and went into closed session to discuss land acquisition. At 7:25, the meeting was reopened. Randy declared that no action was taken while in closed session.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
8/10 – Strategic Planning meeting
8/15 – Zoning Board of Appeals meeting at Memorial Hall
8/17 – Illinois Association of Conservation and Forest Preserve Districts at Byron Forest Preserve
8/24 – Next board meeting – Becky Kendall-Cook may make a presentation on demographics.
8/16-21 – Winnebago County Fair – the District will have a booth at the fair.

ADJOURN
Meeting was adjourned at 7:30.
Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Minutes
August 25th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District

STRATEGIC PLANNING MEETING
District Headquarters
August 10, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Audrey Johnson Mike Durand, Golf
Cheryl Maggio Jamie Johannsen, Marketing

ABSENT GUEST
Jay Ferraro Pam Reidenbach
Gloria Lind

ROLL CALL – Meeting was called to order at 5:44 PM, Ronelle Johnson called the roll call. Five Commissioners were present, 2 were absent (Jay Ferraro and Gloria Lind)

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Judy Barnard led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION
Strengths and weaknesses – Pam Reidenbach did a quick review of the August 2 planning session and indicated this session would be about external data collection: who the District wants to talk to and what to ask. Pam gave Jamie Johannsen a chance to give her input since she was not at the last meeting. Jamie agreed with the list and thought it was good. Tom would like to add a few weaknesses to the list: First, the lack of internal ability to quantify or qualify success as to the use of the facilities, and second the perception of low use. He also wanted to add as opportunities, increase in connecting people to nature, and increase the perceived value of the District. Randy Olson would like to see an increase in media press releases, as it seems that the Park District is in the media a lot and this could get people to value the preserves more. Tom also mentioned that he made contact with Becky Cook-Kendall. She is currently scheduled to be at the August 24 meeting. However, Tom feels that since that is the budget meeting, that date may not be the best to have her come, so a new date should be discussed.

External Data Collection – Pam explained what external data collection was and what it entailed. She suggests five focus groups. The idea of a focus group is a qualitative process designed to elicit opinions, attitudes, beliefs and perceptions to gain insights and information (i.e. needs, concerns, input, strengths and gaps). Pam is suggesting the focus group is the right approach. Cheryl Maggio thinks it is too narrow a group. She believes we should do more than just a focus group, like a survey, to maximize the people you can reach. Randy Olson suggested having a survey at the county fair, or suggested that they can go online to take the survey. The survey should have 3-4 questions. Randy suggested giving them something for participating in the survey or group: a round of golf, free camping, etc. Pam liked the idea of a survey at the fair and questions were brainstormed. It was decided there would be a survey at the fair and the Board came up with a questionnaire.
Pam brought the group back to discussing the focus groups. She suggested five groups, 6-12 participants per group, 90 minutes, at a convenient time, and to have clear goals for the session. There are three steps to focus groups. Step 1: identify the groups, Step 2: draft questions, Step 3: logistics.

After more brainstorming, the board decided that the focus groups would target the following groups:
1. Young professionals 25-40 age group; 4. Recreation organizations;
2. Environmental Protection; 5. Non-users; and
3. Environmental Education; 6. Business men and women.
It was decided the following groups may be a focus in the future. Partner groups; Farming/Rural/ Agricultural community/Rural mayors; Special interest groups; Community leaders.

Pam went on to explain the parameters of the questions for the focus groups. No questions that can be answered with a yes or a no; no leading questions that would influence answers; clearly formulated questions that are easily understood; carefully sequenced questions that start easy and gradually get more difficult. Finally there is an opportunity for written comments. The Board then broke up into groups of two and each took a “group” mentioned above and came up with questions. Each group brainstormed the questions to be asked of the focus groups. See attached list of Focus Group Questions.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Judy Barnard would like fellow Board members to confirm that what she has prepared to read at the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting concerning wind turbines is adequate, and if there are changes, to contact her. The Board was given Judy’s statement, given time to read it, and had some discussion as to what, if anything to take out. Judy stated she needs to reinstate the 2900 feet, and she is paring down what she has prepared. Audrey Johnson made a motion to approve in concept the written position statement that the Board is submitting to the ZBA with a few editorial modifications, including the distance stated. Motion seconded by Mary McNamara-Bernsten. There was some additional discussion as to simplifying some of the sections. Motion carried unanimously.

ADJOURN
At 8:30 PM, Cheryl Maggio moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Audrey Johnson.

Ronelle Johnson
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
August 18th, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
August 10th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
STRATEGIC PLANNING MEETING
District Headquarters
August 2, 2011

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara- Bernsten Tom Hartley, Land & Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Director of Golf
Audrey Johnson Judi Day, Budget & Personnel
Gloria Lind
Cheryl Maggio GUEST
Pam Reidenbach, Strategic Planning Facilitator

ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 5:50, recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll. All Seven commissioners were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Cheryl Maggio led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for July 20, were approved

ACTION ITEM
Budget amendment – In the 2011 budget, the line item for the intergovernmental agreement with the Sheriff’s department was estimated too low due staffing and parts for repairing older squad cars exceeded the budget. In addition, the Hononegah outhouse needs to be replaced due to an automobile running into it, and the District received a check from the PDRMA to replace it. A motion was made by Audrey Johnson to approve the budget amendment for Law Enforcement for an additional $15,500 and Capital Improvement for $14,500, and it was seconded by Gloria. The motion carried unanimously. Ordinance passed.

DISCUSSION
Land use – legal obligation policy – Randy Olson raised the question, does the board want to take a position on the windmills issue. There was a lot of discussion and one of the biggest issues to deal with is set back. Right now our setback is 1200 feet, and Ogle County is 2900 feet. Randy Olson indicated Greenway community would like us to adopt the same setback as Ogle County. The Board agreed that they should be on record and adopt the same setback as Ogle County. Not only would it make us consistent with the other counties, but it would make a better argument. Randy Olson indicated that the windmills being proposed are at the southwest part of the county, but the exact sites are not chosen yet. The general consensus is the Committee wants the District’s opinion heard and the opportunity to address the issues including distance, the migratory bird patterns, noise levels and when additional windmills are coming in, etc. The Board decided that the Commissioners would attend the ZBA on August 10, at the County Administration building to make the statement in person.

STRATGEGIC PLANNING TRAINING
Mission Statement– Pam Reidenbach reviewed the mission statement that was created on July 12, Connecting people to nature while preserving natural lands. There was more discussion reviewing this statement. It was decided to replace the word while to and. Therefore, the mission statement currently reads Connecting people to nature and preserving natural lands. There was more discussion and it was decided that the mission statement is pretty strong, but a few changes may be made in the future.
Strengths & weaknesses – Pam Reidenbach lead a discussion on internal strengths and weakness factors. She explained that these could be things anywhere from management and staff to vulnerabilities and gaps. She also indicated that some of these things would be on both the strength list as well as the weakness list. A list was made of both strengths and weaknesses.

Internal Opportunities – After the strength and weaknesses lists were made, a list of internal opportunities was made. This was basically a “wish list” of what the Board would like to see in the future, plans, goals, improvements, etc.

External Data collection – The next steps is going to be external data collection. External data collection will be going out into the community and gathering information from people about what they think of the Forest Preserves and what they have to offer. Pam indicated that the Board needs to be thinking of who and what groups of people to ask, what and when to ask them and in what format, (e.g. is it a focus group, survey, one on one interviews, etc.), and what time frame. Once those things are determined, Pam will go out into the community and collect the information/data.

Pam also mentioned The Healthy Community Study 2010, which was done by Joel Cowen of the Rockford Health Counsel, would be a good study to look at. It was suggested the Board download it off the website to get an idea of the demographics. Pam Reidenbach suggested that Becky Cook-Kendall may be able to come out and summarize the report. Tom Kalousek is going to look into that.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Upcoming Meetings – Next board meeting is scheduled for August 9 at 5:30 – presentment of proposed budget, at District Headquarters. An additional strategic planning meeting is scheduled for August 10, at 5:30 at the County Administration Building, 404 Elm Street, Rockford. The board will meet at the County Administration Building, and then go to the ZBA meeting that night, which is in the same building. A regular meeting scheduled for August 24 at 5:30 at District Headquarters, to finalize or answer any remaining questions about the proposed budget. A backup budget meeting date scheduled for September 6, 2011 at 5:30 at District Headquarters. The September board meeting is scheduled for September 20, at 6:30, at District Headquarters.

Wednesday August 17, at 10am, the Illinois Association of Conservation and Forest Preserve Districts are holding their summer meeting at the Byron Forest Preserve. Randy is on the agenda of that meeting. The meeting would probably last approximately 2 hours.

The Winnebago County Fair is the August 16 through August 21. The District has a booth at the fair. If the Commissioners would like to be in the booth, they are more than welcome.

ADJOURN
At 8:16 Jay Ferraro moved to close the meeting, seconded by Mary McNamara-Bernsten.

Ronelle Johnson
Recording secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
August 9th, 2011

Board Meeting Agenda
August 8th, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
August 3rd, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
July 20, 2011 – 5:30 PM
PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara-Bernsten Tom Hartley, Land and Development
Jay Ferraro Steve Chapman, Finance Officer
Audrey Johnson Mike Groves, Natural Resources
Gloria Lind Judi Day, Budget & Personnel
Cheryl Maggio
GUESTS
John Nelson
ROLL CALL
At 5:39 PM, recording secretary Ronelle Johnson called the roll. All seven Commissioners were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Gloria Lind led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes for June 21, June 27, July 12, and July 19 were approved.

PRESENTATION
Illinois Nature Preserves Commission – John Nelson from the INPC distributed the brochure, “Saving Our Natural Treasures”. He gave an overview of the INPC and how it can work with the District’s nature preserve expansion. INPC is very unique in that it does not own land in the state; it works with land owners to protect the lands. It was started in 1963 under George Fell, who also founded the Nature Conservancy and Natural Land Institute. The INPC was established under the Illinois Natural Areas Preservation Act of 1963. Nature preserve dedication provides the highest level of legal protection of any land within the state. The video presentation included pictures of Illinois Beach, Herron Pond, Little Black Slough, Fultz Hill Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, and Elizabeth Nature Preserve. Sugar River Alder and Colored Sands would be good candidates for nature preserve expansion. If a Nature Preserve is designated, its status or use cannot be changed without approval. Mr. Nelson indicated the time frame for the designation of the two sites would be approximately January or February of 2012.

