NOTE: Minutes are posted after their approval at the following month's meeting. For example: The minutes from the May meeting will be posted in June, June's minutes will be posted in July, etc. It is unlawful to post draft minutes.

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    July 8, 2008

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Rosemary Bartman, Susan Mathews, and Thomas Dahlfors, Road Commissioner Robert Helfers, Assessor Donald Andrews, and Clerk Dawn Seemann. Absent Officials: Trustee Michael O’Leary.

    Guests in Attendance: Carol Panek, Bob Pope, Rob Rosemann, Daniel C. Tonyan Sr., Scott Swanson, Howard Hensley, Iris Hensley, Ray Fischer, Cassandra McKinney, Keith Leidy, Ron & Jan Rychlik. (Steve Schmeiding was also here, but didn’t sign in.)

    Bid Opening: Mathews motioned to move the bid openings to the top of the agenda. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.
    - Clerk Seemann opened the amended bids for the building project. The results were as follows: Wm. Tonyan & Sons, Inc. – Base bid amount: $344,000; Alternate #1: $28,000; Alternate #2: $1,800; Completion Date: 160 days. Rosemann & Sons, Inc. – Base Bid amount: $341,213; Alternate #1: $14,664; Alternate #2 $2,801; Completion Date: 145 days.

    Guest Speaker: Mathews motioned to move the guest speaker up in the agenda to follow the bid opening. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.
    - Cassandra McKinney, Water Resource Manager, McHenry County spoke to the board asking that we consider placing an observation well on township property. She stated that the county is working with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. They received a grant from Congressman Manzullo to do groundwater studies. The studies will help with such issues as drought and growth concerns. The initial studies will be to determine the quantity of water in specific areas. The county will insure and maintain the wells, and Ms. McKinney will download the information she retrieves once a month and will report to us with her findings. The study is being done throughout McHenry County. There will be a minimum of one test well per township with the funding from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. Additional funding will provide additional wells. In time, these wells will help determine a better idea of the true quantity of water in the county, as well as which direction the water is flowing from. These wells will be used as tools for growth & planning for the township. The cost is approximately $8,000 per hole to install the well. Again, this project is fully funded by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and McHenry County Government. As more funding becomes available they plan on testing the quality of the water as well.

    Public Speaking: Keith Leidy spoke about a letter he received regarding a change in zoning for a piece of property on Kishwaukee Valley Road that is located next to his property. He stated that he had gone to the zoning meeting and had some questions on the Schmieding petition. He has some confusion as to what is or isn’t happening at that site.

    Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the June 10, 2008 Regular Monthly Minutes as presented. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.
    - Bartman motioned to approve the June 23, 2008 Special Meeting Minutes as presented. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District- Dahlfors motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of June 11, 2008 through July 8, 2008 in the amount of $5,688.97. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund - – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of June 11, 2008 through July 8, 2008 in the amount of $8,345.66. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: June 1, 2008 through June 30, 2008, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund – Bartman motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of June 1, 2008 through June 30, 2008. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$24,270.440$0$968.53$25,238.97
    Town Fund$84,816.230$15,571.31$69,775.31$139,020.23
    Road & Bridge$104,369.200$2,762.60$37,463.06$139,069.66
    Permanent Hard Road$92,953.160$196.35$50,525.32$143,282.13
    Building & Equipment$33,754.1800$12,771.85$46,526.03

    Prime Fund – motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of June 1, 2008 through June 30, 2008. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious BalanceTrans Between FundsExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$75,415.6300$140.97$75,556.60
    Town Fund$265,642.3000$496.55$266,138.85
    Road & Bridge $121,919.5400$227.89$122,147.43
          

    GA Report: Schuster reported that she had one case come through, but they did not qualify for assistance. She added that she has received several calls this month.

    Clerk's Report: Seemann asked the board to consider purchasing another fireproof filing cabinet for her records. The existing cabinets are filled to their max.

    Road Commissioner’s Report: Helfers reported that he has had many complaints about the traffic since Route 176 has been closed. He contacted Bradley Cousin, who is in charge of the road counts at the county, to get a traffic count on the roads most used since the detour has been set in place. The projected finish time for the bridge repair on Route 176 is November 2008. Helfers added that the county had received about four miles of brand new road for the detour paid for by the state, and we received nothing so he will be contacting the state for possible funding to help repair the township roads after the Route 176 project has been completed.
    - Helfers received a letter from the Governor, as did all of the highway commissioners, asking for us to employ some young people to work with the Road Commissioner and the state will pay them $10 per hour. Helfers is concerned that due to their age they can’t drive the trucks and there really isn’t much they can do, so he sent the letter back stating he wasn’t interested.
    - The inmates from the McHenry County Jail have been picking up the trash along the township right-of-ways, and in Helfers’ opinion they are doing a nice job.
    - Carol Panek asked Helfers what she needs to do to get a stop sign on a particular street? Helfers told her she needed to go to the township for the request and they will then conduct a survey to see if the sign is warranted, which usually takes about 8 months. He added that it is hard to get a stop sign. She mainly wanted one to slow cars down due to the speeding she had noticed.
    - Jan Rychlik asked Helfers who enforces the weight limit notices on the roads? Helfers stated that it’s the county sheriff’s job, and added that he himself actually caught a truck today that was 30,000 lbs over the posted weight that was avoiding the bypass. He called the sheriff and stated it took the sheriff three hours to get out there and do the paperwork.
    - Schuster asked Helfers if he had heard anything about the request for a light on Collins Road? He stated he a call from Attorney McKenna who told him to tell his client “no.”

