WEBVTT

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I haven't heard that. That's exciting.

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Be patient, Tom.

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I will know soon. I forgive you.

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No, that's okay. That's fine.

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I'll tell you if there's a situation in the Senate, but we'll give them whatever works out.

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I will tell you, Tommy. I will find out.

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I know they were putting their permits on.

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Be patient.

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You will have a sub soon.

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Oh, you're shooting me, oh, I had a blast.

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I was waiting for my diamond.

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What?

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Did you get it?

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Come on, man.

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What is wrong with you?

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You can still work.

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There's plenty of time.

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No.

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Six o'clock.

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Good evening.

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Justin, could you please give the invocation this evening?

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Good evening.

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Just quickly before I pray I just wanted to say here towards the end of 2024 it's been

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about two years I think since I've come and prayed monthly and I know there are highs

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and lows, frustrations and joys to your discussions here but just as one person in Freeport I'm

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grateful for you guys' work, directors, chiefs, mayor, Mr. Zito, city planner, I know that

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it probably doesn't always feel like your work matters or is appreciated but it is and just thank

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you i'm grateful grateful for your work all of your work for our city would you please allow me

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to pray for you well father we thank you lord i give thanks on behalf of those here tonight for

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and

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John. Lord, we thank you for your good gifts that you pour out so

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freely upon us, your creation, the work of your hands. Lord, I

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thank you for the different gifts and personalities and

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abilities and callings represented here in this room.

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We thank you for this city, for our county. Lord, we thank you for the good work that

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has been done this year. We know that there is more to do. And yet, even as we come up

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on a Thanksgiving holiday in the very near future, Lord, we just stop to give thanks.

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and we do say thank you for all that you've strengthened and empowered and given wisdom

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and gifts to us to accomplish.

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And Father, I pray again for tonight's discussions.

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Pray for the work in the weeks ahead, even as winter draws near, as things finish up

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in the Public Works Department as far as summer and fall goes and transition into winter.

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Lord pray that you would help in terms of equipment and personnel

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Pray that all involved would have the opportunity to enjoy the upcoming holidays and truly find

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some

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Rest and time to rejoice in the works this past year and again pray that you bless the time tonight give wisdom

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We pray in Jesus name. Amen

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Thank you, Pastor Justin, and I'd also just like to take a moment to say thank you to

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Alderman Shadle for carrying out last week's Committee of the Whole as I was at the National

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League of Cities Conference.

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It is truly my honor to serve as a director on that board and representing Freeport in

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sharing best practices, ideas, and solutions with fellow municipal leaders across the country.

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So with that, we'll officially call this meeting to order.

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Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

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Mayor Miller?

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Alderpersons, Klemm, Monroe, Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, and Sellers here.

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And if you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Stacey.

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I pledge allegiance to the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty.

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Item number one is the approval of the agenda. I believe that as per request of Alderman Monroe,

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he would like to remove item number 30 and place it on the December COW. With that,

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is there a motion to approve the agenda? Alderman Monroe. I would make a motion to adopt the agenda.

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I would like to make a request that we return to live camera feed after the executive session as

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Bickel, Frederick, John, Brad, John, and for the record, we have a motion on the agenda.

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We have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Klemm for the approval of the agenda.

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All those in favor signify by saying aye.

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Opposed?

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That motion passes.

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Item number two is approval of the minutes from the regular meeting on November 4, 2022.

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Is there a motion to approve?

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So moved.

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Second.

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Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

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All those in favor signify by saying aye.

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Aye.

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Opposed?

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That motion passes.

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We have quite a few signed up for tonight's public comment.

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We'll start with Kevin Lamb.

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Members of council, Madam Mayor, city manager.

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I wanted to come before you to talk about the agenda tonight,

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not a particular item.

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This stack represents 405 pages. My concern is if I got an agenda that was 405 pages long of minutes, contracts, memos, leases, item after item, I know this is a bigger one than usual, but I cannot imagine an alderman trying to read all of that from Friday until now, not just to read all of that, but to read all of that.

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Reed, but to know it to understand it to talk with my constituents to be able to

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figure out should I be in favor of it should I not this is a disservice this

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is a disservice to the aldermen this is a disservice to the constituents that

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they represent and again I would want to return to you will have an opportunity

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you the aldermen can change this there's no willingness by the city manager but

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you have the you have the power to change this and make it so that you get

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and

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the

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board of trustees.

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I know there was discussion earlier about being prepared, being

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represented, reading all the stuff. How in the hell do you

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think you're going to read all of that stuff before this meeting

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when you got it Friday? I haven't the slightest idea. I doubt

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if anybody here does. And I think you should change that.

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My agenda this evening is the resolution for Bird City, Illinois, so I wanted to give a little background. Bird City, Illinois was established for the state of Illinois in 2021 and Freeport was one of the first of three cities to earn this designation alongside Rockford and Waukegan.

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Part of the requirements for Bird City is to fulfill a minimum of nine actions, including an annual proclamation for World Migratory Bird Day, which we do every year in May, as well as a passing of a resolution for Bird City, Illinois every three years.

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The requirement is this to ensure that municipalities consistently think of environmental impacts when making certain decisions, particularly those that affect birds and other wildlife.

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The renewal process also acts as a chance to update and educate current and new council members who may be unaware of the recognition.

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of the recognition.

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On behalf of the Northwest Illinois Audubon Society

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who led this charge and donated the application fee,

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I want to thank the city, the Freeport Park District,

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the Freeport Public Library, University of Illinois

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Extension, Jane Addams Land Park Foundation, Freeport Student

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Garden, Environmental Study Group, Park Hills Golf Course,

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and Bluebird Monitoring Volunteers,

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and the Pretzel Pickers.

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In 2021, Freeport met 18 criteria.

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But this year, thanks to these groups,

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Freeport met 29 criteria. I thank the support of the council members who see

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the benefit of being a bird city of Illinois and help make our Freeport

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community healthier for birds and people. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Juliet.

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Next is Rhonda Scott. Good evening. I'm here to speak on three agenda items with

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just bringing up some questions that you might want to think about when you're

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going over some of these items. The first one was item number 14 and that was the

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and

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I'm going to ask you a question.

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I know that you're going to have a $1 lease of a vehicle

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from the senior citizens, or no, senior center.

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The city would lease it for $1.

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So I just happen to ask an older person,

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well, do you know when you lease it for $1,

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do you know what you're getting into?

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Do you know the other costs?

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Because we've had this situation where you lease a parking lot

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to somebody for $1, and then you don't

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know what's going to happen, what your expenses are.

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Maybe they don't change.

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with a vehicle, naturally you're gonna have maintenance,

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insurance and all the costs that come with a vehicle.

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So my question really is, wouldn't you wanna know

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like what budget it's gonna come from

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and if the resources are already there?

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I did do a little research and found that Mayor Gitz

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had reported to the Journal Standard back in October 2016

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that the money for a lot of the vehicles

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came from an IDOT grant, which is super,

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means the state probably paid for the vehicles.

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And then there was a fund called

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the Downstate Operating Assistant Grant,

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which provides funding for, I'm assuming,

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operation of these vehicles.

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It really just helps public transportation in cities.

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So it's great if we have that budget

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and it will pay for those costs.

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But I think as older people, and when I ask a question,

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do you know how much it's gonna cost me as a taxpayer

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to, you know, are you gonna increase my taxes

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So you can pay for the cost on this $1 leased vehicle.

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It'd be nice if you understood what was going on

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and could tell me.

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I did review the notes, and the notes asked everybody

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to go ahead and approve it because it'd be a good deal

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to add that vehicle to our fleet, which I agree with.

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But when you make a memo to other people, what we do here

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is about allocating funds.

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And it seems like it should be transparent as to where

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the money's going to come for.

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When you're leasing a vehicle, who's

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and

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John.

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I would like to know what the cost is.

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I would like to know how much it costs to pay for all of those

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costs and what fund it is coming from.

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As a member of the public, I would like to know.

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The other concern I had was there is going to be a discussion

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on a grant that was being offered to rehab on a house at

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1010 Adams and grants are great.

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and others.

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So I'm thinking, why are we spending $48,000 to fix up that house when all the other ones

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look so bad and probably, you know, do we have any criteria?

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This person who's getting his house fixed up also, I have been told, owns 12 other properties.

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Thank you, Rhonda. Your time has expired.

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Okay, thank you.

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Thank you.

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Thanks a lot.

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And then we have Molly Doolittle and Candy Colby.

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Good evening, everyone.

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Tonight, I would just like to express my support for the ordinance, which would allow residents

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of Freeport to use native plants in the home landscaping.

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And I'd just like to outline a few reasons why I think this is a good idea and would

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would be worthy of the council's approval.

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So generally speaking, a native plant is one which has existed within this region before

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settlement by Europeans.

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Native plants include ferns, grasses, perennial and annual wildflowers, woody trees, shrubs,

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and vines.

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And there are actually many benefits to the use of native plants in the landscape.

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Huffines.

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First of all, plants native to the Midwest are adapted to our harshest winters.

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They tolerate drought and they flourish in our local soils.

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They do not require fertilizers or pesticides.

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So they're inherently low maintenance and they can save time and money.

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They require less water than lawns and help prevent erosion.

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And the deep root systems of many native Midwestern plants increase the soil's capacity to store

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for water. So, native plants can reduce water runoff and consequently flooding, which can

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sometimes overwhelm our storm sewer systems. Native plant scapes do not require mowing.

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They provide shelter and food for birds and pollinators. And as many of you know, a lot

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and a lot of these species are in decline, unfortunately.

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And native plants promote biodiversity and stewardship of our natural heritage.

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Plus, they are beautiful and increase scenic values, as I think you can see from the photos we're distributing.

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Finally, native plants make healthy places for people.

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The lawns and the bark mulch landscapes that we commonly see are notorious for requiring

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profuse amounts of artificial fertilizers and synthetic chemical pesticides and herbicides.

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According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the traditional suburban lawn on average has

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10 times more chemical pesticides per acre than farmland.

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So by choosing native plants for our landscaping, we can help wildlife, yes, but we also create

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a healthier place for ourselves, our families, and our community.

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I thank you for this opportunity.

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Thank you.

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Next is Ashley Heilman.

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Hello, everyone.

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I am here this evening to speak with no opposition for the changes presented this evening for

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agenda item number six.

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I want to first thank Doug with the community development for working with me to address

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Boyer.

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I would like to thank the city manager for reaching out to us for feedback and suggestions

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to the changes presented this evening.

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My hope is going forward that the continued open dialogue with this registry will help

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the city as well as the landlords.

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With an open line of communication, it can only make things better.

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The one ask that I have is please make sure that this change is communicated on the newsletter

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that is going out in the coming months from the city.

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Thank you again and I have no opposition to the changes presented this evening.

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Thank you.

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Neely.

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Good evening Mayor Miller and thank you for allowing me this moment to speak with the

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honorable council members.

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My name is Neely Erickson and I am the government affairs director for Illinois Realtors.

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I am here today on behalf of the 1,300 members of the Northwest Illinois Alliance of Realtors.

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We appreciate the discussion being held tonight regarding the proposed changes to the property

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rental registration program.

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We acknowledge the City's efforts to collaborate with stakeholders, including our members,

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to address concerns and develop a framework aimed at improving compliance with registration

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requirements and addressing problem properties.

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We have no opposition to the ordinance.

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We recognize that the enhanced penalties for noncompliance are intended to encourage greater

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participation in the program, which is the ordinance's goal.

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The success of the ordinance will rely on the City's commitment to active enforcement.

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While mailing notifications to suspected rental properties is a step forward, consistent follow-up

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and enforcement will be essential to bring these properties into compliance.

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We stand ready to assist in these efforts and collaborate with the City to ensure the

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program's effectiveness to minimize the unintended consequences to the housing providers who

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who are complying with the law, which is 33%.

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The ordinance employs late fees as a penalty

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for non-compliance, but structures them in a way

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that encourages timely adherence.

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This approach is significant as these fees

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can unfortunately have indirect impact on tenants.

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Thank you again for the opportunity to provide comments

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and to your thoughtful consideration on this matter.

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We appreciate the city's work on this issue

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and look forward to continued collaboration

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on initiatives that support the broader community.

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Thank you.

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That concludes public comments.

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We'll move on to consent agenda.

00:19:57.000 --> 00:19:59.039
The consent agenda.

00:20:28.210 --> 00:20:29.210
Miller.

00:20:29.210 --> 00:20:37.049
A new checking account required by the DCEO for the Community Development Block Grant.

00:20:37.049 --> 00:20:44.809
Approval of the finance bills payable in the total of $3,122,664.47.

00:20:44.809 --> 00:20:52.930
Approval of the payroll from pay period ending November 2, 2024 in the total of $646,040.92

00:20:52.930 --> 00:20:57.490
and reports for finance and cash investments for September 2024.

00:20:57.490 --> 00:20:59.730
Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda?

00:20:59.730 --> 00:21:00.569
So I'll move.

00:21:00.569 --> 00:21:01.410
Second.

00:21:01.410 --> 00:21:04.130
A motion made by Alderman Shadle,

00:21:04.130 --> 00:21:06.690
seconded by Alderman Sellers.

00:21:06.690 --> 00:21:08.730
Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll?

00:21:08.730 --> 00:21:09.569
Stacy?

00:21:10.890 --> 00:21:11.730
Aye.

00:21:11.730 --> 00:21:12.549
Shadle?

00:21:12.549 --> 00:21:13.390
Aye.

00:21:13.390 --> 00:21:14.230
Sanders?

00:21:14.230 --> 00:21:15.069
Aye.

00:21:15.069 --> 00:21:15.910
Sellers?

00:21:15.910 --> 00:21:16.750
Aye.

00:21:16.750 --> 00:21:17.569
Klemm?

00:21:17.569 --> 00:21:18.410
Aye.

00:21:18.410 --> 00:21:19.250
Monroe?

00:21:19.250 --> 00:21:20.069
No.

00:21:20.069 --> 00:21:20.910
Simmons?

00:21:20.910 --> 00:21:21.750
Aye.

00:21:21.750 --> 00:21:22.569
And Parker?

00:21:22.569 --> 00:21:23.410
Aye.

00:21:23.410 --> 00:21:24.250
The motion passes seven to one.

00:21:24.250 --> 00:21:25.529
And item number five is the second reading

00:21:25.529 --> 00:21:27.410
of Ordinance 2024-60.

00:21:27.410 --> 00:21:28.890
Could you please read this?

00:21:28.890 --> 00:21:32.809
Ordinance approving Airport Hangar M8 lease with David Hayes.

00:21:32.809 --> 00:21:33.309
Thank you.

00:21:33.309 --> 00:21:34.130
Manager Boyer.

00:21:34.130 --> 00:21:34.970
Thank you, Your Honor.

00:21:34.970 --> 00:21:36.690
As previously discussed, David Hayes

00:21:36.690 --> 00:21:39.569
is interested in leasing Hangar M8.

00:21:39.569 --> 00:21:44.450
The agreement, the cost of this lease is $165 per month.

00:21:44.450 --> 00:21:46.410
Staff recommends approval of this.

00:21:46.410 --> 00:21:49.450
And in addition to that, we anticipate

00:21:49.450 --> 00:21:53.329
having a market survey completed by the first meeting

00:21:53.329 --> 00:21:59.650
December for neighboring communities with airports approximately the same size in

00:21:59.650 --> 00:22:05.170
case that is a point of concern which was expressed last summer. So staff

00:22:05.170 --> 00:22:13.610
recommends moving forward with this lease. Any discussion? Alderman Stacey did

00:22:13.610 --> 00:22:21.329
you? Yeah. Yes, I just want to make sure that we the council have the understanding

00:22:21.329 --> 00:22:40.500
that come the first week of December, we will see a new lease, the document itself, so that

00:22:40.500 --> 00:22:47.180
we can look at it, go through it, if there's any changes, so that by the third week of

00:22:47.180 --> 00:22:56.420
December. It's finalized so that by January 1st all these hangers will have

00:22:56.420 --> 00:23:06.299
the proper new lease. That's correct. You'll have it before that. I'll have a

00:23:06.299 --> 00:23:12.099
you'll have a copy of the lease agreement before that. Okay. Alderman

00:23:12.099 --> 00:23:26.240
Sanders. Yeah, and on that subject as well, on the leasing agreement, do we have a process

00:23:26.240 --> 00:23:38.500
that we determine what the assessed value of each hanger when we're looking at quoting

00:23:38.500 --> 00:23:42.500
We don't have a monthly cost to lease these properties.

00:23:42.500 --> 00:23:55.299
Do we have an analytical analysis on why we decide to have these, quote, monthly costs

00:23:55.299 --> 00:24:03.940
and then who are the individuals or whoever they are is making these determinations?

00:24:03.940 --> 00:24:12.860
We don't have an understanding because we don't know who is signing the lease to allow any

00:24:12.860 --> 00:24:19.400
hangers to be in a position where it can be leased at all.

00:24:19.400 --> 00:24:27.480
So my question is, whose signatures are going to be provided for these clearances for these

00:24:27.480 --> 00:24:33.380
leases on city's property to give that?

00:24:33.380 --> 00:24:38.380
I thought it was something that the aldermen conduct,

00:24:39.619 --> 00:24:43.259
not the city manager to determine

00:24:43.259 --> 00:24:47.099
what the rental process of a lease would be.

00:24:47.099 --> 00:24:50.980
Now, if I stand corrected if I'm wrong,

00:24:50.980 --> 00:24:55.579
but if not, I'd like to see how we get to these quote,

00:24:55.579 --> 00:25:00.579
lease rates and that the aldermen are well informed

00:25:00.579 --> 00:25:20.579
We should have all of those evaluation documents before us that we can assess everything and see what took place and how we process things, because right now I'm having an issue with how we do things here, and so if I can't see it and get clarity, then I have a problem with that.

00:25:20.579 --> 00:25:27.139
I'm having an issue with how we do things here and so if I can't see it and get

00:25:27.139 --> 00:25:32.579
clarity then I have a problem with that and I don't I don't want to point

00:25:32.579 --> 00:25:39.700
fingers at anyone who is responsible for making those things happen so I'm not

00:25:39.700 --> 00:25:46.619
putting it all on the city manager if if it's if it's if it's up to him to make

00:25:46.619 --> 00:25:47.619
Fowler.

00:25:47.619 --> 00:25:55.259
I want to see the reinforcement behind it all to make, to help him because he's not

00:25:55.259 --> 00:26:02.779
just going to just do this thing solo, it's not, it's not what his job responsibility

00:26:02.779 --> 00:26:08.660
is to do everything solo without discussing it with the Aldermen's or the council.

00:26:08.660 --> 00:26:12.220
So that's all I have to say.

00:26:12.220 --> 00:26:18.059
Sanders. Are you asking about the amounts that the leases are for? Is that what your

00:26:18.059 --> 00:26:28.440
question was? No, I'm asking the question in regards to how we get from A to B when

00:26:28.440 --> 00:26:36.960
signing off on leases for anything. How do we get there? Attorney Zito? So with these

00:26:36.960 --> 00:26:41.279
leases, generally speaking, is that staff, whether it be the airport manager in

00:26:41.279 --> 00:26:42.279
and Cary.

00:26:42.279 --> 00:26:49.200
We'll talk to the proposed tenant who wants to either lease for the first time a hanger

00:26:49.200 --> 00:26:50.720
or renew their lease.

00:26:50.720 --> 00:26:52.920
They'll talk about what the terms and conditions are.

00:26:52.920 --> 00:26:57.880
The price for each hanger is set by an ordinance that was previously adopted by the City Council

00:26:57.880 --> 00:26:59.119
a few years ago.

00:26:59.119 --> 00:27:00.920
So that's where the price comes from.

00:27:00.920 --> 00:27:05.319
Certainly, if this council wants to change it, you guys can change the ordinance and

00:27:05.319 --> 00:27:06.920
adopt new prices.

00:27:06.920 --> 00:27:10.880
As times pass, markets change and everything like that.

00:27:40.880 --> 00:27:43.799
McClure lease right now is at second read.

00:27:43.799 --> 00:27:46.599
And then the ordinance authorizes, if you guys approve it,

00:27:46.599 --> 00:27:49.319
if you vote by majority, well, three fourths of majority

00:27:49.319 --> 00:27:51.920
to approve this lease, then it passes.

00:27:51.920 --> 00:27:54.720
And the ordinance authorizes the city manager

00:27:54.720 --> 00:27:57.839
then to sign the lease on behalf of the city.

00:27:57.839 --> 00:28:00.759
So that's kind of the general process.

00:28:02.160 --> 00:28:03.299
Alderman Monroe.

00:28:03.299 --> 00:28:04.360
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:28:04.360 --> 00:28:07.960
I think the topics that are being danced around here,

00:28:07.960 --> 00:28:11.299
Number one, are their lease rates,

00:28:11.299 --> 00:28:13.519
are they correct at this time and date?

00:28:13.519 --> 00:28:15.059
Because this was set many years ago,

00:28:15.059 --> 00:28:18.819
almost six years ago now, if I recall correctly.

00:28:18.819 --> 00:28:23.819
Number two, I think what Alderman Sanders is trying

00:28:23.980 --> 00:28:28.380
to point out is that these hangers are being occupied

00:28:28.380 --> 00:28:32.500
before we agree to the lease.

00:28:32.500 --> 00:28:34.019
And I think that that's the problem

00:28:34.019 --> 00:28:37.440
that's kind of presenting itself this evening.

00:28:37.440 --> 00:28:41.940
if city manager, for instance, decided to move city hall

00:28:41.940 --> 00:28:44.559
to another building, he would do so

00:28:44.559 --> 00:28:46.440
and then come back and ask for permission later.

00:28:46.440 --> 00:28:48.639
And that's not really the way this should be working.

00:28:48.639 --> 00:28:51.039
If these are gonna come in front of the council,

00:28:51.039 --> 00:28:54.639
they should come in front of the council in a timely manner.

00:28:54.639 --> 00:28:57.579
And if we need to, we should probably suspend the rules.

00:28:57.579 --> 00:29:00.900
Those kinds of things should be the order of how things work.

00:29:02.340 --> 00:29:04.500
I've done a bit of research on this.

00:29:04.500 --> 00:29:07.860
I do believe the rates are on the low side.

00:29:07.860 --> 00:29:12.220
I also believe back dating, you know, dating contracts

00:29:12.220 --> 00:29:15.539
two months before we're asked to do it, to agree to it,

00:29:15.539 --> 00:29:18.720
or a month and a half or whatever many days that might be

00:29:18.720 --> 00:29:20.480
is problematic.

00:29:20.480 --> 00:29:23.880
So those are the kinds of things that I think

00:29:23.880 --> 00:29:24.980
need to be addressed.

00:29:24.980 --> 00:29:27.779
There's also a lot of language in this lease agreement

00:29:27.779 --> 00:29:31.200
that probably isn't germane or valid anymore.

00:29:31.200 --> 00:29:34.900
that I believe needs an external review.

00:29:34.900 --> 00:29:38.039
I mean, you know, we're crossing out 2009, 2010.

00:29:38.039 --> 00:29:40.880
So these haven't been done in almost 15 years.

00:29:40.880 --> 00:29:43.400
So, you know, those are questions

00:29:43.400 --> 00:29:44.920
that really pop into mind.

00:29:44.920 --> 00:29:46.679
And I think we just need to do a better job

00:29:46.679 --> 00:29:49.840
of managing that on the front end

00:29:49.840 --> 00:29:52.119
in order to clean up the process here.

00:29:53.159 --> 00:29:54.000
My two cents.

00:29:56.000 --> 00:30:01.559
Any other discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

00:30:01.559 --> 00:30:13.759
Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye.

00:30:13.759 --> 00:30:25.720
And Parker? Aye. The ordinance passes 7 to 1. Item number 6 is the first reading of

00:30:25.720 --> 00:30:30.759
ordinance 20-24-62. Could you please read this? Ordinance revising registration

00:30:30.759 --> 00:30:34.119
Deadline, and Increasing Landlord Registry Penalty.

00:30:34.119 --> 00:30:36.119
Director Duckman.

00:30:36.119 --> 00:30:38.559
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:30:38.559 --> 00:30:40.640
Just wanted to start by saying I apologize.

00:30:40.640 --> 00:30:44.960
The incorrect memo was attached to the agenda.

00:30:44.960 --> 00:30:48.839
So essentially, I'm going to go over here some of the fines

00:30:48.839 --> 00:30:50.680
that were finally agreed upon.

00:30:50.680 --> 00:30:54.319
The actual ordinance that was part of your packet was correct.

00:30:54.319 --> 00:30:57.039
So in the ordinance, you received the correct fines,

00:30:57.039 --> 00:31:00.599
correct deadlines, but the memo was incorrect.

00:31:00.599 --> 00:31:05.599
So I apologize for that. It was just, we attached the wrong, staff had the wrong memo attached.

00:31:05.599 --> 00:31:07.599
Do you have a copy, Director Duckman?

00:31:07.599 --> 00:31:15.599
I do not have a copy of the updated memo, but I do have the, you received the correct ordinance with the right, correct deadlines.

00:31:15.599 --> 00:31:24.599
So I'll go over it slowly and just kind of let you know what, there wasn't much that changed from that original memo.

00:31:24.599 --> 00:31:32.039
Mo. So apologies for that. Let me just start by saying what's changed here. So before this

00:31:32.039 --> 00:31:40.240
proposed ordinance, the deadline for registration was June 31st. Okay. What's being proposed

00:31:40.240 --> 00:31:46.160
in this ordinance is a deadline to register of January 31st of each calendar year. So

00:31:46.160 --> 00:31:48.440
That's what's being proposed.

00:31:48.440 --> 00:31:55.000
Now for this current year, meaning coming 2025,

00:31:55.000 --> 00:31:57.720
the deadline is going to be April 1st of 2025.

00:31:57.720 --> 00:31:59.119
And probably wondering why.

00:31:59.119 --> 00:32:01.279
Well, this is a new change.

00:32:01.279 --> 00:32:04.559
And we're trying to give our landlords some time

00:32:04.559 --> 00:32:07.480
to understand the change and to adapt to it.

00:32:07.480 --> 00:32:11.079
But starting in 2026, it's going to be January 31st

00:32:11.079 --> 00:32:14.789
from thereafter.

00:32:14.789 --> 00:32:18.069
So now moving on to the proposed ordinance,

00:32:18.069 --> 00:32:21.950
What is staff proposing for fines?

00:32:21.950 --> 00:32:24.029
So you're going to be required,

00:32:24.029 --> 00:32:25.509
we already talked about the deadlines.

00:32:25.509 --> 00:32:27.990
So if you're 30 days or less,

00:32:27.990 --> 00:32:31.210
if you register 30 days or less after our deadline,

00:32:31.210 --> 00:32:34.029
you're going to be charged $100 per unit,

00:32:34.029 --> 00:32:37.670
and there's gonna be a maximum charge of $1,500.

00:32:37.670 --> 00:32:39.849
So my memo didn't contemplate or state

00:32:39.849 --> 00:32:44.389
that there would be a maximum per property owner of $1,500.

00:32:44.389 --> 00:32:57.389
Now, if the application is filed 30 days, but less than 90, so 31 to 90, after the due date, you're now going to receive a $250 fine per unit.

00:32:57.389 --> 00:33:11.389
The maximum will be $3,000. If you're filed 90 days or more past the due date, you're going to have a $500 fine per unit with a maximum of $6,000.

00:33:11.389 --> 00:33:20.389
Now, this changes in the past because there was a fee of $100 per unit, and it didn't change with 30 to 90 days, etc.

00:33:20.389 --> 00:33:27.740
So this is what is being proposed was what I just spoke of with the days and associated increasing fines.

00:33:27.740 --> 00:33:31.740
And then it also states in here that fines which are not promptly paid,

00:33:31.740 --> 00:33:38.740
and they will have a chance through administrative review process, which is established in our Chapter 299 of our courtified ordinances,

00:33:38.740 --> 00:33:39.740
Settlers.

00:33:39.740 --> 00:33:41.539
This is essentially our administrative hearing process.

00:33:41.539 --> 00:33:45.700
For anybody who's not paying, they'll have a chance to challenge an administrative hearing

00:33:45.700 --> 00:33:48.019
process.

00:33:48.019 --> 00:33:51.779
And that being said, staff is recommending moving this forward.

00:33:51.779 --> 00:33:54.900
Is there a motion to move this ordinance forward?

00:33:54.900 --> 00:33:55.900
So move.

00:33:55.900 --> 00:33:56.900
Second.

00:33:56.900 --> 00:34:01.700
We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

00:34:01.700 --> 00:34:02.700
Discussion?

00:34:02.700 --> 00:34:07.940
Alderman Stacy.

00:34:07.940 --> 00:34:13.090
Yes.

00:34:13.090 --> 00:34:20.429
I would like to know how many of these landlords are aware of this and have gone year after

00:34:20.429 --> 00:34:26.789
year after year choosing not to register.

00:34:26.789 --> 00:34:30.470
My guess is this is through our analysis.

00:34:30.470 --> 00:34:36.349
So staff last year we retained the services of Ptolemae, which is a software that allows

00:34:36.349 --> 00:34:41.510
us to analyze properties and to determine what we suspect to be rental properties.

00:34:41.510 --> 00:34:46.489
So we've spent the past year looking into that exact question, and what we've determined

00:34:46.489 --> 00:34:55.369
is roughly 3,000 properties that we suspect are rentals, and of those 1,000 registered.

00:34:55.369 --> 00:34:59.489
So that's only one-third of what we suspect to be rentals registered.

00:34:59.489 --> 00:35:04.250
So looking at that data, working with, it's a poor performance.

00:35:04.250 --> 00:35:10.090
We'd like to see more people register, and one way to enhance registration is to increase

00:35:10.090 --> 00:35:11.090
the fines.

00:35:11.090 --> 00:35:22.090
and the answer to your question is two-thirds, 67% of what we suspect to be rentals do not register as of right now and that data goes back from 2020.

00:35:22.090 --> 00:35:26.090
Why are there no registration fees attached?

00:35:26.090 --> 00:35:35.090
Well, take this back. You certainly can propose a registration fee. That's something that can be contemplated tonight.

00:35:35.090 --> 00:35:41.849
What's been proposed before you, as stated, has been discussed with landlords' representation,

00:35:41.849 --> 00:35:45.889
has been talked with our city manager, staff has looked at it.

00:35:45.889 --> 00:35:50.210
We've not contemplated saying that there should be a registration fee, but it's open for discussion

00:35:50.210 --> 00:35:51.329
if it wants to be added.

00:35:51.329 --> 00:35:56.690
If you're saying you want to add $50 of property, certainly it could be discussed.

00:35:56.690 --> 00:35:58.570
Manager Boyer?

00:35:58.570 --> 00:36:03.730
I would like to point out that the fines have been increased to the point where we believe

00:36:03.730 --> 00:36:32.099
We've not issued any fines yet because it's literally taken up to this point for us to

00:36:32.099 --> 00:36:37.980
to get all the data correct, get the software implemented, and now what we're hoping to

00:36:37.980 --> 00:36:42.340
do or what we're planning to do is after this is passed is now saying, hey, you have this

00:36:42.340 --> 00:36:44.980
amount of time or you're going to be fined.

00:36:44.980 --> 00:36:51.139
It truly is challenging to identify, okay, these properties are identified as rentals,

00:36:51.139 --> 00:36:52.539
we're going to move forward with a fine.

00:36:52.539 --> 00:36:58.099
And part of the reason that staff brought forth the Ptolemae software is to say we know

00:36:58.099 --> 00:37:01.739
that people aren't registering, we know it's a problem, we want to do a better job

00:37:01.739 --> 00:37:10.739
We need to see if there's anybody else that wants to ask questions first, for the second time? No one for the first? All in favor, Shadle?

00:37:10.739 --> 00:37:17.739
I just want to comment that if we impose a fee to sign up for this,

00:37:17.739 --> 00:37:36.550
I just want to comment that if we impose a fee to sign up for this, at least without

00:37:36.550 --> 00:37:43.389
seeing if these fines are going to work first, we're giving the landlords a reason not to

00:37:43.389 --> 00:37:52.590
to sign up, and the objective of this is to know where the rental property is, and you

00:37:52.590 --> 00:38:01.809
do that by getting them to sign up. There's no fee attached, they have no reason not to.

00:38:01.809 --> 00:38:03.050
Anyone else for Alderman Parker?

00:38:03.050 --> 00:38:08.570
I'll go along with what Alderman Shadle said. You know, if there's no fee, if you add charge

00:38:08.570 --> 00:38:13.010
of fee, it gives the landlord a reason to add more money to the renter, and a lot of

00:38:13.010 --> 00:38:14.010
Settlers.

00:38:14.010 --> 00:38:28.570
I think if the landlords are in agreement with it and they're not opposing it and they've

00:38:28.570 --> 00:38:34.269
sat down and they've talked with and they've been a part of the agreement, I think it's,

00:38:34.269 --> 00:38:38.489
you know, we should at least give it a try and see how that works because they are in

00:38:38.489 --> 00:38:40.610
favor of it.

00:38:40.610 --> 00:38:42.489
Alderman Klemm?

00:38:42.489 --> 00:38:45.949
I think Alderman Sellers hit it right on the nose there.

00:38:45.949 --> 00:38:48.389
We've gone through this more than once in our history

00:38:48.389 --> 00:38:52.429
and if we're working with the Landlord Association,

00:38:52.429 --> 00:38:55.309
now we gotta remember that these guys are working

00:38:55.309 --> 00:38:58.029
with the bulk of the good landlords.

00:38:58.029 --> 00:39:00.789
It's basically a bunch of landlords out there

00:39:00.789 --> 00:39:05.630
that are in Chicago slash Arizona slash wherever

00:39:05.630 --> 00:39:08.309
that buys a property that they think's a real good deal

00:39:08.309 --> 00:39:10.470
and then lets it sit there and rot.

00:39:10.470 --> 00:39:13.610
those are the people that really are causing the problem.

00:39:13.610 --> 00:39:16.550
So I think if we can implement it

00:39:16.550 --> 00:39:19.849
and everybody can work together on it and agree to it,

00:39:19.849 --> 00:39:22.769
it would be a good situation at that point.

00:39:24.529 --> 00:39:25.730
Any other for first time?

00:39:26.929 --> 00:39:28.630
Alderman Sanders.

00:39:28.630 --> 00:39:32.829
Oh yeah, Alderman, Klemm, what would be,

00:39:32.829 --> 00:39:36.070
I didn't catch that last comment you made.

00:39:36.070 --> 00:39:37.289
What would it be?

00:39:37.289 --> 00:39:46.849
It would be a good thing to work together with the landlord association because they take

00:39:46.849 --> 00:39:52.409
and deal with all the good landlords or the people, a lot of the people that have access

00:39:52.409 --> 00:39:54.050
to numerous properties.

00:39:54.050 --> 00:40:05.980
Wuss, and the many others. There are a lot of people out there that own 10, 15, 20 properties.

00:40:05.980 --> 00:40:10.659
They are just out there, and they are really trying to take advantage of people and not

00:40:10.659 --> 00:40:16.980
signing up, not being a part of their association, to get what is going on. So I think the biggest

00:40:16.980 --> 00:40:17.980
Fowler.

00:40:17.980 --> 00:40:21.780
I'll give you an example.

00:40:21.780 --> 00:40:23.940
There was a $25 fee put on it.

00:40:23.940 --> 00:40:28.579
First thing that happened was certain landlords charged the people $50.

00:40:28.579 --> 00:40:34.159
That's why when it was brought up about the fee, it was not a matter of that it was not

00:40:34.159 --> 00:40:40.840
so fair to the landlords, it was not so fair in turn to the people because some of the

00:40:40.840 --> 00:40:43.019
landlords doubled that fee.

00:40:43.019 --> 00:40:48.619
So if we can work together, which there was a process before and it kind of went south,

00:40:48.619 --> 00:40:54.139
but if we can keep working together and try and move it forward, like one of the things

00:40:54.139 --> 00:41:00.659
we've got here that you really got to stop and think about is the number of rental properties

00:41:00.659 --> 00:41:06.699
and the percentage of rental properties, because all of us know the minute that we've got a

00:41:06.699 --> 00:41:12.019
neighborhood that everybody's lived in for 25 years and they're all happy and there's

00:41:12.019 --> 00:41:15.579
Three new houses, three houses bought up by somebody

00:41:15.579 --> 00:41:18.099
and we'll use the term, I'll just use the term

00:41:18.099 --> 00:41:21.860
of a bad landlord, you know, then you really got troubles.

00:41:21.860 --> 00:41:26.420
You know, if you go to the, on Wayne's other side

00:41:26.420 --> 00:41:30.179
that he deals with, if you go to the side

00:41:30.179 --> 00:41:31.940
where people that don't mow yards,

00:41:31.940 --> 00:41:33.539
people that don't clean up stuff,

00:41:33.539 --> 00:41:35.900
people that got stuff all over in their yards

00:41:35.900 --> 00:41:38.659
and that kind of stuff, there's the other asset

00:41:38.659 --> 00:41:41.260
that he has to deal with when you get bad landlords

00:41:41.260 --> 00:41:46.260
and others, and stuff. So, if we can all work together, it will just be helpful, I think.

00:41:46.260 --> 00:41:50.260
Alderman Simmons, is there something more you would like to add before I open it up for

00:41:50.260 --> 00:41:55.260
a second round? I think Alderman Stacy, you had your hand up.

00:41:55.260 --> 00:42:05.210
Yes. If it's a big word to be two letters long, we have dealt with this for how many

00:42:05.210 --> 00:42:07.210
and

00:42:09.230 --> 00:42:11.230
John.

00:42:13.269 --> 00:42:19.070
We have a registration fee for everything else, for your car,

00:42:19.070 --> 00:42:25.690
so we have to do something to let them know we mean what we

00:42:25.690 --> 00:42:30.989
say and we say what we mean. And even this little 100 and this

00:42:30.989 --> 00:42:37.269
little 250, for the ones that's been here who is aware of this

00:42:37.269 --> 00:43:17.030
and I want to say to all of you, if you are not aware of this and have continued to chosen to choose not to do it, I say forget the 100 and 250 and give them a flat 500. But you can't just do that for the old timers that continue to choose not to. You have to do the same across the board.

00:43:17.030 --> 00:43:19.280
McClendon.

00:43:19.280 --> 00:43:24.579
They've had how many years with no registration, and it has not made a difference.

00:43:24.579 --> 00:43:32.739
They've had how many years with the 100 and the 250, 500 and be done.

00:43:32.739 --> 00:43:37.159
Mr. McClendon.

00:43:37.159 --> 00:43:40.360
I understand what you're saying.

00:43:40.360 --> 00:43:47.880
I think what we might be talking about that we're missing a little here is the goal in

00:43:47.880 --> 00:43:54.440
is, is not to make the landlords, the good landlords that are participating in this and

00:43:54.440 --> 00:43:59.679
working with us to be the one that suffers in the deal. And some of those landlords own

00:43:59.679 --> 00:44:07.639
some, a fairly good number of properties. Also keep in mind in the last year, I'll say

00:44:07.639 --> 00:44:12.400
more than that because it's been the COVID thing, there's been a big turnaround in who

00:44:12.400 --> 00:44:16.679
bought a bunch of properties and who sold a bunch of properties. There were a lot of

00:44:16.679 --> 00:44:21.159
We had people that were getting up in years that said I'm selling my property and they

00:44:21.159 --> 00:44:27.519
turned around and sold them to a landlord that didn't go by any rules or anything else.

00:44:27.519 --> 00:44:32.199
So if we talk a big fee up front, we're talking about the punishing the people that we're

00:44:32.199 --> 00:44:37.840
dealing with and all the people that we don't know about, these little guys that got a couple

00:44:37.840 --> 00:44:42.400
properties here and there, those guys are still going to be on the outside.

00:44:42.400 --> 00:44:49.460
Those are the people you want to try and deal with to get registered and to get involved.

00:44:49.460 --> 00:44:51.460
But the good landlords are registered.

00:44:51.460 --> 00:44:53.460
They're not registered.

00:44:53.460 --> 00:44:57.460
You said regular print, the figure was what, 33%?

00:44:57.460 --> 00:44:58.460
Correct.

00:44:58.460 --> 00:45:01.659
I said, yeah, that's what we're, 33% of the people are registering.

00:45:01.659 --> 00:45:04.860
And of those, I would say there are good landlords on there.

00:45:04.860 --> 00:45:05.860
Yes.

00:45:05.860 --> 00:45:06.860
Yeah.

00:45:06.860 --> 00:45:12.039
But are you saying that there's also, in the two-thirds, that's not registered good

00:45:12.039 --> 00:45:15.039
But landlords mixed with bad landlords?

00:45:15.039 --> 00:45:23.360
What I will say is the people that are involved with City Manager Boyer, myself, and the association,

00:45:23.360 --> 00:45:27.039
they are proponents of a landlord registry.

00:45:27.039 --> 00:45:29.639
So they are registering.

00:45:29.639 --> 00:45:34.079
That's what I can say.

00:45:34.079 --> 00:45:36.360
Norman Sanders.

00:45:36.360 --> 00:45:42.619
Notifications went out to these landlords, whether they registered or not, to let them

00:45:42.619 --> 00:45:48.940
know what their responsibilities are and consequences of lack of their responsibility.

00:45:48.940 --> 00:45:54.860
Yes. And as I said, what's going to be better about the program now is with this software,

00:45:54.860 --> 00:46:02.699
we've done a better job of identifying who is a suspected, who's out there that should be

00:46:02.699 --> 00:46:08.220
registered and isn't. Who do we suspect is a rental property that currently isn't registered.

00:46:08.220 --> 00:46:38.220
so we have every year we send it out it would be so if it's June 31st it would be in May we would send a letter out however now with this new proposal we're going to be sending out the letters in December because we're proposing a different date right different deadline so to answer your question is yes people are notified staff has been working on making the process better identifying who these landlords are it's a complicated question to ask

00:46:38.220 --> 00:46:43.900
How do you know who is that? Is that a landlord? Is that not a landlord? Is it a rental property? Is it not?

