WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:05.280 Oh, I guess I can't call it to order yet. Linda, are you doing invocation tonight? If you would go ahead, please. 00:00:09.710 --> 00:00:12.349 Manager Boyer and council members, let's bow our head. 00:00:12.910 --> 00:00:19.469 Generally, Father, I praise you and thank you for who you are and for your love for this city and the people who dwell here. 00:00:19.789 --> 00:00:26.710 Your heart is for blessing and peace and for all things to be done decently and in order. In the name of Jesus, 00:00:26.710 --> 00:00:28.589 we bind any confusion, 00:00:28.589 --> 00:00:31.469 misunderstanding, anger, and chaos, and we lose order, 00:00:31.469 --> 00:00:32.469 Miller. 00:00:32.469 --> 00:00:39.969 Let righteousness prevail here for your word says in Isaiah 32 that the effect of righteousness 00:00:39.969 --> 00:00:45.509 will be peace and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. 00:00:45.509 --> 00:00:52.030 My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings and in quiet resting places. 00:00:52.030 --> 00:00:57.109 Let it be so here tonight according to your word in Jesus' name, amen. 00:00:57.109 --> 00:00:58.710 Amen. 00:00:58.710 --> 00:01:06.510 Now that it is 6.10, I will call this meeting to order in the absence of Mayor Miller, Alderpersons 00:01:06.510 --> 00:01:07.510 present. 00:01:07.510 --> 00:01:08.510 Klemm? 00:01:08.510 --> 00:01:09.510 Here. 00:01:09.510 --> 00:01:10.510 Monroe is absent. 00:01:10.510 --> 00:01:11.510 Simmons? 00:01:11.510 --> 00:01:12.510 Here. 00:01:12.510 --> 00:01:13.510 Parker? 00:01:13.510 --> 00:01:14.510 Here. 00:01:14.510 --> 00:01:15.510 Stacy? 00:01:15.510 --> 00:01:16.510 Present. 00:01:16.510 --> 00:01:17.510 Shadle? 00:01:17.510 --> 00:01:18.510 Here. 00:01:18.510 --> 00:01:19.510 Sanders? 00:01:19.510 --> 00:01:20.510 Here. 00:01:20.510 --> 00:01:21.510 And Sellers? 00:01:21.510 --> 00:01:22.510 Here. 00:01:22.510 --> 00:01:23.510 We do have a quorum. 00:01:23.510 --> 00:01:24.510 Tonight's chairperson will be Alderperson Shadle. 00:01:24.510 --> 00:01:25.510 Could you lead the Pledge of Allegiance? 00:01:25.510 --> 00:01:26.510 If you could join me, please. 00:01:26.510 --> 00:01:49.579 I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 00:02:08.129 --> 00:02:16.689 Klemm second by Sellers. Voice vote's fine. Yes. All in favor? Aye. Opposed? 00:02:16.689 --> 00:02:30.340 That? Opposed. One opposed? Motion pass. Item five would be approval of the 00:02:30.340 --> 00:02:38.139 minutes from the Committee of the Whole meeting, head on October 15, 2024. So move. 00:02:38.139 --> 00:02:47.259 by Clem second by Parker all in favor all right opposed motion carries on that 00:02:47.259 --> 00:02:54.020 item six is public comments if we could limit to three minutes please first on 00:02:54.020 --> 00:03:08.449 the list to be Josh Atkinson thank you mr. chair I guess I'm gonna be speaking 00:03:08.449 --> 00:03:13.729 to an empty chair here tonight thank you mr. chair council city staff my name is 00:03:13.729 --> 00:03:19.409 Joshua Atkinson. I am here today to speak on to agenda item number nine. Each member 00:03:19.409 --> 00:03:24.530 here has been chosen by the people of Freeport to represent the residents in their wards. 00:03:24.530 --> 00:03:29.409 You have the responsibility not only to speak on behalf of we the people, but also to hold 00:03:29.409 --> 00:03:35.409 this administration accountable. As the mayor acknowledged last week, the current, last 00:03:35.409 --> 00:03:40.889 week, the current rules of council have been ignored and neglected for nearly a decade, 00:03:40.889 --> 00:03:52.889 I commend the mayor for suddenly wanting efficient, respectful, and productive council meetings. 00:03:52.889 --> 00:03:56.650 However, this attitude is eight years overdue. 00:03:56.650 --> 00:04:02.650 The mayor has failed to chair the council with respect to these rules. 00:04:02.650 --> 00:04:08.250 Rather than owning and apologizing for this mistake, or even fining herself, the administration 00:04:08.250 --> 00:04:12.810 is now attempting to silence not only our council members, but the people of Freeport 00:04:12.810 --> 00:04:18.870 themselves. Our elected officials, especially those backed by the Citizens' Party, our local 00:04:18.870 --> 00:04:25.610 MAGA Republicans, often go unchallenged. Council has sat by while family members, friends and 00:04:25.610 --> 00:04:31.569 campaign donors seem to be the only ones benefiting from our local leadership. This toe-the-party 00:04:31.569 --> 00:04:37.269 line approach has left our historic city in a dire state. 00:04:37.269 --> 00:04:46.790 To those in this chamber who prefer the status quo of compliance, this is a reality check. 00:04:46.790 --> 00:04:52.709 Local government, if done right, is hard work. It's frustrating. It's full of challenges 00:04:52.709 --> 00:04:57.990 and that's exactly what you signed up for when you asked 23,000 people to trust you 00:04:57.990 --> 00:05:03.829 to represent them. Serving the community is not a hobby. It's a full-time commitment, 00:05:03.829 --> 00:05:07.110 no matter the part-time title or the low pay. 00:05:07.110 --> 00:05:10.709 Many fear that after this last national election, 00:05:10.709 --> 00:05:13.509 those that continue to hide behind terms like citizens 00:05:13.509 --> 00:05:16.569 or people's party would feel emboldened. 00:05:16.569 --> 00:05:20.370 Sadly, this seems to be coming true. 00:05:20.370 --> 00:05:23.370 As the administration attempts to reinforce policies 00:05:23.370 --> 00:05:25.230 that work against low-income families, 00:05:25.230 --> 00:05:27.509 young parents, marginalized communities, 00:05:27.509 --> 00:05:30.470 especially the Hispanic and black populations, 00:05:30.470 --> 00:05:33.230 Every one of us deserve to have our voices heard. 00:05:34.310 --> 00:05:37.990 Mayor Miller, instead of attempting to silence 00:05:37.990 --> 00:05:42.110 those who disagree with you, consider a different path. 00:05:42.110 --> 00:05:46.829 In your final months, work to earn their trust and respect. 00:05:46.829 --> 00:05:48.670 Council, I urge you to stand up 00:05:48.670 --> 00:05:50.949 and stop this item from moving forward. 00:05:50.949 --> 00:05:53.670 And next year, we will work together 00:05:53.670 --> 00:05:55.670 to make Freeport a place where every resident 00:05:55.670 --> 00:05:58.610 has the opportunity for their voice to be heard. 00:05:58.610 --> 00:06:01.540 Thank you. 00:06:01.540 --> 00:06:02.540 Thank you. 00:06:02.540 --> 00:06:12.069 Next is Diane Yocum. 00:06:12.069 --> 00:06:18.350 My name is Diane Yocum as stated and thank you Mr. Chair and members of the council. 00:06:18.350 --> 00:06:24.430 I come here with a lot of questions as I look at the wording in this particular format that 00:06:24.430 --> 00:06:30.350 we have here in this ordinance amending a good part of what is presently on the books 00:06:30.350 --> 00:06:31.350 as is. 00:06:31.350 --> 00:06:36.709 I have questions about what does city with the council being struck out mean? 00:06:36.709 --> 00:06:38.709 does that mean one person gets to decide? 00:06:38.709 --> 00:06:40.949 Does that mean two people get to decide 00:06:40.949 --> 00:06:44.649 rather than the council gets to decide certain issues? 00:06:44.649 --> 00:06:48.790 And I find that some of these chances of, 00:06:48.790 --> 00:06:51.610 has already been commented on restricting people's 00:06:51.610 --> 00:06:56.129 opportunity to speak their mind or to speak. 00:06:56.129 --> 00:06:59.829 And certainly it's already in the ordinance as it stands 00:06:59.829 --> 00:07:03.230 that they each have so many minutes and so forth. 