How Many Votes Can Vince Buy With Your Tax Dollars? Edition

IF THEY HAVE NO BREAD...LET THEM EAT CAKE!

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Historically, that was one of the most damning, arrogant political statements, and led to the French Revolution (Viva' la France!)

The orator, Marie Antoinette, was beheaded during the Revolution.

Vince is even more clueless, more arrogant, although much less eloquent. I think Vince said "Burp" or was it "zzzzzzz". After all, FTC readers know Vince can't count to five.

Now, I'm not suggesting that the residents of Highwood rise up and behead Vince...right, I'm not suggesting that at all. But I'm hoping that they are smart enough to rise up and force feed him a few "No" votes, as his desert.

Marie Antoinette was known for her personal excesses while the French peasants starved. Vince is smarter, he has plenty of excesses, but has locked down City Hall to make sure that the Highwood peasants don't know that their dollars are being used to fund Vince's excesses.

While Fidel Ghini was proud that Highwood had no tax, he balanced that by being frugal. He recycled envelopes, worked in the streets himself, and wouldn't take a dollar from the City.
Vince is the anti Fidel. Sure he ran on a platform of returning to the "old days" of Fidel, but nothing could be farther from the truth.

Fidel was personally wealthy. But, he would rather slit his wrist than waste a penny of the City's money.
Vince is a bitter, unwealthy man. He will try every angle for personal wealth, but will spill the City's money, like water...as long as it feathers his own nest.

If Vince shows up at the League of Women's Voters debate (SEE BELOW), ask him why he is taking a $12,000 dollar salary?

Ask him why he has hired a City Administrator who is just out of school, but is getting paid TWICE what the last City administrator got paid.

But My Severance Package Sure Is?
Ask him if your money has no value to him, as he is pushing to reward this short timer with a severance package of $100,000 Dollars if the City fires him! Have you ever been paid that kind of money not to work? Of course not, most people aren't lucky enough to get paid that much to work. But your tax dollars mean nothing to Vince.

Of course, the City Administrator has been promoted to City Manager. This is so he can do the work that Vince couldn't do.

And don't forget that he is supposed to be politically neutral, but has wasted City money "censuring" Vince's opponents on the Council. You know the alderwoman who asked why the City was wasting tax dollars?

But rewarding people with your money, to do Vince's work is nothing new.

Remember the Police Chief that was terminated by the City? His legacy was that he tried to get me indicted on bogus charges! And when he was terminated by the City, he was paid about $35,000 in severance pay, so he would be quiet about his follies.

And don't forget the City attorneys that are getting 3-4 times as much as the former City Attorney...but, they are loyal to Vince. Is that how you would spend those $$$? Of course not...but Vince is happy to do it for you. Wait until the next tax increase.

Remember the saying..."follow the money"?

Well, have you seen the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Signs blaring their support for Vince.
Well, Vince bought that support with your money!

I said support, not "votes" because almost none of the Firefighters that support Vince live in the City. (I think one does, and he is management and therefore not a union member!)

So, your out of town Firefighters support Vince. Ask yourself "WHY".
Is it because Vince is so knowledgeable? Nope...Follow the Money.

Vince used your money to give them a fat contract, a contract that will cost the City hundreds of thousands of dollars...but it got their loyalty. You didn't even know that there was a contract did you? Of course not, Vince was embarrassed at what he had to give up (YOUR MONEY) to buy their loyalty.

Why not, (like the City Manager) they don't live in town. They go home, take your tax dollars with them, and don't pay the kind of taxes that you do!

Regardless of your politics, you have to give President Obama credit. Everyday he notes the country is in tough times. He imposed pay freezes for his senior staff. He criticizes obscene bonuses. While the country struggles, and thank God to have a job, Vince gave the Firefighters retroactive 9% pay increases!

And don't forget, the City has almost doubled ambulance fees!

BTW, that is for a 38 hour work week! And remember those are "Duty Hours" and include the sleeping hours at the station! Something that can be exempted under Federal Law.
Do you get paid to sleep?
Know anyone else that works only 38 hours a week?

And don't forget, Vince gave the Firefighters pay (50%) if they don't take a sick day! Aren't sick days for being sick?

And don't forget an ANNUAL CLOTHING ALLOWANCE, in addition to the City providing all other equipment!

But, here is the real cincher...on May 15th of this year, every Fire Department Union member gets a BONUS for retroactive pay raises. Did you ever get a retro pay raise?

The retroactive bonuses are up to $19,000 for the firefighters!
No wonder they paid for those yellow signs endorsing Vince. I'll bet they will even be knocking on your door telling you how great Vince is and how bad the other guys are.

So, when Vince gets elected,
He will take his $12,000 salary,
the City Manager will get $100,000 if he gets fired,
the Firefighters will be tooling around in their new truck or motorcycle (bought with their bonuses)...and
you will be wondering if you can afford the tax bill coming out in June.

If you vote for Vince, you have no self respect.

Highwood's Old Timers
I wonder what those men and women "blue collar" workers that were bigger than life and shaped Highwood would do if they were alive today. I can just imagine the old timers like Dominick Linari, Ed Linari, the Fabbri Brothers, Sam Ori, Reno Minorini, Flip Maestri Ozzie Mazzetta and Fidel Ghini talking about this at the Sheridan Lunch.

They wouldn't stand for it. They would probably build a beautiful stone guillotine...

But on the other hand, they would not have been stupid enough to elect Vince as Mayor...Are you?

IMPORTANT NOTICE

The League of Women Voters is hosting a
Highwood Candidates Forum
March 12, 2009 @ 6:45 PM
At Oak Terrace School

This Forum is critical. The League has a long history of being politically independent and working to educate voters on important community issues.
You should not miss it!

BTW -- Reliable sources indicate that Walter Pieri thinks that you are such a sucker, he isn't even going to show up! He is (over) confident that he can fool you again.

BTW II -- Reliable sources also say that Vince is feeling the heat. He doesn't want to answer your questions...just like the City Council Meetings...and he will also be a "No-Show". What a slap in the face to Highwood Voters!

BTW III -- Vince's $100,000 Baby (a/k/a the City Manager) wouldn't let the League use the Highwood Rec Center.
First, why was he even involved? Highwood has a Rec Board that handles short term lease?
Second, did it interfere with "SMALL FRY" Basketball (the "For Profit" "Not For Profit") that Vince is an officer/director of?
Third, if you can't use a community center for a "community event"..Oh, I forgot Vince doesn't want it to happen.
"Fool Me Once...Shame On You
Fool Me Twice...Shame On Me"
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The views expressed in this newsletter are my own opinions, and may not represent the views of anyone else. Factual corrections will be appreciated and reported. This letter may be informative, interesting, cynical, humorous, and/or irritating depending upon one's point of view.
************************************************************************************************************ Trying to preserve Highwood for the next City Council, through your involvement today!
Thank you for your interest.
*************************************************************************************
FROM THE CORNER (FTC)
Paul P. Diambri
Writer, Editor, Psychic, Detective, Photographer, Columnist, Reviewer,
Reporter, Janitor, Messenger, Owner & Chairman of the Board

Vince Is Lying When His Lips Are Moving Edition

Vince & Rod...Definitely Separated at Birth
OR
Roland Burris Can't Tell the Truth...
Is Roland Burris "Vince's Brother from Another Mother"?

An Electronic Newsletter – With Highwood News, Information & Entertainment
February 22, 2009
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Introduction

Why Can't Vince Tell The Truth?
When I read the latest "update" article in the HP News online about the tragic fire two weeks ago, I was really infuriated.

