WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:02.200 they have electivites and everything. 00:00:02.200 --> 00:00:04.940 And all the things, email with Jodi, email with Joanne, 00:00:04.940 --> 00:00:07.120 or if you want, just bring her. 00:00:07.120 --> 00:00:08.380 Did you eat something? 00:00:08.380 --> 00:00:09.199 Snacks. 00:00:09.199 --> 00:00:11.460 Yeah, I don't want to post. 00:00:11.460 --> 00:00:14.839 Yeah, well, melody is half the whole anyway. 00:00:14.839 --> 00:00:16.399 I'd rather be objective. 00:00:16.399 --> 00:00:17.359 That's fine. 00:00:17.359 --> 00:00:19.199 So that's Monday at the conference. 00:00:19.199 --> 00:00:19.699 OK. 00:00:19.699 --> 00:00:20.199 Thank you. 00:00:20.199 --> 00:00:21.199 You're welcome. 00:00:21.199 --> 00:00:22.199 I'll let anyone know. 00:00:23.199 --> 00:00:24.559 That's awesome. 00:00:24.559 --> 00:00:25.059 Thank you. 00:00:25.059 --> 00:00:26.539 There's a next one. 00:00:26.539 --> 00:00:27.440 Yeah. 00:00:27.440 --> 00:00:29.940 So it's a summer. 00:00:29.940 --> 00:00:59.859 Good evening. 00:00:59.859 --> 00:01:15.140 Debbie, would you please give the invocation. I have a Bible verse I'd like to say before I pray. It comes from Psalm 27, 11. 00:01:15.140 --> 00:01:24.140 Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path. Our heavenly Father, we just thank you for today. We thank you for Freeport. 00:01:24.140 --> 00:01:29.140 We thank you for all the people that live in this town. And we're here for a reason. 00:01:29.140 --> 00:01:34.180 Anderson, and we should be looking at it to make Freeport a better place. 00:01:34.180 --> 00:01:39.640 We thank you for our officials that are here tonight, all the government officials, elected 00:01:39.640 --> 00:01:46.140 officers, Mayor Jodi, and Lord, we ask that you would lead them on a plain path, help 00:01:46.140 --> 00:01:52.500 them to look to you for wisdom and for guidance and to put aside any kind of difference that 00:01:52.500 --> 00:01:58.620 they have with each other and look to Freeport as a whole to work together to make it a better 00:01:58.620 --> 00:02:04.260 We ask your blessings upon this gathering today. We thank you for our 00:02:04.260 --> 00:02:11.099 police enforcement. We thank you how they risk their lives to keep our community 00:02:11.099 --> 00:02:16.460 safe. And Lord, we ask that you put a shield of protection around everyone and 00:02:16.460 --> 00:02:22.539 bless their families. In Jesus name we pray, amen. Thank you Debbie. Now we'll 00:02:22.539 --> 00:02:25.020 officially call this meeting to order. Madam Clerk, would you please take the 00:02:25.020 --> 00:02:37.270 Merrill, Mayor Miller, Alderpersons, Klemm, Johnson, they will be marked in person. Simmons 00:02:37.270 --> 00:02:46.469 is absent now but will be joining us. Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, and Sellers. 00:02:46.469 --> 00:02:52.030 If I could please have a motion to approve the remote attendance of Alderman Simmons. 00:02:52.030 --> 00:02:54.590 It's all moved. Second. 00:02:54.590 --> 00:03:03.389 Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Johnson. Madam Clerk, could you please call the roll? 00:03:03.389 --> 00:03:15.729 Stacy? On allowing Alderman Simmons to remote. Yes. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. 00:03:15.729 --> 00:03:25.090 Johnson? Aye. Ann Parker? Aye. The motion passes seven to zero. Did you want to see if she can hear? 00:03:25.090 --> 00:03:26.090 Miller. 00:03:26.090 --> 00:03:29.969 Oh yes, Alderperson Simmons, can you hear us? 00:03:29.969 --> 00:03:30.969 Are you present? 00:03:30.969 --> 00:03:33.689 Yes, I'm here, thank you. 00:03:33.689 --> 00:03:35.250 Show me Mark President 602. 00:03:35.250 --> 00:03:39.289 Okay, if you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Stacy. 00:03:39.289 --> 00:03:47.250 I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for 00:03:47.250 --> 00:03:55.009 which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 00:03:55.009 --> 00:04:25.009 Ida number one is the approval of the agenda. However, I'm asking for a slight change. The child abuse prevention month proclamation needs to be removed from the consent agenda and read after the police department promotions and before public comments. If that's acceptable, I would ask for a motion to approve as amended. So moved. Could you repeat that again, please? Sure. The child abuse prevention month proclamation 00:04:25.009 --> 00:04:31.629 was accidentally listed on the consent agenda and those are normally read so just wanted 00:04:31.629 --> 00:04:34.930 to put that on the agenda itself. 00:04:34.930 --> 00:04:36.689 After appointments, Madam Mayor? 00:04:36.689 --> 00:04:40.529 No, after the police department promotions. 00:04:40.529 --> 00:04:41.529 Thank you. 00:04:41.529 --> 00:04:44.160 So we had... 00:04:44.160 --> 00:04:47.000 I would second that motion. 00:04:47.000 --> 00:04:54.399 Who was the first, Joy? 00:04:54.399 --> 00:05:02.399 was it, who made the motion to approve? I thought it was Joy. I would make the motion then. Oh I second. 00:05:02.399 --> 00:05:07.519 Okay all right well we have a motion made by Alderman Shadle seconded by Alderman Sellers. 00:05:07.519 --> 00:05:13.329 Madam Clerk could you please take the role? Can we do a voice on that or would you like me to get 00:05:14.769 --> 00:05:19.089 oh thank you attorney I'm sorry we've got to have that every single one. 00:05:19.089 --> 00:05:24.399 My apologies. 00:05:24.399 --> 00:05:25.399 Stacy? 00:05:25.399 --> 00:05:26.399 Aye. 00:05:26.399 --> 00:05:27.399 Shadle? 00:05:27.399 --> 00:05:28.399 Aye. 00:05:28.399 --> 00:05:29.399 Sanders? 00:05:29.399 --> 00:05:30.399 Aye. 00:05:30.399 --> 00:05:31.399 Sellers? 00:05:31.399 --> 00:05:32.399 Aye. 00:05:32.399 --> 00:05:33.399 Klemm? 00:05:33.399 --> 00:05:34.399 Aye. 00:05:34.399 --> 00:05:35.399 Johnson? 00:05:35.399 --> 00:05:36.399 Aye. 00:05:36.399 --> 00:05:37.399 Simmons? 00:05:37.399 --> 00:05:38.399 Aye. 00:05:38.399 --> 00:05:39.399 And Parker? 00:05:39.399 --> 00:05:40.399 Aye. 00:05:40.399 --> 00:05:41.399 Motion passes eight to zero. 00:05:41.399 --> 00:05:42.399 Item number two is approval of the minutes from the council meeting on March 2nd, 2026. 00:05:42.399 --> 00:05:44.399 Is there a motion to approve? 00:05:44.399 --> 00:05:50.540 I didn't catch that guys. 00:05:50.540 --> 00:06:03.420 Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:06:03.420 --> 00:06:15.000 Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Klemm. Aye. Johnson. Aye. Simmons. Aye. 00:06:15.000 --> 00:06:21.160 And Parker. Aye. And that motion passes 8-0. Item number 3 is the Police Department Promotions 00:06:21.160 --> 00:07:07.500 Good afternoon, everyone. I'll have Dustin Groen first, please. Officer Groen was hired 00:07:07.500 --> 00:07:13.300 in September 2019 and has consistently taken on roles that demonstrate initiative and professional 00:07:13.300 --> 00:07:18.579 development. He has served as a detective, field training officer, member of the emergency 00:07:18.579 --> 00:07:25.060 C. Responsi team and as an arrest and control tactics instructor. His commitment to training, 00:07:25.060 --> 00:07:30.819 tactical operations, and investigative work highlights his potential for advancement. 00:07:30.819 --> 00:07:36.759 My name is Robert Bush. I am a member of the City of Freeport Police and Fire Commission 00:07:36.759 --> 00:07:42.579 and with us we have Evelyn Curry. She is a commissioner also and it is an honor to be 00:07:42.579 --> 00:07:46.980 be here to witness the promotion of these officers tonight. 00:07:46.980 --> 00:07:48.740 These officers came before us 00:07:48.740 --> 00:07:52.500 and we saw the value in them and hiring them 00:07:52.500 --> 00:07:56.220 and to see them to elevate themselves within the department. 00:07:56.220 --> 00:07:59.899 It is an honor to realize that we did make the right choice 00:07:59.899 --> 00:08:03.899 in hiring them because they have put forth the effort 00:08:03.899 --> 00:08:06.300 to gain the knowledge and the wisdom 00:08:06.300 --> 00:08:10.019 to reach a higher level within the department. 00:08:10.019 --> 00:08:20.060 and Dustin. Official Commission, the City of Freeport Board and Fire Police Commission, 00:08:20.060 --> 00:08:27.379 to all to whom these presents shall come, Dustin Groen, have been duly appointed to 00:08:27.379 --> 00:08:32.940 the Office of Corporal and for the City of Freeport in the County of Steveson and State 00:08:32.940 --> 00:08:40.179 of Illinois for the term from the sixth day of April, 2026 until his successor shall have 00:08:40.179 --> 00:08:46.860 have been duly appointed and qualified, is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume 00:08:46.860 --> 00:08:52.940 and perform all the duties of his said office according to the law and ordinances of said 00:08:52.940 --> 00:09:00.379 city and all persons are required to respect him in the discharge of his duties by the order 00:09:00.379 --> 00:09:20.289 of the Board of Fire and Police Commission. 00:09:20.289 --> 00:09:29.259 Now this way. 00:09:29.259 --> 00:09:31.259 Hello. 00:09:31.259 --> 00:09:33.259 Okay. 00:09:33.259 --> 00:09:49.340 Where's our guy? 00:09:49.340 --> 00:09:56.299 Officer Richard? 00:09:56.299 --> 00:09:58.299 Officer Richard McElmill was hired in June 2014. 00:09:58.299 --> 00:10:04.480 He appeared in June 2014 and brings an extensive experience across a wide range of assignments. 00:10:04.480 --> 00:10:09.679 He has served as an inspector with the state line area narcotics team, a firearms instructor, 00:10:09.679 --> 00:10:13.879 a member of the emergency response team, and a field training officer. 00:10:13.879 --> 00:10:17.320 He is also one of the original members of the department's gang unit. 00:10:17.320 --> 00:10:20.960 He is currently assigned as a canine officer with his partner DJ. 00:10:20.960 --> 00:10:25.720 His experience and specialized skill sets make him a strong candidate for promotion. 00:10:25.720 --> 00:10:40.529 Okay. This is my first time doing this. I'm a little nervous. 00:10:40.529 --> 00:10:50.809 Official Commission. Richard MacLamale. Having been duly appointed to the Office of Corporal 00:10:50.809 --> 00:10:56.450 and for the City of Freeport in the County of Stevenson, the State of Illinois for the 00:10:56.450 --> 00:11:03.809 term from the 6th day of April, 2026 until the successor shall have been duly appointed 00:11:03.809 --> 00:11:10.049 and Qualified is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties 00:11:10.049 --> 00:11:15.629 of his said office according to the law and ordinances of a said city, and all persons 00:11:15.629 --> 00:11:20.730 are required to respect him in the discharge of his said duties by the order of the Board 00:11:20.730 --> 00:11:58.049 of Fire and Police Commission. 00:11:58.049 --> 00:12:02.659 Blake Upman. 00:12:02.659 --> 00:12:07.259 Corporal Upman was hired in September 2016 and promoted to the rank of Corporal in January 00:12:07.259 --> 00:12:12.100 He has demonstrated strong leadership and initiative through his service in multiple 00:12:12.100 --> 00:12:18.180 specialized roles, including detective, field training officer, and firearms instructor. 00:12:18.180 --> 00:12:22.139 Additionally, he serves as a member of the ILEAS Mobile Field Force. 00:12:22.139 --> 00:12:26.659 His diverse experience and leadership as a corporal reflects his readiness for continued 00:12:26.659 --> 00:12:39.940 advancement with this department. 00:12:39.940 --> 00:12:45.740 Official Commission, City of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission, to all to whom 00:12:45.740 --> 00:12:53.460 and these present shall come. Officer Blake Upman, having been duly appointed to the Office 00:12:53.460 --> 00:13:00.059 of Sergeant in and for the City of Freeport in the County of Stevenson and State of Illinois 00:13:00.059 --> 00:13:07.460 for the term from the sixth day of April 2026 until his successor shall have been duly appointed 00:13:07.460 --> 00:13:13.940 and qualified, is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the 00:13:13.940 --> 00:13:20.259 All Duties of His Said Office According to the Law and Ordinances of Said City, and all 00:13:20.259 --> 00:13:27.460 Persons are Required to Respect Him in the Discharge of His Said Duties by the Order 00:13:27.460 --> 00:13:48.299 of the Police and Fire Commission. 00:13:48.299 --> 00:13:49.299 Johnson. 00:13:49.299 --> 00:13:50.299 Thank you. 00:13:50.299 --> 00:13:51.299 Awesome. 00:13:51.299 --> 00:13:52.299 Yeah. 00:13:52.299 --> 00:13:53.299 That's what I said. 00:13:53.299 --> 00:13:54.299 Support all of them. 00:13:54.299 --> 00:14:14.529 Yeah. 00:14:14.529 --> 00:14:15.529 That's nice, though. 00:14:15.529 --> 00:14:16.529 That many people come in to support them. 00:14:16.529 --> 00:14:17.529 It's great. 00:14:17.529 --> 00:14:40.100 Okay, so next we'll move on. 00:14:40.100 --> 00:14:45.339 for a child abuse prevention month, whereas All Our Kids Network is a group of community 00:14:45.339 --> 00:14:51.700 stakeholders who collaboratively work to influence system changes that will strengthen the overall 00:14:51.700 --> 00:14:58.019 family well-being, and whereas Freeport's future prosperity and quality of life depend 00:14:58.019 --> 00:15:03.539 on the healthy development of the children residing across our city, and whereas preventing 00:15:03.539 --> 00:15:09.620 child abuse and neglect must be a priority that requires individuals, families, child 00:15:09.620 --> 00:15:24.700 and others, and to support the physical, emotional, social, and educational well-being of all 00:15:24.700 --> 00:15:25.700 children. 00:15:25.700 --> 00:15:32.819 And whereas child abuse is a serious public health issue with wide-ranging societal consequences, 00:15:32.819 --> 00:15:38.899 as data shows, the link between abuse and neglect of children and a wide range of costly 00:15:38.899 --> 00:15:58.579 And where as statewide and community prevention programs serve as proven and effective ways to reduce child abuse and neglect no matter the geography, race, ethnicity, or economic status. 00:15:58.579 --> 00:16:12.379 and whereas the All Our Kids Network and other community partners will host Blue Ribbon Week, April 5th through the 11th to help spread awareness, hope and education on the topic of child abuse. 00:16:12.379 --> 00:16:28.180 Now therefore, I, Jodi Miller, hereby declare April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month and the second week of April as Blue Ribbon Week and I encourage all our residents to dedicate themselves to protecting the quality of life for every child. 00:16:28.579 --> 00:16:55.940 Thank you very much. I'd like to take a moment just to share how AOK, which stands for all our kids of Northwest Illinois, is working right here in Freeport in Stevenson County to address child abuse and neglect. 00:16:55.940 --> 00:17:02.940 For us, this work is really about prevention. We know that families do better when they feel supported, connected, and not alone. 00:17:02.940 --> 00:17:10.940 The ALK Network, that's why the ALK focuses on strengthening families early before challenges turn into crisis. 00:17:10.940 --> 00:17:22.940 We partner with local organizations across the community to make sure that parents, especially those with young children, have access to mental health support, home visiting, parent education. 00:17:22.940 --> 00:17:30.940 When parents are supported emotionally well, it creates safer, more stable environments for children. 00:17:30.940 --> 00:17:31.940 Miller. 00:17:31.940 --> 00:17:37.299 One area we've really focused on is maternal mental health, because we understand how critical 00:17:37.299 --> 00:17:40.740 those early bonds are between parents and children. 00:17:40.740 --> 00:17:46.299 When we support parents, we're directly helping to reduce the risk of abuse and neglect. 00:17:46.299 --> 00:17:50.660 At the end of the day, it isn't just about a program. 00:17:50.660 --> 00:17:51.660 It's about people. 00:17:51.660 --> 00:17:57.099 It's about making sure families in our community feel seen, supported, and connected. 00:17:57.099 --> 00:18:02.539 When we come together as a community we can create a safer healthier futures for our kids 00:18:03.099 --> 00:18:08.099 ALK thanks you for recognizing and shining a light on the safety of children in our community. 00:18:10.220 --> 00:18:14.240 I just have a real quick story about the blue bows that you may see around town 00:18:15.099 --> 00:18:17.940 The blue bows became a symbol for child abuse prevention 00:18:18.900 --> 00:18:21.619 With Bonnie Finney a grandmother from Virginia 00:18:21.619 --> 00:18:22.619 Winslow. 