00:07:03.230 --> 00:07:07.550 and I think it becomes more repressive and oppressive 00:07:07.550 --> 00:07:11.449 as I go on and read some of what's in this presently 00:07:11.449 --> 00:07:15.509 because I do think it is a chance to squelch people's voices 00:07:15.509 --> 00:07:18.449 and especially they might be people 00:07:18.449 --> 00:07:21.430 that certain ones aren't too happy with. 00:07:21.430 --> 00:07:23.949 And so you wanna make sure that they are shut down 00:07:23.949 --> 00:07:25.910 as quickly as possible. 00:07:25.910 --> 00:07:28.829 And another question, is an abstention vote 00:07:28.829 --> 00:07:32.290 and I have a question for you. Is an abstain considered a 00:07:32.290 --> 00:07:36.930 violation of the vote? Is that part of a considered part of a 00:07:36.930 --> 00:07:40.670 vote? And as someone abstains, do they then get fined for 00:07:40.670 --> 00:07:46.470 choosing to abstain from a vote? There are lots of pieces in 00:07:46.470 --> 00:07:50.389 here. I questioned, very much so. I think this has been a 00:07:50.389 --> 00:07:55.009 punitive piece based on a knee-jerk reaction from last 00:07:55.009 --> 00:08:02.009 and I have not so well thought through and I oppose it deeply and I think it does not 00:08:02.009 --> 00:08:03.790 represent us well. 00:08:03.790 --> 00:08:08.930 I don't think it represents all the people here well and I've seen the fingerprints 00:08:08.930 --> 00:08:14.370 of some of the language that seems to be a little more intense on some of these things 00:08:14.370 --> 00:08:20.449 that may have behind the scenes people who may be trying to pressure something to go 00:08:20.449 --> 00:08:23.509 through that does not need to go through. 00:08:23.509 --> 00:08:30.509 and so I really have serious concerns about this overall, very, very serious concerns 00:08:30.509 --> 00:08:36.389 and I am obviously very distressed to see this document and personally I think it needs 00:08:36.389 --> 00:08:42.070 to go into the waste bin right over there and not be voted upon but I don't have that 00:08:42.070 --> 00:08:48.889 opportunity nor do you. You have to vote. I ask you to vote against this document. You 00:08:48.889 --> 00:08:55.450 already have things on the record in the book that tells you what you can do. 00:08:55.450 --> 00:08:57.529 Thank you. 00:08:57.529 --> 00:08:58.529 Thank you. 00:08:58.529 --> 00:09:08.309 Makiya Stacey. 00:09:08.309 --> 00:09:09.730 Good evening. 00:09:09.730 --> 00:09:13.830 For the three months I've been back in Freeport, I have witnessed firsthand the amount of deception, 00:09:13.830 --> 00:09:17.129 silencing, and straight-up bullying by members of this council. 00:09:17.129 --> 00:09:20.649 Everyone in front of me was fairly elected by the people of Freeport, but not everyone 00:09:20.649 --> 00:09:24.850 here's goal to make Freeport a better city, which you've been justly called out on. 00:09:24.850 --> 00:09:28.990 These proposed ordinances are a direct punishment for anyone who speaks against Mayor Miller 00:09:28.990 --> 00:09:30.730 and City Manager Boyer. 00:09:30.730 --> 00:09:35.009 You don't like being questioned, so the answer to that is to shut them up financially. 00:09:35.009 --> 00:09:38.129 I understand the meetings would go faster if they were more orderly, but that's not 00:09:38.129 --> 00:09:39.350 the problem here. 00:09:39.350 --> 00:09:42.909 The problem is your lies being questioned, and no one likes being questioned, especially 00:09:42.909 --> 00:09:45.129 when they get caught up in the lie. 00:09:45.129 --> 00:09:48.929 I personally suggest making topics on the agenda clearer, with no personal motives being 00:09:48.929 --> 00:09:53.450 proposed, and being prepared to answer valid questions about these topics. 00:09:53.450 --> 00:09:56.269 You guys were elected to be the voice, not silence them. 00:09:56.269 --> 00:09:58.129 Please do better for the citizens of Freeport. 00:09:58.129 --> 00:10:13.139 thank you Marcus Signer I would like to say I don't think that is a good idea 00:10:13.139 --> 00:10:18.100 everyone should be able to talk and say what's going on in the community I can 00:10:18.100 --> 00:10:22.059 just see people getting fined if they don't if the mayor doesn't like it or 00:10:22.059 --> 00:10:26.860 just alone if she don't like you or have conflict I see it all over the city and 00:10:26.860 --> 00:10:31.940 I'm praying that doesn't go into effect I understand that a lot of people are all 00:10:31.940 --> 00:11:01.940 We've seen it when it was basically all Republicans in here, if he says he wants something, they're gonna put on an image, like five of them agree, and then two other friends are gonna say no, to just put up an image, we're tired of it, you know, and I come today to ask you, we're praying for this city, can you guys please step it up, with these young people getting killed out here. I'm seeing, going past, what is that, Galena, I don't know if that's the name of the city, 00:11:01.940 --> 00:11:05.899 where there's there are like two cars deep in parking lots if there's a lot 00:11:05.899 --> 00:11:10.139 in areas that need to be protected why are we all partying together and talking 00:11:10.139 --> 00:11:15.700 that I feel like that is unnecessary and like I said I just pray for the city and 00:11:15.700 --> 00:11:21.460 you guys come up with the best the best option for us and obviously that one 00:11:21.460 --> 00:11:26.740 just not be able to talk or tell them what's on their mind or I could just 00:11:26.740 --> 00:11:31.180 imagine how we can have an officer like been happening we come in here and tell 00:11:31.180 --> 00:11:37.180 I can't tell you guys what's going on, but Jodi's friends with most of them, so we can just imagine what's going to happen. 00:11:37.180 --> 00:11:44.180 We can, like, it's sad. And I feel like as a community, a lot of us should go out for other things. 00:11:44.180 --> 00:11:52.180 Like, why does a clerk get this job every year? Because no one goes for it. Let's start going for it, you know, instead of the same people getting in the office. 00:11:52.180 --> 00:12:00.180 Shouldn't be where I see Jodi Miller's friend who gives out tickets. He gets that job, or someone else, another city job, they get the job. 00:12:00.180 --> 00:12:03.180 It's sad. Let's just all get it together, please. 00:12:03.180 --> 00:12:06.819 Thank you. Eddie York. 00:12:06.819 --> 00:12:20.899 Hi, ladies and gentlemen, during the day. My name is Eddie York. 00:12:20.899 --> 00:12:25.899 I can honestly say that I am a product of Freeport. I've been here since 1986. 00:12:25.899 --> 00:12:29.899 And don't get me wrong, I've done some good and bad things. 00:12:29.899 --> 00:12:33.899 But now that since I've been home, I'm on a positive note trying to do good. 00:12:33.899 --> 00:12:38.899 There's a lot of things that I see, as far as our mayor, is not stepping up, 00:12:38.899 --> 00:12:40.860 but doing her responsibilities. 00:12:40.860 --> 00:12:44.819 She neglecting a lot of things that I see, you know what I'm saying? 00:12:44.819 --> 00:12:49.259 So it's more as like, I don't really know how to talk to people, but I'm going to do 00:12:49.259 --> 00:12:50.259 my best. 00:12:50.259 --> 00:12:54.779 So it's like, what I'm saying is that in my product, in my environment, where I come from, 00:12:54.779 --> 00:13:03.419 from Galena State, Carroll, Iroquois, Prospect, Benton, Liberty, we don't get the same privileges 00:13:03.419 --> 00:13:06.539 as y'all get. 00:13:06.539 --> 00:13:07.539 You know what I'm saying? 