ACTION ITEMS
Nature Preserve Designation – Judy Barnard made a motion to approve the expansion of designated Nature Preserves at Sugar River Alder Forest Preserve and Colored Sands Forest Preserve, and the motion was seconded by Mary McNamara-Bernsten. Motion passed unanimously. John Nelson will start the necessary process at the Nature Preserves Commission. After approval by the INPC, an ordinance will be brought before the Board.

Bids – Whitman Trading Post repair – Tom Hartley gave an overview of the repairs needed to shore up the foundation of the Whitman Trading Post. Tom recommended we award this contract to Hayward Baker, Inc. Gloria Lind made the motion to approve the contract for repairs to the Whitman Trading Post to Hayward Baker, Inc., Roselle, Illinois, for a total cost of $105,500, and the motion was seconded by Audrey Johnson. Motion passed unanimously.

Identity Protection Policy – Tom Kalousek presented the Identity Protection Policy that would ensure the confidentiality and integrity of employees’ and contractors’ Social Security numbers. Audrey Johnson made a motion to approve the Identity Protection Policy for the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District and the motion was seconded by Judy Barnard. Motion passed unanimously.
Tax Abatement Policy – Jay Ferraro made a motion revising the tax abatement policy and that the abatement of taxes is not in the best interests of the District. The motion was seconded by Audrey Johnson. Motion passed unanimously. A letter will be sent to the Rockford Planning Department.

Financial report – Steve Chapman gave a financial report through June for the Corporate Fund and the Capital Improvement Fund.

Budget Planning Assumptions and Guidelines – Tom Kalousek presented the 2011-2012 Budget Planning Assumptions & Guidelines. There was discussion about the ratio of health insurance premiums the employees pay versus the District. Cheryl Maggio requested that Judi Day prepare a report on how many current employees elect each of the four health plans provided by the District. Judy Barnard requested that Judi prepare a 10-year report on annual personnel increases. Jay Ferraro requested that Judi prepare a report on the total amount spent on labor attorney services. A motion was made by Judy Barnard to approve the 2011-2012 Budget Planning Assumptions and Guidelines, seconded by Audrey Johnson and Mary McNamara-Bernsten. The motion was passed 6 to 1; Cheryl Maggio voted No.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Tour of the preserves – The Board toured a number of preserves on July 19, starting at noon and ending around 4:30. The Commissioners covered approximately 83 miles on their tour.

Zoning and land use issues – Randy Olson stressed that the Board needs to take a stand on the zoning and land issues that come up, e.g. wind turbines, cell towers, etc. being so close to preserves. The zoning issues that arise are, if it borders District properties, the Board needs to discuss it with the zoning board. Tom Hartley indicated zoning issues are time-sensitive, and Tom Kalousek suggested sending them to the Board once Tom Hartley and/or Judi Day get them. Judy Barnard indicated if the Board is going to take a stand on these issues, there needs to be a lot more research done as to the effects of migrating birds, etc.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Strategic Planning Committee – Committee chairman Judy Barnard reported that the Committee has a few suggestions for succession planning for Tom Kalousek’s eventual retirement. Also, the Board should have a plan and a policy in place for future land use, acquisition, and development. Judy would like to know if there is a list of properties that should be acquired, or property available for acquisition that the former Land Advisory Council had compiled. She also pointed out a few articles from Parks and Recreation Magazine and would like Elizabeth Kessler or Dr. Deanna Glosser to come and speak to the Board.

STAFF REPORTS
Preserves – Revenue statistics were provided for shelterhouse reservations, camping, and equestrian tags, etc.

Golf – The decrease in revenue thus far this season in golf operations is blamed on a late spring and the ongoing heat wave.

CLOSED SESSION
At 7:42 the meeting was closed to discuss land acquisition and personnel reorganization. At 8:45, the meeting was reopened. No action was taken in closed session.

ADJOURNMENT
At 8:47 the meeting was adjourned.
Ronelle Johnson
recording secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
August 1st, 2011

Board Meeting Minutes
July 21st, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
July 12, 2011 – 5:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara-Bernsten Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Audrey Johnson Mike Durand, Golf
Gloria Lind
Cheryl Maggio (phone) GUEST
Pam Reidenbach

ROLL CALL
At 5:32, recording secretary Judi Day called the roll. Six Commissioners were present. Cheryl Maggio contributed to the discussions by phone conference.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE
Audrey Johnson led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

STRATEGIC PLANNING

Core Values – Board and staff reviewed and amended the following core values:
• Protecting and preserving natural lands and natural communities
• Educating the community on the benefits and history of the land
• Connecting people to nature
• Being responsive to the recreational needs while minimizing the impact on the environment

Definitions – The following terms were reviewed: Preservation, recreation, and education as they relate to the District.

Hypothetical scenarios – Board and staff were presented with two scenarios concerning the request for a doggie park and a proposal for updating the District’s History of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District. Pam asked them, in each case, to review such issues on the basis of What good – For whom – At what cost?

Mission statement – The group dispersed into small discussion groups to suggest a mission statement for the District. Several samples were read. Judy, Mary, Cheryl, and Audrey will meet Monday, July 18 to review the offerings and suggest a comprehensive mission.

Next – (Internal) strength-weakness analysis and (external) opportunities-threats analysis.

ADJOURN
At 7:42, President Olson adjourned the meeting. Next strategic planning session will be at Headquarters at 5:30 on Tuesday, August 2.

Judi Day
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Minutes
July 21st, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
June 27, 2011 – 5:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard (5:43) Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara-Bernsten Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Audrey Johnson
Gloria Lind GUEST
Cheryl Maggio Logan Sanders

ROLL CALL
At 5:40, recording secretary Judi Day called the roll. Six Commissioners were present. Judy Barnard arrived at 5:43. Copies of the District’s annual financial report for 2010 were distributed.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE
Jay Ferraro led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of MINUTES Minutes for June 7 were approved.

ACTION ITEMS
Tax abatement – This item was laid over at the June 21 meeting. Gloria Lind moved to approve the abatement for Rail Construction Equipment Company for a period of two years, and Jay seconded. After discussion, motion to approve the abatement was defeated by a vote of three in favor and four against. Those voting No were Jay Ferraro, Audrey Johnson, Cheryl Maggio, and Randy Olson.

Board schedule – Gloria Lind explained that she will not be able to attend meetings on Wednesdays. Jay moved and Mary McNamara-Bernstein seconded to overturn the change in Board schedule made at the June 21 meeting. Motion passed unanimously. Board will resume meeting on the third Tuesday of each month, beginning with the August 9 meeting.

Tour of preserves – There will be a tour of selected preserves on Tuesday, July 19, from noon to 6:00. Commissioners will meet at Headquarters and be transported in a fifteen-seat van.

STRATEGIC PLANNING

Definitions – Pam Reidenbach led the Board and staff through a process of small-group discussions on the following terms: Preservation
Recreation
Education - as they relate to the District.
Each group presented their definitions. Judy, Mary, and Jamie Johannsen will meet on July 7 to assimilate the various offerings into one definition for each.

Next – (Internal) strength-weakness analysis and (external) opportunities-threats analysis.

Next strategic planning session will be at Headquarters at 5:30 on July 12.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS
• “Party on the Prairie” will take place at Nygren Wetlands by the NLI at 6:00 on July 9.
• A tree auction will take place during “Trees of Klehm” at Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden on July 22.

ADJOURN
At 7:42, President Olson adjourned the meeting.
Judi Day
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Minutes
July 21st, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
Severson Dells Nature Center
June 21, 2011 – 6:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara-Bernsten Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Gloria Lind
Cheryl Maggio SEVERSON BOARD GUESTS
Dan Kasten, President Don Miller
Jack Armstrong Constance McCarthy
Don Barrett
Lenae Weichel
ROLL CALL
At 6:38, recording secretary Judi Day called the roll. All seven Commissioners were present.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE
Mary McNamara-Bernsten offered an inspirational reading and led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of MINUTES Minutes for May 10 were approved.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION and PRESENTATIONS
Severson Dells Nature Center – President Dan Kasten introduced the board members present and Don Miller, Severson’s Executive Director for 22 years. After a video presentation, Don gave an overview of the Nature Center’s educational outreach. Over 3,000 students visit Severson Dells and other preserves annually. Another 2,000 students receive environmental classes in their schools. Unfortunately, school budget cuts are resulting in reduced funding for field trips. The staff administers walks and lectures for all ages year-round, including some at the former Pecatonica Education Center. The Nature Center operates with an annual budget of $271,000, of which $191,000 is personnel expense. All this with only four full-time staff and 70+ volunteers. Much of the Center’s revenue results from their fundraising breakfast held in November each year. Dan and Don both thanked the Forest Preserve District for its assistance in grounds and building maintenance as well as monetary support for Severson.

ACTION ITEMS
Board schedule – Mary McNamara-Bernsten moved to change the regular meetings of the Board from Tuesdays to the third Wednesday of each month and Audrey Johnson seconded. Motion passed unanimously.

Tax abatement – The District received a request from the City of Rockford’s Department of Economic Development to abate real estate taxes for Rail Construction Equipment Company for two years. Jay Ferraro moved to approve and Mary seconded. After discussion, Audrey moved to lay over this item for further review, and Gloria Lind seconded. Motion to lay over passed unanimously.

Community Tree Advocate Program (CTA) – Mary moved and Jay seconded to approve the District’s involvement in the CTA. Motion passed unanimously. Four agencies – the County, the Park District, the City of Rockford, and the Forest Preserve District will each contribute $10,000 for three years to spearhead this community outreach program for public education in tree health, management practices, and tree selection. Grants and donations will also be sought. Judy Barnard will represent the District on the CTA advisory committee. The resolution was amended to specify a one-year involvement, with the remaining two years after annual evaluation of its effectiveness.