QUESTION: When was the last time you saw the HP News do a follow up on anything?

ANSWER: When it fits their political agenda. Here was a follow up Article about the Green Bay Road fire. The Article stated that the City didn't know anymore about the cause of the fire (there's a reason for a follow-up!) and letting Vince trumpet his (fake) horror about the state of rental conditions in Highwood.

Of course the article ran after Vince called in a favor after seeing the facts laid out in FTC. The HP News is afraid of losing the three readers they have left.

First, here is a reprint of the Article, for context (My snide, yet accurate, remarks are in red & italics):

Highwood Fire Remains Under Investigation

February 17, 2009 By ANDREW SCHNEIDER aschneider@pioneerlocal.com
Highwood officials are still investigating a fire in an over-crowded duplex that injured two children and left nearly a dozen without shelter last weekend. Highwood Mayor Vincent Donofrio said that the cause of the fire hasn't been determined but that calls reporting suspected over-crowding in the city have spiked. "We're starting to get some calls on some of the over-crowding issues from neighbors," Donofrio said Tuesday. REALLY just "starting"? How about the people who have come to City Council meetings, complaining...they were told "we'll look into it"
The fire which began around 2:15 p.m. Feb. 7, at a duplex at 820-822 Green Bay Road, appeared to have started in the basement and spread to all three floors. It was extinguished around 4 p.m. The fire left the building uninhabitable.
Donofrio said the problem is exacerbated by absentee landlords who own some of the estimated 850 rental units in the North Shore community. "We do have a problem with absentee landlords not keeping the property up," he said. "What I'm worried about though, is safety." WOW, Vince "Einstein" Donofrio figured out that Highwood has an absentee landlord problem. He must have just woken up. He missed the Rental Inspection Ordinance that the Sirotti Administration passed; He pulled the plug on Code Enforcement.
Donofrio said that after last week's fire he even received three calls personally from neighbors concerned about specific rental properties. Too bad, that the calls Vince is getting are from the slumlord's worried that he might start code enforcement. Depending on the final disposition of the investigation, officials raised the specter of a criminal complaint against the owner of the duplex. How about a Criminal complaint against Vince for his wilful neglect of his Oath of office to enforce the law for HIGHWOOD'S RESIDENTS...not their out of town landlord's/political contributors.
"I feel for the tenants, I truly do, and we have an obligation to protect them," WOW, another revelation! Vince has an obligation to protect the tenants...not the landlords. Donofrio said after the fire. "When landlords are cramming people into housing that is inadequate in size and or accommodation for the sake of making a buck, we will prosecute them to the fullest extent." Hey Vince, didn't you do the rental unit inspections? Why didn't you know about the over crowding? BTW...how many code enforcement cases have been filed in the last 3.5 years?
Updated 2/17: Highwood fire remains under investigation :: News :: PIONEER PRESS :: Highland Park News

Where's the Outrage?
Two children were injured in the fire.
The City looked away (until they couldn't anymore).
Now Vince's campaign platform is CODE ENFORCEMENT?
Give me a break.
Vince, just stop the lies. There WAS a code enforcement program in full swing when Vince took over, but:
He gutted it.
He stopped North Shore Estates from losing its rental license ("They are working on making repairs, let's give them a chance").
There were numerous fires after that.
He tried to let NSE be converted to condos w/o a public hearing.
Then he greased the way for its acquisition by a sub-standard developer, w/o requiring them to make important life safety repairs.
NSE is just the tip of the iceberg. The Slumlords are running amok throughout the City...and Vince doesn't care...it is the reason he was elected...he had the contributions and support of the out of town landlords.
So while innocent children burn, while your property values are in the tank, Vince's buddies rake it in.

Vote for Vince, He Will Protect My Slum Investment
Vince will fake outrage, empathy, horror and outrage...until you are stupid enough to believe him and re-elect him. Then he will forget about it, collect his salary...and collect pats on the back from his out of town supporters.
Oh, yeah...Vince will snicker with them about what a dumb ass you were for helping to re-elect him.
The choice is yours. After all, what are the chances your children or grandchildren will be burned and scarred? That only happens to "those other people". You know the ones Vince is now outraged about because they are the victims of his friends...the out of town landlords.
After all, he was one of those "Landlords"...remember that he was once the owner of 319 Euclid Avenue...which became one of the worst slum properties in Highwood history. It was so bad that Sirotti's Code enforcement program got it demolished. It made the duplex on Green Bay Road look like the Taj Mahal.
Ask Vince, the debate is coming!
There will be an upcoming debate. Ask Vince some hard questions:
How many cases the City has filed to enforce the Housing Codes since he was elected;
How many cases they have won;
How many slums have been demolished;
Why he stopped doing Rental Inspections during his first year in office;
Why he could use home rule to raise your taxes, but couldn't use it to require a sprinkler system at North Shore Estates;
Why he tried to sneak a change in the zoning code so it would be possible for NSE to change hands w/o public hearings and making important repairs;
Why he is spending more than triple in attorney fees, and not doing any of these things;
He won't tell you the truth. He will talk, his lips will move, he will lie. But it will be fun to watch him stutter and the expression on the his face.

What's Next?

Well, this is the third FTC of the year. The word is Vince is really upset. So, I wonder what's next:
What rumors is he going to start to spread? (More importantly, will you believe him?)
Will he respond to the disturbing information? (Will you demand it?)
Will I be investigated again? (I hope so, this time I won't let the City off so easily)
Who is he going to threaten?
Or, is he just going to sit back and smile...because he thinks that Highwood voters are chumps?
Everyone has standards...Its just that Vince's are really low.
How are your standards?
"Fool Me Once...Shame On You
Fool Me Twice...Shame On Me"

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The views expressed in this newsletter are my own opinions, and may not represent the views of anyone else. Factual corrections will be appreciated and reported. This letter may be informative, interesting, cynical, humorous, and/or irritating depending upon one's point of view.
************************************************************************************************************ *************************************************************************************************************
Trying to preserve Highwood for the next City Council, through your involvement today!

*********************************************************************************
FROM THE CORNER (FTC)
Paul P. Diambri
Writer, Editor, Psychic, Detective, Photographer, Columnist, Reviewer,
Reporter, Janitor, Messenger, Owner & Chairman of the Board

"You Reap What You Sow" Edition

"You Reap What You Sow"
Or
"Vince & Rod...Separated at Birth?"

An Electronic Newsletter – With Highwood News, Information & Entertainment
February 18, 2009
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Introduction

Is It Worth the Pain?
Until this week, I hadn't put out an FTC since last May. Part of it was sheer frustration. I would start one, but there were so many ridiculous bumblings by the Mayor's Administration, that it was out of date before I finished, so I would start a new one, etc. etc. etc.

Also, I became very busy with life and work. So having devoted a good part of my adult life to Highwood (The Little City That Could), I took a break. I figured someone else would take up the cause of saving Highwood from the ridicule of Vince's administration.

After sending out the recent FTC, I remembered the warm glow of satisfaction in a job well done...but I also remembered the pain and work. I had to field about 50 congratulatory calls and e-mails. I got about a dozen "please add me to your list" e-mails...and I can't forget Angelo Biondi, who insisted on being removed...Hi Angelo...I'm sure that you are reading this cause it got forwarded by someone...but, you have the satisfaction of demanding to be removed...good for you! Ignorance is bliss!

But, no pain no gain!

Stopping FTC...What a mistake. Cheney was wrong, the Iraqi's didn't rise up. I was wrong, neither did the oppressed Highwood citizens and businesses. They are afraid and worn out.