00:46:43.900 --> 00:46:48.860
You know, and so we've worked diligently and we've gone out and hired a

00:46:50.139 --> 00:46:56.139
organization to help us resolve that question through data analysis. So the answer to your

00:46:56.139 --> 00:47:00.139
question is we've done it in the past. We think we're going to do a better job moving forward.

00:47:00.139 --> 00:47:02.139
Thank you.

00:47:02.139 --> 00:47:04.139
Olin Simmons?

00:47:04.139 --> 00:47:29.139
So if I'm hearing this correctly, all the person, um, sorry, Stacy, you think that the people who are avoiding signing up for this list and have gotten notices and reminders rather than, and will be still given until April, April 21st to register, should get a $500 fine versus a $150 fine.

00:47:29.139 --> 00:47:34.420
is a $150 fine because they haven't done it and they've had the opportunity to do it.

00:47:34.420 --> 00:47:35.420
I agree with that.

00:47:35.420 --> 00:47:41.880
Would you like to make that a motion or how would we do that?

00:47:41.880 --> 00:47:46.279
So there was a motion and a second just to move this forward to second reading.

00:47:46.279 --> 00:47:51.579
So if you want to make a motion to make an amendment to the draft motion with what your

00:47:51.579 --> 00:47:57.340
proposed amendment is second on the proposed amendment and then a vote by the council whether

00:47:57.340 --> 00:48:01.940
or not to make that change in the language, which would then if it passes, then we'll

00:48:01.940 --> 00:48:02.940
Huffines.

00:48:02.940 --> 00:48:03.940
We'll make it for the second reading.

00:48:03.940 --> 00:48:04.940
Okay.

00:48:04.940 --> 00:48:05.940
Okay.

00:48:05.940 --> 00:48:10.699
But I'm a little confused because according to what Director Duckman said, it was $100

00:48:10.699 --> 00:48:16.739
per unit with a max of $1,500 and then after another time frame, it's $250 per unit with

00:48:16.739 --> 00:48:22.619
a max of $3,000 and then $500 per unit with a max of $6,000.

00:48:22.619 --> 00:48:25.980
You're just talking about one little piece of six things there.

00:48:25.980 --> 00:48:28.820
No, I'm saying the initial.

00:48:28.820 --> 00:48:33.739
My motion will be for the initial fine to be for 500 and we move up from there.

00:48:33.739 --> 00:48:36.900
They've had plenty of opportunities to register and have chosen not to.

00:48:36.900 --> 00:48:40.539
Yeah, how do you move up from there if your next one is lower?

00:48:40.539 --> 00:48:46.500
It would be changed to progress and move up versus staying what it is.

00:48:46.500 --> 00:48:50.739
We would start with the first fine being 500 and move up from there.

00:48:50.739 --> 00:48:58.300
Okay, so right now it says if they're 30 days or less after the due date, right?

00:48:58.300 --> 00:49:03.079
you're late 30 days right now it says it's $100 per unit fine you're saying

00:49:03.079 --> 00:49:10.239
change that to $500 per unit fine okay so the next period of time then is from day

00:49:10.239 --> 00:49:19.739
31 to day 90 there what would you and that's currently at $250 per unit

00:49:19.739 --> 00:49:26.380
per 30 days just as it moves up and progresses as it is written it should

00:49:26.380 --> 00:49:30.900
move up those same amounts, but starting at $500.

00:49:30.900 --> 00:49:33.380
So from $100, it went up to $250.

00:49:33.380 --> 00:49:36.099
So it went up $150.

00:49:36.099 --> 00:49:39.059
So you're saying from $500, it should go up to $650.

00:49:39.059 --> 00:49:44.980
Then the next increment, where it starts at $300,

00:49:44.980 --> 00:49:49.739
it should go up to, what was that, a difference of $250 and $3.

00:49:49.739 --> 00:49:51.159
Sorry, I don't have my glasses on.

00:49:51.159 --> 00:49:51.659
$800.

00:49:51.659 --> 00:50:02.000
Sorry, I don't have my glasses on. 800? So 800 then per unit. There. So keep the incremental increase the same. Just start it at 500 and bump it up. The same increment. I gotcha. Okay, so that's true.

00:50:02.000 --> 00:50:18.380
With a max or no? Yeah. Okay, but the original max was 1500. What would you, what are you proposing for a max? We would increase the max the same. And starting at what?

00:50:18.380 --> 00:50:30.380
We went from 150 to 500, so you were just about three times the 1,500, because we're slapping these landlords on the wrist and barely doing that, and they're not registering because they're not taking care of their properties.

00:50:30.380 --> 00:50:39.380
Why would you not register if you are? We're not being firm with landlords that are in our city and not following our rules.

00:50:39.380 --> 00:50:46.380
Okay, so my question is, it's 15 times the amount as a max.

00:50:46.380 --> 00:51:19.030
Do you want 15 times the amount of a max? Is that what you're asking? So 15 as it is whatever the right to what as it's written with the same increases I think I understand what she's saying here because right now it's $100 first step is $100 per unit find 1500 max you're proposing to bump that up to a $500 per unit fine which we increase by $400 right there so

00:51:19.030 --> 00:51:31.989
and so that was a $1,500 right there. So the top one was 12 times so I don't

00:51:31.989 --> 00:51:36.030
understand how but proportionally it would go up the same amount as what she's

00:51:36.030 --> 00:51:42.909
saying. So it's 15 at the first level it should be 15 across the board if

00:51:42.909 --> 00:51:48.469
you want to make it. If you register this is no concern to you because you've

00:51:48.469 --> 00:51:49.309
and

00:51:49.309 --> 00:51:50.150
I'm a registered.

00:51:50.150 --> 00:51:50.969
Mm-hmm.

00:51:52.590 --> 00:51:56.889
Clerk, do you understand what you have for notes on that?

00:51:56.889 --> 00:52:00.510
I believe I'm following, but as I read the ordinance

00:52:00.510 --> 00:52:04.909
currently, it's 100 with a 1500 max.

00:52:04.909 --> 00:52:08.909
So if you had a 20 unit apartment building,

00:52:09.949 --> 00:52:11.869
it would stop at 1500.

00:52:11.869 --> 00:52:14.710
So there is a logical stopping point

00:52:14.710 --> 00:52:17.590
because you could have 15 units.

00:52:17.590 --> 00:52:19.610
You would stop at 15 units.

00:52:19.610 --> 00:52:22.369
Director Duckman, I'm not saying that very well.

00:52:22.369 --> 00:52:27.530
The max, that is per unit so that the larger units don't

00:52:27.530 --> 00:52:34.210
get like a $10,000 on the first slap, we'll call it.

00:52:34.210 --> 00:52:36.610
Well, let me see if I can read through this here.

00:52:36.610 --> 00:52:39.329
I think the idea here is that they just

00:52:39.329 --> 00:52:42.210
didn't want it to be, if a large landlord,

00:52:42.210 --> 00:52:45.570
they didn't want to hit somebody with an unlimited $100

00:52:45.570 --> 00:52:47.010
per unit fines.

00:52:47.010 --> 00:52:49.050
Because if they were notified for the first time

00:52:49.050 --> 00:52:54.170
or Cain, they didn't know, et cetera, they wanted to cap it at a certain point if somebody

00:52:54.170 --> 00:52:58.130
may be out of town, bought a large number of properties, et cetera, for whatever reason

00:52:58.130 --> 00:53:00.409
they wanted to cap it.

00:53:00.409 --> 00:53:08.690
From my understanding of what's going on here is they want to start under sub 876, 08, section

00:53:08.690 --> 00:53:16.409
A, subsection 1, they want it to be 30 days or later, or 30 days or less after due date

00:53:16.409 --> 00:53:20.329
of what's being proposed is $500 per unit with a $6,000

00:53:20.329 --> 00:53:21.489
property max.

00:53:21.489 --> 00:53:26.530
And then they want to go up from there to $650 per unit.

00:53:26.530 --> 00:53:30.210
And then the max would be, it looks like, maybe $12,000.

00:53:30.210 --> 00:53:35.130
And then it would be $650 plus.

00:53:35.130 --> 00:53:37.369
I mean, there's a mathematical equation.

00:53:37.369 --> 00:53:38.369
They want to go up.

00:53:38.369 --> 00:53:41.250
But they want to use the same increments from,

00:53:41.250 --> 00:53:44.610
but starting at $500.

00:53:44.610 --> 00:53:45.690
Does that make sense?

00:53:45.690 --> 00:53:46.730
That's what I believe is being proposed.

00:53:46.730 --> 00:53:50.969
So the top one would be 800 with a max of times 30,

00:53:50.969 --> 00:53:54.090
which is the difference on three.

00:53:54.090 --> 00:53:57.210
900, it would be 900, because it goes up 400

00:53:57.210 --> 00:53:58.530
from the first one.

00:53:58.530 --> 00:53:59.769
So sorry about that.

00:53:59.769 --> 00:54:02.369
It would be 500, 650, and 900.

00:54:02.369 --> 00:54:03.530
900.

00:54:03.530 --> 00:54:04.409
My math was wrong.

00:54:04.409 --> 00:54:05.010
I'm sorry.

00:54:05.010 --> 00:54:07.210
Attorney Zito, did I talk you into that?

00:54:07.210 --> 00:54:10.529
So then it's 900 times 30.

00:54:10.529 --> 00:54:11.489
No.

00:54:11.489 --> 00:54:13.250
It's 12 times.

00:54:13.250 --> 00:54:14.090
12.

00:54:14.090 --> 00:54:14.849
Times 12.

00:54:14.849 --> 00:54:15.570
OK.

00:54:15.570 --> 00:54:18.750
So that's $72,000. I'm terrible at math in my head.

00:54:18.750 --> 00:54:25.750
Is that $10,800? Sorry, I got a couple of zeros there.

00:54:25.750 --> 00:54:27.329
Yeah, somebody with a calculator.

00:54:27.329 --> 00:54:31.949
Right here.

00:54:31.949 --> 00:54:35.529
It's $10,800.

00:54:35.529 --> 00:54:40.239
$10,800? Man, that was good math.

00:54:40.239 --> 00:54:41.440
Since you're using your calculator,

00:54:41.440 --> 00:54:42.840
you don't know what each number is.

00:54:42.840 --> 00:54:45.900
Yeah, so what were the numbers again?

00:54:45.900 --> 00:54:49.440
So the first tier would be $500 with a cap of $6,000,

00:54:49.440 --> 00:54:55.320
31 to 90 days, 650 with a max of 12,000 over 90 days, 900

00:54:55.320 --> 00:54:58.800
with a max of 10,800.

00:54:58.800 --> 00:55:01.039
That can't be right, because it's not going up.

00:55:01.039 --> 00:55:02.360
It's going up.

00:55:02.360 --> 00:55:06.360
The middle one needs to go up from 500 to 600.

00:55:06.360 --> 00:55:09.519
Because you went from, I think she's using the 100.

00:55:09.519 --> 00:55:13.400
So what I think is being proposed is they're going up.

00:55:13.400 --> 00:55:16.440
They went from 100 to 250.

00:55:16.440 --> 00:55:19.559
So that's adding 150.

00:55:19.559 --> 00:55:22.639
So if you go for the second one, you would go from 500.

00:55:22.639 --> 00:55:27.679
If you add 150, that would be 650 per unit.

00:55:27.679 --> 00:55:28.599
Right, I mean.

00:55:28.599 --> 00:55:29.199
Yeah.

00:55:29.199 --> 00:55:30.159
Yes.

00:55:30.159 --> 00:55:32.360
And before, it was 250 and 3,000.

00:55:32.360 --> 00:55:37.239
So that's 12 times 650.

00:55:37.239 --> 00:55:40.320
Yep, 12 times 650, 7,800.

00:55:40.320 --> 00:55:44.920
So it'd be 6,000, 7,800, 10,800.

00:55:44.920 --> 00:55:46.639
Would you like me to reread that all in one?

00:55:46.639 --> 00:55:47.720
Yes.

00:55:47.720 --> 00:55:54.639
First tier, 500 per unit with a max of 6,031 to 90 days.

00:55:54.639 --> 00:55:58.720
650 per unit with a max of 7,800.

00:55:58.720 --> 00:56:06.900
Over 90 days, 900 per unit with a max of 10,800.

00:56:06.900 --> 00:56:11.500
OK, so that's a motion made by Alderman Simmons.

00:56:11.500 --> 00:56:14.260
Or I've forgotten what the order was.

00:56:14.260 --> 00:56:19.460
With all, Madam Mayor, with all the commotion

00:56:19.460 --> 00:56:23.500
and people about to stand up in their chairs,

00:56:23.500 --> 00:56:29.099
can we, I make a motion, remove this to December cow

00:56:29.099 --> 00:56:34.300
so that we can get an understanding on this?

00:56:34.300 --> 00:56:36.699
OK, well, we have a motion on the floor for an amendment,

00:56:36.699 --> 00:56:38.940
so we need to deal with that first.

00:56:38.940 --> 00:56:40.699
But I can't remember who made the motion

00:56:40.699 --> 00:56:41.619
and who made the second.

00:56:41.619 --> 00:56:45.760
Simmons made the motion.

00:56:45.760 --> 00:57:14.400
I just like to ask the question, understand where you're coming from here, but I think

00:57:14.400 --> 00:57:19.119
The main goal of this particular ordinance here

00:57:19.119 --> 00:57:24.119
is to register tenant houses, okay?

00:57:25.279 --> 00:57:29.119
The goal is not to find everybody to the hilt

00:57:29.119 --> 00:57:32.079
like every mom and pop that owns one or two houses

00:57:32.079 --> 00:57:33.599
that don't have a clue about this,

00:57:33.599 --> 00:57:35.720
that they're all gonna, it's gonna come up

00:57:35.720 --> 00:57:40.519
and you're gonna find them $1,000 or $2,000.

00:57:40.519 --> 00:57:43.400
I mean, I think the main goal is to take

00:57:43.400 --> 00:57:47.360
and get as many people as they can registered first.

00:57:47.360 --> 00:57:51.039
You can then take and work with fines or work with costs

00:57:51.039 --> 00:57:52.800
wherever you wanna do it.

00:57:52.800 --> 00:57:55.139
But meanwhile, these people here

00:57:55.139 --> 00:57:56.699
with two people working for them

00:57:56.699 --> 00:57:59.639
are gonna try and figure out, go around and guess

00:57:59.639 --> 00:58:02.779
how many rental properties you've got in the city of Freeport

00:58:02.779 --> 00:58:05.940
and they've got software that determines it.

00:58:05.940 --> 00:58:08.760
You can look at me like that, that's fine, I don't care.

00:58:08.760 --> 00:58:10.559
But I'm gonna tell you something,

00:58:10.559 --> 00:58:14.440
think about what your goal is and where you're going here.

00:58:14.440 --> 00:58:18.920
So if you can register 10,000 properties

00:58:18.920 --> 00:58:22.960
right off the bat with cooperation from an organization

00:58:22.960 --> 00:58:25.019
and then work on getting more,

00:58:25.019 --> 00:58:26.599
are you farther ahead doing that

00:58:26.599 --> 00:58:28.720
and getting everybody on the same page

00:58:28.720 --> 00:58:31.000
rather than finding a whole bunch of people

00:58:31.000 --> 00:58:34.159
and have the guy sitting over here that owns 400 properties

00:58:34.159 --> 00:58:35.840
say, there's no way in hell

00:58:35.840 --> 00:58:37.639
I'm gonna pay that amount of money,

00:58:37.639 --> 00:58:39.039
we're gonna go to court.

00:58:39.039 --> 00:58:41.880
because that's what's going to happen.

00:58:41.880 --> 00:58:43.519
We've been through this once.

00:58:43.519 --> 00:58:45.400
Alderman Klemm.

00:58:45.400 --> 00:58:46.320
Alderman Monroe.

00:58:46.320 --> 00:58:48.039
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:58:48.039 --> 00:58:51.519
I do think that's a bit on the stiff side,

00:58:51.519 --> 00:58:55.019
but I will remind the alderman that he voted

00:58:55.019 --> 00:58:59.519
to essentially fine people six, seven, $800

00:58:59.519 --> 00:59:03.320
and tow their vehicle for playing the radio too loud.

00:59:03.320 --> 00:59:06.760
So it's got everything to do with this

00:59:06.760 --> 00:59:10.000
because essentially what you're saying is

00:59:10.000 --> 00:59:13.159
we're going to take somebody

00:59:13.159 --> 00:59:15.539
who's got multiple properties in town

00:59:15.539 --> 00:59:17.960
that we want to register their properties

00:59:19.039 --> 00:59:21.119
and hold them accountable.

00:59:21.119 --> 00:59:24.320
And most of those properties are assessed

00:59:24.320 --> 00:59:28.519
under fair market value in this city right now.

00:59:28.519 --> 00:59:31.320
Greatly under assessed.

00:59:31.320 --> 00:59:34.739
They're getting $1,000 to $1,500 a month for rent

00:59:34.739 --> 00:59:38.380
and homes that are worth 20, 25, $30,000.

00:59:38.380 --> 00:59:42.179
And they've put in upgrades and things like that.

00:59:42.179 --> 00:59:47.500
So I'm not sure these numbers are too big.

00:59:47.500 --> 00:59:48.779
I would agree.

00:59:48.779 --> 00:59:50.019
but we have

00:59:50.019 --> 00:59:55.679
We have to start holding landlords accountable and accountability is something that's been

00:59:55.679 --> 01:00:00.980
missing for a very long time in this and the east side of town for the most part and now

01:00:00.980 --> 01:00:08.000
the west side of town is going through the same issues together and I think it's a responsibility

01:00:08.000 --> 01:00:11.239
of us to hold those people accountable.

01:00:11.239 --> 01:00:14.599
I don't care if they live in Arizona, I don't care if they live in California, I don't care

01:00:14.599 --> 01:00:16.019
where they live.

01:00:16.019 --> 01:00:21.199
At the end of the day, we want to maintain our city, we want to maintain safe neighborhoods,

01:00:21.199 --> 01:00:30.099
and we go back to our strategic vision for the city, and we've put money toward this

01:00:30.099 --> 01:00:37.619
to get this done. Still not done. I have questions if we will do it. I'm starting to wonder if

01:00:37.619 --> 01:00:44.699
staff is capable of doing what we're giving the money to do. It's a challenge. I get it.

01:00:44.699 --> 01:00:49.539
but these properties are sold and bought every day, they're registered at the county clerk's

01:00:49.539 --> 01:00:56.579
office, they're registered in the city, we've got the databases to figure this out and it's

01:00:56.579 --> 01:01:02.780
a responsibility of us to make sure that this happens so that we can then provide the police

01:01:02.780 --> 01:01:08.320
department or the fire department or whomever with the information that they need and we

01:01:08.320 --> 01:01:14.139
are able to then start getting people held accountable from the standpoint of maintaining

01:01:14.139 --> 01:01:15.139
Huffines.

01:01:15.139 --> 01:01:35.179
So, you know, I think that's the conversation, but at the end of the day, there's got to

01:01:35.179 --> 01:01:39.780
be some teeth to this because if there's not, what do they care?

01:01:39.780 --> 01:01:40.780
Huffines.

01:01:40.780 --> 01:01:43.699
That's $1,500 is somebody that owns 20 properties.

01:01:43.699 --> 01:01:45.699
That's nothing.

01:01:45.699 --> 01:01:47.940
At the end of the day, that's 100 bucks a property.

01:01:47.940 --> 01:01:50.420
So they'll collect that in a month.

01:01:50.420 --> 01:01:51.940
So I don't know.

01:01:51.940 --> 01:01:53.019
It's just my thoughts.

01:01:53.019 --> 01:02:01.699
I would probably say, you know, 250, 500, 750 makes a lot more sense to me, but that's

01:02:01.699 --> 01:02:06.780
just numbers that I kind of came up with here and we just keep it straight 12 times.

01:02:06.780 --> 01:02:12.780
So we don't have 15, 12, and 10, whatever, but that's my thought.

01:02:12.780 --> 01:02:13.780
Alderman Parker?

01:02:13.780 --> 01:02:18.420
Just to clarify, we're still talking no registration fee.

01:02:18.420 --> 01:02:21.179
All these numbers are the penalties if they don't register, right?

01:02:21.179 --> 01:02:22.179
Correct.

01:02:22.179 --> 01:02:23.179
Okay.

01:02:23.179 --> 01:02:24.780
And I have an agree with Alderman Monroe on the cost.

01:02:24.780 --> 01:02:28.380
We need to reduce it so some of these people can afford it.

01:02:28.380 --> 01:02:29.380
Thank you.

01:02:29.380 --> 01:02:31.780
Alderman Sanders, I believe you had your hand up next.

01:02:31.780 --> 01:02:49.320
Yeah, I'm in alignment on the part where it is requested certain assessment on this ordinance

01:02:49.320 --> 01:02:57.519
and the fact that we should be able to submit amendments to these ordinances where we can

01:02:57.519 --> 01:03:01.559
and actually come to agreement wholeheartedly

01:03:01.559 --> 01:03:06.559
instead of sitting in council trying to devise a plan

01:03:06.860 --> 01:03:11.860
when we should be already informed on our progress.

01:03:12.039 --> 01:03:16.760
So each time we decide what we should be doing,

01:03:16.760 --> 01:03:20.800
we should be drafting to ourself

01:03:20.800 --> 01:03:25.800
or having conversation with each other on the council

01:03:25.800 --> 01:03:30.800
on the council to come up with these kinds of determinations

01:03:32.400 --> 01:03:37.400
amongst councilmen, we should have a legitimate conversation

01:03:40.119 --> 01:03:44.559
with councilmen so everyone can hear their perspective

01:03:44.559 --> 01:03:47.199
and their viewpoints and things of this nature.

01:03:47.199 --> 01:03:50.400
I agree with what I'm hearing so far.

01:03:50.400 --> 01:03:54.880
I hear different expressions from various people.

01:03:55.800 --> 01:04:04.599
but there's no clarity once we walk out of here there's no initiation or initiative to go follow

01:04:04.599 --> 01:04:12.840
through with anything that we're talking about and if we don't do something we're just talking and

01:04:12.840 --> 01:04:23.480
it just fans out into the air with no with no substance to it without coming to a conclusion

01:04:23.480 --> 01:04:24.480
and John.

01:04:24.480 --> 01:04:26.500
Then we're just wasting time.

01:04:26.500 --> 01:04:34.639
We have just wasted our time at council if we don't come up to talk together about the

01:04:34.639 --> 01:04:37.079
subjects that is before us.

01:04:37.079 --> 01:04:43.159
So I think we're doing our self a disservice if we can't talk to one another, to come up

01:04:43.159 --> 01:04:50.539
with a resolution and to be able to move forward because I don't like the fact that we might

01:04:50.539 --> 01:04:51.539
Boyer.

01:04:51.539 --> 01:04:56.380
I don't want to be doing injustice to tenants or landlords, but what I do want to be able

01:04:56.380 --> 01:05:04.940
to agree with, with the majority that is giving the best solutions, that's my take.

01:05:04.940 --> 01:05:05.940
Manager Boyer.

01:05:05.940 --> 01:05:07.860
Thank you, your honor.

01:05:07.860 --> 01:05:11.900
Just let me remind council where we've been, and I think it was already stated that we

01:05:11.900 --> 01:05:14.820
were in a place where we had really no accountability.

01:05:14.820 --> 01:05:17.380
We had some semblance of a registry.

01:05:17.380 --> 01:05:25.340
however it wasn't complete. Staff was tasked to remedy the situation. We went out, we found

01:05:25.340 --> 01:05:31.059
a software package that suits our needs, that online, that doesn't burden our staff with

01:05:31.059 --> 01:05:38.579
the various day-to-day information entering needs. Basically, individuals can fill it

01:05:38.579 --> 01:05:43.900
out themselves. So we got that done. It's being populated with data. And what we're

01:05:43.900 --> 01:05:48.500
for here is a step in the right direction, but let's take it a step at a

01:05:48.500 --> 01:05:53.860
time. I don't want to trip and fall on the way to the finish line here. We've worked

01:05:53.860 --> 01:06:02.260
together with the Realtors Association to work to a common consensus here. They

01:06:02.260 --> 01:06:09.179
represent the landlords in this town that care and that are the good

01:06:09.179 --> 01:06:15.679
Landlords, and I would like an opportunity for us to go ahead and enact what it is here

01:06:15.679 --> 01:06:20.199
we've put down because this wasn't just come out of thin blue air, this came out of back

01:06:20.199 --> 01:06:23.440
and forth with some of our most important property owners.

01:06:23.440 --> 01:06:28.239
Okay, I get it, we want to fix it all, we want it all fixed today.

01:06:28.239 --> 01:06:33.340
But we all know that that doesn't happen with the roads, it doesn't happen with the water,

01:06:33.340 --> 01:06:38.279
that doesn't happen with various structures in town, it's a process.

01:06:38.279 --> 01:06:43.679
So I would just encourage council, let's work on the process. Let's take it a step at a

01:06:43.679 --> 01:06:48.519
time. Let's move forward with what we have here. And if it's not working, let's revisit

01:06:48.519 --> 01:06:52.559
that and fix it. But folks, I don't want to trip at the front of the finish line here

01:06:52.559 --> 01:06:56.360
is getting this done. There's a lot of staff hours involved in this. There was a lot of

01:06:56.360 --> 01:07:01.079
consultation with folks in the community. We will get it done, but we got to take it

01:07:01.079 --> 01:07:04.039
a step at a time. So that's all I have to say.

01:07:04.039 --> 01:07:12.980
I just want to say that I truly appreciate the efforts that staff has put

01:07:12.980 --> 01:07:19.840
forward on this. I do not agree at all with comments made that you're not

01:07:19.840 --> 01:07:27.099
capable of dealing with this. I can see obviously you are. It's very well put

01:07:27.099 --> 01:07:33.980
together. It may not be perfect, but I think if you get too quick with too much

01:07:33.980 --> 01:07:34.980
Huffines.

01:07:34.980 --> 01:07:41.300
You're going to get a counterproductive measure.

01:07:41.300 --> 01:07:48.550
The object of this is to get people registered.

01:07:48.550 --> 01:07:55.239
If you get the fine too much, they're going to walk away from properties and now we're

01:07:55.239 --> 01:08:01.099
going to be stuck with a $20,000 bill tearing a building down.

01:08:01.099 --> 01:08:04.809
We need to get them registered.

01:08:04.809 --> 01:08:12.659
If it turns out a year from now that there's too many people running too late, that the

01:08:12.659 --> 01:08:15.579
fines aren't enough, let's deal with it then.

01:08:15.579 --> 01:08:21.119
Let's get a little data, let's analyze it, we'll take care of it then.

01:08:21.119 --> 01:08:26.100
Right now, we need to get them registered, and the best way to do that is with what's

01:08:26.100 --> 01:08:28.100
been brought forward.

01:08:28.100 --> 01:08:30.300
Manager Boyer, did you want to add to that?

01:08:30.300 --> 01:08:35.899
I also wanted to make a comment that ideally, you know, it takes about 30 days for an ordinance

01:08:35.899 --> 01:08:36.899
Settlers.

01:08:36.899 --> 01:09:02.500
I think we should at least give this a chance and see how it is because a lot of times these

01:09:02.500 --> 01:09:05.659
these landlords are putting some of these fines

01:09:05.659 --> 01:09:10.020
and raising the rents on their tenants.

01:09:10.020 --> 01:09:12.020
And that's what I don't wanna see happen.

01:09:12.020 --> 01:09:14.699
I just had a call from a friend who said

01:09:14.699 --> 01:09:17.260
her landlord just went up on her daughter's rent.

01:09:17.260 --> 01:09:19.699
So I don't want that to happen.

01:09:19.699 --> 01:09:23.100
And then you have these people staying in these apartments

01:09:23.100 --> 01:09:28.100
that they can't afford already they're paying $1,200

01:09:29.100 --> 01:09:30.659
for some of these rental properties.

01:09:30.659 --> 01:09:33.579
so I think we should at least give them a chance,

01:09:33.579 --> 01:09:37.899
see how it works, see what we're going up against

01:09:37.899 --> 01:09:40.319
and then we come back in and reevaluate.

01:09:41.260 --> 01:09:42.100
Alderman Stacey.

01:09:43.340 --> 01:09:47.460
Director Duckman, did you say that in December,

01:09:47.460 --> 01:09:48.300
letters

01:09:48.300 --> 01:10:18.270
in December. Letters would be going out. Yes, and a typical year the goal would be to send it out in December. I'm obviously this year, there's discussion about the proposal, how it's going to work. For this particular year, when it's agreed upon for the rates, I will be working immediately thereafter to submit a letter saying the deadline if they go with the proposal here would be April 1 of 2025. So for this year, obviously, I'm not going to

01:10:18.270 --> 01:10:48.270
it doesn't sound like I'm gonna get a letter out in some point in December because it's going to be approved probably hopefully in December but typically in a year I would be giving out a letter so in 2026 I'd be sending out a letter one month prior which would be December saying please register your property or you are subject to a fine as of February 1st okay and so then no one would have the excuse of saying I didn't know

01:10:48.270 --> 01:11:05.270
Correct. Yes, they're going to be, they are going to be notified via mail. Your property is suspected as a rental. You have to register your property by this date, which is to be decided upon. And if you do not register upon this date, here is your fine schedule, your fee schedule.

01:11:05.270 --> 01:11:08.270
And have these letters gone out before?

01:11:08.270 --> 01:11:12.770
The letters have gone out before stating you need to register your property or be subject

01:11:12.770 --> 01:11:19.989
to a fine. What I have said several times is that staff has a better ability now to

01:11:19.989 --> 01:11:26.350
identify who should be registering, who has not. That ability was more difficult in the

01:11:26.350 --> 01:11:33.630
past because we're trying to identify in our database of properties which over 10,000 parcels

01:11:33.630 --> 01:11:37.470
of land we're trying to determine is that a landlord, is that not a landlord, has this

01:11:37.470 --> 01:11:41.470
has been sold in the last month to somebody who lived there for 30 years and now is going

01:11:41.470 --> 01:11:49.109
to be a landlord. That's a difficult process to do when you're using rudimentary databases

01:11:49.109 --> 01:11:52.949
and you're using multiple databases and trying to figure out, okay, how do we determine if

01:11:52.949 --> 01:11:58.109
this person is actually a landlord or not? The software and platform that we're using

01:11:58.109 --> 01:12:04.170
now has the ability to do a better job of identifying who should be registering as a

01:12:04.170 --> 01:12:05.170
landlord.

01:12:05.170 --> 01:12:13.039
Okay so we're still on the topic of that amendment to Alderman Simmons would you

01:12:13.039 --> 01:12:17.880
like to add something okay I'll try to make this super quick you all agree with

01:12:17.880 --> 01:12:20.880
me that we need to get these landlords registered but you don't want to do

01:12:20.880 --> 01:12:25.399
anything to them for not registering this is for landlords who do not register

01:12:25.399 --> 01:12:31.560
have gotten notices after notice and still choose not to register it sounds

01:12:31.560 --> 01:12:36.640
as though those in council that do agree with me think that maybe this might be

01:12:36.640 --> 01:12:37.439
and

01:12:37.439 --> 01:12:38.039
Senator.

01:12:38.039 --> 01:12:42.159
I would compromise and I would draw my motion.

01:12:42.159 --> 01:12:45.840
If you want to remove your motion, then I need to have the second which is Sanders.

01:12:45.840 --> 01:12:46.840
Concur.

01:12:46.840 --> 01:12:47.840
Okay.

01:12:47.840 --> 01:12:50.960
So now we're back to the original of-

01:12:50.960 --> 01:12:51.960
Mayor.

01:12:51.960 --> 01:12:52.960
Yeah.

01:12:52.960 --> 01:12:56.760
I don't know if I've heard it exactly.

01:12:56.760 --> 01:13:01.880
Would it be fair, Director Duckman, to say the 67% who are not registered, there's a

01:13:01.880 --> 01:13:05.479
and a very good chance that they have never received a letter.

01:13:05.479 --> 01:13:07.279
And it's possible that they don't even

01:13:07.279 --> 01:13:09.359
know this ordinance is on the books.

01:13:09.359 --> 01:13:11.760
Well, it wasn't on the letter.

01:13:11.760 --> 01:13:14.560
That certainly is possible.

01:13:14.560 --> 01:13:16.439
That certainly is possible.

01:13:16.439 --> 01:13:21.239
We're talking about staff was tasked with the ability

01:13:21.239 --> 01:13:24.880
to say, we want a better rental registry.

01:13:24.880 --> 01:13:28.199
That's what the staff was tasked with.

01:13:28.199 --> 01:13:30.239
And so I went into a process and looked at it.

01:13:30.239 --> 01:13:33.260
and what was currently being done was letters were sent out

01:13:33.260 --> 01:13:35.380
to people that were previously in the database

01:13:35.380 --> 01:13:38.100
or who had been registered in the past.

01:13:38.100 --> 01:13:40.180
That's what we were going on.

01:13:40.180 --> 01:13:42.819
And when somebody comes to staff and says,

01:13:42.819 --> 01:13:45.699
I know there's more landlords, that person's a landlord,

01:13:45.699 --> 01:13:47.140
that person's a landlord.

01:13:47.140 --> 01:13:49.539
And I said, well, I see that as an issue.

01:13:49.539 --> 01:13:50.619
How do I fix it?

01:13:50.619 --> 01:13:53.140
How do I go about fixing this issue?

01:13:53.140 --> 01:13:56.140
How do I go about doing it efficiently, effectively?

01:13:56.140 --> 01:13:58.899
And so I started looking for softwares that could do this

01:13:58.899 --> 01:13:59.899
Dukman.

01:13:59.899 --> 01:14:02.819
I'm going to go ahead and analyze all of our properties and look at it fairly, have logarithms

01:14:02.819 --> 01:14:08.779
to say what data suspects, says that you actually are a landlord, you don't live there.

01:14:08.779 --> 01:14:10.340
Because landlords are smart.

01:14:10.340 --> 01:14:14.939
Many of these, and one of the things this software does is it says here's the 10 different

01:14:14.939 --> 01:14:16.739
LLCs that this person is.

01:14:16.739 --> 01:14:21.579
So yes, it's Wayne Dukman, but here's the 10 LLCs and here's the other 20 properties

01:14:21.579 --> 01:14:23.100
that he owns.

01:14:23.100 --> 01:14:27.039
Tracking that down for one person is going to take me hours to do that.

01:14:27.039 --> 01:14:33.739
So point that I'm getting at here is, you are correct Dovie, Ms. Anderson, pardon me,

01:14:33.739 --> 01:14:36.500
that I'm used to calling you that all the time.

01:14:36.500 --> 01:14:41.300
But anyways, the point I will say here is, I was tasked with making the process better

01:14:41.300 --> 01:14:47.060
and I can tell you that the software I'm using is making the data analysis better and is

01:14:47.060 --> 01:14:51.619
going to improve who we notify should be registering as a rental.

01:14:51.619 --> 01:14:54.340
So I will say that, but you are correct.

01:14:54.340 --> 01:14:55.340
Settler.

01:14:55.340 --> 01:14:58.060
So you're really saying give it a chance for the software to work?

01:14:58.060 --> 01:14:59.060
Sure.

01:14:59.060 --> 01:15:00.060
Yeah.

01:15:00.060 --> 01:15:01.060
Thanks.

01:15:01.060 --> 01:15:02.060
Yes.

01:15:02.060 --> 01:15:03.060
Okay.

01:15:03.060 --> 01:15:04.060
But are you also saying...

01:15:04.060 --> 01:15:06.060
I think we have to make sure everybody's had a chance to talk.

01:15:06.060 --> 01:15:12.119
I know you had several in there.

01:15:12.119 --> 01:15:13.119
Okay.

01:15:13.119 --> 01:15:16.039
So we're back to the original, correct?

01:15:16.039 --> 01:15:18.260
Because the motion is off the table?

01:15:18.260 --> 01:15:20.520
So the amendment is off the table.

01:15:20.520 --> 01:15:24.000
The last thing I recall was Alderman Stacey saying that she wanted to move this to the

01:15:24.000 --> 01:15:25.000
and the Cow.

01:15:25.000 --> 01:15:28.800
She tried to make that motion, but because we had Alderman Simmons' motion on the table

01:15:28.800 --> 01:15:34.520
that there, so I don't know if Alderman Stacy still wants to make that motion or not.

01:15:34.520 --> 01:15:38.359
Right now, it's moving to the next regular city council meeting.

01:15:38.359 --> 01:15:39.359
That's already out.

01:15:39.359 --> 01:15:42.680
I just have a question for Director Duckman.

01:15:42.680 --> 01:15:43.680
Okay.

01:15:43.680 --> 01:15:46.520
Alderman Stacy, go ahead.

01:15:46.520 --> 01:15:56.659
With the ones that you know are landlords, with the ones that you know have received

01:15:56.659 --> 01:16:05.029
a letter, are they 100% registered?

01:16:05.029 --> 01:16:07.310
No, they're not.

01:16:07.310 --> 01:16:08.310
No, they're not.

01:16:08.310 --> 01:16:15.149
The ones, when we go off of the previous year registries, we do not get 100% back.

01:16:15.149 --> 01:16:19.310
So there are, yes, there are people who are notified and are not registering.

01:16:19.310 --> 01:16:23.109
Alderman Monroe, did you have another point?

01:16:23.109 --> 01:16:25.670
I have a couple, Mayor.

01:16:25.670 --> 01:16:30.970
First question I'll ask, have we reconciled the list that we have sent out to the water

01:16:30.970 --> 01:16:37.569
and sewer billing, number one?

01:16:37.569 --> 01:16:38.569
That process...

01:16:38.569 --> 01:16:40.369
You can say all of your things, that way we don't have these follow-ups.

01:16:40.369 --> 01:16:44.810
Well, because if I do that, then he only answers one of them, and I'd like all of my questions

01:16:44.810 --> 01:17:16.020
Duckman is on 57 water bills, it'll go in and say you're renting 57 or 56 properties

01:17:16.020 --> 01:17:18.380
Higgins or to assume that.

01:17:18.380 --> 01:17:25.579
That is part of their, that is part of their logarithm. I will tell you that because we

01:17:25.579 --> 01:17:30.020
know that there's other, we've been through, I don't want to go down that issue of who

01:17:30.020 --> 01:17:34.939
gets the water bill, the landlord water bill thing, but that is one of the elements that

01:17:34.939 --> 01:17:39.939
it analyzes. But there are other ones, there are other parts of the logarithm that are,

01:17:39.939 --> 01:17:44.619
I will say, better at gathering, saying, hey, you're a landlord. But that is part of it,

01:17:44.619 --> 01:17:45.619
yes.

01:17:45.619 --> 01:17:46.619
and so on.

01:17:46.619 --> 01:17:56.260
So the follow-up on that was we spent $20,000 in the 2024 budget, I believe it was, ish.

01:17:56.260 --> 01:17:57.579
And that was approved.

01:17:57.579 --> 01:17:58.739
We got the software.

01:17:58.739 --> 01:18:00.859
We got the training.

01:18:00.859 --> 01:18:06.899
And now we're coming back thinking, okay, we're going to raise the fines, you know,

01:18:06.899 --> 01:18:11.460
Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, I'll just call them that for now.

01:18:11.460 --> 01:18:19.940
My question really is, how do we get to a point where we're actually going to go out and be

01:18:19.940 --> 01:18:27.020
more proactive in this approach as opposed to sending, you know, and there's businesses

01:18:27.020 --> 01:18:34.260
that do this and they fail miserably, sending notice to their current set of customers essentially.

01:18:34.260 --> 01:18:40.140
So the ones that have registered and the few that we know, how are we going to get past

01:18:40.140 --> 01:18:41.140
Miller.

01:18:41.140 --> 01:18:46.140
And that's this point because we can put as many fines on here if we don't know that they're

01:18:46.140 --> 01:18:51.100
renting their property, we have no clue that we should even be collecting these.

01:18:51.100 --> 01:18:55.260
And it comes back to this is more than just a small ordinance change.

01:18:55.260 --> 01:19:01.100
This is a significant ordinance change because we have to have a meaningful way to go and

01:19:01.100 --> 01:19:06.960
determine that properties are being leased inside the city limits of Freeport.

01:19:06.960 --> 01:19:12.800
Right now, it doesn't feel like we do, even though I'm told we do, and everybody seems

01:19:12.800 --> 01:19:18.199
to disagree with me, but at this point, we're at the same place we were a year ago when

01:19:18.199 --> 01:19:22.199
we approved the budget for this software.

01:19:22.199 --> 01:19:24.680
So how do we get past this is my question.

01:19:24.680 --> 01:19:31.559
Well, I'll disagree with you completely because before I didn't have a list that would say

01:19:31.559 --> 01:19:37.640
This list of properties here is suspected as being a rental property.

01:19:37.640 --> 01:19:40.880
I did not have that ability before.

01:19:40.880 --> 01:19:46.000
So this software and what took so long was...

01:19:46.000 --> 01:19:49.560
So, long was you had different, like for example, the county, it took a long time working with

01:19:49.560 --> 01:19:52.720
the county to get their data to integrate with our software.

01:19:52.720 --> 01:19:57.000
That took time for them to say, here's the scripts that you need to access this data.

01:19:57.000 --> 01:19:58.880
That just takes time.

01:19:58.880 --> 01:20:02.319
It also took time to work with the different water bill software.

01:20:02.319 --> 01:20:05.039
That just took time, but we didn't, you know, I didn't quit on it.

01:20:05.039 --> 01:20:09.800
I know Director Suttman's tired of hearing me saying, when am I going to get this information?

01:20:09.800 --> 01:20:11.279
Mr. Monroe is going to ask me about it again.