00:18:22.619 --> 00:18:38.079 She was a victim of domestic violence, was sentenced to five years of imprisonment for 00:18:38.079 --> 00:18:40.740 failing to do more to protect her son. 00:18:40.740 --> 00:18:45.740 Luther Ray Phillips Jr., who committed the crime, was sentenced to 55 years imprisonment. 00:18:45.740 --> 00:18:50.299 The following story was written by Bonnie Finney in conjunction with Prevent Child Abuse 00:18:50.299 --> 00:18:51.299 of Virginia. 00:18:51.299 --> 00:19:21.299 I only had one child. She was a beautiful little girl, the light of our eyes. We knew we we knew she had entered into a stormy marriage, where we brought her home several times in the five years it lasted. We suspected heavy use of drugs, but in those five years, three beautiful, healthy children had been born. I loved them dearly and they loved me. The children were 16 months, three years and four years. My grandson was hospitalized for abuse. He had bruises on his body and cigarette burns on his hands. His doctor did not believe my daughter 00:19:21.299 --> 00:19:28.059 He fell in slippery water in the bathtub after the ordeal at the hospital. My grandson was placed in foster care for three weeks 00:19:28.259 --> 00:19:30.579 He cried when they came to return him to his mother 00:19:30.579 --> 00:19:35.539 He told his foster mother my mama don't love me and begged to stay I ached for his dilemma 00:19:35.579 --> 00:19:38.619 But I was but I wasn't physically able to care for him 00:19:38.619 --> 00:19:43.019 The courts believed that home was the best place for him, but I knew better and I told no 00:19:43.019 --> 00:19:49.019 I begged them not to return him to his mother, but I was overruled. My grandmother's instinct didn't count 00:19:49.019 --> 00:19:58.019 I never saw Bubba again. My 16-month-old granddaughter was hospitalized after being beaten severely, her leg broken in four places, and her hand bruised. 00:19:58.019 --> 00:20:00.460 Hogan in four places, and her hand burned from the tips of her fingers to her wrist. 00:20:00.460 --> 00:20:03.559 It was only then that the search was on for Bubba. 00:20:03.559 --> 00:20:06.960 We learned he had been killed, wrapped in a sheet, stuffed in a toolbox, and dumped 00:20:06.960 --> 00:20:11.000 into the dismal swamp canal three months earlier. 00:20:11.000 --> 00:20:15.400 My efforts to understand became a plea to stop abusing children. 00:20:15.400 --> 00:20:18.720 I tied a blue ribbon on my van antenna to make people wonder. 00:20:18.720 --> 00:20:23.299 It caught on locally with restaurants, businesses, police, and TV and radio stations supporting 00:20:23.299 --> 00:20:26.299 and my efforts to make it a real awareness campaign. 00:20:26.299 --> 00:20:27.259 Why, Blue? 00:20:27.259 --> 00:20:29.960 I intend never to forget the battered bruised bodies 00:20:29.960 --> 00:20:31.559 of my grandchildren. 00:20:31.559 --> 00:20:33.839 Blue serves as a constant reminder to me 00:20:33.839 --> 00:20:35.400 to fight for our children. 00:20:35.400 --> 00:20:37.759 Please wear a blue ribbon, put one on your car, 00:20:37.759 --> 00:20:40.200 give one to your friend, tell them what it means. 00:20:40.200 --> 00:20:42.240 You may save a child's life. 00:20:42.240 --> 00:20:44.599 If you suspect anything is happening to your children, 00:20:44.599 --> 00:20:48.160 your grandchildren, the next child next door, please act. 00:20:48.160 --> 00:20:50.519 If you get no response, try again. 00:20:50.519 --> 00:20:52.160 You may not hear their screams, 00:20:52.160 --> 00:20:53.839 but you may not see their bruises. 00:20:53.839 --> 00:20:55.119 So check for the hidden pain 00:20:55.119 --> 00:20:57.759 and watch for the silent screams in their eyes. 00:20:57.759 --> 00:20:58.599 Thank you. 00:20:58.599 --> 00:20:59.720 God bless. 00:20:59.720 --> 00:21:00.559 Thank you, ladies. 00:21:04.339 --> 00:21:06.420 We have two people signed in for public comment. 00:21:06.420 --> 00:21:08.259 Steve Carroll, you have three minutes. 00:21:17.509 --> 00:21:19.589 I am Steve Carroll. 00:21:20.869 --> 00:21:24.630 This is about agenda items 16 and 17. 00:21:25.470 --> 00:21:28.829 The city wants to add a full-time FOIA officer 00:21:28.829 --> 00:21:30.430 for the police department 00:21:30.430 --> 00:21:34.089 and a part-time FOIA officer for the clerk's office. 00:21:34.089 --> 00:21:36.230 This is due to what is claimed to be 00:21:36.230 --> 00:21:39.670 an overwhelming amount of FOIA requests from the public, 00:21:39.670 --> 00:21:43.190 numbering around 213 last year. 00:21:43.190 --> 00:21:46.309 The rise in FOIA requests over the years 00:21:46.309 --> 00:21:48.650 reflects the lack of trust 00:21:48.650 --> 00:21:50.670 that the public has in city government. 00:21:50.670 --> 00:21:54.089 In short, you have created your own problems 00:21:54.089 --> 00:21:56.069 and now the taxpayers are being asked to pay 00:21:56.069 --> 00:21:58.829 for the city's lack of transparency. 00:21:58.829 --> 00:22:04.829 In the past, the police department used to publish every week what is known as the police blotter, 00:22:04.829 --> 00:22:08.829 which is the call log for the whole city over a week's time. 00:22:08.829 --> 00:22:15.829 This isn't done anymore. However, I have successfully submitted records requests for that very information. 00:22:15.829 --> 00:22:23.829 Hence, another FOIA request is generated due to the police department's lack of basic transparency. 00:22:23.829 --> 00:22:26.389 it should be obvious that city government 00:22:26.389 --> 00:22:28.069 is building an information wall 00:22:28.069 --> 00:22:30.789 between itself and its citizens. 00:22:30.789 --> 00:22:33.309 And I can see where being transparent 00:22:33.309 --> 00:22:35.710 and telling the truth would be dangerous 00:22:35.710 --> 00:22:38.509 for city government because it would give lie 00:22:38.509 --> 00:22:41.650 to Jodi Miller's perpetual mantra 00:22:41.650 --> 00:22:45.829 that Freeport is a great place to live, work, and play. 00:22:45.829 --> 00:22:48.190 And to liberally paraphrase 00:22:48.190 --> 00:22:52.349 from former French Prime Minister, Georges Clamenceau, 00:22:52.349 --> 00:22:56.349 There are two things people living in Freeport don't need. 00:22:56.349 --> 00:22:57.930 One is an appendix. 00:22:57.930 --> 00:23:00.349 The other is Jodi Miller. 00:23:00.349 --> 00:23:04.920 Slantja. 00:23:04.920 --> 00:23:06.420 Next is Aaron Zuberbuehler. 00:23:06.420 --> 00:23:16.630 Hi there. 00:23:16.630 --> 00:23:17.630 Good evening everybody. 00:23:17.630 --> 00:23:18.630 And I apologize. 00:23:18.630 --> 00:23:19.630 It's Eric. 00:23:19.630 --> 00:23:20.630 I read it wrong. 00:23:20.630 --> 00:23:21.630 You're all right. 00:23:21.630 --> 00:23:22.630 No big deal. 00:23:22.630 --> 00:23:23.630 Hello, council. 00:23:23.630 --> 00:23:24.630 Hello, mayor. 00:23:24.630 --> 00:23:25.630 Hello, city manager. 00:23:25.630 --> 00:23:26.630 My name is Eric Zuberbuehler. 00:23:26.630 --> 00:23:28.549 I live right up the road at 626 West Stevenson Street. 00:23:28.549 --> 00:23:30.990 I'm here to speak on item number 11. 00:23:30.990 --> 00:23:37.509 As someone who does not use marijuana, I want to be clear that I am in favor of the dispensary at this location in Freeport 00:23:37.509 --> 00:23:41.789 I was able to watch the City Council meeting last week and just wanted to touch on a couple of the notes that you guys had 00:23:43.110 --> 00:23:47.710 The biggest being the key point would be traffic seem to be a big sticking point for a lot of people 00:23:48.549 --> 00:23:51.610 It's important to remember why this proposal is in front of you 00:23:51.869 --> 00:23:55.309 This is a business that requires a special use permit due to the nature of its operations 00:23:55.829 --> 00:23:58.349 Most businesses do not require that special use permits 00:23:58.349 --> 00:24:28.349 I fully acknowledge that the previous tenant Rosati's did not generate the level of traffic that this dispenser is expected to bring. However, if another business occupies this space, especially one that does not use a special use permit, we're going to likely be in the same situation, the same traffic thing with or without a special use permit. But we won't have that added tax benefit of that extra local 3% that I think is really important to have for us. So for example, if a high traffic restaurant like a Chipotle were to move in, we're going to have the same amount of traffic that we're going to have. 00:24:58.349 --> 00:25:09.180 That concludes our public comment. 00:25:09.180 --> 00:25:10.460 Next is the Consent Agenda. 00:25:10.460 --> 00:25:14.400 The Consent Agenda is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion unless the 00:25:14.400 --> 00:25:18.860 member of council would like to have something removed for further discussion. 00:25:18.860 --> 00:25:25.559 The Consent Agenda consists of approval to receive and place on file the Building Commission 00:25:25.559 --> 00:25:33.079 Minutes from October 15th, 2025. Zoning Board of Appeals from November 6th, 25 and February 5th, 00:25:33.079 --> 00:25:40.519 26. The Freeport Public Library Board, which is November 12th and December 10th, 25, January 20th, 00:25:40.519 --> 00:25:48.039 24th and February 11th, 26. Planning Commission, January 15th, February 12th, 26. The Revised 00:25:48.039 --> 00:25:52.920 Festival District Schedule approved by the Liquor Commission, 2026. The Greater Freeport 00:25:52.920 --> 00:25:58.779 Partnerships Monthly Report, March 26, the Cash and Investment as well as the 00:25:58.779 --> 00:26:04.319 Finance Department Report for December 25, Cash and Investment Report and the 00:26:04.319 --> 00:26:09.360 Finance Department Report for January 26, and the approval of the finance bills 00:26:09.360 --> 00:26:17.639 totaling $2,092,218.59 and payroll for pay period ending March 21, 00:26:17.639 --> 00:26:25.639 First, 2026, in the total of $721,730.86. Is there a motion to approve? 00:26:25.639 --> 00:26:26.639 So moved. Second. 00:26:26.639 --> 00:26:33.039 A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Madam Clerk, could you 00:26:33.039 --> 00:26:34.559 please take the roll? 00:26:34.559 --> 00:26:35.559 Stacy? 00:26:35.559 --> 00:26:36.559 Aye. 00:26:36.559 --> 00:26:37.559 Shadle? 00:26:37.559 --> 00:26:38.559 Aye. 00:26:38.559 --> 00:26:39.559 Sanders? 00:26:39.559 --> 00:26:40.559 Aye. 00:26:40.559 --> 00:26:41.559 Sellers? 00:26:41.559 --> 00:26:42.559 Aye. 00:26:42.559 --> 00:26:43.559 Klemm? 00:26:43.559 --> 00:26:46.930 Aye. 00:26:46.930 --> 00:26:47.930 Johnson? 00:26:47.930 --> 00:26:48.930 Aye. 00:26:48.930 --> 00:26:49.930 Simmons? 00:26:49.930 --> 00:26:53.930 Item number six is Appointments. Could you please read? 00:26:53.930 --> 00:27:01.930 We have several. Appointment of Deborah Leininger to the Ethics Commission effective through April 30th, 2028. 00:27:01.930 --> 00:27:07.930 Appointment of William Castle to the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners through April 30th, 2029. 00:27:07.930 --> 00:27:14.930 Appointment of Michael Kemple to the Planning Commission through October 31st, 2030. 00:27:14.930 --> 00:27:21.930 New appointment to the Historic Preservation Commission effective through February 28th, 2029, Rebecca Quiggle 00:27:21.930 --> 00:27:28.930 Three re-appointments to the Historic Preservation Commission through February 28th, 2029 00:27:28.930 --> 00:27:33.930 They will be Scott Lizer, Ryan Walton, and Brenda Myers 00:27:33.930 --> 00:27:35.930 Thank you. Is there a motion to approve? 00:27:35.930 --> 00:27:36.930 So moved 00:27:36.930 --> 00:27:37.930 Second 00:27:37.930 --> 00:27:40.930 In motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers 00:27:40.930 --> 00:27:43.930 Discussion on the appointments? 00:27:43.930 --> 00:28:17.230 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? Sure. Why not? Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Oh, aye. And Parker? Aye. The motion passes 8 to 0. You are right. My apologies. Item number seven is the second reading of ordinance 00:28:17.230 --> 00:28:23.150 2613. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending Chapter 1448, Erosion Control 00:28:23.150 --> 00:28:28.150 Permits. Thank you. Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. This ordinance came before 00:28:28.150 --> 00:28:32.710 Council March 9th for the Committee of the Whole where it was discussed with Randy Kohlbauer. 00:28:32.710 --> 00:28:38.070 It was moved for a second reading on March 16th with no additional questions. I haven't 00:28:38.070 --> 00:28:48.730 received any questions. And staff requests moving forward with this ordinance as proposed. 00:28:48.730 --> 00:28:50.570 Any discussion on the ordinance? 00:28:50.570 --> 00:28:53.570 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:28:53.570 --> 00:28:59.110 Stacy? 00:28:59.110 --> 00:29:00.110 Aye. 00:29:00.110 --> 00:29:01.110 Shadle? 00:29:01.110 --> 00:29:02.110 Aye. 00:29:02.110 --> 00:29:03.110 Sanders? 00:29:03.110 --> 00:29:04.110 Aye. 00:29:04.110 --> 00:29:05.110 Sellers? 00:29:05.110 --> 00:29:06.110 Aye. 00:29:06.110 --> 00:29:07.110 Klemm? 00:29:07.110 --> 00:29:08.110 Aye. 00:29:08.110 --> 00:29:09.110 Johnson? 00:29:09.110 --> 00:29:10.110 Aye. 00:29:10.110 --> 00:29:11.110 Simmons? 00:29:11.110 --> 00:29:12.110 Aye. 00:29:12.110 --> 00:29:13.110 And Parker? 00:29:13.110 --> 00:29:14.110 Aye. 00:29:14.110 --> 00:29:15.110 The ordinance passes 8-0. 00:29:15.110 --> 00:29:17.110 Item number 8 is the second reading of Ordinance 2026-14. 00:29:17.110 --> 00:29:18.590 Could you please read this? 00:29:18.590 --> 00:29:23.190 Ordinance amending Part 6, General Offenses, Chapter 660, Additional Hazardous 00:29:23.190 --> 00:29:31.150 Materials, Section 660-02, Definitions, 05, Prohibition, and Adding Sections, 09, Injunctive 00:29:31.150 --> 00:29:38.750 Relief and Administrative Hearing, 10.10, Access to Premises, 11, Notification of Discharge, 00:29:38.750 --> 00:29:44.470 12, Notice of Violations, 13, Suspension of Activities, and 14, Abatement Costs. 00:29:44.470 --> 00:29:45.470 Thank you. 00:29:45.470 --> 00:29:46.470 Manager Boyer? 00:29:46.470 --> 00:29:47.349 Thank you, Your Honor. 00:29:47.349 --> 00:29:53.110 Ordinance 2026-14 is upgrading and making some changes 00:29:53.110 --> 00:29:55.750 to the MS-4 stormwater permit, similar to the. 00:29:55.750 --> 00:29:59.440 Stormwater Permit, similar to the previous ordinance. This was brought to Council March 00:29:59.440 --> 00:30:04.759 9th, had first reading on the 16th, and was moved to second reading today. And staff recommends 00:30:04.759 --> 00:30:09.880 moving forward with this Stormwater additional hazardous materials ordinance. 00:30:09.880 --> 00:30:14.700 Thank you. Discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:30:14.700 --> 00:30:15.700 Stacy? 00:30:15.700 --> 00:30:16.700 Aye. 00:30:16.700 --> 00:30:17.700 Shadle? 00:30:17.700 --> 00:30:18.700 Aye. 00:30:18.700 --> 00:30:19.700 Sanders? 00:30:19.700 --> 00:30:20.700 Aye. 00:30:20.700 --> 00:30:21.700 Sellers? 00:30:21.700 --> 00:30:22.700 Aye. 00:30:22.700 --> 00:30:23.700 Klemm? 00:30:23.700 --> 00:30:24.700 Aye. 00:30:24.700 --> 00:30:31.059 Parker. The ordinance passes 8 to 0. And item number 9 is the second reading of 00:30:31.059 --> 00:30:36.900 Ordinance 2026-15. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending Part 10, Streets, Utilities, 00:30:36.900 --> 00:30:45.339 and Public Services, Title 4, Utilities, Chapter 1046, Sewers, Section 1046-59, Discharge of 00:30:45.339 --> 00:30:52.579 Storm, Surface, or Groundwater into Sanitary Sewers, and amending Part 10, Streets, Utilities, 00:30:52.579 --> 00:31:01.859 Public Services, Title IV, Utilities, Chapter 1050, Storm Sewers, Section 1050-08, Elicit 00:31:01.859 --> 00:31:02.859 Discharge. 00:31:02.859 --> 00:31:03.859 Thank you. 00:31:03.859 --> 00:31:04.859 Manager Boyer. 00:31:04.859 --> 00:31:06.819 Again, very similar to the last two ordinances. 00:31:06.819 --> 00:31:08.940 This was brought before council on the 9th. 00:31:08.940 --> 00:31:12.619 It was moved to second reading on the 16th. 00:31:12.619 --> 00:31:19.019 This was, I've not received any additional questions for the MS4, again, stormwater related 00:31:19.019 --> 00:31:20.019 ordinance. 00:31:20.019 --> 00:31:34.460 We're discussing the infiltration of groundwater into sanitary sewers that we're talking about, 00:31:34.460 --> 00:31:37.140 Manager Boyer. 00:31:37.140 --> 00:31:41.319 This is just an upgrading of the storm water permit or the storm water requirements related 00:31:41.319 --> 00:31:47.619 to our MS4 permit that is municipal separate storm sewer permit. 00:31:47.619 --> 00:31:53.720 So that is a part of overall management of stormwater, but this particular upgrade is 00:31:53.720 --> 00:31:57.259 just simply updating things that are required by our MS4 permit. 