And if some poor straggler decided to rise up, the Vince rumor mill quickly started. (Did you hear the one about the female alderman that "intimidated" the burly fire chief, the experienced police chief, and the public works director? They were so terrified, that she had to be "censured" to stop her reign of terror!) And if you believe that "testosterone trio" was intimidated, rather than a political ploy by Vince to silence his opposition, I have a carburetor that gets 300 mpg.

Signs, Signs Everywhere the Signs
Well Vince said he was running for only one term. So, since he has less veracity than Rod Blagojevich, he is running again...Imagine that. You know what that means:
The screaming chimps are starting to come to the meetings;
The thugs are twisting the arms of businesses to put up "Donofrio" signs;
The out of town landlords are ponying up donations;
You might even get a City Newsletter again!
And you can bet that Vince will try to get something accomplished before the election. Accomplishing one thing in four years isn't bad...if you are curing cancer...but it's real bad for a City.

Oh...I'm sorry...I forgot the accomplishment trumpeted by the HP News in its "year end review"...getting the Highwood Towers approved. That is if you forget that:
Highwood's people didn't want the Towers;
Any improvement on the design was due solely to the grass root movement spearheaded by FTC;
It never got built...and never will be built;
Its a weed field; and
Vince agreed to let them lower their taxes...so it can stay a weed field.
Speaking of Lowering Taxes
In the past, I have announced that I would not accept "anonymous" contributions for publication. Well this week I got an anonymous e-mail (I was one of many recipients) regarding the Mayor's sweetheart deal on his Real Estate Taxes. I checked it out, it is 100% true. Seems that Vince got the taxes on his home reduced to under $2,000 per year!

Imagine that...a nice house on the North Shore with a $2,000 tax bill. No wonder he didn't care about the 20% tax increase he was pushing.
Donofrio Abode - 239 Sheridan Avenue

And don't forget, Vince started collecting his $12,000.00 per year salary only a few months after he said he WOULD NOT TAKE A SALARY. (Just like Rod "This is Golden" Blagojevich) But better than that, he even has the City paying withholding on that...SWEET!

"Vince, you take that tax break and the salary...its golden!"

And don't forget that the Mayor couldn't get anything done, couldn't keep appointments, so he hired a City Manager at a cost of over $100,000 to do his job for him. After all, spreading all those rumors is really time consuming.

BTW...your Real Estate taxes are going to pay for Vince's salary and wasteful spending. How does that feel?

So, what are your taxes? Let me give you a comparison. Remember the prior mayor? His house has a smaller footprint. He has been paying $5,500 plus during the same time Vince paid less than $2,000 per year.

Of course, Vince was chummy with the assessor...hmm?

So, what follows is the e-mail I received (slightly edited for context), after that is my response to someone that thought I sent it out.

Enjoy This...You Too Rod... I mean, Vince!

Rod Carrying Vince's Booty!
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REPRINTED

We understand from family and friends who attended Sunday's campaign kick-off rally for the Donofrio ticket that he and his supporters were spreading a number of untrue rumors about anyone opposed to them. Well, you should know some facts about your current Mayor.Honest Highwood residents pay their fair share of real estate taxes. Do you want a mayor who has not done so for many of the last several years? Those of us who are concerned about the state of affairs in Highwood certainly do not want a mayor like that.

Look at the taxes paid by Mayor Donofrio for the last few years. Apparently the assessor in 2001 or 2003 granted him a value that was way less than it should have been. Was that kosher? We don't know. But at the very least, the mayor was happy to take advantage of that for six years!

It is no wonder that the mayor was in favor of a twenty percent increase of the city tax levy in 2006. That was his nasty gift to everyone who voted for home rule. It was later reduced after a citizen outcry but it originally passed as 20 percent. Then he was in favor of another 20 percent increase the next year! Much more than the home rule promises the Mayor made. I guess that those massive tax increases are much easier to take when your home is grossly under assessed.

Donofrio Tax Bill History
Year Amount Billed
1996 $3,041.74
1997 $3,205.74
1998 $3,288.64
1999 $3,476.58
2000 $3,655.46
2001 $2,145.13
2002 $2,204.01
2003 $1,931.93
2004 $1,984.75
2005 $2,252.19
2006 $2,421.48
2007 $5,270.39

Now what happened last December? Well, the mayor's assessment doubled. But remember there was an election coming up in five months. So now the mayor plays good guy and keeps the tax levy constant. Thanks Mr. Donofrio. But people have to question his real motivation.

Here is the information, look it up yourself
VINCENT J & ANGELA M DONOFRIO
Pin: 16-15-209-004
Street Address: 239 SHERIDAN AVE
City: HIGHWOOD, IL

There is also a Donofrio alderman who had the same deal going for himself. But that is for next time.

PS: sorry for the unidentified name on the email but while the current administration and aldermen are in place we fear punishment for this.
===================================================================================
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Fan Mail From Some Flounder?
REPRINTED FROM A FAN: Paul, Looks like somebody is using what appears to be the FTC mail list. Interesting. Good digging, and pertinent. Name Withheld

*********************************************************************************************************** Dear Fan, As Johnny Carson (Karnak the Magnificent) said to Ed McMahon...You are wrong camel breath! As I told others (who also mistakenly thought I was the author):
That is not the FTC list, the FTC list is well over a thousand names (and I wouldn't publicize it);
That is the e-mail list from when the City sends out agendas. It looks like somebody just used the list from the City. In fact if you scroll down, you will notice it is a "Reply All" to the City e-mail distributing the Agenda!
I would not send anything out anonymously. Having been the subject of the anonymous attack press, I have stated in my FTC's that I am proud to be accurate, proud to distribute FTC, and proud to claim credit/responsibility. I will not participate in the anonymous (and false) character assassination, that is indigenous to Highwood;
I have my guess as to who distributed the note. I have been privy to the info for months, but chose not to use it.

Pretty bad intelligence from somebody who worked for M-5, UNCLE or NSA (just kidding). In parting, "May the fleas of a thousand camels...." Pablo

********************************************************************************************So, there it is. That's why you are tired, and that's why Vince is running again. You pay for the bills, and Vince lines his pocket. Tax breaks for himself, favors for his buddies and punishment for those who oppose.

Get out and vote in April. Remember four votes got you this mess last time around.

"Fool Me Once...Shame On You
Fool Me Twice...Shame On Me"
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The views expressed in this newsletter are my own opinions, and may not represent the views of anyone else. Factual corrections will be appreciated and reported. This letter may be informative, interesting, cynical, humorous, and/or irritating depending upon one's point of view.
************************************************************************************************************ ************************************************************************************************************
Trying to preserve Highwood for the next City Council, through your involvement today!
Thank you for your interest.
*****************************************************************************
*****************************************************************************
FROM THE CORNER (FTC)
Paul P. Diambri
Writer, Editor, Psychic, Detective, Photographer, Columnist, Reviewer,
Reporter, Janitor, Messenger, Owner & Chairman of the Board

Highwood Towers Bulletin #5

URGENT HIGHWOOD TOWERS BULLETIN #5 -- January 18, 2007
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HIGHWOOD NEEDS YOUR HELP NOW! FTC Special Edition -- Guest Columnist
An Anonymous Town of Fort Sheridan Resident Introduction
FTC welcomes comments and contributions from its readers. We first brought you a commentary from former Mayor Sirotti on the outrageous actions of the City Council in levying a 20% tax hike without showing any need or justification. Later, we presented the review of Highwood Towers by Attorney, Mary Sfasciotti. The Highwood Towers proposal is still generating a lot of interest from others who have reviewed the proposal. Today's FTC is entirely devoted to some thoughtful commentary from a Fort Sheridan resident that has taken the time to review MEGA's proposal. In addition to the many hours expended by today's guest columnist, many others are doing similar meticulous research. I can assure you of two things:
None of this would have been possible without the Developer's materials being distributed by FTC. None of this information came from City Hall voluntarily. As a matter of fact, the Mayor actually tried to suppress the distribution of Highwood Towers materials. He actually threatened a resident who obtained the materials before the first hearing. To paraphrase "You better return that book, it doesn't belong to you. Besides you will just give it to Diambri/FTC!". What a shock! The Mayor should be complimenting the resident for their civic interest, and welcoming a review and distribution by the former City Attorney! What is he hiding?
That despite the meager resources available, FTC and its readers/contributors have done far more research and due diligence on the Highwood Towers than the City and it's staff have. WOW!