01:20:11.279 --> 01:20:12.279
He's going to ask me about it.

01:20:12.279 --> 01:20:17.539
I mean I we worked tirelessly to get all of this data to work and so the short

01:20:17.539 --> 01:20:22.000
answer your question is I could not get that list accurately before I just

01:20:22.000 --> 01:20:25.520
couldn't get it I did not have the ability to do it as well as I can now

01:20:25.520 --> 01:20:29.859
and it took time to get that to work no that's that's perfect because you're

01:20:29.859 --> 01:20:34.140
that that integration is what's going to draw everything in together and that's

01:20:34.140 --> 01:20:38.979
what I wasn't understanding it to this point and and really I think that's the

01:20:38.979 --> 01:20:39.979
Fowler.

01:20:39.979 --> 01:20:45.300
I think the important piece here, look, I think most of us agree 1,500, 3,000, 6,000 is not

01:20:45.300 --> 01:20:47.460
a steep enough amount.

01:20:47.460 --> 01:20:51.220
And I don't know if the Landlord Association or the Realtor Association would agree or

01:20:51.220 --> 01:20:52.220
disagree with that.

01:20:52.220 --> 01:20:58.380
I don't know if we can ask them their thoughts because they've given deep input into this.

01:20:58.380 --> 01:21:06.239
But if you're talking somebody, we're maxing it at 12 or 15 properties, if they've got

01:21:06.239 --> 01:21:07.239
Fowler.

01:21:07.239 --> 01:21:08.239
We've got that many properties.

01:21:08.239 --> 01:21:11.760
These fines are fairly insignificant, really, at the end of the day, because they're drawing

01:21:11.760 --> 01:21:20.439
in $800, $1,000 per property in most of these instances, you know, and I rented on Galena.

01:21:20.439 --> 01:21:25.960
So I'm pretty familiar with the rental properties in town and the rates, and that was 10 years

01:21:25.960 --> 01:21:28.159
ago when it was $800 a month.

01:21:28.159 --> 01:21:29.920
So now it's like $1,200.

01:21:29.920 --> 01:21:36.819
So I mean, we're literally finding them the equivalent of six months rent on six properties

01:21:36.819 --> 01:21:41.239
or one month's rent on six properties, not six months, one month rent on six properties.

01:21:41.239 --> 01:21:46.739
So you know, I think now that you've got that, I would be interested to see how many properties

01:21:46.739 --> 01:21:52.199
that might be that we would be able to contact that we've not contacted to this point.

01:21:52.199 --> 01:21:57.380
Well, there's plenty of time to have more discussions with the Realtors Association

01:21:57.380 --> 01:22:00.800
if they agree or disagree this is this is going to be moving forward the way it

01:22:00.800 --> 01:22:05.220
stands right now this would be moving forward to the December 2nd meeting. Madam

01:22:05.220 --> 01:22:13.260
clerk yeah I want to make sure we're all on the same page it's $100 per unit so

01:22:13.260 --> 01:22:19.359
if I owned ten residential houses and I didn't register I'd be fined a thousand

01:22:19.359 --> 01:22:20.359
Fowler.

01:22:20.359 --> 01:22:30.640
If I owned 10 apartment buildings that had 20 units, I would be fined $1,500 on each

01:22:30.640 --> 01:22:31.920
of those.

01:22:31.920 --> 01:22:33.199
That's the property max.

01:22:33.199 --> 01:22:35.840
That's not the landlord max.

01:22:35.840 --> 01:22:37.399
That's per property, correct?

01:22:37.399 --> 01:22:38.399
No.

01:22:38.399 --> 01:22:39.399
Correct?

01:22:39.399 --> 01:22:40.399
Is it?

01:22:40.399 --> 01:22:43.079
That's how the ordinance reads, per property.

01:22:43.079 --> 01:22:44.079
That's what I'm...

01:22:44.079 --> 01:22:45.079
Okay.

01:22:45.079 --> 01:22:46.079
That makes sense.

01:22:46.079 --> 01:22:47.079
Okay.

01:22:47.079 --> 01:22:57.100
I wanted her to say something, because she's about to...

01:22:57.100 --> 01:23:05.100
Correct me if I'm wrong, but if I had 10 apartment buildings that had even 20 units,

01:23:05.100 --> 01:23:13.100
my property max is $1,500, so my maximum fine would be $15,000 for my 10 properties.

01:23:13.100 --> 01:23:20.100
Sorry, it's like a math question here. 10 properties at, so you have 10 properties, and you're saying that each of them is a duplex?

01:23:20.100 --> 01:23:33.600
No, like a 12-20 unit apartment building, but we've maxed it at $1,500. So each of those apartment buildings are $1,500. That's per property max.

01:23:33.600 --> 01:23:42.100
Yes, that's how it reads. It says, I'm looking at it right here, and that's exactly how it reads. $1,500 property max.

01:23:42.100 --> 01:23:49.600
And so if I waited more than 90 days, I'd be fined $60,000 for my 10 apartment buildings.

01:23:49.600 --> 01:23:58.359
yes so I to me that's not insignificant but I don't own any I think the

01:23:58.359 --> 01:24:02.439
confusion was is we thought that that was a max for all of the properties instead

01:24:02.439 --> 01:24:08.199
of the unit so okay address that's why we needed a memo but that's I think

01:24:08.199 --> 01:24:12.520
that's kind of a confusing point and fair enough and and I understand that

01:24:12.520 --> 01:24:15.720
and I just wanted to say that the reason for the memo going out late was there is

01:24:15.720 --> 01:24:19.720
a blast meet there was one more meeting that went out and it didn't make I have

01:24:19.720 --> 01:24:21.720
and the rest of the board.

01:24:21.720 --> 01:24:27.720
So we're going to have to get these memos to Clerk Anderson by that Thursday.

01:24:27.720 --> 01:24:29.720
And this meeting happened after that Thursday.

01:24:29.720 --> 01:24:30.720
So you know what?

01:24:30.720 --> 01:24:31.720
That's okay.

01:24:31.720 --> 01:24:32.720
That's okay.

01:24:32.720 --> 01:24:33.720
No, I get it.

01:24:33.720 --> 01:24:34.720
It was a change at the last minute.

01:24:34.720 --> 01:24:35.720
That's where the confusion is, though.

01:24:35.720 --> 01:24:36.720
Understood.

01:24:36.720 --> 01:24:37.720
Okay.

01:24:37.720 --> 01:24:38.720
So look at the time.

01:24:38.720 --> 01:24:39.720
It's almost 730.

01:24:39.720 --> 01:24:40.720
We're on item number six.

01:24:40.720 --> 01:24:41.720
We've got 39 total.

01:24:41.720 --> 01:24:50.670
Are we ready to move on to second reading for this in December 2nd?

01:24:50.670 --> 01:24:55.710
the phones are always offices are open if you want to talk about detail on more

01:24:55.710 --> 01:25:00.149
move on to item number seven which is the first reading of ordinance 2024 63

01:25:00.149 --> 01:25:09.739
could you please read this that is because it moves on fiscal year 2025

01:25:09.739 --> 01:25:15.460
appropriation ordinance ordinance manager Boyer thank your honor so the

01:25:15.460 --> 01:25:19.739
each city fund and department has been presented to the committee the finance

01:25:19.739 --> 01:25:23.260
committee of the whole a series of meetings we've had starting September

01:25:23.260 --> 01:25:30.939
and John. We have had public input session dedicated and we have had public input before

01:25:30.939 --> 01:25:37.539
each of the budgets were read. Attached is the fiscal year 2025 in the appropriations

01:25:37.539 --> 01:25:42.539
ordinance format. The following adjustments have occurred over the past week and are incorporated

01:25:42.539 --> 01:25:48.500
in the final document. Slight increase in the city levy in the amount of $140,400 due

01:25:48.500 --> 01:25:54.140
due to receipt of estimated equalized assessed value with the corresponding decrease in the

01:25:54.140 --> 01:25:59.260
amount of required fund reserve. Also, the library budget items have been adjusted due

01:25:59.260 --> 01:26:04.340
to the receipt of the EAV numbers. The library will be able to increase their property tax

01:26:04.340 --> 01:26:11.180
revenue by $50,500. Staff recommends City Council move forward with this ordinance to

01:26:11.180 --> 01:26:14.220
the second reading to December 2nd.

01:26:14.220 --> 01:26:16.060
Is there a motion to move forward?

01:26:16.060 --> 01:26:17.060
So moved.

01:26:17.060 --> 01:26:18.060
Second.

01:26:18.060 --> 01:26:25.239
We have a motion by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

01:26:25.239 --> 01:26:29.920
Discussion on this ordinance.

01:26:29.920 --> 01:26:34.140
Move on to item number eight, which is the first reading of ordinance 2024-64.

01:26:34.140 --> 01:26:36.380
Could you please read this?

01:26:36.380 --> 01:26:38.819
Tax levy ordinance.

01:26:38.819 --> 01:26:39.819
Manager Boyer.

01:26:39.819 --> 01:26:40.819
Thank you, your honor.

01:26:40.819 --> 01:26:46.300
So annually the city council adopts a corporate levy to help finance the city's operation.

01:26:46.300 --> 01:26:52.500
is General Fund. We have received the estimated 2024 equalized assessed value or EAV as we

01:26:52.500 --> 01:26:58.979
just discussed from the county. The EAV for our tax district increased as mentioned before,

01:26:58.979 --> 01:27:08.779
but $15,102,367 or 5.61% over the last year. Based on this information, the city's levy

01:27:08.779 --> 01:27:21.060
for 2024 paid in 2025 would be $2,977,400, an increase of $140,400. A house valued at

01:27:21.060 --> 01:27:26.420
$100,000 would see no increase in the city's portion of their property tax bill as long

01:27:26.420 --> 01:27:31.380
as their assessed value has not increased. During the past five years, the City Council

01:27:31.380 --> 01:27:37.380
has kept the tax rate the same or slightly lower. Staff recommends City Council to move

01:27:37.380 --> 01:27:44.380
Seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on this ordinance. On to item number nine, which is the first reading of ordinance 20-24-81. Could you please read this?

01:27:44.380 --> 01:27:57.239
Library tax levy ordinance. Manager Boyer or Director Huffines? We've received the estimated 2024 equalized assessed value from the county. The EAV has increased by one percent.

01:27:57.239 --> 01:27:59.600
Library tax levy ordinance.

01:27:59.600 --> 01:28:02.079
Manager Boyer or Director Huffines.

01:28:02.079 --> 01:28:09.819
We've received the estimated 2024 equalized assessed value from the county.

01:28:09.819 --> 01:28:18.539
The EAV has increased by 15,102,367 over the last year.

01:28:18.539 --> 01:28:26.460
Based on the information, the library's levy for 2024 paid in 2025 will be 1,062,000.

01:28:26.460 --> 01:28:32.779
The library will see an overall increase of $50,500 in their levy. The library reduced their requests

01:28:32.779 --> 01:28:41.260
for Medicare, liability, insurance, unemployment, and Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund last year

01:28:41.260 --> 01:28:47.340
in order to spend down prior reserves in these areas. At that time we informed council that

01:28:47.340 --> 01:28:52.940
these rates would need to increase when the funds were exhausted. This year we need to increase those

01:28:52.940 --> 01:29:24.989
Settlers, Settlers, Settlers,

01:29:24.989 --> 01:29:30.670
a motion to abate. Madam Clerk, could you read all of those as one motion?

01:29:30.670 --> 01:29:36.670
Ordinance 2024 is to abate the 2024 real estate tax levy for the repayment of the general

01:29:36.670 --> 01:29:43.670
Obligation Bonds, Series 2013A, Ordinance 2024-66, is to abate the 2020-

01:30:42.300 --> 01:30:50.619
General Obligation Bonds, Series 2021. Lastly, Ordinance 2024-73 to abate the 2024 Real Estate

01:30:50.619 --> 01:30:55.500
Tax Levy for the repayment of the General Obligation Bonds, Series 2022.

01:30:56.539 --> 01:30:59.500
Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. When the General

01:30:59.500 --> 01:31:04.619
Obligation Bonds are issued, they're backed by the city's ability to levy and collect property taxes.

01:31:04.619 --> 01:31:09.420
Therefore, the county automatically levies the required annual debt service from the City of

01:31:09.420 --> 01:31:12.460
Freeport property owners on their property tax bills.

01:31:12.460 --> 01:31:15.180
The city has historically abated or canceled,

01:31:15.180 --> 01:31:18.340
is another word for it, this amount on the property tax.

01:31:18.340 --> 01:31:20.020
By passing an ordinance each year,

01:31:20.020 --> 01:31:21.899
the property taxes that would otherwise

01:31:21.899 --> 01:31:24.479
be collected from the residents is abated.

01:31:24.479 --> 01:31:27.020
And the city instead makes the debt service payments

01:31:27.020 --> 01:31:29.220
from other city revenues.

01:31:29.220 --> 01:31:34.619
So as Clerk Anderson has read to the council,

01:31:34.619 --> 01:31:39.060
the individual bonds issued are in the table provided.

01:31:39.060 --> 01:31:44.060
the amounts to be abated and the source of revenue that will be used to make the bond payments.

01:31:44.060 --> 01:31:52.340
We have also included the potential increased cost in property tax on a $100,000 home if the bonds are not abated.

01:31:52.340 --> 01:32:01.739
Ordinance to abate these bonds will be, it is before you now, to move on to the December 2nd meeting.

01:32:01.739 --> 01:32:04.939
Staff request we move this on to the December 2nd council.

01:32:04.939 --> 01:32:06.100
Is there such a motion?

01:32:06.100 --> 01:32:06.779
So moved.

01:32:06.779 --> 01:32:07.699
Second.

01:32:07.699 --> 01:32:11.140
A motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

01:32:11.140 --> 01:32:15.050
Discussion.

01:32:15.050 --> 01:32:19.170
Item number 11 is the first reading of ordinance 2024-74.

01:32:19.170 --> 01:32:20.449
Could you please read this?

01:32:20.449 --> 01:32:22.890
Ordinance, approving airport hanger lease M4

01:32:22.890 --> 01:32:25.010
with Ken and Paula Erwin.

01:32:25.010 --> 01:32:26.250
Manager Boyer.

01:32:26.250 --> 01:32:27.529
Thank you, Your Honor.

01:32:27.529 --> 01:32:30.369
Kenneth and Paula Erwin are interested in leasing hanger

01:32:30.369 --> 01:32:31.810
M4 at Alberta's airport.

01:32:31.810 --> 01:32:35.550
The agreement will generate $165 per month of city revenue,

01:32:35.550 --> 01:32:38.890
and staff recommends the approval of the hanger lease.

01:32:38.890 --> 01:32:39.890
Is there such a motion?

01:32:39.890 --> 01:32:40.890
So moved.

01:32:40.890 --> 01:32:41.890
Second.

01:32:41.890 --> 01:32:49.090
A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm to move Ordinance 20-24-74

01:32:49.090 --> 01:32:50.970
onto the next regular scheduled meeting.

01:32:50.970 --> 01:32:53.609
Is it Alderman Monroe?

01:32:53.609 --> 01:32:56.729
Manager Boyer, this is a question for you.

01:32:56.729 --> 01:33:00.930
Is there a need with these to just suspend the rules and get these done?

01:33:00.930 --> 01:33:05.890
Same meeting, would that make a lot, it makes a lot of sense to me, and actually I'll just

01:33:05.890 --> 01:33:06.890
bypass that.

01:33:06.890 --> 01:33:11.810
Say, I'd like to suspend the rules and move this forward to second reading now.

01:33:11.810 --> 01:33:12.810
Second.

01:33:12.810 --> 01:33:18.489
Okay, so we have a motion on the floor made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Parker

01:33:18.489 --> 01:33:20.170
for suspension of the rules.

01:33:20.170 --> 01:33:24.210
Suspension of the rules is non-debatable and must pass by two-thirds majority.

01:33:24.210 --> 01:33:27.409
Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll on the suspension only?

01:33:27.409 --> 01:33:28.409
Stacy?

01:33:28.409 --> 01:33:29.409
Aye.

01:33:29.409 --> 01:33:30.409
Shadle?

01:33:30.409 --> 01:33:31.409
Aye.

01:33:31.409 --> 01:33:32.409
Sanders?

01:33:32.409 --> 01:33:33.409
Aye.

01:33:33.409 --> 01:33:34.409
Sellers?

01:33:34.409 --> 01:33:35.409
Aye.

01:33:35.409 --> 01:33:36.409
Klemm?

01:33:36.409 --> 01:33:42.329
Aye. Suspension of the rules passes 8 to 0. So now before you council is as if it

01:33:42.329 --> 01:33:48.000
were the second reading of this ordinance. Discussion on this? Madam Clerk

01:33:48.000 --> 01:33:56.279
please take the roll. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye.

01:33:56.279 --> 01:34:04.359
Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. And the ordinance is adopted 8 to 0. Item number 12 is

01:34:04.359 --> 01:34:08.359
This is first reading of Ordinance 2024-75. Could you please read that?

01:34:08.359 --> 01:34:14.359
Ordinance approving airport hangar lease E1 with PropWash LLC.

01:34:14.359 --> 01:34:15.359
Manager Boyer.

01:34:15.359 --> 01:34:20.359
Thank you, Your Honor. If it suits the Council, I'd like us to suspend the rules on this one as well.

01:34:20.359 --> 01:34:26.359
There's a plane owned by PropWash LLC. It's scheduled for repairs, which may last three to six months.

01:34:26.359 --> 01:34:33.600
Heritage Arrow currently has no space available to store the plane and PropRosh LLC will lease

01:34:33.600 --> 01:34:38.680
Hangar E1 for a few months while the airplane is undergoing repairs.

01:34:38.680 --> 01:34:42.720
Staff recommends approval of the hangar lease at $215 per month.

01:34:42.720 --> 01:34:45.600
Is there a motion to move this forward?

01:34:45.600 --> 01:34:47.319
Aye.

01:34:47.319 --> 01:34:51.760
Motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

01:34:51.760 --> 01:34:56.319
Motion to suspend the rules, actually, unless anybody's got questions.

01:34:56.319 --> 01:35:04.760
We have a motion for, oh, I'll wait and if somebody's got questions, is there a discussion concerning this ordinance?

01:35:07.640 --> 01:35:09.640
Motion to suspend the rules, Mayor. Second.

01:35:10.979 --> 01:35:17.880
We have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers for suspension of the rules. Again, suspension of the rules.

01:35:17.880 --> 01:35:20.159
Oh, it was Stacy. I'm sorry. Yep.

01:35:21.600 --> 01:35:23.960
Make that correction, seconded by Alderman Stacy.

01:35:23.960 --> 01:35:25.960
and

01:35:27.159 --> 01:35:30.079
Stacey. Suspension of the rules is non-debatable. Madame Clerk,

01:35:30.079 --> 01:35:32.079
could you please take the role on the suspension only?

01:35:32.079 --> 01:35:34.079
Stacey?

01:35:34.079 --> 01:35:36.079
Aye. Shadle?

01:35:36.079 --> 01:35:38.079
Aye. Sanders?

01:35:38.079 --> 01:35:40.079
Aye. Sellers?

01:35:40.079 --> 01:35:42.079
Aye. Klemm?

01:35:42.079 --> 01:35:44.079
Aye. Monroe?

01:35:44.079 --> 01:35:46.079
Aye. Simmons?

01:35:46.079 --> 01:35:48.079
Absent. Thank you for that.

01:35:48.079 --> 01:35:50.079
Parker?

01:35:50.079 --> 01:35:52.079
Aye. The motion still passes 7-0.

01:35:52.079 --> 01:35:54.079
Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

01:35:54.079 --> 01:35:55.079
Stacy?

01:35:55.079 --> 01:35:56.079
Aye.

01:35:56.079 --> 01:35:57.079
Shadle?

01:35:57.079 --> 01:35:58.079
Aye.

01:35:58.079 --> 01:35:59.079
Sanders?

01:35:59.079 --> 01:36:00.079
Aye.

01:36:00.079 --> 01:36:01.079
Sellers?

01:36:01.079 --> 01:36:02.079
Aye.

01:36:02.079 --> 01:36:03.079
Klemm?

01:36:03.079 --> 01:36:04.079
Aye.

01:36:04.079 --> 01:36:05.079
Monroe?

01:36:05.079 --> 01:36:06.079
Aye.

01:36:06.079 --> 01:36:07.079
Simmons?

01:36:07.079 --> 01:36:08.079
Well, I did it again.

01:36:08.079 --> 01:36:09.079
Parker?

01:36:09.079 --> 01:36:10.079
Aye.

01:36:10.079 --> 01:36:11.079
And the ordinance passes.

01:36:11.079 --> 01:36:12.079
7-1.

01:36:12.079 --> 01:36:13.079
And item number 13 is the first ring of ordinance.

01:36:13.079 --> 01:36:14.079
7-0.

01:36:14.079 --> 01:36:15.079
7-0.

01:36:15.079 --> 01:36:16.079
7-0.

01:36:16.079 --> 01:36:17.079
Thank you for the correction.

01:36:17.079 --> 01:36:18.079
7-0.

01:36:18.079 --> 01:36:19.079
Wait a minute.

01:36:19.079 --> 01:36:20.079
Are you good?

01:36:20.079 --> 01:36:25.760
Wait a minute are you good? No I'm fine. Okay. Item number 13 is the first reading

01:36:25.760 --> 01:36:36.680
of ordinance 2024-76. Could you please read this? Ordinance approving two airport

01:36:36.680 --> 01:36:41.279
farm leases with Matt Phil and Will Kemple and a second one with Dan

01:36:41.279 --> 01:36:47.239
Julius. Manager Boyer. Thank you your honor. Staff's been working very hard on

01:36:47.239 --> 01:36:52.680
getting the farm leases squared away. We're coming to you tonight with Matt,

01:36:52.680 --> 01:36:58.640
Phil and Will Kempel and Dan Julius. Staff recommends moving forward with the two

01:36:58.640 --> 01:37:04.800
farm leases before you tonight and if so inclined please feel free to suspend the

01:37:04.800 --> 01:37:12.779
rules on this. Is there a motion to move this forward? So moved. Alderman Monroe and I

01:37:12.779 --> 01:37:14.779
I didn't catch the second.

01:37:14.779 --> 01:37:16.539
Sellers, Shadle?

01:37:16.539 --> 01:37:18.979
OK.

01:37:18.979 --> 01:37:20.539
Motion to suspend.

01:37:20.539 --> 01:37:25.069
Second.

01:37:25.069 --> 01:37:27.029
Can we have some discussion here?

01:37:27.029 --> 01:37:27.909
Yeah, yeah, yeah.

01:37:27.909 --> 01:37:31.670
Well, actually, we have a motion on the table

01:37:31.670 --> 01:37:32.989
for suspension of the rules.

01:37:32.989 --> 01:37:34.069
So that's non-debatable.

01:37:34.069 --> 01:37:36.710
We have that by Alderman Klemm seconded by Alderman Monroe.

01:37:36.710 --> 01:37:38.710
So that's what's on the table right now.

01:37:38.710 --> 01:37:40.590
So Madam Clerk, could you please take the role

01:37:40.590 --> 01:37:41.909
on this suspension of the rules?

01:37:41.909 --> 01:37:43.310
Stacy?

01:37:43.310 --> 01:37:43.810
Aye.

01:37:43.810 --> 01:37:44.550
Shadle?

01:37:44.550 --> 01:37:45.050
Aye.

01:37:45.050 --> 01:37:45.550
Sanders?

01:37:45.550 --> 01:37:46.050
Aye.

01:37:46.050 --> 01:38:16.050
Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. And Parker? Aye. Okay so now before you is the second reading of this ordinance discussion? Yes. Okay. So there appear to be a different visual piece of paper called the contract. Is that what they're going to look like? Is that the final draft of the farmland

01:38:16.050 --> 01:38:26.890
Ealderman, Stacy, this farm lease is actually a standard form that is used statewide and

01:38:26.890 --> 01:38:33.409
is recommended by the University of Illinois and the other ag organizations.

01:38:33.409 --> 01:38:39.329
So this is a standard lease that everyone uses and it's accepted because everybody's

01:38:39.329 --> 01:38:40.770
used to seeing it.

01:38:40.770 --> 01:38:44.409
This is a standard lease for land leases in Illinois.

01:38:44.409 --> 01:38:50.809
okay I just asked is that what we have adopted is that what that's what's before you right now

01:38:50.809 --> 01:38:54.970
we haven't adopted anything yet that's what your vote is going to be on

01:38:56.890 --> 01:39:03.449
okay Darren I think her question is is this is the standard format that we're going to use

01:39:03.449 --> 01:39:13.300
which it is the format that we're planning on using for everyone yes thank you there's no

01:39:13.300 --> 01:39:14.300
No further discussion?

01:39:14.300 --> 01:39:17.300
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:39:17.300 --> 01:39:19.420
On final passage, Stacy?

01:39:19.420 --> 01:39:20.420
Aye.

01:39:20.420 --> 01:39:21.420
Shadle?

01:39:21.420 --> 01:39:22.420
Aye.

01:39:22.420 --> 01:39:23.420
Sanders?

01:39:23.420 --> 01:39:24.420
Aye.

01:39:24.420 --> 01:39:25.420
Sellers?

01:39:25.420 --> 01:39:26.420
Aye.

01:39:26.420 --> 01:39:27.420
Klemm?

01:39:27.420 --> 01:39:28.420
Aye.

01:39:28.420 --> 01:39:29.420
Monroe?

01:39:29.420 --> 01:39:30.420
Aye.

01:39:30.420 --> 01:39:31.420
Simmons?

01:39:31.420 --> 01:39:32.420
Aye.

01:39:32.420 --> 01:39:33.420
And Parker?

01:39:33.420 --> 01:39:34.420
Aye.

01:39:34.420 --> 01:39:35.420
And that ordinance passes 8-0.

01:39:35.420 --> 01:39:36.420
Item number 14 is the first reading of ordinance 2024-77.

01:39:36.420 --> 01:39:37.420
Could you please read this?

01:39:37.420 --> 01:39:39.979
Ordinance of the City of Freeport approving and authorizing a vehicle lease agreement

01:39:39.979 --> 01:39:42.020
with the Stevenson County Senior Center doing.

01:39:42.020 --> 01:39:42.359
with the Stevenson County Senior Center doing business

01:39:42.359 --> 01:39:44.560
as Senior Resource Center.

01:39:44.560 --> 01:39:46.399
Director Duckman.

01:39:46.399 --> 01:39:48.079
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

01:39:48.079 --> 01:39:51.760
So staff, the Senior Resource Center currently

01:39:51.760 --> 01:39:56.439
holds two vehicles for its own that it uses and received

01:39:56.439 --> 01:39:59.279
through the 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors

01:39:59.279 --> 01:40:01.880
and Individuals with Disabilities Program.

01:40:01.880 --> 01:40:03.760
So what this essentially means is

01:40:03.760 --> 01:40:07.000
they have two vehicles that they received in their ownership

01:40:07.000 --> 01:40:09.199
for that specific program.

01:40:09.199 --> 01:40:14.039
So now one of these vehicles, bus number 23, is not actively used by SRC.

01:40:14.039 --> 01:40:19.300
So what this means is they received the vehicle for one program and they're not using it.

01:40:19.300 --> 01:40:24.380
And the Pretzel City area transit, which is the program that we operate, we are in need

01:40:24.380 --> 01:40:26.800
of more vehicles.

01:40:26.800 --> 01:40:35.300
And to give a little background here, last year I sent a resolution to work with the

01:40:35.300 --> 01:40:36.300
Huffines.

01:40:36.300 --> 01:40:37.300
Thank you.

01:40:37.300 --> 01:40:38.300
Thank you.

01:40:38.300 --> 01:40:39.300
and I.

01:40:39.300 --> 01:40:42.140
Eventually enter into a lease agreement and it was estimated that that would take two

01:40:42.140 --> 01:40:46.979
years for the Illinois Department of Transportation to bring a vehicle up here because of the

01:40:46.979 --> 01:40:49.619
backlog of buses that they have.

01:40:49.619 --> 01:40:54.979
And so what this background is essentially informing you of is that our program needs

01:40:54.979 --> 01:41:00.600
buses and the Senior Resource Center who operates our program.

01:41:00.600 --> 01:41:05.380
So it sounds confusing, but the Senior Resource Center puts the Pretzel City Area Transit

01:41:05.380 --> 01:41:10.500
on the buses and they're the ones who actually hires the drivers is operating this program.

01:41:10.500 --> 01:41:16.260
And so this bus that we're talking about, bus number 23, it's just being used for a

01:41:16.260 --> 01:41:21.859
different program and it's not being utilized in that program and our staff is saying we

01:41:21.859 --> 01:41:27.380
have a need for vehicles and they said we can lease you that vehicle to meet that need.

01:41:27.380 --> 01:41:29.979
So that's essentially what's going on here.

01:41:29.979 --> 01:41:35.220
And I go a little further in the memorandum and I talk about how we currently have 16 vehicles.

01:41:35.220 --> 01:41:36.220
Huffines.

01:41:36.220 --> 01:41:37.220
This would bring us to 17.

01:41:37.220 --> 01:41:40.619
And one of the issues we have is working with older vehicles, because we have a shortage

01:41:40.619 --> 01:41:41.619
of vehicles.

01:41:41.619 --> 01:41:47.180
So oftentimes, these vehicles are taken out of the fleet, and they're being maintained

01:41:47.180 --> 01:41:49.300
because they're older.

01:41:49.300 --> 01:41:55.819
So that being said, staff is recommending moving this forward.

01:41:55.819 --> 01:41:59.539
As our public had mentioned earlier, this is a dollar lease.

01:41:59.539 --> 01:42:06.979
and I want to also state that anything that is done with the pretzel city area transit

01:42:06.979 --> 01:42:13.479
program, it's all being approved of and directed by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

01:42:13.479 --> 01:42:18.100
So this particular lease, how it is structured is directly from the Illinois Department of

01:42:18.100 --> 01:42:25.119
Transportation saying, you should do, if you want this bus, you need to do it this way

01:42:25.119 --> 01:42:32.159
for us to approve it because the Downstate Operating Assistance Program and the 5311

01:42:32.159 --> 01:42:40.319
funds total $1.2 million in funding for our public transportation and that basically tells

01:42:40.319 --> 01:42:45.500
us you're going to do run your program this way or you're not getting the money and they're

01:42:45.500 --> 01:42:50.880
very strict on how they do it. So that's what's before you and staff recommends moving this

01:42:50.880 --> 01:42:51.880
forward.

01:42:51.880 --> 01:42:53.359
Is there a motion to move forward?

01:42:53.359 --> 01:42:54.359
So moved.

01:42:54.359 --> 01:43:08.199
Do you have what they're requesting or what they're saying is going to have to happen?

01:43:08.199 --> 01:43:14.199
That's right in front. This lease agreement is exactly that. That's exactly what they have told us.

01:43:14.199 --> 01:43:22.920
So the city would be responsible for the maintenance and the insurance and all that coverage?

01:43:22.920 --> 01:43:52.920
It is always that is how all vehicles are done. All vehicles are done that way. And yes, it is the city of Freeport funded through the downstate operating assistance program and the 5311 program, which are two grants that fund the program. So it says city of Freeport is responsible. However, the money is coming from the state to fund it. So it's covered 100 percent is correct. And we have a driver for this bus 23. Yes.

01:43:52.920 --> 01:43:53.920
Huffines.

01:43:53.920 --> 01:43:58.079
Yes, yes, we have drivers, yes.

01:43:58.079 --> 01:44:04.119
As I was saying, the driver for this driver, the initiative behind this bus, pardon the

01:44:04.119 --> 01:44:10.119
pun there, is that we have old vehicles that are out, we have vehicles that go out for

01:44:10.119 --> 01:44:16.760
maintenance and we need more vehicles for our drivers to operate so we can actually

01:44:16.760 --> 01:44:22.529
have better service and meet the needs of our people.

01:44:22.529 --> 01:44:31.939
Anyone else? Then we will move on to item number 15, which is the first reading of ordinance

01:44:31.939 --> 01:44:35.819
2024-78. Could you please read this?

01:44:35.819 --> 01:44:40.859
Ordinance approving special use permit application at 1161 West Lincoln Boulevard, submitted

01:44:40.859 --> 01:44:47.779
by LGCY Installation Services to examine the special use of an R4 one-family residence

01:44:47.779 --> 01:44:54.260
zoned property to allow for solar energy systems which utilize ground mounted PV arrays per

01:44:54.260 --> 01:44:57.899
Per section 1250.01B20.

01:44:57.899 --> 01:44:58.899
Thank you.

01:44:58.899 --> 01:44:59.899
Director Duckman.

01:44:59.899 --> 01:45:08.489
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

01:45:08.489 --> 01:45:15.130
The staff received a special use permit from legacy installation services for a solar

01:45:15.130 --> 01:45:21.470
energy system that is using ground mounted PV arrays and the address is 1161 West Lincoln

01:45:21.470 --> 01:45:23.069
Boulevard.

01:45:23.069 --> 01:45:27.890
And for some background here, when you are in the residential zoning districts, you need

01:45:27.890 --> 01:45:31.329
a special use permit to do ground mounted solar.

01:45:31.329 --> 01:45:46.310
So you do not need a special use permit if you're putting it on your roof, and if you look at the screen here, you're going to see what's being proposed here at 1161.

01:45:46.310 --> 01:45:58.310
And so, right here is a 10 foot by 30 foot, 300 square foot solar mounted array.

01:45:58.310 --> 01:46:05.630
and it's going to be at a maximum height of 10 feet, so 10 feet by 30 by 10 and

01:46:05.630 --> 01:46:10.550
that's what in order to move forward with the building permit when you do this in

01:46:10.550 --> 01:46:14.989
a residential neighborhood you have to go through a special use process and so

01:46:14.989 --> 01:46:21.550
on November 7th of 2024 we had a hearing, our staff had a hearing and the

01:46:21.550 --> 01:46:25.670
Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval by a vote of five yeas, zero nays

01:46:25.670 --> 01:46:33.350
Knaes, and one abstention to allow, and they recommended approval of this special use permit.

01:46:33.350 --> 01:46:38.510
On November 14th, the Planning Commission did not recommend approval, and they did so

01:46:38.510 --> 01:46:42.229
by a vote of three yeas, four nays, and zero abstentions.

01:46:42.229 --> 01:46:45.869
I want to state a couple points here.

01:46:45.869 --> 01:46:51.789
First of all, the hearing where, who essentially makes the recommendation is the Zoning Board

01:46:51.789 --> 01:46:52.789
of Appeals.

01:46:52.789 --> 01:46:53.789
They recommended approval.

01:46:53.789 --> 01:47:23.789
It is important to note that our planning commission had a strong discussion about this particular special use permit and there was a good discussion on and really what it came down to was property rights versus the overall strategic plan of our city in terms of do we want as a city in the future to move forward with keeping a special use permit for allowing ground mounted

01:48:26.989 --> 01:48:27.989
Wendt.

01:48:27.989 --> 01:48:31.430
We're recommending moving this forward.

01:48:31.430 --> 01:48:32.750
So you are making a recommendation?

01:48:32.750 --> 01:48:33.750
I'm sorry.

01:48:33.750 --> 01:48:34.750
No.

01:48:34.750 --> 01:48:35.750
I take that.

01:48:35.750 --> 01:48:41.149
In terms of we're recommending moving this forward into our second reading is what I'm

01:48:41.149 --> 01:48:42.149
saying.

01:48:42.149 --> 01:48:44.510
Because it's a first reading of an ordinance.

01:48:44.510 --> 01:48:45.510
Right.

01:48:45.510 --> 01:48:47.550
But I think your notes say you're not making a recommendation.

01:48:47.550 --> 01:48:48.550
Correct.

01:48:48.550 --> 01:48:49.550
So when it was presented...

01:48:49.550 --> 01:48:50.550
Sorry.

01:48:50.550 --> 01:48:51.550
Go ahead.

01:48:51.550 --> 01:48:55.590
I think Wayne's just making the recommendation right now to move it forward so that the council

01:48:55.590 --> 01:48:56.210
and

01:48:56.210 --> 01:48:57.590
the

01:48:57.590 --> 01:49:00.590
second

01:49:00.590 --> 01:49:01.590
reading.

01:49:01.590 --> 01:49:02.590
Yes.

01:49:02.590 --> 01:49:03.590
They want to vote on it.

01:49:03.590 --> 01:49:06.350
So is there a motion to move it forward?

01:49:06.350 --> 01:49:09.979
I'd make a motion to deny it.

01:49:09.979 --> 01:49:10.979
Is there a second to deny?

01:49:10.979 --> 01:49:13.979
No, I wanted to move it forward.

01:49:13.979 --> 01:49:14.979
No.

01:49:14.979 --> 01:49:15.979
So hang on.

01:49:15.979 --> 01:49:17.979
So we always want to make our motions in the positive.

01:49:17.979 --> 01:49:21.979
So if you're against it, then you just vote no.

01:49:21.979 --> 01:49:25.899
Okay.

01:49:25.899 --> 01:49:27.899
I make a motion to move it forward.

01:49:27.899 --> 01:49:30.899
Is there a second?

01:49:30.899 --> 01:49:38.380
second. Okay we have a motion made by Alderman Stacey, seconded by Alderman

01:49:38.380 --> 01:49:41.899
Sanders to move ordinance

01:49:41.899 --> 01:49:43.359
onto the next regularly scheduled meeting.

01:49:43.359 --> 01:49:45.039
Is there a discussion?

01:49:45.039 --> 01:49:46.079
Alderman Stacey.

01:49:46.079 --> 01:49:51.079
Yes, I just feel like if I'm thinking correct,

01:49:54.520 --> 01:49:59.520
we already have approved this for one person in this city.

01:50:00.760 --> 01:50:03.399
And I'm big on that.

01:50:03.399 --> 01:50:07.500
If we do it for one, why can't we do it for the other?

01:50:08.000 --> 01:50:16.000
What business is it of ours to tell people what they can and cannot do on their property?

01:50:16.000 --> 01:50:21.000
Why would we do it for others?

01:50:21.000 --> 01:50:25.000
And now, this time, there's a problem.

01:50:25.000 --> 01:50:31.000
I don't know how that balances, why it's okay for this person, but it's not.

01:50:31.000 --> 01:50:33.000
I can answer that.

01:50:33.000 --> 01:50:40.039
So, you have zoning, whether it's residential, commercial, manufacturing, etc.

01:50:40.039 --> 01:50:43.439
You have uses that are allowed by right, which goes exactly to your point.

01:50:43.439 --> 01:50:48.239
In a residential area, if your intended primary use is to build a house, you're allowed to

01:50:48.239 --> 01:50:49.239
do that by right.

01:50:49.239 --> 01:50:54.319
You still have to get a permit, a building permit, but the use itself is allowed by right.

01:50:54.319 --> 01:51:01.039
You're not allowed in a residential area to build an automobile shop.

01:51:01.039 --> 01:51:02.039
You can't fix cars.

01:51:02.039 --> 01:51:07.159
Can't tear down that house and you're not allowed to go to go over there and build a car a car shop

01:51:07.680 --> 01:51:11.600
Now there are what's called land uses that fall in the middle

01:51:11.600 --> 01:51:18.020
Which is what's called a special use permit and the reason for a special use permit is to put it through a hearing process

01:51:18.699 --> 01:51:22.220
to say it's something that council wants to something that our

01:51:23.159 --> 01:51:30.680
Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Commission ultimately council wants to vote on as a land use does is this appropriate?

01:51:30.680 --> 01:51:31.680
Fowler.

01:51:31.680 --> 01:51:37.779
This could be a residential house that maybe is on a bigger lot and they're putting the

01:51:37.779 --> 01:51:43.460
panel in an area that might be less intrusive in the opinion of the commission and the council.

01:51:43.460 --> 01:51:50.600
So the point is our ordinance has several special uses where it is the job of ultimately

01:51:50.600 --> 01:51:58.880
our council members to say is this use appropriate or not because that is exactly how the ordinance

01:51:58.880 --> 01:51:59.880
reads.

01:51:59.880 --> 01:52:04.340
There are certain land uses that require a special use permit because what we are saying,

01:52:04.340 --> 01:52:09.779
what is being contemplated in the ordinance is this particular land use needs to be looked

01:52:09.779 --> 01:52:15.479
at on a case-by-case basis. It is not a I am in a residential zoning district, I am allowed

01:52:15.479 --> 01:52:22.159
by right to have a house. It is not that simple per our ordinance. It requires each case requires

01:52:22.159 --> 01:52:25.880
to be looked at individually. That is exactly what this is.

01:52:25.880 --> 01:52:32.899
Director? Alderman Sellers had her hand up for speaking next. So has there been

01:52:32.899 --> 01:52:39.979
complaints from the the neighbors on the 10-foot of being 10 feet high? We have not

01:52:39.979 --> 01:52:45.880
one neighbor called spoke with spoke with staff and did not and just wanted

01:52:45.880 --> 01:52:51.039
information because this was notified by a yard and by mail notice to neighbors

01:52:51.039 --> 01:52:54.699
and they said okay sounds good they were told about the hearing they said they

01:52:54.699 --> 01:52:58.020
We're going to show up. They had no objection. There was one call.

01:52:58.020 --> 01:52:59.020
Darren.

01:52:59.020 --> 01:53:08.859
I sit on the Planning Commission, and I'll give you the stances from both views. I was

01:53:08.859 --> 01:53:17.439
on the NAE side as I think four people were at the meeting. The other two people that

01:53:17.439 --> 01:53:23.340
were approved while I have been on the Planning Commission had much, much larger lots, and

01:53:23.340 --> 01:53:25.000
they weren't intrusive to the neighbors

01:53:25.000 --> 01:53:27.039
where they set these units.

01:53:27.039 --> 01:53:29.560
And there wasn't, the unit itself

01:53:29.560 --> 01:53:31.279
wasn't nearly as big as this unit.