00:31:57.259 --> 00:32:00.119 Okay. 00:32:00.119 --> 00:32:03.119 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:32:03.119 --> 00:32:04.119 Stacy? 00:32:04.119 --> 00:32:05.119 Aye. 00:32:05.119 --> 00:32:06.119 Shadle? 00:32:06.119 --> 00:32:07.119 Aye. 00:32:07.119 --> 00:32:08.119 Sanders? 00:32:08.119 --> 00:32:09.119 Aye. 00:32:09.119 --> 00:32:10.119 Sellers? 00:32:10.119 --> 00:32:11.119 Aye. 00:32:11.119 --> 00:32:12.119 Klemm? 00:32:12.119 --> 00:32:13.119 Aye. 00:32:13.119 --> 00:32:14.119 Johnson? 00:32:14.119 --> 00:32:15.119 Aye. 00:32:15.119 --> 00:32:16.119 Simmons? 00:32:16.119 --> 00:32:17.119 Aye. 00:32:17.119 --> 00:32:18.119 Parker? 00:32:18.119 --> 00:32:19.119 Aye. 00:32:19.119 --> 00:32:28.160 Ordinance Amending Part 10, Streets, Utilities, and Public Services, Title IV, Utilities, 00:32:28.160 --> 00:32:36.079 Chapter 1040, Utilities Generally, and Section 1040.07A and B, Connection Required, Aligning 00:32:36.079 --> 00:32:37.559 with New Julie Laws. 00:32:37.559 --> 00:32:39.700 Thank you, Manager Boyer. 00:32:39.700 --> 00:32:40.700 Thank you, Your Honor. 00:32:40.700 --> 00:32:44.779 Again, this was brought before Council for the Committee of the Whole, also the last 00:32:44.779 --> 00:32:45.779 Council meeting. 00:32:45.779 --> 00:32:49.740 there are no questions in between those two meetings and staff is recommending 00:32:49.740 --> 00:32:56.690 moving forward with the proposed ordinances as written. Discussion? Madam 00:32:56.690 --> 00:33:05.049 Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. 00:33:05.049 --> 00:33:14.650 Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. The ordinance passes 8 to 0. And item number 11 00:33:14.650 --> 00:33:18.490 is the second reading of Ordinance 2026-17. Could you please read this? 00:33:18.490 --> 00:33:24.970 Ordinance approving a special use permit to allow adult use cannabis dispensing facility at 2725 00:33:24.970 --> 00:33:28.730 Illinois Route 26, Unit A. Thank you. Director Heimerdinger. 00:33:29.450 --> 00:33:35.049 Thank you, Madam Mayor. Staff received a special use permit application from Botavi Wellness LLC 00:33:35.049 --> 00:33:42.889 to allow adult use cannabis dispensing application at 2725 Illinois Route 26, Unit A, in a B3 00:33:42.889 --> 00:33:45.369 We are a commercial wholesale business district. 00:33:45.369 --> 00:33:51.369 The proposed location meets all the distance requirements set forth in Chapter 1274 and 00:33:51.369 --> 00:33:55.210 is a vacant unit in a commercial shopping center with ample parking. 00:33:55.210 --> 00:34:01.170 The petitioners provided some data from our last council meeting from four other Illinois 00:34:01.170 --> 00:34:08.929 locations showing peak traffic between 4 and 9 p.m., usually on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. 00:34:08.929 --> 00:34:16.210 there is a average of 30 vehicles per hour during that time. This is a modest increase in traffic 00:34:16.210 --> 00:34:21.970 is expected to bring more visitors to the corridor benefiting surrounding businesses, enhancing 00:34:21.970 --> 00:34:27.730 economic activity. And also as noted during the last council meeting, another business that does 00:34:27.730 --> 00:34:34.449 not require a special use permit could easily hit similar traffic peaks. Honestly, I looked this up 00:34:34.449 --> 00:34:41.010 this afternoon, a fast food restaurant like Chipotle could hit an average of over a hundred 00:34:41.010 --> 00:34:48.170 vehicles in one hour. So that's more than three times the amount of this facility. Both 00:34:48.170 --> 00:34:52.769 the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Planning Commission recommend approval. Staff also 00:34:52.769 --> 00:35:06.409 recommends approval of the special use permit. Thank you. Discussion on this ordinance? Yes. 00:35:06.409 --> 00:35:17.929 The three whatever percent that the city is supposed to gain from this dispensary coming, 00:35:17.929 --> 00:35:26.929 what are the chances of it being put in a account for our roads, something that productive 00:35:26.929 --> 00:35:32.889 that we as a city need rather than just everything going to the general fund? 00:35:32.889 --> 00:35:39.690 yeah that's um i'll actually um uh share with you something that my lovely lady sitting right here 00:35:39.690 --> 00:35:44.809 printed off for me today that kind of outlines a breakdown of the taxes that the city will see 00:35:44.809 --> 00:35:49.690 um it's actually going to be a little bit larger than three percent um based on this there is a 00:35:49.690 --> 00:35:55.610 half a percent that goes to county public safety that's not us um then there's a home rule tax 00:35:55.610 --> 00:36:03.130 Dix, which is two and a quarter. So that would be us. Then there's county that gets 3%. Municipal 00:36:04.010 --> 00:36:10.489 is 3%. And then state taxes, six and a quarter. And we see 1% of that. So the amounts that we're 00:36:11.369 --> 00:36:21.210 receiving will be six and a quarter percent on the sales generated. With that, 00:36:21.210 --> 00:36:26.429 Scott. We can always open up the discussion internally to speak to that and bring that 00:36:26.429 --> 00:36:33.570 up to council if we do see that kind of, you know, out of that 6% if some amount needs 00:36:33.570 --> 00:36:38.289 to go to roads, if some amount needs to go to community things, you know. I'm always 00:36:38.289 --> 00:36:47.190 willing to put the funding where you guys think it needs to go. We also had some projections 00:36:47.190 --> 00:36:52.190 Given to us in the first month from zero to three months, 00:36:52.630 --> 00:36:55.210 they're looking at projections of sales, 00:36:55.210 --> 00:36:58.970 gross sales of 300K to 500K, 00:36:58.970 --> 00:37:00.650 which when you have the breakdown, 00:37:00.650 --> 00:37:05.650 that means that we'll be seeing $18,750 to $31,250 00:37:08.289 --> 00:37:11.170 every month for those first three months. 00:37:11.170 --> 00:37:16.170 And then the projections from month four and beyond 00:37:17.190 --> 00:37:26.269 indicate $600,000 to $1 million a month in their gross sales, which gives us per month 00:37:26.269 --> 00:37:33.110 somewhere between $37,000 and $500 to $62,500. 00:37:33.110 --> 00:37:38.869 When you calculate that out, that would be about half a million to three quarters of a 00:37:38.869 --> 00:37:41.750 million dollars in extra revenue to the city. 00:37:41.750 --> 00:37:45.409 Olin, Klemm? 00:37:45.409 --> 00:37:46.409 Yes. 00:37:46.409 --> 00:37:56.409 First of all, I'd like to thank Dan Stevens for his input that he put in, the Zuber-Brillers, for the input that you guys put in, his business people. 00:37:56.409 --> 00:38:09.409 And we did have some meetings, Alderman Shadle and I, and the city manager, and Gertrude, from Community Development. 00:38:09.409 --> 00:38:15.250 and we do realize that there's a problem there traffic wise but it's a problem that we feel as 00:38:15.250 --> 00:38:21.570 though can be fixed with some fairly minor stuff but there will need to be some work done. Like 00:38:21.570 --> 00:38:28.449 the lot in between there, I went out and counted spaces at a certain time just to see and the lot 00:38:28.449 --> 00:38:35.010 size itself between the two is abundance of a room there. There's no ifs, ands, or buts about that. 00:38:35.010 --> 00:38:40.529 The problem becomes as the cars entering and the cars leaving 00:38:40.529 --> 00:38:43.970 and there could be some modifications made 00:38:43.970 --> 00:38:46.970 like from the car wash which way they go out 00:38:46.970 --> 00:38:50.489 okay from how traffic is directed 00:38:50.489 --> 00:38:54.369 into Menards how the south end of the 00:38:54.369 --> 00:38:58.409 the whole the whole development 00:38:58.409 --> 00:39:03.250 is really not used and is not used properly the way it could 00:39:03.250 --> 00:39:07.529 you know we have one business coming in here but we instantly found out as we 00:39:07.529 --> 00:39:12.550 talked they've got three empty lots out there that's gonna be big problems when 00:39:12.550 --> 00:39:17.650 somebody does develop and what we need to do there are TIF funds available to 00:39:17.650 --> 00:39:22.050 work on that and I believe also that there are plenty of people that are 00:39:22.050 --> 00:39:28.090 involved that would be willing to take a look at other opportunities for what we 00:39:28.090 --> 00:39:32.369 can do you know we had the same discussion that Dan had was the only 00:39:32.369 --> 00:39:35.710 difference was Dan said it'd go to leaner and go someplace else. 00:39:36.750 --> 00:39:40.269 Greg and I said to go 50 feet out of town someplace, you know, 00:39:40.269 --> 00:39:43.670 so either way, we would without a doubt lose it. 00:39:43.750 --> 00:39:46.869 And it is a quite a. 00:39:48.769 --> 00:39:51.610 Does put a quite a effect on the amount of money coming in, 00:39:51.949 --> 00:39:54.010 and it would be a good idea to sit back. 00:39:54.010 --> 00:39:55.079 and it would be a good idea to sit back and determine 00:39:55.079 --> 00:39:59.320 where that goes to because of, 00:39:59.320 --> 00:40:01.000 even though the general fund goes 00:40:01.000 --> 00:40:02.199 to every place in the world, 00:40:02.199 --> 00:40:06.360 remember the general fund also pays for all the retirements, 00:40:06.360 --> 00:40:08.719 pays for all the things that need to be done, 00:40:08.719 --> 00:40:11.519 pays for the equipment and pays for all that kind of stuff. 00:40:11.519 --> 00:40:15.159 So I think before we instantly say, let's put it in this, 00:40:15.159 --> 00:40:17.559 let's make sure we know what we wanna do with it, 00:40:17.559 --> 00:40:20.480 but I will vote in favor of it 00:40:20.480 --> 00:40:23.840 Due to the research we've done afterwards and everything. 00:40:23.840 --> 00:40:25.960 Thank you guys for that. 00:40:25.960 --> 00:40:27.119 Alderman Sellers. 00:40:27.119 --> 00:40:32.559 Yes, I just want to say that I am very much in support of this. 00:40:32.559 --> 00:40:35.199 I said, but I also look at it with the revenue that's 00:40:35.199 --> 00:40:36.320 coming in. 00:40:36.320 --> 00:40:37.960 I know that there is a portion. 00:40:37.960 --> 00:40:40.840 I know it was also said something 00:40:40.840 --> 00:40:43.840 about the law enforcement part. 00:40:43.840 --> 00:40:45.119 They get theirs. 00:40:45.119 --> 00:40:47.800 And I know that there is going to be coming down the pipe 00:40:47.800 --> 00:40:49.420 pretty soon, that we're going to have 00:40:49.420 --> 00:40:50.420 Huffines. 00:40:50.420 --> 00:40:55.860 So that right there would also help that we don't have to go out to taxpayers asking 00:40:55.860 --> 00:40:58.340 for more money in that kind of way. 00:40:58.340 --> 00:41:01.139 But I do think that we need the revenue. 00:41:01.139 --> 00:41:06.619 If we got a door open, let's try to get in it and get what we can and do what we can 00:41:06.619 --> 00:41:08.820 out of the best money that we get. 00:41:08.820 --> 00:41:10.780 So I'm in support of it. 00:41:10.780 --> 00:41:16.139 Okay, so I totally agree that, you know, we need to be thinking about where we want 00:41:16.139 --> 00:41:18.019 to allocate these monies. 00:41:18.019 --> 00:41:22.420 that's a whole different topic so this is about the special use permit so if you 00:41:22.420 --> 00:41:27.019 want to have further discussions on allocating specific places let's have 00:41:27.019 --> 00:41:33.539 that discussion and get that brought forward so Alderman Shadle yes thank you 00:41:33.539 --> 00:41:40.179 um I'm not making light of the fact that the discussion has been about the tax 00:41:40.179 --> 00:41:47.019 benefits here but on to compound on top of that is going to be the traffic count 00:42:17.019 --> 00:42:25.019 Very much see more development coming specifically from the traffic of this establishment. 00:42:25.019 --> 00:42:28.590 Gorman, Stacy? 00:42:28.590 --> 00:42:38.590 You know, when this was first spoke about, you said that there would be 300 to 500 customers per day. 00:42:38.590 --> 00:42:47.590 Now, today you're comparing it to a food place with 100 customers an hour. 00:42:47.590 --> 00:42:53.590 and we're always talking about development, development, development. 00:42:53.590 --> 00:43:03.309 Truth be told, nobody's coming to Freeport or else they would have already been here. 00:43:03.309 --> 00:43:11.309 We've been without a family restaurant for years and nothing. 00:43:11.309 --> 00:43:24.920 So I don't think you can compare it to a Chipotle 00:43:24.920 --> 00:43:33.000 and say that there's going to be 100 customers an hour to the dispensary when you already 00:43:33.000 --> 00:43:40.730 said it's going to be 300 to 500 per day. 00:43:40.730 --> 00:43:48.730 I don't know what the purpose was for that, to compare the dispensary to Chipotle. 00:43:48.730 --> 00:43:54.570 The purpose of that was to compare that this needs a special use, the dispensary needs 00:43:54.570 --> 00:43:57.469 a special use permit. 00:43:57.469 --> 00:44:02.590 else. It is zoned a restaurant, which means that it's very easy for a restaurant to move in there. 00:44:03.710 --> 00:44:10.429 Based on the square footage, a Chipotle can usually, a Chipotle, a Subway, the other one that's 00:44:10.429 --> 00:44:18.349 similar to Chipotle also could fit into that kind of footprint. So that is the restaurant that I 00:44:18.349 --> 00:44:25.230 chose to look in, you know, what is the average during peak times. And that just leads into the 00:44:25.230 --> 00:44:31.369 with the traffic discussion from last time into understanding that yes, there is traffic. 00:44:31.369 --> 00:44:35.570 Yes, this will produce traffic, but it won't produce as much traffic as something else 00:44:35.570 --> 00:44:42.590 where you have no control over, and it doesn't need a special use, and it could move in there 00:44:42.590 --> 00:44:43.590 tomorrow. 00:44:43.590 --> 00:44:50.010 So it's just to give a analysis of, you know, you see this as a traffic issue, but it could 00:44:50.010 --> 00:44:55.170 would be even more of a traffic issue with a different property or a different restaurant 00:44:55.170 --> 00:44:56.170 moving in. 00:44:56.170 --> 00:44:57.170 Thank you. 00:44:57.170 --> 00:45:00.010 Alderman Sanders? 00:45:00.010 --> 00:45:13.929 Not only we're talking about traffic and the designation of how we're going to construct 00:45:13.929 --> 00:45:18.929 to enter and the exits of this building 00:45:19.050 --> 00:45:22.849 or this possible development of a building. 00:45:22.849 --> 00:45:27.849 But we also has to consider the image. 00:45:29.409 --> 00:45:33.889 You gotta make sure that the development 00:45:33.889 --> 00:45:38.210 and reconstructing of that area has the image 00:45:39.130 --> 00:45:41.929 that the community would wanna see 00:45:41.929 --> 00:45:59.929 We just don't want to have a parking lot full of cars and the presentation of this building next to my building does not depreciate my location and that's what that's what this might develop into and so we have to take those things into consideration. 00:45:59.929 --> 00:46:04.090 Depreciates My Location. 00:46:04.090 --> 00:46:07.849 And that's what this might develop into. 00:46:07.849 --> 00:46:10.610 And so we have to take those things into consideration. 00:46:10.610 --> 00:46:20.409 Have we done an overall outlook for such a thing 00:46:20.409 --> 00:46:24.289 from the community to determine whether or not what we're 00:46:24.289 --> 00:46:28.970 going to, how we're going to make this place presentable 00:46:28.970 --> 00:46:32.789 to the community where even the most average person 00:46:32.789 --> 00:46:36.470 wouldn't mind walking, coming to this area 00:46:36.470 --> 00:46:38.429 and looking at this location. 00:46:38.429 --> 00:46:42.510 When we look at a Walmart and its location 00:46:42.510 --> 00:46:47.510 and the image of Walmart, 00:46:48.230 --> 00:46:52.470 it is highly congested almost throughout the week. 00:46:53.869 --> 00:46:58.130 Traffic is something that you have to hurdle through. 00:46:58.970 --> 00:47:04.650 in the in the Walmart area or any other area but when we're talking this many people 00:47:05.369 --> 00:47:12.010 cars trafficking through this area for this we're not only just talking about this company I'm not 00:47:12.010 --> 00:47:19.529 against it I'm just thinking about the the appreciation value of the of the the surrounding 00:47:19.529 --> 00:47:31.210 area, when that happens because presence considered for all of this needs to be respectful to 00:47:31.210 --> 00:47:38.230 the community at large when they're envisioning it has an envision of what this location because 00:47:38.230 --> 00:47:49.250 if you don't have the proper curving, proper roadway, proper marking and logos 00:47:49.250 --> 00:47:59.570 and Stans. When I say Stans, I mean signs. Signs where people can say, well, I know 00:47:59.570 --> 00:48:03.909 what we're getting involved in. Because a lot of people in the community don't see 00:48:03.909 --> 00:48:10.809 this coming yet. And to wake up one day and see a dispensary sitting in my backyard or 00:48:10.809 --> 00:48:19.690 for sitting in my community. Me, myself, I want to make sure that it looks like a normal 00:48:19.690 --> 00:48:29.050 place. I don't even know what it's going to look like. And I think the people in the city 00:48:29.050 --> 00:48:33.929 is not going to know exactly what it's going to look like. So presentation means everything. 