Prevailing wage – Jay moved and Gloria seconded to approve the determination of the prevailing rate of hourly wages as of June 1, as supplied by the Illinois department of Labor. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD DISCUSSION
2012 budget calendar – Tom Kalousek reviewed the dates set aside for budget reviews, etc. Guidelines used for budget preparation will be presented on July 20.

COPS grant application – Randy Olson submitted an application to the U.S. Office of Community Oriented Policing Services for a COPS Hiring Program grant on behalf of the District.

ADA consultant – Cheryl Maggio inquired whether the District could perform this function in-house. Tom Hartley explained that the consultant is already on site and conducting the audit and that the process is too complicated; the consultant hired for the job is expert in the requirements expected for ADA compliance. Tom Kalousek added that the District needs to establish a compliance plan by March 2012. We can begin prioritizing the needed projects during budget preparation.

STAFF REPORTS
Public auction – Vaughn Stamm told the Board that the public auction netted the District $9,491, besides the $17,000 gained from selling three pickup trucks to the County.

Revenue statistics – Vaughn explained the revenue sources for camping, shelterhouse, flying field, equestrian tags, etc.

Golf – Mike Durand described the challenge of overcoming the 71 days revenue already lost due to course closings this spring.

CLOSED SESSION
At 7:54, the meeting was closed to discuss land acquisition. At 8:28, the meeting reopened. No action was taken while in closed session.

Land acquisition – Audrey moved and Mary seconded to approve the submission of a grant application to the Illinois Clean Energy Community Fund for the purchase of the 81-acre Bernier property, adjacent to Deer Run Forest Preserve. Openlands will also apply for a grant, to the Grand Victoria Foundation. Motion passed unanimously.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS
• Special Districts Forum will be held September 25 to 28 in North Virginia.
• Letter from Jane Snively, Director of Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden, thanking us for providing golf cars for use at the Garden Fair.

ADJOURN
At 8:30, President Olson adjourned the meeting.
Judi Day
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
July 19th, 2011

Board Meeting Agenda
July 8th, 2011

Board Meeting Agenda
June 29th, 2011

Board of Commissioner Minutes
June 28th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
Rockford College
June 7, 2011 – 5:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Judy Barnard Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Mary McNamara Bernsten Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Gloria Lind Judi Day, Budget & Personnel
Cheryl Maggio

ROLL CALL
At 5:45, recording secretary Judi Day called the roll. All seven Commissioners were present.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE
Judy Barnard led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

STRATEGIC PLANNING TRAINING
Judy Barnard introduced Pam Reidenbach of the Northern Illinois Center for Non-profit Excellence, who will facilitate a series of training sessions for the Board members and staff. Today’s training covered the following topics:

Board role and responsibilities
• Determine the mission and purpose of the District.
• Select an Executive Director.
• Support the Executive Director.
• Ensure planning.
• Ensure adequate resources.
• Manage resources.
• Enhance the public standing.
• Ensure legal and ethical integrity.

Legal duties
• Duty of care – in decision making.
• Duty of loyalty – disclose conflicts of interest.
• Duty of obedience – guard against mission drift.

Why plan?
• Stimulate forward thinking.
• Clarify direction.
• Create a common path.
• Improve performance.
• Create momentum – focus.
• Address critical issues.
• Improve knowledge of the organization.
• Increase investment.
• Be proactive vs reactive.
Define parameters.
Tom Kalousek referred to the article written by former Director Mahnke entitled “What is a Forest Preserve?” Then he read the purpose of the Forest Preserve District, as defined by the Downstate Forest Preserve Act in the Illinois State Statutes: “For the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna, and scenic beauties within such district, and to restore, restock, protect, and preserve the natural forests and such lands together with their flora and fauna, as nearly as may be, in their natural state and condition, for the purpose of the education, pleasure, and recreation of the public.”

Following is the list of visions of the District generated in 2002:
• The public is well informed and confident that the District’s natural resources are stable and protected.
• People feel safe in the forest preserves, and public safety systems effectively respond to their needs.
• An active land acquisition program meets future recreation, preservation, and open space needs.
• Well-maintained properties are designed to meet the needs of future constituents.
• Well-established partnerships enhance the District programs.
• All communications and responses are open and effective.
• The President and Board of Commissioners are well informed and confident that the staff is administering and implementing established policies.
• The District attracts, trains, retains, and rewards skilled, competent employees.
• Adequate financing ensures the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective services.
• An effective information system is utilized both internally and externally as an educational tool.

Core values – the following suggestions were made from the floor:
• We believe in protecting and preserving natural land.
• We believe in protecting and managing natural communities.
• We believe in connecting people to nature.
• We believe in educating the community about the heritage of the land.
• We believe in being responsive to the recreational needs of the people while minimizing the impact on the environment.

Mission development – What good for whom? The following suggestions were:
• Enjoyment through nature.
• Natural preservation, outdoor education, and recreation for all.
• Assure public access to natural land for enjoyable outdoor recreation and education.
• (Present mission: To assure the public access to permanent natural lands and areas for safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation and education.)

OTHER
Cheryl Maggio distributed the financial report of the District supplied by Steve Chapman.

Tom Kalousek suggested that Board meetings be held on a day different from Tuesdays. After discussion, it was decided to hold regular meetings on the third Wednesday of each month, beginning in July.

ADJOURN
At 7:58, President Olson adjourned the meeting.
Judi Day
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
June 23rd, 2011

Board Strategic Planning Meeting
June 22nd, 2011

Board of Commissioners Minutes
June 22nd, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
Klehm Arboretum
May 10, 2011 – 6:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara Bernsten Tom Hartley, Development
Gloria Lind Drake Branca, Preserve Operations
Cheryl Maggio Vaughn Stamm, Preserve Operations
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing

ABSENT KLEHM BOARD GUESTS
Judy Barnard John Richards Allen Penticoff
Jim Maier Jane Snively
Dan Fluger John Moors
Michael Iasparro Carol Branca
Jan bowman Katie Hodge
Holly Hanson Sara Forte
Hunter Forte

TOUR of KLEHM ARBORETUM
Prior to the Board meeting, Commissioners were given a tour of the grounds, gardens and arboretum. A light supper was served after the tour.

ROLL CALL
At 6:17, recording secretary Judi Day called the roll. Six Commissioners were present.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE
Randy Olson led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of MINUTES
Minutes for April 19 were approved.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION and PRESENTATIONS
Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden – Jane Snively introduced Klehm board members and gave an historical overview of the operations and programs at Klehm. She thanked the Forest Preserve District for its ongoing support. Arborist and President John Richards talked about the emerging Community Tree Advocate program (CTA) being undertaken in conjunction with Morton Arboretum which would spearhead planting trees and attempt to save the 14,000 ash trees in Rockford from the emerald ash borer. He told of the grants obtained for new signage, shuttle, and hopefully for the CTA program.

Garlic mustard campaign – Allen Penticoff described the proliferation of garlic mustard and advocated a volunteer program to pull and spray this and other invasive species, especially in Rockford Rotary and Oak Ridge Forest Preserves. See prepared remarks, attached.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee regarding strategic planning – Audrey Johnson told the Commissioners that the first strategic planning training session with the Northern Illinois Center for Non-profit Excellence will take place at 5:45 Monday, May 23 at Rockford College, 5100 E. State Street, room 118. Light supper provided.
ACTION ITEMS
Budget amendment – Tom Hartley explained the need for wall and foundation repairs at the Whitman Trading Post at the Macktown Historic Village. He proposed moving appropriations of $45,000 from the Jenson Forest Preserve access project to effect these repairs. Bids will be sought. In addition to this transfer, $49,700 is needed for emergency repairs to the washed out slope at Seward Bluffs bridge. He proposed transferring this amount from the appropriations for the Seward Bluffs overlook project until insurance reimbursement is received. Drake Branca announced that a third District truck was sold to the County Highway Department for $7,000. He requested that this revenue be used to help replace an old skid loader. Audrey moved and Gloria Lind seconded to approve these amendments to the 2011 budget. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD DISCUSSION
IAPD convention – Cheryl Maggio and Audrey thanked Tom Hartley and Jamie Johannsen for the opportunity to attend the Illinois Association of Park Districts legislative convention earlier this month. They felt the programs presented and the legislative dinner were very worthwhile.

STAFF REPORTS
Drake Branca retirement – Tom Kalousek thanked Director of Preserve Operations Drake Branca for all of his accomplishments, enthusiasm, and support of the forest preserve system during his 37 years with the District. During Drake’s tenure since 1974, 25 new preserves and 7,287 acres were added to the District.

Land acquisition – Tom Hartley reported that the District was unsuccessful in its bid on the property near Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve, which was purchased at auction by another party for $224,000 on Sunday.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
• Garden Fair at Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden – June 3 through 5
• Wine in the Wetlands at Nygren Wetlands – June 4
• Woodsong at Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden – June 12

ADJOURN
At 7:20, President Olson adjourned the meeting.

Judi Day
Recording Secretary

May 10, 2011

Hello, my name is Allen Penticoff. I am a New Milford resident. While I’ve been to nearly every forest preserve in Winnebago County, I am most intimately acquainted with the vast preserves of the southern part of the county from walking in them regularly – year round.

Today I address you as a preservationist. There are two preserves in the southern region, namely Rockford Rotary and Oak Ridge, that are such splendid botanical heirlooms, that they need to be protected in the fullest from invasive species of plants.

Rotary preserve has an interesting undulating topography covered in dense understory plants of May apple, Trillium and many types of wildflowers – including the rare showy orchid. These plants are a prime example of the understory you would have seen as a child – but they are being threatened by the evil garlic mustard and other invasive plant species.

Rotary and Oak Ridge preserves are in the early stages of the garlic mustard invasion. Both preserves have precious specimens in abundance. With prompt attention, we can fend off the invaders and preserve these near pristine forests for generations to enjoy. To delay even another year will enable the invaders to gain ever more real estate – until that is all there is – buckthorn and garlic mustard.