01:53:32.520 --> 01:53:35.600
This is a very tight lot in comparison to those.

01:53:35.600 --> 01:53:39.039
And one of the comments that was made in the nays

01:53:39.039 --> 01:53:41.319
was this will be no different than a large RV

01:53:41.319 --> 01:53:42.479
that somebody sets out there

01:53:42.479 --> 01:53:44.600
and lets rust in their yard over the years.

01:53:44.600 --> 01:53:46.000
And it's not gonna get moved

01:53:46.000 --> 01:53:48.380
because it's gonna be there for 30 years.

01:53:48.380 --> 01:53:51.680
Where a rusted RV, we actually have code compliance

01:53:51.680 --> 01:53:52.920
that we don't allow that.

01:53:54.119 --> 01:53:57.239
On the yay sides, one comment that was made

01:53:57.239 --> 01:53:59.439
and I think it was by Mr. Atkinson

01:53:59.439 --> 01:54:01.119
that was on the committee too,

01:54:01.119 --> 01:54:03.159
was he didn't feel like we had a right

01:54:03.159 --> 01:54:06.880
to tell somebody what to do with their property.

01:54:06.880 --> 01:54:09.880
But in respect to that,

01:54:09.880 --> 01:54:12.899
the reason that it's gotta come through council

01:54:12.899 --> 01:54:16.060
is because the forefathers that set these ordinances

01:54:16.060 --> 01:54:19.079
wanted it to be evaluated case by case.

01:54:19.079 --> 01:54:21.920
If they would have chosen to put this on their roof,

01:54:21.920 --> 01:54:23.239
it would have never made it to council

01:54:23.239 --> 01:54:24.520
because they have the right to do that.

01:54:24.520 --> 01:54:27.359
It's the ground mounting that is the question

01:54:27.359 --> 01:54:32.529
whether it fits each purpose.

01:54:32.529 --> 01:54:33.569
Any other discussion?

01:54:34.609 --> 01:54:35.689
Can you turn the light back on?

01:54:35.689 --> 01:54:38.750
Yeah.

01:54:38.750 --> 01:54:40.229
Any other first time discussion?

01:54:40.229 --> 01:54:41.989
If not, Alderman Stacey.

01:54:41.989 --> 01:54:46.250
I just want to say we have allowed this more than once.

01:54:47.090 --> 01:54:51.470
And all the ordinance and all the rules

01:54:51.470 --> 01:54:54.069
and all the do's and don'ts was not pulled out

01:54:54.069 --> 01:54:57.430
because it was something you all were for.

01:54:59.189 --> 01:55:06.689
And we do it for one, we do it for the other.

01:55:11.590 --> 01:55:13.710
If the neighbors had a problem with this,

01:55:13.710 --> 01:55:17.670
I believe they would have come forth by now.

01:55:17.670 --> 01:55:19.789
Would that be a true statement?

01:55:19.789 --> 01:55:26.109
Yes, I would agree with that.

01:55:26.109 --> 01:55:28.109
Okay, we'll move on to the next item.

01:55:28.109 --> 01:55:31.550
Number 16 is the first ring of ordinance 2024-79.

01:55:31.550 --> 01:55:32.909
Would you please read this?

01:55:32.909 --> 01:55:36.750
Ordinance approving special use application at 1373 South

01:55:36.750 --> 01:55:40.270
Locust Avenue submitted by Sindio Networks

01:55:40.270 --> 01:55:44.630
to examine the special use of an R41 family residence zone

01:55:44.630 --> 01:55:47.710
property to allow for a telephone exchange

01:55:47.710 --> 01:55:53.229
and other similar public service uses per section 1250.01B8.

01:55:53.229 --> 01:55:54.210
Director Duckman.

01:55:54.210 --> 01:55:56.229
Yes, and Director Suttman, would you

01:55:56.229 --> 01:55:58.270
mind scrolling down just a little bit

01:55:58.270 --> 01:56:02.300
so they could see the picture?

01:56:02.300 --> 01:56:12.199
Could we clip the lights?

01:56:12.199 --> 01:56:15.220
So staff has received a special use application

01:56:15.220 --> 01:56:16.779
from Cindio Networks.

01:56:16.779 --> 01:56:20.319
And this is for the installation of a telecommunications

01:56:20.319 --> 01:56:21.399
distribution cabinet.

01:56:21.399 --> 01:56:24.539
And the address is 1373 South Locust Avenue,

01:56:24.539 --> 01:56:27.500
right across from the high school.

01:56:27.500 --> 01:56:32.399
And so the subject property is in the residential zoning

01:56:32.399 --> 01:56:33.220
district.

01:56:33.220 --> 01:56:36.680
And what's interesting here is this

01:56:36.680 --> 01:56:39.119
is for fiber optics, running fiber optics

01:56:39.119 --> 01:56:40.119
Huffines.

01:56:40.119 --> 01:56:46.319
And what's interesting here is the utility company or the fiber optic company actually

01:56:46.319 --> 01:56:50.680
purchased the lot as opposed to doing an easement.

01:56:50.680 --> 01:56:56.600
Oftentimes you'll have an easement carved out for these pedestals like you'll see here.

01:56:56.600 --> 01:56:57.600
You'll see them.

01:56:57.600 --> 01:57:00.600
They're usually carving out an easement on somebody else's property.

01:57:00.600 --> 01:57:04.720
But in this situation, they own the property and in order when you have a residentially

01:57:04.720 --> 01:57:13.000
Zorn property, if you're going to put up a utility structure, utility shed, something

01:57:13.000 --> 01:57:19.439
of that nature, it is required to go through the special use process.

01:57:19.439 --> 01:57:25.359
And so this one was already constructed and it was, since it was already constructed and

01:57:25.359 --> 01:57:30.960
they thought that they had the right to do so through an older agreement, through discussions

01:57:30.960 --> 01:57:34.640
Huffines with staff, we told them they had to go through the special use process and

01:57:34.640 --> 01:57:39.640
they agreed to do so and that is what brought us to this point.

01:57:39.640 --> 01:57:48.640
The specifications on this is it is approximately a 2 foot by 3 foot by 4 foot high cabinet

01:57:48.640 --> 01:57:50.279
as you see there.

01:57:50.279 --> 01:57:55.439
Now this went on November 7th to our Zoning Board of Appeals and it was recommended by

01:57:55.439 --> 01:57:59.279
a vote of 6 yeas, 0 nays and 0 abstentions.

01:57:59.279 --> 01:58:06.399
Now, our Zoning Board of Appeals made a point that, and they made a condition, and the same

01:58:06.399 --> 01:58:12.720
condition later on was agreed upon by our Planning Commission, was that a landscaping

01:58:12.720 --> 01:58:18.000
screen had to be approved by staff as part of the special use. And that's allowed in

01:58:18.000 --> 01:58:24.779
our ordinances is to impose conditions on our special use permits. So, yes, it was recommended

01:58:24.779 --> 01:58:31.100
for approval, but with the condition that a landscaping screen and plan approved by staff

01:58:31.100 --> 01:58:37.220
would be part of that approval. So on November 14th, the Planning Commission also recommended

01:58:37.220 --> 01:58:46.319
approval by a vote of six yeas, one nay, and zero abstentions.

01:58:46.319 --> 01:58:50.199
Is there a motion to move this forward? So moved.

01:58:50.199 --> 01:58:57.279
Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker. Discussion on this

01:58:57.279 --> 01:59:04.960
ordinance. Alderman Monroe. Thank you Madam Mayor. So Mr. Duckman, is this on the

01:59:04.960 --> 01:59:11.600
south side of the property? Basically right next to, I'm just looking at the

01:59:11.600 --> 01:59:19.920
streets and I apologize. Not Locust, but the one just looks like an old street.

01:59:19.920 --> 01:59:28.699
Deadend. All right can you if you look over to the screen on this site plan

01:59:28.699 --> 01:59:36.300
this would be Locust. Okay. Right here and then here's the cabinet and this V is an

01:59:36.300 --> 01:59:39.100
underground vault.

01:59:39.100 --> 01:59:40.479
is an underground vault and you can kind of see that but this is the this is the

01:59:40.479 --> 01:59:57.590
cabinet here. Any other discussion on with Stacy? Yes, I have received phone calls

01:59:57.590 --> 02:00:07.109
from my constituents pertaining to this matter and I have been informed that

02:00:07.109 --> 02:00:21.470
this business was asked or told not to do it and they did it anyway that is I

02:00:21.470 --> 02:00:27.210
would say that's half true they originally proposed putting up a larger

02:00:27.210 --> 02:00:31.550
structure that was around 500 square feet an actual physical it looked like

02:00:31.550 --> 02:00:36.869
a small house or garage and they also wanted to use a road and they wanted a

02:00:36.869 --> 02:01:06.869
Gait. So they had a much larger footprint that was going to go there. And then we after discussions with the organization, they scrapped that idea and then showed up and thought that they had the right to just put this up a much smaller footprint. So they were told, you can't do that. And if even you know, they were told after the fact. So the part that is true is that they did put this up without permission, they were told no, on a much

02:01:06.869 --> 02:01:07.869
and John.

02:01:07.869 --> 02:01:09.609
I think it's a much larger scale development, I would call it.

02:01:09.609 --> 02:01:12.449
They came in with a much bigger footprint.

02:01:12.449 --> 02:01:16.470
They wanted, I think, a 10-foot barbed-wire fence around it.

02:01:16.470 --> 02:01:20.789
And it was a much, much more intense project that they were told no.

02:01:20.789 --> 02:01:21.789
Okay.

02:01:21.789 --> 02:01:24.489
So what is the reality in this?

02:01:24.489 --> 02:01:26.750
Do we let them keep it or do they tear it down?

02:01:26.750 --> 02:01:28.930
I mean, that's the decision today, right?

02:01:28.930 --> 02:01:35.689
I mean, certainly if the vote was no, and essentially this is important for their telecommunication

02:01:35.689 --> 02:01:36.689
Fowler.

02:01:36.689 --> 02:01:40.149
If the vote is no, then we would be moved forward.

02:01:40.149 --> 02:01:45.210
We'd work with Attorney Zito on some sort of, you know, corrective action to, you know,

02:01:45.210 --> 02:01:46.970
have them remove the cabinet.

02:01:46.970 --> 02:01:47.970
But there's no vote tonight.

02:01:47.970 --> 02:01:48.970
This is first reading.

02:01:48.970 --> 02:01:49.970
Okay.

02:01:49.970 --> 02:01:50.970
Right.

02:01:50.970 --> 02:01:53.310
Can they be fined?

02:01:53.310 --> 02:01:55.970
Not at this point, no.

02:01:55.970 --> 02:02:01.050
Because they've gone into, they've started the process for compliance.

02:02:01.050 --> 02:02:05.649
They were given a violation notice and they said you have to apply for a special use permit

02:02:05.649 --> 02:02:14.689
and they did so. So right now they're in the process of following the rules of the following our rules and regulations.

02:02:14.689 --> 02:02:16.689
Anyone else?

02:02:16.689 --> 02:02:25.449
So if if this is voted down in two weeks, essentially at that point, they would have to remove.

02:02:25.449 --> 02:02:32.850
Is that correct? You are you are correct. And if that was the case, then city staff would be working with Attorney Zito on it

02:02:32.850 --> 02:02:40.590
on the process for how to have them forcibly remove that cabinet.

02:02:40.590 --> 02:02:41.590
Anyone else?

02:02:41.590 --> 02:02:48.350
And we will move on to item number 17, which is the first reading of ordinance 2024-80.

02:02:48.350 --> 02:02:51.430
Could you please read this?

02:02:51.430 --> 02:02:55.789
Ordinance amending Chapter 14 of the codified ordinances requiring a contractor license

02:02:55.789 --> 02:03:00.989
for contractors who perform landscaping or lawn care, seal colding, and snow plowing.

02:03:00.989 --> 02:03:02.310
Mayor, Chair Boyer.

02:03:02.310 --> 02:03:04.750
Thank you, Your Honor.

02:03:04.750 --> 02:03:10.029
staff is bringing this before the council to look at the possibility of making a

02:03:10.029 --> 02:03:15.789
license for landscaper, snow removal, and seal coat companies. We have a number of

02:03:15.789 --> 02:03:20.390
different contractors out there. They're all doing different things. We really

02:03:20.390 --> 02:03:24.750
don't have an idea who they are and we'd like a little bit better visibility on

02:03:24.750 --> 02:03:31.789
that through the licensing process. So staff is proposing to council

02:03:31.789 --> 02:03:37.470
that we amend the ordinance to add those three categories like I said like was

02:03:37.470 --> 02:03:45.470
mentioned before the landscape seal coating and also snow plowers and I will

02:03:45.470 --> 02:03:49.050
mention in the in the wintertime there's a challenge we have folks all over the

02:03:49.050 --> 02:03:53.949
city that go and they plow parking lots commercially and otherwise they really

02:03:53.949 --> 02:03:58.350
don't have an idea what it is our ordinances say they go and push snow out

02:03:58.350 --> 02:03:59.350
Settlers.

02:03:59.350 --> 02:04:04.550
They create more work for our staff when some of the commercial customers could just simply

02:04:04.550 --> 02:04:08.189
they could just push it into the parking lot and pile it up over the course of the year.

02:04:08.189 --> 02:04:11.029
So there is some need for this.

02:04:11.029 --> 02:04:15.550
However, it is council's discretion as to whether to move this forward or not.

02:04:15.550 --> 02:04:19.109
So is there a motion to move forward?

02:04:19.109 --> 02:04:25.380
So move.

02:04:25.380 --> 02:04:28.279
Motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

02:04:28.279 --> 02:04:29.279
Discussion?

02:04:29.279 --> 02:04:30.279
Yes, I have.

02:04:30.279 --> 02:04:31.279
Alderman Sellers?

02:04:31.279 --> 02:04:37.279
Alderman, Sellers? Yes, I would like to also add haulers, you know, people that do

02:04:37.279 --> 02:04:42.399
dumping and hauling. I think that that's a really good one that we should add on

02:04:42.399 --> 02:04:54.020
that list also. Just as a point of order, we do license them. Oh, okay. However, I don't have any.

02:04:54.020 --> 02:05:00.720
The problem is getting them in to get the license, so. Alderman Monroe? Thank you, Madam

02:05:00.720 --> 02:05:07.439
Mayer. So so I can understand this better is that just one license they would need

02:05:07.439 --> 02:05:14.109
for if they did all of these or would they need one separate for each or

02:05:14.109 --> 02:05:20.710
whoever? They're gonna need a license this is a new license they're gonna need a

02:05:20.710 --> 02:05:25.069
different license they can't do so right now if they receive a general contractors

02:05:25.069 --> 02:05:30.109
license or an electrician's license they're they're going to need to now do

02:05:30.109 --> 02:05:54.810
and

02:05:54.810 --> 02:06:00.449
Settles, as if you're a general contractor, you have to show general liability insurance

02:06:00.449 --> 02:06:03.569
and that's essentially your main step, if that makes sense.

02:06:03.569 --> 02:06:07.250
So this is a different, so if you're a general contractor, which we have some that also do

02:06:07.250 --> 02:06:12.210
snow plowing, they're going to have to get this additional license and pay for it and

02:06:12.210 --> 02:06:14.210
follow the additional requirements.

02:06:14.210 --> 02:06:23.819
Alderman Sanders?

02:06:23.819 --> 02:06:28.380
Yeah, I just want to ask a simple question.

02:06:28.380 --> 02:06:31.819
These are two private entities, am I correct?

02:06:31.819 --> 02:06:36.979
on the snow plowing and seal coatings

02:06:36.979 --> 02:06:38.100
and things of that nature.

02:06:38.100 --> 02:06:40.180
Yes, yes, you are correct.

02:06:40.180 --> 02:06:43.739
And everyone should have a permit or license

02:06:43.739 --> 02:06:48.300
to register to do these types of jobs to homeowners

02:06:48.300 --> 02:06:51.380
or any kind of businesses.

02:06:51.380 --> 02:06:52.779
You don't need a license.

02:06:52.779 --> 02:06:56.500
Not to shovel or plow someone's driveway, no.

02:06:56.500 --> 02:06:59.699
Or mow someone's grass.

02:06:59.699 --> 02:07:00.699
and Stacey.

02:07:00.699 --> 02:07:01.699
Okay.

02:07:01.699 --> 02:07:08.899
Let's see if anybody else has another input before you go on to the second.

02:07:08.899 --> 02:07:11.460
Is there anyone for the first time?

02:07:11.460 --> 02:07:17.329
Well, then, Alderman Sanders for your second.

02:07:17.329 --> 02:07:20.060
What?

02:07:20.060 --> 02:07:21.060
Oh, no, you haven't.

02:07:21.060 --> 02:07:23.420
I marked the wrong one.

02:07:23.420 --> 02:07:24.420
My apologies.

02:07:24.420 --> 02:07:25.420
Alderman Stacey.

02:07:25.420 --> 02:07:27.859
Okay.

02:07:27.859 --> 02:07:30.859
I'm hearing two different things.

02:07:30.859 --> 02:07:47.079
So if the neighbor guy wants to mow my grass, he has to have some type of license or general

02:07:47.079 --> 02:07:50.600
something to mow grass?

02:07:50.600 --> 02:07:54.319
That is my understanding of this ordinance that a lawn, that would fall under a lawn care

02:07:54.319 --> 02:07:57.159
company and they would have to register.

02:07:57.159 --> 02:07:58.159
That's my understanding.

02:07:58.159 --> 02:08:04.960
Now, I want to take a step back here and state that what brought this up was not community

02:08:04.960 --> 02:08:05.960
and economic development.

02:08:05.960 --> 02:08:09.520
What brought this up was our public works department is having issues with and concerns

02:08:09.520 --> 02:08:16.279
with contractors parking their lawn care equipment, parking their snow removal trucks, which are

02:08:16.279 --> 02:08:17.760
basically plow trucks.

02:08:17.760 --> 02:08:23.840
These are businesses that are not registering because they do not need a permit to do so.

02:08:23.840 --> 02:08:25.520
You pointed this point out.

02:08:25.520 --> 02:08:29.159
You've made that point correctly that if they're cutting your grass, if they're plowing the

02:08:29.159 --> 02:08:32.460
snow off your driveway, they do not need a permit for that.

02:08:32.460 --> 02:08:37.579
But what's happening is some of these businesses are throwing the snow into the street or they're

02:08:37.579 --> 02:08:43.079
not performing their work correctly or they're parking their vehicles on curbs, damaging

02:08:43.079 --> 02:08:44.760
it and driving away.

02:08:44.760 --> 02:08:51.960
And so I just want to say my department has truly just stepped in here to be saying that,

02:08:51.960 --> 02:08:55.640
OK, we have a registered contractor database.

02:08:55.640 --> 02:08:57.500
Will you help us along with this?"

02:08:57.500 --> 02:08:59.140
And that's kind of where I'm at here.

02:08:59.140 --> 02:09:01.079
So I'm answering these questions as they come,

02:09:01.079 --> 02:09:02.680
but this essentially is an initiative

02:09:02.680 --> 02:09:06.420
driven by a concern from our Public Works Department.

02:09:06.420 --> 02:09:10.340
But you're saying this is for lawn care companies.

02:09:10.340 --> 02:09:13.520
Yes, that's one company that would have to register.

02:09:13.520 --> 02:09:14.440
Manager Boyer?

02:09:14.440 --> 02:09:17.159
I'd like to clarify, I think, that if they have a tax ID

02:09:17.159 --> 02:09:20.079
number that would qualify them as a company.

02:09:20.079 --> 02:09:21.119
If they have a what?

02:09:21.119 --> 02:09:22.699
if they have a tax ID number,

02:09:22.699 --> 02:09:24.840
if they're registered as a business.

02:09:26.279 --> 02:09:27.119
Attorney Cito.

02:09:28.859 --> 02:09:31.500
So under the definition of a lawn care professional

02:09:31.500 --> 02:09:33.440
or even for a steel coating professional

02:09:33.440 --> 02:09:36.039
and a snow plowing professional, it talks about.

02:09:36.039 --> 02:09:38.439
Professional. It talks about a person who employs one or more individuals for the

02:09:38.439 --> 02:09:42.399
purpose of providing landscape maintenance or employs one or more

02:09:42.399 --> 02:09:47.079
individuals for the purpose of providing seal coating services there. So I think

02:09:47.079 --> 02:09:51.920
as written right now, they're looking at someone who's running this operation as

02:09:51.920 --> 02:09:56.119
a business, right? They have at least one or more employees that are going to go

02:09:56.119 --> 02:10:00.720
out and do this. So I think who's exempted from this is if your neighbor

02:10:00.720 --> 02:10:06.199
just happens by himself to say hey or the neighborhood kid 13 year old kid is just

02:10:06.199 --> 02:10:11.000
going around saying hey can I mow your lawn for for $30 and it's just him

02:10:11.000 --> 02:10:14.000
pushing his you know family's lawnmower and going around to the neighbors I

02:10:14.000 --> 02:10:20.800
don't think that's what this is meant to apply to there so. So this was a

02:10:20.800 --> 02:10:27.600
request by the superintendent of Public Works and Wayne touched on it but it's

02:10:27.600 --> 02:10:37.260
It's really due to a lot of Public Works time that is chasing these particular people around.

02:10:37.260 --> 02:10:39.359
What ends up happening, snow plowing.

02:10:39.359 --> 02:10:43.840
We have somebody that goes out for profit to plow snow, and then we end up with ancillary

02:10:43.840 --> 02:10:48.039
damages at the house two doors down where they push the snow, rip the yard up, and then

02:10:48.039 --> 02:10:51.479
Public Works is asked to go fix those yards.

02:10:51.479 --> 02:10:56.399
We have no way of monitoring who's plowing where or what, so this is just kind of a record

02:10:56.399 --> 02:10:59.399
and I have a record keeping thing to say that if Wayne's

02:10:59.399 --> 02:11:02.399
plow business messes up the yard next door Wayne's business

02:11:02.399 --> 02:11:05.399
has to clean it up or if Michelle's lawn

02:11:05.399 --> 02:11:08.399
care throws grass out in the street

02:11:08.399 --> 02:11:11.399
they've got to clean it up and right now we have no record

02:11:11.399 --> 02:11:14.399
keeping for that half and it happens more than you know

02:11:14.399 --> 02:11:17.399
or they damage curb or sidewalk

02:11:17.399 --> 02:11:20.399
or something like that in the course of their business and it falls back

02:11:20.399 --> 02:11:23.399
on the city to fix and repair. So

02:11:23.399 --> 02:11:34.079
That is really the issue here. And so we're just trying to get a record keeping of who's working where, knowing that we have responsible people working in the community and doing good work.

02:11:34.720 --> 02:11:35.279
Manager Boyer.

02:11:35.800 --> 02:11:44.680
Just to add to what Darren said also, you know, you don't think of grass clippings in the right of way as being dangerous. But if you have grass clippings spread out at an intersection

02:11:44.680 --> 02:11:49.720
and a motorcycle comes to a stop I mean that can cause somebody to lose their

02:11:49.720 --> 02:11:53.680
bike right there in the intersection so I just wanted to create the mention that

02:11:53.680 --> 02:11:58.520
safety concern as well okay so I get the whole accountability thing but what I

02:11:58.520 --> 02:12:02.739
don't understand is I mean we have lots of general contractors that are busy all

02:12:02.739 --> 02:12:05.840
summer long but in the wintertime they want to do snow plowing so now we want to

02:12:05.840 --> 02:12:08.239
we want to hit them again with a different license why can't it just come

02:12:08.239 --> 02:12:12.520
under the same license as long as they declare it's well there's different

02:12:12.520 --> 02:12:42.520
We also currently do it so that let's say you're going to be your general contractor if you go to do plumbing work you have to get a separate plumbing license pay for that pass that test prove that you're doing that work if you're going to do a electricians you're going to do electrical work you have to get electrical license pay for that so that we currently have that in place and also just I just also want to add that this license this ordinance is more restrictive than it's not it's just going to be as simple as saying okay we're going to declare

02:12:42.520 --> 02:12:47.680
There's quite a bit of staff time proving that there's insurance for all these vehicles, collecting all that data.

02:12:47.680 --> 02:12:51.920
There's extra requirements for this particular.

02:12:51.920 --> 02:13:00.079
So you're actually wanting more data from someone that's mowing your grass versus someone that's building your house?

02:13:00.079 --> 02:13:06.039
I don't. That's what's being proposed by our superintendent of public works. Yes.

02:13:06.039 --> 02:13:09.880
OK. I'm not sure.

02:13:09.880 --> 02:13:12.640
Let's see, I think Alderman Parker, you haven't had a chance to speak once yet.

02:13:12.640 --> 02:13:18.520
No, I'd appreciate Aaron cleaning it up, because I'm getting too dang old to mow my lawn and

02:13:18.520 --> 02:13:22.239
so my grandkids or their friends come over and mow my lawn.

02:13:22.239 --> 02:13:23.960
They don't have to have no permit.

02:13:23.960 --> 02:13:24.960
No.

02:13:24.960 --> 02:13:25.960
All right.

02:13:25.960 --> 02:13:26.960
I appreciate that.

02:13:26.960 --> 02:13:27.960
Thank you.

02:13:27.960 --> 02:13:31.420
Anyone else that hasn't spoken once yet?

02:13:31.420 --> 02:13:34.060
And so I'll open it up for the second time.

02:13:34.060 --> 02:13:35.060
Alderman Monroe.

02:13:35.060 --> 02:13:37.020
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

02:13:37.020 --> 02:13:43.220
I can tell you in my neighborhood, the folks that do the plowing, that do the leaf clean-up, the lawn mowing,

02:13:43.220 --> 02:13:46.020
they're not the ones damaging the property, it's the city workers.

02:13:46.020 --> 02:13:52.300
We've actually come to the city where copious amounts of salt was thrown on people's yards,

02:13:52.300 --> 02:13:57.659
killing their grass, killing the edges of the road, plowing them up,

02:13:57.659 --> 02:14:03.659
and those that are doing the plowing or the snow blowing or such, they're not a problem.

02:14:03.659 --> 02:14:10.460
and I've got two neighbors that have complained a significant amount over the

02:14:10.460 --> 02:14:14.119
last few years and none of the work was done to repair their grass to repair the

02:14:14.119 --> 02:14:20.380
soil at the edge of the road and you know this really seems onerous to me

02:14:20.380 --> 02:14:25.340
that we're gonna go out and say okay well you've got to supply all of this

02:14:25.340 --> 02:14:29.300
information and your business falls under the same insurance you're not

02:14:29.300 --> 02:14:33.220
gonna have insurance for plowing insurance for snow for snow removal or

02:14:33.220 --> 02:14:35.220
and John.

02:14:36.500 --> 02:14:38.500
So, we have a lot of folks that are doing that type of work.

02:14:39.739 --> 02:14:41.739
We have a lot of folks that are doing that type of work.

02:14:42.840 --> 02:14:44.840
We have a lot of folks that are doing that type of work versus

02:14:45.960 --> 02:14:47.960
grass cleanup versus leaf cleanup versus all of those things.

02:14:49.760 --> 02:14:51.760
And, you know, I think as long as they have annual insurance,

02:14:52.859 --> 02:14:54.859
it should be one license, allows them to go through.

02:14:56.079 --> 02:14:58.079
Certainly most of the folks that are doing that type of work are

02:14:59.180 --> 02:15:01.180
not making the same amount of money as a plumber or an

02:15:01.180 --> 02:15:02.180
Miller.

02:15:02.180 --> 02:15:07.220
But, you know, we can call it a license, we can call it a fee, we can call it a tax.

02:15:07.220 --> 02:15:08.560
It's all the same thing.

02:15:08.560 --> 02:15:12.899
We've got to clean this up a little bit and take care of our businesses because a lot

02:15:12.899 --> 02:15:15.920
of those folks are taking care.

02:15:15.920 --> 02:15:21.840
My ward especially has a large amount of seniors living there who get their lawns done.

02:15:21.840 --> 02:15:28.960
And I'd hate to see this, their lawn cleanup go up 10, 15 bucks a time based on them having

02:15:28.960 --> 02:15:29.960
Boyer.

02:15:29.960 --> 02:15:31.239
I don't want to keep applying for licenses and such.

02:15:31.239 --> 02:15:33.840
It just doesn't make sense to me.

02:15:33.840 --> 02:15:35.079
Manager Boyer?

02:15:35.079 --> 02:15:39.680
Just to comment on that and address, I personally do not have any issue with combining them

02:15:39.680 --> 02:15:42.119
under one license.

02:15:42.119 --> 02:15:48.199
But I do want to mention that our plow truck drivers are doing the very best job they can.

02:15:48.199 --> 02:15:52.640
As a matter of fact, when you have a cul-de-sac, no curbs, you have situations where you've

02:15:52.640 --> 02:15:57.640
got a 10-ton truck or a 10-yard truck with a plow on the front, it makes it very challenging.

02:15:57.640 --> 02:16:03.439
and I believe our snow plow drivers are really fantastic at what they do, there's always

02:16:03.439 --> 02:16:07.000
room for improvement of course, but there is going to be a few times you scalp a yard

02:16:07.000 --> 02:16:15.470
off but I'm quite fine with revisiting this and making it under one license, thank you.

02:16:15.470 --> 02:16:16.470
Any further discussion?

02:16:16.470 --> 02:16:27.560
Okay, then we'll move on to item number 18 which is the adoption of a resolution 2024-120.

02:16:27.560 --> 02:16:32.000
Resolution in support of the Bird City, Illinois initiative.

02:16:32.000 --> 02:16:43.000
Thank you, your honor. The mayor city staff has been working with the Northern Illinois Audubon Society on renewing the Bird City Illinois recognition. It was first given to the city in 2022.

02:16:43.000 --> 02:16:48.000
The city of Freeport is looking to retain its recognition as Bird City Illinois community.

02:16:48.000 --> 02:16:59.000
Thanks to its unique initiatives to highlight and save wildlife in a region, according to the Northwest Illinois Audubon Society, Freeport fulfills the following, which are necessary for recognition.

02:16:59.000 --> 02:17:05.399
for recognition. So it provides sufficient bird habitat, promotes pollinator health, is recognized

02:17:05.399 --> 02:17:11.799
as a Tree City USA participant, maintains a public demonstration of gardens to be benefited by birds

02:17:11.799 --> 02:17:17.719
and wildlife and ecosystems, maintains a public golf course that benefits birds, works to mitigate

02:17:17.719 --> 02:17:23.639
water pollution through cleanup events, implements actions to reduce pollution, utilizes integrated

02:17:23.639 --> 02:17:29.040
Pest Management and Natural Pest Control, celebrates World Migratory Bird Day and hosts

02:17:29.040 --> 02:17:37.200
an annual bird day event, increases awareness of birds and their habitats, educates all

02:17:37.200 --> 02:17:42.139
ages on birds and conservation related programs and works with traditionally underserved communities

02:17:42.139 --> 02:17:48.479
to increase access to environmental education and as well as reduces energy use and carbon

02:17:48.479 --> 02:17:50.959
emissions and promotes green transportation.

02:17:50.959 --> 02:17:55.799
So, staff recommends the city adopt the resolution for Bird City, USA.

02:17:55.799 --> 02:17:57.280
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:17:57.280 --> 02:17:58.280
So moved.

02:17:58.280 --> 02:17:59.280
Second.

02:17:59.280 --> 02:18:04.479
The motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Shadle, discussion?

02:18:04.479 --> 02:18:05.479
Alderman Stacy?

02:18:05.479 --> 02:18:06.479
Yes.

02:18:06.479 --> 02:18:17.920
so I'm hearing like you're not supposed to because of the wildlife like release

02:18:17.920 --> 02:18:30.940
balloons anymore so is that like pertaining to this and if I don't think

02:18:30.940 --> 02:18:36.620
this pertains to it at all but it you are accurate I mean could I do with this

02:18:36.620 --> 02:18:46.260
Find if I went and let go 12 balloons in honor of something or someone?

02:18:46.260 --> 02:18:47.260
Manager Boyer?

02:18:47.260 --> 02:18:50.420
I believe 12 balloons is okay.

02:18:50.420 --> 02:18:55.219
As a matter of fact, we had some concern expressed at one of the events that we're planning about

02:18:55.219 --> 02:18:59.180
a balloon release and there is something about the numbers.

02:18:59.180 --> 02:19:03.959
So as long as the numbers stay within a certain range, I believe they don't like it per se,

02:19:03.959 --> 02:19:07.239
they're not against it but they don't like to see those massive balloon

02:19:07.239 --> 02:19:11.959
releases so but yeah this that's not to do with this or with this resolution

02:19:11.959 --> 02:19:19.000
well I just thought I didn't know if it's something affect the birds or if

02:19:19.000 --> 02:19:28.280
there's no other discussion and clerk please take the role Stacy aye Shadle

02:19:28.280 --> 02:19:35.520
Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Monroe.

02:19:35.520 --> 02:19:41.600
Monroe? No. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted seven to one. Item number 19

02:19:41.600 --> 02:19:47.520
is the adoption of resolution 2024-121. Resolution ratifying emergency backflow

02:19:47.520 --> 02:19:51.760
preventer repairs to city's wastewater treatment plant dewatering system by

02:19:51.760 --> 02:19:57.920
Nelson Carlson mechanical contractors. Thank you your honor. Earlier this year

02:19:57.920 --> 02:20:04.319
Miller, the staff of the wastewater treatment plant pointed to a problem with the backflow

02:20:04.319 --> 02:20:05.319
preventer.

02:20:05.319 --> 02:20:09.879
It was a time-critical issue and needed to be replaced, so we move forward with the repair

02:20:09.879 --> 02:20:17.319
and staff is asking council to ratify the payment of $11,309 for the emergency replacement

02:20:17.319 --> 02:20:21.079
of the sewer, the check valve.

02:20:21.079 --> 02:20:22.079
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:20:22.079 --> 02:20:23.079
So moved.

02:20:23.079 --> 02:20:24.079
Second.

02:20:24.079 --> 02:20:30.079
Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion, Alderman Sanders.

02:20:30.079 --> 02:20:48.079
Uh, yeah, uh, Manager Boyer, uh, with this backflow preventer, does that have anything to do with the river, the Pecatonica River backflowing, uh, flowing into the plan itself, within the plan itself?

02:20:48.079 --> 02:20:54.840
So where are these areas that you're talking about, fires, repairs, to backflow?

02:20:54.840 --> 02:20:58.360
Anything to do along with the river backflow?

02:20:58.360 --> 02:20:59.959
Is that within the city itself?

02:21:01.479 --> 02:21:02.120
And as you're aware?

02:21:02.120 --> 02:21:03.559
As I understand, it's in the plant.

02:21:03.559 --> 02:21:09.760
It's where you have the freshwater line going to an operation inside the plant.

02:21:09.760 --> 02:21:11.159
And the backflow preventer fails.

02:21:11.159 --> 02:21:14.559
And if it does, then it has a potential cross-contamination.

02:21:14.559 --> 02:21:15.680
Okay, I see where you're at.

02:21:15.680 --> 02:21:24.670
Alderman Monroe. Thank you Madam Mayor. When was the work done? This repair was done in June.

02:21:25.950 --> 02:21:35.680
Why did we wait five months, six months to come back to council? We just got the invoice.

02:21:37.940 --> 02:21:44.340
We spent the money in June. The parts had to be ordered. It was custom made so it took some time

02:21:44.340 --> 02:21:51.620
to get but we just we just received the invoice last week from Nelson let's see if somebody

02:21:51.620 --> 02:22:02.889
else has a question first if not on the mineral thank you madam mayor you know I I get that

02:22:02.889 --> 02:22:08.969
it takes time to get the parts in but waiting six months to to come back to counsel you had

02:22:08.969 --> 02:22:16.049
a purchase order in June we move forward with the spending of that money it was never appropriated

02:22:16.049 --> 02:22:23.329
for use. I guess my question is, why did we wait six months?

02:22:24.370 --> 02:22:24.770
Go ahead.

02:22:26.809 --> 02:22:30.450
The money for this comes out of the sewer repair fees, right,

02:22:30.450 --> 02:22:33.889
that we typically have budgeted for. And the reason we didn't

02:22:33.889 --> 02:22:36.729
come back to it is it was an emergency. And we usually don't

02:22:36.729 --> 02:22:40.250
present these until we get the invoice for it. The sludge

02:22:40.250 --> 02:22:43.209
presses that we operate five days a week down at the plant

02:22:43.209 --> 02:22:49.290
can not run without this backflow device in in parallel with them because it protects the

02:22:49.290 --> 02:22:56.409
contamination of the water like Rob said so it became emergent at the time that we needed to order

02:22:56.409 --> 02:23:03.290
it Nelson Carlson is a custom fabricator so they got the parts in custom fabricated it and installed

02:23:03.290 --> 02:23:10.170
it and I can't explain that you know Nelson's billing cycles but yes this is is way behind a

02:23:10.170 --> 02:23:15.129
the typical bill, but we definitely needed it.

02:23:15.129 --> 02:23:18.729
Like I said, the sludge presses that press

02:23:18.729 --> 02:23:22.809
all of our digested sewer will not work

02:23:22.809 --> 02:23:24.049
without this backflow preventer,

02:23:24.049 --> 02:23:26.530
which would put us in a significant bind.

02:23:28.049 --> 02:23:29.629
Alderman Stacey.

02:23:29.629 --> 02:23:34.629
When did the parts come in and when was the work completed?

02:23:40.170 --> 02:23:46.010
from my best recollection the parts were ordered on the PO in June I think they

02:23:46.010 --> 02:23:49.370
took four weeks to get the parts in because we had to get custom flanges

02:23:49.370 --> 02:23:56.489
built and added to the this a large rpz and we went with stainless because the

02:23:56.489 --> 02:24:00.370
original one wasn't stainless and it needs to be corrosion resistance

02:24:00.370 --> 02:24:07.770
because the sludge process of okay call it patty caking the sludge is very

02:24:07.770 --> 02:24:14.010
and the room that this the environment that this room contains is a very acidic

02:24:14.010 --> 02:24:18.729
and we've had to replace just about every component within this building over the

02:24:18.729 --> 02:24:24.090
course of the last 15 years due to the acidic environment so I want to say the

02:24:24.090 --> 02:24:29.930
parts came in and probably mid-July it was probably installed about the 1st of

02:24:29.930 --> 02:24:39.399
August and we just got the bill last week and you said normally it comes out

02:24:39.399 --> 02:24:45.399
There's an account in the sewer budget for repairs at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

02:24:45.399 --> 02:24:49.399
So they just come out the sewer budget account?

02:24:49.399 --> 02:24:51.399
Yes, the maintenance.

02:24:51.399 --> 02:24:57.899
There's no further discussion? Alderman Monroe?

02:24:57.899 --> 02:25:10.899
Actually, I do have a question. So this chrome in that acidic environment, I remember studying this back in my days as a meteorologist, atmospheric scientist.

02:25:10.899 --> 02:25:16.340
is there any concern that chromic acid will form in that environment and be

02:25:16.340 --> 02:25:25.940
released? No, it's stainless. The black fold device that was put in was stainless. Okay.

02:25:25.940 --> 02:25:38.579
Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? It's done. Yeah, you have to approve the bill,

02:25:38.579 --> 02:26:10.340
the invoice. Yes. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item number 20 is the adoption of resolution 2024-122. Could you please read this? Resolution ratifying emergency HVAC repairs at City Hall by Lesher Heating and Air Conditioning. Manager Boyer. Council we had a similar situation

02:26:10.340 --> 02:26:15.579
here at City Hall, the main council chambers, air conditioning units failed I

02:26:15.579 --> 02:26:20.680
believe toward the end of September to get us through the rest of the summer. We

02:26:20.680 --> 02:26:25.379
approved an emergency repair of the air conditioning units, the total cost being

02:26:25.379 --> 02:26:34.120
$10,425 and staff asks council to ratify that that invoice. Is there a motion to

02:26:34.120 --> 02:26:39.500
adopt? So move. Second. Motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman

02:26:39.500 --> 02:26:46.540
Shadle Discussion. You said it was how much? I'm sorry.

02:26:46.540 --> 02:27:02.079
Alderman Stacey, it's in your packet, $10,425. And this money has come or will come from?

02:27:02.079 --> 02:27:07.760
It'll come from building maintenance for City Hall PD. We combine those under one budget

02:27:07.760 --> 02:27:26.569
Are we over budget, under budget in that line item from last year's budget, approved budget?

02:27:26.569 --> 02:28:18.309
Line item 101, 142, 6165, contracted equipment repair and maintenance, still has 7,000 left

02:28:18.309 --> 02:28:24.049
in that line item before this bill is run.

02:28:24.049 --> 02:28:33.610
So we will be shy in that line.

02:28:33.610 --> 02:28:34.610
Follow up?

02:28:34.610 --> 02:28:36.129
Go ahead.

02:28:36.129 --> 02:28:38.729
So you're saying there will be like $3,000?

02:28:38.729 --> 02:28:39.729
Sure.

02:28:39.729 --> 02:28:40.729
Correct.

02:28:40.729 --> 02:28:41.729
Yeah.

02:28:41.729 --> 02:28:42.729
Okay.

02:28:42.729 --> 02:28:48.430
Correct.

02:28:48.430 --> 02:28:49.430
Alderman Monroe.

02:28:49.430 --> 02:28:50.430
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

02:28:50.430 --> 02:28:53.750
So basically what you're saying, it doesn't matter what we approve in a budget.

02:28:53.750 --> 02:28:56.350
We're just going to spend the money and then ask for forgiveness later.

02:28:56.350 --> 02:28:58.350
Is that how this works?