00:48:33.929 --> 00:49:03.929 Yep. There was a presentation given last last council meeting where we showed not only the floor plans, but the elevations that were given to us by the company. And it is going to they're not doing much to the exterior. They are putting up a nice appropriate sign that says Nirvana. It will look like it does now just just a sign that says the name and it's they're not doing anything 00:49:03.929 --> 00:49:23.369 Herndon, Chasau, 00:49:23.369 --> 00:49:52.199 Anyone else? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? No. Shadle? No. Sanders? No. Sellers? No. Klemm? No. Johnson? No. Simmons? Alderperson Simmons, are we still connected to you? 00:49:52.199 --> 00:50:05.940 Collins. Are we still connected to you? Yes, we can. Okay, no. Parker? Yes. The vote is 00:50:05.940 --> 00:50:14.219 a tie, four to four. Mayor, what say you? Aye. And the ordinance passes five to four. 00:50:14.219 --> 00:50:18.780 Item number 12 is the first reading of ordinance 2026-18. Could you please read this? Ordinance 00:50:18.780 --> 00:50:25.860 That's amending section 806.20 regarding non-licensee alcoholic liquor delivery services of the 00:50:25.860 --> 00:50:26.860 liquor codes. 00:50:26.860 --> 00:50:27.860 Thank you. 00:50:27.860 --> 00:50:28.860 Attorney Cox? 00:50:28.860 --> 00:50:37.659 Good evening everybody. 00:50:37.659 --> 00:50:39.579 Not a terribly exciting one here. 00:50:39.579 --> 00:50:45.380 We're proposing an amendment which comes as a suggestion from the Liquor Commission to 00:50:45.380 --> 00:50:49.219 section 806.20 with the codified ordinances. 00:50:49.219 --> 00:50:55.139 This regards licensee or non-licensee delivery services of liquor. 00:50:55.139 --> 00:51:01.500 We had previously provided, as part of best practices, coming out of COVID, there was 00:51:01.500 --> 00:51:06.880 expected to be a need for a liquor delivery or a demand for that. 00:51:06.880 --> 00:51:12.059 Best practice at the time suggested that we enact some regulations around that so we could 00:51:12.059 --> 00:51:14.099 just prevent a free-for-all, I guess. 00:51:14.099 --> 00:51:15.699 So we enacted those regulations. 00:51:15.699 --> 00:51:24.940 We have had exactly zero applications for those licenses thus far and recently the Illinois 00:51:24.940 --> 00:51:33.699 Liquor Control Act was amended so that the state has preempted local permitting of these 00:51:33.699 --> 00:51:42.940 types of services probably for the purpose of promoting GrubHub, DoorDash, those sorts 00:51:42.940 --> 00:51:43.940 Fowler. 00:51:43.940 --> 00:51:48.719 So the state has reserved unto itself the sole authority to license these sorts of things 00:51:48.719 --> 00:51:51.420 and taken that authority away from us. 00:51:51.420 --> 00:51:55.940 So what we're suggesting is that the ordinance not be completely deleted, but simply reserved 00:51:55.940 --> 00:52:02.519 to the local authority, the ability to ensure that our licensees or people operating within 00:52:02.519 --> 00:52:04.599 the city are complying with state statute. 00:52:04.599 --> 00:52:06.219 So there's no permit required anymore. 00:52:06.219 --> 00:52:10.280 There's no specific regulations that are unique to Freeport. 00:52:10.280 --> 00:52:16.840 but if Freeport code enforcement law enforcement needs to utilize the state statute, they can 00:52:16.840 --> 00:52:20.719 select whether they want to enforce under the ordinance or the statute, just like most of 00:52:20.719 --> 00:52:28.900 our criminal code provisions which have adopted the state ordinances or the state statutes. 00:52:28.900 --> 00:52:31.880 Is there a motion to move this ordinance forward to the next meeting? 00:52:31.880 --> 00:52:32.880 So moved. 00:52:32.880 --> 00:52:33.880 Second. 00:52:33.880 --> 00:52:38.739 We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 00:52:38.739 --> 00:52:49.230 on the ordinance. Okay, thank you. Item number 13 is the first reading of ordinance 2026-19. 00:52:49.230 --> 00:52:55.949 Could you please read this? Ordinance amending part four traffic code title eight parking chapter 00:52:55.949 --> 00:53:03.869 480 parking generally section 480.24 d regarding disabled persons and veteran parking designations 00:53:04.429 --> 00:53:09.550 the spot we're looking at tonight is 520 south harlem avenue thank you manager boyer 00:53:11.070 --> 00:53:22.070 Turn that on. As we do from time to time, receive requests for disabled parking or ADA parking stalls at various locations. This one is at 520 South Harlem. 00:53:22.070 --> 00:53:38.070 The tenant has requested the ADA parking stall and staff is recommending moving forward with this as well as a suspension of the rules so we can get this getting the signage put up right away so that we can make sure that this is taken care of rapidly. 00:53:38.070 --> 00:53:40.989 So a motion to move this forward? 00:53:40.989 --> 00:53:41.989 So a motion. 00:53:41.989 --> 00:53:42.989 Second. 00:53:42.989 --> 00:53:47.150 A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle. 00:53:47.150 --> 00:53:48.150 Discussion on the ordinance? 00:53:48.150 --> 00:53:50.309 A motion to suspend the rules. 00:53:50.309 --> 00:53:51.309 Second. 00:53:51.309 --> 00:53:57.389 A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers to suspend the rules. 00:53:57.389 --> 00:54:00.630 Suspension of the rules is non-debatable and must pass by two-thirds majority. 00:54:00.630 --> 00:54:04.550 Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll on the suspension only? 00:54:04.550 --> 00:54:05.550 Stacy? 00:54:05.550 --> 00:54:06.550 Excuse me. 00:54:06.550 --> 00:54:07.550 Aye. 00:54:07.550 --> 00:54:25.730 Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Kurt? Have we lost her? 00:54:25.730 --> 00:54:39.539 We'll skip her for now. Parker? Aye. We'll give IT one second here. There will be no vote. 00:54:39.539 --> 00:54:45.260 We only needed six. We got seven to zero on the suspension. So then before you is 00:54:45.260 --> 00:55:13.260 I just want to add that this section of Harlem Avenue is parking only on one side of the street, and the houses are kind of tight together, and parking is at a premium, and in this person's case, they're not going to be able to make the trek from four or five doors down, and it just makes nothing but sense to give them a chance to park in front of them. 00:55:13.260 --> 00:55:18.019 to give them a chance to park in front of their house. 00:55:18.019 --> 00:55:19.019 Anyone else? 00:55:19.019 --> 00:55:22.500 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:55:22.500 --> 00:55:23.500 Stacy? 00:55:23.500 --> 00:55:24.500 Aye. 00:55:24.500 --> 00:55:25.500 Shadle? 00:55:25.500 --> 00:55:26.500 Aye. 00:55:26.500 --> 00:55:27.500 Sanders? 00:55:27.500 --> 00:55:28.500 Aye. 00:55:28.500 --> 00:55:29.500 Sellers? 00:55:29.500 --> 00:55:30.500 Aye. 00:55:30.500 --> 00:55:31.500 Klemm? 00:55:31.500 --> 00:55:32.500 Aye. 00:55:32.500 --> 00:55:33.500 Johnson? 00:55:33.500 --> 00:55:34.500 Aye. 00:55:34.500 --> 00:55:35.500 Simmons? 00:55:35.500 --> 00:55:36.500 Not yet. 00:55:36.500 --> 00:55:37.500 Absent at the moment. 00:55:37.500 --> 00:55:38.500 Parker? 00:55:38.500 --> 00:55:39.500 Aye. 00:55:39.500 --> 00:55:40.500 The ordinance still passes 7-0. 00:55:40.500 --> 00:55:44.500 14 is the first reading of Ordinance 2026-20. Could you please read this? 00:55:44.500 --> 00:55:52.539 Supplemental Appropriation Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2026 for Use of Reserve Funds for Cities 00:55:52.539 --> 00:55:58.340 20% Match on STU Funded Road Improvements. Thank you. Manager Boyer. 00:55:58.340 --> 00:56:05.139 Thank you, Your Honor. Last, I guess, January, we were notified by IDOT that they were going 00:56:05.139 --> 00:56:12.260 to move forward with several STU federal route resurfacing projects. Those projects are Adams 00:56:12.260 --> 00:56:19.139 Avenue from Float to Main, South Walnut from Empire to South, Lincoln from Locust to West, 00:56:19.139 --> 00:56:25.099 and Stevenson Street, Sunset to Locust. Staff, this is obviously not budgeted. There is a 00:56:25.099 --> 00:56:30.179 match related to this. We're expecting about a two and a half million dollars worth of 00:56:30.179 --> 00:56:37.179 for the funding coming through IDOT, but staff needs a million dollar authorization to cover 00:56:37.179 --> 00:56:42.539 the match with local funds so that we can get these projects completed. 00:56:42.539 --> 00:56:47.659 So staff is asking for suspension of the rules as construction season is warming up every 00:56:47.659 --> 00:56:48.659 day. 00:56:48.659 --> 00:56:52.739 We'd like to have this done and taken care of so we can move forward with these reconstructs. 00:56:52.739 --> 00:57:00.300 and so staff is asking for appropriation of a million dollars for the STU fund match. 00:57:00.300 --> 00:57:01.300 Thank you. 00:57:01.300 --> 00:57:02.880 Is there a motion to move this forward? 00:57:02.880 --> 00:57:03.880 So moved. 00:57:03.880 --> 00:57:04.880 Second. 00:57:04.880 --> 00:57:08.500 A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 00:57:08.500 --> 00:57:09.500 Discussion on the ordinance? 00:57:09.500 --> 00:57:10.500 Alderman Stacey? 00:57:10.500 --> 00:57:11.500 Yes. 00:57:11.500 --> 00:57:17.239 Where will this million dollar match come from? 00:57:17.239 --> 00:57:24.289 It will come from the general fund reserve. 00:57:24.289 --> 00:57:25.289 Anyone else? 00:57:25.289 --> 00:57:26.289 Alderman Parker? 00:57:26.289 --> 00:57:28.289 We have a motion to suspend the rules. 00:57:28.289 --> 00:57:30.289 Second. 00:57:30.289 --> 00:57:34.289 We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle to suspend the rules. 00:57:34.289 --> 00:57:38.289 Again, suspension of the rules is non-debatable and was passed by a two-thirds majority. 00:57:38.289 --> 00:57:41.289 Larry, I'll get to you after this vote. 00:57:41.289 --> 00:57:47.289 Well, my whole thing is it was open for discussion first before the suspension of the rule. 00:57:47.289 --> 00:57:48.289 Well, correct. 00:57:48.289 --> 00:57:50.289 I have to be able to voice my... 00:57:50.289 --> 00:57:51.289 You can. 00:57:51.289 --> 00:57:54.289 No, not after the fact, before the fact. 00:57:54.289 --> 00:58:04.789 Well, when there's a motion on the floor, it's non-debatable, so we're not talking about it. Madam Clerk, could you please take the role on the suspension only, and then we'll come back to you, Alderman Sanders. 00:58:04.789 --> 00:58:06.289 Stacy. 00:58:06.289 --> 00:58:12.289 Okay, I just have a question. What if his question is pertaining to the suspension? 00:58:12.289 --> 00:58:17.559 It can't. It's a non-debatable thing. 00:58:17.559 --> 00:58:19.559 It's non-debatable. 00:58:19.559 --> 00:58:27.559 Okay, first of all, you say it's non-debatable. My whole thing is, we have not had a formal discussion. 00:58:27.559 --> 00:58:28.559 Which we can do now. 00:58:28.559 --> 00:58:35.000 We have not had a, before you can suspend a rule, there should have been a formal discussion 00:58:35.000 --> 00:58:41.360 so people can educate and learn why such a rule has been placed before them. I mean, 00:58:41.360 --> 00:58:47.320 you get, you're blocking other discussion matters on the subject, and that is what's 00:58:47.320 --> 00:58:57.300 Zito, Attorney Zito, There was an opportunity, but you didn't speak up to say you wanted 00:58:57.300 --> 00:58:59.980 to speak, and then a motion to suspend was made. 00:58:59.980 --> 00:59:02.440 So sometimes you have to be on the spot with that. 00:59:02.440 --> 00:59:10.599 That said, you will still have an opportunity to speak on this after the suspension motion 00:59:10.599 --> 00:59:12.220 is taken up. 00:59:12.220 --> 00:59:14.320 There's still an opportunity for discussion on this. 00:59:14.320 --> 00:59:17.760 Madam Clerk, please take the role in the suspension only. 00:59:17.760 --> 00:59:20.039 Stacy? 00:59:20.039 --> 00:59:31.539 This is to suspend the rules for the STU funding. 00:59:31.539 --> 00:59:37.989 Move it to second reading. 00:59:37.989 --> 00:59:38.989 Yes. 00:59:38.989 --> 00:59:39.989 Shadle? 00:59:39.989 --> 00:59:40.989 Aye. 00:59:40.989 --> 00:59:41.989 Sanders? 00:59:41.989 --> 00:59:42.989 Aye. 00:59:42.989 --> 00:59:43.989 Sellers? 00:59:43.989 --> 00:59:44.989 Aye. 00:59:44.989 --> 00:59:45.989 Klemm? 00:59:45.989 --> 00:59:46.989 Aye. 00:59:46.989 --> 00:59:47.989 Johnson? 00:59:47.989 --> 00:59:48.989 Aye. 00:59:48.989 --> 00:59:49.989 Simmons? 00:59:49.989 --> 00:59:50.989 Same. 00:59:50.989 --> 00:59:51.989 Yes. 00:59:51.989 --> 00:59:52.989 And Parker? 00:59:52.989 --> 00:59:53.989 Yes. 00:59:53.989 --> 01:00:01.519 and Parker. Yes. That motion passes eight to zero. Okay. So now before you is this is the final reading for this, which is on the floor. So Alderman Sanders, would you like to have your time to be able to ask your questions? 01:00:02.800 --> 01:00:17.440 Well, it's not a question. It's a it's a procedure. That's what it is on things that we have not discussed as a council to to even debate or make a determination whether it's 01:00:17.440 --> 01:00:26.400 is acceptable, between members of the council, what we're making decisions on is appropriate 01:00:26.400 --> 01:00:30.519 for the people of the city of- Okay, Aldrin Sanders, I got to stop you. 01:00:30.519 --> 01:00:32.079 That's not what we're talking about now. 01:00:32.079 --> 01:00:36.960 What's on the floor is the supplemental appropriation ordinance for the STU. 01:00:36.960 --> 01:00:42.199 It's not about the order of whether or not it's appropriate to call for suspension at 01:00:42.199 --> 01:00:43.199 what time. 01:00:43.199 --> 01:00:44.199 You're right. 01:00:44.199 --> 01:00:45.199 You're right. 01:00:45.199 --> 01:00:46.199 I'm sorry. 01:00:46.199 --> 01:00:47.199 I apologize for that. 01:00:47.199 --> 01:00:53.559 Any discussion on this ordinance? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 01:00:53.559 --> 01:01:05.360 Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Klemm. Aye. Johnson. Aye. Simmons. Aye. 01:01:05.360 --> 01:01:13.139 And Parker. Aye. And the ordinance passes 8 to 0. And item number 15 is the first 01:01:13.139 --> 01:01:16.380 First reading of Ordinance 2026-21. Could you please read this? 01:01:16.380 --> 01:01:22.539 Ordinance amending Title 10, Employment Provisions, Chapter 290, Compensation and Benefits, Section 01:01:22.539 --> 01:01:30.059 290.01e, regarding classification plan to add a full-time information technology technician. 01:01:30.059 --> 01:01:32.460 Director Suttman. 01:01:32.460 --> 01:01:39.860 Thank you. The IT department was formed in 2017. Since that time, the IT department has 01:01:39.860 --> 01:01:45.820 has rapidly modernized and expanded the technology capabilities of the City of Freeport. 01:01:45.820 --> 01:01:51.300 This modernization and expansion has also increased the workload required to maintain these capabilities 01:01:51.300 --> 01:01:57.940 while still trying to innovate and further increase capabilities. 01:01:57.940 --> 01:02:02.699 An IET technician position was proposed in the fiscal year 26 budget. 01:02:02.699 --> 01:02:05.199 It didn't make the cut. 01:02:05.199 --> 01:02:10.880 but a position was approved for a nuisance department in community development. 01:02:10.880 --> 01:02:13.639 Working with the community development director and city manager, we now believe that the 01:02:13.639 --> 01:02:18.800 desired improvement to the nuisance violation compliance can be achieved through additional 01:02:18.800 --> 01:02:22.559 IT support and new technologies. 01:02:22.559 --> 01:02:27.800 Using IT as a force multiplier, adding the position of IT technician should also allow 01:02:27.800 --> 01:02:31.679 for similar improvements across most other departments. 01:02:31.679 --> 01:02:36.679 The funding for this position will come through a combination of the budgeted nuisance person 01:02:36.679 --> 01:02:38.400 as well as water and sewer funds. 01:02:38.400 --> 01:02:42.480 The water and sewer funds are needed because they will inevitably perform some work on 01:02:42.480 --> 01:02:47.699 water and sewer software equipment. 01:02:47.699 --> 01:02:52.400 This ordinance supports the efficient government goal of our strategic plan and STAC recommends 01:02:52.400 --> 01:02:55.199 moving it to the second reading. 