I am urging the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District board to get behind a proposal I am suggesting – that volunteer citizens be recruited to do battle with these invaders. I am willing to lead in this task. We will pull the weeds and bag them – as this, and some isolated use of herbicide, is the only remedy to the problem.

It is a process that will need to be repeated for many years – just to hold the invaders at bay. Thereafter, spot control will always be required.

The district would need to be responsible for disposal of the bags in a landfill or by burning. Though I recommend the former rather than the latter. The only cost may be for the purchase of bio-degradable trash bags and perhaps the herbicide if that method is used to control dense areas of garlic mustard infestation. If the district can’t afford these things, I would seek donations of these materials.

These volunteer stewards – just as you are volunteers – may become part of a program that will come to acknowledge and reward those who do exemplary service in the name of forest preservation.

There is no time to waste – the invaders are here – ready to take over.

Allen Penticoff
6302 11th Street
New Milford, IL 61109
Cell: 815-985-1108
apenticoff@comcast.net

Board of Commissioners Meeting
June 22nd, 2011

Board Meeting Agenda
June 19th, 2011

Board Meeting Agenda
June 2nd, 2011

Board Strategic Planning Meeting
June 1st, 2011

Board of Commissioners Minutes
May 11th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
April 19, 2011 – 6:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara Bernsten Drake Branca, Operations
Judy Barnard – arriving 6:47 PM Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Cheryl Maggio Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Gloria Lind Steve Chapman, Finance
Vaughn Stamm, Southeast Manager
ABSENT
Audrey Johnson GUESTS
John McGovern
Chad Miller
Lenae Weichel
ROLL CALL
At 6:33 PM President Randy Olson requested Evelyn do a roll call with six Commissioners present.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE and INSPIRATIONAL REFLECTION – Cheryl Maggio presented the Pledge of Allegiance and Inspirational Reflection.

APPROVAL of MINUTES
Minutes for March 15, 2011 were approved.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION, AWARDS, and PRESENTATIONS
Introduction—new Director of Preserve Operations (May 16) – Drake Branca introduced Vaughn Stamm who will be the new Director of Operations starting May 16. Vaughn started as an intern 18 years ago working for the Forest Preserve District and is looking forward to all the challenges of his new position. The Board welcomed him.

Bow hunting in the preserves – Randy introduced Chad Miller who reported on bow hunting most of his life and being interested in conservation. Chad would like a bow hunting program in the forest preserves to draw visitors and provide a financial gain for the District.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee regarding Land Advisory Council –Mary McNamara Bernsten reported on the Land Acquisition Council Meeting (LAC) she attended with Audrey Johnson, Gloria Lind, Tom Kalousek and Tom Hartley on March 30. Mary reported the Commissioners role is to be developed and understood before the formation of a LAC. A LAC formed should have four purposes: identifying land parcels for acquisition, networking with landowners, development of a donor bank with the possibility of establishing a foundation, and establishing a parcel ranking system for land acquisition.

Committee regarding strategic planning – Judy Barnard reported on two Strategic Planning Committees meetings. The current District strategy document was created in 1999 and all agreed it would provide a good foundation. Pam Clark Reidenbach from the Northern Illinois Center for Non-profit Excellence gave a presentation April 11 to Judy Barnard, Audrey Johnson, Cheryl Maggio, Mary McNamara Bernsten, Tom Kalousek and Jamie Johannsen. Ms. Reidenbach suggested 2-2½ hour training sessions.

ACTION REPORTS
Strategic planning consultant proposal – Judy moved, seconded by Mary to approve the proposal from Northern Illinois Center for Non-profit Excellence at a cost not to exceed $3,500. Motion passed unanimously. Dates for the planning to be determined.

RFQ – accessibility audit services – Tom Kalousek presented John McGovern who made a presentation on ADA accessibility and the need for audit services by March 15, 2012. Judy moved, seconded by Gloria Lind to approve the services of Recreation Accessibility Consultants for an accessibility audit for $73,490. Motion passed unanimously.

Establish standing Finance Committee – Randy presented Steve Chapman, Assistant Treasurer to the Board and County Administrator. Steve gave an overview of the Forest Preserve District budget. Cheryl reported she would like to see last year’s actual revenue which Steve will provide. Randy appointed Cheryl as the District liaison to meet with Steve Chapman on a regular basis or as needed. The Board thought a quarterly presentation on the budget was adequate for their purposes.

NEW BUSINESS
Farm lease – Cheryl inquired about farm leasing for the District to receive more revenue. Randy requested charging $175 an acre. The consensus of the Board is to farm one more year and charge $175 per acre for the Seward Bluffs acreage.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Fishing lease at Four Lakes – Tom Hartley presented a fishing lease for the Gasparini property directly west of Four Lakes Forest Preserve. Randy talked with Don Gasparini and he may be interested in leasing to the District. Tom Hartley reported there would be a development cost of $50,000 to cross a stream, culvert work, gravel path, outhouse, and fencing. The consensus of the Board is Randy will talk more with Don Gasparini and bring information back to the Board.

STAFF REPORTS
Presentation – Marketing and Community Relations – Jamie Johannsen presented a Power Point presentation on Marketing and Community Relations.

Golf maintenance – Mike Durand reported on a letter from neighbors in The Ledges and his response letter to them. Golf statistics are down now due to the weather.

THANK YOU
Jay Ferraro wished to thank the District for the flowers sent for his mother’s funeral.

CLOSED SESSION
At 8:58 PM President Randy Olson closed the meeting to discuss land acquisition and leave of absence. Randy had Evelyn poll the members to close the meeting and all approved the motion. Motion passed unanimously to close the meeting. The meeting reopened at 9:23 PM. No action was taken in closed session.

Leave of absence – Jay moved, seconded by Mary to approve the leave of absence for a District employee. Motion passed unanimously.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS
• Letter from Natural Land Institute (NLI)– Jerry Paulson’s letter thanked the District for sponsoring the NLI Annual Dinner and Judy also thanked the District
• Atwood Award – April 27 at 5:00 PM at Cliffbreakers—contact Evelyn if you would like to attend
• IAPD legislative conference – May 3 and 4—contact Tom Kalousek by Wednesday morning

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 PM by President Randy Olson.
Next Board meeting – 6:30 PM Tuesday, May 10, at Klehm Arboretum with tour at 5:00 PM

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
May 9th, 2011

Board of Commissioners Minutes
April 20th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
March 15, 2011 – 6:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara Bernsten Drake Branca, Operations
Judy Barnard Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Cheryl Maggio
Gloria Lind – arriving 6:43 PM GUESTS Lenae Weichel
Constance McCarthy
Kevin Haas
Tyler Kerr

ROLL CALL
At 6:30 PM President Randy Olson requested Evelyn do a roll call with six Commissioners present.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE–Randy presented Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of MINUTES
Minutes for February 15, 2011 were approved.

STAFF REPORTS
RFQ – accessibility audit services – Tom Hartley presented the request for qualifications to perform an access audit of the District for compliance of ADA standards. Public agencies have until March 15, 2012 to complete an evaluation for accessibility. Four proposals were received, three from the area and one from Maryland.

COMMITTEE REPORT
Re: Land Advisory Council – Audrey Johnson reported on the meeting March 3, 2011, advocating the reinstatement of the Land Advisory Council (LAC) for the Forest Preserve District. The Committee included Audrey Johnson, Mary McNamara Bernsten, and Gloria Lind. Present were Tom Kalousek, Tom Hartley, and Judi Day. Audrey reported on the need to reevaluate the perspective of the LAC, have different duties, and a different name but to still report to Commissioners. Tom Kalousek reported that other forest preserves and conservation districts are being contacted on their use of a LAC and that report will be given at the next meeting.

BOARD DISCUSSION
Randy reported Jim Hughes is working on a FEMA grant to purchase Blackhawk Island. The Forest Preserve District will not want the property unless it is cleaned up without storage tanks or houses due to the cost of demolition. Judy Barnard reported there could be buried tanks that could create brownfields and could be hazardous to the land. Randy reported Frank Shier is working on a grant to buy trees to use along the Rock River and they will be delivered to Severson Dells nursery on April 14. Randy reported the United Sportsmen’s Youth Foundation fundraising dinner is Wednesday, March 23 in Freeport and he has free tickets for Commissioners. Cheryl Maggio reported on a meeting planned for Friday with Steve Chapman, herself, Judy Barnard, Judi Day, and Tom Kalousek to go over financial statements for the Forest Preserve District.

Strategic planning proposal – Randy reported on the strategic planning options. Judy reported she would like to use the S.W.O.T. analysis first. Audrey reported on a sustainable master plan seminar in Chicago she attended and the need to get more community input without spending a lot of money on outside advice. Audrey and Judy reported on the need to get more people into the preserves and using a survey. Tom Kalousek reported on the experience of Brook McDonald from The conservation Foundation in Naperville who has experience working with forest preserves and conservation districts. Cheryl reported using the names of the people who signed the petitions for the 35 people running for the Forest Preserve District Board. Judy reported Joel Cowan did a survey for the Forest Preserve District and Green Communities. Judy, Cheryl, and Audrey will form a committee to work exploring various options for a strategic planning process and survey the public for input.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION, AWARDS, and PRESENTATIONS
Golf operations 2011 – Tom Kalousek and Mike Durand presented a golf Power Point presentation with Board discussion.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS
• Randy reported on the Atwood Award on April 27. Jamie Johannsen will email Commissioners and there will be an invitation in the mail from Winnebago County Forest Preserve District.
• Tom Kalousek reported the IAPD legislative conference will be on May 3 and 4 leaving at noon from the Forest Preserve District. Please let Tom Kalousek know if you would like to attend.
• Jamie Johannsen reported on the River Gathering on June 16 and information is on the back of the new Four Rivers brochure.

CLOSED SESSION
At 8:36 PM President Randy Olson closed the meeting to discuss land acquisition. Randy had Evelyn poll the members to close the meeting and all approved the motion. Motion passed unanimously to close the meeting. The meeting reopened at 8:37 PM. No action was taken in closed session.