ONCE AGAIN, The hearing is tonight, January 18, 2007 at 7:00 PM at Highwood City Hall. FTC will bring you more info as the hearing approaches. It is critical that you ATTEND AND EXPRESS YOUR OPINIONS! The trained Chimps, flying monkeys and insincere shills certainly will.
________________________________________________
An Opinion from A Town of Fort Sheridan Resident with A Highland Park ZIP Code Regarding the Development of Highwood Towers on Sheridan Road To Replace the Moraine Hotel

The City of Highwood will soon consider the Proposal of MEGA Properties, LLC to construct the nine story Highwood Tower project. I reside in the Highland Park portion of the Town of Fort Sheridan subdivision. The Town of Fort Sheridan is prominently cited by the Developer as a marketing comparable in their study and presentation. If approved, the Highwood Towers development will have a profound impact on my future residency in the Town of Fort Sheridan. It will also have a significant impact on a number of my Highland Park and Highwood neighbors who currently reside (or will reside) in the Town of Fort Sheridan ”just across the street”. The fate of the Highwood Towers proposal is not known. However, it has already been the subject of a positive recommendation from the Plan Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Their ultimate recommendation will be forwarded to Highwood City Council for subsequent consideration.

All current Fort Sheridan property owners are financially burdened due to the our developer’s refusal to (a) pay a two year assessment obligation of approximately $150,000, (b) perform their obligated major ravine restoration which will cost all owners over $500,000 to save it the ravines, and (c) fully comply with a legal agreement with Lake County. This will possibly delay the complete development of the Forest Preserve acreage which was gifted by the US government to the County by up to ten years. This acreage (valued in the range of $5 million) was conveyed with a restrictive covenant to operate a golf course within the preserve. Needless to say, the Fort Sheridan developer is named as a defendant in the respective unsettled lawsuits. To what degree and when will the homeowners be unburdened? We don't know. Highwood cannot afford to make the same mistake with the Highwood Towers proposal.

What's on the horizon regarding the potential Highwood Tower developer? The wisdom and integrity of the City of Highwood’s governance is, and will be the basis for the outcome of this “win or lose” proposition.

Granted, I don't vote for City of Highwood issues, however, I'm blind to the Highwood/Highland Park boundary line within the Town of Fort Sheridan where I reside. Highwood is my backyard. I bank in Highwood, frequent Walgreens; enjoy the superb restaurants (too often), have both my cars fixed in Highwood; regularly fill my two gas tanks in Highwood; attend St. James parish; use the Highwood Library; love the Highwood Postal service; attend many of the festivities held in Highwood; contribute tax dollars to school districts; and drive the Highwood thoroughfares constantly. I even vote at Highwood Polling places for county and national elections. I have taken the time to study MEGA Properties revised Highwood Towers proposal. That proposal was finally made available to the public last week, but only through the insistence and efforts of private citizens to disseminate the information. I'm personally appalled by how late that the materials were submitted, and the lack of updated data. There are no reasonable assurances that this complex project will be financially successful and completed within the various conflicting time frames contained in the proposal. I've documented many holes in the proposal. Hopefully, these discrepancies will be investigated by Highwood, and explanations provided by the Developer. One glaring omission in the revised proposal, is the lack of any reference to how the Navy PPV development (also across the street) will affect Highwood!

In addition, as far as I can conclude, there is little or no reference in the proposal as to the financial underpinnings of this Developer. What are the source and terms of the construction funding? How will the City guarantee that the developer will meet their promises, regarding quality and time frame? What assurances does the City have that the ever changing proposed (high-end) retail services will materialize?

Will Highwood need to pay for the personnel to cover the responsibility of riding herd on the many construction facets? At what cost? Remember, during the Town of Fort Sheridan development Highwood had significant assistance from Highland Park and even Highland Park was required to outsource many building and zoning services (I only learned about this fact a few months ago due to a need to research early zoning issues regarding my condominium building).

There is a huge fiduciary responsibility facing the Plan Commission, Zoning Board, City Council, and City staff. I pray that they take their obligations seriously, and move forward cautiously.

Signed -- An interested neighbor
_________________________________________________

HIGHWOOD TOWERS ZONING MEETING: On January 18th, 2007 at 7:00 PM the Plan Commission and Zoning Board will commence a new hearing for approval of MEGA Realty's nine story, mixed use Highwood Towers proposal. If you care about Highwood's future, you will be there.

Is This Your Idea of Highwood? Actual Rendering of the MEGA Proposal! You will find the Highwood Towers Zoning submittal and related materials on that web site, available for download. In addition, these materials are available for inspection at Highwood City Hall. Further, FTC has provided the City with CD-ROMs containing the PDF materials. You can pick these up at City Hall. Hoping for a better Highwood tomorrow, through your involvement today!
Based on citizen pressure, the Plan Commission and ZBA started over to correct their errors. It's up to you. Keep up the pressure, or let the Developer win. Contact the Plan Commission Members, Zoning Board Members, The Mayor, your alderman, the City Administrator...Attend the Hearing, let them know how you feel

PS - Remember, the FTC "Year in Review" is coming soon!
Bookmark the FTC Web site: http://hwdftc.home.comcast.net/

HWD Gov't Alert - Special Edition, How To Count

FROM THE CORNER - January 17, 2007
FTC's Motto -2007 The Way Things Are Going, I Won't Be Nicer For A Long, Long, Long Time!
An Electronic Newsletter – With Highwood News, Information & Entertainment
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CAN WE PLEASE GET A MAYOR THAT KNOWS HOW TO COUNT TO 5?

Highwood's nominal Mayor, Vince Donofrio, is a banker. Highwood's City Administrator is an attorney. Highwood's new City Attorney's accomplishments are listed on his former firm's web site. He has left that firm to work in the public sector. He is now merely "Of Counsel" to his old firm. That means he works for them, but not much. The firm web site boasts impressive credentials for Highwood's part time attorney. Having worked years ago for large municipalities like Naperville, Downers Grove, etc. But, it seems that paying attention to tiny Highwood may be beneath him.

On Tuesday night, what may be a first in Highwood City government occurred. With four aldermen, and the Mayor, (that's 5 elected officials, or 4 + 1 = 5) attending the City Council meeting, and after consulting at length with the City attorney, the Mayor declared that there would be no meeting as there was no "quorum". A quorum is a majority of the Council. For those of you who don't know, Highwood has eight aldermanic positions and one Mayor (OK, I will avoid the gratuitous "shot" about "What Mayor"). In other words, to determine a quorum, the following higher math functions are required:
8 + 1 = 9
9 divided by 2 = 4.5
Round to the next highest number/human -- 4.5 is rounded to 5.
Therefore a majority of 9 = 5
Number required for a Quorum!!! Or, you can simply hold up 5 fingers on one hand, and 4 fingers on the other hand. The hand with the most fingers (5) is the number for a quorum. so, removing your shoes isn't even required!