00:13:07.539 --> 00:13:12.279 We got areas in our community where you step outside, you can't see your hand in front 00:13:12.279 --> 00:13:13.279 of you. 00:13:13.279 --> 00:13:16.139 There's no stop, no light. 00:13:16.139 --> 00:13:20.100 But then when you call to ask for one to be put there, what can you do to get one, it's 00:13:20.100 --> 00:13:24.600 always you led to a whole other subject. 00:13:24.600 --> 00:13:28.419 You know, and then when it comes to dealing with the properties, people trying to get 00:13:28.419 --> 00:13:32.519 properties like to buy to help report. 00:13:32.519 --> 00:13:36.680 We don't get them, but Ms. Miller friends get them for pennies on a dollar. 00:13:36.680 --> 00:13:37.519 Why is that? 00:13:38.620 --> 00:13:41.259 I should have the same rights that her friends have. 00:13:41.259 --> 00:13:42.319 If my money not good, 00:13:42.319 --> 00:13:44.819 their debt shouldn't be good either. 00:13:44.819 --> 00:13:46.819 Especially if I'm doing something positive. 00:13:46.819 --> 00:13:49.100 If I'm trying to help the community. 00:13:49.100 --> 00:13:52.220 Look how many young black kids have died in the last, 00:13:52.220 --> 00:13:54.299 I've been home now two years. 00:13:54.299 --> 00:13:55.740 Look how many young black kids have died 00:13:55.740 --> 00:13:56.799 in the last two years. 00:13:57.980 --> 00:13:58.819 Over 10. 00:14:00.019 --> 00:14:02.940 Because we don't have nothing to give them. 00:14:02.940 --> 00:14:05.340 I am the streets. 00:14:05.340 --> 00:14:06.220 We have nothing to give. 00:14:06.220 --> 00:14:08.580 you have nothing to give a kid. 00:14:08.580 --> 00:14:10.779 It's like you have a temp tantrum. 00:14:10.779 --> 00:14:12.740 I need something to do. 00:14:12.740 --> 00:14:13.659 And they don't know what to do 00:14:13.659 --> 00:14:17.940 because you have immature older guys, lead them astray. 00:14:17.940 --> 00:14:19.500 So the first thing they do is pick up a gun 00:14:19.500 --> 00:14:21.039 and they want to go bang, bang, bang. 00:14:21.039 --> 00:14:23.480 Not knowing you shooting your best friend. 00:14:23.480 --> 00:14:24.839 You shooting a guy you can eight with, 00:14:24.839 --> 00:14:26.100 off the same spoon with. 00:14:27.460 --> 00:14:29.299 You have no activity for kids to do. 00:14:30.379 --> 00:14:32.139 Give a kid something to do. 00:14:32.139 --> 00:14:33.139 Help the police force. 00:14:33.139 --> 00:14:35.200 The police can't do all this by themselves. 00:14:35.200 --> 00:14:38.120 and that's what y'all community, y'all council think. 00:14:39.319 --> 00:14:41.379 They only one man, one body. 00:14:41.379 --> 00:14:42.279 They can't do it all. 00:14:42.279 --> 00:14:45.519 Hire more police, giving them more funding. 00:14:45.519 --> 00:14:47.120 That's why people don't trust police now 00:14:47.120 --> 00:14:48.799 because y'all don't give a crap. 00:14:50.039 --> 00:14:51.920 They need to be out there talking to us. 00:14:51.920 --> 00:14:53.759 They need to be out there communicating to us. 00:14:53.759 --> 00:14:55.120 You need to build a trust. 00:14:55.120 --> 00:14:56.160 They can't do that. 00:14:56.160 --> 00:14:58.079 When they try to do it, people back up 00:14:58.079 --> 00:15:00.120 because it's like, okay, they're here for one minute. 00:15:00.120 --> 00:15:01.240 Then they go on the next minute 00:15:01.240 --> 00:15:05.049 and we don't see them again for another week. 00:15:05.049 --> 00:15:07.450 and then we get fined when we try to do something positive 00:15:07.450 --> 00:15:11.649 for kids like open venues to throw little gigs for kids 00:15:11.649 --> 00:15:14.470 where there's none violence, I do security. 00:15:14.470 --> 00:15:16.170 I'm a licensed security officer now. 00:15:17.129 --> 00:15:20.049 What I do is I try to help my sister 00:15:20.049 --> 00:15:24.289 throw little get togethers for kids 00:15:24.289 --> 00:15:25.569 to keep the kids off the street. 00:15:25.569 --> 00:15:27.129 I could bring 100 kids in here right now 00:15:27.129 --> 00:15:29.029 with one phone call and they'll tell you 00:15:29.029 --> 00:15:31.610 we have not had one fight, one disagreement, 00:15:31.610 --> 00:15:33.889 police have not been called 00:15:33.889 --> 00:15:36.529 and I'm the only security guard there, period. 00:15:36.529 --> 00:15:39.149 Because I say what I say and I mean what I say. 00:15:39.149 --> 00:15:41.269 You come in here disrupting, fighting, acting crazy, 00:15:41.269 --> 00:15:43.190 get out, you can't come back. 00:15:43.190 --> 00:15:44.990 Mr. York, the three minutes. 00:15:44.990 --> 00:15:48.170 Okay, but my thing is, can y'all please come together, man, 00:15:48.170 --> 00:15:49.450 and try to do something for this city 00:15:49.450 --> 00:15:53.490 because you say y'all a council, prove it. 00:15:53.490 --> 00:15:56.789 Be a council, help them, help the fire departments. 00:15:57.970 --> 00:15:59.970 People come out, have more celebrations. 00:15:59.970 --> 00:16:01.970 I went to Rockford and did they hold police, 00:16:01.970 --> 00:16:07.089 and Rockford. And they had over a thousand people out coming to represent the police. 00:16:07.089 --> 00:16:15.839 Thank you. We don't do that here in Freeport. Item number seven, discussion regarding ordinance 00:16:15.839 --> 00:16:24.240 amending part six, general offenses, chapter 694 weeds and grass of the codified ordinances 00:16:24.240 --> 00:16:33.639 by adding a new section 694.08 to be entitled vegetation and managed natural landscape and 00:16:33.639 --> 00:16:38.639 and amending chapter 694.01, excuse me, 00:16:38.920 --> 00:16:42.279 nuisance declared for the purpose 00:16:42.279 --> 00:16:45.079 of allowing planned natural landscaping 00:16:45.079 --> 00:16:48.799 while prohibiting uncontrolled growth of vegetation. 00:16:49.660 --> 00:16:51.200 Manager Boyer. 00:16:51.200 --> 00:16:52.600 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 00:16:52.600 --> 00:16:56.420 This ordinance is kind of a cut and paste 00:16:56.420 --> 00:16:59.160 from recommended best practices from other communities. 00:16:59.160 --> 00:17:02.759 What this does is it gives our community 00:17:02.759 --> 00:17:09.059 code enforcement officer, an opportunity to be more clear about the yards that are overgrown 00:17:09.059 --> 00:17:15.019 and take care of areas that are need to be mowed and that, but it also gives the property 00:17:15.019 --> 00:17:21.680 owner the opportunity to plant various pollinator species and to increase the ecosystem in their 00:17:21.680 --> 00:17:24.139 own little in their own little area. 00:17:24.139 --> 00:17:27.880 So city staff has just brought this before council. 00:17:27.880 --> 00:17:34.759 It's kind of a win-win. It helps our environment. It also works well with our MS4 permit. It 00:17:34.759 --> 00:17:40.119 clarifies our ordinance on overgrown weeds and things like that, but it also doesn't 00:17:40.119 --> 00:17:45.119 kill off the idea of, hey, we want a garden here that still allows for people to have 00:17:45.119 --> 00:17:54.319 gardens and to have little areas that are native plant species. So essentially, it also 00:17:54.319 --> 00:17:59.440 also eliminates native species from the parkways where they're not real appropriate. They 00:17:59.440 --> 00:18:04.839 tend to grow up, get overgrown. They sometimes can be a hindrance in terms of blocking the 00:18:04.839 --> 00:18:09.839 view of traffic to the pedestrians alongside walking at. So this kind of clears up a lot 00:18:09.839 --> 00:18:16.160 of things and staff recommends moving this on for first reading. 