01:02:55.199 --> 01:02:56.199 Thank you, Director Summon. 01:02:56.199 --> 01:02:57.719 Is there a motion to move this forward? 01:02:57.719 --> 01:02:58.719 Summon. 01:02:58.719 --> 01:02:59.719 Second. 01:02:59.719 --> 01:03:03.519 by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 01:03:03.519 --> 01:03:04.960 Discussion on the ordinance. 01:03:04.960 --> 01:03:07.760 Suspension of the rules, can't do that. 01:03:07.760 --> 01:03:09.159 Oh, oh, if you'd like to. 01:03:09.159 --> 01:03:11.400 Yeah, that's what I like to do. 01:03:11.400 --> 01:03:15.280 Well, okay, is there a second to suspend the rules? 01:03:15.280 --> 01:03:16.659 So moved. 01:03:16.659 --> 01:03:19.219 We have a motion made by Alderman Sanders, 01:03:19.219 --> 01:03:21.659 seconded by Alderman Klemm, right? 01:03:22.760 --> 01:03:24.719 To suspend the rules, again, suspension of the rules 01:03:24.719 --> 01:03:27.159 is non-debatable and must pass by two-thirds majority. 01:03:27.159 --> 01:03:28.760 Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll 01:03:28.760 --> 01:03:41.559 the suspension, Stacy, no, Shadle, no, Sanders, yes, Sellers, aye, Klemm, aye, Johnson, aye, Simmons, 01:03:44.900 --> 01:03:53.460 and Parker, aye, and that motion passes six to two. So now before you is the final passage for 01:03:53.460 --> 01:03:58.579 Ordinance 20, 26, 21. Any further discussion on this ordinance? Alderman Stacey? 01:03:59.619 --> 01:04:09.539 So am I understanding that this is a position? Yes. And this has been budgeted for this year 01:04:10.260 --> 01:04:16.579 in the IT account? The IT technician has not. What we're doing is we're swapping a person for 01:04:16.579 --> 01:04:22.579 for Nuisance and I.T. And I've worked that out with Community Development Director. 01:04:22.579 --> 01:04:24.579 Alderman Sanders? 01:04:24.579 --> 01:04:30.579 What are the qualifications for anyone becoming an I.T. specialist? 01:04:30.579 --> 01:04:37.579 And whether or not they produce all of the credentials for such a position? 01:04:37.579 --> 01:04:45.579 I don't have the job description in front of me, but it's a lot of your basic entry level is what we're looking for, presumably. 01:04:45.579 --> 01:04:50.340 also some credentials or a mix of college education, 01:04:50.340 --> 01:04:52.420 work experience or credentials. 01:04:52.420 --> 01:04:56.260 Yeah, I just want to make sure that people 01:04:56.260 --> 01:05:00.019 that we're putting in computer, 01:05:00.019 --> 01:05:01.980 because that's a very sensitive area. 01:05:01.980 --> 01:05:02.820 Yes. 01:05:02.820 --> 01:05:03.639 Very sensitive. 01:05:03.639 --> 01:05:07.300 And I want to make sure that whoever is qualified 01:05:07.300 --> 01:05:11.860 carries the certification of an A plus, 01:05:11.860 --> 01:05:20.659 has an ATT-plus certification before we even began to vet that individual. 01:05:20.659 --> 01:05:26.940 We don't even want to take time out to vet him before we can produce those kinds of credentials. 01:05:26.940 --> 01:05:33.659 So we don't want to waste our time with someone that does not walk with those credentials, 01:05:33.659 --> 01:05:37.460 especially in our IT department areas. 01:05:37.460 --> 01:05:44.260 So I like to hear what that qualification is, whether or not they're meeting all the standards. 01:05:44.260 --> 01:05:47.699 I believe we did put in, like Network Plus. 01:05:47.699 --> 01:05:48.699 Kirk, would you like it? 01:05:48.699 --> 01:05:49.699 I've got a copy. 01:05:49.699 --> 01:05:50.699 Yeah, sure. 01:05:50.699 --> 01:05:53.860 I believe it was delivered to all the older persons. 01:05:53.860 --> 01:05:55.500 Yeah, I think everybody has a copy. 01:05:55.500 --> 01:05:59.699 Yeah, I have it, but it's not answering my question. 01:05:59.699 --> 01:06:06.699 Yeah, we put the, I'm sorry, A plus Network Plus Security Plus certification or equivalent. 01:06:06.699 --> 01:06:11.199 Okay, so yeah we want somebody with some credentials if possible. Okay, thank you. 01:06:11.199 --> 01:06:17.440 Alderman Stacey. I don't think you were done answering my question before you 01:06:17.440 --> 01:06:25.179 were cut off. Sure. Can you remind me? I had asked about it being budgeted and you 01:06:25.179 --> 01:06:32.840 were saying no, that you swapped. Yeah, the IT tech was not budgeted for this 01:06:32.840 --> 01:06:44.360 We're going to use the budget for that nuisance person on the IT technician. 01:06:44.360 --> 01:06:48.039 And we're not going to need this nuisance later in the year? 01:06:48.039 --> 01:06:51.880 You're not going to come back and be like, oh, well, we need that money back? 01:06:51.880 --> 01:06:55.920 No, I'm not coming back to you. 01:06:55.920 --> 01:07:01.039 The budget was already started, like budget process was already started before I started. 01:07:01.039 --> 01:07:05.119 I started in October, budget season was already well underway. 01:07:05.119 --> 01:07:12.639 I have two incredible team members who do the job of more than two people. 01:07:12.639 --> 01:07:16.920 And they do such a great job and they're so diligent and on top of things that I don't 01:07:16.920 --> 01:07:18.920 need another one. 01:07:18.920 --> 01:07:24.599 We've actually seen a lot of success using technology such as emailing, you know, specifically 01:07:24.599 --> 01:07:30.519 landlords because we have their emails available with rent registration. 01:07:30.519 --> 01:07:37.800 We're seeing a very huge increase in compliance by emailing the landlords instead of waiting 01:07:37.800 --> 01:07:42.420 for the mail to reach them of a situation in one of their properties. 01:07:42.420 --> 01:07:49.000 So with that, I'd like to continue looking into those types of changes and just incorporating 01:07:49.000 --> 01:07:57.300 technology and modernization of the department before I introduce another team member anytime 01:07:57.300 --> 01:07:58.300 in the future. 01:07:58.300 --> 01:08:04.840 Thank you for the advancement of those funds and for opening the door for technology. 01:08:04.840 --> 01:08:05.840 Alderman Sanders? 01:08:05.840 --> 01:08:07.300 Can I speak again? 01:08:07.300 --> 01:08:10.300 Well, technically you did twice, but if you can keep it short. 01:08:10.300 --> 01:08:15.300 Yeah, I just wanted to know, are we entering into the field of AI? 01:08:15.300 --> 01:08:18.300 Are we setting up? 01:08:18.300 --> 01:08:21.300 Well, but Alderman Sanders has nothing to do with this. 01:08:21.300 --> 01:08:22.300 I know, but my point is... 01:08:22.300 --> 01:08:25.300 So if you want to ask her afterwards, you are more than welcome. 01:08:25.300 --> 01:08:26.300 All right. 01:08:26.300 --> 01:08:50.300 That's debatable. Can I argue with you first, sister? No, you can answer I or no. I can 01:08:50.300 --> 01:09:16.260 Sellers, Clem, Johnson, Simmons, Parker, Sanders, and Simmons, our Technology Directors double 01:09:16.260 --> 01:09:29.460 I'm going to mark her absent on this one. It passes 7 to 0. 01:09:29.460 --> 01:09:34.460 Okay, item number 16 is the first reading of ordinance 2026-22. Please read this. 01:09:34.460 --> 01:09:42.460 Ordinance amending Title 10, Employment Provisions, Chapter 290, Compensation and Benefits, Section 290-01-D1, 01:09:42.460 --> 01:09:47.899 regarding classification plan to add a full-time Freedom of Information Act officer. 01:09:47.899 --> 01:10:00.479 We have had an influx of FOIA requests as of January of this year and right now my officers 01:10:00.479 --> 01:10:05.319 are the ones that are answering the FOIAs which is not in their duties and responsibilities 01:10:05.319 --> 01:10:06.359 to do. 01:10:06.359 --> 01:10:13.060 So therefore providing an administrative support for our FOIA requests because they have gone 01:10:13.060 --> 01:10:20.420 up as of year to date from January 1st to April 3rd, 173 requests. 01:10:20.420 --> 01:10:24.380 And therefore the integrity investigation in accordance to state law should protect the 01:10:24.380 --> 01:10:31.180 privacy of these FOIAs and I don't have the the clerk for that position. 01:10:31.180 --> 01:10:37.340 So adding this position will actually help in order for those requests and have my officers 01:10:37.340 --> 01:10:45.319 and my sergeants and my corporals to do their job as what they were sworn in to do. 01:10:45.319 --> 01:10:47.760 Zito. 01:10:47.760 --> 01:10:53.399 So before anyone makes a motion to move this forward, the draft of the ordinance that you 01:10:53.399 --> 01:10:59.000 have in your binders there, there was a blank because at the time that we submitted for 01:10:59.000 --> 01:11:03.319 the packets, we didn't know what the class grade was going to be for this position. 01:11:03.319 --> 01:11:06.239 We have since learned that that's going to be a class grade 12. 01:11:06.239 --> 01:11:09.680 So ultimately, if someone's going to make a motion to move this forward, I would ask 01:11:09.680 --> 01:11:15.140 that they make the motion to move it forward with the addition that this would be a class 01:11:15.140 --> 01:11:22.140 I second. 01:11:22.140 --> 01:11:27.140 Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Sellers. 01:11:27.140 --> 01:11:32.140 Discussion on the ordinance? 01:11:32.140 --> 01:11:34.579 Yeah. 01:11:34.579 --> 01:11:35.579 Alderman Park? 01:11:35.579 --> 01:11:36.579 Motion to suspend the rules. 01:11:36.579 --> 01:11:38.579 Oh, he gets the first one. 01:11:38.579 --> 01:11:39.579 Would you like to second it? 01:11:39.579 --> 01:11:44.579 No, I just wanted to go first, suspending anything before anything got suspended. 01:11:44.579 --> 01:11:45.579 Is there a second? 01:11:45.579 --> 01:11:54.380 We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers for suspension of the rules. 01:11:54.380 --> 01:11:58.859 Again, suspension of the rules is non-debatable and must pass by a two-thirds majority. Madam Clerk, 01:11:58.859 --> 01:12:06.699 please take the roll on the suspension only. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. 01:12:06.699 --> 01:12:36.699 Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? No. And Parker? Aye. That fails one, two, three, four, five, to three. We needed six for that. So you can call the mayor because half the council's voted in favor of it. So. Oh, thank you, attorney. Mayor, what say you? Aye. Well, then that passes them six to three. So now any further discussion on the ordinance that's before you? I've heard enough. 01:12:36.699 --> 01:12:50.699 I've heard enough. You don't have the floor. No, I know. I'd just like to say to remind any council member here of the decorum in regards to the rules of 220.10, section 24, enforcement of decorum, please. 01:12:50.699 --> 01:13:02.699 Who's talking? Chief Falstow of the police department. Why is she talking? That's what I want to know. Who gave you the floor? You don't have the floor, Alderman? She didn't have the floor, neither. 01:13:02.699 --> 01:13:08.479 So my point is... Would you like to be a little more clear with what you're 01:13:08.479 --> 01:13:14.300 saying Chief Rosso? Do I have the floor now? Sure. Okay, thank you ma'am. I'm just 01:13:14.300 --> 01:13:18.420 trying to remind everyone here in council the rules of council of 220.10 01:13:18.420 --> 01:13:25.579 enforcement of the decorum of section 24 in order for us to have a clean valid 01:13:25.579 --> 01:13:30.659 conversation as to what we're here for in order to understand each other's 01:13:30.659 --> 01:13:38.420 points and order and an order for all of us to have a good dialogue in conversation. It is just a 01:13:38.420 --> 01:13:44.739 reminder of those rules of conduct. Alderman Sanders, this is your warning. If you continue 01:13:44.739 --> 01:13:48.579 to be disruptive, you will be out of order. Please don't go to that. Okay. Thank you. 01:13:49.859 --> 01:13:56.979 But I do need to state my case. If it has something to do with this ordinance for the FOIA 01:13:56.979 --> 01:14:26.979 Officer? Yes, her comment that she made. No, that's not on the floor. That's not on the floor? No, it's not on the floor. What's on the floor before you is the full-time Boyer officer. So do you have something you'd like to add to the floor? No, she was talking about decorum, Mayor. She was talking about decorum. The police chief under our ordinances is the sergeant in arms and she is charged with keeping decorum here, ultimately enforcing it, so that's why she was just making a 01:14:26.979 --> 01:14:56.979 comment our city ordinances say that based on what our city ordinance why would she bring it up based on what though she has it's a reminder to be clarified on what she made her comments and that's it she doesn't okay she made her comments that's it all right so the topic that is on the floor right now is this ordinance you know so any further discussion on this ordinance yes alderman Sanders I don't think we should have a department 01:14:56.979 --> 01:15:06.979 that is hoarding all of the foyers and complaints that people are making throughout the community. 01:15:06.979 --> 01:15:18.979 I don't think it should come to a central location where you have a Pam Bundy taking over and deciding what gets admitted or said 01:15:18.979 --> 01:15:23.979 or submit it to the community to have clarity of knowledge 01:15:24.979 --> 01:15:27.899 of what four years are going forward 01:15:27.899 --> 01:15:31.180 and people are understanding what four years 01:15:31.180 --> 01:15:33.539 that in complaints that has been made, 01:15:33.539 --> 01:15:37.060 if it's held by an individual department area, 01:15:37.060 --> 01:15:42.060 they have discretion on what four years go forth 01:15:44.180 --> 01:15:47.899 through the community or acknowledged through the public. 01:15:47.899 --> 01:15:53.979 they have that discretion and I don't think we as council should be allowing the department 01:15:54.619 --> 01:16:01.659 to receive all four years and administer and disperse them out to the general public at 01:16:01.659 --> 01:16:08.779 their discretion because the council is not being acknowledged of all of the four years that I will 01:16:08.779 --> 01:16:15.979 that will come in not even in some cases even in our own clerk office we are not receiving all of 01:16:15.979 --> 01:16:23.380 of the Four Year complaints about it, but if we allow the police department to handle 01:16:23.380 --> 01:16:31.779 our four years at their discretion, we might as well be setting up another situation with 01:16:31.779 --> 01:16:35.180 the attorney general's office that is going on. 01:16:35.180 --> 01:16:36.859 You're really confusing this topic. 01:16:36.859 --> 01:16:37.859 No, I'm not. 01:16:37.859 --> 01:16:39.779 I'm trying to get my point in. 01:16:39.779 --> 01:16:41.899 But it's not accurate, Alderman Sanders. 01:16:41.899 --> 01:16:44.020 Four years are not to be... 01:16:44.020 --> 01:16:49.300 Clerk, could you please shed some light on FOIA? So our next agenda item, I'm also 01:16:49.300 --> 01:16:55.779 asking for a FOIA clerk. Historically PD has processed those that relate to PD. 01:16:55.779 --> 01:17:03.380 FIRE has their own FOIA officer, sometimes they've had two. The library 01:17:03.380 --> 01:17:10.779 has their own. I will retain my own. This is, and do you want to take over from 01:17:10.779 --> 01:17:12.140 here for clarifying. 01:17:12.140 --> 01:17:20.119 This is removing a lieutenant from processing FOIAs and having more of a records clerk position 01:17:20.119 --> 01:17:21.239 process FOIAs. 01:17:21.239 --> 01:17:23.159 Please correct me if that's not correct. 01:17:23.159 --> 01:17:24.159 You are correct. 01:17:24.159 --> 01:17:25.159 Okay. 01:17:25.159 --> 01:17:26.159 Okay. 01:17:26.159 --> 01:17:33.350 So, Aldo and Stacy, did you have something? 01:17:33.350 --> 01:17:34.350 Yes. 01:17:34.350 --> 01:17:38.909 Where would the funding come from for such a position? 01:17:38.909 --> 01:17:41.109 Chief? 01:17:41.109 --> 01:17:44.789 The funding position will come from the police department budget within the general fund. 01:17:44.789 --> 01:17:52.340 If there's no further discussion. 01:17:52.340 --> 01:17:53.340 General fund. 01:17:53.340 --> 01:17:57.100 Madam Clerk, please take the roll on ordinance 2026-22. 01:17:57.100 --> 01:17:58.100 Stacy. 01:17:58.100 --> 01:18:02.420 I thought this was the first reading. 01:18:02.420 --> 01:18:04.659 We had a suspension of the rules. 01:18:04.659 --> 01:18:05.659 No. 01:18:05.659 --> 01:18:06.659 Shadle. 01:18:06.659 --> 01:18:07.659 Aye. 01:18:07.659 --> 01:18:08.659 Sanders. 01:18:08.659 --> 01:18:09.659 No. 01:18:09.659 --> 01:18:10.659 Sellers. 01:18:10.659 --> 01:18:11.659 Aye. 01:18:11.659 --> 01:18:12.659 Klemm. 01:18:12.659 --> 01:18:13.659 Aye. 01:18:13.659 --> 01:18:14.659 Johnson. 01:18:14.659 --> 01:18:15.659 Aye. 01:18:15.659 --> 01:18:16.659 Simmons. 