Don't believe me? Well, here is the law from the Illinois Municipal Code: 65 ILCS § 3.1-40-20. Quorum. A majority of the corporate authorities shall constitute a quorum to do business.

Or in simple language from the Illinois Municipal League Handbook: (Which is a primer in municipal law that everyone has):
"Quorum The Municipal Code provides that a majority of the corporate authorities, i.e., the council or board of trustees and the mayor or president, shall constitute a quorum to do business. 65 ILCS 5/3.1-40-20. Acts...The mayor or president is to be counted in determining whether a quorum is present. For example, if a city has a mayor and fourteen aldermen, the corporate authorities are composed of fifteen individuals. It is necessary that at least eight aldermen, or the mayor and seven aldermen, be present at a meeting in order to constitute a quorum to do business."

So, for the first time in memory, the Highwood Council meeting was called for lack of a quorum. In other words, the City of Highwood Team forfeited. Have you heard of any other town canceling a Board Meeting for lack of interest?

But, the amazing thing is that with all that brain power, degrees and credentials, neither the Mayor, nor the City Administrator, nor apparently, the City Attorney figured out that the City was forfeiting when, in fact they had enough people to field a team. They actually had a Quorum!

So, Highwood gets another "black eye". Remember, FTC is not making the City look bad. The City is making itself look bad, we are merely reporting their actions.

So, the City ground to a halt because no one knew how to count properly. Or more appropriately, apparently, neither the Mayor nor the "professional staff" gave the correct advice. No bills were paid, no contracts were approved, the Mayor's aldermanic appointee and his wife sat in the audience, and the citizens that attended went home. Highwood will go for almost a month with no City Council meeting. Something that has never happened before!
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Contributions of City Administrator & City Attorney While the mayor illegally declared there was no quorum, the City Attorney sat mute. The City Administrator who has no training in these matters (remember the lack of a degree in Public Administration) sat mute. The City stopped functioning, because of lack of leadership, and lack of knowledge.

But, who needs City Council Meetings at City Hall on Tuesdays? The real management of the City happens at City Hall South on Wednesday nights. So, don't worry, the City is in good hands, well, it's in some hands, just not the hands of anybody that you elected. The guys you elected can't muster enough people for a meeting.

And when they do attend, the City's Banker-Mayor can't count that high. Maybe that explains his desire to approve the Highwood Towers project. The Banker-Mayor doesn't know that Highwood Towers is nine stories. He probably lost count at four stories.

The "Four Story" Highwood Towers Project (Stories Counted By Vince)

HIGHWOOD TOWERS ZONING MEETING: On January 18th, 2007 at 7:00 PM the Plan Commission and Zoning Board will commence a new hearing for approval of MEGA Realty's nine story, mixed use Highwood Towers proposal. If you care about Highwood's future, you will be there.

Is This Your Idea of Highwood? Actual Rendering of the MEGA Proposal! You will find the Highwood Towers Zoning submittal and related materials on that web site, available for download. In addition, these materials are available for inspection at Highwood City Hall. Further, FTC has provided the City with CD-ROMs containing the PDF materials. You can pick these up at City Hall.

Bookmark the FTC Web site: http://hwdftc.home.comcast.net/ or Click this Link: From the Corner
Got a Suggestion or Comment?
E-mail Us At: HWDLAW@aol.com
OR Visit Our New FTC BLOG At: http://hwdftc.blogspot.com/

Make Highwood City government work! If the Mayor and City Council can't run things, it's up to you, the citizens and business owners to do it for them...for yourself.

From left to right: Chimp from HP, Chimp from LF; Chimp from DFLD, commenting at Zoning Meeting REMEMBER, DON'T FEAR THE TRAINED CHIMPS, FLYING MONKEYS, and INSINCERE SHILLS! THEY ARE LOUD, RUDE, IGNORANT, AND HARMLESS! THE CITY BELONGS TO YOU, NOT VINCE'S OUT OF TOWN "CHIMP BRIGADE" THAT HE MUSTERS TO ATTEND MEETINGS, INTIMIDATE AND STIFLE PUBLIC COMMENT. REMEMBER THAT EVEN MILD MANNERED DOROTHY BEAT THE WICKED WITCH'S FLYING MONKEYS.

Thank you for your interest.

Highwood Towers Bulletin #3

URGENT! HIGHWOOD TOWERS BULLETIN #3 - January 15, 2007
Bookmark the FTC Web site: http://hwdftc.home.comcast.net
or Click this Link: From the Corner

Got a Suggestion or Comment? E:mail Us At: HWDLAW@aol.com

FTC's Motto - 2007

The Developer is coming! The Developer is coming! HIGHWOOD NEEDS YOUR HELP NOW!

HIGHWOOD TOWERS ZONING MEETING: On January 18th, 2007 at 7:00 PM the Plan Commission and Zoning Board will commence a new hearing for approval of MEGA Realty's nine story, mixed use Highwood Towers proposal. If you care about Highwood's future, you will be there.

Is This Your Idea of Highwood? Actual Rendering of the MEGA Proposal! And, this rendering may look much better than it actually will when constructed.

You will find the Highwood Towers Zoning submittal and related materials on that web site, available for download. In addition, these materials are available for inspection at Highwood City Hall. Further, FTC has provided the City with CD-ROMs containing the PDF materials. You can pick these up at City Hall.

The Mayor (Bruno Bertucci), his "Vince Team" members, and the City Administrator are hell bent on showing that they are really good at government. Except in this real world, they are trying to demonstrate it by approving the nine story Highwood Towers development in your back yard (if you live anywhere in Highwood it will be in your back yard).

The Vince Team's Next (First?) "Accomplishment" The Mayor should remember that FTC is still going out, enjoyed by its readers and forwarded by the readers to hundreds of others, worldwide. FTC is still exposing the folly of the Highwood Towers and trying to inform the readers in hope of bringing sanity to Highwood's government.

At the last Plan Commission/ZBA meeting in December, facing pressure from informed (and outraged citizens) Maria Lasday must have recognized her conflict (acting as ZBA Chair and Acting City Administrator) and the Plan Commission and Zoning Board decided to republish and reopen the Hearing. The Hearing will commence AGAIN on January 18th, 2007 at 7:00 PM at Highwood City Hall.

Hopefully, this time these Boards will demand that:
The developer present real evidence as to why these substantial zoning deviations should even be considered;
Recognize that these entitlements cannot be granted, because the developer cannot legally justify these deviations--it is factually impossible;
Demand that the City perform its own due diligence studies, instead of simply accepting the developer's self serving studies;
Demand staff recommendations and written reports regarding these proposals, including:
A detailed report on the buildings effect from the City Planners. This should include an explanation of how the building can even be considered in light of the findings in the City's Official Comprehensive Plan;
A detailed engineering report regarding the impact on the City's water, sewer, drainage; infrastructure, etc.
A detailed City sponsored traffic study. A study that does not simply analyze the developer's nonsensical (and inconsistent) assumptions; but a traffic study that starts from scratch;
A detailed City sponsored fiscal impact study. A study that does not simply analyze the developer's nonsensical (and inconsistent) assumptions; but a fiscal impact study that starts from scratch;
An analysis of the true costs to the City by this development; and payment of real, substantial impact fees and donations to the City (not the pittance negotiated by our City Administrator) so the taxpayers are not left holding the bag! Remember the 20% (200K) tax increase...you ain't seen nothing yet.);
A detailed City sponsored parking study. A study that does not simply analyze the developer's nonsensical (and inconsistent) assumptions; but a parking study that starts from scratch;
Take the time to hear public comment (no unnecessary 5 minute limitations);
Continue the Hearing as necessary, to direct the staff and developer to bring back necessary information;
After all, the Plan Commission, Zoning Board and City Council work for you, for the benefit of the City, not for the fat cat Development Team. Attend and remind them.