    Assessor’s Report: Assessor Andrews stated that due to health reasons, since the first of the year he has only been working part-time. He is now feeling better and is able to start getting caught up on the paperwork. He said he is just about ready to start doing the measuring on new homes and permits.
    - The tax records are to be turned in by August 8th. He feels he should be able to turn them in early.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    1. Commission Activity Report – Committee reviewed/action on pending petitions: The board has copies of the planning commission report for review.
    2. Township Land Use Plan – Questionnaire Recap – Noting to report this month.
    3. Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #08-32; Petitioner: Vasilios D. Talidis A1 to A2 – The ZBA unanimously passed this petition. The county board meeting is July 15th. Schuster will send a letter to the county board stating that we have no objections.
      2. Petition #08-31; Petitioners: 1940 LLC/contract purchaser A.P. Schueler Jr. – A1 to E5: Schuster informed the board that the ZBA had a 4/3 vote with no recommendation. It will be on the county board agenda on July 15th. Several objections were given at the ZBA meeting. Schuster sent the letter to the county asking for a ¾ vote.
        - Dahlfors motioned to direct Schuster to draft a letter stating our position on this petition and send it directly to the county board members informing them of our objections along with the information from the zoning meeting. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
      3. Petition #08-13; John & Kristine Benoit – 1 to A1C – Commercial Kennel: Schuster informed the board that the ZBA voted 6-0 against this petition. It will be on the county board agenda on July 15th. Schuster will be sending a copy of the letter we sent to the ZBA to each of the county board members stating our objections. Per our board members request, she will add to the letter Mr. Benoit’s comment from last month’s meeting regarding the fact that if his petition doesn’t pass he plans to still operate the kennel privately without the approval of the county.
      4. Petition #08-21; Shinichi Kawayoke – A2-A2C – indoor/outdoor storage of commercial equipment and a wholesale/retail business (limited): This petition will be voted on by the ZBA on July 22nd. Schuster will send a letter to each ZBA member stating our objections per the board’s recommendation. Schuster will also attend the meeting and speak about the traffic issues regarding this petition.
      5. Petition #08-38; Susan M. Singleton; Request for a variance: Helfers questioned where the proposed building will be located? Schuster stated the property is on top of the hill on Sullivan road and the building will be in front of the house to the east. Dahlfors questioned if the building is proposed for personal use due to the fact that included in the proposed building are two bowling alleys and a swimming pool? Schuster didn’t have that answer at this point. Schuster stated that this particular petition is strictly for a variation and not for the building so it will be going before a hearing officer instead of the ZBA on July 9th. Our planning commission voted to approve the petition for the variance.
        - Dahlfors motioned to direct Schuster to draft a letter stating that we have no problems or objections to the variance, but that we do have questions on the long-term use due to the size and use of the proposed building. Also, add the fact that the petitioner did not attend any meetings to present any information to our planning commission or town board as to what the purpose was going to be of the structure. Knowing the size of the operation, and the fact that a health club is not appropriate in Ag-zoned districts, we are concerned. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
        - Bartman motioned to approve the variance with the points we’re concerned about – 1) the purpose of the building; 2) the petitioner did not present; 3) the compatibility. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
      6. Petition #08-30; Steven & Susan Schmeiding: Request for a variance – This petition is for a change in zoning from E5 to A2 and a CUP for indoor/outdoor storage of commercial equipment. The zoning on that property and the surrounding properties has been verified as requested at last month’s meeting. The request is only for 5 acres east to the pipeline. Schuster informed the board that during the hearing regarding this petition, the petitioner started out by saying he did not run a business there, and by the time they were done with the hearing he had two businesses and he was storing a big truck for a company that he works for, and he “conveniently” forgot to tell the ZBA about that huge truck. He claims he cannot get all the equipment into the building so he needs some outside storage. Included among his equipment is commercial snowplowing equipment.
        - Much discussion took place, including comments from Keith Leidy, neighbor next to the property in the petition, who stated reasons for why the petition should not be approved, including his concern for the affect it will have on surrounding property values. Mr. Schmieding also spoke to the board explaining his reasons for the petition. Schuster questions whether the CUP request fits with the surrounding area.
        - Upon conclusion of the discussion, which contained many mixed thoughts regarding this issue, Mathews motioned to approve the zoning change with the CUP with the condition that all the equipment be stored indoor. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors. Voting no: Schuster. Motion passed with a vote of 3-1 in favor. The petition will be voted on at the ZBA voting meeting scheduled for 7/22/08. Schuster will draft a letter to the ZBA with the recommendation to approve the petition with the condition that all equipment be stored indoor.
    4. Update - Misc. zoning matters:
      1. Merryman Petition - Schuster informed the board that the court date for this petition has been moved to the middle of July 2008.
    Old Business: Information/review/action
    1. Building Project - Decision on Building Bids: Discussion took place regarding the bids opened earlier during tonight’s meeting.
      - Dahlfors motioned to direct Schuster to get the attorney involved and begin to review/develop contractual component with the lowest responsible bidder, Rosemann & Sons, Inc., for the building addition. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Dahlfors. Voting no: Mathews, Schuster. Motion failed.
      - Dahlfors motioned to direct Schuster to get the attorney involved and begin to review/develop contractual component with the lowest responsible bidder, Rosemann & Sons, Inc., for the building addition, with a short term loan being a possibility. Second by Schuster. Voting yes: Dahlfors, Schuster. Voting no: Mathews, Bartman. Motion failed.
      - Dahlfors motioned to postpone the building decision until all the trustees are present. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
      - There will be a possible special meeting on July 14, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. to discuss and make a decision on the building project. Trustees will contact Seemann to let her know if they could attend that meeting, if so, she will notice the special meeting in the newspaper.
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Prevailing Wage Ordinance: – Due to the fact that at the June meeting the board failed to pass the Prevailing Wage Ordinance, Schuster contacted our attorney, the State’s Attorney, and TOI regarding this situation. They all recommended that we pass the ordinance. The board felt they should not be forced to change their vote in order to pass the ordinance. At this point, no further decision was made regarding the ordinance. This issue will be put on the special meeting agenda to be further discussed.
    2. Legislation – TOI Perspective: Nothing to discuss this month.
    3. Audit Committee – We still are in need of three people to audit our books. The audit must be done before October.
    4. Pandemic Flu/Emergency Services Committee – update: Schuster completed the letter with our Pandemic Flu/Emergency Services Plan and gave each board member a copy. She will submit a copy of this letter to the McHenry County Health Department. An example of the cost for the brochures is $1300.00 for 1500 brochures. Let Schuster know if you feel we should purchase them.
    Other:
    - McHenry County Committee of Government (McCog) has invited the township supervisors to sit with the group on this Friday to discuss issues going on around our township. The discussion topic is “How could we better partner and be aware of each other.” In addition, McCog is trying to figure out a better membership dues schedule to join the group. They realize the current $500/yr is too expensive. Schuster is glad they are finally trying to get the smaller entities together.
    - Schuster informed the board that Marengo Township is donating $25,000 toward Pace Bus Services, the City of Marengo is donating $8,000, and the Township of Riley is donating $3,000. This is all being done with the county, who is trying to duplicate Pace. The cost is tremendous to operate this type of service. Schuster questions how they can operate this in McHenry County when Chicago is struggling to keep their’s going. She added that we are already paying for the Pace Bus service in taxes. Schuster feels there is no way Seneca Township could afford to have the Pace Bus and stated that a taxi service could contract with the township on an as needed basis for General Assistance clients. Mathews stated that this issue should be mentioned in the next newsletter.

    Public Speaking: Jan Rychlik voiced her concerns regarding spot zoning. She questioned why we would even consider it. She is upset that our board motioned to recommend approval for the zoning change from E5 to A2 for the Schmeiding Petition. Keith Leidy feels our board was “weak” tonight by “caving in to the guy.”

    Motion to go into Executive Session: At 10:25 p.m. Dahlfors motioned to go into executive session to discuss land acquisition and approve prior executive session minutes. Second by Mathews. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Motion to go back into Open Session: At 10:35 Mathews motioned to go back into open session. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.

    Motion to Adjourn: At 10:37 p.m. Dahlfors motioned to adjourn tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.

    Respectfully Submitted, (with the help of Mike O’Leary)

    Dawn Seemann
    Township Clerk

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    June 10, 2008

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Trustee Michael O’Leary filled in as the Clerk tonight due to Clerk Seemann’s absence.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Rosemary Bartman, Susan Mathews, Thomas Dahlfors, and Michael O’Leary, and Road Commissioner Robert Helfers. Absent Officials: Assessor Donald Andrews & Clerk Dawn Seemann.

    Guests in Attendance: Robert Pope, Scott Swanson, John Benoit, Vasilios (Bill) Talidis, Betty Talidis.

    Public Speaking: None.

    Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the May 13, 2008 Regular Monthly Minutes as presented. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    - Bartman motioned to approve the April 8, 2008 Budget Hearing Minutes. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of May 14, 2008 through June 10, 2008 in the amount of $2,603.13. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund - O’Leary motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of May 14, 2008 through June 10, 2008 in the amount of $14,642.95. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: May 1, 2008 through May 31, 2008, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund: Mathews motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of May 1, 2008 through May 31, 2008. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$24,136.170$0$134.27$24,270.44
    Town Fund$90,915.320$14,151.40$8,052.31$84,816.23
    Road & Bridge$106,106.180$10,100.82$8,363.84$104,369.20
    Permanent Hard Road$95,259.130$7,487.60$5,181.63$92,953.16
    Building & Equipment$32,430.9400$1,323.24$33,754.18

    Prime Fund – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of May 1, 2008 through May 31, 2008. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious BalanceTrans Between FundsExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$75,267.4300$148.20$75,415.63
    Town Fund$265,120.2800$522.02$265,642.30
    Road & Bridge $121,679.9600$239.58$121,919.54
          


    GA Report: Schuster has nothing to report this month.

    Clerk's Report: Seemann is absent. No report.

    Road Commissioner’s Report: Helfers reported that they have been pretty busy due to the recent storms with water and trees all over the roads. There were twelve trees across the roads from the first storm. The next storm brought down four trees into the roads, followed by 1 each the following two nights.
    - Since the detour started on Rt. 176 (a week ago yesterday), people that are living on Kunde Road between North Union and Millstream are very unhappy because people are not following the detour. As of tomorrow because of the flooding. Kunde Road will be closed. He added that the water has washed a lot of gravel off the road.
    - The first mowing program started. It is slow going because of the water. Helfers said he has never seen so many thistles as he’s seen this year.
    - Schuster asked Helfers if there will be any concession to maintain or help repair the township roads due to the bypass? Helfers stated that he called the head engineer in the state of Illinois who has an office in Marengo requesting some more directional signs to prevent people from going down Kunde Road and the reply he received was that Helfers’ signs “are placed according to the blueprint. End of discussion.”