00:18:16.160 --> 00:18:23.720 Thank you. I'm recalling an email that came out earlier this summer, kind of bringing 00:18:23.720 --> 00:18:35.679 this to the forefront as a request it's nice to see that come through. Any 00:18:35.679 --> 00:19:01.380 discussion? Alderman Stacey. I don't feel that this should even be considered not 00:19:01.380 --> 00:19:17.019 until the city properties are kept up to the same standards. I have taken right 00:19:17.019 --> 00:19:29.539 after right through the east side of town and it looked like a freaking jungle. 00:19:29.539 --> 00:19:44.849 and then we're told that $5,000 was budgeted for this, to do the mowing and to get the 00:19:44.849 --> 00:19:57.860 weeds cut down and to keep it looking nice for the 2024 budget year and that one penny 00:19:57.860 --> 00:20:07.789 Penny was used. Why is that city manager, Boyer? Why? When the East Side was just a 00:20:07.789 --> 00:20:17.799 jungle. Areas that we own, the city owns, not taken care of all summer long. And now 00:20:17.799 --> 00:20:26.400 you want to talk about planting some flowers? When are we gonna do what we're 00:20:26.400 --> 00:20:37.480 We're supposed to do as a city for all areas of the city, for all the property, not just 00:20:37.480 --> 00:20:45.789 the property that the city owns here and there, but there also. 00:20:45.789 --> 00:20:50.559 Help me understand. 00:20:50.559 --> 00:20:55.319 Just to answer your question, when lots are called in for overgrowth, the city comes in 00:20:55.319 --> 00:20:58.880 and mows them, whether it doesn't have to be a city lot. 00:20:58.880 --> 00:21:05.000 We had excellent work from our summer mowers. They did a fantastic job. There was really 00:21:05.000 --> 00:21:10.240 three of them total. One of them was at the cemetery almost the entire time. And two of 00:21:10.240 --> 00:21:14.440 our summer helpers pretty much maintained every city-owned lot out there outside of 00:21:14.440 --> 00:21:20.220 the utility. In the past, we have people that don't maintain their properties. When it grows 00:21:20.220 --> 00:21:25.799 up, people call it in. We come out, we mow it within seven days. That's been the policy. 00:21:25.799 --> 00:21:32.519 All this is, is the opportunity to provide the residents an opportunity to kind of expand 00:21:32.519 --> 00:21:39.039 their gardening skills, plant natural native species in their yard, and then to also, it 00:21:39.039 --> 00:21:40.680 removes those from the parkway. 00:21:40.680 --> 00:21:45.019 We have some residents that are planting native species in the parkway, and we really don't 00:21:45.019 --> 00:21:50.279 have a tool to deal with that, and this kind of revises and corrects all of that. 00:21:50.279 --> 00:21:53.480 So to answer your question, we have to do it both. 00:21:53.480 --> 00:21:58.319 We have to mow and we also have to take care of some of these natural naturescapes that 00:21:58.319 --> 00:22:01.519 people have planted so they don't, you know, maybe they feel like they don't want to mow 00:22:01.519 --> 00:22:02.519 the parkway. 00:22:02.519 --> 00:22:05.119 They plant naturescape in there and there's no recourse. 00:22:05.119 --> 00:22:09.480 This allows us to make sure that's in the appropriate locations. 00:22:09.480 --> 00:22:11.680 Alderman Sellers. 00:22:11.680 --> 00:22:18.160 I think also the misunderstanding is a lot of the properties that are on the east side, 00:22:18.160 --> 00:22:21.099 they are under the flood mitigation grant. 00:22:21.099 --> 00:22:24.150 Is that correct? 00:22:24.150 --> 00:22:29.150 that's correct so those that's wetlands so they will get like that and they will 00:22:29.150 --> 00:22:35.230 be like that that's what it is so that's why I know there I had a phone call from 00:22:35.230 --> 00:22:42.589 someone that wanted their lawns mowed and because that is considered because of 00:22:42.589 --> 00:22:47.630 the grant wetlands it's gonna grow up like weeds and stuff because that's what 00:22:47.630 --> 00:22:48.630 Boyer. 00:22:48.630 --> 00:22:49.630 Is that correct? 00:22:49.630 --> 00:22:53.630 Am I correct with that? 00:22:53.630 --> 00:23:01.110 Well, I worked with City Manager Boyer, and basically what happens is there's city-owned 00:23:01.110 --> 00:23:06.829 properties, which is the east side properties that we're talking about, and you also have 00:23:06.829 --> 00:23:10.630 city lots that have been bought over the years from houses that were demolished. 00:23:10.630 --> 00:23:15.269 And essentially what happens is exactly what City Manager Boyer said is that we're going 00:23:15.269 --> 00:23:25.269 We're mowing our own properties and then we're also mowing properties where people do not mow them, they get a violation so the city has to go out and mow those properties and then the property owners find. 00:23:25.269 --> 00:23:31.269 So I think the answer to your question is yes, those properties that the city owns are being mowed. 00:23:31.269 --> 00:23:39.269 However, it's at a schedule that Manager Boyer has kind of put together to make sure that they're mowed in a timely fashion. 00:23:39.269 --> 00:23:52.730 Fashin. And yes, there are going to be some properties that are going to be wooded, that are going to be in wetland areas that are not necessarily going to be mowed. I don't know if that answers your question, because we're talking about quite a bit of properties, but I hope it's shed some light for you. 00:23:54.089 --> 00:23:54.950 Alderman Sanders. 00:23:54.950 --> 00:24:03.789 Are you saying that, um, even though they're considered in places where, um, considered 00:24:03.789 --> 00:24:10.910 wetland while growing wild and on companies, on city property and things like that, we 00:24:10.910 --> 00:24:15.069 cannot maintain these areas is what you, is what we're saying. 00:24:15.069 --> 00:24:16.069 I'm not saying that. 00:24:16.069 --> 00:24:21.309 Well, I, I, that's the inference that I'm getting is that we cannot go in and do any 00:24:21.309 --> 00:24:22.309 and many more. 00:24:22.309 --> 00:24:25.630 We have not done any form of maintenance or attempt because we have not done an assessment 00:24:25.630 --> 00:24:33.990 nor or survey to, if we have not, if we don't, if we're not trying to get in a position to 00:24:33.990 --> 00:24:43.610 maintain these properties, then we cannot, we cannot balance the difference between residents 00:24:43.610 --> 00:24:44.610 and city. 00:24:44.610 --> 00:24:51.150 I don't care how much construction or maintenance city has to take care, but we are expecting 00:24:51.150 --> 00:24:54.430 the citizens of Freeport to maintain their property 00:24:54.430 --> 00:24:58.470 to a standard because what happens is violations 00:24:58.470 --> 00:25:02.389 start to come into play and if that's the case, 00:25:02.389 --> 00:25:07.309 who is taking care of city structure 00:25:07.309 --> 00:25:10.889 and making sure that they are in appliance 00:25:10.889 --> 00:25:14.309 with all the things that our residents are getting? 00:25:14.309 --> 00:25:17.430 We don't wanna see a double standard taking place here. 00:25:17.430 --> 00:25:20.910 What we wanna see is that the city is doing their part 00:25:20.910 --> 00:25:25.589 without excuses, without being complete about it. 00:25:25.589 --> 00:25:29.829 And if we got money in the budget 00:25:29.829 --> 00:25:32.150 to maintain these kinds of things, 00:25:32.150 --> 00:25:34.710 then we should see something happening 00:25:34.710 --> 00:25:39.710 and not come to council talking about this and that 00:25:40.230 --> 00:25:42.589 and not talking about the main issues. 00:25:42.589 --> 00:25:45.029 And so that's where I'm at right now. 00:25:45.029 --> 00:25:47.589 Alder, is there a particular lot you have an issue with 00:25:47.589 --> 00:25:53.950 that you need us to look at? 00:25:53.950 --> 00:25:55.049 Would you like to respond? 