MEGA Realty preparing for demo of Hotel Moraine. "What do they know?"
Remember, this won't happen magically. It will only happen based on your hard work. Come to the Hearing. Bring a friend or family member. Speak up (you can bet the Mayor and the Developer will pack the audience with their trained chimps, flying monkeys and insincere shills). Demand accountability, investigation and diligence from the Boards. Make Highwood City government work! If the Mayor and City Council can't run things, it's up to you, the citizens and business owners to do it for them...for yourself.

From left to right: Chimp from HP, Chimp from LF; Chimp from DFLD, commenting at Zoning Meeting REMEMBER, DON'T FEAR THE TRAINED CHIMPS, FLYING MONKEYS, and INSINCERE SHILLS! THEY ARE LOUD, RUDE, IGNORANT, AND HARMLESS! THE CITY BELONGS TO YOU, NOT VINCE'S OUT OF TOWN "CHIMP BRIGADE" THAT HE MUSTERS TO ATTEND MEETINGS, INTIMIDATE AND STIFLE PUBLIC COMMENT. REMEMBER THAT EVEN MILD MANNERED DOROTHY BEAT THE WICKED WITCH'S FLYING MONKEYS.

Please advise if you would like to be removed from the service list, or if you know of anyone that would like to receive future Newsletters or information. Also, got any news, info, articles to contribute or story ideas? Let me know.

Hoping for a better Highwood tomorrow, through your involvement today!Thank you for your interest.
Paul P. Diambri
Law Offices of Diambri & Caravello
300 Green Bay Road
Highwood, IL 60040
Phone: 847-433-2800
Fax: 847-433-7270
E-mail: HWDLAW@aol.com

Highwood Towers Bulletin #2

Bookmark the FTC Web site: http://hwdftc.home.comcast.net
or Click this Link: From the Corner

FROM THE CORNER - URGENT HIGHWOOD TOWERS BULLETIN #2 - January 14, 2007

HIGHWOOD NEEDS YOUR HELP NOW!

FTC Special Edition -- Guest Columnist
Mary L. Sfasciotti, Esq.

Introduction
FTC welcomes comments and contributions from its readers. We first brought you a commentary from former Mayor Sirotti on the outrageous actions of the City Council in levying a 20% tax hike without showing any need or justification. The Highwood Towers proposal is likewise generating a lot of interest from people who have reviewed the proposal. Today's FTC is entirely devoted to some thoughtful commentary from Mary Sfasciotti. I have never had the pleasure of meeting her, but I have corresponded with her on the Highwood Towers proposal. I also know that:
She is a resident of the Highwood portion of the Town of Fort Sheridan Subdivision;
She is an attorney, who is deeply devoted to several volunteer causes; has chaired Bar association Committees (If you doubt her credentials, do a quick Google search on her recent volunteerism);
In addition to the info provided by FTC, she has been actively engaged in seeking other information, from other sources regarding the Developer and the Highwood Towers proposal;
She has researched the developer's background;
She has distributed this information within Fort Sheridan (but doesn't have FTC's resources to widely distribute it); so
She has graciously agreed to allow this material to be posted to THE NEW FTC WEB SITE, and distributed directly by e-mail.
In addition to the countless hours expended by today's guest columnist, many others are doing similar meticulous research. I can assure you of two things:
None of this would have been possible without the Developer's materials being distributed by FTC. None of this information came from City Hall voluntarily. As a matter of fact, the Mayor actually tried to suppress their distribution. He actually threatened a resident who obtained the materials before the first hearing. To paraphrase "You better return that book, it doesn't belong to you. Besides you will just give it to Diambri/FTC!"). What a shock! The Mayor should be complimenting the resident for their civic interest, and welcoming a review and distribution by the former City Attorney! What is he hiding?
That despite the meager resources available, FTC and its readers/contributors have done far more research and due diligence on the Highwood Towers than the City and it's staff have. WOW!

ONCE AGAIN, The hearing is January 18, 2007 at 7:00 PM at Highwood City Hall. FTC will bring you more info as the hearing approaches. It is critical that you ATTEND AND EXPRESS YOUR OPINIONS! The trained Chimps, flying monkeys and insincere shills certainly will.

Mary's comments follow. They were written just before the release of the new zoning submittal so some of the numbers are slightly off, but the analysis is still sound. The comments and the supporting documents are also attached as a PDF file for your printing convenience.

A Message From Mary L. Sfasciotti, Esq.
Mary Sfasciotti Photo Unavailable, FTC Simulation

On January 18, 2007, the Highwood Plan Commission and Zoning Board will hold a second hearing to decide whether the property now occupied by the Moraine Restaurant and Hotel should be zoned to permit the development of two nine-story retail/residential "Highwood Towers" containing 172-198 apartments and first floor commercial space. This proposed development will be situated next to North Shore Estates. The developers are Chrisoula Kozinis, President of Mega Properties, Inc. and her husband, Demetrios L. Kozinis, President of Delko Construction Co. and Metron Plumbing. (Exhibits A and B).

The proposed "project manager" for Highwood Towers will be Matthew Andelman, a recent college graduate, whose achievements include being honored as the 2003 Caddie of the Year by the St. Charles Country Club. (Exhibit C).

This husband and wife team have developed similar retail/residential condos in Chicago for the Jefferson Park area, which they tried to push through despite protests of residents that the project would bring more population density and traffic congestion to the area and would devalue their $500,000+ homes. (Exhibits D). The City of Chicago eliminated older stores on the site through the power of eminent domain. But there was a shop that refused to sell, went to court and won the case. (Exhibit E). However, the Kozinis have caused a lot of problems. (Exhibit F) . People beware!
I am concerned about this project and you should be as well. Why? Let me tell you, why: Highwood Towers will be a condominium consisting of 172-198 one and two bedroom condos, situated next door to the 252 decaying North Shore Estates apartment complex. There will be 430 or 450 residential units in a block-long area along Sheridan Road adjacent to Fort Sheridan homes. This is POPULATION DENSITY!
The Koznis' marketing plans are to sell their condos to "empty nesters"(widows and widowers) and "affluent buyers from Lake Forest, Fort Sheridan and Highland Park." Are there that many widows and widowers in Highwood who want to shell out a minimum of $217,000 +for a one-bedroom apartment? Would any "affluent buyer" from Fort Sheridan or Lake Forest want to buy a 750 sq. ft. apartment that has Formica counter tops and vinyl kitchen and bathroom floors?
What will Sheridan Road between Old Elm and Washington Streets look like after this project is built?
Two gas stations at either end; Four or five strip malls ( maybe six with the shops at Highwood Towers); One McDonald drive through restaurant, with a parking lot; One Starbucks drive-through coffee shop with a parking lot; One funeral home with a large parking lot; One overcrowded, roach and mold-infected residential complex consisting of 252 apartments inhabited by lower income folks, with outdoor parking; One 164-198-unit building inhabited by elderly widows, widowers and "affluent seniors".

A total of 430-450 residential units in a one-mile stretch of Sheridan Road, immediately adjacent to Fort Sheridan, with parking lots.