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:52 PM by President Randy Olson.
Next Board meeting – 6:30 PM Tuesday, April 19, at District Headquarters

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
April 15th, 2011

Board of Commissioners Minutes
March 16th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
February 15, 2011 – 6:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara Bernsten Drake Branca, Operations
Judy Barnard Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Cheryl Maggio Sally Claassen, Purchasing
Gloria Lind – arriving 6:48 PM GUESTS
Steve Anderson
ROLL CALL
At 6:32 PM President Randy Olson requested Evelyn do a roll call with six Commissioners present.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE and INSPIRATIONAL REFLECTION – Audrey Johnson presented the inspirational reflection and Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of MINUTES
Minutes for January 18, 2011 were approved.

ACTION ITEMS
Bids – golf cars – Sally Claassen presented the bids for 50 replacement golf cars at Macktown Golf Course. Audrey Johnson moved, seconded by Judy Barnard and Mary McNamara Bernsten to approve the low bid of $125,000 after trade-in to E-Z GO for 50 new golf cars. Motion passed unanimously.

Budget amendment – development – Sally Claassen presented the budget amendment to add $10,000 to the I & D budget. The money will come from the sale of two District pickup trucks for $5,000 each, one to Winnebago County. One truck will go to River Bluff Nursing Home and the other truck will be used downtown. Both trucks will be used for plowing. Sally Claassen discussed the bidding procedures. The District follows the procedures adopted by the County.

Tom Hartley presented the grant awarded to the District for $50,000 from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for construction of additions to two shelters at Hononegah Forest Preserve. Mary McNamara Bernsten moved, seconded by Judy Barnard to approve the purchase of a skid loader for $10,000 and $50,000 for building improvement to be added to the Capital Improvement Fund. Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution: Recommendation to Congress on use of Land and Water Conservation Fund – Tom Kalousek presented the recommendation to Congress on use of Land and Water Conservation Fund. The Federal Funds for land acquisition are not being passed down to the state and local units of government as per the original intent of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Audrey Johnson moved, seconded by Mary McNamara Bernsten to approve the recommendation to Congress for legislation to specify an annual allocation of at least 40% of the Land and Water Conservation Funds to the State Assistance program. Motion passed unanimously.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Law enforcement program
Ordinance adopting Mutual Aid Agreement for District police – Tom Kalousek presented the letter from the Sheriff confirming his commitment for law enforcement services. Two full-time senior deputies and up to six reserve officers will be used on weekend patrol. Safety Coordinator Terry Nordberg has four or five individuals that are interested in being reserve officers. Jay Ferraro moved, seconded by Audrey Johnson to approve the Ordinance for adopting Mutual Aid Agreement with Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System. Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution adopting the National Incident Management System – President Randy Olson presented the Resolution adopting the National Incident Management System that allows the Forest Preserve District to be compliant with federal mandate to be able to qualify for federal grants. Mary McNamara Bernsten moved, seconded by Judy Barnard to approve the Resolution to adopt the National Incident Management System policy and training for Forest Preserve District police. Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS
Audrey Johnson proposed Commissioners consider reinstituting the Land Advisory Council of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District so that background studies could be done on possible donations, trades, or purchases down the line, with the understanding that recommendations could come from the Council to the Board for which decisions could be made on an informed basis. It would be also recommended that those who served in the past be considered to be asked to continue if possible with the exception of herself, who could possibly act as a liaison to the Board of Commissioners. She also feels this Council could meet on call or bi-monthly so as to not call unnecessary meetings. Mary McNamara Bernsten, Gloria Lind, and Audrey Johnson were appointed to a committee to review the request to reinstitute the Land Advisory Council.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION, AWARDS, and PRESENTATIONS
Land and resource management – Tom Kalousek and Tom Hartley presented a land and resource management Power Point presentation with Board discussion.

STAFF REPORTS
New golf course web site and promotions campaign – Jamie Johannsen and Mike Durand presented information about an on-line marketing service (Course Trends) scheduled to begin on March 1. The Board directed Mike Durand to study point-of-sale on-line reservation capabilities at each clubhouse. The new marketing service will include several incentives and promotions which can be tracked by staff.

Celebrate Earth news conference – March 22 – Jamie Johannsen reported on the news conference Tuesday, March 22 at 10:00 AM at Klehm Arboretum with all Commissioners invited. This year there will be a month of activities available through the Four Rivers Environmental Coalition celebrating Earth Day.

National legislative and policy updates – Tom Kalousek reported on a list of national legislative and policy updates. Steve Chapman will attend the meeting in June to discuss the 2012 budget process that will begin in July and August for the Forest Preserve District. Speer Financial will be asked to attend to talk on the process of bonds and referendums.

Special Districts Forum 201 – Tom Kalousek reported on the Special Districts Forum held in Northern Virginia Sunday, September 25.

Comprehensive planning consultant – Jay Ferraro moved, seconded by Mary McNamara Bernsten to lay over the Comprehensive planning consultant to the March meeting. Motion passed unanimously.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS
Judy Barnard reported Severson Dells will have wildflower walks this spring. May 10 at 7:00 PM Severson Dells and Natural Land Institute will have a showing of Aldo Leopold called Green Fire at Memorial Hall with a free will donation.
• Celebrate Earth news conference – March 22 – Klehm Arboretum • Atwood Award – April 27,
• IAPD legislative conference – May 3 and 4 • River Gathering – June 16

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM by President Randy Olson.
Next Board meeting – 6:30 PM Tuesday, March 15, at District Headquarters

Evelyn Winckler, Recording Secretary

Board Meeting Agenda
March 3rd, 2011

Board of Commissioner Minutes
February 16th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
January 18, 2011 – 7:00 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara Bernsten Drake Branca, Operations
Judy Barnard Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Audrey Johnson Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Gloria Lind Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Steve Chapman, Finance
ABSENT Sally Claassen, Purchasing
Cheryl Maggio Terry Nordberg, Public Safety Coordinator

GUESTS
Alise Howlet John Richards Lenae Weichel
ROLL CALL
At 7:00 PM President Randy Olson requested Evelyn do a roll call with six of seven Commissioners present.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE – Jay Ferraro presented the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of MINUTES
Minutes for January 3, 2011 were approved.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION, AWARDS, and PRESENTATIONS
President Randy Olson introduced Steve Chapman from the Winnebago County Finance Department. Steve Chapman has been with the County for 33 years and has a good working relationship providing financial assistance to the Forest Preserve District.

Klehm Arboretum – community tree initiative – Tom Kalousek introduced John Richards, an arborist and President of Klehm Arboretum. John Richards was with Klehm Arboretum from the beginning and helped raise money for the original buildings and worked with Tom Hartley on the Master Plan for Klehm Arboretum. With the County’s help and assistance from the Forest Preserve District with equipment and labor, Klehm Arboretum is on solid ground. Tom Kalousek reported the land and buildings at Klehm Arboretum are the property of the Forest Preserve District and there is a levy for Botanical Tax. Klehm Arboretum does their own programming and has been able to raise money for their operating budget. John Richards reported on a community tree advocate program that is provided by government, private businesses, and grant money. President Randy Olson inquired if a future Board Meeting in the spring could take place at Klehm Arboretum and John Richards reported that would be possible.

ACTION ITEMS
Bids – fertilizers and chemicals – President Randy Olson introduced Sally Claassen from County Purchasing who presented the bids for fertilizers and chemicals. Sally Claassen reported the Forest Preserve District has an intergovernmental agreement with the County and when possible local businesses are used but the law does not allow for discrimination. Mary McNamara Bernsten inquired if the costs for fertilizers and chemicals were the same as last year. Drake Branca reported last year the District spent less money but weather determines when more fertilizers and chemicals are needed. Judy Barnard inquired if organic fertilizers and chemicals are used and if they are harmless to wildlife especially the river at Macktown Forest Preserve. Mike Durand reported the District does use alternates when possible and they are EPA approved and used by licensed applicators. Jay Ferraro moved, seconded by Audrey Johnson to approve the purchase of fertilizers and chemicals for $51,642.48. Motion passed unanimously.

Bids – vehicles – Sally Claassen presented the bids for three ¾ ton 4×4 pickup trucks through the State of Illinois joint purchasing contract. All three trucks are replacement vehicles with the older vehicles going to the Municipal Auction and the funds from the auction will go back to the Forest Preserve District. Mary McNamara Bernsten inquired if some vehicles could be purchased at a later time and the number of trucks the Forest Preserve District has. Sally Claassen reported that the prices are only good for 90 days. Drake Branca reported there are about 37 trucks, a couple of SUV’s and an aerial truck, dump truck, and tree spade and if the District waits to buy vehicles the following year there would need to be a lot more replaced due to the heavy mileage and wear and tear on the vehicles and that no other ground maintenance equipment is being replaced this year. Judy Barnard inquired if there was a vehicle replacement plan and Drake Branca handed out a list of District vehicles. Judy Barnard moved, seconded by Audrey Johnson to approve the purchase of three vehicles from Anderson Rock River Ford for $72,096. Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution – change in Board schedule President Randy Olson presented the resolution to change the Board schedule. Jay Ferraro moved, seconded by Mary McNamara Bernsten to approve start time at 6:30 PM for regular Board meetings. Motion passed unanimously.