    Assessor’s Report: Assessor Andrews is absent tonight. No report.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    1. Commission Activity Report – Committee reviewed/action on pending petitions: The planning commission met on June 3, 2008 and reviewed old and new petitions. A report was given to the board for review.
    2. Township Land Use Plan – Questionnaire Recap: Schuster asked the board if they would like to put out another newsletter regarding the recap or wait a little while? The board felt it could wait.
    3. Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #08-32 – Vasilios Talidis requests a zoning change on property at 3813 Franklinville Road from A1 to A2 on 5.624 acres: Mr. Talidis spoke to the board informing them that he would like to take the 5.624 acres off of the 80 acres that he owns and give it to his son. Schuster stated that this petition has already been to the McHenry County Zoning Board of Appeals. It will go to the voting meeting on June 24th, which will not be voted on by the county board until possibly the middle or the end of July, it might even go into August, therefore, we don’t have to take action on this until our next meeting. Schuster will put this back on the agenda for next month’s meeting, then forward on the board’s decision to the county board.
      2. Petition #08-31 – petitioners: 1940 LLC/contract purchaser A.P. Schuler Jr. – reclassification from A1 to E5: This petition was passed by the ZBA with a vote of 4 – 3. The Seneca Township Planning Commission, Soil & Water Conservation District, and McHenry County Defenders all voted against this petition. It will possibly be on the county board’s July agenda. Schuster cannot issue the letter for the ¾ vote until we know when the vote on this petition will come.
      3. Petition #08-13 – John & Kristine Benoit – A1 to A1C – Commercial Kennel: Mr. Benoit requested time with the board. He spoke about what he felt was some confusion after the ZBA meeting as to what the petition actually included and what they were asking for. He hopes his explanation will encourage the board to reconsider our decision to deny his request. He explained that they breed and show dogs. He stated that he was told that since this would generate income he needed to file for a commercial CUP, although he was told he could stay private. He elaborated about the size & type of building he’d like to put up and what he planned on doing with it. In addition, he talked about his plans for noise reduction. Upon conclusion of his presentation and discussion, Mathews motioned to stand with the board’s original decision to deny his request. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes to stand with original statement: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
      4. Petition #08-21 – Shinichi Kawayoke – A2 to A2C – indoor/outdoor storage of commercial equipment and a wholesale/retail business (limited): Schuster informed the board that this petition will be voted on by the ZBA on the 24th.
      5. Petition #80-01; #80-02; #80-03; #80-04 – Melvin & Donald Purdom petitions: The ZBA approved these petitions with a 4-3 vote.
    4. Update – Misc. zoning matters:
      1. Merryman Petition – Schuster informed the board that the court date had been moved to July 2008.
    Old Business: Information/review/action
    1. Building Project - Schuster and O’Leary had met with Mr. Rosemann, who had the low bid on the plan. They asked him, and he agreed, to go through and see if there were any other ways to “crunch” the costs on the building project. Schuster hasn’t heard back from him as of tonight’s meeting.
      - Schuster received a letter from ALA (architects) that suggested that we take on the septic issue, and supervision ourselves.
      - After much discussion, Schuster stated that either we accept the fact that the low bid is not such a bad bid after all, or we take the septic line and supervision issue and change that in the specs and rebid it.
      - Schuster suggested talking with Mr. Rosemann to see how much taking the supervision off, but keeping the septic in would decrease the cost.
      - Dahlfors motioned to talk to the low bidder to get a response to deleting the on-site supervision only and the cost difference. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary. Voting no: None. Motion passed. (Refer to the letter from the architect.)
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Prevailing Wage Ordinance:
      Town – Bartman motioned to accept the Prevailing Wage Ordinance for the Town. Second by Dahlfors. Motion failed with a vote of 2 yes and 3 no. Prevailing Wage Ordinance for the Town did not pass.
      Road District – Bartman motioned to accept the Prevailing Wage Ordinance for the Road District. Second by Dahlfors. Motion failed with a vote of 2 yes and 3 no. Prevailing Wage Ordinance for the Road District did not pass.
      - Schuster will contact our lawyer regarding this issue.
    2. Legislation – TOI Perspective: Nothing to discuss this month.
    3. Audit Committee – Schuster informed the board that we need three people from the township to audit our books. If anyone knows of anybody let Seemann know as soon as possible.
    4. Pandemic Flu / Emergency Services Committee – update – Schuster emailed the chairperson of the committee, Marilyn Kelly. We are near the deadline for the final write-up of this plan. Dahlfors is also on the committee. Schuster asked him to check with Marilyn to see how things are coming alone. The paperwork needs to be in by the 16th of June.
    Other:
    - Each year Schuster compiles a wage summary for the Township Supervisors. She gave copies of this information to the board for review.

    Motion to go into Executive Session: At 8:55 p.m. Dahlfors motioned to go into executive session to discuss land acquisition. Second by Mathews. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Motion to go back into Open Session: At 9:15 p.m. Dahlfors motioned to go back into open session. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    - The land acquisition is still in negotiations.

    Motion to Adjourn: At 9:18 p.m. Mathews motioned to adjourn tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.

    Respectfully Submitted, (with the help of Mike O’Leary)

    Dawn Seemann
    Township Clerk

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    May 13, 2008

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Rosemary Bartman, Susan Mathews, Thomas Dahlfors, and Michael O’Leary, Road Commissioner Robert Helfers, and Clerk Dawn Seemann. Absent Officials: Assessor Donald Andrews.

    Guests in Attendance: John Boyd, Jane Collins, Robert Pope, Ed Dolatowski, Jim Phillips, Brett Gieseke.

    Public Speaking: James Phillips voiced his concerns regarding Petition #08-31: petitioners: 1940 LLC/contract purchaser A.P. Schueler Jr. – reclassification A1 – E5. His concern was mainly based on possible water runoff that would affect his property should 10 houses be built on the petitioner’s piece of property adjacent to his property. He feels there should be no less than 5 acres minimum to build a house on.

    Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the April 8, 2008 Regular Monthly Minutes as presented. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    - O’Leary motioned to approve the April 29, 2008 Extra Meeting Minutes as presented. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of April 9, 2008 through May 13, 2008 in the amount of $19,502.53. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund - Dahlfors motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of April 9, 2008 through April 30, 2008 in the amount of $14,816.42. Second by Mathews. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: April 1, 2008 through April 30, 2008, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund: Dahlfors motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of April 1, 2008 through April 30, 2008. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$25,183.320$1,090.00$42.85$24,136.17
    Town Fund$95,384.650$5,530.11$1,060.78$90,915.32
    Road & Bridge$109,679.740$5,299.43$1,725.87$106,106.18
    Permanent Hard Road$95,093.7800$165.35$95,259.13
    Building & Equipment$32,375.8500$55.09$32,430.94

    Prime Fund – Mathews motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of April 1, 2008 through April 30, 2008. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious BalanceTrans Between FundsExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$75,116.8700$150.56$75,267.43
    Town Fund$264,589.9400$530.34$265,120.28
    Road & Bridge $121,436.5600$243.40$121,679.96
          


    GA Report: Schuster stated there are no pending applications. However, an organization out of Chicago is still looking for funded programs to refer people to in McHenry County.

    Clerk's Report: Seemann informed the board that she will not be at the next meeting due to being in New York with the Marengo High School Band.

    Road Commissioner’s Report: Helfers reported that the work on Rt. 176 will begin on June 1st. He was informed that approximately 500 semi loads full of dirt will be needed to raise Rt. 176 five feet. The trucks plan on using our township roads to get the dirt to the designated area. Helfers said our roads are posted at 8000 lbs per axel and he will have law enforcement out there to make sure those trucks do not use our roads.
    - Helfers noticed that a coring company had bored a 5” hole through the asphalt for soil samples on Steig Rd.