Does the City of Highwood or its Zoning and Planning Board care about the traffic congestion, the air and noise pollution, in a mile-long stretch on Sheridan Road and the inevitable diminishment of the quality of life for the entire area, and especially the Fort Sheridan residents? Can you imagine longer lines of vehicles at the stop lights at Elm Street and Washington Street, once the new housing units are occupied? And all those trucks going and coming, from the West to the East, North and South during construction of 220 Navy residential units at the South End of Fort Sheridan and the 552 new units for the Town of Fort Sheridan? Did the City of Highwood or its Boards and - Commissions undertake any independent impact studies? No! THIS IS NEGLIGENCE!

The developer is asking the City and the Zoning Committee to use a "recent" 2000 Illinois Department of Transportation Traffic Map showing that Sheridan Road had an average of 11,900 vehicles traveling Sheridan Road. In 2000, Fort Sheridan was a dirt pile. THIS IS NONSENSE!
Have the elected officials of the City of Highwood made full disclosure of any ties to the Kozinis, who are generous political contributors? Exhibit G.
Is this project a done deal between the developers, the city fathers and mothers? Why isn't the City encouraging the Kozinis to build at the South end of Highwood's business district which looks like a dump and can use some improvement?
Please, come to the meeting on January 18, 2007.

Signed: Mary L. Sfasciotti
Highwood, IL
E-mail: sfaslaw@ameritech.net
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HIGHWOOD TOWERS ZONING MEETING: On January 18th, 2007 at 7:00 PM the Plan Commission and Zoning Board will commence a new hearing for approval of MEGA Realty's nine story, mixed use Highwood Towers proposal. If you care about Highwood's future, you will be there.

You will find the Highwood Towers Zoning submittal and related materials on the web site (http://hwdftc.home.comcast.net or From the Corner) available for download. In addition, these materials are available for inspection at Highwood City Hall. Further, FTC has provided the City with CD-ROMs containing the PDF materials. You can pick these up at City Hall.

Please advise if you would like to be removed from the service list, or if you know of anyone that would like to receive future Newsletters or information. Also, got any news, info, articles to contribute or story ideas? Let me know.

Thank you for your interest.

PS - Remember, the FTC "Year in Review" is coming soon!

Paul P. Diambri
Law Offices of Diambri & Caravello
300 Green Bay Road
Highwood, IL 60040
Phone: 847-433-2800
Fax: 847-433-7270
E-mail: HWDLAW@aol.com

Highwood Towers Bulletin #1

URGENT HIGHWOOD TOWERS BULLETIN - January 13, 2007

"Highwood Needs You Now - No One Else Is Watching The Store!"
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Vince's Supporters -- The Chimps, Flying Monkeys and
Insincere Shills, Will Be There To Support This Nine Story Mistake
HIGHWOOD NEEDS YOUR HELP NOW!

The following is long but worth it!

HIGHWOOD TOWERS ZONING MEETING: On January 18th, 2007 at 7:00 PM the Plan Commission and Zoning Board will commence a new hearing for approval of MEGA Realty's nine story, mixed use Highwood Towers proposal. If you care about Highwood's future, you will be there.

Is This Your Idea of Highwood? Actual Rendering of the MEGA Proposal!

INFORMATION AVAILABLE: FTC has been planning a Web site to insure that information is readily available to Highwood and our surrounding communities without needing to rely solely on e-mail. The future FTC web site is being carefully planned, and promises to be a real asset to Highwood (especially since the City is in "lock down" mode has essentially abandoned any communication with the public. The City web site is out of date and the City Newsletter is an embarrassment. The last City Newsletter didn't mention Highwood Towers, the tax levy, or the City Administrator debacle).

FTC Launches WEB Site

However, because of the urgency of the Highwood Towers hearing, FTC has launched a temporary web site (FTC Lite). THE ADDRESS IS: http://hwdftc.home.comcast.net/
and HERE IS THE LINK: From the Corner

You will find the Highwood Towers Zoning submittal and related materials on that web site, available for download. How sad it is that volunteers need to bring you the info that the City can't bring you, or doesn't want you to have!

In addition, these materials are available for inspection at Highwood City Hall. Further, FTC has provided the City with CD-ROMs containing the PDF materials. You can pick these up at City Hall. Of course, it is embarrassing that in over a month, the City has not updated it's own web site to make these materials available. It takes the efforts of the FTC volunteers to inform the public.
The City was not able to copy it's own CD-ROMs. FTC had to do it for them.
Apparently, the City has not requested that the Developer (that's the guy that stands to make millions) to:
Reproduce extra copies of the booklets; Make CD-ROMs;
Post the materials on the MEGA site; or Have MEGA pay for the consultant to update the City Web site.
(Even though FTC {and others} have made these suggestions to the City, in the Newsletter; in e-mails; at the zoning hearing; and at City Council meetings. The City didn't even need to think these things up, simply do what the City has done in the past, or just listen to FTC's advice. How Pathetic.

FTC Spreads The Word. Why Is the HP News & The City of Highwood MIA? Vince's Trained Chimps and Flying monkeys have accused FTC of "bashing" the City, or "trying to make the City look bad." The truth is the City is making itself look bad! FTC is only pointing out their continuing blunders. In other words, "The City is making the score, FTC is merely keeping count and announcing the results."

Before we look at the proposal and the process, you should know that since the last meeting, over a month ago, the City published for this new hearing. HOWEVER, THE DEVELOPER DID NOT SUBMIT ITS REVISED PROPOSAL UNTIL JANUARY 9th! IF THE DEVELOPER WAS GOING TO CHANGE THE PROPOSAL, THE CITY SHOULD NOT HAVE EVEN SCHEDULED THE NEW HEARING UNTIL THE CITY RECEIVED THE NEW SUBMITTAL. If the Developer is unable to supply the materials on time, it is the Developer that is slowing down the process, not the City. The Developer should not be allowed to move forward, due to their lack of diligence. It is unfair to the City, and you the residents. The Board members should have been studying this important proposal for a month, not scanning it at the last minute due to the developer's failure to supply it (intentionally?) Was MEGA Late On Purpose?

The Developer has changed the proposal. It is still nine stories, but MEGA is now proposing more commercial space (31,000 square feet) and marginally fewer units (168). The development requires numerous variances/departures from the Highwood Zoning Code and the Special Use requirements. It also appears that the City will be allowing MEGA to construct its access roadway/parking spaces on City parkland!

WHY DO YOU NEED TO BE THERE? CAN'T THE CITY HANDLE THIS THEMSELVES?

Unlike the financial world, PAST PERFORMANCE IS AN INDICATION OF FUTURE PERFORMANCE. Remember, the City approved the first proposal in less than two hours to the stunned amazement of everyone, other than the Developer, and whoever wrote the scripted comments for the Plan Commission Chair, his "wing man" and the former ZBA chair and her "wing woman". It seemed like the other members of the Boards wanted to slow the process down, but were too timid, inexperienced; or lacked the knowledge to turn the tide of this staged event. See "....wool...eyes."

Remember, last time, there was absolutely no staff review of MEGA's proposal, or staff recommendations. In other words, for probably the first time in modern history, a developer's proposal was PERFECT. The ZBA and PC made no recommendations for a single change! BUT, IN ALL FAIRNESS. HOW CAN THESE VOLUNTEERS DO THEIR JOB, UNLESS THE CITY PROVIDES THEM WITH THE EXPERTISE, TOOLS, AND ADVICE THEY NEED, AND HAVE COME TO RELY ON IN THE PAST?


Highwood Staff Review of the Highwood Towers
This time, there is no staff review because the Developer didn't even bother to make its submittal until this week! How can there be any detailed review? BTW, some FTC volunteers have already done an initial review of the new submittal. It's no surprise that the submittal is riddled with more inconsistencies and holes than a slice of Swiss Cheese!

