THE VILLAGE OF HAWTHORN WOODS

ENVIROMENTAL COMMITTEE MEETING

March 18, 2004

7:30 P.M.

Mr. Schweitzer called the meeting to order at 7:35p.m.

Present: Ms. Felice

Mr. Heraty

Mr. Pearlman

Mr. Dixon

Mr. Schweitzer

Absent: Mr. Bickley

Also Absent: Trustee Riess, Liaison

I. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES

A motion was made by Mr. Dixon, seconded by Mr. Heraty to approve February 19, 2004 minutes. On a voice vote the motion carried unanimously.

II. OPPORTUNITY FOR THE PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE COMMITTEE

None this month.

Mr. Schweitzer commented that he had received a flyer at his house from a neighbor primarily to dispel the concern about coyotes in the area. She’s quite knowledgeable about them and is trying to educate people about the coyotes. Mr. Schweitzer had hoped this neighbor would be present at tonight’s meeting.

III. DISCUSS VILLAGE PLANNER’S RECOMMENDATION TO THE TREE ORDINANCE

The committee discussed the recommendations for the tree ordinance by the Village Planner. It was noted that the Village Planner had many suggestions. It was decided that the committee would discuss the recommendations in detail at a later date.

IV. PRESENTATION BY DICK DIXON

Mr. Dixon commented that he has been trying to reach Mr. Burglund about conducting tree inspections, however, he has not received a response back from Mr. Burglund.

Mr. Dixon presented to the Environmental Committee a presentation he would like to conduct for David Lindquist, Chairperson of the Plan Commission. Mr. Dixon commented that he’s been in contact with Mr. Lindquist to encourage the Plan Commission to work with the Environmental Committee on environmental issues during development. Mr. Dixon stated that this would include the best uses of open space.

Mr. Dixon commented that the answer is not to require large lots. This only encourages people to bring in landscapers to mow down the natural landscaping.

Mr. Dixon said the Village should require a certain amount of open space for developments over 20 homes. His suggestion would be to require a walking trail. He would like to see homes on smaller lots (cluster concept) with large open space areas as a part of their developments.

Mr. Dixon further commented that it is important to minimize impervious surfaces – eliminate curbs, promote use of native trees and shrubs, also to preserve as many native trees. Mr. Dixon wants the Environmental Committee to be a source of suggestions and used as an environmental review with developments.

Ms. Felice said this presentation should also be directed towards the Village Board, because it’s the Village Board that seems to want the 1-acre lots. It was noted that during the Toll Brothers hearing that many people came forward stating that Hawthorn Woods is a community based on 1-acre lots, and based on this comment, that it may be very hard to get the Village Board to change.

The Committee as a whole felt the presentation was good and should be presented to Mr. Lindquist.

V. NEW BUSINESS

The Committee discussed the idea of promoting bike paths throughout the Village.

Mr. Schweitzer also discussed the burn ordinance. Mr. Schweitzer said he contacted Administrator Benford about prescribed burns. Administrator Benford stated he has received more than one call regarding prescribed burns. Mr. Schweitzer would like to see the ordinance amended to include prescribed burns. Ms. Felice commented that prescribed burns need to be timed with the growing season of certain plants and she felt that the timing of our current ordinance (April 1 through May 15) may be environmentally correct.

Mr. Dixon made a motion to amend the current burn ordinance to include the following language: “Exceptions to these dates may be made by the Village Administrator with or without a permit.” Seconded by Mr. Schweitzer.

On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously.

VI. OLD BUSINESS

The Committee decided that they would not sponsor an Arbor Day program this year.

On a motion by Mr. Heraty and a second by Mr. Dixon, the Environmental Committee adjourned at 8:42 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

_____________________________ _____________________________

Ted Schweitzer, Acting Chairperson Donna Lobaito, Recording Secretary