    Assessor’s Report: Assessor Andrews is absent tonight. No report.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    1. Commission Activity Report –The board received a report from the Planning Commission regarding the petitions they reviewed and voted on.
    2. Township Land Use Plan – Questionnaire Recap: Copies of the results from the recent survey regarding the residents’ input for the township’s land use plan were given to the board. The board is pleased at the number of surveys that were competed and returned.
    3. Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #08-31 : petitioners: 1940 LLC/contract purchaser A.P. Schueler Jr. – reclassification A1 – E5: Mr. John Boyd, who represented the law firm of Zanck, Coen & Wright. P.C., spoke briefly about the property that A.P. Schueler is looking to purchase and build approximately 10 homes on. He discussed the possibility that of the 98 acres being purchase, 70 acres may be being deeded or donated to the McHenry County Conservation District or Land Conservancy. He also talked about the petitioner’s plans for the remaining acreage. Questions and answers between the board, guests in attendance, and Mr. Boyd were exchanged. Such things as how the river would be affected, parking, easements, flooding, soil, water run-off, and subdivision issues were a few topics of concern.
        - Upon completion of discussion regarding this petition, Mathews motioned to deny this petition request based on the McHenry County Planning & Development and Seneca Township’s Planning Commission reasons, which include but are not limited to 1) very harmful to that area; 2) ecologically sensitive area; 3) homes will add more pollution to the river. Second by Dahlfors, who added that there are still so many further questions. Bartman stated that the lots are in flood planes. O’Leary feels the lots are too small. Mathews feels a subdivision with any size lots does not belong there.
        - Schuster asked the board if they wanted to request the county to invoke the ¾ vote in order for this petition to pass. The consensus to have the ¾ vote was unanimous.
        - The board voted unanimously to deny Petition #08-31. Schuster will draft a letter to the county board stating our recommendation and reasons for the denial.
      2. Petition #08-12; John & Kristine Benoit – A1 to A1C – Commercial Kennel: The petitioner is asking for a CUP to operate a kennel on the property. The property is located ¼ mile east of McCue Road on Rt. 176.
        - Dahlfors motioned to deny this petition request based on multiple reasons, which include, but are not limited to: 1) the surrounding houses are way too close to the petitioner’s property where the kennel is proposed, which will have a significant impact on the neighbors quality of life; 2) will diminish property values; 3) No noise buffers; 4) doesn’t fit with the existing area. Second by Bartman. The board voted unanimously to deny petition #08-12. Schuster will draft a letter to the ZBA.
      3. Petition #08-21; Shinichi Kawayoke – A2 to A2C – indoor/outdoor storage of commercial equipment and a wholesale/retail business (limited). - This property is located on the corner of Rt. 176 and Millstream Rd. and consists of 1.6 acres zoned A2.
        - Bartman voted to deny this petition based on reasons which include but are not limited to: 1) no room for parking; 2) no room for commercial storage; 3) only one way in or out – not a safe place for a business; 4) not a farming business – the Koi are not farmed there, they are imported from Japan. Second by Dahlfors. The board unanimously voted to deny petition #08-21. Schuster will draft a letter to the ZBA.
      4. Petition #80-01; #80-02; #80-03; #80-04 – Melvin & Donald Purdon petitions: The McHenry County ZBA voted to approve this petition. It is possible it will be on the county board agenda on the 21st of May.
    4. Update – Misc. zoning matters:
      1. Merryman Petition – The court date was moved to May 30, 2008. They are waiting for results from another petition in the Appellate courts before ruling on this petition.
    5. McHenry County 2030 Land Use Planning:
      1. Resolution – Township position on development: Schuster presented and read aloud a proposed resolution stating the township residents’ position on development for the county based on the survey results.
        - Bartman motioned to table this until the next meeting. Second by O’Leary. Motion failed with a roll call vote of 2 in favor, 3 against.
        Dahlfors motioned to approve the resolution. Second by Mathews. Motion passed with a roll call vote of 3-2 in favor. Schuster will send our approved Resolution to the Regional Planning Commission.
    Old Business: Information/review/action
    1. Building Project – Decision on Building Bids: The low bid was $341,213 given by Rosemann & Sons. Schuster had spoke with our attorney and informed the board of the attorney’s recommendations. In addition, the two bids that were received without a bid bond cannot be considered. By law they must have a bid bond. Following discussion, Dahlfors motioned stating, “Having identified Rosemann & Sons as the lowest bidder, we, the township board of trustees direct and authorize Supervisor Schuster and Trustee O’Leary to enter into negotiations with this contractor; Further, that the board directs Supervisor Schuster to engage the township attorney and the architects in these negotiations as needed.” Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Legislation – TOI Perspective – Nothing to discuss this month.
    2. Pandemic Flu/Emergency Services Committee – Update Nothing new to discuss this month.
    Other:
    - TOIPAC sent a letter asking for personal donations.
    - Schuster asked the board if they would like a new Laws & Duties manual? They all agreed that one copy of the manual should be sufficient. Schuster will order one copy.

    Motion to go into Executive Session: At 10:06 p.m. Schuster motioned to go into executive session to discuss land acquisition. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.

    Motion to go back into Open Session: At 10:38 p.m. O’Leary motioned to go back into open session. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    - Dahlfors motioned to direct Schuster to initiate the real estate contract for the purchase of property contiguous to the township building. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    - Dahlfors motioned to direct Schuster to issue $1,000 earnest money for the real estate. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Motion to Adjourn: At 10:45 p.m. O’Leary motioned to adjourn tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.

    Respectfully Submitted,

    Dawn Seemann
    Township Clerk

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    April 8, 2008

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 6:20 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Rosemary Bartman, Susan Mathews, Thomas Dahlfors, and Michael O’Leary, Road Commissioner Robert Helfers, and Clerk Dawn Seemann. Absent Officials: Assessor Donald Andrews.

    Guests in Attendance: Susan Borucki, Iris Hensley, Howard Hensley, Vernon Holm, Jeanne Holm, Jim Kelly, Marilyn Kelly, and Gina Lefevour.

    Motion to Recess the Meeting: After the board finished signing off on the proposed bills, Bartman motioned to recess this meeting at 6:59 p.m. and resume upon adjournment of the Annual Town Meeting. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.

    Motion to Resume the Meeting: At 8:48 p.m. Dahlfors motioned to resume tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.

    Public Speaking: None.

    Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the March 11, 2008 Regular Monthly Minutes as presented. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District – O’Leary motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of March 12, 2008 through March 31, 2008 in the amount of $10,439.78. Second by Mathews. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of March 12, 2008 through March 31, 2008 in the amount of $9,065.50. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: March 1, 2008 through March 31, 2008, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund: O’Leary motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of March 1, 2008 through March 31, 2008. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$25,139.9400$43.38$25,183.32
    Town Fund$118,996.080$25,062.93$1,451.68$95,384.83
    Road & Bridge$117,552.560$8,880.36$1,007.54$109,679.74
    Permanent Hard Road$101,874.460$6,954.71$174.03$95,093.78
    Building & Equipment$32,320.0800$55.77$32,375.85

    Prime Fund –Mathews motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of March 1, 2008 through March 31, 2008. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious BalanceTrans Between FundsExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$74,935.6400$181.23$75,116.87
    Town Fund$263,951.5600$638.38$264,589.94
    Road & Bridge $121,143.5700$292.99$121,436.56
          

    - Line Item Transfers:
    - Road & Bridge:
    1. $50.00 from line item #3440 Contingency to line item #3160 Postage;
    2. $40.00 from line item #3440 Contingency to line item #3161 Publishing.

    - Town Fund:
    1. $700.00 from line item #1240 Contingency to line item #220 taxes/Fica/State/Medical;
    2. $1000.00 from line item #1240 Contingency to line item #1178 Utility;
    3. $50.00 from line item #1240 Contingency to line item #1170 Association Dues;
    4. $100.00 from line item #1240 Contingency to line item #1115 IMRF Expense;
    5. $4000.00 from line item #1240 Contingency to line item #1105 Salary Expense.

    Mathews motioned to approve the above line item transfers. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    GA Report: Schuster informed the board that an organization out of Chicago contacted her asking all McHenry County townships to fill out a survey asking how we could provide services to them. No action will be taken.

    Clerk’s Report: Seemann obtained some booklets called “When Disaster Strikes” that included information about Homeland Security, and what to do in certain disasters. They were made available to those who were interested. She will try to get additional copies.

    Road Commissioner’s Report: Helfers reported that earlier this year he received an estimate for this year’s blacktopping program of $163,000 for 3-1/2 miles of road. The actual bid came in at $149,500.
    - Helfers was informed that the bridge on Highbridge Road needed a new bridge deck. He received a quote of $40,000 - $60,000 for this repair work. He contacted the county about an alternative method to repair the bridge. He received one bid of $14,000 for this alternative method. He is waiting for 2 additional bids.
    - Currently, Helfers and his crew are picking up garbage along the right-of-ways. He stated there is enough litter on the right-of-ways to fill a 60 gallon bag in less than a mile of road.