Budget amendment – development projects – Tom Hartley presented the budget amendment for development projects that is a transfer of money. Tom Kalousek reported that projects were budgeted for in 2010 and not completed. Jay Ferraro inquired as to the amount of money left in land improvement and Tom Hartley reported there is about $80,000 left in the I & D Fund. Gloria Lind moved, seconded by Mary McNamara Bernsten to approve the budget amendment. Motion passed unanimously.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Law enforcement program – President Randy Olson presented the law enforcement program comparing four options and reported the need to pass these programs quickly so grants could be applied for. Jay Ferraro moved to approve option three: contract with the Sheriff for two 12-month deputies, establish our own police powers, and hire part-time officers from other municipalities. Judy Barnard requested a lay over. Audrey Johnson reported the Forest Preserve District’s mission is not to own its own police department and was concerned about liability. Public Safety Coordinator Terry Nordberg reported he worked for the Sheriff’s Department for 32 years and with the Forest Preserve District since 1997 and has always had a good working relationship with the Sheriff’s Department. Tom Kalousek reported the purpose of law enforcement in the forest preserves is to inform, educate, and enforce only if needed. Mary McNamara Bernsten inquired of Terry Nordberg which option he preferred and he replied option one: to continue the contract with the Sheriff for two full-time and two three-month deputies. Tom Kalousek reported option three would be good if the Sheriff would agree to it. Jay Ferraro withdrew his motion for option three and moved, seconded by Judy Barnard to approve two ordinances: 1. An Ordinance creating the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District Police; and 2. An Ordinance adopting hiring standards for part-time officers; and a revised option three with two full-time officers and part-time reserve officers from the Sheriff. Motion passed unanimously.

STAFF REPORTS
Tom Kalousek reported the land acquisition presentation will take place at a later date and members will be notified. Tom Kalousek reported PDRMA awarded the Forest Preserve District a check for $1,500 for being compliant in over 90% in the Loss Control Review Program for 2010.

CLOSED SESSION
Early retirement incentive program – President Randy Olson requested Evelyn do a roll call and all approved the motion to close the meeting at 8:10 PM to discuss early retirement incentive program. Motion passed unanimously to close the meeting. The meeting reopened at 9:30 PM. No action was taken in closed session.

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 PM by President Randy Olson.
Next Board meeting – 6:30 PM Tuesday, February 15, at District Headquarters

Evelyn Winckler, Recording Secretary

Board of Commissioner Agenda
February 14th, 2011

Board of Commissioner Meeting
January 19th, 2011

Board of Commissioner Minutes
January 19th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
January 3, 2011 – 6:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara Bernsten Drake Branca, Operations
Judy Barnard Tom Hartley, Development
Jay Ferraro Mike Durand, Golf
Cheryl Maggio Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Audrey Johnson Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Gloria Lind Nancy Sylvester, Parliamentarian

ROLL CALL

At 6:30 PM President Randy Olson did a roll call with all Commissioners present.

PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE and INSPIRATIONAL REFLECTION

Judy Barnard presented an inspirational reflection followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of MINUTES

Minutes for December 9, 2010 were approved.

TRAINING SESSION

Nancy Sylvester presented a parliamentary procedure training session that included the following:
• Board training
• Parliamentary procedure
• Next steps – strategic planning (vision-mission-values-code of conduct)

BOARD DISCUSSION ITEMS

President Randy Olson requested deer culling information from Drake Branca. Drake Branca handed out information and reported due to Illinois Department of Natural Resource’s request; deer culling will begin the middle of January in the Kishwaukee corridor. President Olson reported seeking information on the Sheriff’s contract and trying to find a less costly way for law enforcement in the forest preserves. The consensus of the Board after discussion was that Executive Director Kalousek and President Olson will work together on this project and bring information to the following meeting. Judy Barnard moved, seconded by Gloria Lind to approve Tom Kalousek and President Randy Olson to work on the law enforcement project in the forest preserves. Motion passed unanimously.

Judy Barnard requested that topics should be listed on the agenda so the Board is prepared for the discussion.

Tom Hartley reported a house on Burr Oak Road in Roscoe has a bid out for salvage or demolition that is due tomorrow. Audrey Johnson inquired if the house might have some redemption possibilities and Tom Hartley indicated it was not salvageable.

BOARD DISCUSSION

The consensus of the Board is that minutes will now include who seconds a motion and the secretary will do roll call by alternating names and always calling the Chair last followed by the number that pass or fail.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and COMMUNICATIONS

President Randy Olson reported there will be a meeting at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, January 5 he and Tom Kalousek will be attending with the Rockford Park District and there is a meeting on Wednesday, January 5 at noon that Judy Barnard will attend with the Rockford Visitors Bureau.

Tom Kalousek will get dates that Nancy Sylvester is available for more strategic planning meetings.

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 PM by President Randy Olson.
Next Board meeting – 7:00 PM Tuesday, January 18, at District Headquarters

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Board of Commissioner Agenda
January 17th, 2011

Board of Commissioner Minutes
January 4th, 2011

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
BOARD MEETING
District Headquarters
December 9, 2010 – 6:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Randy Olson – President Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Mary McNamara Bernsten Tom Hartley, Development
Judy Barnard Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Jay Ferraro Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Cheryl Maggio Judi Day, Budget
Audrey Johnson Nancy Sylvester, Parliamentarian
Gloria Lind

GUESTS
Judge Brian Dean Shore Marilyn VanBuskirk Richard Lind
Amber Naraiello Lil Ferraro Robyn Ferraro
Barbara McNamara John McNamara Clyde J. Wills
Geri Nikolai Jerry Paulson Tracey Buckler
Autumne Nimmo Jes Buckler Loren J. Hainchek
Amanda Maggio Jan Herbert Marvin Winckler

SWEARING IN OF NEW COMMISSIONERS
At 6:30 PM Attorney Mike Scheurich introduced Judge Brian Dean Shore who performed the swearing in ceremony of the new Commissioners.

ROLL CALL
Attorney Mike Scheurich did a roll call with all Commissioners present.

ACTION ITEMS
1. Forest Preserve District Code–including Rules of Order and Procedure – Jay Ferraro moved to adopt the revised District Code. Audrey Johnson moved to include the Pledge of Allegiance before the inspirational reflection at all meetings in Section 2-7-D, Meetings. Motion carried with addition of Pledge of Allegiance.

2. Election of President and Vice President – Jay Ferraro nominated Randy Olson as President. Cheryl Maggio nominated Mary McNamara Bernsten as Vice President. There were no other nominations, and they were, therefore, elected to their respective offices.

3. Appointment and confirmation of District officers
• District Secretary & Assistant Secretary – Randy Olson nominated Gloria Lind as Secretary and Judi Day as Assistant Secretary.
• District Treasurer & Assistant Treasurer – Audrey Johnson nominated Judy Barnard as Treasurer and Steve Chapman as Assistant Treasurer.
• District Executive Director – Mary McNamara Bernsten nominated Thomas Kalousek as Executive Director. There were no other nominations, and they were, therefore, appointed to their respective offices.

4. Authorization for payment of bills and other services – Judy Barnard moved to approve authorization for payment of bills and other services with Winnebago County. Motion carried.

5. Schedule of Board meetings for 2011 – Gloria Lind moved to approve the schedule of Board meeting for 2011. Motion carried.

6. Agreement with Sheriff’s Department for patrol services – Gloria Lind moved to lay over the agreement with Sheriff’s Department for patrol services and all were in agreement.

7. Board training and parliamentary procedure – Nancy Sylvester reported on parliamentary procedure and board training that she will be conducting on Monday, January 3, 2011, at 6:30 PM at District Headquarters. Tom Kalousek would like the Board to consider keeping Nancy Sylvester as a coach and mentor for the Forest Preserve District Board.

COUNTY LINE FOREST PRESERVE
Tom Hartley reported on County Line Forest Preserve, the former Knox property, with a history of the events leading to the purchase of the Verona property. The purchase was made possible primarily from grants from Grand Victoria Vital Lands and Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation. Judith Barnard requested a letter of appreciation from this Board to all parties that made this property available to the Forest Preserve District.

OPEN BOARD DISCUSSION
All Commissioners thanked everyone and reported on the great team and will make strides and long lasting efforts to do the best for the Forest Preserve District.

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 PM by President Randy Olson.
Next Board meeting – 6:30 PM Monday, January 3, 2011, at District Headquarters

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Board of Commissioner Agenda
December 21st, 2010

Board of Commissioner Meeting
December 10th, 2010

Board of Commissioner Agenda
December 7th, 2010

Board of Commissioner Training
December 1st, 2010

Executive Committee Agenda
November 24th, 2010

Executive Committee Minutes
November 24th, 2010

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
Headquarters
November 10, 2010 – 5:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Scott Christiansen – President-arriving 5:43 PM Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Bob Kinnison – Chairman
Doug Aurand
Tom Owens
Kay Mullins
L.C. Wilson
Bob Hastings
Carolyn Gardner-arriving 5:37 PM

GUESTS
Judith Barnard Mary McNamara Bernsten Kevin P. Dennis, Jr. Kevin P. Dennis, Sr.
Jay Ferraro Loren Hainchek Phyllis Hall Audrey L. Johnson
Gloria Lind Cheryl A. Maggio Randy Olson Gwen Patterson

CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Chairman Bob Kinnison called the meeting to order at 5:35 PM. Minutes for November 10 were approved, including the closed session minutes.

EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT
Tom Hartley introduced Boy Scout Kevin Dennis, Jr. of Troop 57 from Alpine Lutheran Church who developed, led, and worked on an Eagle Scout project for the Forest Preserve District that involved making benches for Kishwaukee Gorge North Forest Preserve. The project took three days to make and paint the benches. There were 12 volunteers involved. Doug Aurand commented that only three out of 100 Boy Scouts make it to Eagle Scout.

INTRODUCTIONS – NEW BOARD MEMBERS
Kinnison requested that the seven new Board members tell a little something about themselves.

COMMENTS

President Scott Christiansen
I have had the honor of serving as President of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District for the past eight years. It’s a great organization that plays a very valuable role in the health of our community. I’ve learned a lot from my years in forest preserve leadership, and I can sum it all up by saying that running this organization is not as easy as it looks. The field of conservation and outdoor recreation has gotten very complex in recent decades. It’s not as simple as buying land, planting some trees and mowing the grass. Conservation, resource protection, wildlife management, and the ever-growing list of recreational demands require expertise, resourcefulness and the ability to balance multiple competing priorities. Another insight I can share with you: running county government has gotten more complex, as well. The Forest Preserve District and Winnebago County government have enjoyed a very productive and beneficial relationship for 88 years. We have had a good relationship with the County Human Relations, the IT Department, and the Sheriff’s Department. Law enforcement should stay with the Sheriff’s Department. But it became apparent to the County Board, who also served as the Forest Preserve District Board, that the time had come to adopt a new governance system for the Forest Preserve District. As responsible and responsive public leaders, the Winnebago County Board agreed that, in order to meet current and future challenges, we needed to elect a separate board for the Forest Preserve. And here you are. The Magnificent Seven who will carry on the great legacy of protecting our natural heritage for future generations. I want to personally thank you for volunteering for this very important job. I know campaigning wasn’t easy, but the real work lies ahead. You will have much to learn and consider as you chart the course for this organization that plays such a vital role in our community’s sustainable future. I congratulate you and place my faith in you as you take on the challenges and rewards of serving as Winnebago County Forest Preserve District Commissioners.

