Council approves $2.99M alley and pedestrian improvements after suspending rules

Evanston — The City Council on June 22 approved a nearly $3 million contract for alley and pedestrian crossing improvements after members voted to suspend new meeting rules to accept an amended borrowing plan.

Resolution 125‑R26 authorizes the city manager to execute an agreement with Zenith Construction and Engineering Services LLC for $2,990,595 for the 2026 Alley and Pedestrian Crossing Improvements (bid #2632). Before the final vote, council debated whether changes made at the Neighborhoods & Public Works committee to the project's financing constituted a "substantive amendment" that would require additional public notice.

City Engineer Laura Biggs explained the finance changes: staff moved $1 million from the general fund reserve into the special assessment fund to reduce the amount property owners would need to bond. That shift reduced the property‑owner special assessment liability and, officials said, removed the need to bond the owners' share this year.

Debate over procedure prompted Council Member Nusma to move a rule suspension under the council's new rules; the suspension passed 9–0, allowing a same‑night vote on the amended borrowing plan. The final roll call on the contract showed eight in favor and one against; the resolution passed and the contract award was authorized.

Council members and staff emphasized the mechanics: the city continues to bond its own share of the project and will use available special assessment funds to minimize immediate property‑owner bonding. Staff said remaining funds will be used to cover property‑owner shares in the next year if needed.

Outcome: Resolution 125‑R26 adopted; staff will proceed to execute the contract with Zenith Construction and begin project implementation.