MEGA's Highwood Towers Proposal
The first proceedings were so tainted and botched that for the first time ever, the ZBA and PC had to start over! In an incredible embarrassment to Highwood; a tremendous waste of money and resources for all involved; the first inkling that the Boards recognized their error, and the public sentiment against the Towers; the City pulled the plug and just started over. Or, was it because FTC pointed out that the process was flawed, and the City and the Developer wanted to make sure the process was not successfully challenged later?

Where's the Mayor? We're Lost! Also, it appears that there is no one at the wheel of the Highwood Ship of State. Look at this embarrassing statement from Thursday's HP News about an equally important issue, Highwood's 20% tax increase: "Neither Mayor Vincent Donofrio nor interim City Administrator Maria Lasday returned multiple telephone calls for their comments for this story." This exemplifies the Highwood Administration's recent Highwood "ostrich mentality".

Highwood's Vision


That HP News article also makes a startling statement about Highwood's government. They are inexperienced beginners! Of course, this is directly attributable to Highwood's Mayor, who has crippled the City Council's resources, and the staff's ability to seek professional advice. Look at the startling comments in this week's HP News, about the tax levy:
"Highwood City Council members will reconsider their tax levy vote to seek a 20 percent property tax increase...some of them now describe as a mistake. Three people who attended Finance Committee meetings at which the decision was made said that a mistake occurred which can be undone...The opportunity to make mistakes can be a part of the process...(The City Council) erroneously used the mind-set of a non-home rule community... (Alderman) Pecaro admitted that the complexity of the process and the recent change from non-home to home rule status resulted in a decision that is now widely derided. "We were under the gun," Pecaro said. "Not having done this, we looked like beginners. We made beginner's mistakes."...As a result, many budget issues were brought up that had not been considered."

FTC's Motto - 2007
Well, FTC has an important bulletin for you readers. The tax levy and municipal finance is a snap compared to complex zoning decisions. The tax levy is formulaic, a simple budget and accounting function. And the City messed that up.

Zoning requires thought, study, prediction, and a sensitivity to community needs. It requires a knowledge of the City's history and a vision for the City's future. It also requires years of technical and legal knowledge of what the Developer and the City are permitted to do. It requires a detailed professional, independent analysis BY THE CITY of the impacts of the development. A document request to the City indicates that NONE OF THIS WAS DONE!

"Tradition, Unity Growth" - Highwood's Old Motto

Highwood's (Vince's) New Moto:

So what? You may ask. Well, the rookie mistakes that were made in the City's Tax Levy were in a piece of paper that can be fixed with another piece of paper. A mistake in a zoning decision results in nine stories and tons of concrete, steel, bricks, and glass. That rookie zoning mistake can't be undone. If such a mistake is made, it will last for decades. It will change the character of Highwood forever. Worst of all, it will set a precedent that will allow other similar developments! Is Highwood going to become a concrete canyon? Is that your vision for Highwood? Is that why you bought your home, brought your business, or visit Highwood?

Is FTC saying that the sky is falling? Three words "North Shore Estates". That erroneous decision in 1968 (while the current Mayor, Vince Donofrio was on the City Council!) resulted in a disastrous development that has been an albatross around Highwood's neck for four decades. And it continues to be a problem, draining City resources; damaging Highwood's image; and de-valuing your investment in the community. Try to imagine Highwood with no North Shore Estates!

FTC predicts that if the Towers is approved, it will result in the same disastrous results. Of course Vince won't be around to deal with it. He has already said that he won't run again. He will probably resign before he finishes. Vince is an old and bitter man. He will declare victory (see "Mission Accomplished") celebrate his "great accomplishment", and let the next 20 administrations deal with the mess of Vince's folly. Vince sees the Towers as a way to get the monkey of his failures off his back. He sees it as a monument to his deconstruction of the City of Highwood. Instead it will stand as an eternal testament to his stubbornness, ineptitude, and meanness. It will honor Highwood's most incompetent leader. But, it will also honor the incompetence of all those that let it happen. Any ZBA member that voted for it; any Plan Commission member that voted for it; any City planners that stood idly by; the City engineers that stood by; any resident silly enough to speak in favor of this proposal; the City attorneys that let this happen to Highwood (when it would never happen in any other town they represent...see "It's only Highwood!" and "I don't want to piss off the Mayor and loose my paycheck, which is double of Paul's fees for less work."). But FTC will make sure that in addition to Vince being accountable, the City Administrator, Maria Lasday, and any alderman supporting this proposal is held even more accountable! Maria may not have experience, but she is far more intelligent than Vince. Her support of this is inexplicable. And any alderman, since they live in Highwood, should be ashamed of not only the process, but even sending this proposal to the ZBA/PC.

BTW, in the slim chance that the Towers is not an utter disaster, Vince won't get the credit anyway. It will go to the real Mayor, the puppeteer, Bruno Bertucci. After all, he (as the paid director of the Highwood Chamber) is getting a fountain in the Everts Park instead of any prior Mayor! Go figure.

You know Vince, if you need a phallic symbol, get some Viagra, buy a Corvette, or get the "Adam & Eve" Catalog (they have a full assortment).

Simulation of Vince Inspecting the Highwood Towers Proposal

Go back, and look at the zoning materials for the North Shore Estates proposal. They contain the same "pretty pictures" as Highwood Towers...well dressed people strolling under tree lined canopies, in front of a beautiful building, with nice cars parked in the foreground. (BTW every proposal submitted by a developer looks like that.)

Maria's Great Negotiation - Hope The Plan Commission Steps In!

The "municipal donations" for North Shore Estates made the 'municipal donations" for Highwood Towers look like a bad tip at a greasy spoon. Did you know that (among other things) the developer of NSE donated the land, and built an indoor Olympic size pool for the City! The Highwood Towers Developers are donating only $300,000 and a traffic light (for their convenience) and that's 40 years later! What chump change! Highwood alone should get a municipal donation of at least 2 million dollars. That is not even as much as the TFSC donated to Highwood alone, for the same number of units! And that's w/o the infrastructure improvements they also donated.

So, come on Thursday. Even if you are not a resident of Highwood. Keep Highwood from making the biggest zoning mistake in North Shore history!
Remember, it won't be easy. Come to the Hearing. Bring a friend or family member. Speak up (you can bet the Mayor and the Developer will pack the audience with their trained flying monkeys, trained chimps and insincere shills). Demand accountability, investigation and diligence from the Boards.

2007 is the year that you will make Highwood City government work. If the Mayor and City Council can't run things, it's up to you, the citizens and business owners to do it for them...for yourself. PARTICIPATE, AND MAKE YOUR VOICE BE HEARD.

From left to right: Chimp from HP, Chimp from LF; Chimp from DFLD, commenting at Zoning Meeting REMEMBER, DON'T FEAR THE CHIMPS, FLYING MONKEYS, and INSINCERE SHILLS! THEY ARE LOUD, RUDE, IGNORANT, AND HARMLESS! THE CITY BELONGS TO YOU, NOT VINCE'S OUT OF TOWN "CHIMP BRIGADE" THAT HE MUSTERS TO ATTEND MEETINGS, INTIMIDATE AND STIFLE PUBLIC COMMENT. AND, EVEN MILD MANNERED DOROTHY BEAT THE FLYING MONKEYS.

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Paul P. DiambriLaw Offices of Diambri & Caravello300 Green Bay RoadHighwood, IL 60040Phone: 847-433-2800Fax: 847-433-7270E-mail: HWDLAW@aol.com