Chairman Bob Kinnison
As chairman of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District Executive Committee, I welcome you what I’m sure you will find to an awesome job. I can tell you my 16 years as a member of the Forest Preserve Board, and more than ten years as a member of Forest Preserve Executive Committee, the last two as Chairman, have been some of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences I’ve had as an elected official. It has been especially enjoyable, given my degree in natural resource conservation. Governing the Forest Preserve has not always been “a walk in the park”, or more appropriately “forest Preserve”, as we’ve faced some challenges, but really everything the Forest Preserve District does and provides is positive. What’s not to like about nature, beautiful landscapes and outdoor recreation? It’s an incredible organization with dedicated staff. I will definitely miss working on behalf of the Forest Preserve District. But, as Scott has indicated, good government knows when to evolve. It has been apparent to this Executive Committee in recent years that the future success of the Forest Preserve would require governance that could focus solely on its mission and dedicate itself to strategic leadership without the inherent distractions of County Board issues. So, in June 2008, the members of the Executive Committee with Randy Olson and President Christiansen’s leadership approved a resolution to put an advisory referendum on the ballot asking the voters to approve a separate governing board for the Forest Preserve District. On November 4, 2008, the referendum passed with a nearly 70% approval. On August 11, 2009, Governor Quinn signed the bill that would allow the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District to elect its own governing board. Today I would like to congratulate the seven newly-elected Forest Preserve Commissioners. We are grateful for your willingness to serve in this very important role and carry on the work we have been so proud to do on the Executive Committee, and on the full Forest Preserve Board before that. We will be officially “passing the keys to the gate” to you when you are sworn in next month. But today we just wanted to take the opportunity to mark this momentous occasion in the history of this organization and the very pivotal role we all, the Executive Committee and the new directors-elect, are playing in shaping the future of our County’s green space, protected lands, recreational areas, and natural resources. Over the Forest Preserve District’s 88 years, it has been clear that it has been a remarkable journey that has resulted in an enormous legacy for our citizens and future generations. We have the many dedicated County Board members, including those here tonight, to thank for the outstanding forest preserve system we have today. Our high hopes and dreams for the future success of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District now lie with these public servants just elected. I would add that as a new Board, you are fortunate to have a couple of members who have previously served as Forest Preserve Commissioners, including Judy Barnard and of course Randy Olson. You are further fortunate to have a previous Chairman of this Executive Committee as a member of your Board in Mr. Olson, and I hope that you will take full advantage of his leadership, especially since he played such an integral role in us ALL being here tonight to celebrate this transition. To forever commemorate this historic transition, and to publicly thank those who made it possible, we will be placing this bronze plaque in the lobby of Forest Preserve Headquarters. I also want to thank the Committee, many of whom I’ve served with for years, including Ms. Gardner, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Hastings, Mr. Aurand, Ms. Mullins, and Mr. Owens. I know that we are leaving the Forest Preserve in your capable hands, and I trust that we were good stewards during our tenure here. Thank you for serving, and enjoy your Winnebago County forest preserves!

Doug Aurand, LC Wilson, and Carolyn Gardner added their thanks to the staff of the Forest Preserve District, welcomed the new Commissioners, and wished them luck in their new positions and future endeavors.

INTERMISSION
The meeting was recessed at 6:00 PM and reopened at 6:32 PM.

CLOSED SESSION
At 6:33 PM Chairman Kinnison closed the meeting to discuss union contract. Kinnison polled the members to close the meeting and all approved the motion. Motion passed unanimously to close the meeting. The meeting reopened at 6:37 PM. No action was taken in closed session.

Union contract – Doug Aurand moved to approve the contract with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150, seconded by Carolyn Gardner. Motion passed unanimously.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Next Board meeting—6:00 PM Thursday, November 23, Courthouse (There will be a short meeting of the Committee prior to the Board meeting to approve tonight’s minutes.)
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM by Chairman Kinnison.

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Executive Committee Minutes
November 15th, 2010

Executive Committee Minutes
November 11th, 2010

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
CLOSED EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
Headquarters
October 20, 2010

PRESENT STAFF
Bob Kinnison – Chairman Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Tom Owens Judi Day, Budget
Bob Hastings
L.C. Wilson
Kay Mullins
Carolyn Gardner

ABSENT
Doug Aurand

CLOSED SESSION
At 5:58 PM, Chairman Bob Kinnison closed the meeting to discuss early retirement incentive program and approval of closed session minutes.

Early retirement incentive program – Tom Kalousek reported working with Judi Day and Kim Ponder from Human Resources on a five year early retirement incentive program. Only four or five employees are expected to sign up for this program. Some positions will not be filled and other positions will be filled internally with reorganization. Employees are given until December 31, 2010 to decide and the last day they have to leave is October 31, 2011. L.C. Wilson inquired as to what would happen if none of the employees signed up for the program and Kalousek replied there would be no program. Kinnison reported that the new Committee could rescind this policy when they take over. Kay Mullins inquired what would happen if all 19 of the employees were to take the program and Kalousek replied there would be fewer full time employees and a realignment which would not be a problem. Bob Hastings inquired if people in the union would be able to take management positions and Kalousek reported they will not because there will be fewer management positions available.

Approval of closed session minutes – Attorney Mike Scheurich reported that in closed sessions no action can take place. The following closed session minutes are to be approved in open session.
• 1/10/07 union update and land acquisition
• 2/28/07 land acquisition
• 5/14/08 land acquisition
• 6/25/08 leave of absence
• 9/10/08 closed session minutes
• 11/5/08 leave of absence
• 9/3/09 leave of absence
• 10/7/09 leave of absence and union update
• 6/9/10 union update.

ADJOURN
At 6:10 PM, the meeting returned to open session. Chairman Kinnison declared no action had been taken while in closed session.

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Executive Committee Minutes
November 11th, 2010

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
District Headquarters
October 20, 2010 – 5:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Bob Kinnison – Chairman Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Tom Owens Tom Hartley, Development
Kay Mullins Drake Branca, Operations
L.C. Wilson Mike Durand, Golf
Bob Hastings Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Carolyn Gardner Mike Scheurich, Attorney
Sally Claassen, Purchasing
ABSENT Judi Day, Budget
Doug Aurand
GUESTS

CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Chairman Bob Kinnison called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM. Minutes for September 2 were approved.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ACTION ITEMS
Bids – wireless connections – Sally Claassen presented the bid for wireless connection at the District office. The previous connection is not licensed and with more businesses in the area using wireless and a lot of bad weather, the connection has been down often. The bid calls for two links that are licensed, encrypted, and able to send and receive at faster speeds. Tom Owens moved to award the contract to Kelso-Burnett Company for the amount of $44,950, seconded by Bob Hastings. Motion passed unanimously.

2011 fee schedule – Tom Kalousek presented the 2011 fee schedule. There was no increase. Fees will remain the same in 2011 as in 2010. L.C. Wilson moved to approve the 2011 fee schedule, seconded by Kay Mullins. Motion passed unanimously.

2011 District holiday schedule – Kalousek presented the 2011 District holiday schedule. Mullins moved to approve the 2011 District holiday schedule, seconded by Hastings. Motion passed unanimously.

ADA policy – Kalousek presented the ADA policy. John McGovern of Recreation Accessibility Consultants developed an umbrella accessibility policy for the District that will be implemented over the next three to four years for outdoor environment accessibility. Wilson moved to approve the ADA policy, seconded by Mullins. Motion passed unanimously.

Agreement with Sheriff’s Department – Kalousek presented the renewal agreement with the Sheriff’s Department that has been approved by the Sheriff. Owens moved to lay over the agreement with Sheriff’s Department for the new board, seconded by Kinnison. A poll was taken to lay the agreement over for the new board with Kinnison, Owens, Mullins voting yes; Hastings and Carolyn Gardner voting no. Motion passed to lay over the agreement with the Sheriff’s Department to the new board; 3 for and 2 against.

Agreement with Winnebago County – Kalousek presented the agreement with Winnebago County for administrative services. Owens moved to approve the agreement with Winnebago County, seconded by Mullins. Motion passed unanimously.

STAFF REPORTS
Operations – Drake Branca reported statistics were doing well with the good weather.

Land and Development – Tom Hartley reported the Knox property which is now County Line Forest Preserve will soon have trail access. Chris Green from the Rockford Register Star may have an article concerning this property in the near future. Kieselburg Forest Preserve and other preserves will have new pathways to shelterhouses for ADA compatibility.

Marketing and Community Relations – Jamie Johannsen reported there is nothing new at this time.

Golf – Mike Durand reported golf statistics were doing well with the good weather. Macktown Golf Course is expected to close October 31 and Ledges Golf Course will be the second to close one to two weeks later, leaving Atwood Homestead Golf Course as the year round course to stay open.

Executive Director – Kalousek reported there will be a joint social meeting on November 10 with the present Committee and the new Commissioners that will be elected November 2. Kinnison requested Johannsen to prepare a speech for him to deliver to the new Commissioners. The new Commissioners will have their first meeting in December. A sample plaque to recognize the present Committee members was passed around for the Committee’s approval. The final Board meeting will be November 23 and there will be no action items.

CLOSED SESSION
At 5:58 PM Chairman Kinnison closed the meeting to discuss early retirement incentive program and approval of closed session minutes. Kinnison polled the members to close the meeting and all approved the motion. Motion passed unanimously to close the meeting.

The meeting reopened at 6:10 PM. No action was taken in closed session.