    Assessor’s Report: Assessor Andrews is absent tonight. No report.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    1. Commission Activity Report – Committee review/action on pending petitions: The Planning Commission met last Tuesday. No report was given to our board.
    2. Township Land Use Plan – Questionaire Recap – Schuster was happy with the number of surveys that were returned. She will pass on the results to the Planning Commission.
    3. Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #80-01, #80-02, #80-03, #80-04 – Melvin & Donald Purdon petitions: The ZBA voted to approve this petition. It will be going to the County Board next Tuesday.
    4. Update – Misc. zoning matters: The Kunde Road petition ZBA hearing will be held on May 1st.
    5. McHenry County 2030 Land Use Planning – Schuster encouraged the board to become involved with the county land use planning by attending more county meetings.
    Old Business: Information/review/action
    1. Building Project– update The companies who are interested in bidding on the township addition had their mandatory walk-though today.
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Legislation – TOI Perspective – Nothing to discuss this month.
    2. Pandemic Flu/Emergency Services Committee – Update – The draft emergency plan and presentation were given at the Annual Town Meeting, which took place just prior to this meeting tonight.
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Legislation – TOI Perspective – Nothing to discuss this month.
    2. Pandemic Flu/Emergency Services Committee – Update A letter from Jack Franks was emailed to Township Officials regarding the bills he is working on that will benefit townships if passed.
      - Schuster gave copies of the Woodstock Land Use Plan update to the board for their records.

      Motion to go into Executive Session: At 9:17 Dahlfors motioned to go into executive session to discuss land acquisition. Second by Mathews. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

      Motion to go back into Open Session: At 9:45 p.m. Dahlfors motioned to go back into open session. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.

      Approval of Executive Session Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve and release the 6/13/06 and 11/10/06 executive session minutes. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.

      Land Acquisition: Mathews motioned to direct Helfers and Schuster to look into the land acquisition proposal and get information on the flood plane, price of remaining property per acre, and do other preliminary work prior to making a proposal for the acquisition of the 1.79 acres. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

      Motion to Adjourn: At 9:51 p.m. O’Leary motioned to adjourn tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.

      Respectfully Submitted,

      Dawn Seemann
      Township Clerk

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    March 11, 2008

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Thomas Dahlfors and Michael O’Leary, Road Commissioner Robert Helfers, Assessor Donald Andrews, and Clerk Dawn Seemann. Absent Officials: Trustees Rosemary Bartman and Susan Mathews.

    Guests in Attendance: Robert Pope, Art & Patti Schueler, Tom Zanck, Roy Kunz, Paul Lawrin, and Kim Watts.

    Public Speaking: Paul Lawrin voiced his opinion regarding the Bockman Road parcel (Purdom petition). He stated he doesn’t have a problem with the petition, but is concerned about the property behind it and what will be done with it in the future. He questions the future plans with regards to possible development and water issues. He stated that, “He just wants to know what is actually going on and doesn’t want to be misled.”
    - Roy Kunz also spoke about the Purdom petition stating that he doesn’t have a problem with it either, but does question why there is a 90 foot easement running between the parcels. He’s worried it could become a “superhighway.”

    Approval of Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the February 12, 2008 regular monthly minutes as presented. Second by O’Leary. Helfers amended the minutes on page two under the Road Commissioner’s Report by correcting the accounts the funds were transferred from and to. Dahlfors approved the minutes with amendment. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.
    - O’Leary motioned to approve the January 24, 2008 Special Meeting Minutes as presented. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District - O’Leary motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of February 13, 2008 through March 11, 2008 in the amount of $10,752.12. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund– Dahlfors motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of February 13, 2008 through March 11, 2008 in the amount $20,730.27. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: February 1, 2008 through February 29, 2008, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund– O’Leary motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of February 1, 2008 through February 29, 2008. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$25,088.4000$51.54$25,139.94
    Town Fund$124,996.080$6,258.63$258.63$118,996.08
    Road & Bridge$122,166.340$8,364.19$3,750.41$117,552.56
    Permanent Hard Road$102,916.500$1,252.62$210.58$101,874.46
    Building & Equipment$32,253.8100$66.27$32,320.08

    Prime Fund –Dahlfors motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of February 1, 2008 though February 29, 2008. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious BalanceTrans Between FundsExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$74,738.7800$196.86$74,935.64
    Town Fund$263,258.1400$693.42$263,951.56
    Road & Bridge $120,825.3200$318.25$121,143.57
          

    - Prime Fund Transfers: Dahlfors motioned to approve the transfer of $55,201.31 from the Road District Road & Bridge fund to the Permanent Hard Road fund. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    - O’Leary motioned to approve the transfer of $21,980.73 from the Road District Building & Equipment fund to the Permanent Hard Road fund. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    - The transfer of funds from the Town Fund to the Building Fund was postponed until the next meeting.

    General Assistance: Schuster reported that she has another case but no decision has been made.

    Clerk’s Report: Seemann informed the board that the Economic Interest Statements were mailed on 3/7/08 and everyone should be receiving them soon if they haven’t already. They must be filled out and mailed back the county clerk by May 1st to avoid a fine.

    Road Commissioner’s Report: Helfers stated that he was glad to see the warmer weather.
    - The salt order for 2008-2009 was placed. Helfers ordered 500 ton last year and the same amount was ordered this year. He is planning on going back to the sand/salt 1:1 ratio. This will give us approximately 1000 ton of product to treat the ice and snow with. Helfers added that we went through approximately 1200 ton of salt this year. Last year the sand cost was approximately $4.00/ton and salt had the cost of approximately $50.00/ton. Helfers said this year’s salt bid won’t be known until the fall. - The blacktop program has begun. Helfers stated he has been made aware that the bridge on Highbridge Road needs to be repaired. He was given an approximate cost of $40,000 to $60,000 to repair the bridge.
    - The roads were posted today.
    - Helfers informed the board that the roads are the roughest he’s ever seen. This is due to the amount of frost that is under them.
    - Schuster responded to a letter she received from Attorney Terrance McKenna regarding a Seneca Township resident wanting to install a streetlight at the intersection of Deerpass and Collins Roads at the resident’s expense. The letter stated the township’s denial of such a request for liability reasons.

    Assessor’s Report: Assessor Andrews stated that he is keeping up with the correspondent permits. He informed the board that he wasn’t able to do any measuring due to health reasons, but stated that he feels he is not that far behind.
    - Schuster offered the suggestion to him that should he feel the need, he should ask for help with the Assessor duties.
    Andrews stated he will get a copy of the certificate required by the state for Clerk Seemann to put on file.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    1. Commission Activity Report – Committee review/action on pending petitions: The committee had no pending petitions to review.
    2. Attorney Tom Zanck – Request to address the board regarding potential zoning petition: Schuster explained to the petitioners and Attorney Zanck that because no petition has been brought before the board, we will only be able to listen. No consensus could be made at tonight’s meeting. Attorney Zanck then proceeded to speak on behalf of Art & Patti Schueler regarding their contract to purchase land to which they would like to rezone to E5 Estate and build 12 homes on. Eleven of the lots will be 1-2 acres, and the other lot will be 5 acres. The McHenry County Defenders were also invited to input their opinions/suggestions regarding this issue. It was noted that under the conservation design concept of the subdivision ordinance the petitioners must allocate 70% of their property as open space. Attorney Zanck stated that approximately only 30 acres of this land is buildable. The rest is wetland/flood plane. Upon completion of his presentation, Attorney Zanck stated the reason for coming to our meeting tonight was as a “courtesy” so we could have a heads up as to what the petitioners are planning to do prior to taking out a petition. He feels they should be filing a petition within 10 days. The Seneca Township Planning Commission will receive the information regarding the petition when it is available.
    3. Township Land Use Plan – Nothing to report this month.
    4. Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #07-50 – Rick Bellairs – Menge Rd. Property – A1 to E5 Estate – This petition has been withdrawn from the ZBA agenda.
      2. Petition #07-? – Sam & Cindy Romano – Garden Valley Rd. A1 to A1C – The county board unanimously approved this petition with a 15-year conditional use permit.
      3. Petition #80-01; #80-02; #80-03; #80-04 – Melvin & Donald Purdon petitions – The ZBA voting meeting for these petitions will be on March 25th at 9:00 a.m.
    5. Update – Misc. Zoning Matters: Nothing this month.
    Old Business: Information/review/action
    1. Building Project– update The board reviewed the final plans. A few additional changes were suggested. Schuster noted these changes and will bring them to the architect’s attention. Dahlfors motioned to accept the plan as presented with the changes discussed, review paperwork with the attorney, and engage ALA to move forward with the bid package. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting none: Motion passed.
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Legislation – TOI Perspective Nothing to discuss this month.
    2. Pandemic Flu/Emergency Services Committee – update: Schuster stated that she had submitted the draft copy of our Pandemic Flu/Emergency Plan to the county.
      - Schuster and the committee continue to work on the plan.
      - A presentation of the plan will be held at the Annual Town Meeting by the Health Department.
      - Schuster feels it is necessary to get another newsletter out prior to the Annual Town Meeting that will include information about the Pandemic Flu presentation.
    3. Annual Town Meeting Agenda – review & adopt: O’Leary motioned to accept the Annual Town Meeting agenda. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
    Public Speaking: Roy Kunz offered to volunteer his services to the township if needed on Saturday afternoons.
    - Paul Lawrin informed the board that he does pressure washing and will offer this service to the township if we ever need anything pressure washed. He also again stated his opinions about the Purdom property saying he feels like they are being misled. He is worried about flooding if a subdivision goes in on that property.