02:28:58.350 --> 02:29:05.870
Manager Boyer? As you know budget is a planning document and you have to make

02:29:05.870 --> 02:29:11.430
adjustments as you go along on the reality that happens so when this thing

02:29:11.430 --> 02:29:16.930
failed I believe it failed within a week of a large council meeting so we had the

02:29:16.930 --> 02:29:21.030
repair done so that we could not be sitting in 85 degree weather with 100%

02:29:21.030 --> 02:29:31.979
Humanity in here. Good excuse. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy.

02:29:31.979 --> 02:29:44.809
Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Monroe, Simmons, and Parker. The resolution is

02:29:44.809 --> 02:29:51.350
adopted seven to one. Item number 21 is the adoption of resolution 2024 123.

02:29:51.350 --> 02:29:54.870
Could you please read this? Resolution approving agreement with Richard L.

02:29:54.870 --> 02:29:59.629
Johnson for architectural services at wall number 12. Manager Boyer. Thank you

02:29:59.629 --> 02:30:04.430
Your Honor, the City of Freeport is currently in design process of well number 12.

02:30:04.430 --> 02:30:09.290
That would be the last remaining well for us to get off of the old Brick Street plant

02:30:09.290 --> 02:30:13.309
and get us a contaminant-free water system.

02:30:13.309 --> 02:30:17.469
The facility design requires an architect for the building component system.

02:30:17.469 --> 02:30:23.149
Richard L. Johnson has been a strategic partner on the design team of well number 12 and also

02:30:23.149 --> 02:30:26.829
with our wastewater treatment plan upgrades at the City of Freeport.

02:30:26.829 --> 02:30:30.069
They are familiar with the state and the city building codes and standards.

02:30:30.069 --> 02:30:34.030
The City of Freeport, with the assistance of Fehr Graham, has received a commitment from

02:30:34.030 --> 02:30:41.790
the Illinois EPA and Congressman Eric Sorensen to fund $13.3 million of originally estimated

02:30:41.790 --> 02:30:43.909
$14 million of the project.

02:30:43.909 --> 02:30:48.510
The project must be bid before March 1, 2024, to receive the funding.

02:30:48.510 --> 02:30:53.389
Richard L. Johnson has presented a building architecture contract for $195,000 to perform

02:30:53.389 --> 02:30:59.149
from the plan, specifications, and plan coordination with our lead engineer for the overall project

02:30:59.149 --> 02:31:00.149
design.

02:31:00.149 --> 02:31:04.350
To ensure funding, they have committed to being complete and bid ready by the Illinois

02:31:04.350 --> 02:31:06.350
EPA's bid deadline.

02:31:06.350 --> 02:31:11.430
The city plans to fund this engineering through capital improvement funds until a time which

02:31:11.430 --> 02:31:14.229
we are reimbursed from the Illinois EPA.

02:31:14.229 --> 02:31:19.549
The architect's fees can be reimbursed when the loan project is funded through the EPA.

02:31:19.549 --> 02:31:26.229
So staff recommends the City Council approve the $195,000 contract with Richard L. Johnson

02:31:26.229 --> 02:31:27.629
so the project can move forward.

02:31:27.629 --> 02:31:29.469
Is there such a motion?

02:31:29.469 --> 02:31:30.469
So moved.

02:31:30.469 --> 02:31:31.469
Second.

02:31:31.469 --> 02:31:34.229
A motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

02:31:34.229 --> 02:31:37.309
Discussion.

02:31:37.309 --> 02:31:39.350
Alderman Shadle.

02:31:39.350 --> 02:31:44.950
Manager Boyer, you said that they were, Richard Johnson was involved with Well 12, I believe

02:31:44.950 --> 02:31:47.229
you meant Well 11, they drew that building?

02:31:47.229 --> 02:31:52.270
Yes, well, Levin and the wastewater treatment plant, new upgrades. Thank you.

02:31:52.270 --> 02:32:11.530
Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? No. Simmons? Oh, I am so sorry.

02:32:11.530 --> 02:32:23.110
Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted 6 to 1. Hey, item number 22 is the adaption

02:32:23.110 --> 02:32:29.149
of Resolution 2024-124. Could you please read this? Resolution approving agreement with

02:32:29.149 --> 02:32:34.670
Berners-Schober for mechanical engineering services at well number 12. Manager Boyer?

02:32:34.670 --> 02:32:38.629
Thank you, Your Honor. The city of Freeport, as mentioned before, is in the design process

02:32:38.629 --> 02:32:45.309
for well number 12. The design requires mechanical engineering for HVAC, electrical, supervisory

02:32:45.309 --> 02:32:50.309
control and data acquisition systems, and fire protection advanced systems. Berners-Schober

02:32:50.309 --> 02:32:56.850
Schover has been an engineer partner on the design team for well number 11 and wastewater

02:32:56.850 --> 02:33:01.350
treatment plant upgrades, and they're familiar with the city codes along with the EPA process

02:33:01.350 --> 02:33:02.350
standards.

02:33:02.350 --> 02:33:05.709
The city has received a commitment from the Illinois EPA and Eric Sorensen, as mentioned

02:33:05.709 --> 02:33:12.229
before, for $13.3 million, and the project must be bid let by March 1st.

02:33:12.229 --> 02:33:16.989
Bernard Schover has presented a mechanical engineering contract for 70,000 to perform

02:33:16.989 --> 02:33:21.389
mechanical systems design specification and plan coordination with our lead

02:33:21.389 --> 02:33:26.909
engineer that's Fehr Graham as part of the overall project. So to ensure the

02:33:26.909 --> 02:33:31.110
funding they have committed to being complete by and been ready by March 1st

02:33:31.110 --> 02:33:35.950
the EPA deadline and staff recommendation that City Council move

02:33:35.950 --> 02:33:41.510
forward with the $70,000 contract with a Berner-Schober so the project can move

02:33:41.510 --> 02:33:46.790
forward immediately. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. Motion made by

02:33:46.790 --> 02:33:54.950
Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion? Alderman? Yes, I heard

02:33:54.950 --> 02:34:03.190
Richard L. Johnson and I heard Fehr Graham. I'm sorry, Bernie, Berners, whoever,

02:34:03.190 --> 02:34:11.270
Berners, and Fehr Graham. So who is... Manager Boyer? So, Fehr Graham is the lead

02:34:11.270 --> 02:34:14.149
engineer. Richard L. Johnson is the architect and

02:34:14.149 --> 02:34:18.350
and Berner-Schober is the mechanical, mechanicals.

02:34:18.350 --> 02:34:20.829
So they will help with design of all the piping,

02:34:20.829 --> 02:34:22.389
electrical work, that type of thing.

02:34:22.389 --> 02:34:23.909
So you got the building itself

02:34:23.909 --> 02:34:26.750
and then you got all the mechanicals inside.

02:34:26.750 --> 02:34:31.750
Okay, so the building itself is costing the 70,000?

02:34:32.629 --> 02:34:33.950
No, that's incorrect.

02:34:33.950 --> 02:34:36.729
The design for the mechanicals

02:34:36.729 --> 02:34:38.750
within the building is 70,000.

02:34:42.510 --> 02:34:43.350
Attorney Zito.

02:34:46.870 --> 02:34:51.430
Right. So this is like, you know, so you got the architect who's going to design the building, right?

02:34:51.430 --> 02:34:58.590
There's a separate company or consultant that then designs all the heating and air conditioning, all the pipes and ducts and vents,

02:34:58.989 --> 02:35:04.350
electrical, you know, wiring that goes in there. There's a separate company that designs that, different than the architect.

02:35:04.829 --> 02:35:12.069
And then Fehr Graham is what? They're the engineer on the project. So you have multiple consultants. So we're going to have three different bills.

02:35:12.069 --> 02:35:13.069
Bales.

02:35:13.069 --> 02:35:14.069
Yes.

02:35:14.069 --> 02:35:15.069
Correct.

02:35:15.069 --> 02:35:16.069
Right.

02:35:16.069 --> 02:35:17.069
Because they're all different disciplines.

02:35:17.069 --> 02:35:18.829
Do you know what those other bills are?

02:35:18.829 --> 02:35:23.069
Oh, from the, like from the dollar amounts?

02:35:23.069 --> 02:35:24.069
Yeah.

02:35:24.069 --> 02:35:30.750
Well, so for the, for the design of the HVAC, the mechanicals, that's the $70,000 to draw

02:35:30.750 --> 02:35:36.829
it up, then 195 was for the architect, the previous resolution you guys adopted, and

02:35:36.829 --> 02:35:40.149
then I'll defer to Darren, as to what the engineering contract is.

02:35:40.149 --> 02:35:46.659
our contract was approved I believe sometime in 23

02:35:47.540 --> 02:35:51.340
and I think ours was 1.1 million for all the piping,

02:35:51.340 --> 02:35:54.659
all the ancillaries, all the coordination.

02:35:54.659 --> 02:35:55.780
It's a very big project

02:35:55.780 --> 02:36:00.139
when you're talking about $14 million worth of work.

02:36:00.139 --> 02:36:02.860
And you said in 2023 it was approved?

02:36:02.860 --> 02:36:05.479
Yeah, that was when we originally started chasing money

02:36:05.479 --> 02:36:07.500
for well 12 and well house 12.

02:36:16.010 --> 02:36:17.770
All the members are all right.

02:36:18.409 --> 02:36:23.049
Kudos to you, Ms. Stacy, because you're the first person that's asked the right question.

02:36:23.049 --> 02:36:29.770
Basically, if you do a search of Fehr Graham, Richard L. Johnson, Berners-Schober, they

02:36:29.770 --> 02:36:34.809
work on dozens, if not hundreds of projects together.

02:36:34.809 --> 02:36:36.690
So basically, they're one and the same.

02:36:36.690 --> 02:36:41.569
Even though they're separate companies, they bid together on multiple jobs.

02:36:41.569 --> 02:36:47.250
So the money's going essentially into the same space.

02:36:47.250 --> 02:36:52.909
and the question we should be asking is why are we not going out to bid for other entities

02:36:52.909 --> 02:36:56.190
as well who could also do the work.

02:36:56.190 --> 02:37:02.590
My concern about all of these projects, Adams, others, is we're not getting deep bids.

02:37:02.590 --> 02:37:04.350
We're not getting a lot of offers.

02:37:04.350 --> 02:37:11.129
So we are putting ourselves in a situation that we're no longer getting multiple entities

02:37:11.129 --> 02:37:13.430
coming into us with bids.

02:37:13.430 --> 02:37:18.270
So the price goes up because they're bidding against themselves.

02:37:18.270 --> 02:37:24.510
And these are questions we should ask about all of these bids that come through.

02:37:24.510 --> 02:37:28.909
There's more than one company that does architectural services.

02:37:28.909 --> 02:37:31.750
There's plenty of mechanical engineering services.

02:37:31.750 --> 02:37:37.870
And I know that being comfortable with each of these businesses is great.

02:37:37.870 --> 02:37:43.010
It's good for the City of Freeport to be able to work with those that know our business,

02:37:43.010 --> 02:37:46.510
Cronin, Paul, and I think the rest of us, we don't get the best dollar for our buck.

02:37:46.510 --> 02:37:49.049
We don't get the best, you know, who knows.

02:37:49.049 --> 02:37:51.690
Who knows what we would get if we had other people bidding on this.

02:37:51.690 --> 02:37:56.389
So, I think it's important to ask the question.

02:37:56.389 --> 02:37:58.969
Because on these adoptions of these resolutions,

02:37:58.969 --> 02:38:00.870
I've not seen where it's gone out to bid.

02:38:02.290 --> 02:38:04.770
And so, I'm concerned about that.

02:38:04.770 --> 02:38:07.270
And that's why I voted no on the previous one.

02:38:07.270 --> 02:38:10.049
And this one is the same thing.

02:38:10.049 --> 02:38:12.090
and it doesn't matter if you go to Green Bay

02:38:12.090 --> 02:38:16.809
or Polo, Illinois or Aurora or Madison or where you go,

02:38:16.809 --> 02:38:18.010
they're all working together.

02:38:18.010 --> 02:38:20.530
They're all getting paid the same.

02:38:20.530 --> 02:38:23.569
So that's the question I would pose to the city manager.

02:38:23.569 --> 02:38:26.049
Why are we not putting this out to bid?

02:38:26.049 --> 02:38:27.270
Manager Boyer?

02:38:27.270 --> 02:38:29.850
I would say best practices is not a bid.

02:38:31.610 --> 02:38:33.250
It's statement of qualification.

02:38:33.250 --> 02:38:34.250
What's your payment?

02:38:35.489 --> 02:38:37.010
Darren, did you own it?

02:38:37.010 --> 02:38:43.909
Well, Aaron can and should weigh in on this, but engineering proposals are not done by

02:38:43.909 --> 02:38:44.989
bid basis.

02:38:44.989 --> 02:38:46.430
That's not legal in Illinois.

02:38:46.430 --> 02:38:49.290
It's done by qualifications basis.

02:38:49.290 --> 02:38:51.149
You can't select an engineer off a bid.

02:38:51.149 --> 02:38:57.569
You can't even ask for a bid price on a project that I believe is state statute, if I'm correct.

02:38:57.569 --> 02:38:59.510
That's right.

02:38:59.510 --> 02:39:05.750
So for engineers, if you're going to look for a competitive process, it's called a QBS

02:39:05.750 --> 02:39:11.149
based system for engineers. That's just for engineers there. I believe then though for

02:39:11.149 --> 02:39:15.590
professional services like engineers, architects, lawyers, and stuff like that though, there's

02:39:15.590 --> 02:39:20.989
also provision of the code that says that you don't have to go out to any sort of a

02:39:20.989 --> 02:39:25.430
competitive bid or QBS process necessarily if you don't want to. It's again, it's your

02:39:25.430 --> 02:39:30.670
guys' choice. There, if you have a some sort of an established

02:39:31.120 --> 02:39:33.120
John.

02:39:34.680 --> 02:39:36.479
And we have a lot of people that are in the

02:39:36.479 --> 02:39:38.479
process of getting a

02:39:40.280 --> 02:39:42.280
some sort of an established relationship or desire because

02:39:42.379 --> 02:39:44.379
you've used them before so you like what they've done before

02:39:44.379 --> 02:39:46.379
you in the past and stuff like that.

02:39:47.520 --> 02:39:51.020
So you don't always have to go out to a quote or bid process

02:39:52.120 --> 02:39:54.120
for professional services. But again, it's up to you.

02:39:54.219 --> 02:39:56.219
If you want to, you can.

02:39:56.219 --> 02:39:58.219
and

02:39:59.219 --> 02:40:01.219
Mr.

02:40:02.219 --> 02:40:04.219
B.

02:40:05.219 --> 02:40:07.219
B.

02:40:08.219 --> 02:40:10.219
B.

02:40:11.219 --> 02:40:13.219
B.

02:40:14.219 --> 02:40:16.219
B.

02:40:17.219 --> 02:40:19.219
B.

02:40:20.219 --> 02:40:22.219
B.

02:40:23.219 --> 02:40:25.219
B.

02:40:26.219 --> 02:40:32.819
for you that have done absolutely excellent on your last two projects with no problems

02:40:32.819 --> 02:40:37.739
with the design of the building or anything else in the construction and how it works.

02:40:37.739 --> 02:40:45.219
You certainly, you know, like Mr. Zito said, you know, you can go out and do that.

02:40:45.219 --> 02:40:49.059
Professional services you don't need to do it on, and I'm not saying you shouldn't do

02:40:49.059 --> 02:40:50.059
it on.

02:40:50.059 --> 02:40:51.479
But I'm going to tell you what.

02:40:51.479 --> 02:40:58.159
and you've got a couple buildings and you've got 33, 34 million dollars that Fehr Graham

02:40:58.159 --> 02:41:04.239
has brought into us in grants and I was at a meeting this morning where they're going

02:41:04.239 --> 02:41:10.000
out for another million dollars for lining of sewers and stuff and can you tell me one

02:41:10.000 --> 02:41:15.840
project they've done for us lately that's bad? Can you tell me who else you'd go to

02:41:15.840 --> 02:41:16.840
for another project?

02:41:16.840 --> 02:41:24.639
I can. Now get your hand off of me first of all. I'm sorry I touched you. You have tonight

02:41:24.639 --> 02:41:31.680
knocked every department in this city. You finally did the public works department tonight.

02:41:31.680 --> 02:41:37.159
Two weeks ago or three weeks ago you did the fire department. Last week you did the police

02:41:37.159 --> 02:41:44.559
department. Why the hell if you aren't going to run again? This is off topic. This is off

02:41:44.559 --> 02:41:45.559
Fowler.

02:41:45.559 --> 02:41:46.559
So you're going to let this happen?

02:41:46.559 --> 02:41:47.559
No.

02:41:47.559 --> 02:41:48.559
You just did.

02:41:48.559 --> 02:41:49.559
No.

02:41:49.559 --> 02:41:50.559
I just said it's off topic.

02:41:50.559 --> 02:41:51.559
I want them removed.

02:41:51.559 --> 02:42:04.030
A, he touched me, B, he swore at me, and C, I don't have to put up with that.

02:42:04.030 --> 02:42:09.329
So what I brought up, and now that he's already put this out there, I'm going to respond.

02:42:09.329 --> 02:42:12.290
I can get my neighbors on the phone and I can ask them the questions that I brought

02:42:12.290 --> 02:42:13.729
up tonight.

02:42:13.729 --> 02:42:17.530
All I'm trying to do is stand up for the people of Freeport, something that he doesn't want

02:42:17.530 --> 02:42:18.530
to do.

02:42:18.530 --> 02:42:24.209
And if you really want to talk about the past, since 1969, I've been on this earth and we've

02:42:24.209 --> 02:42:29.350
put more roads in than you did in your entire tour as a previous alderman.

02:42:29.350 --> 02:42:32.409
So if you really want to have a conversation, let's have that conversation.

02:42:32.409 --> 02:42:35.889
But my point is this, this is about finance.

02:42:35.889 --> 02:42:37.329
This is about money.

02:42:37.329 --> 02:42:43.649
And this is about we keep spending money nonstop and we keep demanding more of the citizen

02:42:43.649 --> 02:42:44.649
Boyer.

02:42:44.649 --> 02:43:01.170
I would like to make everyone aware that this is funded with $13.5 million in grant funding

02:43:01.170 --> 02:43:06.750
that has to be used up in a very short period of time for the benefit of the City of Freeport

02:43:06.750 --> 02:43:08.829
and its residents.

02:43:08.829 --> 02:43:15.030
but that doesn't mean we don't spend it in a manner that's consistent with being fiscally

02:43:15.030 --> 02:43:16.030
responsible.

02:43:16.030 --> 02:43:19.389
Okay, so let's get back to this resolution.

02:43:19.389 --> 02:43:20.389
Can I?

02:43:20.389 --> 02:43:23.270
Yes, Alderman Stacey.

02:43:23.270 --> 02:43:35.950
And that should not mean that we as council people do not have a choice or option of sending

02:43:35.950 --> 02:43:37.750
and this out for being.

02:43:37.750 --> 02:43:39.389
That was not even given to us.

02:43:39.389 --> 02:43:40.989
That option was not given to us.

02:43:40.989 --> 02:43:44.229
You made the decision on your own

02:43:44.229 --> 02:43:48.510
because they did well 11 to do well 12.

02:43:49.510 --> 02:43:53.489
When we should have had that option.

02:43:53.489 --> 02:43:56.629
Am I correct in saying that?

02:43:56.629 --> 02:43:59.930
We did not have an option we should not have?

02:44:01.190 --> 02:44:02.030
Manager Boyer.

02:44:02.030 --> 02:44:10.329
Alderwoman Stacy, we don't change horses in the middle of a race. No, that's not the

02:44:10.329 --> 02:44:15.930
question. No. I am sorry. I have to tell you, we have had nothing but excellent

02:44:15.930 --> 02:44:20.590
outcomes. We have had nothing but willingness to correct deficiencies.

02:44:20.590 --> 02:44:26.750
We've had responsive service. We have had everything working in our favor, and that

02:44:26.750 --> 02:44:31.790
is why well 11 went so smoothly once we got the well drilled, and that is why

02:44:31.790 --> 02:44:38.670
May, Will, 12, will be soon. Should we as a council been given the option to send this

02:44:38.670 --> 02:44:46.950
job out to be it? It's about qualification. But that is a yes or no? No, it's not. Not

02:44:46.950 --> 02:44:53.790
according to what we have. It's about qualification. How do we know that they're legit engineers?

02:44:53.790 --> 02:45:00.729
How do we know that? We don't. It's the third time we've done large projects with them.

02:45:00.729 --> 02:45:02.370
who are very skilled in what they've done...

02:45:02.370 --> 02:45:04.069
You are avoiding my question.

02:45:04.069 --> 02:45:06.350
No, I'm not avoiding your question.

02:45:06.350 --> 02:45:12.489
You don't go out to bid for engineers, you go out for RFQs which is qualifications.

02:45:12.489 --> 02:45:14.250
What's Attorney Zeddo read?

02:45:14.250 --> 02:45:16.229
Exactly what he told you is qualifications.

02:45:16.229 --> 02:45:20.850
It said that we had the option to go out for bid, we had a choice.

02:45:20.850 --> 02:45:26.049
Not for bid, for qualifications.

02:45:26.049 --> 02:45:30.190
I think what we're disagreeing right now is just terminology, okay?

02:45:30.190 --> 02:45:31.870
is a baseline concept.

02:45:31.870 --> 02:45:34.590
Engineers, you don't use the word bid.

02:45:34.590 --> 02:45:35.829
That's a very technical thing.

02:45:35.829 --> 02:45:38.590
But I think for practical purposes, it's a bid.

02:45:38.590 --> 02:45:42.309
But it's really called qualification-based system, QBS,

02:45:42.309 --> 02:45:44.030
for engineers.

02:45:44.030 --> 02:45:46.829
So yes, it is a competitive process.

02:45:46.829 --> 02:45:48.309
But is it technically called a bid?

02:45:48.309 --> 02:45:49.709
No, it's not.

02:45:49.709 --> 02:45:51.709
So I don't want to get people hung up.

02:45:51.709 --> 02:45:53.510
I don't want people to get hung up on that.

02:45:53.510 --> 02:45:55.670
But with the QBS process, the main distinction

02:45:55.670 --> 02:45:57.829
is when you go through the process

02:45:57.829 --> 02:46:01.069
and you entertain all these different engineers, right?

02:46:01.069 --> 02:46:03.709
They can't tell you a dollar amount, okay?

02:46:03.709 --> 02:46:05.129
Cause it's not based on price.

02:46:05.129 --> 02:46:08.430
It's based on who's the most qualified to do the job.

02:46:08.430 --> 02:46:10.110
You pick the person first based off of

02:46:10.110 --> 02:46:11.469
who's the most qualified.

02:46:11.469 --> 02:46:14.270
After you pick them, then you negotiate the price.

02:46:14.270 --> 02:46:16.110
So that's what's different between

02:46:16.110 --> 02:46:18.170
what's traditionally thought of as a bid

02:46:18.170 --> 02:46:21.309
versus QBS, qualification.

02:46:21.309 --> 02:46:24.430
Just as a name, it's based on qualifications there.

02:46:24.430 --> 02:46:26.750
So again, that's a distinction.

02:46:26.750 --> 02:46:28.709
there between the two processes.

02:46:28.709 --> 02:46:31.670
That said, I think where you were saying about what I said,

02:46:31.670 --> 02:46:33.389
right, engineers go through QBS.

02:46:33.389 --> 02:46:35.709
You have the right to go through a QBS

02:46:35.709 --> 02:46:37.409
if you want to as a council.

02:46:37.409 --> 02:46:38.790
You guys have that call.

02:46:38.790 --> 02:46:43.790
Staff has presented a name for you guys instead

02:46:43.790 --> 02:46:45.790
because you don't have to use the QBS process also

02:46:45.790 --> 02:46:46.989
if you don't want to.

02:46:46.989 --> 02:46:48.590
So ultimately, it's your guys' call.

02:46:48.590 --> 02:46:50.290
If you want to go back and say, hey, thanks

02:46:50.290 --> 02:46:52.629
for presenting a name, a recommendation,

02:46:52.629 --> 02:46:55.010
but we as a council decide we want to go through the QBS

02:46:55.010 --> 02:46:57.010
and

02:46:58.250 --> 02:47:00.250
DeRionne, did you want to add to that?

02:47:00.329 --> 02:47:02.329
Yes, just a couple of facts.

02:47:02.409 --> 02:47:06.290
So this is the third project that we've done with RLJ and

02:47:06.370 --> 02:47:08.370
Burners for Freeport.

02:47:08.450 --> 02:47:10.450
Well, House 11 went very well.

02:47:10.530 --> 02:47:15.329
We didn't have, in a percentage basis, we barely had any change

02:47:15.409 --> 02:47:18.409
orders on the job for the end of the project.

02:47:18.489 --> 02:47:21.489
So that means the quality engineering was done, otherwise

02:47:21.569 --> 02:47:23.569
your change orders generally go up.

02:47:23.569 --> 02:47:32.809
Goebel, and also both companies held their price from 2019 for this job, which is unheard

02:47:32.809 --> 02:47:37.010
of since there's that many years of labor increases and so on and so forth.

02:47:37.010 --> 02:47:42.370
So that's something that we did negotiate with them based on the familiarity with Freeport.

02:47:42.370 --> 02:47:47.370
So the fact is they are saving Freeport money because they're familiar with Freeport, they're

02:47:47.370 --> 02:47:51.610
familiar with our process, they're familiar with Public Works, they're familiar with our

02:47:51.610 --> 02:48:16.129
We're always under a time crunch.

02:48:16.129 --> 02:48:20.809
I don't make the rule, Cecelia, the money for 13.3 million dollars is worth meeting

02:48:20.809 --> 02:48:24.809
the deadline. If we don't meet the deadline, that money will not be transferred to next

02:48:24.809 --> 02:48:25.809
year.

02:48:25.809 --> 02:48:30.329
And that 14 million dollar project will now become the city's sole responsibility?

02:48:30.329 --> 02:48:31.329
Correct.

02:48:31.329 --> 02:48:32.329
That move.

02:48:32.329 --> 02:48:33.850
Alderman Sanders, did you have something to add?

02:48:33.850 --> 02:48:41.510
I had a lot to say, but your interruption and his interruptions and the fact that I couldn't

02:48:41.510 --> 02:48:48.350
and John. I want to get my point out to get a clear understanding. It's almost as if you

02:48:48.350 --> 02:48:57.350
are avoiding me from talking. I had a legitimate question to ask, but you got my anxiety moving

02:48:57.350 --> 02:49:05.069
right about now. And the fact that you're making statements that only engineers, engineers

02:49:05.069 --> 02:49:11.590
Engineers are not just the sole person that is brought into the project.

02:49:11.590 --> 02:49:19.989
Engineers are something of a secondary or sub person or company that comes in to engineer

02:49:19.989 --> 02:49:20.989
a project.

02:49:20.989 --> 02:49:26.909
My whole thing is who would be the general contractor for such a project?

02:49:26.909 --> 02:49:28.909
Then you can implement

02:49:28.909 --> 02:49:35.680
and John, and then you can implement whoever you want to decide to bring in, to engineer,

02:49:35.680 --> 02:49:41.159
to do the architect, all of those things, but who is the contractor that's going to

02:49:41.159 --> 02:49:51.760
oversee this particular project that will allow the council to see who are they?

02:49:51.760 --> 02:50:03.280
because under the term general contractor comes many, many prospects of picking and to do

02:50:03.280 --> 02:50:05.079
bidding.

02:50:05.079 --> 02:50:07.879
Take the engineer out of the subject.

02:50:07.879 --> 02:50:09.479
We're not talking engineer first.

02:50:09.479 --> 02:50:15.000
We're talking contractors and they are the ones, the general contractors are the ones

02:50:15.000 --> 02:50:20.000
who determines who they want to work on the project,

02:50:21.079 --> 02:50:26.079
not anyone else, and that's for all general contractors

02:50:26.559 --> 02:50:30.200
who wants to do a bidding for whatever project

02:50:30.200 --> 02:50:32.479
that goes before it, and if we're not allowed

02:50:32.479 --> 02:50:36.639
to look at other bidders, then that means

02:50:36.639 --> 02:50:40.040
that we're looking from one entity

02:50:40.040 --> 02:50:44.840
that is creating a monopoly within the city ranks

02:50:44.840 --> 02:50:57.930
and so we want to scrutinize everything that is being proposed from your position, Manager

02:50:57.930 --> 02:51:04.090
Boyer's position, anybody else that is making a comment on this, trying to make this thing

02:51:04.090 --> 02:51:06.610
passive, to pass.

02:51:06.610 --> 02:51:14.649
So let's just open this thing up and make some serious clarity about who's in charge.

02:51:14.649 --> 02:51:17.290
and the engineers not in charge.

02:51:17.290 --> 02:51:20.610
So your statement there was very inaccurate, Mr. Sanders.

02:51:20.610 --> 02:51:21.610
I'm sorry.

02:51:21.610 --> 02:51:26.329
The contractor would never be in charge of this project because this has to go out to

02:51:26.329 --> 02:51:28.889
bid to select a contractor that's required.

02:51:28.889 --> 02:51:30.770
That's what I was getting to.

02:51:30.770 --> 02:51:33.889
The bid is not done until the engineering is done.

02:51:33.889 --> 02:51:35.870
Otherwise you have no project.

02:51:35.870 --> 02:51:36.870
You can't do one.

02:51:36.870 --> 02:51:37.870
Okay.

02:51:37.870 --> 02:51:38.870
Okay.

02:51:38.870 --> 02:51:39.870
But Darren has floor right now.

02:51:39.870 --> 02:51:40.870
So let him finish talking.

02:51:40.870 --> 02:51:48.069
Works with the EPA money is you have to have an engineer and a design group that designs the project

02:51:48.069 --> 02:51:54.629
and then it goes to bid for the low responsible contractor. That is the way these programs work.

02:51:54.629 --> 02:51:59.670
We don't select the contractor. The city doesn't select the contractor. The low bid process

02:51:59.670 --> 02:52:06.309
selects the contractor on the construction, not on the engineering. That's the way the process

02:52:06.309 --> 02:52:11.770
Brooks works in Illinois, that is the way every municipality has to operate or you don't

02:52:11.770 --> 02:52:18.549
get the funds. That is the way it works. QBS process or your familiarity with engineers

02:52:18.549 --> 02:52:23.370
and then you design the project, then you go to bid for the low price, the bid, the

02:52:23.370 --> 02:52:30.850
competitive process is based on the contractor bidding the project to construct it.

02:52:30.850 --> 02:52:37.370
Boyer. I just also wanted to comment that the design and engineering falls within a

02:52:37.370 --> 02:52:42.129
certain range, acceptable range, you know anywhere from you know anywhere from 9

02:52:42.129 --> 02:52:46.690
to 12 percent is typical for the type of project that we're working on and the

02:52:46.690 --> 02:52:52.370
overall cost of this project is actually well within that range. Alderman Shadle,

02:52:52.370 --> 02:53:02.700
did you have your hand up? I did the engineering as Darren stated and the

02:53:02.700 --> 02:53:09.219
architecture is all the prints are property of the city that's all drawn

02:53:09.219 --> 02:53:16.540
for us the project is bid off of those prints what we're talking about is a

02:53:16.540 --> 02:53:23.500
document that's going to be probably in the neighborhood of 70 to 100 pages

02:53:23.500 --> 02:53:34.459
Williams, 300 pages. If there's omissions in the engineering, if there's omissions in

02:53:34.459 --> 02:53:43.620
the drawings, if things are not figured correctly, if they're not drawn correctly, you get halfway

02:53:43.620 --> 02:53:49.860
into the project, and Darren made mention of the fact that on Well 11, there was virtually

02:53:49.860 --> 02:53:56.120
No change orders and those are generated from the mistakes that are made if you

02:53:56.120 --> 02:54:05.340
hire the wrong engineer and the wrong architect. Thank you. Any of you that have

02:54:05.340 --> 02:54:10.379
not spoken yet? Then we'll move on. Alderman Sanders, you can have your

02:54:10.379 --> 02:54:17.379
second reading. Yeah, thank you for that, Shadle. Thank you for that explanation.

02:54:17.379 --> 02:54:24.379
but yet still after you get said and done and done all of the designing and

02:54:24.379 --> 02:54:30.180
the engineering you still have to have a contractor to do that job am I correct

02:54:30.180 --> 02:54:35.299
I'm asking a question okay I don't want you to be saying that's it you know

02:54:35.299 --> 02:54:39.639
ask your question I'm asking don't don't push it I'm just trying to ask my

02:54:39.639 --> 02:54:51.479
question is that correct and it's not about it's not about who's most qualified

02:54:51.479 --> 02:54:57.579
because all contractors who are going to bid on this job will come will want to

02:54:57.579 --> 02:55:03.180
have their most qualified engineers on this project am I correct

02:55:09.639 --> 02:55:37.399
sorry who's doing the evaluation and the city have to be qualified to qualify an

02:55:37.399 --> 02:56:01.700
and these people have to be qualified.

02:56:01.700 --> 02:56:03.940
Even with the low bid contracts.

02:56:03.940 --> 02:56:09.520
So within the bid package is usually an enormous package, probably more than the 400 pages

02:56:09.520 --> 02:56:12.459
that he referenced tonight.

02:56:12.459 --> 02:56:16.860
Everybody has to give qualifications, they have to give references, they have to give

02:56:16.860 --> 02:56:21.219
bondability, depending on how big the job is, there's a huge packet that goes through

02:56:21.219 --> 02:56:22.299
that.

02:56:22.299 --> 02:56:24.659
We evaluate them after the bid contractor.

02:56:24.659 --> 02:56:28.139
So if you get three bids, you evaluate three packages, if you get two, you evaluate two,

02:56:28.139 --> 02:56:30.459
you get ten, you evaluate ten.

02:56:30.459 --> 02:56:36.180
there's also things called bond inquiries where you can go against or go to firms

02:56:36.180 --> 02:56:39.979
and ask questions about contractors whether they've had claims against them

02:56:39.979 --> 02:56:43.899
whether they what whether they've done bad work for somebody else so that's all

02:56:43.899 --> 02:56:49.020
through the bidding process which is an enormous process and then we go through

02:56:49.020 --> 02:56:53.219
all of that in the background after its bid and then make a recommendation to

02:56:53.219 --> 02:56:59.459
counsel now in order not to select a low bid during the process of a contractor

02:56:59.459 --> 02:57:00.459
Miller.

02:57:00.459 --> 02:57:02.260
You have to have a reason.

02:57:02.260 --> 02:57:06.739
So they have had to have done some bad work somewhere, something recorded.

02:57:06.739 --> 02:57:08.420
It's a process, a legal process.

02:57:08.420 --> 02:57:13.020
And if you don't do it correctly, that process, that contractor could come back and sue the

02:57:13.020 --> 02:57:14.020
city.

02:57:14.020 --> 02:57:18.139
So there is quite a process in evaluating whether someone's qualified or not.

02:57:18.139 --> 02:57:23.139
Well, okay, so let's let's let's rein this in a little bit.

02:57:23.139 --> 02:57:27.079
We've you've had way more than two times to ask questions.

02:57:27.079 --> 02:57:30.040
and there are also aldermen that haven't asked any.

02:57:30.040 --> 02:57:31.200
Okay, I respect that.

02:57:31.200 --> 02:57:34.920
Okay, so those that have not asked any questions,

02:57:34.920 --> 02:57:39.940
are you wanting to say anything in this moment?

02:57:39.940 --> 02:57:42.260
Because the two that are left, they've already spoken twice.

02:57:42.260 --> 02:57:44.020
If there's not an objection, I'll let it continue.

02:57:44.020 --> 02:57:46.340
If there is, then according to our ordinance,

02:57:46.340 --> 02:57:48.700
this conversation is ended.

02:57:48.700 --> 02:57:55.120
Yeah, I respect that.

02:57:55.120 --> 02:57:56.520
Go ahead, Council.

02:57:56.520 --> 02:57:58.399
Are you allowing me to continue?

02:57:58.399 --> 02:58:01.200
I'm asking the council if, according to the ordinance,

02:58:01.200 --> 02:58:02.340
if that's acceptable.

02:58:03.520 --> 02:58:05.520
Oh, you're asking counsel. Okay.

02:58:08.680 --> 02:58:12.959
The two aldermen that want to continue discussion have already used up their

02:58:13.440 --> 02:58:20.239
So I guess the way I would frame it if if counsel if there's no objections to this conversation continuing

02:58:21.639 --> 02:58:26.719
Then it'll continue if you don't want it to continue and want to just move on to a vote speak up now

02:58:26.719 --> 02:58:28.719
If you don't if you want to end the conversation

02:58:29.399 --> 02:58:31.319
Move on to a vote

02:58:31.319 --> 02:58:33.239
second

02:58:33.239 --> 02:58:35.840
Okay, well according to the ordinance it needs to be unanimous

02:58:35.840 --> 02:58:43.879
So the the conversation for the alderman that wanted to do extra discussion is was not approved according to the ordinance

02:58:45.559 --> 02:58:50.559
Yeah, this is how we do business according to the ordinance. Yeah, I understand madam clerk

02:58:51.079 --> 02:58:54.879
Since unless there's a member of the council that has not spoken you still have an opportunity

02:58:57.530 --> 02:58:59.530
Okay, then madam clerk, please take the role

02:59:01.489 --> 02:59:03.010
Stacy

02:59:03.010 --> 02:59:05.969
No, Shadle, Sanders

02:59:05.969 --> 02:59:13.489
Sellers? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Nope. Simmons? No.

02:59:25.360 --> 02:59:37.879
Aye. Parker. Aye. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 is enough to pass. The resolution is adopted 5 to 3.

02:59:37.879 --> 02:59:43.159
Move on to item number 23, which is the adoption of resolution 2024-126. Could

02:59:43.159 --> 02:59:47.520
you please read this? Resolution approving a final plat of subdivision for plat

02:59:47.520 --> 02:59:56.629
number 2 of Schopko subdivision of the City of Freeport. Director Duckman. Thank

02:59:56.629 --> 02:59:59.110
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

02:59:59.110 --> 03:00:03.389
So this is currently at the True Storage Building.

03:00:03.389 --> 03:00:06.670
Or I'm sorry, it's a CubeSmart.

03:00:06.670 --> 03:00:07.670
It's old ShopCo.

03:00:07.670 --> 03:00:09.350
If you're looking for a reference,

03:00:09.350 --> 03:00:14.190
it's at the intersection of Rosentiel and South Street.

03:00:14.190 --> 03:00:16.750
So can I give an idea of where we're at here?

03:00:16.750 --> 03:00:20.030
And Director Suttman, if you wouldn't mind scrolling down,

03:00:20.030 --> 03:00:25.870
I can kind of show them a photo of this subdivision here.

03:00:25.870 --> 03:00:34.069
So what's happening is the CubeSmart, which sits right

03:00:34.069 --> 03:00:42.190
here, what they currently own is this parcel.

03:00:42.190 --> 03:00:46.010
They own two outlots, a lot one and a lot two here.

03:00:46.010 --> 03:00:48.270
And at the moment, when this was originally designed

03:00:48.270 --> 03:00:50.350
and platted, which basically means it went

03:00:50.350 --> 03:00:52.870
through the process of a subdivision plait where they

03:00:52.870 --> 03:00:59.870
We obviously know the end of the story here is that these were never developed. There was not enough interest to develop these into some sort of McDonald's, et cetera, some store.

03:00:59.870 --> 03:01:06.870
So what happened is when CubeSmart took over, they wanted to, and their plan is to extend and build outdoor stores.

03:01:06.870 --> 03:01:14.069
There was not enough interest to develop these into some sort of McDonald's, etc., some store.

03:01:14.870 --> 03:01:21.350
So what happened is when CubeSmart took over, they wanted to and their plan is to extend and build

03:01:21.350 --> 03:01:29.190
some and build outdoor storage in this area. Well, step one of the process is they they need this

03:01:29.190 --> 03:01:34.469
plat because they need to vacate easements to lots that they no longer intend to have.

03:01:34.469 --> 03:01:50.469
So essentially here, you have a new plan of business, a new plan for development. They no longer see a desire to develop these lots. Therefore, they no longer need this access easement to these two lots. They're going to combine it into one large lot.

03:01:50.469 --> 03:02:05.469
So, in line with the ordinance, which has been also distributed in your agenda packet, this goes before the Planning Commission to have a preliminary plat review and a final plat review.

03:02:05.469 --> 03:02:11.469
And the preliminary plat was recommended for approval on November 14th.

03:02:11.469 --> 03:02:17.350
and it was by a vote of six yeas, zero nays, and one abstention and the final

03:02:17.350 --> 03:02:22.290
plat was recommended for approval by a vote of six yeas, zero nays, and one

03:02:22.290 --> 03:02:27.250
abstention and staff recommends approval of this resolution. Is there a motion to

03:02:27.250 --> 03:02:34.110
adopt? So moved. Make a second. Moving motion made by Alderman Sellers. Seconded

03:02:34.110 --> 03:02:38.750
by Alderman Shadle. Discussion on the resolution. Alderman Sellers. I just have

03:02:38.750 --> 03:02:39.750
Huffines.

03:02:39.750 --> 03:02:42.319
I have a quick question.

03:02:42.319 --> 03:02:44.479
I would just like, is that the parking lot then?

03:02:44.479 --> 03:02:46.840
You know, because they have a very big parking lot.

03:02:46.840 --> 03:02:47.840
Yes.

03:02:47.840 --> 03:02:51.159
So this would be the front.

03:02:51.159 --> 03:02:54.399
This is kind of where you would pull into the cube, this rosentile.

03:02:54.399 --> 03:02:56.379
You'd pull in here.

03:02:56.379 --> 03:03:01.799
And this is actually the front of the store, the front of CubeSmart.

03:03:01.799 --> 03:03:05.840
And you know, you were saying that's a big parking lot.