00:25:55.049 --> 00:26:02.490 yeah well it's your job to do your job not me to do your job in the fact that 00:26:02.490 --> 00:26:11.450 if we're doing this of the surveys to determine where what areas should we get 00:26:11.450 --> 00:26:17.930 involved in and maintaining then it it's nothing that we should be looking at is 00:26:17.930 --> 00:26:22.690 something that your job is already in place to do all right sounds like I've 00:26:22.690 --> 00:26:26.329 I've done my job since you don't have a lot that's a problem. 00:26:26.329 --> 00:26:28.089 So there is no such lots. 00:26:28.089 --> 00:26:28.930 Alderman Simmons. 00:26:28.930 --> 00:26:30.490 I'm sorry, I'm sorry. 00:26:30.490 --> 00:26:34.809 All right, we are extremely and far off topic. 00:26:34.809 --> 00:26:39.410 But while we are there, I will say that this past summer, 00:26:39.410 --> 00:26:43.970 the lots of houses that were torn down, 00:26:43.970 --> 00:26:48.450 they were on what seemed to be a schedule to get cut. 00:26:48.450 --> 00:26:49.410 They have been cut. 00:26:49.410 --> 00:26:51.889 That is a stipulation of the grant. 00:26:51.889 --> 00:26:56.210 They still have to give city services in that area until everyone is gone. 00:26:56.210 --> 00:26:59.009 So that'll be done. 00:26:59.009 --> 00:27:04.970 The lots that you're talking about with all the cars and stuff, that's for, we've been 00:27:04.970 --> 00:27:05.970 talking about that. 00:27:05.970 --> 00:27:08.089 That's for a totally different conversation. 00:27:08.089 --> 00:27:16.369 I think if I'm right, this conversation is just to let homeowners plant different types 00:27:16.369 --> 00:27:21.170 of grass in their yards as an option. 00:27:21.170 --> 00:27:27.470 What you're saying is definitely a conversation we need to have and we need to bring that 00:27:27.470 --> 00:27:36.170 up as an agenda item to request action for things that we want done, but right now it's 00:27:36.170 --> 00:27:37.710 in their grasp. 00:27:37.710 --> 00:27:41.150 But I do want to commend city manager on that. 00:27:41.150 --> 00:27:48.329 The lots of houses that were torn down over there around by the projects, it took a few 00:27:48.329 --> 00:28:11.619 Yes, I just want to say there are a couple lots already on the east side of town that's 00:28:11.619 --> 00:28:18.769 been sprinkled with seeds and flowers are there. 00:28:18.769 --> 00:28:30.440 and they're housing a lot of rodents. 00:28:30.440 --> 00:28:37.059 So that's how I feel about it. 00:28:38.279 --> 00:28:39.759 Mr. Chair. 00:28:39.759 --> 00:28:40.599 Alderman Klemm. 00:28:40.599 --> 00:28:41.440 Yeah, if I could. 00:28:42.400 --> 00:28:45.240 I think as Alderman Simmons says, 00:28:45.240 --> 00:28:47.679 we're mixing up about two, three things here, 00:28:47.679 --> 00:28:52.139 but I would like to have more discussion on this privately 00:28:52.139 --> 00:28:56.400 because of what I understand. 00:28:56.400 --> 00:28:58.200 I understand the whole gardening thing 00:28:58.200 --> 00:28:59.779 and I understand that. 00:28:59.779 --> 00:29:02.799 I understand the different prairie grasses, 00:29:02.799 --> 00:29:04.019 all that kind of stuff. 00:29:05.039 --> 00:29:06.799 One of the things I see, 00:29:06.799 --> 00:29:11.240 I can talk to you about a house that currently has that. 00:29:11.240 --> 00:29:13.679 And it just sticks out in the neighborhood 00:29:13.679 --> 00:29:15.539 like a sore thumb, you know, 00:29:15.539 --> 00:29:19.440 cause they can say I don't have to mow it as prairie grass. 00:29:19.440 --> 00:29:21.179 You know, that's the way it's supposed to be. 00:29:21.179 --> 00:29:24.559 So I understand what you're trying to do. 00:29:24.559 --> 00:29:29.320 And I understand the not getting stuff done, 00:29:29.320 --> 00:29:33.799 but I will say that the guys that I have talked to 00:29:33.799 --> 00:29:38.159 and dealt with on the city lots have done a great job 00:29:38.159 --> 00:29:40.440 but keep in mind one other thing that we've got here 00:29:40.440 --> 00:29:43.799 in the city of Freeport that we have to deal with 00:29:43.799 --> 00:29:46.000 is the lots that the county owns 00:29:46.000 --> 00:29:48.119 from property sales that aren't sold. 00:29:48.119 --> 00:29:50.480 And they only mow them, I believe the minimum 00:29:50.480 --> 00:29:53.480 once every six weeks or once every two months. 00:29:53.480 --> 00:29:56.039 So that creates a problem for us. 00:29:56.039 --> 00:30:03.119 that creates a problem for us. It makes the city look bad, but it also gives our guys more work to do in the same sense. Thank you. 00:30:04.079 --> 00:30:19.859 Did you have anything else, Director Duckman? No. Okay. Were you looking for this to get moved on 00:30:19.859 --> 00:30:27.140 to this first reading of an ordinance? Yes. Bring it up for discussion at the next council meeting. 00:30:27.140 --> 00:30:43.990 I would make a motion to move it forward for discussion because we can always discuss it, you can always lay it over, we can always have discussions with the city manager or with Mr. Duckman on what we believe should be happening. 00:30:43.990 --> 00:30:45.990 Second. 00:30:45.990 --> 00:30:54.990 We have a motion by Klemm and a second by Sellers to move this on. Do we need a... 00:30:54.990 --> 00:31:00.990 Voice vote should be fine, unless we're really split. Would you like a roll call, Attorney Sito? 00:31:00.990 --> 00:31:02.990 Could we just do a roll call, please? 00:31:02.990 --> 00:31:15.359 I'll start with Shadle. 00:31:15.359 --> 00:31:17.359 Aye. 00:31:17.359 --> 00:31:19.359 Sanders? 00:31:19.359 --> 00:31:23.089 Repeat which one it is. 00:31:23.089 --> 00:31:31.089 The motion, the motion for the ordinance that we've been discussing regarding vegetation and natural landscape 00:31:31.089 --> 00:31:36.750 has been proposed to be moved to the November 11th meeting for further 00:31:36.750 --> 00:31:42.750 discussion. November 11th? No, can't be November 11th. Yes, the next council, did you mean council or Cal? November 18th. 00:31:42.750 --> 00:31:53.849 Next council meeting. Next council, so the 18th. All right, yes. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. 00:31:53.849 --> 00:32:17.819 Simmons? No. Parker? Aye. And Stacy? No. The motion passes five to two. And that brings us to item nine, discussion regarding revisions to ordinance chapter 220, Council section 220.10, Rules of 00:32:17.819 --> 00:32:30.039 Thank you Mr. Chair. So in all of your meeting packets is the proposed ordinance. So this 00:32:30.039 --> 00:32:35.680 ordinance proposes changes to basically the rules of councils. They're going through the 00:32:35.680 --> 00:32:41.819 ordinance there. The first change is to the section that defines when there is a quorum. 00:32:41.819 --> 00:32:47.799 There currently right now a quorum is comprised of a majority of all the aldermen. The proposed 00:33:17.799 --> 00:33:23.960 that did show up though, then can compel the absence of those that weren't there to show 00:33:23.960 --> 00:33:28.880 up at the next meeting, and it provides that there's a potential fine for those that purposely 00:33:28.880 --> 00:33:32.200 did not show up to the meeting there. 00:33:32.200 --> 00:33:36.119 And that's a fine of, currently our ordinance says that it's a $20 fine. 00:33:36.119 --> 00:33:41.839 This proposed change raises it to a $100 fine. 00:33:41.839 --> 00:33:47.200 It also then currently provides that you have to be upon conviction by the council as to 00:33:47.200 --> 00:33:49.400 whether or not that fine's gonna be imposed. 00:33:49.400 --> 00:33:52.799 It's proposed to change that to the city there 00:33:52.799 --> 00:33:55.920 that there was brought up a comment there 00:33:55.920 --> 00:33:58.720 because that this talks about a fine and conviction. 