    Other:
    - Schuster received a letter from McHenry County Water Resource Manager, Cassandra McKinney. They are looking for government property to place water wells so they could monitor such things as the quality and quantity of water, etc. Schuster would like the board to think about putting a well on the town hall property.
    - Schuster informed the board that once again there is legislation being proposed to abolish townships. If it passes, it would take a ¾ vote from the registered township voters to pass and abolish the township.

    Motion to Adjourn: At 8:31 p.m. O’Leary motioned to adjourn tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.

    Respectfully Submitted,

    Dawn Seemann
    Township Clerk

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    February 12, 2008

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Rosemary Bartman, Susan Mathews, Thomas Dahlfors, Michael O’Leary, Road Commissioner Robert Helfers, and Clerk Dawn Seemann. Absent Officials: Assessor Donald Andrews.

    Guests in Attendance: Don & Sharon Purdom, Robert Pope, Tom Zanck, and Mary McCann.

    Public Speaking: None.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    As a courtesy to the petitioners and their attorney, Schuster asked the board if they minded moving item b letter “i” under Planning Commission up in the agenda and addressing the issue at this point? Dahlfors motioned to approve moving item “i” up on the agenda. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.
    1. New petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #80-01, #80-02; #80-03; and #80-04 – Melvin & Donald Purdom Petitions - Attorney Tom Zanck, representing the Purdoms, explained to the board what the petitioners are asking for and the reasoning behind it. He described the four 5.68 acre parcels that the petitioners would like to rezone from A-1 to A-2 in order to build a home on each parcel. Attorney Zanck used posters to help show the locations of the four parcels on the existing property. Following the presentation, Schuster stated that the board would resume the agenda as planned, and the petitioners were welcome to stay if they chose.
    Approval of Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the January 8, 2008 Regular Monthly Minutes as presented. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.
    - Approval of the January 24, 2008 Special Meeting Minutes was postponed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District - O’Leary motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of January 9, 2008 through February 12, 2008 in the amount of $9,591.26. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund– Dahlfors motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of January 9, 2008 through February 12, 2008 in the amount of $17,010.83. Second by Mathews. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: January 1, 2008 through January 31, 2008, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund– O’Leary motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of January 1, 2008 through January 31, 2008. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$24,990.2700$98.13$25,088.40
    Town Fund$137,832.890$15,982.02$3,145.21$124,996.08
    Road & Bridge$134,596.970$15,038.75$2,608.12$122,166.34
    Permanent Hard Road$105,765.520$4,652.08$1,803.06$102,916.50
    Building & Equipment$31,784.1500$469.66$32,253.81

    Prime Fund – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of January 1, 2008 through January 31, 2008. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious BalanceTrans Between FundsExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$74,473.9600$264.82$74,738.78
    Town Fund$262,325.3400$932.80$263,258.14
    Road & Bridge $120,397.2000$428.12$120,825.32
          
    General Assistance: Schuster has nothing to report this month.

    Clerk’s Report: Seemann informed the board that she attended the Marengo Community High School Board of Education meeting on January 14, 2008. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss participation between Seneca Township and the high school as part of the Pandemic Flu planning process. At that meeting the school board approved the use of the high school as an emergency shelter for Seneca Township residents.

    Road Commissioner’s Report: Helfers stated that we are about out of salt. The problem is because of the high demand the salt is not readily available. The cost per ton has gone from $40/ton when we first purchased it for this winter to $140-$150/ton. Helfers feels this is outrageous and will not pay that. He will mix Birdseye with the remaining salt we have for as long as he can. After which, he’ll just be spreading sand on the roads for traction. The estimated cost for fuel alone every time the plows go out is approximately $250-$300.
    - The roads are getting rough due to the frost underneath the roads.
    - Helfers received a quote for blacktopping 4 miles of road of $370,000. The prep work and shouldering is done by our own township crew. This year just over 2 miles of road will be blacktopped at a cost of approximately $165,000.
    - Helfers stated that with the cost of blacktopping, salt, etc. going up, he’ll have no choice but to transfer funds from the Road & Bridge Fund and Building & Equipment funds in the township’s Prime Fund account into the Road District’s Permanent Hard Road fund to cover these costs. This will force a major tax increase in 2009 for the Road District.

    Assessor’s Report: Assessor Andrews is absent tonight. No report.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    1. Commission Activity Report – Committee review/action on pending petitions: The Purdom petitions were discussed.
    2. New Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #80-01; #80-02; #80-03, #80-04 – Melvin & Donald Purdom petitions: (Continued):
        After further discussion regarding these petitions, Dahlfors motioned to approve the request for rezoning of these parcels. Second by Bartman. More discussion took place. After which, a roll call vote was taken: Voting yes to approve the request for rezoning: Dahlfors and Bartman. Voting no: O’Leary, Mathews, and Schuster. Motion failed.
        - O’Leary motioned to deny the request for rezoning and directed Supervisor Schuster to draft a letter to the ZBA based on the points as outlined during the discussion. Second by Mathews. Voting yes to deny the request for rezoning: O’Leary, Mathews, Schuster. Voting no: Dahlfors and Bartman. Motion passed to deny the petition.
      2. Petition #07-50 – Rick Bellairs – Menge Rd. property – A1 to E5 estate: This petition was withdrawn from the ZBA agenda.
      3. Petition #07-? – Sam & Cindy Romano – Garden Valley Road – A1 to A1-C: The ZBA voted to approve the petition. Schuster gave copies of the transcript from the voting meeting to the board for their records.
    3. Update – Misc. zoning matters: Nothing this month.
    4. Township Land Use Plan – Questionnaire Recap: Schuster reported that approximately 80 to 90 questionnaires were completed and returned to her. She has started to lay out a grid to record the feedback. She is hoping to have the results ready for our next meeting.
    Old Business: Information/review/action
    1. Building Project– update Schuster & O’Leary met with ALA yesterday. They discussed the changes that were discussed at the January Special Meeting. The preliminary drawings should be done by the end of next week. Helfers feels an onsite inspection of the roof while there is snow on it is important to show how the proposed roof line won’t work.
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Legislation – TOI Perspective Nothing to discuss this month.
    2. Town Budget 2008/2009 – Place on Display: Dahlfors motioned to accept and place on display the 2008/2009 Town Fund Budget as of March 7, 2008 to be approved at the April 8, 2008 Budget Hearing meeting at 6:00 p.m. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.
    3. Road District Budget 2008/2009 – Place on Display: Dahlfors motioned to accept and place on display the 2008/2009 Road District Budget as of March 7, 2008 to be approved at the April 8, 2008 Budget Hearing meeting at 6:15 p.m. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.
    4. Pandemic Flu/Emergency Services Committee – Update: The committee will meet tomorrow night. Schuster started the work on the draft crisis plan. She also contacted the county to get an extension on the January 31st deadline. She asked the board if it was okay for her to send the completed draft plan to the county without the board seeing it first? They okayed her sending the plan to the county since it was only a draft.
    Other:
    - Schuster reminded the board about the Education Seminar TOI is hosting in Rockford on April 18th. All four trustees and Schuster plan on attending this seminar.

    Motion to Adjourn: At 9:55 p.m. O’Leary motioned to adjourn tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.

    Respectfully Submitted,

    Dawn Seemann
    Township Clerk

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    January 8, 2008

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Rosemary Bartman, Susan Mathews, Thomas Dahlfors, Michael O’Leary, Assessor Donald Andrews, and Clerk Dawn Seemann. Absent Officials: Road Commissioner Robert Helfers.

    Guests in Attendance: Robert Pope, Norb Ziemer, Marilyn Kelly.

    Public Speaking: None.