01:18:16.659 --> 01:18:26.420 and Parker. Aye. The ordinance passes 5 to 3. And item number 17 is the first reading of 01:18:26.420 --> 01:18:31.180 ordinance 202623. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending title 10 01:18:31.180 --> 01:18:35.739 employment provisions chapter 290 compensation and benefits section 290 01:18:35.739 --> 01:18:41.520 0.01 D 3 regarding classification plan to add part-time deputy clerk slash 01:18:41.520 --> 01:18:47.260 freedom of information act or FOIA clerk. Thank you. Manager Boyer. Thank you your 01:18:47.260 --> 01:18:52.979 Connor, and as Dovie mentioned, this is a part-time FOIA clerk to deal with the increasing 01:18:52.979 --> 01:18:55.579 volume of FOIAs coming into her office. 01:18:55.579 --> 01:19:02.659 I'm just going to kind of go through the memo here fairly thoroughly here. 01:19:02.659 --> 01:19:08.960 So since 2017, the clerk's office has operated with one full-time elected city clerk and 01:19:08.960 --> 01:19:11.539 one full-time appointed deputy city clerk. 01:19:11.539 --> 01:19:15.840 Since 2017 and the formation of the city manager form of government, the clerk's office has 01:19:15.840 --> 01:19:21.399 has taken on additional duties, and the number of existing duties has increased in volume. 01:19:21.399 --> 01:19:27.940 Additionally, duties include tracking contracts, agreements with monthly review with city manager. 01:19:27.940 --> 01:19:33.119 From the time of an in-house attorney stopped tracking these agreements back in 2015, and 01:19:33.119 --> 01:19:38.859 until 2019, this was not done until Dovie began maintaining the contract spreadsheet. 01:19:38.859 --> 01:19:42.739 It was not currently being, it was not being reviewed during that duration. 01:19:42.739 --> 01:19:45.979 In 2019, there were 40 contracts that the... 01:19:45.979 --> 01:20:09.060 and 01:20:09.060 --> 01:20:14.020 Two additional duties which did not exist in the clerk's office in 2017 are maintenance 01:20:14.020 --> 01:20:18.819 and filing of hanger leases and attendance and typing of minutes at the Finance Committee 01:20:18.819 --> 01:20:24.899 of the Whole meetings. An example of an increase in volume of work since 2017 is the diligence 01:20:24.899 --> 01:20:31.100 expended by the deputy clerk in obtaining signatures on contracts approved by resolution. 01:20:31.100 --> 01:20:36.500 A contract cannot be proven valid if unsigned, therefore the deputy clerk works extensively 01:20:36.500 --> 01:20:41.060 with repeated reminders to obtain signatures prior to filing resolutions. 01:20:41.060 --> 01:20:45.539 Historically, not all contracts were signed when filed with a resolution. 01:20:45.539 --> 01:20:52.100 The increase in resolutions has in turn increased the time required in processing agreements, 01:20:52.100 --> 01:20:54.260 including obtaining signatures. 01:20:54.260 --> 01:21:02.979 The number of resolutions has increased from 60 in 2019 to 159 in 2025, which is a 165% 01:21:02.979 --> 01:21:03.979 increase. 01:21:03.979 --> 01:21:04.979 Huffines. 01:21:04.979 --> 01:21:09.420 Some tasks have been put on hold, such as keeping certificates of insurance up to date. 01:21:09.420 --> 01:21:14.420 Some tasks are delayed by years, such as typing closed session minutes, which is five years 01:21:14.420 --> 01:21:15.899 behind. 01:21:15.899 --> 01:21:20.180 And some tasks are beginning to become delayed, such as minutes not being available at the 01:21:20.180 --> 01:21:25.659 next council committee of the whole meeting, miscellaneous licenses issued late, and FOIA 01:21:25.659 --> 01:21:31.739 directory posted to a website only annually instead of the scheduled quarterly updates. 01:21:31.739 --> 01:21:37.100 the Planning, the fiscal year 2026 budget. A third part-time deputy clerk was 01:21:37.100 --> 01:21:41.500 proposed but did not make it to the final budget. Citywide, the number of 01:21:41.500 --> 01:21:48.819 employees has increased from 172 in 2017 to 188 in 2025. We've added an 01:21:48.819 --> 01:21:52.659 information technology department, additional staff and departments 01:21:52.659 --> 01:21:57.659 generate more resolutions, more contracts, more vehicles, more equipment, gear, more 01:21:57.659 --> 01:22:03.199 for filing, which citywide staff numbers have grown by 16 and a half people in the past 01:22:03.199 --> 01:22:10.420 nine years. The clerk's office has held steady at two people. Council approved the additional 01:22:10.420 --> 01:22:15.819 of software for processing licenses in 26, and staff are currently working with Iwerks 01:22:15.819 --> 01:22:20.460 representatives to get the software functional. Liquor licenses will be the first type of 01:22:20.460 --> 01:22:26.340 license processed online within the next month, with the addition of other miscellaneous licenses 01:22:26.340 --> 01:22:32.659 in March of 2027. Online processing will hopefully be more expedient than paper processing 01:22:32.659 --> 01:22:37.699 and bring some relief to the overall clerk's workload once applicants are familiar with the 01:22:37.699 --> 01:22:43.619 new procedure. In addition to the above workload, Freedom of Information Acts have recently and 01:22:43.619 --> 01:22:50.579 rapidly increased across all departments as well as across the state. In the clerk's office alone, 01:22:50.579 --> 01:22:58.340 A total of 213 FOIA requests were processed in 2025, which is a 30% increase over 2024, 01:22:58.340 --> 01:23:06.020 a 122% increase over 2021, and there have been a couple of state statute changes in the FOIA laws 01:23:06.020 --> 01:23:10.500 which benefit municipalities, but there is no significant relief in sight for the future. 01:23:11.140 --> 01:23:17.060 The addition of a part-time deputy FOIA clerk would greatly benefit the current 01:23:17.060 --> 01:23:47.060 Foyer, John Foyer, John Foyer 01:23:47.060 --> 01:23:53.659 Graham, Deputy Clerk, Foyer Clark position for the remainder of 2026 will come from the 01:23:53.659 --> 01:24:01.060 fiscal year 2025 fund reserve with the position incorporated into the 2027 budget. Staff recommends 01:24:01.060 --> 01:24:06.659 approval of this position and has at requested suspension of the rules on this. 01:24:06.659 --> 01:24:09.460 Thank you. Is there a motion to move this ordinance forward? 01:24:09.460 --> 01:24:10.460 Second. 01:24:10.460 --> 01:24:16.579 A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the ordinance? 01:24:16.579 --> 01:24:23.539 Sellers? To me I look at it as a good thing because it's part-time and we are 01:24:23.539 --> 01:24:29.340 growing as a community and we have more things going on and they need the help so 01:24:29.340 --> 01:24:37.380 I am in support of it and I think it's a good thing to help out. I'd just like to 01:24:37.380 --> 01:24:42.300 make a comment if anybody doesn't think of this we need this position take a 01:24:42.300 --> 01:24:43.300 McEvoy. 01:24:43.300 --> 01:24:44.300 Let's take a look at Dixon. 01:24:44.300 --> 01:24:45.300 Write an example. 01:24:45.300 --> 01:24:50.500 The number of contracts have increased, how much, which you're in charge of to close 01:24:50.500 --> 01:24:51.739 and everything else. 01:24:51.739 --> 01:24:53.859 It's been a needed thing for a while. 01:24:53.859 --> 01:24:55.659 I'm for it. 01:24:55.659 --> 01:24:57.699 Alderman Johnson? 01:24:57.699 --> 01:25:03.899 I know the city clerk has a multitude of duties and I was just kind of wondering what the 01:25:03.899 --> 01:25:04.899 FOIA is. 01:25:04.899 --> 01:25:11.119 I know that different ones take different amounts of time to complete. 01:25:11.119 --> 01:25:41.119 How much time do you think it would take for one that's not as complicated and how much time would it take for one that is complicated? Just to give a ballpark figure about how many hours you put into doing like, say, one foyer for some pretty complicated ones where I have to dig pretty deep and do a pretty detailed breakdown. I've already spent eight hours. I've clocked, you know, I've kept track and spent eight hours on one complicated foyer. I would say a typical one that goes to 01:25:41.119 --> 01:25:58.960 Um, community development. I would say, um, probably, probably our most common is code violations to a single property is probably the most common. And probably between my time and actually Jabria processes most of those. 01:25:58.960 --> 01:26:05.279 Miller. But by the time she shares it and Gertrude's department processes it may be 01:26:05.279 --> 01:26:11.920 a total of four hours across the two departments. If redactions are needed, that takes a little 01:26:11.920 --> 01:26:20.520 bit longer. We log them. We track them. That in itself takes time. Did you want to add 01:26:20.520 --> 01:26:21.520 to that? 01:26:21.520 --> 01:26:27.279 Yeah. I think the ones that we get are usually if they're related to fines or adjudicated 01:26:27.279 --> 01:26:32.680 We have to go and search for all the liens and we do our due diligence to make sure that 01:26:32.680 --> 01:26:34.039 we find them all. 01:26:34.039 --> 01:26:40.600 Sometimes it is a, you know, anything that was prior to a new systems or a new technology, 01:26:40.600 --> 01:26:43.239 we have to go back and look a little bit further. 01:26:43.239 --> 01:26:49.079 So yeah, I think about four sometimes, you know, if we have to look further back, maybe 01:26:49.079 --> 01:26:53.239 add a couple extra hours to look through the paper copies and our storage and go upstairs 01:26:53.239 --> 01:26:54.239 and find them. 01:26:54.239 --> 01:26:55.239 So yeah. 01:26:55.239 --> 01:26:56.239 Thank you. 01:26:56.239 --> 01:26:57.720 Motion to suspend the rules. 01:26:57.720 --> 01:26:58.560 Second. 01:26:59.960 --> 01:27:00.800 Is that Shadle? 01:27:01.920 --> 01:27:04.279 We have a motion made by Alderman Parker 01:27:04.279 --> 01:27:05.399 for suspension of the rules, 01:27:05.399 --> 01:27:08.439 seconded by Alderman Shadle. 01:27:08.439 --> 01:27:10.439 Again, suspension of the rules is non-debatable. 01:27:10.439 --> 01:27:12.800 Madam Clerk, please take the role in the suspension only. 01:27:12.800 --> 01:27:13.640 Stacy? 01:27:14.560 --> 01:27:15.600 No. 01:27:15.600 --> 01:27:16.439 Shadle? 01:27:16.439 --> 01:27:17.760 Aye. 01:27:17.760 --> 01:27:19.720 We'll wait a second for Alderperson Sanders. 01:27:19.720 --> 01:27:20.560 Sellers? 01:27:20.560 --> 01:27:21.479 Aye. 01:27:21.479 --> 01:27:22.319 Klemm? 01:27:22.319 --> 01:27:23.159 Aye. 01:27:23.159 --> 01:27:23.979 Johnson? 01:27:23.979 --> 01:27:24.819 Aye. 01:27:24.819 --> 01:27:25.659 Simmons? 01:27:25.659 --> 01:27:32.659 No. Parker? Aye. One, two, three, four, five. We're currently five to two. 01:27:32.659 --> 01:27:38.659 Council has voted in favor of electing Mayor Beard to cast the vote. 01:27:38.659 --> 01:27:46.659 Okay, Mayor, what say you? Aye. We have our six votes to two. The suspension passes. 01:27:46.659 --> 01:27:52.659 So then before you, Council, is the final passage for this ordinance. Any further discussion? 01:27:52.659 --> 01:27:56.979 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 01:27:56.979 --> 01:27:57.979 Stacy 01:27:57.979 --> 01:27:58.979 No 01:27:58.979 --> 01:27:59.979 Shadle 01:27:59.979 --> 01:28:00.979 Aye 01:28:00.979 --> 01:28:01.979 Sanders 01:28:01.979 --> 01:28:02.979 Nope. 01:28:02.979 --> 01:28:03.979 I'm so sorry. 01:28:03.979 --> 01:28:04.979 He's absent at the moment. 01:28:04.979 --> 01:28:05.979 Sellers 01:28:05.979 --> 01:28:06.979 Aye 01:28:06.979 --> 01:28:07.979 Klemm 01:28:07.979 --> 01:28:08.979 Aye 01:28:08.979 --> 01:28:09.979 Johnson 01:28:09.979 --> 01:28:10.979 Aye 01:28:10.979 --> 01:28:11.979 Simmons 01:28:11.979 --> 01:28:12.979 No 01:28:12.979 --> 01:28:13.979 And Parker 01:28:13.979 --> 01:28:14.979 Aye 01:28:14.979 --> 01:28:15.979 One, two, three, four, five. 01:28:15.979 --> 01:28:16.979 In favor, five to two. 01:28:16.979 --> 01:28:17.979 That is enough for to pass the ordinance. 01:28:17.979 --> 01:28:18.979 Thank you. 01:28:18.979 --> 01:28:19.979 And thank you very much. 01:28:19.979 --> 01:28:24.460 Number 18 is the first reading of Ordinance 20-26-24. Could you please read this? 01:28:24.460 --> 01:28:29.100 Ordinance annexing Well Number 12 property to the City of Freeport, Stevenson County. 01:28:29.100 --> 01:28:32.940 Thank you. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. As everyone knows, 01:28:32.940 --> 01:28:38.059 we've been working very diligently on gaining new source water and treatment capacity. 01:28:38.779 --> 01:28:44.940 The location for Well 12 was chosen from a study that was done on the aquifer quality. 01:28:44.940 --> 01:28:52.039 Jodi. This location at Forest Road and the South Park entrance was purchased about a 01:28:52.039 --> 01:28:58.479 year ago, and we need to annex this into the city at this point. So, staff requests moving 01:28:58.479 --> 01:29:02.420 forward with the annexation of, well, I'm not going to read the parcel number because 01:29:02.420 --> 01:29:08.340 it's fairly lengthy, but if you want to read it, it's in your memo. Kindly, staff requests 01:29:08.340 --> 01:29:10.140 annexing this into the city. 01:29:10.140 --> 01:29:11.699 Motion to approve. 01:29:11.699 --> 01:29:12.699 Second. 01:29:12.699 --> 01:29:16.699 Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle. 01:29:16.699 --> 01:29:20.239 Discussion on the ordinance. 01:29:20.239 --> 01:29:21.479 Alderman Shadle. 01:29:21.479 --> 01:29:23.199 Is there any need? 01:29:23.199 --> 01:29:25.960 There's no note on here for a request of suspension. 01:29:25.960 --> 01:29:28.199 Is there any need? 01:29:28.199 --> 01:29:29.479 OK. 01:29:29.479 --> 01:29:32.510 Thank you. 01:29:32.510 --> 01:29:34.109 There's a lot of dirt moving there. 01:29:34.109 --> 01:29:35.350 I'm OK with the suspension. 01:29:35.350 --> 01:29:36.430 No, we can't. 01:29:36.430 --> 01:29:37.590 We cannot suspend. 01:29:37.590 --> 01:29:39.550 Oh, we can't. 01:29:39.550 --> 01:29:41.510 We have to follow our ordinances, 01:29:41.510 --> 01:29:44.109 so we can't suspend because we have to have a public. 01:29:44.109 --> 01:29:46.000 We can't suspend because we have to have a public hearing on Planning Commission. 01:29:46.000 --> 01:29:50.000 I stand corrected. 01:29:50.000 --> 01:29:59.000 There's no further discussion. We'll move on to item number 19, which is the first reading of Ordinance 2026-25. Could you please read this? 01:29:59.000 --> 01:30:08.000 Ordinance approving the city to enter into a second addendum to lease agreement with Derrick Squires for airplane hangar G at Albertus Airport. 01:30:08.000 --> 01:30:09.000 Thank you, Manager Boyer. 01:30:09.000 --> 01:30:15.560 Thank you, Your Honor. Derek Squires operates a maintenance facility in the 01:30:15.560 --> 01:30:21.800 eternal hangar G. He has recently approached the city about allowing us to 01:30:21.800 --> 01:30:26.760 use the entire facility. Currently, his lease states that he can only use half of 01:30:26.760 --> 01:30:33.239 it. Staff agrees and request City's Council on providing the other half of 01:30:33.239 --> 01:30:37.239 Hanger at an increased rent of $2,000 per month. 01:30:37.239 --> 01:30:38.239 Motion approved. 01:30:38.239 --> 01:30:39.239 Second. 01:30:39.239 --> 01:30:46.439 We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers to move Ordinance 2026-25 01:30:46.439 --> 01:30:49.079 onto the next scheduled meeting. 01:30:49.079 --> 01:30:50.079 Discussion on the ordinance? 01:30:50.079 --> 01:30:51.079 Alderman Stacey? 01:30:51.079 --> 01:31:04.539 If I'm not mistaken, I thought there was a square footage amount determined. 01:31:04.539 --> 01:31:05.340 and 01:31:05.340 --> 01:31:07.180 on the cost of a hanger. 01:31:07.939 --> 01:31:13.079 This hanger is g is 80 by 100 01:31:14.579 --> 01:31:16.579 and a hanger of this size 01:31:16.579 --> 01:31:18.659 at least 01:31:18.659 --> 01:31:21.260 is worth 4,000 per month. 01:31:22.699 --> 01:31:23.899 Where are you getting those figures from? 01:31:23.899 --> 01:31:25.859 And so why is it 01:31:26.979 --> 01:31:30.899 only being built for 2000? 01:31:32.319 --> 01:31:33.579 Why 01:31:33.579 --> 01:31:47.579 Is it that the city is paying for gas and electric when the most electric we use is letting up the garage door to take out the equipment and to put it back in? 01:31:47.579 --> 01:31:58.579 Why are the taxpayers paying their utilities? They're being squires. 01:31:58.579 --> 01:32:10.579 Where after April 1st do the equipment? Where will it be put? Why not remain in the hanger as it was in the past? 01:32:10.579 --> 01:32:21.210 I don't have an answer for every single one of those because I didn't write them all down. 01:32:21.210 --> 01:32:38.010 However, I will say that in June of 2024, we approved this hanger lease with Mr. Squires for $1,000 and he is faithfully used and abided by the terms of the lease. 