00:33:58.720 --> 00:34:02.039 I believe that most proper it would be to take this 00:34:02.039 --> 00:34:04.759 through the city's administrative hearing process 00:34:04.759 --> 00:34:06.559 in order to provide due process 00:34:06.559 --> 00:34:08.840 rather than just have the council be the body 00:34:08.840 --> 00:34:10.279 that determines whether or not the fine 00:34:10.279 --> 00:34:12.239 should be levied there. 00:34:12.239 --> 00:34:15.480 Our administrative hearing process is available. 00:34:15.480 --> 00:34:17.159 We use it for any code enforcement, 00:34:17.159 --> 00:34:22.199 and many more violations there and there's an independent judge that's appointed to 00:34:22.199 --> 00:34:24.400 serve us and hear those cases. 00:34:24.400 --> 00:34:29.800 That's why it's recommended here to say by conviction by the city, i.e. our administrative 00:34:29.800 --> 00:34:33.460 hearing process instead of just having the council be the body to determine whether or 00:34:33.460 --> 00:34:40.730 not someone should be fined $100 there. 00:34:40.730 --> 00:34:45.730 Proposed change then is to the section about frequency of speaking. 00:34:45.730 --> 00:34:51.010 Our code currently does have language in there that says that no member of the council shall 00:34:51.010 --> 00:34:56.050 speak more than twice on the same general question. 00:34:56.050 --> 00:35:00.329 This clarifies a little bit that no person shall speak more than twice to the same agenda 00:35:00.329 --> 00:35:01.329 item number. 00:35:01.329 --> 00:35:03.989 So that's just a clarification. 00:35:03.989 --> 00:35:07.909 And that if they want to speak more than twice, currently it says that you have to have the 00:35:07.909 --> 00:35:10.010 unanimous vote of the council. 00:35:10.010 --> 00:35:13.710 This changes it to just a majority vote of the council to allow for someone to speak 00:35:13.710 --> 00:35:15.710 and 00:35:16.949 --> 00:35:17.710 the 00:35:17.710 --> 00:35:18.710 council 00:35:18.710 --> 00:35:31.710 will be allowed to speak more than twice, as currently provided that no one can speak more than once until every other member of the council has a chance to speak once or you can't speak a second time unless until everyone else has spoken. That's currently in our 00:35:31.710 --> 00:35:32.710 Miller. 00:35:32.710 --> 00:35:37.909 It does add new that no member shall be allowed to speak more than a total of 10 minutes per 00:35:37.909 --> 00:35:38.909 agenda item. 00:35:38.909 --> 00:35:42.750 So each council member shall be allowed to speak for 10 minutes and that it says that 00:35:42.750 --> 00:35:46.670 that timing, you know, how many minutes each person has spoken is just supposed to be timed 00:35:46.670 --> 00:35:48.630 by the clerk. 00:35:48.630 --> 00:35:52.650 So that's the next proposed change. 00:35:52.650 --> 00:35:59.929 The next section that is being proposed to be changed is to voting. 00:35:59.929 --> 00:36:04.090 it provides article provides that when each member that's present when a 00:36:04.090 --> 00:36:09.650 question is stated and a vote is called for that they're going to vote on it 00:36:09.650 --> 00:36:16.849 unless they have a conflict there this clarifies that when a vote is taken that 00:36:16.849 --> 00:36:20.170 you're gonna vote unless you have a conflict in which case then you're gonna 00:36:20.170 --> 00:36:25.130 abstain so that's just a clarification item a new language that's being 00:36:25.130 --> 00:36:29.650 proposed to be added to this section it says that any member who's present 00:36:29.650 --> 00:36:31.650 and 00:36:32.650 --> 00:36:34.650 John. 00:36:35.849 --> 00:36:38.849 And then, if you don't have a conflict, then this is basically 00:36:38.849 --> 00:36:41.849 saying that all the person needs to vote one way or the other, yes 00:36:41.849 --> 00:36:43.849 or no, on an item. 00:36:45.050 --> 00:36:48.050 The next proposed change is to the section regarding enforcement 00:36:48.050 --> 00:36:50.050 and the enforcement of the law. 00:36:51.949 --> 00:36:53.949 And then, if you don't have a conflict, then this is basically 00:36:53.949 --> 00:36:57.199 saying that all the person needs to vote one way or the other, 00:36:57.199 --> 00:36:59.199 yes or no, on an item. 00:37:00.900 --> 00:37:02.900 and 00:37:03.900 --> 00:37:05.900 John. 00:37:08.420 --> 00:37:10.420 I'm going to read the report. 00:37:12.420 --> 00:37:15.380 It says the sergeant at arms of the meeting, which is either the 00:37:15.380 --> 00:37:17.380 chief of police or the fire department, it currently says 00:37:20.380 --> 00:37:22.380 that the sergeant at arms shall place any person who violates 00:37:23.900 --> 00:37:25.900 the requirement of maintaining decorum at a meeting under 00:37:27.000 --> 00:37:29.000 arrest and shall cause him or her to be prosecuted under the 00:37:29.000 --> 00:37:36.000 Russell, Motion, fridge and arms, blue, remove any person who violates decorum at a meeting that takes out the language of 00:37:36.779 --> 00:37:42.119 being placed under arrest and being prosecuted. There's just as though someone's being 00:37:42.579 --> 00:37:46.579 unruly and doesn't maintain decorum that they will be just removed from the meeting. 00:37:47.239 --> 00:37:53.750 There's not anything about being placed under arrest or anything like that. 00:37:53.989 --> 00:37:57.869 And then the last proposed changes under this ordinance has to do with 00:37:57.869 --> 00:38:03.869 the chairperson at committee of the whole meetings they're currently right now our ordinance says that 00:38:03.869 --> 00:38:10.429 every older person is going to take a turn and you know serving as the chairperson of a 00:38:11.230 --> 00:38:17.389 of the committee of the whole meeting there nothing there is changing it does add the proposed new 00:38:17.389 --> 00:38:22.670 language it says that any older person who neglects or refuses to serve as the chair 00:38:22.670 --> 00:38:28.590 Miller of the Committee of the Whole or is willfully absent, meaning that they don't 00:38:28.590 --> 00:38:32.230 have a reason or reason for being absent. They just decide they don't want to be there 00:38:32.230 --> 00:38:38.949 at the meeting that night when it's their turn to serve as the chairperson, that that 00:38:38.949 --> 00:38:44.869 person could be subject to a fine of not more than $100 there upon conviction by the city. 00:38:44.869 --> 00:38:49.389 And again, it uses the term city, meaning that it would be determined by the administrative 00:38:49.389 --> 00:39:05.230 of the City Council. 00:39:05.230 --> 00:39:09.829 Sir, what direction did you, prompted you to make these changes to this ordinance and bring 00:39:09.829 --> 00:39:11.949 this before council? 00:39:11.949 --> 00:39:16.789 My office was requested specifically, the mayor was the one who reached out to me, but 00:39:16.789 --> 00:39:20.349 my understanding is that there were additional older persons that were in support of these 00:39:20.349 --> 00:39:21.349 proposed changes. 00:39:21.349 --> 00:39:27.679 All of them, Sellers? 00:39:27.679 --> 00:39:35.920 I would just like to say that I, I know that there was some conflict on a lot of what was 00:39:35.920 --> 00:39:45.000 said in this ordinance and what I'm feeling is that a lot of times our meetings are three 00:39:45.000 --> 00:39:51.900 and four hours which is, that's long for our council meetings to take place and that's 00:39:51.900 --> 00:39:54.019 That's because it has been said from... 00:39:54.019 --> 00:39:54.800 because it has been said from the floor 00:39:54.800 --> 00:39:57.119 and from different people saying 00:39:57.119 --> 00:39:59.480 that we're not coming prepared. 