    Approval of Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the December 11, 2007 Regular Monthly Minutes as presented. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    - Dahlfors motioned to approve the December 18, 2007 Special Meeting Minutes as presented. Second by O’Leary. Minutes amended to show names of those who made motions. O’Leary motioned to approve the minutes as amended. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District - Dahlfors motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of December 12, 2007 through January 8, 2008 in the amount of $19,761.61. Second by Bartman. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund– Dahlfors motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of December 12, 2007 through January 8, 2008 in the amount of $5,283.52. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: December 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund– Mathews motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of December 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$24,896.1100$94.16$24,990.27
    Town Fund$141,593.850$5,518.50$1,757.54$137,832.89
    Road & Bridge$154,244.220$22,596.93$2,949.68$134,596.97
    Permanent Hard Road$104,725.2500$1,040.27$105,765.52
    Building & Equipment$32,029.810$525.00$279.34$31,784.15

    Prime Fund – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of December 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious BalanceTrans Between FundsExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$74,186.9000$287.06$74,473.96
    Town Fund$261,314.1900$1,011.15$262,325.34
    Road & Bridge $119,933.1200$464.08$120,397.20
          
    General Assistance: Schuster informed the board that the township may have to pay on another case. She stated she may have to talk to our lawyer about this one.
    - Schuster attended a meeting regarding Cook County asking for payment from townships for prescription drug services provided to McHenry County residents. It was determined that this is not an issue, as reimbursement of charges for prescription drug and medical services are not allowed unless a client is approved for General Assistance prior obtaining the services.

    Clerk’s Report: Seemann informed the board to keep an eye out for the Economic Interest Statements to arrive in the mail.

    Road Commissioner’s Report: Commissioner Helfers is absent tonight. No report.

    Assessor’s Report: Assessor Andrews reported that once again he was the first Township Assessor to get his tax assessments to the county.
    - Andrews went through his records and found that he sent back 260 faxes to real estate people. Some of those consist of about a half-dozen requests on one sheet, others had only two. He stated the township had 212 building permits, not all of them were for single family residents. In 2007 the township had 58 sales. In 2006 there were 71. In 2005 there were 81. The sales have steadily gone down hill, but between 2006 and 2007the prices didn’t really go down.
    - Andrews has signed up for one of two required courses through the Illinois Department of Revenue. He was unable to put two classes together as normal to save money. Currently, Assessor Andrews has taken all of the courses available through the Illinois Department of Revenue. As a result, he stated he is forced to sign up for the other class at a later date. He had been taking the courses for ten years, 2 per year as required by law, and because you can’t repeat any courses already taken, this limits the number of courses he could take at no charge.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    1. Commission Activity Report – Committee review/action on pending petitions: No activity this month. The meeting was cancelled.
    2. New Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #80-01; #80-02; #80-03, #80-04 – Melvin & Donald Purdom petitions: We have not received a notice of the hearing yet. The only information we have is what was on the county’s ZBA website. The board has copies of the four petitions and the plats showing what the petitioners are proposing, which is to allow them to build on those parcels. Schuster suggested postponing this and not take any action, and write to the ZBA asking them if we could enter a statement prior to their vote. More information is needed. There are questions that the board needs answers to prior to making any sort of a decision regarding the petitions. Seneca Township Planning Commission member Bob Pope will attend the ZBA meeting on January 30th regarding these petitions.
        - After discussion, Dahlfors motioned to direct Schuster to draft a letter to the ZBA asking them to hold off on voting until we could get more information for the reasoning for this request. Second by O’Leary. Motion passed.
      2. Petition #07-50 Rick Bellairs – Menge Property – A1 to E5 estate: There is another continuance on this petition. The next hearing is scheduled to take place on 1/16/08.
      3. Petition #07-? – Sam & Cindy Romano – Garden Valley Road – A1-A1C: This petition goes to the ZBA voting meeting on the 22nd of this month.
    3. Update – Misc. zoning matters:
      1. On February 7th, the Merryman petition will be before the court at the county building.
    4. Township Land Use Plan: Newsletters will go out tomorrow with a questionnaire for the residents to compete and return regarding their opinions/ideas for Seneca Township’s future land use plan.
    Old Business: Information/review/action
    1. Building Project– update Schuster let the board know that she had talked to the architect about the proposed revisions to the building addition plans and they will do what needs to be done for us to get this project accomplished when we are ready. Schuster suggested that we write a new bid letter, amend the bid packet to specify the changes, and get the rebidding started. She added that the attorney was agreeable on this. During a prior meeting it was discussed that perhaps we could eliminate the bid bond. The attorney said that by law we must have a bid bond.
      - The board has decided that this is the last time we will get bids on the addition. If the bids come in and we don’t agree with them, the proposed building project will be ended.
      - Schuster will contact the architect to find out if he will do the rewrite of the bid. She will then get it back to our attorney for review, then get it out for rebidding.
      - Dahlfors motioned to go ahead with the bid letter and bid packet, and engage the architects and attorney to proceed with the rebid process. They will get the notice out, setup the pre-bid meeting, and go from there. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Legislation – TOI Perspective Nothing to discuss this month.
    2. Pandemic Flu / Emergency Services Committee – At this point we have two residents who have volunteered to be on the committee. We still need three more. Schuster has given them the materials needed to begin setting up the township emergency plan. Seemann and Dahlfors said they would be willing to sit on the committee if necessary. Schuster will check into this to see if that is allowed. She will also write to the McHenry County Health Department to see if we could get an extension for the draft plan, which is due January 31, 2008. Seemann will check with the Marengo Community High School about getting approval to use the school for an emergency shelter for Seneca Township residents if the need should arise. The presentation of the proposed emergency plan will be presented at the annual town meeting in April.


    Motion to Adjourn: At 8:17 p.m. Bartman motioned to adjourn tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.

    Respectfully Submitted,

    Dawn Seemann
    Township Clerk

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    December 11, 2007

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Rosemary Bartman, Susan Mathews, and Thomas Dahlfors, Road Commissioner Robert Helfers, and Clerk Dawn Seemann. Absent Officials: Assessor Donald Andrews and Trustee Michael O’Leary.

    Guests in Attendance: Norbert Ziemer, Teresa Schroeder, Brian Schroeder.

    Public Speaking: None.

    Approval of Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the November 13, 2007 Regular Monthly minutes as presented. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    - Dahlfors motioned to approve the November 13, 2007 Town Fund Budget Amendment Hearing minutes as presented. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District - Bartman motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of November 14, 2007 through December 11, 2007 in the amount of $21,288.27. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund - Bartman motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of November 14, 2007 through December 11, 2007 in the amount of $5,917.11. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: November 1, 2007 through November 30, 2007, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund – Mathews motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of November 1, 2007 through November 30, 2007. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$24,791.4800$104.63$24,896.11
    Town Fund$145,448.370$5,918.88$2,064.36$141,593.85
    Road & Bridge$155,650.310$3,891.24$2,485.15$154,244.22
    Permanent Hard Road$131,313.380$27,596.56$1,008.43$104,725.25
    Building & Equipment$31,638.0400$391.77$32,029.81

    Prime Fund – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of November 1, 2007 through November 30, 2007. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious BalanceTrans Between FundsExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$73,900.5900$286.31$74,186.90
    Town Fund$260,305.7000$1,008.49$261,314.19
    Road & Bridge $119,470.2600$462.86$119,933.12
          
    General Assistance: McHenry County Board Chairman Ken Koehler received a letter from Cook County Hospital stating that they are looking for reimbursement for prescription services they have provided to McHenry County residents. The townships, as is the case, will continue to accept applications from all residents who wish to request assistance. Schuster added that there is a huge potential that the townships may need to help cover prescription drug costs.

    Clerk’s Report: Seemann has nothing to report.

    Road Commissioner’s Report: Helfers stated that to date one-third of the township’s salt supply has already been used. He added that he will be leaving tonight’s meeting by 8:00 p.m. to go salt the roads again. Another 10 semi loads of salt were ordered today.

    Assessor’s Report: Assessor Andrews is absent tonight. No report.