01:32:38.010 --> 01:32:45.810 His business is getting larger and we'd like the opportunity to extend that and double his square footage for $2,000. 01:32:45.810 --> 01:33:00.810 So, staff, yes, it is true that the city does pay for utilities. However, that is no different than it's been since when we had the other, you know, operation, second-generation aviation was operating out of this hangar. 01:33:00.810 --> 01:33:14.810 In terms of the equipment, I think Mr. Squires has also been so generous to allow us to keep the equipment out there in that hangar. So, I would recommend council move forward with this lease. 01:33:14.810 --> 01:33:44.810 Alderman Parker. Motion to suspend the rules. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman. What's going on? If you're going to be disruptive, that'll be your warning. Let's be, let's be professional. Yeah, let's be professional. That's your warning. If it happens again, you're going to be escorted. So please don't do it again. We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle for 01:33:44.810 --> 01:33:48.770 Manager of the rules Madam clerk please take the role on the suspension only 01:33:48.770 --> 01:34:06.079 Stacey no Shadle hi Sanders no Sellers aye Klemm Johnson aye Simmons alder person 01:34:06.079 --> 01:34:18.899 Simmons can you hear me we can go back to her if we need to Parker I one two 01:34:18.899 --> 01:34:25.899 2, 3, 4, it's 5 to 2. Mayor? Okay. 01:34:25.899 --> 01:34:26.899 Aye. 01:34:26.899 --> 01:34:28.420 Mayor, what is your vote? 01:34:28.420 --> 01:34:29.420 Aye. 01:34:29.420 --> 01:34:30.420 Aye. 01:34:30.420 --> 01:34:33.779 That is now 6 to 2 and the suspension passes. 01:34:33.779 --> 01:34:40.979 So now before you is for the passage for this ordinance discussion on this hanger ordinance. 01:34:40.979 --> 01:34:42.539 Alderman Stacey? 01:34:42.539 --> 01:34:46.420 Yes, my questions were not even answered. 01:34:46.420 --> 01:34:51.659 I think he told you that he answered them to the best of his ability because he didn't write them all down. 01:34:51.659 --> 01:35:00.750 You had an entire page. You're more than welcome to pick up the phone and ask these questions. 01:35:00.750 --> 01:35:13.869 Why, if our equipment is not staying in that hanger, are we paying for the gas and the electric? Why? 01:35:13.869 --> 01:35:14.750 Manager Boyer? 01:35:14.750 --> 01:35:19.670 I believe Mr. Squires has offered us the opportunity to leave our equipment in the hanger. 01:35:19.670 --> 01:35:24.869 But you just said he needed more room and that it would be put out. 01:35:24.869 --> 01:35:28.229 Yes, our equipment does not take the entire half of the hanger. 01:35:28.229 --> 01:35:30.789 Our equipment only takes a small amount of the hanger. 01:35:30.789 --> 01:35:36.149 Okay, so 50-50 then. Why are we paying for all the electric and all the gas? 01:35:37.989 --> 01:35:39.909 This is taxpayer's dollars. 01:35:39.909 --> 01:35:44.789 Okay, we have set this up. We're working with our utility partners to get that down, 01:35:44.789 --> 01:35:49.270 just like we did at the library. However, essentially we just need to make sure that 01:35:49.270 --> 01:36:00.220 Miller, and I don't think it's fair, Mayor Miller, for my questions to be looked over 01:36:00.220 --> 01:36:07.020 because I didn't take time to call City Manager Boyer and get an answer before this meeting. 01:36:07.020 --> 01:36:08.460 He didn't overlook you. 01:36:08.460 --> 01:36:12.460 Alderman Parker put his hand up and I called on him like I would have anyone else. 01:36:12.460 --> 01:36:16.680 And he answered what he wanted to answer and what he didn't want to answer. 01:36:16.680 --> 01:36:17.680 He didn't. 01:36:17.680 --> 01:36:18.680 So yes, yes. 01:36:18.680 --> 01:36:27.720 Yes, I'm a little upset about that. I'm a little upset being put off, like my questions don't matter. They do matter, just like the next person. 01:36:27.720 --> 01:36:36.220 They do. Any other discussion on the ordinance? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 01:36:36.220 --> 01:36:37.220 Stacy? 01:36:37.220 --> 01:36:38.220 No. 01:36:38.220 --> 01:36:39.220 Shadle? 01:36:39.220 --> 01:36:40.220 Aye. 01:36:40.220 --> 01:36:41.220 Sanders? 01:36:41.220 --> 01:36:42.220 No. 01:36:42.220 --> 01:36:43.220 Sellers? 01:36:43.220 --> 01:36:44.220 Aye. 01:36:44.220 --> 01:36:45.220 Klemm? 01:36:45.220 --> 01:36:46.220 Aye. 01:36:46.220 --> 01:36:47.220 Johnson? 01:36:47.220 --> 01:36:48.220 Aye. 01:36:48.220 --> 01:36:49.220 Simmons? 01:36:49.220 --> 01:36:50.220 No. 01:36:50.220 --> 01:36:59.420 The ordinance passes 5 to 3 and item number 20 is the adoption of resolution 20 26 40 01:36:59.420 --> 01:37:05.600 Could you please read this resolution approving an intergovernmental agreement with Freeport Park District for reimbursement of 01:37:06.699 --> 01:37:09.600 $140,000 in paving costs for Gladewood Drive 01:37:11.399 --> 01:37:16.260 Thank you honor as we were working the construction plans for Gladewood 01:37:16.600 --> 01:37:21.279 this year and we were approached by the Park District that they would like while we have our equipment and 01:37:21.760 --> 01:37:27.479 and our paving machine out there, they'd like us to look at repaving the section from Gladewood 01:37:27.479 --> 01:37:36.079 to Woodside Drive. So our estimates came up at about $140,000 and the park district appears 01:37:36.079 --> 01:37:41.399 amenable to this at this time. So staff recommends moving forward with the intergovernmental agreement 01:37:41.399 --> 01:37:47.479 with the park district for the amount of $140,000 to repave from Gladewood to Woodside Drive 01:37:47.479 --> 01:37:48.479 in the park. 01:37:48.479 --> 01:37:50.479 Is there a motion to adopt? 01:37:50.479 --> 01:37:52.479 So moved. 01:37:52.479 --> 01:37:57.479 Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Klemm. Discussion on the resolution? 01:37:57.479 --> 01:37:58.479 Yeah. 01:37:58.479 --> 01:38:00.479 Alderman Sanders? 01:38:00.479 --> 01:38:10.479 Question. We're talking about a reimbursement of what exactly? 01:38:10.479 --> 01:38:22.199 That would be site prep, material removal, base repair, installation of base material and paving. 01:38:22.199 --> 01:38:26.199 Who's requesting for this reimbursement? Is it the city? 01:38:26.199 --> 01:38:31.199 Yes. There's a map included with your packet if you want. 01:38:31.199 --> 01:38:38.199 No, I just wanted to hear you talk right now because I'm just wondering, 01:38:38.199 --> 01:38:48.199 City Boyer, when you talk in reference to staff, who are these people that you're referring to? 01:38:48.199 --> 01:38:50.199 I'm requesting it. 01:38:50.199 --> 01:38:58.199 No, who is the staff? You always make a reference to staff. Who is staff? 01:38:58.199 --> 01:39:04.199 In the context of the recommendation, it's me as city staff in combination with our... 01:39:04.199 --> 01:39:19.199 So why can't you just say City Boyer as opposed to staff? Because when you say staff, you sound like you're talking about a collective of people wanting to move on these things. 01:39:19.199 --> 01:39:25.199 It's not the staff. I like to know who staff is. I like to know who these people are. 01:39:25.199 --> 01:39:28.640 F. is not counsel, then who is staff? 01:39:28.640 --> 01:39:30.960 And if you're running by certain titles, 01:39:30.960 --> 01:39:34.199 if you have two titles where you're the city manager 01:39:34.199 --> 01:39:36.880 and staff, I'd like to know that. 01:39:36.880 --> 01:39:38.559 That's what I'm getting at. 01:39:38.559 --> 01:39:42.199 You're using that phrase, staff constantly all. 01:39:42.199 --> 01:39:47.510 Staff constantly all the time to push it to push an agenda. I am your staff, okay? 01:39:47.510 --> 01:39:54.149 Okay. Staff is me and all of our folks that are working for the city that worked on this project making a unanimous 01:39:54.630 --> 01:39:56.630 recommendation that we move forward with this. 01:39:57.550 --> 01:39:59.550 Attorney, did you have something else? 01:39:59.989 --> 01:40:02.529 Nope, that's exactly what I was going to say that staff, 01:40:02.670 --> 01:40:08.270 city staff is basically comprised of the city manager and then every department head and employee 01:40:08.270 --> 01:40:14.829 that works for the city, that is city staff. I understand that much, but my point is, and 01:40:14.829 --> 01:40:21.869 I don't like your description of that, so you make your comments, I make mine, because 01:40:21.869 --> 01:40:27.430 staff means that a collective of people came together, especially when you make it plural. 01:40:27.430 --> 01:40:33.470 When you make the term staff plural, it's not just one individual, it's a collective 01:40:33.470 --> 01:40:37.789 of people. And so that's all I wanted to get an understanding on. I wanted to make sure 01:40:37.789 --> 01:41:07.789 We're sitting here saying, well, staff is making the decisions on whether or not we move forward or not. That's all I'm trying to get clarity on. And we just can't, we just don't rely on staff. If council has not gotten, has not even gotten together and talk about what council decides to do, we're sitting here saying, well, staff is making the decisions on whether or not we move forward or not. 01:41:07.789 --> 01:41:14.189 to move forward. That's all I'm just saying. I'm just putting that out there. Council has not decided 01:41:14.189 --> 01:41:20.909 whether we should move forward, but, you know, that's me. Alderman Sanders, I just want to mention 01:41:20.909 --> 01:41:26.029 that we had a meeting scheduled for March 26th where we could have discussed all this. Yeah, well, 01:41:26.029 --> 01:41:36.989 you know, that's probably true. Yes, I want to know if $140,000 is going to complete 01:41:36.989 --> 01:41:59.640 I'll answer that. The answer is yes. Guess what? 140,000 will cover the total cost of 01:41:59.640 --> 01:42:08.960 this project as proposed. Any other discussion on the resolution? Madam Clerk, please take 01:42:08.960 --> 01:42:42.149 Stacey, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Johnson, Simmons, Parker, and the resolution 01:42:42.149 --> 01:42:48.229 is adopted, 8 to 0. Madam Clerk, can you come up here just for a second? 01:42:48.229 --> 01:43:10.020 Do you need my notes or anything? 5 to 3. Yes, that is the lease. Yes, that is the lease. 01:43:10.020 --> 01:43:24.539 It's not 50% is it when we do leases. Right. Okay. Okay. You just want me. Well, we just 01:43:24.539 --> 01:43:35.060 I missed it. So, Mayor, if we could go back to agenda item number 19, which is the least 01:43:35.060 --> 01:43:36.060 that we just talked about. 01:43:36.060 --> 01:43:40.539 Ordinance 202625. Yes, Madam Clerk. 01:43:40.539 --> 01:43:45.699 So that one, it was my mistake. There was a vote taken. It was five to three. There, 01:43:45.699 --> 01:43:50.659 I should have asked, that triggers the mayor calling just like on the other ones there 01:43:50.659 --> 01:43:54.039 there anytime half the council votes in favor of something then the mayor is allowed to 01:43:54.039 --> 01:43:59.460 vote on on it there in this particular case because a supermajority vote of three forces 01:43:59.460 --> 01:44:07.229 needed to approve leases this would trigger the mayor needing to cast a vote so back to 01:44:07.229 --> 01:44:14.750 number 19 hanger lease mayor what is your vote aye so we have a total of six to three 01:44:14.750 --> 01:44:20.449 which fulfills the supermajority thank you attorney item number 21 is adoption of resolution 01:44:20.449 --> 01:44:25.649 Resolution 2026-41. Could you please read this? Resolution approving an agreement with 01:44:25.649 --> 01:44:29.890 Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services related to the 2026 01:44:29.890 --> 01:44:34.369 Streets project. Thank you. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor, and I just wanted to 01:44:34.369 --> 01:44:38.770 mention that with seven and a half or seven seven point two miles of 01:44:38.770 --> 01:44:43.170 reconstructs this season, a good part of that is going to require water main 01:44:43.170 --> 01:44:48.210 replacements. So Fehr Graham has submitted a proposal to that effect. 01:44:48.210 --> 01:44:53.930 Fehr Graham Design permitted and bid the water main replacements along with the street reconstruction 01:44:53.930 --> 01:44:59.010 for Demeter, Benton, Concord, and North Stewart. These four residential areas have experienced 01:44:59.010 --> 01:45:03.489 numerous water main breaks in recent years, necessitating full replacement of the aged 01:45:03.489 --> 01:45:09.250 spun cast water main, similar to our situation this morning. Streets will be reconstructed 01:45:09.250 --> 01:45:17.930 with the roadway paving. So this is for design engineering of water main replacement. This 01:45:17.930 --> 01:45:22.050 This agreement is for professional engineering services including construction engineering 01:45:22.050 --> 01:45:29.710 staking and full project management in the amount of $349,885 and that also would include 01:45:29.710 --> 01:45:35.789 the QAQC material testing services that are a third party as time and material and as 01:45:35.789 --> 01:45:43.329 needed only and construction engineering was part of this in the 2025, I'm sorry, the 01:45:43.329 --> 01:45:50.050 So, staff recommends moving forward with the agreement with Fehr Graham for Watermain Street 01:45:50.050 --> 01:45:52.529 Reconstruction Engineering Services. 01:45:52.529 --> 01:45:53.529 So move. 01:45:53.529 --> 01:45:54.529 Second. 01:45:54.529 --> 01:45:59.890 We have a motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Klemm for the adoption 01:45:59.890 --> 01:46:02.890 of Resolution 2026-41. 01:46:02.890 --> 01:46:09.829 I'm good, sorry. 01:46:09.829 --> 01:46:12.710 So discussion on the resolution, Alderman Sanders? 01:46:12.710 --> 01:46:25.869 Yeah, Manager Boyer, I'm in favor to what the recommendation is on these waterline replacements. 01:46:25.869 --> 01:46:37.829 Are we codified with the proper scheduling of the material that we're intending to replace 01:46:37.829 --> 01:46:40.590 it with? 01:46:40.590 --> 01:46:45.510 I think I understand what you mean. Yes, I mean, we're using the appropriate material 01:46:45.510 --> 01:46:46.510 for the construction. 01:46:46.510 --> 01:46:51.329 Okay. That's all I wanted to know. Because I don't want us to experience those water 01:46:51.329 --> 01:46:54.069 breaks like they did before. 01:46:54.069 --> 01:46:59.680 Any other discussion on the resolution? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 01:46:59.680 --> 01:47:02.079 Could I have the first and second again, please? Sorry. 01:47:02.079 --> 01:47:04.439 That would have been Sellers and Klemm. 01:47:04.439 --> 01:47:05.439 Thank you. 01:47:05.439 --> 01:47:06.439 Stacy? 01:47:06.439 --> 01:47:07.439 Aye. 01:47:07.439 --> 01:47:08.439 Shadle? 01:47:08.439 --> 01:47:09.439 Aye. 01:47:09.439 --> 01:47:10.439 Sanders? 01:47:10.439 --> 01:47:11.439 Aye. 01:47:11.439 --> 01:47:37.289 Klemm, Johnson, Simmons, and Parker. The resolution is adopted 8 to 0. Item number 22 is the adoption of Resolution 2026-42. Could you please read this? Resolution approving an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services related to the 2026 Street projects. 01:47:37.289 --> 01:47:43.810 Thank you your honor and very similar to the the last item we have a 01:47:44.609 --> 01:47:51.090 This will be the year two of our five-year plan and that includes the streets previously mentioned 01:47:51.310 --> 01:47:59.369 We also are coming and asking for Street Project construction engineering services for the 2026 Street Reconstruction Plan 01:47:59.970 --> 01:48:01.050 as 01:48:01.050 --> 01:48:07.250 We normally do these contracts have been extremely valuable in terms of ensuring that what we're paying for is 01:48:07.289 --> 01:48:12.930 is done correctly, it's done at the proper specification, and we are taking care of all 01:48:12.930 --> 01:48:18.250 the items along the way that need to be dealt with, and that is in large part due to the 01:48:18.250 --> 01:48:23.309 oversight and the engineering services provided by Fehr Graham during the construction season. 01:48:23.309 --> 01:48:30.649 So staff recommends moving forward with this agreement with Fehr Graham for $265,000 for 01:48:30.649 --> 01:48:34.329 construction engineering contract through this construction season. 01:48:34.329 --> 01:48:35.930 Is there a motion to adopt? 01:48:35.930 --> 01:48:36.930 So moved. 01:48:36.930 --> 01:48:46.239 Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion on the 01:48:46.239 --> 01:48:52.119 resolution. Alderman Sanders. What construction company is going to 01:48:52.119 --> 01:48:57.680 participate in this? It's further down on your agenda. Say that again? It's 01:48:57.680 --> 01:49:00.199 further down on your agenda. Those are the construction companies. You'll be 01:49:00.199 --> 01:49:08.440 approving them soon. Fishers got the first package, Helm got the second package, and 01:49:08.440 --> 01:49:09.680 Fischer's got the third package. 