00:39:59.480 --> 00:40:01.519 And I think that's what's holding our meeting. 00:40:01.519 --> 00:40:04.440 We're not saying you can't answer the questions. 00:40:04.440 --> 00:40:07.920 You have time to go in and ask the questions at any time, 00:40:07.920 --> 00:40:11.519 but coming and asking a lot of the questions here 00:40:11.519 --> 00:40:16.239 and not doing it when you can go and get it 00:40:16.239 --> 00:40:19.000 before you come to the meeting and come and prepare, 00:40:19.000 --> 00:40:20.880 knowing what we're going through 00:40:20.880 --> 00:40:23.039 will make our meetings go a little faster. 00:40:23.039 --> 00:40:28.039 So I do feel that our meetings are just way too long 00:40:28.320 --> 00:40:31.480 and I've been on quite a few boards my own life 00:40:31.480 --> 00:40:35.219 and this one is just the longest, you know, 00:40:35.219 --> 00:40:38.960 repeating the conversations that you should know 00:40:38.960 --> 00:40:43.400 a lot of these things before you come here or understand. 00:40:43.400 --> 00:40:45.840 I understand if you got an extra question 00:40:45.840 --> 00:40:47.480 because I have them sometimes, 00:40:47.480 --> 00:40:50.500 but I just, the three and four hour meetings 00:40:50.500 --> 00:40:54.860 are just, they're getting to me because it's a lot of time 00:40:54.860 --> 00:40:57.579 that we're wasting because we're not going, 00:40:57.579 --> 00:41:00.219 getting ourself prepared when we come and sit down 00:41:00.219 --> 00:41:02.579 and understand what's on the agenda 00:41:02.579 --> 00:41:06.340 so that we know why this is this and this is that. 00:41:06.340 --> 00:41:08.300 And I know I have to do it. 00:41:08.300 --> 00:41:11.260 I know I don't like taking time out of my life 00:41:11.260 --> 00:41:13.699 on a Wednesday or a Thursday morning to run 00:41:13.699 --> 00:41:16.179 and understand each thing and getting, 00:41:16.179 --> 00:41:17.900 and I ask my questions. 00:41:17.900 --> 00:41:20.739 I asked my questions, I don't have to allot here 00:41:20.739 --> 00:41:23.860 because I've asked my questions and I understand. 00:41:23.860 --> 00:41:27.619 So that's my biggest thing is that these long meetings 00:41:27.619 --> 00:41:32.619 are just really, and I think it's a disrespect 00:41:33.099 --> 00:41:36.500 to a lot of our people that sit out there 00:41:36.500 --> 00:41:41.420 and want to say something, to add to the agenda 00:41:41.420 --> 00:41:45.800 that it's discussed public comments at the end. 00:41:45.800 --> 00:41:47.400 They're so long that they leave 00:41:47.400 --> 00:41:49.800 and they're not able to ask a lot of questions 00:41:49.800 --> 00:41:52.679 that they would like to ask that's not on the agenda. 00:41:52.679 --> 00:41:54.300 So that was my biggest thing. 00:41:54.300 --> 00:41:57.519 So I have to say that I do have that. 00:41:57.519 --> 00:41:59.480 So that's just me. 00:42:00.960 --> 00:42:01.800 Chairperson. 00:42:03.960 --> 00:42:06.460 Is anybody else before we go back for a second? 00:42:07.420 --> 00:42:08.880 Yes, I would like to say something. 00:42:08.880 --> 00:42:09.880 Alderman Stacey. 00:42:11.139 --> 00:42:14.519 You know, there's more to this council 00:42:15.360 --> 00:42:17.139 than the mayor and three people. 00:42:18.840 --> 00:42:27.840 and that's who came up with these changes not all of us were included and this is 00:42:27.840 --> 00:42:35.199 the crap that continues to happen you pick and choose who you can get on your 00:42:35.199 --> 00:42:44.199 side to agree with you to make changes that you want excluding the other five 00:42:44.199 --> 00:43:25.400 and I would just like to make a motion that this be moved to the December cowl so just maybe that can happen and the discussion from all of us that need to come forth can come forth. No, city manager, Boyer, I just want to make a motion that this be moved to December cowl so just maybe that can happen and the discussion from all of us that need to come forth can come forth. 00:43:25.400 --> 00:43:36.719 I don't come to your office and meet with you on a regular because I don't work for you, 00:43:36.719 --> 00:43:47.079 I work for the people. And it's important to me that the people hear how I feel and what 00:43:47.079 --> 00:44:05.460 I got to say and not that it's kept behind closed doors. So I would like to see this 00:44:05.460 --> 00:44:08.739 let's move to the cow and maybe the other five of us 00:44:08.739 --> 00:44:12.880 who have some input can be granted that right. 00:44:14.579 --> 00:44:19.579 This meeting have not ran properly in over a decade. 00:44:21.440 --> 00:44:23.980 And then out of nowhere last week, 00:44:25.179 --> 00:44:29.619 you're held to two questions, no follow up. 00:44:30.599 --> 00:44:34.099 It was like a joke. 00:44:34.099 --> 00:44:41.460 like really, it was funny to some like, it's not funny. 00:44:52.980 --> 00:44:54.599 It's not funny. 00:44:54.599 --> 00:44:57.400 We sat here, we didn't have a finance meeting 00:44:57.400 --> 00:45:00.800 and we could have been instructed. 00:45:00.800 --> 00:45:02.960 The meeting has never ran right, 00:45:02.960 --> 00:45:04.940 but it's gonna run right tonight. 00:45:04.940 --> 00:45:09.940 But no, let's just see whose face we can break and get off. 00:45:09.940 --> 00:45:23.590 just stop right is right and wrong is wrong and this process has not been done 00:45:23.590 --> 00:45:39.420 right I just like to interject that it is on the floor tonight so any input that 00:45:39.420 --> 00:45:47.380 you have is open for discussion well so hang on one sec so we have a motion 00:45:47.380 --> 00:45:56.139 right now to to move this to the December cowl so there would need to be a second 00:45:56.139 --> 00:46:01.099 right now we need to see if there's a second to that motion although I think 00:46:01.099 --> 00:46:08.699 the motion should have been to table but I will second it okay I didn't hear what 00:46:08.699 --> 00:46:13.460 you said your motion should have been to table it I would have hopped at that but 00:46:13.460 --> 00:46:22.619 I will agree to move it. Okay. I'll second that. So there's a motion on the table now to move this 00:46:22.619 --> 00:46:28.099 agenda item to the December COW for further discussion and so Mr. Chair then 00:46:28.099 --> 00:46:34.980 there's if there's discussion on the motion to lay it over to December. 00:46:34.980 --> 00:47:08.239 any discussion on the motion? Yes, I agree to this and it would be a good idea. However, I wish all of us would take into between this period of time and now in the December cow to think about how many finance meetings we've missed so far to think how many people have not come prepared, not read their stuff, and the meetings could run a whole lot smoother than that. Every time everybody 00:47:08.239 --> 00:47:15.079 said that the city manager, the department heads, are available if you have any questions. 00:47:15.079 --> 00:47:28.510 Let's start using them like we should and be prepared when we come to the meetings. 00:47:28.510 --> 00:47:30.630 Take roll on the motion or? 00:47:30.630 --> 00:47:31.630 Right. 00:47:31.630 --> 00:47:36.429 So what's before them right now is just the motion to move this to the December COW for 00:47:36.429 --> 00:47:37.470 further discussion. 00:47:37.470 --> 00:47:40.550 That's the motion that you guys are voting on if you're ready to vote. 00:47:40.550 --> 00:47:42.550 Madam Clerk, please. 00:47:42.550 --> 00:47:43.550 Shadle? 00:47:43.550 --> 00:47:44.550 Aye. 00:47:44.550 --> 00:47:45.550 Sanders? 