Early retirement incentive program – Owens moved to approve the early retirement incentive program, seconded by Hastings. Motion passed unanimously.

Minutes from closed sessions – Wilson moved to approve the following closed session minutes, seconded by Owens. Motion passed unanimously.

• 1/10/07 union update and land acquisition
• 2/28/07 land acquisition
• 5/14/08 land acquisition
• 6/25/08 leave of absence
• 9/10/08 closed session minutes
• 11/5/08 leave of absence
• 9/3/09 leave of absence
• 10/7/09 leave of absence and union update
• 6/9/10 union update.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Next Committee meeting – 5:30 PM Wednesday, November 10, Headquarters
Next Board meeting—6:00 PM Thursday, November 23, Courthouse
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:11 PM by Chairman Kinnison.

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Executive Committee Agenda
November 11th, 2010

Executive Committee Minutes
October 21st, 2010

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
CLOSED EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
Colored Sands Bird Banding Station
May 14, 2008

PRESENT STAFF
Jim Webster – Chairman Tom Kalousek, Executive Director
Bob Kinnison Drake Branca, Operations
Bob Hastings Tom Hartley, Development
Tom Owens Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Randy Olson Dan Williams, Land Advisory Council Chair
Doug Aurand
L.C. Wilson

ABSENT
None

CLOSED SESSION

Purchase of land Camp Grant/Rader property – At 7:04 PM, Jim Webster closed the meeting to discuss land acquisition. Dan Williams reported this is the first time he feels Eminent Domain should be used and now is the right time because of the blighted redevelopment area around the airport. The land owner, William Rader wants three times the appraised value. Tom Hartley reported three appraisals were done as previously requested by the Executive Committee so that the Forest Preserve District will be ready if Eminent Domain proceedings are initiated and the acquisition goes to court. Tom Owens requested Scott Christiansen contact Mike Bacon of the Health Department and Greg Tilly of the Zoning Department and Bob Kinnison also would like to see if other zoning or health issues could force the owner to sell instead of Eminent Domain. The majority of Commissioners did not want to use Eminent Domain unless justified. Doug Aurand requested if Eminent Domain is used, the County should use host money to pay for it. Other options will be considered first.

Purchase of land Willow Creek property – Hartley reported the owner of the Willow Creek property wants to sell. Trust for Public Lands did an appraisal on the 48.68 acres at $225,000. Initial contact has been made with the airport to see if they would be willing to purchase the property and either donate or hold for the Forest Preserve District to buy when grants or matching funds become available.

ADJOURN

At 7:38 PM, the meeting returned to open session. Webster declared that no action had been taken while in closed session.

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Executive Committee Minutes
October 21st, 2010

Executive Committee Agenda
October 21st, 2010

Executive Committee Minutes
October 21st, 2010

Executive Committee Agenda
September 7th, 2010

Executive Committee Minutes
September 7th, 2010

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
District Headquarters
August 11, 2010 – 5:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Bob Kinnison – Chairman – arriving 5:35 PM Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Tom Owens – Acting Chair until 5:35 PM Tom Hartley, Development
Doug Aurand Drake Branca, Operations
L.C. Wilson Mike Durand, Golf
Kay Mullins Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Bob Hastings – arriving 5:34 PM Judi Day, Budget
Carolyn Gardner – arriving 5:44 PM Sally Claassen, Purchasing

ABSENT GUESTS
none Nancy Grimme Schilling
Donald L. Carlson
Wes Lindberg
Ron Schneider

CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Acting Chairman Tom Owens called the meeting to order at 5:32 PM. Minutes for June 9 were approved.

BOARD ACTION ITEMS
Annexation to Cherry Valley Fire Protection District – Tom Kalousek presented Cherry Valley Attorney Wes Lindberg. Attorney Lindberg was there to request that the Cherry Valley Village boundary and the Cherry Valley Fire Protection boundaries be identical. When Cherry Valley annexed Forest Preserve District property in 2007 the fire protection boundaries were not changed. Some of the area annexed was within the New Milford Fire Protection District. Attorney Lindberg had prepared a resolution; however, Forest Preserve District staff had already prepared an ordinance for the Commissioners to sign. Doug Aurand moved to approve the annexation agreement to Cherry Valley Fire Protection District with the tax codes added, seconded by L.C. Wilson. Motion passed unanimously.

Donation of land – Stone Bridge Forest Preserve – Tom Hartley presented the donation of an addition of 61 acres adjacent to Stone Bridge Forest Preserve from Natural Land Institute. The only stipulation is for Natural land Institute to be recognized. The Forest Preserve District is also adding 10 acres with the purchase of the Butterworth property that is adjacent to the 61 acres from Natural Land Institute. Aurand moved to approve the donation of land adjacent to Stone Bridge Forest Preserve, seconded by Wilson. Motion passed unanimously.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ACTION ITEMS

Revised budget guidelines &
First review – 2011 Budget Ordinance and Levy – Kalousek presented the revised budget guidelines and the first review of the 2011 Budget Ordinance and Levy. The recommended fund balance for the Corporate Fund is increased. The Consumer Price Index is projected to be 2.7% which is up from last year but the estimated equalized assessed valuation is expected to be lower than last year. Health insurance premiums are expected to increase 14% in 2011. The number of law enforcement deputies will be cut back to save money. There will be no additional full-time employees. Klehm Arboretum and Severson Dells will continue to receive financial assistance. Aurand moved to approve the revised budget guidelines and the 2011 Budget Ordinance and Levy, seconded by Carolyn Gardner. Motion passed unanimously.

Tax abatement request – Kalousek presented the tax abatement request for Ingersoll Cutting Tool Company in Cherry Valley. Kinnison moved and Wilson seconded to approve the tax abatement request. Aurand reported that the Forest Preserve District cannot afford tax abatements and they are not part of the mission of the Forest Preserve District. Aurand reported school districts and townships were not giving tax abatements. Wilson reported he is in favor of this tax abatement to help businesses and provide unity in the City. Gardner reported she agrees with Wilson. A vote was taken with Gardner and Wilson voting yes; Aurand, Kinnison, Owens, Mullins, and Hastings voted no. Motion did not pass; 2 for and 5 against.

Bids – gasoline – Sally Claassen presented the bids for gasoline that the Rockford Park District, City of Rockford, and Rockford Airport participated in. Owens moved to approve the gasoline bid, seconded by Mullins. Motion passed unanimously.

STAFF REPORTS
Operations – Drake Branca reported on camping and shelterhouse statistics that were down due to all the rain and mosquitoes. There was some flood damage with culverts washed out, a lost boat ramp at Trask Bridge Forest Preserve, and a lost dock at Atwood Homestead Forest Preserve that was found with a PDRMA claim of $30,000. Owens inquired on the bottomland at Pecatonica Forest Preserve that was seeded with parts under water but Branca reported the Forest Preserve District will have to wait to see how much is lost there.

Land and Development – Hartley reported September 2 the Forest Preserve District is expecting an agreement for access to County Line Forest Preserve. Open Lands Trust will purchase land for the Forest Preserve District and sell back to Boone county Conservation District and Forest Preserve District at the purchase price less the value of a conservation easement. The Forest Preserve District will pay the interest charges to Open Lands. The funds to purchase the property will come from grants. The Forest Preserve District and Boone County Conservation District currently have a letter of inquiry to the Illinois Clean Energy Fund. We are hopeful that the fund request will be accepted and we would be able to purchase the property by December 2010.

Marketing and Community Relations – Jamie Johannsen reported the Forest Preserve District candidates running for office were emailed, and those without an email address were mailed information, so they can post information about themselves on the Forest Preserve District web site in a secure manner that will be visible on September 6 and will have the candidates listed randomly.The Winnebago County Fair is August 17-22. The Forest Preserve District will have a large booth with an aquarium again to attract interest. The booth will be manned by Forest Preserve District staff. Kinnison commented he would like the Forest Preserve District to have a booth at the Boone County Fair. Johannsen will look into it next year.

Golf – Mike Durand reported the junior golf program concluded this week. The high school tryouts are starting now with four high school teams utilizing District courses. The numbers are good and junior golf is thriving. The Winnebago County Amateur is this weekend at Macktown Golf Course. The second half of the golf season will start with promotions and discounts including family golf to fill non-prime and slower tee times. Golf statistics reflect on the wet hot July conditions. Ledges Golf Course has been flooded the last two weekends. Turf grass is suffering but the grass will recover.

Executive Director – Kalousek reported there will be a meeting Thursday, September 2 at 5:45 PM before the full board meeting. A public hearing on the 2011 budget will be held on Wednesday, September 29 at 5:00 PM at District Headquarters and a member from the Executive Committee should attend.

There will be meetings on Tuesday, September 7 and Wednesday, September 8 from 7:00-9:00 PM at District Headquarters for the Forest Preserve District candidates running for office.

The Forest Preserve District is tied to the County electronically for telephones, internet, and accounting and the T1 has failed so there will be a process to rebid for an electronic connection.
A plaque is being planned to recognize the work the Executive Committee Members have done to create a new government structure for the Forest Preserve District.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Board meeting—6:00 PM Thursday, August 12, Courthouse
Next Committee meeting – 5:45 PM Thursday, September 2, Courthouse
Public hearing on 2011 annual budget – 5:00 PM Wednesday, September 29, District Headquarters
ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 PM by Chairman Kinnison.

Evelyn Winckler
Recording Secretary

Executive Committee Agenda
September 3rd, 2010

Executive Committee Minutes
September 3rd, 2010

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
District Headquarters
August 11, 2010 – 5:30 PM

PRESENT STAFF
Bob Kinnison–Chairman–arriving 5:35 PM Thomas Kalousek, Executive Director
Tom Owens – Acting Chair until 5:35 PM Tom Hartley, Development
Doug Aurand Drake Branca, Operations
L.C. Wilson Mike Durand, Golf
Kay Mullins Jamie Johannsen, Marketing
Bob Hastings – arriving 5:34 PM Judi Day, Budget
Carolyn Gardner – arriving 5:44 PM Sally Claassen, Purchasing