03:03:05.840 --> 03:03:10.159
Well, if things would have gone according to plan, they would have had two tenants

03:03:10.159 --> 03:03:10.579
John, Brian, Adam, Brian, Ashly, Josh, Melina,

03:03:10.579 --> 03:03:14.180
D towards South Street, things didn't go

03:03:14.180 --> 03:03:16.200
according to plan, they are pivoting and

03:03:16.200 --> 03:03:17.799
now they are saying okay, we are going to

03:03:17.799 --> 03:03:20.079
put outdoor storage in that parking lot

03:03:20.079 --> 03:03:20.700
area.

03:03:20.700 --> 03:03:24.819
Oler and Stacy?

03:03:24.819 --> 03:03:28.559
So you are speaking behind what was

03:03:28.559 --> 03:03:29.559
SHAPCO?

03:03:29.559 --> 03:03:32.879
No, the parking lot.

03:03:32.879 --> 03:03:34.979
That is South Street, right off of it.

03:03:34.979 --> 03:03:36.579
Right here would be South Street.

03:03:36.579 --> 03:03:39.260
You know they have a large parking, this is

03:03:39.260 --> 03:03:42.100
Rosentee, they have a large parking lot in

03:03:42.100 --> 03:03:47.899
I'm saying the front here. I'm saying the front. It's the north. It's the north side of the parcel.

03:03:47.899 --> 03:03:53.899
South Street's up here. It's down the hill. You're looking down the hill.

03:03:53.899 --> 03:03:59.899
Across the street from Dairy Queen and the electric horse.

03:03:59.899 --> 03:04:05.379
It's from that.

03:04:05.379 --> 03:04:12.649
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:04:12.649 --> 03:04:42.649
Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? No. Monroe? No. And Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted 6-2. Item number 24 is approval of a bid. Could you please read this? A bid opening was held on November 7th, 2024 for CD009-2024 for rehabilitation of single home at 748 East Center Street. Thank you, Director.

03:04:42.649 --> 03:05:00.649
Thank you Madam Mayor. So the City of Freeport has been awarded the Community Development Block Grants of which a total of $550,000 of which $64,000 is allocated to grant administration and $486,000 goes to the rehabilitation of homes.

03:05:00.649 --> 03:05:10.149
City of Freeport held a bid opening on November 7th of 2024 for the construction of rehabilitation services of 748 East Center Street.

03:05:10.149 --> 03:05:16.649
It received one bid in the amount of $54,775 by CMM and Associates.

03:05:16.649 --> 03:05:25.649
The scope of work that has been agreed upon by the City of Freeport and the property owner includes the following construction rehabilitation services.

03:05:25.649 --> 03:05:31.649
This is a new roof, new bathroom fixtures, new bathroom floor, and siding repairs.

03:05:31.649 --> 03:05:43.649
Staff recommends issuing a contract to CMM and Associates in the amount of $54,775 for the Construction Rehabilitation Services at 748 East Center Street.

03:05:43.649 --> 03:05:45.649
Is there a motion to approve this bid?

03:05:45.649 --> 03:05:46.649
So moved.

03:05:46.649 --> 03:05:47.649
Second.

03:05:47.649 --> 03:05:54.700
We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion?

03:05:54.700 --> 03:05:55.700
Alderman Monroe.

03:05:55.700 --> 03:06:00.620
thank you madam mayor what's the square footage on the property I don't have

03:06:00.620 --> 03:06:04.639
that information right in front of me I can't kick I know the reason I ask is

03:06:04.639 --> 03:06:08.500
you know for the cost that you know kind of estimating the cost of roof and I'm

03:06:08.500 --> 03:06:12.739
not sure how much they're putting in and siding repairs is that a significant

03:06:12.739 --> 03:06:16.540
amount I have that in the packet I can I can get that to you but it's a

03:06:16.540 --> 03:06:20.180
significant amount of work and I think one of the biggest issues and concerns

03:06:20.180 --> 03:06:25.540
here is early on when we had some of the contractors coming to look at it

03:06:25.540 --> 03:06:27.540
and

03:06:28.540 --> 03:06:30.540
John.

03:06:31.540 --> 03:06:33.540
I think that's a great point. A lot of them end up walking

03:06:33.540 --> 03:06:36.540
away because you have to be a licensed lead contractor in order

03:06:36.540 --> 03:06:39.540
to qualify for this grant. So you have to do an additional

03:06:39.540 --> 03:06:43.540
license and many, like, we had, early on we had several

03:06:43.540 --> 03:06:46.540
contractors interested and they all walked away from some of

03:06:46.540 --> 03:06:49.540
the higher requirements. So I do think that some of the

03:06:49.540 --> 03:06:53.540
restrictions from the state make it a little more restrictive

03:06:53.540 --> 03:06:56.860
New pair off of the roof. I know it's an entire tear off and a full new

03:06:56.860 --> 03:07:00.540
roof installation.

03:07:00.540 --> 03:07:02.000
Any other discussion?

03:07:02.000 --> 03:07:03.239
Old Man Stacy?

03:07:03.239 --> 03:07:06.860
This is part of the community development block grant?

03:07:06.860 --> 03:07:15.139
Correct. That housing rehabilitation grant for the five hundred and fifty thousand? Yes.

03:07:15.139 --> 03:07:20.889
The homes on Adams and along Adams Avenue corridor.

03:07:20.889 --> 03:07:22.409
Any further discussion?

03:07:22.409 --> 03:07:26.510
One more question. Is the home privately owned or is it owned by?

03:07:26.510 --> 03:07:37.309
Every home that's in this grant goes through a highly restrictive, high vetting process and they have to be owner occupied.

03:07:37.309 --> 03:07:42.909
So they have to be owner occupied. So there were some concerns about landlord-owned properties.

03:07:42.909 --> 03:07:49.409
A couple things I want to state there. They have to be owner occupied and the grant is need-based.

03:07:49.409 --> 03:07:55.809
So there's a scoring system that they have that the state provides and certain more points are given to

03:07:55.809 --> 03:07:57.809
B. B. B. B.

03:07:59.809 --> 03:08:01.809
.

03:08:03.829 --> 03:08:05.829
.

03:08:07.829 --> 03:08:09.829
.

03:08:11.829 --> 03:08:13.829
.

03:08:15.829 --> 03:08:17.829
.

03:08:18.829 --> 03:08:20.829
.

03:08:21.829 --> 03:08:23.829
.

03:08:23.829 --> 03:08:31.350
Thomas before. I'm not sure, but I ask again, what makes you eligible? Again, I know you

03:08:31.350 --> 03:08:36.549
have given all this time out there, but what actually makes you eligible?

03:08:36.549 --> 03:08:41.350
So at the time in 2021, I was not here for this application when these were originally

03:08:41.350 --> 03:08:46.590
submitted. But at the time, it had to do with the geographic region, which is a census block

03:08:46.590 --> 03:08:52.590
tract, which is a fancy way of saying that our federal government divides of our many

03:08:52.590 --> 03:08:57.750
Many maps that overlap each other are census block tracks that they do statistics on for

03:08:57.750 --> 03:09:02.750
our communities and when this grant application was done you had to live within the census

03:09:02.750 --> 03:09:04.270
block track.

03:09:04.270 --> 03:09:08.950
I say the Adams Avenue corridor because it's easier than saying census block track number

03:09:08.950 --> 03:09:10.350
75.

03:09:10.350 --> 03:09:12.709
Just people don't think like that.

03:09:12.709 --> 03:09:18.469
So you had to live within the census block track and it has a certain sense of statement

03:09:18.469 --> 03:09:23.950
of Qualifications for Income and Elderly.

03:09:23.950 --> 03:09:27.280
We have a lot of people with disabilities and that was all part of the application that

03:09:27.280 --> 03:09:28.280
was originally submitted.

03:09:28.280 --> 03:09:32.440
So you had to be in that geographic area and then you had to submit an application.

03:09:32.440 --> 03:09:36.120
So this was an ongoing project?

03:09:36.120 --> 03:09:37.120
Not right now.

03:09:37.120 --> 03:09:41.159
The application's deadline was done.

03:09:41.159 --> 03:09:48.920
Region 1 planning council was hired to grade all of the applications based on the factors

03:09:48.920 --> 03:09:50.219
that I stated.

03:09:50.219 --> 03:09:56.139
So Region 1 was retained as a planning council on the suggestion of the state.

03:09:56.139 --> 03:09:59.180
They reviewed and scored all of these applications.

03:09:59.180 --> 03:10:00.659
So this is not open right now.

03:10:00.659 --> 03:10:01.659
Okay.

03:10:01.659 --> 03:10:02.659
All right.

03:10:02.659 --> 03:10:03.659
Thank you.

03:10:03.659 --> 03:10:04.659
Did you have a second one?

03:10:04.659 --> 03:10:05.659
Yes.

03:10:05.659 --> 03:10:27.149
How do we know that they truly qualify and that there's no hidden agendas, not that

03:10:27.149 --> 03:10:28.149
Huffines.

03:10:28.149 --> 03:10:29.149
I'm going to ask you a question.

03:10:29.149 --> 03:10:30.229
How do we know that you're hiding but that they're hiding?

03:10:30.229 --> 03:10:42.989
How do we know that financially they are able to even receive this money?

03:10:42.989 --> 03:10:49.430
Well I do know for the one, I do know that I have obviously been asked to, and it's on

03:10:49.430 --> 03:10:51.870
later on so I'm not going to spend a lot of time talking about it, but I was asked about

03:10:51.870 --> 03:10:58.270
about one property in particular, and I do know that income verification is done at several

03:10:58.270 --> 03:11:01.069
points along the way.

03:11:01.069 --> 03:11:03.610
So the state has contemplated this being an issue.

03:11:03.610 --> 03:11:04.909
Do I think somebody could lie?

03:11:04.909 --> 03:11:06.190
People lie about everything.

03:11:06.190 --> 03:11:10.909
So do I think if somebody was committed to doing it and could lie and possibly, sure,

03:11:10.909 --> 03:11:11.909
it's done everywhere.

03:11:11.909 --> 03:11:16.350
But my point is the state has contemplated that this being an issue.

03:11:16.350 --> 03:11:23.129
So, for example, on income verification, I have seen Social Security statements that

03:11:23.129 --> 03:11:29.670
the people are willing to share with the city, and I have seen income tax returns.

03:11:29.670 --> 03:11:34.110
So people are trying, and what I'm seeing, people are trying to be honest, they're showing

03:11:34.110 --> 03:11:39.309
their information, which is not easy for a lot of people to share, and they're showing

03:11:39.309 --> 03:11:49.030
their being honest on their, from what I'm seeing, they're being honest on their applications.

03:11:49.030 --> 03:11:59.530
else? Is it acceptable for a third round for Alderman Stacy? I thought I only spoke once.

03:12:01.530 --> 03:12:04.889
Well, I thought I had written down, but go ahead. I mean, I might have made a mistake.

03:12:05.530 --> 03:12:16.170
Okay, item 24 and item 25 is a factor of my item 31. And

03:12:16.170 --> 03:12:25.170
and I would like to make a motion that they are put on the December

03:12:25.170 --> 03:12:32.969
Kyle for further discussion.

03:12:32.969 --> 03:12:39.790
What did she say?

03:12:39.790 --> 03:12:43.790
Right now, right now you want to take 24, 25, and 31?

03:12:43.790 --> 03:12:48.790
31, I cannot get to it until we get through everything else.

03:12:48.790 --> 03:12:53.790
But 31 is a part of 24 and 25.

03:12:53.790 --> 03:12:59.590
So am I hearing you correctly? You want to move 24, 25, and 31 on to December COW?

03:12:59.590 --> 03:13:05.790
I want to move 24 and 25 to the COW.

03:13:05.790 --> 03:13:09.790
Is there a second to that motion?

03:13:09.790 --> 03:13:14.799
I'll second it.

03:13:14.799 --> 03:13:22.799
Okay, so the topic now is moving these items to the December COW for more discussion.

03:13:22.799 --> 03:13:54.530
is there discussion on that particular part? Madam Clerk, could you? Just could I ask the question, will it hinder the time where the contractor is going to do the work? Yes. Because the money is already there and already approved and already. Yes, at the basic level, it's putting a roof on a house. So if you delay putting a roof on a house, you go to December. I can't read the tea leaves on the weather. All the person Monroe could do a better job.

03:13:54.530 --> 03:13:57.030
Hottam, and

03:13:57.030 --> 03:13:59.430
David G.

03:13:59.430 --> 03:14:01.930
Palmer.

03:14:01.930 --> 03:14:04.309
When you put on a roof, when you want to put a roof on a

03:14:04.309 --> 03:14:08.610
house, you get colder in a year, it doesn't, there becomes a

03:14:08.610 --> 03:14:11.850
point when it starts getting cold enough, you can no longer

03:14:11.850 --> 03:14:15.709
put roofs on houses, so this would essentially put this back

03:14:15.709 --> 03:14:17.309
until spring.

03:14:17.309 --> 03:14:19.090
At least, probably April.

03:14:19.090 --> 03:14:23.049
Okay, so, if there's no further discussion on that particular

03:14:23.049 --> 03:14:53.049
Stacy? Aye. Shadle? No. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? No. Klemm? No. Monroe? No. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? No. The motion fails three to five. Okay, so we're back to the approval of this bid on 748 East Center Street. Is there any more discussion on 748 East Center? I'd like to make a motion, Madam Mayor.

03:14:53.049 --> 03:14:58.010
I would like to make a motion to suspend the rules well actually we don't need to

03:14:58.010 --> 03:15:01.329
we can oh that's right that's enough approve it it's approval never mind

03:15:01.329 --> 03:15:13.379
madam clerk please take the role Stacy no Shadle aye Sanders no Sellers aye

03:15:13.379 --> 03:15:22.860
Clem aye Monroe aye Simmons and Parker aye the motion passes 6 to 2 and item

03:15:22.860 --> 03:15:28.260
number 25 could you please read this bid approval there was a bid opening on

03:15:28.260 --> 03:15:35.659
November 7th 2024 for CD 010 2024 for rehab rehabilitation of a single home at

03:15:35.659 --> 03:15:43.200
833 South Adams Street director duckman thank you madam mayor so at 833 South

03:15:43.200 --> 03:15:47.579
Adams this property is also part of the community development block grant for

03:15:47.579 --> 03:15:52.840
housing rehabilitation and the city of Freeport held a bid opening on November

03:15:52.840 --> 03:15:59.639
For the construction rehabilitation services of 833 South Adams, and received one bid

03:15:59.639 --> 03:16:08.319
in the amount of $39,075 by CMM and Associates, and this scope of work has been agreed upon

03:16:08.319 --> 03:16:11.840
by the City of Freeport and the property owner, and it includes the following construction

03:16:11.840 --> 03:16:17.559
rehabilitation services, eight new windows, softened fascia repairs, upgraded electric

03:16:17.559 --> 03:16:23.879
Decker, Payer, New Gutters, and staff recommends moving forward by issuing a contract to CMM

03:16:23.879 --> 03:16:29.319
and Associates in the amount of $39,075 for the construction and rehabilitation services

03:16:29.319 --> 03:16:31.879
of 833 South Adams Avenue.

03:16:31.879 --> 03:16:33.879
Is there a motion to approve this bid?

03:16:33.879 --> 03:16:34.879
So moved.

03:16:34.879 --> 03:16:35.879
Second.

03:16:35.879 --> 03:16:40.600
We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

03:16:40.600 --> 03:16:43.200
Discussion on this bid.

03:16:43.200 --> 03:16:44.200
Alderman Sanders.

03:16:44.200 --> 03:17:11.200
Who evaluated this home and the list of items that needs to be improved? How do we generate that cost and where are we shopping for material things to make sure that the cost is not being driven by a particular one company or whatever? How do we get there?

03:17:11.200 --> 03:17:17.639
again very specific so on this particular grant we had a what is called

03:17:17.639 --> 03:17:23.000
it is a mandatory walkthrough on October 18th mandatory cannot move forward if I

03:17:23.000 --> 03:17:27.959
do not if city does not host this walkthrough so we have a consultant MSA

03:17:27.959 --> 03:17:33.719
as our consultants and they're our grant administrator through that consultant

03:17:33.719 --> 03:17:38.840
was at the house on October 18th we have a sign in for that our building

03:17:38.840 --> 03:17:39.840
Miller, DePauw, Huffman, Kroger, Lepore, Huffman, DePauw, LePauw, and Huffman.

03:17:39.840 --> 03:17:40.840
So that's the evaluation process.

03:17:40.840 --> 03:17:41.840
And so the housing inspector was present.

03:17:41.840 --> 03:17:45.219
And more importantly, part of this grant requires what's known.

03:17:45.219 --> 03:17:49.500
It requires a housing inspector that's certified through this grant.

03:17:49.500 --> 03:17:52.420
And we have that person.

03:17:52.420 --> 03:17:56.760
It's a contracted housing inspector that creates a scope of work that hands out the scope of

03:17:56.760 --> 03:17:59.219
work at that particular meeting.

03:17:59.219 --> 03:18:03.079
So they're saying, here's what has been decided upon that need that what you're bidding on.

03:18:03.079 --> 03:18:07.139
So that's a requirement of this grant.

03:18:07.139 --> 03:18:12.139
So that's the evaluation process that the state requires for any of this to move forward.

03:18:12.139 --> 03:18:13.139
Okay. Thank you.

03:18:13.139 --> 03:18:17.459
Yep.

03:18:17.459 --> 03:18:21.459
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:18:21.459 --> 03:18:22.459
Stacy?

03:18:22.459 --> 03:18:23.459
No.

03:18:23.459 --> 03:18:24.459
Shadle?

03:18:24.459 --> 03:18:25.459
Aye.

03:18:25.459 --> 03:18:26.459
Sanders?

03:18:26.459 --> 03:18:27.459
Aye.

03:18:27.459 --> 03:18:28.459
Sellers?

03:18:28.459 --> 03:18:29.459
Aye.

03:18:29.459 --> 03:18:30.459
Klemm?

03:18:30.459 --> 03:18:31.459
Aye.

03:18:31.459 --> 03:18:32.459
Monroe?

03:18:32.459 --> 03:18:33.459
Aye.

03:18:33.459 --> 03:18:34.459
Simmons?

03:18:34.459 --> 03:18:35.459
Aye.

03:18:35.459 --> 03:18:36.459
And Parker?

03:18:36.459 --> 03:18:37.459
Aye.

03:18:37.459 --> 03:18:38.459
The motion passes seven to one.

03:18:38.459 --> 03:18:39.459
Item number 26, another bid approval.

03:18:39.459 --> 03:18:44.459
This bid opening was held on November 14th, 2024, CD012-24,

03:18:45.379 --> 03:18:48.860
demolition of nine residential properties.

03:18:48.860 --> 03:18:50.399
Director Duckman.

03:18:50.399 --> 03:18:52.299
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

03:18:52.299 --> 03:18:56.579
So the city of Freeport held a bid opening

03:18:56.579 --> 03:19:00.059
for the demolition of nine properties.

03:19:00.059 --> 03:19:04.139
It was held on November 14th at nine o'clock in the morning

03:19:04.139 --> 03:19:08.000
and the city of Freeport received bids from four contractors.

03:19:08.000 --> 03:19:22.000
An analysis was provided in the memorandum to our council, and after reviewing the bids, it was, you know, the city elected to go with the lowest bid per actual individual property, and it's

03:19:22.000 --> 03:19:24.159
Per Actual Individual Property, and it's shown in that analysis.

03:19:24.159 --> 03:19:32.600
And based on that, staff is recommending that Klechner Excavating be granted $21,145 for

03:19:32.600 --> 03:19:38.159
the demolition of 622 East Winnipeg and 626 East Winnipeg.

03:19:38.159 --> 03:19:45.559
Fisher Excavating be awarded $91,495 for the demolition of 217 North Henderson, 425 South

03:19:45.559 --> 03:19:52.719
South Float, 441 South Benton, 634 North Warren, 706 East Winnipeg, 712 South Pine,

03:19:52.719 --> 03:19:55.280
and 1208 South Rotsler Avenue.

03:19:55.280 --> 03:19:59.500
All the funding from this grant is going to come from the IDA Strong Communities Program

03:19:59.500 --> 03:20:03.920
grant, which is commonly known as the grant for $300,000.

03:20:03.920 --> 03:20:05.379
Is there a motion to approve?

03:20:05.379 --> 03:20:06.379
So move.

03:20:06.379 --> 03:20:07.379
Second.

03:20:07.379 --> 03:20:11.500
The motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

03:20:11.500 --> 03:20:12.500
Discussion on the bid?

03:20:12.500 --> 03:20:13.500
Alderman Simmons.

03:20:13.500 --> 03:20:48.559
Alderman, Simmons. Director Duckman, why isn't the house across this, could you repeat that, I was sorry. Yes, I was asking there's a house right across the street from 626 on Winnipeg, that's all boarded up, why isn't that on this list, but the two across the street from that, that, that, I mean that they're both in bad condition, but the one that's been boarded up, why is that not on this list? The short answer to that, and if my

03:20:48.559 --> 03:20:54.200
and I'm just going off memory and I actually drove down, I posted the signs on Winnipeg

03:20:54.200 --> 03:20:58.639
for these because my inspector was out that day and I went down and asked him the same

03:20:58.639 --> 03:21:02.200
question and he reminded me that it was a particular owner that fought tooth and nail

03:21:02.200 --> 03:21:09.040
with the city against any action we had. So sometimes these take longer because as we

03:21:09.040 --> 03:21:14.840
move through this process they can file a complaint but I will, I'm being honest with

03:21:14.840 --> 03:21:18.120
you and I tell you I told my inspector I want that one moving forward because I said I don't

03:21:18.120 --> 03:21:22.899
and I want to keep going through knocking the ones down around it without missing that particular

03:21:22.899 --> 03:21:23.899
house.

03:21:23.899 --> 03:21:28.200
But that's the answer why is that some property owners, even though when the writing is on

03:21:28.200 --> 03:21:36.569
the wall, they fight the demolition of their properties.

03:21:36.569 --> 03:21:37.569
Alderman Sanders.

03:21:37.569 --> 03:21:38.569
Yeah.

03:21:38.569 --> 03:21:42.889
How many properties are we talking about?

03:21:42.889 --> 03:21:43.889
Nine properties.

03:21:43.889 --> 03:21:49.850
Nine properties on this award.

03:21:49.850 --> 03:21:53.930
We do have a demolition contractor to do the job.

03:21:53.930 --> 03:21:54.430
Correct.

03:21:54.430 --> 03:21:56.969
So what you're voting on, what you would be voting on,

03:21:56.969 --> 03:22:01.010
is two of them are for Klechner and nine of them are for,

03:22:01.010 --> 03:22:02.770
two of them are for Klechner, seven of them

03:22:02.770 --> 03:22:04.850
are for Fisher excavating.

03:22:04.850 --> 03:22:08.079
OK.

03:22:08.079 --> 03:22:09.639
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:22:09.639 --> 03:22:13.520
Stacy?

03:22:13.520 --> 03:22:14.120
Aye.

03:22:14.120 --> 03:22:14.840
Shadle?

03:22:14.840 --> 03:22:15.319
Aye.

03:22:15.319 --> 03:22:15.959
Sanders?

03:22:15.959 --> 03:22:16.479
Aye.

03:22:16.479 --> 03:22:16.979
Sellers?

03:22:16.979 --> 03:22:17.479
Aye.

03:22:17.479 --> 03:22:17.979
Klemm?

03:22:17.979 --> 03:22:18.479
Aye.

03:22:18.479 --> 03:22:19.079
Monroe?

03:22:19.079 --> 03:22:19.579
Aye.

03:22:19.579 --> 03:22:20.559
Simmons?

03:22:20.559 --> 03:22:21.059
Aye.

03:22:21.059 --> 03:22:21.680
And Parker?

03:22:21.680 --> 03:22:22.479
Aye.

03:22:22.479 --> 03:22:25.200
The motion passes 8-0.

03:22:25.200 --> 03:22:29.579
Item number 27, can you please read this discussion ordinance?

03:22:29.579 --> 03:22:34.239
Discussion regarding ordinance amending Part 6, General Offenses, Chapter 694, Weeds and

03:22:34.239 --> 03:22:41.360
Grass of the Codified Ordinances, by adding a new section, 694.08, to be entitled Vegetation

03:22:41.360 --> 03:22:48.200
and Managed Natural Landscape, and amending Chapter 694.01, Nuisance Declared, for the

03:22:48.200 --> 03:23:00.920
Thank you, Your Honor. This was up for discussion at the last Committee of the Whole. The proposed

03:23:00.920 --> 03:23:08.219
ordinance identifies natural landscape options for homeowners and for property owners. City

03:23:08.219 --> 03:23:14.139
staff is requesting to move forward with this. It provides us some flexibility, allowing

03:23:14.139 --> 03:23:20.739
for Pollinators allowing us to have various plantscapes in the same time giving us the

03:23:20.739 --> 03:23:30.559
ability to help regulate those. So staff is requesting moving this on to the December

03:23:30.559 --> 03:23:38.760
council meeting for first reading. So move. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Seller

03:23:38.760 --> 03:23:43.840
seconded by Alderman Shadle to move this ordinance on for first reading. Is there discussion

03:23:43.840 --> 03:23:45.920
on the Alderman Sanders.

03:23:45.920 --> 03:23:49.440
Yeah, how soon are we anticipating

03:23:49.440 --> 03:23:54.639
on moving on this particular ordinance?

03:23:54.639 --> 03:23:57.280
The motion was to move it to the next regularly scheduled.

03:23:57.280 --> 03:23:58.000
Oh, that's what it is?

03:23:58.000 --> 03:23:58.500
Yeah.

03:23:58.500 --> 03:23:59.000
OK.

03:23:59.000 --> 03:23:59.959
All right, I got you.

03:23:59.959 --> 03:24:00.600
OK.

03:24:00.600 --> 03:24:04.559
No, I have no discussion about who's going to do that.

03:24:04.559 --> 03:24:05.600
Alderman Klemm?

03:24:05.600 --> 03:24:06.959
Yes.

03:24:06.959 --> 03:24:11.319
If I could, I was happy that they brought the pictures

03:24:11.319 --> 03:24:18.280
I brought some slides for the different places of the different grasses and flowers.

03:24:18.280 --> 03:24:25.260
I'll show them next time, but I brought a couple slides for Curt if we needed to look

03:24:25.260 --> 03:24:26.260
at them.

03:24:26.260 --> 03:24:32.399
I think one of the problems is, if you remember how beautiful the roundabout was before it

03:24:32.399 --> 03:24:34.920
was changed to grass.

03:24:34.920 --> 03:24:38.659
Never mowed, never taken care of, never anything done.

03:24:38.659 --> 03:24:43.780
My concern is you are going to see that in people's yards. And I brought a picture of

03:24:43.780 --> 03:24:49.260
a couple of fences, but we don't need to look at it. But I look forward to some discussion

03:24:49.260 --> 03:24:52.260
either before then or then.

03:24:52.260 --> 03:24:56.700
This has been initiated more by Public Works, correct? This is not a, hey, you have got

03:24:56.700 --> 03:24:59.700
long grasses. Right. So I just want to make sure we are not.

03:24:59.700 --> 03:25:00.700
No, no.

03:25:00.700 --> 03:25:06.100
My department is more than ready to cut some tall grass, so don't worry about that.

03:25:06.100 --> 03:25:12.340
No, no, no. I understand that 100 percent, but I know what we can come up with, too.

03:25:12.340 --> 03:25:14.340
Alderman Stacey?

03:25:14.340 --> 03:25:22.940
Yes. This ordinance did not say anything about native plants. So, I'm asking for clarity.

03:25:22.940 --> 03:25:32.659
Is this for native plants, like what we were given? Or is this just sprinkle some seeds

03:25:32.659 --> 03:25:33.659
out and let them grow?

03:25:33.659 --> 03:25:37.120
Mayor Boyer?

03:25:37.120 --> 03:25:39.799
We can get that for you.

03:25:39.799 --> 03:25:41.440
Excuse me?

03:25:41.440 --> 03:25:42.600
We can get that for you.

03:25:42.600 --> 03:25:44.120
What does that mean?

03:25:44.120 --> 03:25:47.239
We can provide that for you with the council packet

03:25:47.239 --> 03:25:49.319
before the next meeting.

03:25:50.819 --> 03:25:51.659
This isn't voting.

03:25:51.659 --> 03:25:53.399
A definition of native species.

03:25:53.399 --> 03:25:56.479
I understand, but I asked if this ordinance

03:25:56.479 --> 03:26:00.200
was talking about native plants.

03:26:00.200 --> 03:26:01.879
Oh, yes.

03:26:01.879 --> 03:26:02.719
Yes.

03:26:02.719 --> 03:26:04.239
You know, I don't get what's funny.

03:26:04.239 --> 03:26:09.239
I don't get what's tickled about my question.

03:26:14.190 --> 03:26:21.510
if there's no further discussion you had something so I did get a an email after

03:26:21.510 --> 03:26:28.350
this was referred to this discussion further discussion here Randy who was one

03:26:28.350 --> 03:26:34.629
who put this forward here I'll suggesting that we add a definition of

03:26:34.629 --> 03:26:49.659
native plant things all change that next thank you I'm glad I made sense to

03:26:49.659 --> 03:26:58.510
somebody and we will move on to item number do we need a vote on that mayor

03:26:58.510 --> 03:27:01.510
no we don't need a vote yeah moving forward because this just says

03:27:01.510 --> 03:27:05.110
discussion I don't want because it's specifically on the agenda is

03:27:05.110 --> 03:27:08.790
discussion only I don't want to take a vote because we haven't announced we

03:27:08.790 --> 03:27:15.629
didn't poster for that yeah I think I'd rather just have it put on the agenda

03:27:15.629 --> 03:27:45.629
For first reading and that they can move it vote to move it forward from there did you have something else the reason public works was requesting this change is because we have issues in the right away where people are putting plantings that are growing up beyond visibility standards or we can't push snow back things like that it's it's really a maintenance cleanup issue we don't have any mechanism right now to enforce it and so we're trying to enforce

03:27:45.629 --> 03:27:51.709
First at the right-of-ways, stay cleaned up and mowed well, and also allow for these native

03:27:51.709 --> 03:27:54.090
plantings within landscapes.

03:27:54.090 --> 03:28:00.309
So it's really just a cleanup process because we're getting into a season where we need

03:28:00.309 --> 03:28:04.950
to be able to push snow back and we need to be able to control the height of corners and

03:28:04.950 --> 03:28:10.690
intersections where plantings are to make sure that we have visibility.

03:28:10.690 --> 03:28:14.209
Okay, so we'll move on to item 28.

03:28:14.209 --> 03:28:16.010
could you please read the next discussion?

03:28:17.170 --> 03:28:20.450
Discussion regarding evaluating updates to city ordinances

03:28:20.450 --> 03:28:22.770
requiring drug testing for elected officials

03:28:22.770 --> 03:28:25.010
and director level employees in the city.

03:28:26.250 --> 03:28:27.090
Alderman Monroe.

03:28:28.290 --> 03:28:29.649
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

03:28:29.649 --> 03:28:34.649
I think as a city that hires and does drug testing

03:28:35.729 --> 03:28:39.090
on all new hires, that it's important

03:28:39.090 --> 03:28:42.489
that we as community leaders set the example.

03:28:42.489 --> 03:28:47.489
and basically provide for an environment that's safe,

03:28:48.930 --> 03:28:52.889
healthy, well-being of all employees are covered

03:28:52.889 --> 03:28:55.370
and that drug and alcohol abuse

03:28:57.209 --> 03:29:00.090
can have significant impacts on decision-making

03:29:00.090 --> 03:29:04.969
as well as understanding of things in the council.

03:29:04.969 --> 03:29:07.889
And a lot of cities have this type of an ordinance

03:29:07.889 --> 03:29:09.889
already in place and I think it's important

03:29:09.889 --> 03:29:12.950
that we set the example as leaders.

03:29:14.649 --> 03:29:19.649
From the standpoint of city, we've had instances

03:29:19.649 --> 03:29:26.280
We've had instances where people have tested positive after an event or an accident of

03:29:26.280 --> 03:29:32.899
some sort and I think it's important that we start to reel that in.

03:29:32.899 --> 03:29:39.559
Drug use in the workplace is never a good thing, it's even more so in a city like ours

03:29:39.559 --> 03:29:44.340
and I think that by setting the example it will be easier to make changes down the road

03:29:44.340 --> 03:29:50.579
Overall, as the city goes for all the departments, um, you know, and I'm ready

03:29:50.579 --> 03:29:54.540
to kind of kick it off. I don't know if Alderman Sanders would like to add

03:29:54.540 --> 03:29:58.420
anything to that, but you know, I think, I think it's very, very important that

03:29:58.420 --> 03:30:05.340
we, um, you know, at least start in the direction of testing, you know, so that

03:30:05.340 --> 03:30:09.860
we can protect the citizens and the property of the community at large. Mr.

03:30:09.860 --> 03:30:19.780
Sanders. Yeah with something of that significance to have the citizens of

03:30:19.780 --> 03:30:26.459
Freeport realize that we're here to serve them, that we want to do it

03:30:26.459 --> 03:30:36.260
honorably, we don't want to be under some kind of a hit, I can't say it, I got so

03:30:36.260 --> 03:30:41.979
I don't have many ways to put it, but we don't want them to feel that we've been hypnotized

03:30:41.979 --> 03:30:49.399
within our own council to the point where we can't make decisions affirmately because

03:30:49.399 --> 03:30:52.219
of the state of mind that we're in.

03:30:52.219 --> 03:31:00.299
I feel very confident when I know that the guy that's working in capacity of the city,

03:31:00.299 --> 03:31:13.020
He's competent, he's not inundated by drugs, drinking, smoking, whatever the case may be,

03:31:13.020 --> 03:31:20.700
that we can assure all of our employees have everything going for them to keep a liability

03:31:20.700 --> 03:31:26.100
from factoring in while on the job performing duties and making decisions.

03:31:26.100 --> 03:31:31.979
So I think this, because of the fact this is the norm, it's not something that anyone

03:31:31.979 --> 03:31:40.299
is pulling out of their head, it is a norm that we get in line putting our employees

03:31:40.299 --> 03:31:46.899
and staff and elected officials and people of that nature in that same, under that same

03:31:46.899 --> 03:31:47.899
umbrella.

03:31:47.899 --> 03:31:53.780
So I think it is something that we should look at, it hasn't been considered all the

03:31:53.780 --> 03:31:54.780
Huffines.

03:31:54.780 --> 03:31:55.780
Thank you.

03:31:55.780 --> 03:31:56.780
Thank you.

03:31:56.780 --> 03:31:57.780
Thank you.

03:31:57.780 --> 03:31:58.780
Thank you.

03:31:58.780 --> 03:31:59.780
Thank you.

03:31:59.780 --> 03:32:02.579
we should make a move forward with

03:32:02.579 --> 03:32:06.459
and I think the city should look into it.

03:32:06.459 --> 03:32:09.739
We should look very closely about it,

03:32:09.739 --> 03:32:13.139
look into these kinds of things because we don't know.

03:32:14.100 --> 03:32:16.799
And that's the reason why these things happen,

03:32:16.799 --> 03:32:18.780
these kind of drug tests happen

03:32:18.780 --> 03:32:21.879
because we don't know you like that, you know,

03:32:21.879 --> 03:32:22.719
that kind of thing.

03:32:22.719 --> 03:32:26.379
So until you show up on a test lab or something like that,

03:32:26.379 --> 03:32:29.340
then we can understand who you are, you know.

03:32:29.780 --> 03:32:30.780
So.

03:32:30.780 --> 03:32:38.059
Doesn't the employee handbook already address that, where they can be drug tested?

03:32:38.059 --> 03:32:44.780
Yes, Madam Mayor, the policy of the city is that all employees are subject to random air

03:32:44.780 --> 03:32:46.739
analysis.

03:32:46.739 --> 03:32:48.379
So it already is in place.

03:32:48.379 --> 03:32:53.899
So my question, I suppose, to the two of you would be, if this is pointed at an elected

03:32:53.899 --> 03:32:58.420
official, I mean, drug test me all day long, I don't care.

03:32:58.420 --> 03:32:59.420
But what's the outcome?

03:32:59.420 --> 03:33:01.379
what do you want to happen as a result

03:33:01.379 --> 03:33:03.600
because you can't have someone removed from office

03:33:03.600 --> 03:33:07.700
because they fail a drug test, it doesn't happen.

03:33:07.700 --> 03:33:12.700
So what are you hoping to have for, what's the goal?

03:33:12.959 --> 03:33:17.579
Well, my thing is, it's not open up for discussion

03:33:17.579 --> 03:33:20.139
with you, Mayor, at this time.

03:33:20.139 --> 03:33:24.379
We should, we just putting it out there,

03:33:25.979 --> 03:33:29.100
let the council think about it, talk about it.

03:33:29.420 --> 03:33:31.420
and

03:33:32.620 --> 03:33:34.620
John, and I'm going to bring it to the next reading because

03:33:36.100 --> 03:33:38.100
until we understand how we're going to go through the process

03:33:40.479 --> 03:33:42.479
of doing this particular thing, this kind of mechanism needs to

03:33:42.479 --> 03:33:44.479
be put in place.

03:33:46.639 --> 03:33:48.639
Why hasn't it not been put in place is the question.

03:33:51.719 --> 03:33:53.719
We are not running an honor system that I can detect, which

03:33:54.899 --> 03:33:56.899
we're supposed to be, but I can't detect it half the time.

03:33:59.420 --> 03:34:01.739
and the judge of whether or not we should be

03:34:01.739 --> 03:34:03.420
under that kind of scrutiny.

03:34:03.420 --> 03:34:08.219
And if we're just gonna allow other communities

03:34:08.219 --> 03:34:11.739
go through the process, then what keeps Freeport

03:34:11.739 --> 03:34:13.100
from going through the process?

03:34:13.100 --> 03:34:16.739
If it's already in place, we're not utilizing it

03:34:16.739 --> 03:34:20.379
and we're not going through the process with it, so.

03:34:20.379 --> 03:34:21.979
Okay, Alderman Monroe, did you wanna?

03:34:21.979 --> 03:34:22.799
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

03:34:22.799 --> 03:34:26.100
I think where I was headed with this is,

03:34:26.100 --> 03:34:33.559
you know we do have you know a general drug policy online in our handbook you

03:34:33.559 --> 03:34:38.020
know where I was headed with this was as an example as elected officials and

03:34:38.020 --> 03:34:41.819
directors that you know we would have an annual drug test and that would be my my

03:34:41.819 --> 03:34:47.739
motion is to to to move forward with an annual test in January for all elected

03:34:47.739 --> 03:34:53.299
officials and anybody taking a seat after they've been elected to office you

03:34:53.299 --> 03:35:00.280
you know because it is important that we set the example and we are the leaders of each

03:35:00.280 --> 03:35:06.579
of these departments this community and it's important that we maintain that transparency

03:35:06.579 --> 03:35:11.120
and allow our public to understand that you know we are putting our best foot forward.

03:35:11.120 --> 03:35:17.200
We are setting the example within the city of Freeport and you know I think the cost

03:35:17.200 --> 03:35:22.340
of it is negligible compared to other things that we're doing and you know from that standpoint

03:35:22.340 --> 03:35:27.340
it would set the example that not only are we willing to do it

03:35:27.719 --> 03:35:29.959
but that you're eligible for it as well

03:35:29.959 --> 03:35:31.600
as an employee of the city of Freeport.

03:35:31.600 --> 03:35:36.600
So that would be my motion is that we would have a,

03:35:36.639 --> 03:35:38.879
have it drawn up so that we're automatically tested

03:35:38.879 --> 03:35:40.680
every January by the end of the month

03:35:40.680 --> 03:35:43.360
and move forward from there.

03:35:43.360 --> 03:35:45.659
When you say everybody, who are you employing?

03:35:47.040 --> 03:35:49.500
Elected, you know, all of us sitting in this room

03:35:49.500 --> 03:35:57.139
at these tables, director level and above, alderman, and mayor, and so forth.

03:35:57.139 --> 03:36:07.040
Okay, so there's a motion on the floor. Okay, you want to address it?

03:36:07.040 --> 03:36:12.379
Your motion, just to clarify though, your motion was just to, is it to basically direct

03:36:12.379 --> 03:36:20.280
staff to look into this and draft an ordinance? There because, which is fine, right? There

03:36:20.280 --> 03:36:25.559
to say hey let's let's keep working in looking into this there the only reason

03:36:25.559 --> 03:36:30.280
why I asked for the clarification is because I need to look into this for the

03:36:30.280 --> 03:36:36.020
legality of it um there you mentioned that there were other communities if you

03:36:36.020 --> 03:36:39.819
could share those with me just so I can kind of you know reach out to them and

03:36:39.819 --> 03:36:44.360
kind of see you know what they've done there I'm unaware again not that on the

03:36:44.360 --> 03:36:49.440
end all be all there I'm unaware of other communities requiring elected

03:36:49.440 --> 03:36:52.159
and the officials to be drug tested.

03:36:52.159 --> 03:36:55.920
I know that there was a, many years ago,

03:36:55.920 --> 03:36:59.399
there was the General Assembly, you know,

03:36:59.399 --> 03:37:03.479
there was a bill proposed to require House representatives

03:37:03.479 --> 03:37:07.200
and Senate members to be drug tested as a part of being

03:37:07.200 --> 03:37:09.159
able to file nomination papers.

03:37:09.159 --> 03:37:11.040
That bill was shot down.

03:37:11.040 --> 03:37:13.680
It didn't pass there.

03:37:13.680 --> 03:37:16.579
My concerns looking with just doing this, and again,

03:37:16.579 --> 03:37:19.040
I don't have a problem if this is what you guys want to do.

03:37:49.040 --> 03:37:51.520
and I don't know the answer off the top of my head.

03:37:51.520 --> 03:37:56.520
But his motion was to drug test every elected official

03:37:57.600 --> 03:38:01.479
and director here every January.