00:47:45.550 --> 00:47:46.550 Aye. 00:47:46.550 --> 00:47:58.570 Klemm, Simmons, Parker, and Stacy. The motion passes seven to zero. And item 10 00:47:58.570 --> 00:48:07.389 discussion and explanation of chapter 216 public meetings section 216.04 00:48:07.389 --> 00:48:13.190 executive session of the codified ordinances presented by Alderperson 00:48:13.190 --> 00:48:20.090 and Stacy and Sanders. 00:48:20.090 --> 00:48:26.760 Well, since this meeting haven't been run properly 00:48:28.119 --> 00:48:32.860 for a decade, I had begun to feel that 00:48:34.720 --> 00:48:42.730 maybe the mayor didn't know how to run the meeting. 00:48:42.730 --> 00:48:48.139 Rather than to think something was purposely being done, 00:48:48.139 --> 00:48:51.980 I just thought maybe she didn't know how to run the meeting. 00:48:51.980 --> 00:48:56.980 and so not knowing that number nine was gonna be 00:49:00.579 --> 00:49:06.550 on the agenda and I had received enlightenment 00:49:06.550 --> 00:49:10.550 on how the council meeting should be run. 00:49:11.909 --> 00:49:16.909 I wanted the mayor to explain how executive session 00:49:18.470 --> 00:49:21.949 are ran but I came in here today to a piece of paper 00:49:21.949 --> 00:49:25.429 on my desk and no mayor. 00:49:25.429 --> 00:49:29.550 So I guess I could have asked for number 10 00:49:29.550 --> 00:49:34.320 to be removed like number eight 00:49:35.800 --> 00:49:47.079 because she's not here to explain. 00:49:47.079 --> 00:49:52.000 We can move this to the COW in December as well. 00:49:52.000 --> 00:49:54.000 And then just maybe. 00:49:54.000 --> 00:49:59.070 Attorney Zeno. 00:49:59.070 --> 00:50:01.070 I was just going to ask all of them. 00:50:01.070 --> 00:50:03.070 Stacy, is there 00:50:03.070 --> 00:50:05.070 something, is there, if there's a question 00:50:05.070 --> 00:50:07.070 that you had about it that maybe 00:50:07.070 --> 00:50:09.070 could I answer it or is it specific 00:50:09.070 --> 00:50:11.070 that you want to ask the mayor? 00:50:11.070 --> 00:50:13.070 She the one that runs it. 00:50:13.070 --> 00:50:15.070 I want to hear it from her. Oh, okay. 00:50:15.070 --> 00:50:17.070 I just want to throw out 00:50:17.070 --> 00:50:19.070 there if there was like a 00:50:19.070 --> 00:50:21.070 question or something like that. To save time 00:50:21.070 --> 00:50:28.139 I can just make a motion that this be moved to the December COW as well. I'll second it. 00:50:29.380 --> 00:50:34.739 We have a motion by Stacy to move this item to the December COW seconded by Simmons. 00:50:35.420 --> 00:50:41.769 Any discussion? 00:50:43.769 --> 00:50:49.130 You want an understanding of this that she left she left this? I don't know who left that. 00:50:52.619 --> 00:50:54.059 Chair 00:50:54.059 --> 00:50:55.900 Chair, yes 00:50:55.900 --> 00:51:02.059 Alderperson Stacy since you asked to have it on the agenda I shared it with 00:51:02.059 --> 00:51:15.179 everybody so we had it in front of us for discussion. Thank you. Madam Clerk you 00:51:15.179 --> 00:51:36.869 take the roll. Shadle. No. Sanders. Yes. Sellers. No. Klemm. No. Simmons. Aye. Parker. No. 00:51:36.869 --> 00:51:50.659 and Stacy. Aye. We have a vote of four to three. The motion fails. I'm sorry. Three to four. 00:51:50.659 --> 00:52:00.780 Three to four. You are correct. Thank you for the correction. And item 11 is public. 00:52:00.780 --> 00:52:09.070 Three to one. Three to four. Three to four. Item 11 is public comments on agenda or 00:52:09.070 --> 00:52:13.800 or non-agenda item. 00:52:13.800 --> 00:52:18.190 Tommy? 00:52:18.190 --> 00:52:20.510 I want to tell Ashley. 00:52:20.510 --> 00:52:23.269 You've done a good job with the Freeport Library. 00:52:23.269 --> 00:52:25.230 Thank you, Tommy. 00:52:25.230 --> 00:52:30.900 And, Dr. Dickerman? 00:52:30.900 --> 00:52:35.539 You got a thing about that Lincoln School? 00:52:35.539 --> 00:52:37.059 Yep, that's right, Tommy. 00:52:37.059 --> 00:52:39.820 When they're going to show? 00:52:39.820 --> 00:52:41.300 Soon, Tommy, soon. 00:52:41.300 --> 00:52:44.860 Coming soon. 00:52:44.860 --> 00:52:45.420 Anyone else? 00:52:45.420 --> 00:52:53.250 Diane? 00:52:53.250 --> 00:52:58.250 Again, going back to item number nine on the agenda, 00:52:58.650 --> 00:53:03.650 I can say one thing that I do like is where you took out 00:53:04.050 --> 00:53:06.369 that people were gonna be arrested and prosecuted. 00:53:06.369 --> 00:53:09.409 So I do appreciate that much in this ordinance. 00:53:09.409 --> 00:53:10.889 I would say you could add that much, 00:53:10.889 --> 00:53:13.510 but as for the rest, not so sure. 00:53:14.570 --> 00:53:18.050 So anyway, I just have concerns and I know time 00:53:18.050 --> 00:53:21.130 is of the issue and so forth with everyone, 00:53:21.130 --> 00:53:23.690 but I still think this has been extra punitive 00:53:23.690 --> 00:53:28.110 in ways that it does not need to be. 00:53:28.110 --> 00:53:32.780 And that's what I'm gonna say. 00:53:32.780 --> 00:53:33.940 Anyone else? 00:53:33.940 --> 00:53:38.900 Mr. Atkinson. 00:53:38.900 --> 00:53:39.900 Thank you Alderman. 00:53:41.559 --> 00:53:45.320 That last bit of conversation just really struck me hard. 00:53:45.320 --> 00:53:48.420 Alderman Sellers, and for the rest of you, 00:53:48.420 --> 00:53:50.719 if you don't like three hour meetings, 00:53:50.719 --> 00:53:53.119 work together, talk to each other. 00:53:53.119 --> 00:53:55.079 I know that Alderman in this room, 00:53:56.019 --> 00:53:57.280 no more than two at a time, 00:54:27.279 --> 00:54:29.279 Citty. Act like it. 00:54:29.279 --> 00:54:31.279 Let me be quiet. 00:54:31.279 --> 00:54:34.650 Okay. 00:54:34.650 --> 00:54:36.650 Yes, ma'am. 00:54:36.650 --> 00:54:44.760 Okay. 00:54:44.760 --> 00:54:46.760 I just want to say I've been a part of Freeport for a while now. 00:54:46.760 --> 00:54:48.760 The most thing that I... 00:54:48.760 --> 00:54:50.760 Your name, please. 00:54:50.760 --> 00:54:52.760 Y'all know me. I'm Akia. 00:54:52.760 --> 00:54:54.760 The most thing I've ever heard the community 00:54:54.760 --> 00:54:56.760 scream out is that they want 00:54:56.760 --> 00:54:58.760 a good 00:54:58.760 --> 00:55:00.760 communication, you know, good leadership 00:55:00.760 --> 00:55:02.760 and all that. This so proves 00:55:02.760 --> 00:55:07.920 even to have number nine even on the table talked about that you guys don't 00:55:07.920 --> 00:55:11.760 want to have people understand things and communicate with people right is 00:55:11.760 --> 00:55:16.400 diabolical it proves that you guys don't want to work with each other you want to 00:55:16.400 --> 00:55:21.119 control other people and there is no control God has control that's all I got to 00:55:21.119 --> 00:55:33.029 say thank you yes my name is Marcus I just wanted to say I'm hearing a lot of 00:55:33.029 --> 00:55:36.389 complaining about how the meetings take and so on how about let's put the 00:55:36.389 --> 00:55:39.989 the community first. How about we have our comments first and then let's see how 00:55:39.989 --> 00:55:43.710 long it really takes us in a meeting and see if the City Council got it together 00:55:43.710 --> 00:55:48.889 and try to be have less time in the meeting. Let's let the community go 00:55:48.889 --> 00:55:58.849 first. Let's see that. We never tried that. Let's try it. Thank you. Anyone else? 00:55:58.849 --> 00:56:11.619 Seeing no more comments, I would entertain a motion for adjournment. Yes, 00:56:11.619 --> 00:56:14.679 we'll be going back to the committee to hold. We have a second for the 00:56:14.679 --> 00:56:26.599 Adjournment. Motion by Sellers, second by Klemm. All in favor? Aye. Opposed? Thank you. 00:56:26.599 --> 00:56:33.320 Let's take about three minutes and we'll reconvene the committee.