    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    1. Commission Activity Report – Committee review/action on pending petitions – The Planning commission did not meet this month.
    2. New Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
      1. Petition #07-50 – Rick Bellairs – Menge Rd. property – A1 to E5 estate – The ZBA hearing for this petition has been rescheduled for January 2008.
      2. Petition #07-? – Sam & Cindy Romano – Garden Valley Road – A1 to A1C – The ZBA hearing for this petition is tomorrow afternoon.
    3. Update Misc. Zoning Matters – The court case regarding the Merryman petition is scheduled for February 7, 2008. Information was given to the board. The reason for the court case is that the petitioner is trying to have the judge overturn the county board’s decision to deny.
    4. Review Township Land Use Plan – A questionnaire will be sent out in the next township newsletter.
    Old Business: Information/review/action
    1. Building Project– update Information packets were given to the board. Schuster delivered the information to ALA that was discussed at last month’s meeting. She added that we are ready to get the permits and move forward with the project once we have and accept the final bid for the addition.
      - Dahlfors suggested calling a special meeting specifically to discuss the building addition and specs. The other board members agreed. The meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. on December 18, 2007 at the Seneca Township Building. Seemann will notice this meeting in the paper.
    2. Road District Levy – Bartman motioned to approve the Road District Levy for the 2007 tax year for taxes to be collected in 2008 in the amount of $234,918 in tax revenues. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    3. Town Levy – Bartman motioned to approve the Town Fund Levy for the 2007 tax year for taxes to be collected in 2008 in the amount of $157,500 in tax revenues. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    New Business: Information/review/action
    1. Legislation – TOI Perspective Nothing to discuss this month.
    2. Pandemic Flu / Emergency Services Committee – Schuster informed the board and guests that a committee needs to be set up for emergency services, and a Pandemic Flu plan. The committee is to consist of 5 members. Seneca Township resident Norbert Ziemer has kindly volunteered to be on the committee. Four more members are needed. A draft plan needs to be in place by January 31, 2008. Schuster explained that a sample plan has been provided on a cd. The only thing that really needs to be done is inputting names and other information onto a computer, and getting the word out to the residents of Seneca Township via a town meeting that there is an emergency plan in place and informing them how to prepare and what to do in case of emergencies. The public meeting must be held by May. It was suggested that the meeting could be combined with the Township’s Annual Town Meeting in April. Schuster would like suggestions for any possible volunteers who might be interested in being part of this committee.
    Other: Information/review/action
    - A Prevailing Wage letter was given to the board.
    - Schuster is still waiting to hear back from the Village of Union regarding the flooding issues.
    - A letter was received from the State of Illinois regarding Federal funds that are available to assist with the last storm and flooding. These are low interest loans.
    - The no smoking law takes affect on January 1, 2008.
    - The McHenry County Council of Governments (McCog) is dropping the cost of dues. The group is looking for township input. Schuster stated she is interested in becoming a member, but not at $500 per year.
    - The McHenry County 2030 planning process goals were given to the board for review and discussion.
    - Schuster asked the board if they would like to send a letter to the McHenry County 2030 Planning Process Committee reiterating our position on agriculture and water usage? They agreed it would be an excellent idea. Schuster would like them to suggest their ideas for her to convey, and will draft a letter accordingly.
    - A survey letter to the residents regarding the future growth of Seneca Township will be sent with the next township newsletter. Schuster would like additional suggestions for questions to include on the survey. Her goal is to send the newsletter out right after Christmas.

    Public Speaking: Norbert Ziemer spoke about his concern about the water issue and would like us to keep on top of this.

    Motion to Adjourn: At 8:22 p.m. Dahlfors motioned to adjourn tonight’s regular monthly meeting. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.

    Respectfully Submitted,

    Dawn Seemann
    Township Clerk

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    November 13, 2007

    The regular monthly meeting of the Seneca Township Board of Trustee was called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Supervisor Ersel Schuster at the Seneca Township Building located at 16506 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Illinois.

    Pledge of Allegiance

    Township Officials in Attendance: Supervisor Ersel Schuster, Trustees Rosemary Bartman, Susan Mathews, Thomas Dahlfors, and Michael O’Leary, Road Commissioner Robert Helfers,Assessor Donald Andrews,and Clerk Dawn Seemann. Absent Officials: None.

    Guests in Attendance: James Kelly, Marilyn Kelly, Cindy & Sam Romano, Norbert Ziemer, Robert Pope, Rebecca Lee, Larry Ellis, Jan Hervert, Rob Rosemann.

    Public Speaking: Rob Rosemann presented a contractors statement to the board on behalf of Rosemann Sons, Inc. He also gave some suggestions as to how to save money on the addition. Schuster asked him to put his suggestions into writing then send them to us so we could submit it to the architect.
    - Larry Ellis presented written suggestions with costs for our building addition that may help reduce the cost. In addition, he made notes on the floor plan itself.
    Planning Commission: - Information/review/action
    (This was moved up in the agenda due to a guest speaker)
      C. New Petitions to be considered for action and/or review by the town board:
        Petition #07-? – Sam & Cindy Romano – Garden Valley Rd. – A1 to A1-C: Rebecca Lee, the attorney representing the petitioner, spoke on behalf of the Romano’s. Material regarding this petition was given to the board members prior to the meeting for their review. The Seneca Township Planning Commission voted to approve this petition. Schuster explained that the petition is for a Conditional Use Permit request on a business that has been operating for sometime without a permit and the property owner is now requesting the CUP so they can operate legally. Schuster read aloud the conditions that the board needs to consider in order to make a decision regarding the petition. Each condition was discussed to determine whether or not it relates to the proposed petition. Planning Commission member Bob Pope suggested adding to the stipulations for the CUP that the CUP will cease upon sale of the property or ending of the business.
        - Dahlfors motioned to approve the CUP with the recommendations that 1) The CUP is not a traveling CUP. It will cease upon the sale of the property or ending of the business; 2) The CUP is used specifically for a photography business; 3) The CUP will follow the 10 year CUP stipulation. Attorney Rebecca Lee and the petitioner agreed to the above. Second by Mathews. Voting yes: Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary. Voting no: Bartman and Schuster. Motion passed. Schuster will draft a letter to the ZBA recommending approval of this petition.
    1. Presentation – David Brandt – Soil & Water: Schuster introduced Mr. Brandt to the board stating that he will be presenting information regarding geological aquifer sensitivity, soil permeability, etc. in Seneca Township. Mr. Brandt is here representing the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. During the presentation, Mr. Brandt informed the board of some interesting facts and showed various maps that detailed such things as the locations of wetlands, agricultural areas, water tables, highly erodible soils, the FEMA Floodplain and floodplain records, Geologic Aquifer Sensitivity, watersheds, soil permeability, prime farmland soils, septic suitable/unsuitable soils, and McHenry County Conservation District sites in Seneca Township. He explained what each map represented and how it affects Seneca Township. Growth was discussed as a major concern. Mr. Brandt stated that, “The proper way to develop is the conservation way.” He added that we should allow for development, but also allow for natural resources. Schuster feels the information presented tonight can be used in the update of our Seneca Township Land Use Plan.
      - The board thanked Mr. Brandt for his time and his very well-done power point presentation identifying the locations of Seneca Township’s natural resources and their importance.
    Approval of Minutes: Dahlfors motioned to approve the October 9, 2007 regular monthly minutes as presented. Second by Bartman. Motion passed.

    Audit of Current Bills:
    Road District - Bartman motioned to approve the Road District bills for payment for the period of October 10, 2007 through November 13, 2007 in the amount of $32,042.04. Second by Dahlfors. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.
    Town Fund – Mathews motioned to approve the Town Fund bills for payment for the period of October 10, 2007 through November 13, 2007 in the amount of $6,779.56. Second by O’Leary. Voting yes: Bartman, Mathews, Dahlfors, O’Leary, Schuster. Voting no: None. Motion passed.

    Treasurer’s Report: October 1, 2007 through October 31, 2007, as listed below:
    Illinois Fund – Mathews motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Illinois Fund for the period of October 1, 2007 through October 31, 2007. Second by Dahlfors. Motion passed.
    Illinois FundPrevious BalanceTrans to PrimeExpensesIncomeEnding Balance
    General Assistance$24,640.8500$150.63$24,791.48
    Town Fund$148,683.020$8,749.64$5,514.99$145,448.37
    Road & Bridge$153,196.540$2,305.92$4,759.69$155,650.31
    Permanent Hard Road$169,054.480$41,680.10$3,939.00$131,313.38
    Building & Equipment$28,021.1800$3,616.86$31,638.04

    Prime Fund – Dahlfors motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report for the Prime Fund for the period of October 1, 2007 through October 31, 2007. Second by Mathews. Motion passed.
    Prime FundPrevious Balance