03:38:01.479 --> 03:38:02.479
That was the motion.

03:38:05.760 --> 03:38:07.200
I think to manager Boyer's point,

03:38:07.200 --> 03:38:11.319
I think all employees are subject to drug testing.

03:38:11.319 --> 03:38:15.479
I think you're narrowing, getting a little more specific

03:38:15.479 --> 03:38:18.000
in saying that, hey, cause right now it's kind of random.

03:38:18.000 --> 03:38:19.000
Huffines.

03:38:19.000 --> 03:38:25.200
I think it's up to the city to decide or the manager to decide when a drug test of department

03:38:25.200 --> 03:38:27.600
heads might be necessary there.

03:38:27.600 --> 03:38:31.520
You're saying, you're trying to narrow that scope and say, hey, department heads are going

03:38:31.520 --> 03:38:37.000
to get drug tested along with every elected official every January 1.

03:38:37.000 --> 03:38:43.600
You know, I mean, we as elected leaders and department heads are using our facilities.

03:38:43.600 --> 03:38:45.159
We're using our vehicles.

03:38:45.159 --> 03:38:50.920
We're doing things in the daily activities of our jobs and it's important that we, you

03:38:50.920 --> 03:38:55.959
know, do set the example and that we, you know, it is for the overall health of the

03:38:55.959 --> 03:38:56.959
city.

03:38:56.959 --> 03:39:00.120
I think it would, it makes a lot of sense, you know, to move forward with something like

03:39:00.120 --> 03:39:01.120
this.

03:39:01.120 --> 03:39:05.500
I understand the legality, legalities of it all, but you know, I think, you know, kicking

03:39:05.500 --> 03:39:09.959
somebody out of office probably isn't, but you know, there are options to get people

03:39:09.959 --> 03:39:10.959
help.

03:39:10.959 --> 03:39:15.639
Languages in the employee handbook.

03:39:15.639 --> 03:39:19.079
It doesn't say you're terminated.

03:39:19.079 --> 03:39:46.000
I wouldn't say you're terminated upon a positive test, but you know, there are those types of things. I think from a standpoint, it does make a lot of sense, you know, from, from, you know, the, the handbooks, kind of teeth, if you will, that if we're all going to abide by the same rules they are, I don't know of an older person or an elected official or a department head that's ever been drug tested and in my time as an older person. So,

03:39:46.000 --> 03:39:49.440
So really what you want is an order to reflect it.

03:39:57.709 --> 03:40:02.350
Alderman Parker. I don't have no problem with the employees when they're out there driving our vehicles,

03:40:02.629 --> 03:40:09.350
doing the work in a dangerous situation, being drug tested. But drug testing, the alderman, is asinine.

03:40:09.350 --> 03:40:15.309
I've been drug tested twice, once when I went in the military, once when I become a cop. Other than that,

03:40:15.309 --> 03:40:19.950
I never have. I'm totally against it, and I'm not going to do it. So

03:40:19.950 --> 03:40:25.829
Okay, so we do have a motion on the floor would be to, I'm guessing you're

03:40:25.829 --> 03:40:28.870
tasking Attorney DeZito to come up with an ordinance, right? Yeah, I would like

03:40:28.870 --> 03:40:35.030
that. Yes, please. Okay, so we have a motion. Is there a second? So we have a

03:40:35.030 --> 03:40:41.069
second made by Alderman Sanders. If there's no further discussion, Madam

03:40:41.069 --> 03:40:46.989
Clerk, do we take a vote on that? Yeah, this is just to task me with looking

03:40:46.989 --> 03:40:47.989
Miller.

03:40:47.989 --> 03:41:03.270
We're not bringing anything in new, I just want to get that out of everybody's mind.

03:41:03.270 --> 03:41:15.030
It is something that just has not been activated or been used according to the mayor stating

03:41:15.030 --> 03:41:17.829
and I, and I think that's a good thing that we got something

03:41:17.829 --> 03:41:22.829
like that in place, and if you want to object to that,

03:41:24.829 --> 03:41:29.389
that's on you, but my thing is we're not setting

03:41:29.389 --> 03:41:32.149
a new standard if it's already in place.

03:41:32.149 --> 03:41:34.729
If someone has already been asked,

03:41:34.729 --> 03:41:38.909
I know that this has happened out in the field

03:41:38.909 --> 03:41:43.909
of construction workers making accusation of someone.

03:41:45.030 --> 03:41:47.889
that may have been consumed by drugs,

03:41:49.030 --> 03:41:54.030
by one of our elected officials or directors or whoever

03:41:54.629 --> 03:41:56.430
have made that statement.

03:41:56.430 --> 03:41:59.510
So I know that it has been done.

03:41:59.510 --> 03:42:02.409
There's nothing, I don't know if we got it in writing

03:42:02.409 --> 03:42:04.670
or anything like that, but I think it resulted

03:42:04.670 --> 03:42:08.989
in someone's termination here at the city.

03:42:08.989 --> 03:42:13.989
So if that's not correct, then I stand corrected.

03:42:15.030 --> 03:42:20.350
but if that if that if that conversation happened then we should look into the

03:42:20.350 --> 03:42:25.469
fact that this thing should be taken at face value all the way across the board.

03:42:25.469 --> 03:42:30.909
Alderman Shadle, did you have something? I just wanted to say that you are in fact

03:42:30.909 --> 03:42:37.309
wrong again. Okay. The added portion of this would be the elected officials. It's

03:42:37.309 --> 03:42:42.629
it doesn't matter. Well you said you weren't reinventing anything and you

03:42:42.629 --> 03:42:43.629
No.

03:42:43.629 --> 03:42:44.629
Changing anything.

03:42:44.629 --> 03:42:45.629
No.

03:42:45.629 --> 03:42:46.629
And in fact, you are.

03:42:46.629 --> 03:42:47.629
Well, if I am.

03:42:47.629 --> 03:42:48.629
Okay, so we have.

03:42:48.629 --> 03:42:49.629
That's your opinion.

03:42:49.629 --> 03:42:53.629
We have a first and second motion and a second to task Attorney Zito to draft an ordinance.

03:42:53.629 --> 03:42:57.629
Madam Clerk, would you please take the role on this particular discussion?

03:42:57.629 --> 03:42:58.629
Stacy?

03:42:58.629 --> 03:42:59.629
Wait.

03:42:59.629 --> 03:43:00.629
Aye.

03:43:00.629 --> 03:43:01.629
I'm sorry.

03:43:01.629 --> 03:43:02.629
Sorry, wait.

03:43:02.629 --> 03:43:03.629
I'm sorry.

03:43:03.629 --> 03:43:04.629
I didn't see your hand.

03:43:04.629 --> 03:43:05.629
So, okay.

03:43:05.629 --> 03:43:08.629
Is it already part of whatever ordinance you think it is?

03:43:08.629 --> 03:43:09.629
Employees.

03:43:09.629 --> 03:43:10.629
Okay.

03:43:10.629 --> 03:43:22.629
Okay. And if you're concerned about older people and elected officials, is there something in the ordinance that says if, you know, somebody's older person A shows up inebriated, they'll be removed?

03:43:22.629 --> 03:43:23.129
No.

03:43:23.129 --> 03:43:23.629
Oh.

03:43:23.629 --> 03:43:32.620
That's why I was questioning what's your end goal. I don't know. Director Richter?

03:43:32.620 --> 03:43:36.620
I'd just like to clarify a little bit.

03:43:36.620 --> 03:43:43.620
and if I'm wrong, attorney Zito, the handbook I believe is due to reasonable suspicion.

03:43:43.620 --> 03:43:47.620
It's not a random pool for like myself. I'm not in a random pool.

03:43:47.620 --> 03:43:49.620
I just wanted to clarify that.

03:43:49.620 --> 03:43:50.620
Okay.

03:43:50.620 --> 03:43:57.260
Madam Clerk, will you please take the roll?

03:43:57.260 --> 03:43:58.260
Stacy.

03:43:58.260 --> 03:43:59.260
Aye.

03:43:59.260 --> 03:44:00.260
Shadle.

03:44:00.260 --> 03:44:01.260
No.

03:44:01.260 --> 03:44:02.260
Sanders.

03:44:02.260 --> 03:44:03.260
Aye.

03:44:03.260 --> 03:44:04.260
Sellers.

03:44:04.260 --> 03:44:05.260
No.

03:44:05.260 --> 03:44:06.260
Klemm.

03:44:06.260 --> 03:44:07.260
No.

03:44:07.260 --> 03:44:08.260
Monroe.

03:44:08.260 --> 03:44:09.260
Aye.

03:44:09.260 --> 03:44:17.260
Parker? No. One, two, three, four, five noes to three yeas. It fails.

03:44:17.260 --> 03:44:24.219
We'll move on to item number 29. Could you please read this discussion? Discussion

03:44:24.219 --> 03:44:28.360
regarding investigation into unauthorized disposal of city documents

03:44:28.360 --> 03:44:33.920
in the Freeport City Cemetery and purpose of that disposal. Alderman

03:44:33.920 --> 03:44:38.940
Monroe. Thank you, Madam Mayor. It's come to my attention as an older person for

03:44:38.940 --> 03:44:47.780
and multiple people now, that there was at some point in time in the 2010 to 2020 range,

03:44:47.780 --> 03:44:53.819
at least, that there were holes dug in the city's sedimentary and documents were dumped

03:44:53.819 --> 03:44:54.819
into those holes.

03:44:54.819 --> 03:44:59.860
And we're not talking small amounts of documents, we're talking very large amounts of documents.

03:44:59.860 --> 03:45:12.200
My question is, knowing how documents are typically disposed of from being in classified environments

03:45:12.200 --> 03:45:18.500
as well as other environments in the military and since being in the military, that appropriate

03:45:18.500 --> 03:45:22.020
behavior would be to shred those documents, dispose of them, burn them, whatever it may

03:45:22.020 --> 03:45:26.979
be. It's not to dig a hole in the city cemetery and dump a bunch of documents in and then

03:45:26.979 --> 03:45:35.940
Call it Good. The people that have approached me with this information, I believe wholeheartedly,

03:45:35.940 --> 03:45:44.819
and I believe it's important that we at least look into if information was dumped, and if

03:45:44.819 --> 03:45:51.760
that information was dumped, was it done so as a standard practice, or if it was done

03:45:51.760 --> 03:45:58.719
and so to cover something up or if, you know, information that somebody has out there could

03:45:58.719 --> 03:46:02.120
be gathered from those documents.

03:46:02.120 --> 03:46:06.479
Not knowing the details behind it, I felt it was important enough to come to the city

03:46:06.479 --> 03:46:14.360
and at least have the conversation so that the public is understanding of what was, you

03:46:14.360 --> 03:46:15.360
know, put there.

03:46:15.360 --> 03:46:19.280
And I think it's, it's, it makes sense to at least take a look.

03:46:19.280 --> 03:46:22.159
We don't need to necessarily go digging in the cemetery.

03:46:22.159 --> 03:46:28.399
There's ways to use ground penetrating radar and other methods that are easily done without

03:46:28.399 --> 03:46:33.040
disturbing any of the vegetation or soil and determine if the documents are there.

03:46:33.040 --> 03:46:38.360
And then from that point, then at least have a conversation of what the next steps are.

03:46:38.360 --> 03:46:42.079
Depending on how long they've been there, they may be in various states of decay.

03:46:42.079 --> 03:46:49.120
So it may not be worth going any further, but I think it's at least worth the conversation

03:46:49.120 --> 03:46:51.459
to figure out why it was put there.

03:46:52.479 --> 03:46:56.959
The city would like to maybe share with the older people,

03:46:56.959 --> 03:47:01.200
you know, what the reasoning behind it was.

03:47:01.200 --> 03:47:02.799
But I felt like it was important enough

03:47:02.799 --> 03:47:04.280
to kind of come in front of the council,

03:47:04.280 --> 03:47:07.360
have the conversation, it shouldn't be too difficult,

03:47:07.360 --> 03:47:08.799
and go from there.

03:47:08.799 --> 03:47:09.639
Manager Boyer.

03:47:12.639 --> 03:47:14.719
Thank you, Ms. Olderman.

03:47:14.719 --> 03:47:17.520
The situation at the cemetery,

03:47:17.520 --> 03:47:24.000
We interviewed the Sextons for the last 20 years, and both of whom said there was never any incident that the

03:47:24.879 --> 03:47:29.020
of that kind.

03:47:29.020 --> 03:47:30.780
Alderman Klemm?

03:47:30.780 --> 03:47:34.299
Between 10 and 20, that appears to be a good number of years.

03:47:35.100 --> 03:47:41.020
Do you have any idea what administration it was or who you could go back to to find out and see?

03:47:42.379 --> 03:47:46.940
I was on all those years. I don't believe I wasn't on from 18 on. You were there then.

03:47:46.940 --> 03:47:55.540
but I find that to be entirely ridiculous. Thank you. Yeah three of those years are

03:47:55.540 --> 03:48:04.420
under my seat. I have no knowledge of any of it. So is there, so I understand

03:48:04.420 --> 03:48:08.420
everybody's reluctance and I understand everybody's position but is it not worth

03:48:08.420 --> 03:48:13.219
at least looking into? Would you? Well I think that's what Manager Boyer did. Yes

03:48:13.219 --> 03:48:19.079
Yes, we looked into it and we interviewed the sextants that were there at the time and they

03:48:19.079 --> 03:48:23.940
have both said that there was never anything interred in the cemetery matching the description

03:48:23.940 --> 03:48:26.299
that you made being some kind of documents.

03:48:26.299 --> 03:48:27.299
Who are the sextants?

03:48:27.299 --> 03:48:28.979
I have no idea who they are.

03:48:28.979 --> 03:48:31.139
One is Todd Marsh.

03:48:31.139 --> 03:48:35.659
He was our sextant for many years and the previous sextant, I don't know him personally,

03:48:35.659 --> 03:48:37.979
but he was interviewed also.

03:48:37.979 --> 03:48:39.459
What did the sextants do?

03:48:39.459 --> 03:48:40.459
I'm confused.

03:48:40.459 --> 03:48:42.579
The sextants in charge of the cemetery.

03:48:42.579 --> 03:48:51.760
from working with the state archivist burial of documents I know is an

03:48:51.760 --> 03:48:56.600
acceptable disposal method I don't I don't know what you're referring to here

03:48:56.600 --> 03:49:04.040
but I know burial is acceptable when we had wet records from a flood that the

03:49:04.040 --> 03:49:12.479
shred people would not take them when they were wet although you're not

03:49:12.479 --> 03:49:16.000
Not implying that, you're just saying that would be a normal correction.

03:49:16.000 --> 03:49:18.639
that would be a normal correct that's acceptable it's an acceptable method

03:49:18.639 --> 03:49:24.520
yeah whether this happened or not I don't know but Alderman Sanders yeah I

03:49:24.520 --> 03:49:31.940
just wanted to say that um we're not in a position to investigate it with the

03:49:31.940 --> 03:49:38.899
biases that we might be carrying simply because it's in our agenda but you got to

03:49:38.899 --> 03:49:39.899
and I.

03:49:39.899 --> 03:49:45.899
I want to remember the city of Freeport was like a revolving door with elected salary

03:49:45.899 --> 03:49:53.020
positions, officials, many different administrations and things of that nature.

03:49:53.020 --> 03:50:01.139
So any of the things that are on this agenda could have occurred, but it's not our position

03:50:01.139 --> 03:50:10.500
to state our opinion on something that we can't validate as council, nor can we say that no

03:50:10.500 --> 03:50:16.139
one that works for the city has any knowledge about any such things.

03:50:16.139 --> 03:50:28.139
So we can't say that and for us to not be scrutinizing the whole proposal that was being

03:50:28.139 --> 03:50:37.020
made about investigating, looking into these kinds of things, for whoever might be objecting

03:50:37.020 --> 03:50:44.620
to it, don't know the full scope of all the details from the time that it was done or

03:50:44.620 --> 03:50:49.540
whatever was done, it has just been brought to our attention.

03:50:49.540 --> 03:50:53.260
We can't just put a date on it.

03:50:53.260 --> 03:50:55.340
We just can't do that.

03:50:55.340 --> 03:50:56.340
Miller.

03:50:56.340 --> 03:50:59.180
I would just like to respond to that.

03:50:59.180 --> 03:51:02.219
If you have something you'd like to share with me, I'd be happy to act on it.

03:51:02.219 --> 03:51:03.700
All in the club.

03:51:03.700 --> 03:51:08.500
Yeah, I just wanted to say, why don't you reveal your sources and we can go talk to

03:51:08.500 --> 03:51:09.500
them.

03:51:09.500 --> 03:51:18.180
So you can put your hands on them like you did me go to the police department, but they

03:51:18.180 --> 03:51:19.180
won't do it.

03:51:19.180 --> 03:51:20.180
Okay.

03:51:20.180 --> 03:51:21.180
Okay.

03:51:21.180 --> 03:51:22.180
Okay.

03:51:22.180 --> 03:51:23.180
Is there any other discussion concerning these?

03:51:23.180 --> 03:51:24.180
Yes, ma'am.

03:51:24.180 --> 03:51:54.180
I would like to make a motion that we at least look into examining a little further once again very small cost to look and see if we and I will get a better location so that we have that location but we will we'll at least get that together and have the conversation and see if it's worthwhile I don't know what the cost of ground penetrating radar is but I've seen it used in the past and it does work very very well

03:51:54.180 --> 03:51:55.180
Fowler.

03:51:55.180 --> 03:52:00.379
So if there was something there, it would show up, even if it wasn't a state of decay.

03:52:00.379 --> 03:52:06.260
I don't know that, but it seems pretty odd to me that this people would come up and say

03:52:06.260 --> 03:52:09.370
this for no reason.

03:52:09.370 --> 03:52:10.370
Darren?

03:52:10.370 --> 03:52:15.450
Yeah, we have GPR and we'd be happy to investigate something if you get a location.

03:52:15.450 --> 03:52:19.409
Okay, so what actually is your motion?

03:52:19.409 --> 03:52:21.090
That we look into it further.

03:52:21.090 --> 03:52:22.090
Okay.

03:52:22.090 --> 03:52:38.690
I don't think there's any harm in that, you know, and at least, you know, validate or invalidate, I don't know what we'll find, but I know two people that came forward and said something about it, and they don't want to say anything because they, you know, they don't want anybody to come back on them.

03:52:39.930 --> 03:52:41.290
Okay, so there's a motion on the floor.

03:52:43.409 --> 03:52:45.049
I find it funny, you find it funny.

03:52:45.129 --> 03:52:46.090
Do we have a second?

03:52:47.729 --> 03:52:48.250
I second.

03:52:48.250 --> 03:52:59.750
Okay, so we have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sanders to look further into examining the validation of the allocations. I don't know.

03:52:59.750 --> 03:53:03.250
So, am I correct on what I just?

03:53:03.250 --> 03:53:11.750
Sure. If you'd like, I'll come back at a later date with a location and a map and put a red X on it for people so that it's easier to look.

03:53:11.750 --> 03:53:14.250
We have a motion.

03:53:14.250 --> 03:53:24.360
Mm-hmm. So we have a motion to I mean this is just basically like a consensus

03:53:24.360 --> 03:53:28.579
but given the fact that I don't know how a voice vote is going to play out as far

03:53:28.579 --> 03:53:32.020
as I got a consensus as to whether or not the council wants to look into this

03:53:32.020 --> 03:53:35.780
further or not look into this further I just take off so do we want to look into

03:53:35.780 --> 03:53:40.299
this further that's the that's the question madam clerk would you please

03:53:40.299 --> 03:53:41.299
Please take the roll.

03:53:41.299 --> 03:53:42.299
Stacy?

03:53:42.299 --> 03:53:43.299
Aye.

03:53:43.299 --> 03:53:44.299
Shadle?

03:53:44.299 --> 03:53:45.299
No.

03:53:45.299 --> 03:53:46.299
Sanders?

03:53:46.299 --> 03:53:47.299
Aye.

03:53:47.299 --> 03:53:48.299
Sellers?

03:53:48.299 --> 03:53:54.549
No.

03:53:54.549 --> 03:54:10.110
Klemm?

03:54:10.110 --> 03:54:12.479
No.

03:54:12.479 --> 03:54:13.479
Monroe?

03:54:13.479 --> 03:54:14.479
Unreal.

03:54:14.479 --> 03:54:19.959
Aye.

03:54:19.959 --> 03:54:20.959
Simmons is absent.

03:54:20.959 --> 03:54:21.959
Parker?

03:54:21.959 --> 03:54:22.959
No.

03:54:22.959 --> 03:54:23.959
Four?

03:54:23.959 --> 03:54:24.959
Wait a second.

03:54:24.959 --> 03:54:25.959
One, two, three to four.

03:54:25.959 --> 03:54:26.959
I always state that wrong.

03:54:26.959 --> 03:54:27.959
I'm sorry.

03:54:27.959 --> 03:54:28.959
The motion fails.

03:54:28.959 --> 03:54:29.959
Am I wrong, Mayor?

03:54:29.959 --> 03:54:35.000
One, two, three, four wrong, four nos, one, two, three yeas.

03:54:35.000 --> 03:54:45.219
is here, can she vote? Oh, but we've had this situation before. I have Klemm, Parker, Shadle,

03:54:45.219 --> 03:54:59.309
and Sellers as nos. Monroe, Stacy, and Sanders as yes. Seven. Failing three to four. Is that

03:54:59.309 --> 03:55:09.280
okay? Okay, we'll move on to item number 30, which is another discussion. Could you please

03:55:09.280 --> 03:55:18.399
please read this. I think we moved this to the calm, Madam Mayor. I'm sorry, yes, I

03:55:18.399 --> 03:55:24.000
meant to say 31. 31? Okay, my mistake. Discussion regarding concerns related to the Community

03:55:24.000 --> 03:55:30.600
Development Block Grant Housing Rehabilitation recipient for 1010 South Adams Avenue Rehabilitation

03:55:30.600 --> 03:55:35.129
Grant. Alderman Stacey.

03:55:35.129 --> 03:55:44.729
Through my research, I was able to find that this particular applicant for the 1010 South

03:55:44.729 --> 03:56:00.809
Adam property has a total combined real estate portfolio of $312,690.

03:56:00.809 --> 03:56:05.809
Slash is anyone from this city aware of this?

03:56:08.120 --> 03:56:11.959
If you did, and they were still approved,

03:56:11.959 --> 03:56:13.959
then shame on you.

03:56:13.959 --> 03:56:18.959
If you didn't know, and they were still approved,

03:56:19.079 --> 03:56:22.399
then shame on you.

03:56:22.399 --> 03:56:25.600
I would think a portfolio of that size

03:56:25.600 --> 03:56:30.489
would deem them over-asset,

03:56:30.489 --> 03:56:35.250
or are assets not a part of the determining factor

03:56:35.250 --> 03:56:36.250
for approval.

03:56:36.250 --> 03:56:39.530
We don't know.

03:56:39.530 --> 03:56:47.350
I went on the city website to download a copy of the CDBG sample application and a listing

03:56:47.350 --> 03:56:55.329
of accepted documents, but the information was no longer available.

03:56:55.329 --> 03:57:03.850
So to ensure that the CDBG, Adam Avenue Housing Rehabilitation Grant Fund, which are still

03:57:03.850 --> 03:57:05.670
and

03:57:05.670 --> 03:57:13.590
I am here today to say that the taxpayer dollars are being

03:57:13.590 --> 03:57:20.909
distributed with fairness and equity as well as to provide a

03:57:20.909 --> 03:57:24.510
further safeguard against any potential misconduct.

03:57:24.510 --> 03:57:33.670
I make a motion to temporary halt all CDBG Adams Avenue

03:57:33.670 --> 03:57:37.709
until the council have been completely educated

03:57:37.709 --> 03:57:42.389
on the application and selection process

03:57:42.389 --> 03:57:47.389
and all other participants' requirements.

03:57:52.739 --> 03:57:53.579
Attorney Zito.

03:57:56.940 --> 03:57:59.299
So this was on for discussion only, right?

03:57:59.299 --> 03:58:01.579
So you actually have like a motion

03:58:01.579 --> 03:58:04.500
to basically put like a moratorium on the issuance

03:58:04.500 --> 03:58:09.500
of any further grants, right, CBGB grants here there.

03:58:09.540 --> 03:58:11.139
I think we can put it on an agenda,

03:58:11.139 --> 03:58:14.659
but four so that you can vote on it there.

03:58:14.659 --> 03:58:18.459
But because we have this just for discussion on here tonight,

03:58:18.459 --> 03:58:20.860
I don't think we can vote on the motion that you made,

03:58:20.860 --> 03:58:23.860
because you're actually looking to take actual action

03:58:23.860 --> 03:58:28.739
as far as placing a moratorium on the issuance

03:58:28.739 --> 03:58:31.100
of any further grants under this program.

03:58:31.100 --> 03:58:35.059
Well, I can't help that the word discussion was added.

03:58:35.059 --> 03:58:38.479
However, when I called in and said I wanted this,

03:58:38.479 --> 03:58:40.860
I said why I wanted this.

03:58:40.860 --> 03:58:45.899
Because this 1010 property, this family

03:58:45.899 --> 03:58:49.420
have 10 other properties here in Freeport,

03:58:49.420 --> 03:58:53.920
plus they have two properties in German Valley.

03:58:53.920 --> 03:59:00.219
And it is no way that they're eligible for this $48,000.

03:59:01.100 --> 03:59:09.920
and so I don't know who knows who or what is going on but clearly something is

03:59:09.920 --> 03:59:15.100
going on. You've already approved it though right? You know that.

03:59:15.100 --> 03:59:42.000
I do want to add some light to that because I can tell you're upset you and I've talked about this. It's not ten properties. I investigated it again today. I went to the tax records and looked at it. The German Valley House, I believe, was sold somewhere around 2006 and I was looking at it. The German Valley House was sold somewhere around 2006 and I was looking at it. The German Valley House was sold somewhere around 2006 and I was looking at it.

03:59:42.000 --> 03:59:49.479
As of 2023, the person we're talking about has paid taxes on a total of eight properties.

03:59:49.479 --> 03:59:56.239
And one of them is a vacant lot, and another one of them is their actual residence.

03:59:56.239 --> 04:00:03.319
And all of their, again, I have to be careful about what I say because some of this information

04:00:03.319 --> 04:00:09.459
is off of their tax returns, but I will say that this has all been accounted for.

04:00:09.459 --> 04:00:13.299
and I stand by it, you know, somebody else will come in here and have a different opinion,

04:00:13.299 --> 04:00:18.180
a different professional opinion, that's fair, I stand by that, somebody else's professional

04:00:18.180 --> 04:00:21.959
opinion, but I do know when I looked at that tax return, all these properties have been

04:00:21.959 --> 04:00:26.620
accounted for, the person who's part of this applicant has worked with me greatly and said

04:00:26.620 --> 04:00:32.659
anything they can do to put somebody's mind at ease, but owning, you're talking about

04:00:32.659 --> 04:00:37.739
the difference between assets versus how much money they make on their income statement,

04:00:37.739 --> 04:00:47.059
and their tax returns. You told me that, Director Duckman, you even offered me to come talk

04:00:47.059 --> 04:00:52.739
to them, but then you never followed up. I asked you Friday, and you were not here, but

04:00:52.739 --> 04:00:59.620
I asked you for a copy of the pre-walkthrough that happened on October 10th and any photos

04:00:59.620 --> 04:01:06.139
taken, and that could not even happen. We can do that, absolutely. We can still do that.

04:01:06.139 --> 04:01:10.620
I have all that information here, I just have to be extremely careful about what information

04:01:10.620 --> 04:01:18.340
is given because at some point if this person says, hey, my tax information, my tax ID got

04:01:18.340 --> 04:01:22.579
out or hey, I didn't want, so I consulted at today's department head meeting, I talked

04:01:22.579 --> 04:01:26.840
with Attorney Zito and I said, what's our best course of action to put somebody's mind

04:01:26.840 --> 04:01:27.840
at ease?

04:01:27.840 --> 04:01:33.139
And when I spoke with the applicant today, they said, I'll comply all day, I just have

04:01:33.139 --> 04:01:35.379
and I have certain information that I do want redacted.

04:01:35.379 --> 04:01:38.940
And so there's two sides that have two fair requests.

04:01:38.940 --> 04:01:41.219
But as I say, as a professional, I

04:01:41.219 --> 04:01:43.979
stand behind anything you'll look at on their records.

04:01:43.979 --> 04:01:46.020
And they're willing to work with whomever.

04:01:46.020 --> 04:01:49.020
So I brought it up at the department head meeting

04:01:49.020 --> 04:01:51.260
to make sure everybody was protected and safe.

04:01:51.260 --> 04:01:53.979
And however it is we end up looking at it,

04:01:53.979 --> 04:01:56.540
I do know Attorney Zito will be present to make sure

04:01:56.540 --> 04:01:59.059
whatever needs to be redacted is redacted.

04:01:59.059 --> 04:02:04.059
and I genuinely look forward to putting your mind at ease

04:02:04.059 --> 04:02:07.819
or anyone else's, but I do hope that as we move forward,

04:02:07.819 --> 04:02:10.559
this grant has taken three years to implement

04:02:10.559 --> 04:02:13.659
and that we don't delay people's projects

04:02:13.659 --> 04:02:15.600
that are reliant on it, you know,

04:02:15.600 --> 04:02:18.540
because there's questions on this one particular

04:02:18.540 --> 04:02:19.940
grant application.

04:02:19.940 --> 04:02:22.360
When I spoke with you last Monday,

04:02:22.360 --> 04:02:26.459
you stated that you had seen the 2020 income tax.

04:02:26.459 --> 04:02:28.920
Have you seen the 2023?

04:02:28.920 --> 04:02:33.680
yes I saw it today I have it today right I have it right here okay yes I have so

04:02:33.680 --> 04:02:40.120
then I would like to set up a meeting yeah with you and Zito and if the

04:02:40.120 --> 04:02:46.280
homeowners want to come so be it all I'm saying is right is right and wrong is

04:02:46.280 --> 04:02:54.200
wrong I agree anybody that owns 8, 10, 12 properties and they qualify for this

04:02:54.200 --> 04:02:56.200
Miller, David, and

04:02:57.620 --> 04:02:59.620
Daniel, and I'm so grateful for all of your help.

04:03:01.319 --> 04:03:03.319
I'm so grateful for all of the support that you've given us.

04:03:06.420 --> 04:03:08.420
But I just want to say that I'm not

04:03:09.459 --> 04:03:11.579
going to be giving away this type of grant money when we've

04:03:11.579 --> 04:03:13.579
got property on these streets that look worse than theirs.

04:03:15.500 --> 04:03:17.260
≫ Let me just stop though quick because that's bad

04:03:17.260 --> 04:03:19.260
information to put out into the public.

04:03:20.739 --> 04:03:22.639
I'm not insulting you at all, but putting out bad information

04:03:22.639 --> 04:03:31.000
Williams. It has a scoring system of points. As a director, I talked to the state and said,

04:03:31.000 --> 04:03:36.440
I do not want a city employee to be accused of having friends or favorites, cloak and

04:03:36.440 --> 04:03:41.399
dagger tactics. I said, how can we avoid that? And it says, you can hire a local planning

04:03:41.399 --> 04:03:47.319
council, region one planning council, to review objectively on a state-identified ranking

04:03:47.319 --> 04:03:51.680
system all of the applications. And that is what we did through council that was approved

04:03:51.680 --> 04:04:21.680
through Council. So every one of these properties, excuse me, was the highest, the highest weighted factor. I'll just read all of them. Owner occupied for 10 years or longer, you get 10 points for that. Owner occupied for five years or longer, you get five points for that. If you pay 35% or more of your income on your housing, that's 10 points. If you are elderly, 62 or older, you automatically go up 20 points. So that doesn't matter if your house is falling down in the ground.

04:04:21.680 --> 04:04:27.020
Brown, or if it's brand new, if you're elderly in this grant, you get an extra 20 points.

04:04:27.020 --> 04:04:29.920
If you're disabled, 20 points.

04:04:29.920 --> 04:04:32.639
If you're a single head of household, that's 10 points.

04:04:32.639 --> 04:04:36.020
If you have a large family, five or more, that's five points.

04:04:36.020 --> 04:04:38.340
And now they have listed incomes.

04:04:38.340 --> 04:04:42.299
This does not have anywhere on here about assets, does not say assets.

04:04:42.299 --> 04:04:45.420
It talks about your income and verifying your income.

04:04:45.420 --> 04:04:53.459
and based on what region you're in, these income levels are set by the state.

04:04:53.459 --> 04:05:00.379
It says if you have very low income, which is 50 to 30% of the area's median income,

04:05:00.379 --> 04:05:02.459
you receive 15 points.

04:05:02.459 --> 04:05:07.379
If you are extremely low income, which is less than 30% of the area's median income,

04:05:07.379 --> 04:05:12.899
which is determined by the state, and there's a graph here, you get 20 points.

04:05:12.899 --> 04:05:17.940
So nowhere in here in this ranking system does it say, well, my house is worse looking than

04:05:17.940 --> 04:05:18.940
your house.

04:05:18.940 --> 04:05:24.180
So it's very important to state that every one of these applications was not graded on

04:05:24.180 --> 04:05:26.319
is your house worse than my house?

04:05:26.319 --> 04:05:27.319
Not at all.

04:05:27.319 --> 04:05:29.639
So that's wrong for people to believe this.

04:05:29.639 --> 04:05:35.219
This is what the state of Illinois is going to look at for every one of these.

04:05:35.219 --> 04:05:41.559
So when we look at any application, that is how an independent organization reviewed these

04:05:41.559 --> 04:05:42.559
applications.

04:05:42.559 --> 04:05:46.200
I think it's very wrong to tell the public that that's how this grant was administered

04:05:46.200 --> 04:05:47.200
because it was not.

04:05:47.200 --> 04:05:56.399
When this house was chosen, when it came to council, I asked, why this house?

04:05:56.399 --> 04:05:59.819
Why this one first?

04:05:59.819 --> 04:06:05.399
And you talked about that point system and they applied, they're on the list, they qualify,

04:06:05.399 --> 04:06:08.799
they this, they that.

04:06:08.799 --> 04:06:09.799
True.

04:06:09.799 --> 04:06:11.899
I did say that and I stand by that.

04:06:11.899 --> 04:06:15.940
I stand by that if this ever was audited, however you want to go by this and however

04:06:15.940 --> 04:06:20.579
Attorney Zito is determined legally can show this information, this information will be

04:06:20.579 --> 04:06:23.899
showed. I've looked at it multiple times. I've looked at our contractor who reviewed

04:06:23.899 --> 04:06:29.459
these applications and we went step by step by step with the state on how to administer

04:06:29.459 --> 04:06:34.819
this. And that's exactly what we did. So you can't accuse the city of saying, well, Wayne

04:06:34.819 --> 04:06:38.079
made, you know, Wayne gave 10 points here because that's his favorite. No, we hired

04:06:38.079 --> 04:06:39.079
a professional.

04:06:39.079 --> 04:06:40.079
I never said that.

04:06:40.079 --> 04:06:41.079
and Stacey.

04:06:41.079 --> 04:06:43.639
I'm just stating that that is how this grant was.

04:06:43.639 --> 04:06:48.520
I'm saying I want to understand the grant and I want to understand your little point

04:06:48.520 --> 04:06:57.079
system and I want access to the state government pertaining to this grant.

04:06:57.079 --> 04:07:00.959
You could certainly call and ask the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and whatever

04:07:00.959 --> 04:07:03.360
information they can give you, they will.

04:07:03.360 --> 04:07:06.079
I don't control the DCEO and what they do.

04:07:06.079 --> 04:07:14.219
Okay, we're ready to move on.

04:07:14.219 --> 04:07:17.500
All I'm gonna say is you technically made a motion,

04:07:17.500 --> 04:07:18.940
given the fact that you're gonna have a meeting,

04:07:18.940 --> 04:07:19.920
do you wanna withdraw your motion

04:07:19.920 --> 04:07:21.219
just to clean that part up?

04:07:22.180 --> 04:07:25.420
I really would like to have everything stopped

04:07:25.420 --> 04:07:30.040
until there's a total understanding on these funds

04:07:30.040 --> 04:07:32.860
and how they're being administrated.

04:07:32.860 --> 04:07:37.860
And that the application wasn't filled wrong.

04:07:37.860 --> 04:07:47.389
wasn't filled to Brown. So if you want to consider that that stop then because it

04:07:47.389 --> 04:07:52.010
was written on here as a discussion at the very next council meeting that can

04:07:52.010 --> 04:07:57.909
be put on for as a motion to be made and seconded to have basically imposed a

04:07:57.909 --> 04:08:01.870
moratorium on the issuance of any further grants under this application or

04:08:01.870 --> 04:08:06.870
under this program. Do we treat that like the last one and take a vote on if it

04:08:06.870 --> 04:08:11.549
it moves forward to the next council as a no, it's going to move forward.

04:08:11.549 --> 04:08:15.510
Well, I think because she can always any two of them can always ask for something to be

04:08:15.510 --> 04:08:16.510
put on the agenda.

04:08:16.510 --> 04:08:20.430
So that's basically what I'm suggesting that if Alderman Stacy and another older person

04:08:20.430 --> 04:08:23.389
want to have that item put on the agenda, they can have it put on the okay.

04:08:23.389 --> 04:08:24.750
So that would be for discussion.

04:08:24.750 --> 04:08:28.309
You're not tasking attorney Zito to draw up some thing.

04:08:28.309 --> 04:08:37.200
Am I correct on that?

04:08:37.200 --> 04:08:40.760
What I asked for you saying I can't have.

04:08:40.760 --> 04:08:47.299
Not tonight, because of the heading on the agenda, but it can go on to another agenda.

04:08:47.299 --> 04:08:53.100
For discussion, how does that change?

04:08:53.100 --> 04:08:57.540
For the next agenda, it can be, you know, discussion slash, you know, motion or motion

04:08:57.540 --> 04:09:03.420
to, you know, motion for to instruct, you know, attorney to draft moratorium.

04:09:03.420 --> 04:09:06.520
That's what I wanted clarity on.

04:09:06.520 --> 04:09:11.840
But that's ultimately however Alderman Stacy wants to phrase it, for after moratorium then

04:09:40.000 --> 04:09:45.840
I'm saying that you don't need to make a motion tonight okay if you want because

04:09:45.840 --> 04:09:48.459
right we have the rule that says any two aldermen can have something placed on

04:09:48.459 --> 04:09:55.479
the agenda right but then what if what if December two three more properties come

04:09:55.479 --> 04:10:04.600
to move forward with a roof or whatever is needed and you could vote against I

04:10:04.600 --> 04:10:15.139
I mean they were voted, right? You voted against them. Of course. Right. It's going to be five to three or four to four and then the mayor's going to vote and she's going to vote for it.

04:10:16.780 --> 04:10:31.180
Wayne, do we have, like, is it likely between now and December, the first meeting of December? I don't think there's any, I have to double check our schedule. I have to double check to see where we're at on the next, because as stated before, before these can move forward, we have to schedule the,

04:10:31.180 --> 04:10:45.180
We have that hired independent contractor and he actually had an accident in his family so he was missing some time so we had to delay some of the inspections but I'll double check to see where we're at on those independent inspections.

04:10:45.180 --> 04:10:52.180
So I was told Wednesday that there had been a halt put on 1010. So are you telling me you're moving forward now?

04:10:52.180 --> 04:10:57.979
1010 okay so 1010 the short answer to your question is the contractors not had

04:10:57.979 --> 04:11:02.500
started work and I told them to stop and they've stopped at 1010 I've asked them

04:11:02.500 --> 04:11:06.840
to stop because I said there was an agenda item where and there was

04:11:06.840 --> 04:11:10.799
concerns about the application and I said I needed to talk with our older

04:11:10.799 --> 04:11:15.659
people and our attorney because when I talked to our consultant about it at the

04:11:15.659 --> 04:11:21.940
staff level our consultant meaning MSA myself we scoured the income records

04:11:21.940 --> 04:11:22.940
Fowler.

04:11:22.940 --> 04:11:27.219
I had a meeting with the property owner and I said I can't find anything that would preclude

04:11:27.219 --> 04:11:28.940
this person from moving forward with the grant.

04:11:28.940 --> 04:11:35.000
They followed all the rules and I said I can't and our consultant could not find a reason

04:11:35.000 --> 04:11:36.000
to stop it.

04:11:36.000 --> 04:11:41.180
But I said and our consultant actually suggested and I agreed, I said if something is going

04:11:41.180 --> 04:11:44.379
to move forward it's going to have to be legal action, talk to your attorney because I can't

04:11:44.379 --> 04:11:45.940
see a reason to stop it.

04:11:45.940 --> 04:11:50.819
So I said yes, please put it on halt until we can figure out what we're doing.

04:11:50.819 --> 04:11:57.020
So, from the staff level, I did tell the contractor to stop working on the project until this

04:11:57.020 --> 04:11:58.360
is figured out.

04:11:58.360 --> 04:12:04.250
For 1010 Southat, I've told them to stop.

04:12:04.250 --> 04:12:05.250
Until it's figured out.

04:12:05.250 --> 04:12:10.049
Okay, so we have a motion, do we, I forgot, did we have a second on that?

04:12:10.049 --> 04:12:15.430
To halt, to task attorney Zito to draft halting all-

04:12:15.430 --> 04:12:16.430
A moratorium.

04:12:16.430 --> 04:12:17.430
Yeah.

04:12:17.430 --> 04:12:18.430
Right.

04:12:18.430 --> 04:12:19.430
There.

04:12:19.430 --> 04:12:20.430
So I guess, right.

04:12:20.430 --> 04:12:24.709
We did just a few other ones as to whether or not

04:12:24.709 --> 04:12:26.870
the council wants to move forward with

04:12:26.870 --> 04:12:28.709
basically looking into this more

04:12:28.709 --> 04:12:30.530
by having my office put something together

04:12:30.530 --> 04:12:31.549
for your guys' consideration.

