Alderman Frost: After extended debate about cost and taxpayer impact, the City Council voted such that a committee denial of the ComEd Eleventh Street improvements failed 6‑7, producing a favorable committee report and triggering ordinance drafting.

Why it matters: The ComEd amended agreement for Phase 1 of Eleventh Street improvements is valued at $9,300,000 and would be funded through a local governance compliance source that Aldermen warned would effectively be a citywide charge on residents.

Debate highlights: Alderman Durkee and Alderman Frost led discussion arguing for undergrounding power lines for aesthetics and resilience, with Durkee urging staff to explore requiring surety bonds for decommissioning solar projects and arguing the city might seek conduit installation now to lower future costs. Alderman Frost said the project’s price is “prohibitive” for residents and emphasized that approval would mean a large tax burden if later phases proceed.

Outcome and procedure: The council vote reversed the committee’s recommended denial; as Director Hamer explained, that result operates as a favorable committee vote and an ordinance is required. Director Hamer said the ordinance will be placed on the June 16 council agenda.

Next steps and risk: Council discussion raised concerns about ComEd acting as sole contractor and about long‑term costs to residents and future phases. Several aldermen asked staff to explore options such as installing conduit now or competitive bidding and to clarify cost allocation across phases.

Implementation note: Because the item requires an ordinance, staff and legal will prepare ordinance language and supporting documents for the June 16 meeting.