04:12:31.549 --> 04:12:35.010
Okay, so is there a second on that?

04:12:35.930 --> 04:12:36.950
I'll second it.

04:12:40.450 --> 04:12:41.969
Yeah, I just have a question.

04:12:41.969 --> 04:12:43.870
So if we were to stop this,

04:12:43.870 --> 04:12:46.729
that would stop the people that are getting the roof,

04:12:46.729 --> 04:12:49.850
that's getting the windows, that's getting all these things.

04:12:49.850 --> 04:12:50.850
Huffines.

04:12:50.850 --> 04:12:51.850
That stops 10-10 only.

04:12:51.850 --> 04:13:02.709
But you took a vote on it and it didn't pass.

04:13:02.709 --> 04:13:06.709
What you just said for a motion, we haven't voted on it yet.

04:13:06.709 --> 04:13:11.670
Your motion was to task him to halt all CBDG projects.

04:13:11.670 --> 04:13:13.190
Yes.

04:13:13.190 --> 04:13:14.510
We haven't voted on that yet.

04:13:14.510 --> 04:13:17.149
But 24 and 25.

04:13:17.149 --> 04:13:18.870
It would stop all that.

04:13:18.870 --> 04:13:19.870
Yeah.

04:13:19.870 --> 04:13:23.790
That's what I'm saying. Would we want to stop? Is this a state grant?

04:13:23.790 --> 04:13:25.549
Okay, so, pardon me? Yes.

04:13:25.549 --> 04:13:27.229
This is a state grant. Yes.

04:13:27.229 --> 04:13:29.069
The money is already there, right? Yes.

04:13:29.069 --> 04:13:31.149
Yes. And with deadlines, by the way.

04:13:31.149 --> 04:13:33.389
Yeah, and that's why I'm saying- What deadlines?

04:13:34.989 --> 04:13:42.030
Originally, this grant had a deadline of November of this year, and so I'd say,

04:13:42.030 --> 04:13:46.270
I think it was back three months ago, I started the process of a grant extension

04:13:46.270 --> 04:13:52.129
and had a multitude of reasons on why we needed a grant extension so the state

04:13:52.129 --> 04:13:55.989
of this is one of the most restrictive grants you're going to find I've worked

04:13:55.989 --> 04:14:00.670
with several different communities in looking you know I'm going back when I

04:14:00.670 --> 04:14:05.989
started when I was hired on here going on three years one of my biggest

04:14:05.989 --> 04:14:10.270
dedications I've done for this community is working on a way to unlock this money

04:14:10.270 --> 04:14:14.590
for these homeowners because the state was like with every step of the way I

04:14:14.590 --> 04:14:17.190
I would say hey can I move forward with this and they would say okay here's ten

04:14:17.190 --> 04:14:22.430
more here's ten more roadblocks you have to get through before you can get the

04:14:22.430 --> 04:14:25.750
people this money here's another ten roadblocks and so I would get to a

04:14:25.750 --> 04:14:28.569
point and then there would be more roadblocks and then you know we got to a

04:14:28.569 --> 04:14:31.909
certain point and then it's okay hire this consultant where can we go you know

04:14:31.909 --> 04:14:35.870
how can we get the people to aid and it really kind of seemed like the state was

04:14:35.870 --> 04:14:40.549
trying to just put all these bureaucratic roadblocks in front of us so

04:14:40.549 --> 04:14:44.469
that we would hit the deadline but our consultant was really great and it really

04:14:44.469 --> 04:14:47.950
helped us put together an extension, not from November,

04:14:47.950 --> 04:14:49.510
but they got it done for May.

04:14:49.510 --> 04:14:53.590
So my staff has done a tremendous amount of work.

04:14:53.590 --> 04:14:55.750
I looked at the binder today, and it was probably

04:14:55.750 --> 04:14:59.190
about 16 inches tall, which is paperwork

04:14:59.190 --> 04:15:01.430
for this actual grant application.

04:15:01.430 --> 04:15:06.110
So the answer to your question is the grant is currently,

04:15:06.110 --> 04:15:11.190
I believe the extension goes till May of 26.

04:15:11.190 --> 04:15:14.270
And I will say that I will say I'm sorry.

04:15:14.270 --> 04:15:16.790
I'm sorry, May at 25.

04:15:16.790 --> 04:15:19.709
Feels like time flies when you're having fun.

04:15:19.709 --> 04:15:25.489
So I would state that in working with the DCEO who administers

04:15:25.489 --> 04:15:28.549
the State Department, who administers this grant,

04:15:28.549 --> 04:15:30.590
they said if you continue to show progress,

04:15:30.590 --> 04:15:32.870
there's a very good chance you'll get another extension

04:15:32.870 --> 04:15:36.469
in May to bring all the people this aid.

04:15:36.469 --> 04:15:40.950
So certainly delaying the process and put a moratorium

04:15:40.950 --> 04:15:44.190
is going to put more of a strain on staff

04:15:44.190 --> 04:15:47.069
to make sure that we can get the rest of the people

04:15:47.069 --> 04:15:48.709
the aid they need for this grant.

04:15:50.149 --> 04:15:51.149
Alderman Sellers.

04:15:51.149 --> 04:15:55.469
Yes, didn't you guys go out and your staff

04:15:55.469 --> 04:15:58.989
go out door to door in that whole area

04:15:58.989 --> 04:16:03.989
and ask each one, each homeowner that qualified

04:16:04.629 --> 04:16:05.989
in that area?

04:16:05.989 --> 04:16:07.469
My unders, sorry.

04:16:07.469 --> 04:16:10.010
That, no, I'm just saying, I remember,

04:16:10.010 --> 04:16:11.010
and John.

04:16:11.010 --> 04:16:19.690
I don't know if it was, I know it was Kirsten, but I'm saying I don't know if it was people

04:16:19.690 --> 04:16:25.610
from the NAACP or somebody wanted to help you push and help you promote it and you had

04:16:25.610 --> 04:16:31.969
enough staff members to go out and you guys went home to home asking people did they want

04:16:31.969 --> 04:16:34.450
to qualify to be a part of this.

04:16:34.450 --> 04:17:04.450
is to help you clarify what happened there. So I think anytime there's a grant and people think that there's money to be had, I think there's a lot of misinformation that's going out. So one thing, there's a couple of things to remember here. Many of the people who submitted these grants to me, they said, I'll work with you all day. Please don't, I don't necessarily want my neighbor to know how much money I make. I don't want my neighbor to know where am I getting my money. Those are specific requests, as sometimes the information is being handed to me. So I was

04:17:04.450 --> 04:17:34.450
It's a challenging grant from a lot of different aspects and you're working with people. Also, would say that, you know, there's just, people would say, well, don't let, don't trust him, don't trust him. There's money to be had. So there's going to be some mudslinging, I think, going on. But the answer to your question is, I had, I had, when I came in, all of the grant applications, the process you're talking about had been done, it was closed. The grant applications were closed. What had been discussed was there was

04:17:34.450 --> 04:18:04.450
and more information that was needed from the 65 applicants and there was offers from the public and I said look I'm going to do it with staff and with consultants because some of the people here are very protective of their information and have told me they don't want to talk to people they just want to keep their information private and I said I'll do everything I can within the confines of the law to keep your information as private as I can I go if somebody foyers this information I will have to give certain parts of it away

04:18:04.450 --> 04:18:06.610
All understood that I would do my best.

04:18:06.610 --> 04:18:08.930
And that's what happened with that situation.

04:18:08.930 --> 04:18:11.809
But I knew that you had some community help

04:18:11.809 --> 04:18:14.889
to try to help those people get that grant through.

04:18:14.889 --> 04:18:17.090
Yes.

04:18:17.090 --> 04:18:21.090
OK, so there's a motion on the floor

04:18:21.090 --> 04:18:25.250
to task Attorney Zito to write this up

04:18:25.250 --> 04:18:27.889
for halting all projects.

04:18:27.889 --> 04:18:29.610
Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll?

04:18:29.610 --> 04:18:30.729
Stacy?

04:18:30.729 --> 04:18:31.409
Aye.

04:18:31.409 --> 04:18:32.090
Shadle?

04:18:32.090 --> 04:18:32.649
No.

04:18:32.649 --> 04:18:33.450
Sanders?

04:18:33.450 --> 04:18:34.250
Aye.

04:18:34.250 --> 04:18:58.180
Sellers? No. Klemm? No. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? So you want all projects stopped? That's what

04:18:58.180 --> 04:19:08.149
the motion is. He's bringing it to me by the first of December, the first meeting in December.

04:19:08.149 --> 04:19:09.989
My understanding of the motion is that you wanted

04:19:09.989 --> 04:19:12.239
My understanding of the motion is that you wanted me, if this motion goes through, it

04:19:12.239 --> 04:19:20.600
would be to direct me to place a moratorium on all CBGB projects.

04:19:20.600 --> 04:19:23.799
That would even include the ones approved prior.

04:19:23.799 --> 04:19:26.299
Yes, all is all.

04:19:26.299 --> 04:19:30.000
That's my understanding of the request.

04:19:30.000 --> 04:19:37.020
Did we get a total understanding on these applicants and how they're really working?

04:19:37.020 --> 04:20:03.469
I don't, I agree that questions need to be asked if you feel like something is being

04:20:03.469 --> 04:20:05.010
done incorrectly.

04:20:05.010 --> 04:20:32.979
However, the people who did qualify and are getting work done, I'm sorry.

04:20:32.979 --> 04:20:33.979
No.

04:20:33.979 --> 04:20:34.979
Parker?

04:20:34.979 --> 04:20:35.979
No.

04:20:35.979 --> 04:20:38.579
Fails, three to five.

04:20:40.420 --> 04:20:42.540
Okay, we'll move on to item number 32,

04:20:42.540 --> 04:20:44.920
reports from department heads, finance.

04:20:46.299 --> 04:20:47.379
Nothing, your honor.

04:20:47.379 --> 04:20:48.739
Thank you, community development?

04:20:48.739 --> 04:20:50.180
Nothing tonight, Madam Mayor.

04:20:50.180 --> 04:20:51.579
Public works?

04:20:51.579 --> 04:20:56.379
One thing, today we had a public hearing for a CDBG grant,

04:20:56.379 --> 04:21:00.579
great topic for sewer lining here in Freeport.

04:21:00.579 --> 04:21:04.260
It's a million dollar grant with no match by the city.

04:21:04.260 --> 04:21:09.020
We're proposing sewer lining in the fourth, third, fifth,

04:21:09.020 --> 04:21:12.739
and seventh ward due to income levels.

04:21:12.739 --> 04:21:14.579
Lines are yet to be determined.

04:21:14.579 --> 04:21:15.979
The reason I bring this up tonight

04:21:15.979 --> 04:21:18.219
is there'll be a resolution that has to be passed

04:21:18.219 --> 04:21:20.579
on the December 2nd meeting in order to submit

04:21:20.579 --> 04:21:23.020
for the grant on December 4th.

04:21:23.020 --> 04:21:25.200
Again, it's a million dollar grant

04:21:25.200 --> 04:21:27.520
with no match from the city.

04:21:27.520 --> 04:21:29.700
Something that we've mined up

04:21:29.700 --> 04:21:31.940
and is a very good opportunity for Freeport.

04:21:34.260 --> 04:21:35.100
Fire?

04:21:35.979 --> 04:21:37.239
Nothing this evening.

04:21:37.239 --> 04:21:38.079
Police?

04:21:38.079 --> 04:21:38.920
No report.

04:21:40.420 --> 04:21:41.260
Library?

04:21:41.260 --> 04:21:43.879
Nothing tonight.

04:21:43.879 --> 04:21:44.719
IT?

04:21:45.940 --> 04:21:47.020
City manager?

04:21:47.020 --> 04:21:48.620
I'd just like to compliment the staff

04:21:48.620 --> 04:21:49.940
on their professionalism tonight.

04:21:49.940 --> 04:21:51.100
Thank you.

04:21:51.100 --> 04:21:52.979
And I just have a couple of things.

04:21:52.979 --> 04:21:54.540
I just want to thank the city crews

04:21:54.540 --> 04:21:57.620
for installing all the downtown Christmas decorations

04:21:57.620 --> 04:21:58.899
just in time for Missile to Walk,

04:21:58.899 --> 04:22:01.979
which is this Saturday from noon until 8 p.m.

04:22:01.979 --> 04:22:04.940
Everything from a hot chocolate to s'mores station

04:22:04.940 --> 04:22:11.180
and Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides and then at five o'clock is the lighting of the tree at the courthouse and

04:22:11.579 --> 04:22:18.780
in line with Christmas decorations mark your calendars and purchase your tickets now for the December 13th at seven o'clock

04:22:19.420 --> 04:22:26.959
is the Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tribute Show at the Masonic Temple and the proceeds from this show will go to purchase

04:22:27.819 --> 04:22:34.739
decorations Christmas decorations along the Chicago Avenue corridor and then also there is still time to drop off

04:22:34.940 --> 04:22:42.459
Huff, items for the 333rd National Guard care package, 62 men and women were deployed out

04:22:42.459 --> 04:22:47.340
of Freeport and the items that they are in need of are socks, hand warmers, batteries,

04:22:47.340 --> 04:22:49.340
toiletry items, and snacks.

04:22:49.340 --> 04:22:52.940
We are taking donations through the rest of this month.

04:22:52.940 --> 04:23:00.340
We'll move on to Alderman Stacy and Alderman Shadle.

04:23:00.340 --> 04:23:10.180
I would just like to say that some things were said earlier in the direction of Community

04:23:10.180 --> 04:23:17.399
Development Director Duckman that I thoroughly disagree with.

04:23:17.399 --> 04:23:25.840
He has a level of honesty and integrity that I would put second to none and I feel there

04:23:25.840 --> 04:23:26.840
Miller.

04:23:26.840 --> 04:23:32.360
There is absolutely no reason to doubt anything that he did with those grants.

04:23:32.360 --> 04:23:39.360
It was not totally the way it was specified by the state.

04:23:39.360 --> 04:23:40.360
Alderman Sanders?

04:23:40.360 --> 04:23:41.959
I have nothing to report.

04:23:41.959 --> 04:23:42.959
Alderman Sellers?

04:23:42.959 --> 04:23:43.959
Nothing.

04:23:43.959 --> 04:23:44.959
Alderman Klemm?

04:23:44.959 --> 04:23:50.120
I just want to mention we have a November 26th neighborhood watch meeting.

04:23:50.120 --> 04:23:51.840
That's it.

04:23:51.840 --> 04:23:54.040
Alderman Monroe?

04:23:54.040 --> 04:23:55.040
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

04:23:55.040 --> 04:24:02.479
I'd like to apologize to David Hayes, item number five. I'm not suspending the rules and getting that passed tonight.

04:24:02.479 --> 04:24:09.520
I would encourage everybody to stick around for item number 38 as we come out of executive session.

04:24:10.680 --> 04:24:14.159
Should be an interesting conversation as well as

04:24:15.200 --> 04:24:22.479
you know my disappointment overall and not wanting to look into certain items just because

04:24:22.479 --> 04:24:28.840
Fowler, and I think it's time that we start investigating some of the things that have

04:24:28.840 --> 04:24:31.879
been said around the city for many years.

04:24:31.879 --> 04:24:38.120
I've been coming to a realization that there are several people in this community who don't

04:24:38.120 --> 04:24:43.159
have Freeport's best interest in mind, and I've started to speak out against it.

04:24:43.159 --> 04:24:49.520
And as you saw here tonight, it's not very comfortable at times, but sometimes it's important

04:24:49.520 --> 04:24:52.280
to bring the uncomfortable up.

04:24:52.280 --> 04:25:00.120
So I'd like to thank everybody for tuning in and listening in and more to come.

04:25:00.120 --> 04:25:02.639
Alderman Simmons?

04:25:02.639 --> 04:25:08.040
Just a reminder of our Third War community meeting on this Friday coming up November

04:25:08.040 --> 04:25:11.079
22nd at four o'clock at the library.

04:25:11.079 --> 04:25:13.040
Alderman Parker?

04:25:13.040 --> 04:25:20.319
Just to agree with Alderman Shadle reference, Mr. Duckman here, he's done a great job.

04:25:20.319 --> 04:25:21.319
Huffines.

04:25:21.319 --> 04:25:22.319
Thank you.

04:25:22.319 --> 04:25:23.319
I'm going to take one more question.

04:25:23.319 --> 04:25:24.319
Number 136 is public comment.

04:25:24.319 --> 04:25:32.500
Take one at a time.

04:25:32.500 --> 04:25:34.700
So back to speak about number six.

04:25:34.700 --> 04:25:40.500
I just want you to know that what is on or what was added to the ordinance is even more

04:25:40.500 --> 04:25:46.440
of a fine than you already have in place of $100 per unit.

04:25:46.440 --> 04:25:52.879
You currently have a fine of $100 per unit in your ordinance that you're not collecting

04:25:52.879 --> 04:25:55.940
on or that nothing has been collected on this year.

04:25:55.940 --> 04:26:00.739
So the request for it to be the way it was when it was presented to you as the ordinance

04:26:00.739 --> 04:26:06.920
was something that people were discussed with and agreed upon knowing that it was more than

04:26:06.920 --> 04:26:10.520
what was already in the ordinance as it stands today.

04:26:10.520 --> 04:26:11.520
Thank you.

04:26:11.520 --> 04:26:12.520
Next.

04:26:12.520 --> 04:26:27.840
I'm not here to accuse anybody of any wrongdoing.

04:26:27.840 --> 04:26:35.180
I think that everybody does their best and I don't think that any one person knows everything.

04:26:35.180 --> 04:26:43.940
but what in my experience every government program that's offering financial help always

04:26:43.940 --> 04:26:45.340
considers assets.

04:26:45.340 --> 04:26:47.420
I've never heard of this.

04:26:47.420 --> 04:26:53.219
Now I believe that the community development director probably did hand out the applications

04:26:53.219 --> 04:26:58.020
and he looked at them and to the best of his ability he complied with all the rules.

04:26:58.020 --> 04:27:05.520
but what I want to do, I'm going to research this grant thoroughly and find out actually

04:27:05.520 --> 04:27:10.340
are they seriously not considering a person's assets?

04:27:10.340 --> 04:27:17.219
Every program I'm familiar with, healthcare, housing, every government program, they want

04:27:17.219 --> 04:27:19.040
to know what your assets are.

04:27:19.040 --> 04:27:22.260
These people shouldn't have even been handed an application.

04:27:22.260 --> 04:27:26.020
So I would like to know, I'd like to come to the office of the community development

04:27:26.020 --> 04:27:30.780
Director, and find out, you know, bring my notes, exactly what the name of the program

04:27:30.780 --> 04:27:36.780
is. If you've got a notebook, I'd like to just borrow it and look at it. I could sit

04:27:36.780 --> 04:27:41.559
in here and look at it. But I'm trying to be helpful. This just should not be happening

04:27:41.559 --> 04:27:48.559
to our community. Nobody with a lot of assets should be getting $48,000 when there are 65

04:27:49.860 --> 04:27:55.879
other applicants who may or may not be in more need. It just isn't right. I just find

04:27:55.879 --> 04:28:34.389
Miller, Nealey Erickson, Alderman Clem,

04:28:34.389 --> 04:28:35.389
Huffines.

04:28:35.389 --> 04:28:46.989
I want to bring back to your attention the overall rental registration ordinance because

04:28:46.989 --> 04:28:54.110
it's a larger animal and after the definitions the immediate first implication on your ordinance

04:28:54.110 --> 04:28:57.430
is required registration.

04:28:57.430 --> 04:29:03.790
Property owners, landlords in your community cannot rent to tenants unless their properties

04:29:03.790 --> 04:29:05.149
are registered.

04:29:05.149 --> 04:29:07.989
And so we recognize that there are.

04:29:07.989 --> 04:29:23.000
We recognize that there are noncompliant individuals, and when we were discussing the fee structure, we designed the fee structure to ensure compliance and protect your contendence exactly from what you said, Alder Woman Sellers,

04:29:23.000 --> 04:29:28.059
Sanders, and that we wanted to make sure that they did not take the brunt of the overall

04:29:28.059 --> 04:29:34.280
burdensome of that fee, because you have to remember, if the property owner can't pay

04:29:34.280 --> 04:29:40.319
the fee, they then cannot register the property, and what is the tenant supposed to do?

04:29:40.319 --> 04:29:46.760
And so that is the reason why the fee is designed in order to encourage compliance without extreme

04:29:46.760 --> 04:29:50.239
penalization of that individual and the tenant.

04:29:50.239 --> 04:29:56.479
and so Ashley and I, Ashley is with the Landlord Association, I am with the Realtor Association

04:29:56.479 --> 04:30:01.600
and so when we worked on this proposal back and forth with the city manager and with the

04:30:01.600 --> 04:30:07.840
city we wanted to make sure that the implications were minimal and that it focused on the problem

04:30:07.840 --> 04:30:13.680
property owners in your community and that is what the core goal of this ordinance is

04:30:13.680 --> 04:30:15.520
that was in front of you today.

04:30:15.520 --> 04:30:20.120
So we hope that you see that in the next couple of weeks that you remember these words, it

04:30:20.120 --> 04:30:37.319
and so on. We want to make sure it's perfectly clear that throughout this we have brought

04:30:37.319 --> 04:30:42.760
ideas to the city outside of the rental registration system and that there is a transfer tax document

04:30:42.760 --> 04:30:47.520
that is filed with this city and that it is easy to create another document that says

04:30:47.520 --> 04:30:52.159
at the signing table letting that person know who's purchasing the property that if you're

04:30:52.159 --> 04:30:57.260
going to rent this property there is a registration system with the city of Freeport and you are

04:30:57.260 --> 04:31:03.280
obligated to follow it and at that point in time they know also with the water bills the

04:31:03.280 --> 04:31:08.700
tenant is responsible to sign up for the water to ask a simple question are you a tenant

04:31:08.700 --> 04:31:15.059
or not takes no extra city staff time takes no extra obligation but that empowers the

04:31:15.059 --> 04:31:16.059
Dickelman.

04:31:16.059 --> 04:31:17.059
Thank you for your time.

04:31:17.059 --> 04:31:18.059
Thank you.

04:31:18.059 --> 04:31:25.059
Is there any other public comments?

04:31:25.059 --> 04:31:46.579
My understanding is, is a restaurant submitting their permits, a good restaurant that you

04:31:46.579 --> 04:31:48.180
you will probably enjoy.

04:31:48.180 --> 04:31:56.379
And I want to tell Jodi Miller, she got the good job to nail the people and go Packers.

04:31:56.379 --> 04:31:57.379
Go Packers.

04:31:57.379 --> 04:32:00.780
Are there any other public comments?

04:32:00.780 --> 04:32:08.200
I'll make this very, very quick.

04:32:08.200 --> 04:32:13.719
I really enjoyed the debate, especially on the landlord situation.

04:32:13.719 --> 04:32:19.079
And I don't want to pick on this poor man, but it's not totally working properly.

04:32:19.079 --> 04:32:24.959
When they came in and investigated some garages in my neighborhood that were bad, which I

04:32:24.959 --> 04:32:32.120
kind of pointed to the fact, rather than repair the garages, they tore them down.

04:32:32.120 --> 04:32:36.760
All of a sudden, my property values are less, not more.

04:32:36.760 --> 04:32:39.959
That property value is less, not more.

04:32:39.959 --> 04:32:47.319
So we need to think like the people that just pointed out.

04:32:47.319 --> 04:32:51.260
What we do, we are destroying more than we're creating.

04:32:51.260 --> 04:32:58.700
We're demolishing more than we're rebuilding, and I think we've got to get on that track.

04:32:58.700 --> 04:33:01.440
We're trying to hold our property taxes down.

04:33:01.440 --> 04:33:06.520
I put something in there, and I would have liked to have kept the level the same, which

04:33:06.520 --> 04:33:09.479
would have increased it to another $18,000.

04:33:09.479 --> 04:33:16.979
I don't care about the $18,000, but if we can get our property taxes up in my neighborhood,

04:33:16.979 --> 04:33:21.740
it should reduce the property taxes in the other areas as well.

04:33:21.740 --> 04:33:26.740
So we need to manage our property as well as we can.

04:33:26.819 --> 04:33:31.500
Anyway, the job on the budget has been pretty remarkable.

04:33:31.500 --> 04:33:33.180
A lot of work went into it.

04:33:33.180 --> 04:33:34.919
I know Michelle went through hell.

04:33:34.919 --> 04:33:36.900
I went through hell, looked at the numbers.

04:33:36.900 --> 04:33:38.860
They come out halfway decent.

04:33:38.860 --> 04:33:41.459
There are some things that you should take notice of.

04:33:41.459 --> 04:33:43.419
Most of you got my documentation.

04:33:43.419 --> 04:33:49.419
Look forward to solving those few problems and I think we'll be in very, very good shape.

04:33:49.419 --> 04:33:55.419
The capital budget project that he put together is a doable thing. Goodbye.

04:33:55.419 --> 04:34:00.700
Are there any other public comments?

04:34:00.700 --> 04:34:04.700
Okay, we'll move on to item number 37. Could you please read this?

04:34:04.700 --> 04:34:10.700
Pursuant to 5 ILCS 122C2, collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees

04:34:10.700 --> 04:34:12.919
or their representatives or deliberations

04:34:12.919 --> 04:34:14.279
concerning salary schedules

04:34:14.279 --> 04:34:16.200
for one or more classes of employees.

04:34:17.200 --> 04:34:20.119
Is there a motion to enter into executive session?

04:34:20.119 --> 04:34:22.680
So moved.

04:34:22.680 --> 04:34:23.680
Do we have a second?

04:34:29.290 --> 04:34:30.430
Do we have a second?

04:34:30.430 --> 04:34:31.270
Yeah, we're waiting on a motion.

04:34:31.270 --> 04:34:36.270
Okay, so we've got a motion made by Alderman Shadle,

04:34:36.430 --> 04:34:38.290
seconded by Alderman Parker.

04:34:41.409 --> 04:34:42.950
Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

04:34:42.950 --> 04:34:44.069
Stacy?

04:34:44.069 --> 04:34:44.909
Aye.

04:34:44.909 --> 04:34:45.729
Shadle?

04:34:45.729 --> 04:34:47.729
Sanders, Sellers,

04:34:55.889 --> 04:35:11.959
It is a no final answer. Klemm, Monroe, Simmons, Parker. Motion passes six to two.

04:35:31.409 --> 04:35:33.409
I did it, I did it.

04:36:01.409 --> 04:36:08.409
You know I've got this.

04:36:08.409 --> 04:36:10.409
You've got a long ride.

04:36:10.409 --> 04:36:11.409
Yes, ma'am.

04:36:11.409 --> 04:36:12.409
I'm not going to live here.

04:36:12.409 --> 04:36:13.409
What?

04:36:13.409 --> 04:36:14.409
I'm not going to live here.

04:36:14.409 --> 04:36:15.409
There's nothing I can ask for.

04:36:15.409 --> 04:36:17.409
Over here.

04:36:17.409 --> 04:36:18.409
Thank you, sir.

04:36:18.409 --> 04:36:25.409
I'm fired up because it's 11 o'clock at night.

04:36:25.409 --> 04:36:28.409
There's nothing to do with me.

04:36:28.409 --> 04:36:30.409
That has nothing to do with me.

04:36:34.409 --> 04:36:37.409
You can't blame me for Peck, I don't call him Peck.

04:36:43.409 --> 04:36:48.409
Yeah, but all those problems over in Pecktown were the Mayor's fault.

04:36:48.409 --> 04:36:52.409
They were all his fault. He directed all that work.

04:36:53.409 --> 04:36:55.409
He did all of it.

04:36:55.409 --> 04:37:01.409
He went out and told the county council, go do this, and then he called us and said, I told him to do that.

04:37:01.409 --> 04:37:07.409
I worked for work, I know that thing. Adam Holder was one of my best friends, he would know everything I had.

04:37:25.409 --> 04:37:49.409
Oh, is he getting ready?

04:37:49.409 --> 04:37:50.409
Yeah.

04:37:50.409 --> 04:38:08.409
I did, I asked Scott and he was like, I asked Scott and he was like, no. He was like, I'm leaving. And he just left. I was like, okay.

04:38:20.409 --> 04:38:37.409
We're the next consultant, what does that have to do with it?

04:38:37.409 --> 04:39:06.409
The lights are off, it's a secret.

04:39:06.409 --> 04:39:08.209
The lights are off upstairs. I hope she didn't go home.

04:39:12.209 --> 04:39:14.209
The lights are off upstairs.

04:39:20.209 --> 04:39:22.209
Oh here she comes. She went downstairs.

04:40:34.209 --> 04:40:39.009
Fashions, all this other shit, the Irish, English maker, R.M.G.

04:40:39.009 --> 04:40:42.610
On the record, from Milwaukee, came down here and disappeared.

04:40:42.610 --> 04:40:44.610
Just nine million dollars, who would have thought?

04:40:44.610 --> 04:40:48.610
They had the Irish right there.

04:40:48.610 --> 04:40:50.610
There's still pictures of them.

04:40:50.610 --> 04:40:52.610
It's a blister.

04:40:52.610 --> 04:40:54.610
Every time there's a little bit of confusion in there.

04:40:54.610 --> 04:40:56.610
If you think it's going to be just twice,

04:40:56.610 --> 04:40:58.610
just give it your worst first time before then.

04:40:58.610 --> 04:41:00.610
And I'm telling you,

04:41:00.610 --> 04:41:04.560
this is the same.

04:41:37.020 --> 04:41:39.020
I said I have all my KDs.

04:41:39.020 --> 04:41:41.020
How many now you're working?

04:41:41.020 --> 04:41:42.020
Yes.

04:41:42.020 --> 04:41:44.020
But for some reason, there isn't.

04:41:44.020 --> 04:41:46.020
No, Rob, you're joking.

04:41:46.020 --> 04:41:49.020
For some reason, it takes longer to work.

04:41:49.020 --> 04:41:51.020
What are we talking about?

04:41:51.020 --> 04:41:53.020
Who's talking about?

04:41:53.020 --> 04:41:54.020
Don't.

04:41:54.020 --> 04:41:56.020
That's what I do.

04:41:56.020 --> 04:41:58.020
I'm just saying.

04:41:58.020 --> 04:42:00.020
This is my job.

04:42:00.020 --> 04:42:02.020
I have not heard enough.

04:43:20.869 --> 04:43:30.180
I'm not gonna understand it, yes, they're not gonna get up and just sit back and listen to what I'm talking about, right?

04:43:30.180 --> 04:43:44.759
You and I are many, I have your work, six figures on everything, and it's, that's the way it should be.

04:43:44.759 --> 04:43:49.409
Do you understand?

04:43:49.409 --> 04:43:50.409
Do you understand?

04:43:50.409 --> 04:43:52.409
I mean, no one's ever told me that.

04:43:52.409 --> 04:43:53.409
Right?

04:43:53.409 --> 04:44:01.409
And so what you're gonna get is everybody's gonna kind of go, like, because there's no reason why I'm saying these things,

04:44:52.560 --> 04:45:09.560
I think it's under the student, because it's all he's supposed to do, and actually he had an essay, and R1 did it, so it was separate parties, so it wasn't for the one who did it. They checked the bars, and said, go ahead and do that.

04:45:09.560 --> 04:45:30.400
to understand if these are the ways to do that, is it possible for us to change the way we do things?

04:45:30.400 --> 04:45:35.400
It doesn't have to be yes or no, probably no, probably no, it's safe, it's safe.

04:45:35.400 --> 04:45:37.400
So everybody has to probably...

04:45:37.400 --> 04:45:39.400
We don't need it somewhere.

04:45:39.400 --> 04:45:41.400
We don't need it somewhere.

04:45:41.400 --> 04:45:45.400
Then it changes that conversation.

04:46:59.220 --> 04:47:04.220
to count these up, that's probably how it's happening.

04:47:04.220 --> 04:47:08.220
That's what I'm saying, and it's because you're gonna do it,

04:47:08.220 --> 04:47:11.220
that's what it is, because it's a whole new dimension.

04:47:11.220 --> 04:47:15.220
The pocket is going into the company's pocket.

04:47:15.220 --> 04:47:18.220
That's exactly what I'm saying.

04:47:18.220 --> 04:47:24.220
Well, I hate to say it, but this is gonna sound sick,

04:47:24.220 --> 04:47:26.220
but you can't blame people for playing the rules

04:47:26.220 --> 04:47:27.220
Goodman.

04:47:27.220 --> 04:47:28.220
Right?

04:47:28.220 --> 04:47:29.220
Well, right.

04:47:29.220 --> 04:47:30.220
I mean, seriously.

04:47:30.220 --> 04:47:31.220
They're just playing the game.

04:47:31.220 --> 04:47:32.220
If they check the boxes, right?

04:47:32.220 --> 04:47:33.220
But now, I have some really nice questions.

04:47:33.220 --> 04:47:34.220
As you can see, to change the rules for that, the answer is no.

04:47:34.220 --> 04:47:35.220
Okay.

04:47:35.220 --> 04:47:36.220
So that's just where we are now.

04:47:36.220 --> 04:47:37.220
Is there something we can look into?

04:47:37.220 --> 04:47:42.220
Davis to change the rules, but that answer is no.

04:47:44.819 --> 04:47:49.819
Okay, so that's just where we are now.

04:47:49.819 --> 04:47:56.180
Is there something we can look into?

04:48:11.250 --> 04:48:14.250
How exactly can we change this game for them?

04:48:14.250 --> 04:49:04.000
I feel like it's going to be a beautiful day.

04:49:04.000 --> 04:49:10.180
I feel like it's more, I mean, honestly, I have been trying to do this, I have been trying to do this for a long time, but it's really been a change that I've always wanted to make.

04:49:10.180 --> 04:49:11.180
Did he?

04:49:11.180 --> 04:49:12.180
Did he?

04:49:12.180 --> 04:49:13.180
Did he?

04:49:13.180 --> 04:49:14.180
Did he?

04:49:14.180 --> 04:49:15.180
Did he?

04:49:15.180 --> 04:49:16.180
Did he?

04:49:16.180 --> 04:49:17.180
Did he?

04:49:17.180 --> 04:49:18.180
Did he?

04:49:18.180 --> 04:49:19.180
Did he?

04:49:19.180 --> 04:49:20.180
Did he?

04:49:20.180 --> 04:49:21.180
Did he?

04:49:21.180 --> 04:49:22.180
Did he?

04:50:56.540 --> 04:51:00.540
That's awesome. Well, I wonder, because I just want to do the entire thing.

04:51:00.540 --> 04:51:02.540
I'm going to try this.

04:51:02.540 --> 04:51:04.540
But it's going to be the same wall.

04:51:04.540 --> 04:51:06.540
Well, it's going to be lots of different jobs.

04:51:06.540 --> 04:51:08.540
It's going to be a different situation.

04:51:08.540 --> 04:51:14.169
One of the candidates is going to have to leave it alone.

04:51:14.169 --> 04:51:18.169
So we just said that it's going to be a new position where we're going to have 10 of that team.

04:51:18.169 --> 04:51:20.169
So what are we going to do about last year?

04:51:20.169 --> 04:51:24.169
If you haven't heard about it, we've got 13, 14.

04:51:24.169 --> 04:51:26.169
That's a lot.

04:51:57.860 --> 04:51:59.860
That's what I would be.

04:53:32.220 --> 04:53:40.220
would have to be, because we don't have enough funding to say we can do some research, so we got to have a lot of money so they won't dig into us.

04:53:40.220 --> 04:53:44.220
I'm not going to try to sell you all of this, but you guys are going to have to do that.

04:53:44.220 --> 04:53:48.220
Right now, so, we can't, we can't do it.

04:53:48.220 --> 04:53:50.220
We're not going to cope with it all day.

04:53:50.220 --> 04:53:52.220
We're not going to support it.

04:53:52.220 --> 04:53:54.220
Yes.

04:53:54.220 --> 04:53:56.220
So now we can do more.

04:53:56.220 --> 04:54:01.220
Or we'll pay whatever it was, because the way those procurement contracts work is,

04:54:01.220 --> 04:54:02.220
Williams.

04:54:02.220 --> 04:54:07.220
So let's just say the Trump administration, you write in the chat, today it's about $500,000,

04:54:07.220 --> 04:54:12.220
but whatever the cost of that Trump administration, you've got to pay the money, though.

04:54:12.220 --> 04:54:13.220
Okay.

04:54:48.020 --> 04:54:51.020
and then I watch it.

04:54:51.020 --> 04:54:52.020
Okay.

04:54:52.020 --> 04:54:58.020
The bad thing, I chose the most original for the English community in the world.

04:54:58.020 --> 04:54:59.020
I appreciate it.

04:54:59.020 --> 04:55:00.020
You're going to have to be very patient.

04:55:00.020 --> 04:55:01.020
You're going to have to make the most of it.

04:55:01.020 --> 04:55:02.020
Yeah.

04:55:02.020 --> 04:55:03.020
I'm going to say that.

04:55:03.020 --> 04:55:04.020
You can take from A to Z.

04:55:04.020 --> 04:55:05.020
I can't do overriding.

04:55:05.020 --> 04:55:06.020
Because it's just a button.

04:55:06.020 --> 04:55:07.020
It's just a button.

04:55:07.020 --> 04:55:08.020
It's appropriate when you're a few years spending time.

04:55:08.020 --> 04:55:18.020
You can take, from 80s, if you override, because it's just the butt, it's just, it's appropriated when you approve the spending tax.

04:55:18.020 --> 04:55:20.020
and the rest of the group.

04:55:20.020 --> 04:55:25.020
You're managing the project and you're appreciating it.

04:55:25.020 --> 04:55:27.020
And I'm just going to go ahead and say thank you.

04:55:27.020 --> 04:55:29.020
And I'm going to go ahead and say thank you.

04:55:29.020 --> 04:55:31.020
And I'm going to go ahead and say thank you.

04:55:31.020 --> 04:55:33.020
No, I think it's just way over the top.

04:55:33.020 --> 04:55:37.639
It's one of the most important things.

04:55:37.639 --> 04:55:39.639
Go over it in five sections.

04:55:39.639 --> 04:55:41.639
Since the budget is in front of us,

04:55:41.639 --> 04:55:43.639
it goes into the L1.

04:55:43.639 --> 04:55:45.639
Since the budget is in front of us,

04:55:45.639 --> 04:55:47.639
it goes into the L1.

04:55:47.639 --> 04:56:20.599
Where's the money? Where's the money? That's what I wanna know. Okay, alright, we're recording.

04:56:20.599 --> 04:56:26.159
It is 1056. Madam Clerk, could you please call the roll in returning to open session?

04:56:26.159 --> 04:56:40.979
Madam Mayor? Here. Alderpersons, Klemm? Monroe? Simmons? Oh, I am so sorry, I'm not watching.

04:56:40.979 --> 04:56:49.180
Parker? Here. Stacy? Here. Shadle? Here. Sanders? Here. And Sellers? Here. We do have a quorum.

04:56:49.180 --> 04:56:57.180
Okay, item number 38 is adoption of resolution R2024.119. Could you please read this?

04:56:57.180 --> 04:57:05.180
Resolution ratifying collective bargaining agreement with the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, local number 884.

04:57:05.180 --> 04:57:07.180
Thank you. Manager Boyer.

04:57:07.180 --> 04:57:17.720
Thank you, Your Honor. Just before the council tonight is the negotiated contract with the Fraternal Order of Police.

04:57:17.720 --> 04:57:29.720
It includes a three-year contract with three step increases at 8 for 2025, 7 for 2026 and 7 for 2027.

04:57:29.720 --> 04:57:39.720
It also includes a uniform allowance increase totaling approximately $11,000 in total impact and a bilingual bonus.

04:57:39.720 --> 04:57:51.720
It also removes language related to the PEP medical plan, which is valued at about one and a half percent, so thank you.

04:57:51.720 --> 04:57:53.720
Is there a motion to adopt?

04:57:53.720 --> 04:57:54.720
So moved.

04:57:54.720 --> 04:57:55.720
Second.

04:57:55.720 --> 04:57:59.720
We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

04:57:59.720 --> 04:58:02.720
Discussion on the resolution. Alderman Monroe.

04:58:02.720 --> 04:58:08.720
City Manager Boyer, what is the total impact on the city for this, if this were to go through this room?

04:58:08.720 --> 04:58:17.139
approximately a million and a half dollars. Any other discussion? And we still have yet how

04:58:17.139 --> 04:58:27.020
many more contracts to discuss? We don't have any this year. But what contracts, how

04:58:27.020 --> 04:58:31.860
many contracts do we have coming up? Well we have AFSCME coming up and then fire

04:58:31.860 --> 04:58:42.610
following that. Any other discussion? Madam Clerk please take the roll. Oh I'm

04:58:42.610 --> 04:58:44.610
Sorry, I didn't see you, Alderman Klemm.

04:58:44.610 --> 04:58:49.419
I'm sorry?

04:58:49.419 --> 04:58:51.419
Rachel's not here.

04:58:51.419 --> 04:58:53.419
She's coming.

04:58:53.419 --> 04:59:00.380
Okay.

04:59:00.380 --> 04:59:32.779
I don't think we can afford this either way, but I'll say aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye.

04:59:32.779 --> 04:59:40.860
The resolution is adopted, 6 to 8, 6 to 2 for a total of 8, it's late.

04:59:40.860 --> 04:59:44.500
Okay since it is 11 o'clock I'll entertain a motion to adjourn.

04:59:44.500 --> 04:59:45.500
Second.

04:59:45.500 --> 04:59:49.020
Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle, all those in favor signify

04:59:49.020 --> 04:59:50.020
by saying aye.

04:59:50.020 --> 04:59:50.040
Aye.