01:49:09.680 --> 01:49:10.180 Oh, okay. 01:49:10.359 --> 01:49:10.859 Okay. 01:49:11.119 --> 01:49:11.619 Thank you. 01:49:14.050 --> 01:49:15.210 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 01:49:15.489 --> 01:49:16.130 Stacy. 01:49:16.449 --> 01:49:16.949 Aye. 01:49:17.170 --> 01:49:17.670 Shadle. 01:49:17.690 --> 01:49:18.190 Aye. 01:49:18.190 --> 01:49:18.770 Sanders. 01:49:18.770 --> 01:49:19.270 Aye. 01:49:19.270 --> 01:49:19.850 Sellers. 01:49:19.850 --> 01:49:20.350 Aye. 01:49:20.369 --> 01:49:20.869 Klemm. 01:49:20.970 --> 01:49:21.470 Aye. 01:49:21.470 --> 01:49:21.970 Johnson. 01:49:21.970 --> 01:49:22.470 Aye. 01:49:22.470 --> 01:49:22.970 Simmons. 01:49:33.260 --> 01:49:33.819 Thank you. 01:49:33.819 --> 01:49:34.539 And Parker. 01:49:34.659 --> 01:49:35.159 Aye. 01:49:35.300 --> 01:49:37.460 The resolution is adopted eight to zero. 01:49:37.940 --> 01:49:40.020 Item number 23 is the adoption of resolution. 01:49:40.020 --> 01:49:41.920 Item number 23 is the adoption of resolution 2026-43. 01:49:41.920 --> 01:49:43.239 Could you please read this? 01:49:43.239 --> 01:49:46.800 Resolution ratifying emergency repairs of hot mix asphalt 01:49:46.800 --> 01:49:51.159 paver by Altafer Cat. 01:49:51.159 --> 01:49:52.159 Manager Boyer. 01:49:52.159 --> 01:49:53.520 Thank you, Your Honor. 01:49:53.520 --> 01:49:55.680 Every year, we send the paver back 01:49:55.680 --> 01:49:59.960 to be gone through by the manufacturer rep. 01:49:59.960 --> 01:50:03.039 And then whatever repairs need to be made are made. 01:50:03.039 --> 01:50:05.800 This year, when the paver was returned, 01:50:05.800 --> 01:50:08.960 They had requested that we bring it back later in the season, 01:50:08.960 --> 01:50:11.640 and it got so late that we brought it back here 01:50:11.640 --> 01:50:14.039 at the very tail end of winter. 01:50:14.039 --> 01:50:16.560 And then, of course, we were informed 01:50:16.560 --> 01:50:20.140 that there was about $16,467 worth of repairs 01:50:20.140 --> 01:50:21.399 that the paver needed. 01:50:21.399 --> 01:50:27.640 So the staff is requesting you to ratify this resolution 01:50:27.640 --> 01:50:30.140 so that we can go ahead and get that paver back 01:50:30.140 --> 01:50:33.800 in time for street construction season. 01:50:33.800 --> 01:50:35.079 Is there a motion to adopt? 01:50:35.079 --> 01:50:36.079 Sommel 01:50:36.079 --> 01:50:37.079 Second 01:50:37.079 --> 01:50:49.199 A motion made by Alderman Sellers, no, oh, I'm sorry, made by Alderman Johnson and seconded 01:50:49.199 --> 01:50:50.199 by Alderman Shadle 01:50:50.199 --> 01:50:51.199 Yeah 01:50:51.199 --> 01:50:56.039 Discussion on the resolution 01:50:56.039 --> 01:50:57.039 Yes 01:50:57.039 --> 01:50:58.760 Alderman Sanders 01:50:58.760 --> 01:50:59.760 Yeah 01:50:59.760 --> 01:51:03.079 Manager Boyer, how long have we had this paper? 01:51:03.079 --> 01:51:06.079 I believe we purchased it in 2022. 01:51:06.079 --> 01:51:13.079 Okay, so it had not had an upgrade, not an upgrade, but an evaluation since then. 01:51:13.079 --> 01:51:16.079 No, it's been back every year. It usually costs $5,000. 01:51:16.079 --> 01:51:18.079 Just for an evaluation? 01:51:18.079 --> 01:51:21.079 They do an evaluation and a tune-up. 01:51:21.079 --> 01:51:31.710 Oh, and the thing is, they are, this is every projection of every year that they do this? 01:51:31.710 --> 01:51:36.029 Well, as the equipment gets older, I'm guessing we're going to have more and more, you know, 01:51:36.029 --> 01:51:41.029 bills associated with making it ready for the next season. However, you know, as far 01:51:41.029 --> 01:51:46.350 as pavers are concerned, it's fairly minor, you know, maintenance costs associated even 01:51:46.350 --> 01:51:52.989 at $16,000. You know, the paver, I think, what new was around $300,000. So, okay. Thank 01:51:52.989 --> 01:51:53.989 you. 01:51:53.989 --> 01:52:25.560 Any further discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the role. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item 24 is adoption of resolution 2026-44. Could you please read this? Resolution approving agreement and plans and specifications as approved by 01:52:25.560 --> 01:52:31.760 by State of Illinois, IDOT, for a joint city-state milling and resurfacing project on FAP Route 01:52:31.760 --> 01:52:34.159 5241, which is South Street. 01:52:34.159 --> 01:52:36.039 Manager Boyer? 01:52:36.039 --> 01:52:37.039 Thank you, Your Honor. 01:52:37.039 --> 01:52:40.800 So for about a year, we've been planning on the reconstruction of South Street from, or 01:52:40.800 --> 01:52:44.279 the repaving of South Street from Galena to Locust. 01:52:44.279 --> 01:52:49.239 This will be primarily led by State IDOT District 2, and we're very fortunate to be part of 01:52:49.239 --> 01:52:55.680 of a pilot program that would get that unmarked state route resurfaced. 01:52:55.680 --> 01:53:08.199 They have come to us here within the last weeks and requested they need a $22,943 match for 01:53:08.199 --> 01:53:13.979 the $5,750,000 they plan to invest in this community. 01:53:13.979 --> 01:53:24.699 Staff requests that council approve this appropriation of $22,943 for the city's match with State 01:53:24.699 --> 01:53:25.699 District 2. 01:53:25.699 --> 01:53:26.699 Is there a motion to adopt? 01:53:26.699 --> 01:53:27.699 So moved. 01:53:27.699 --> 01:53:28.699 So moved. 01:53:28.699 --> 01:53:29.699 Second. 01:53:29.699 --> 01:53:32.539 A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 01:53:32.539 --> 01:53:34.020 Discussion on the resolution. 01:53:34.020 --> 01:53:36.699 Madam Clerk, please. 01:53:36.699 --> 01:53:38.699 This is actually approving the plans. 01:53:38.699 --> 01:53:39.699 Oh, I apologize. 01:53:39.699 --> 01:53:40.699 The next one is the match. 01:53:40.699 --> 01:53:41.699 Was I on the... 01:53:41.699 --> 01:53:42.699 I think you're ahead. 01:53:42.699 --> 01:53:43.699 I'm sorry. 01:53:43.699 --> 01:53:49.380 I'm sorry about that. You are correct. Yes, staff request moving forward with the project 01:53:49.380 --> 01:53:50.880 with the plan set. Thank you. 01:53:50.880 --> 01:53:52.939 Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? 01:53:52.939 --> 01:53:53.939 Stacy? 01:53:53.939 --> 01:53:56.779 Okay, sorry. On the right one? 01:53:56.779 --> 01:53:59.140 We are, I'll be asking for the twenty- 01:53:59.140 --> 01:54:04.979 This is that sheet. What Manager Boyer explained was actually item number twenty-five. 01:54:04.979 --> 01:54:08.979 Should I read item twenty-five into the record? 01:54:08.979 --> 01:54:14.060 So what Manager Boyer explained was appropriating and allocating matching funds to Illinois 01:54:14.060 --> 01:54:19.500 Department of Transportation Street Project on FAP Route 5241 South Street. 01:54:19.500 --> 01:54:22.819 This is appropriating the funds for it. 01:54:22.819 --> 01:54:28.060 Okay, so can I get a motion to adopt Resolution 2026-47? 01:54:28.060 --> 01:54:29.060 So moved. 01:54:29.060 --> 01:54:30.060 Second. 01:54:30.060 --> 01:54:32.399 Okay. 01:54:32.399 --> 01:54:33.399 Alderman Sellers, was that you? 01:54:33.399 --> 01:54:34.399 Mm-hmm. 01:54:34.399 --> 01:54:35.399 Do we have a second? 01:54:35.399 --> 01:54:36.399 Yeah. 01:54:36.399 --> 01:54:38.800 Alderman Shadle. 01:54:38.800 --> 01:55:11.810 discussion on what was just presented. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? And Parker? Aye. Resolution 202647 is adopted 8 to 0. Okay, so then let's go back to 202644. Do we still have the motion on the floor? Redo it? Okay. Madam Clerk, would you please read 01:55:11.810 --> 01:55:19.289 Resolution Approving Agreement and Plans and Specifications as Proposed by the State of 01:55:19.289 --> 01:55:26.090 Illinois, IDOT, for a Joint City-State Milling and Resurfacing Project on FAP Route 5241, 01:55:26.090 --> 01:55:27.090 S.S. 01:55:27.090 --> 01:55:32.689 I have nothing more to add, this is just the agreement with District 2 moving forward. 01:55:32.689 --> 01:55:35.810 Do we have a motion to adopt? 01:55:35.810 --> 01:55:36.810 So move. 01:55:36.810 --> 01:55:37.810 Second. 01:55:37.810 --> 01:55:45.489 made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle, discussion on the resolution. Alderman Klemm. 01:55:45.489 --> 01:55:51.250 Yeah, I'd just like to say that, you know, this is a road that's been in the offing for a long period 01:55:51.250 --> 01:55:59.090 of time, but I really got to congratulate the team of whoever all was involved to picking this up and 01:55:59.090 --> 01:56:05.170 getting the job done. You know, it's always been a going to be where, you know, so it's a nice thing 01:56:05.170 --> 01:56:40.069 Thank you. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? I said aye, I don't know if you heard me. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item number 26 is the adoption of resolution 202645. Could you please read this? Resolution approving an opportunities 01:56:40.069 --> 01:56:41.069 Boyer. 01:56:41.069 --> 01:56:44.390 What is the zone grant agreement between the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic 01:56:44.390 --> 01:56:48.109 Development and the City of Freeport regarding sewer lining project? 01:56:48.109 --> 01:56:49.109 Manager Boyer. 01:56:49.109 --> 01:56:50.590 Thank you, Your Honor. 01:56:50.590 --> 01:56:57.949 Fehr Graham submitted a DCEO reimbursement grant for utility sewer lining. 01:56:57.949 --> 01:57:02.789 The city's been investing nearly $500,000 a year in our sewer lining program, which 01:57:02.789 --> 01:57:11.670 is required by EPA CMOM. That's basically an infiltration requirement. The city was 01:57:11.670 --> 01:57:16.789 recently awarded a $100,000 reimbursement for a successful project completed in 2025 01:57:16.789 --> 01:57:22.310 by Hare Construction and city staff are requesting city council approve a resolution to accept the 01:57:22.310 --> 01:57:30.390 funds from DCEO grant funds for accounting and transparency purposes. Thank you. Is there a 01:57:30.390 --> 01:57:31.390 Sir, motion to adopt. 01:57:31.390 --> 01:57:32.390 So moved. 01:57:32.390 --> 01:57:33.390 Second. 01:57:33.390 --> 01:57:36.989 The motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 01:57:36.989 --> 01:57:38.470 Discussion on the resolution. 01:57:38.470 --> 01:57:42.310 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 01:57:42.310 --> 01:57:43.310 Stacy. 01:57:43.310 --> 01:57:44.310 Aye. 01:57:44.310 --> 01:57:45.310 Shadle. 01:57:45.310 --> 01:57:46.310 Aye. 01:57:46.310 --> 01:57:47.310 Sanders. 01:57:47.310 --> 01:57:48.310 Aye. 01:57:48.310 --> 01:57:49.310 Sellers. 01:57:49.310 --> 01:57:50.310 Aye. 01:57:50.310 --> 01:57:51.310 Klemm. 01:57:51.310 --> 01:57:52.310 Aye. 01:57:52.310 --> 01:57:53.310 Johnson. 01:57:53.310 --> 01:57:54.310 Aye. 01:57:54.310 --> 01:57:55.310 Simmons. 01:57:55.310 --> 01:57:56.310 Aye. 01:57:56.310 --> 01:57:57.310 And Parker. 01:57:57.310 --> 01:57:58.310 Aye. 01:57:58.310 --> 01:57:59.310 The resolution is adopted 8-0. 01:57:59.310 --> 01:58:03.390 please read this. Resolution approving the purchase of a sanitary sewer lateral 01:58:03.390 --> 01:58:07.829 camera and locator from Ferguson Water Works. Thank you manager Boyer. Thank you 01:58:07.829 --> 01:58:12.930 your honor this is kind of a specialized piece of equipment. Our old one was I 01:58:12.930 --> 01:58:19.229 believe from 1988 so it failed recently and we no longer have a camera that we 01:58:19.229 --> 01:58:25.309 can put into a sewer lateral and do checks where people sewer connections 01:58:25.309 --> 01:58:33.630 Connecting to the collection system. So we have received a quote from RIDGID, I'm 01:58:33.630 --> 01:58:40.190 sorry, a camera by RIDGID commercial products and this is through our 01:58:40.190 --> 01:58:47.690 normal utility distributor for a price of $21,398.98. There at Ferguson 01:58:47.690 --> 01:58:52.750 Waterworks is the supplier and city staff request moving forward with this 01:58:52.750 --> 01:58:56.210 is the purchase of this small camera for sewer laterals. 01:58:56.210 --> 01:58:57.369 Is there a motion to adopt? 01:58:57.369 --> 01:58:58.210 So moved. 01:58:58.210 --> 01:58:59.409 Second. 01:58:59.409 --> 01:59:00.250 Second. 01:59:02.510 --> 01:59:04.729 We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, 01:59:04.729 --> 01:59:07.409 seconded by Alderman Parker. 01:59:07.409 --> 01:59:09.550 Discussion on the resolution. 01:59:09.550 --> 01:59:10.909 Alderman Sanders. 01:59:10.909 --> 01:59:12.430 Oh, please. 01:59:12.430 --> 01:59:17.430 Yeah, Mr. Boyer, that is pretty old. 01:59:17.989 --> 01:59:19.609 Since 19, what? 01:59:19.609 --> 01:59:20.449 88. 01:59:20.449 --> 01:59:21.390 88. 01:59:21.390 --> 01:59:26.949 and it's pretty old does that come with the vehicle equipped with the vehicle 01:59:26.949 --> 01:59:31.829 itself this is just the camera that attaches to the recording equipment so 01:59:31.829 --> 01:59:39.789 it's a small high-res color camera that goes into the sewer laterals 01:59:39.789 --> 01:59:50.479 So, how old is the van itself, I mean the vehicle itself, I mean is it going to be able 01:59:50.479 --> 01:59:54.800 to withstand the longevity of the camera? 01:59:54.800 --> 02:00:00.079 Well, you're getting two things going on here, one is the sewer lateral camera is just a 02:00:00.079 --> 02:00:07.640 Small. Standalone piece of equipment. The van is the sewer camera truck. And so that's 02:00:07.640 --> 02:00:12.399 all still there and we use it all the time. Okay. I'm just wondering what the condition 02:00:12.399 --> 02:00:19.760 of it was. Yeah. It's in a serviceable condition. Serviceable. Okay. All right. Madam Clerk, 02:00:19.760 --> 02:00:27.159 please take the roll. Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Klemm. Aye. 02:00:27.159 --> 02:00:38.159 Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item 28 is approval of the bid. Could you please read? 02:00:38.159 --> 02:00:47.159 Bid opening on March 17, 2026 for street and water main projects for 2026 package B. Manager Boyer? 02:00:47.159 --> 02:00:55.159 Thank you, Your Honor. The city has posted a bid for our street reconstruction program for package B. 02:00:55.159 --> 02:00:59.319 We received three local bids, or three bids for the project. 02:00:59.319 --> 02:01:08.119 Fisher Excavating Freeport was the lowest responsive bidder in the amount of $1,604,723.40. 02:01:08.119 --> 02:01:12.680 I believe the other bidders, and Darren, correct me if I'm wrong, obviously Helm bid on this one, 02:01:12.680 --> 02:01:14.520 and who else bid on this? 02:01:14.520 --> 02:01:15.479 Kelsey Excavating. 02:01:15.479 --> 02:01:22.439 Right, Kelsey. Okay. There was a request and we need to incorporate this in the memos as we go with the other bidders. 02:01:22.439 --> 02:01:28.760 So the essentially staff is recommending approving this bid with Fisher Excavating for the amount of 02:01:28.760 --> 02:01:37.560 $1,604,723.40. Is there a motion to approve? So moved. City Manager. Yeah the the bidders are 02:01:37.560 --> 02:01:42.119 always attached on the certified bid tab. Yes but there was a request to put it on the memo. 02:01:42.119 --> 02:01:46.600 Oh all right. We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 02:01:46.600 --> 02:01:54.359 discussion on the bid alderman sanders well i i it's not the bid that i that i'm concerned about 02:01:55.000 --> 02:02:01.880 i'm concerned about not knowing what it is that we're excavating and i obviously i don't have 02:02:01.880 --> 02:02:09.960 the detailed information on the excavation part of it that justifies one million whatever dollars it 02:02:09.960 --> 02:02:23.989 Yes, it's in the memo. West Dewey Street, South Carroll, Pershing, Gladewood, and Seminole 02:02:23.989 --> 02:02:32.710 are in that package. It's all street aggregate and pavement removal and then repayment. 02:02:32.710 --> 02:02:33.989 Okay, thanks. 02:02:33.989 --> 02:02:37.670 Anything else? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 02:02:37.670 --> 02:02:38.229 Stacy? 02:02:39.109 --> 02:02:39.670 Aye. 02:02:39.670 --> 02:02:40.310 Shadle? 02:02:40.310 --> 02:02:40.789 Aye. 02:02:40.789 --> 02:02:41.590 Sanders? 02:02:41.590 --> 02:02:41.909 Aye. 02:02:42.069 --> 02:02:50.949 Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. That bid is approved, 8 to 0. 02:02:51.989 --> 02:02:59.029 And item 29, another bid, could you please read? March 24th, 2026, Street and Water Main 02:02:59.029 --> 02:03:05.750 Projects for 2026, Package C. Manager Boyer? Yep, thank you very much. Again, just like Package B, 02:03:05.750 --> 02:03:15.829 B. This one was won by Helm Group at $614,384.30, and this includes Concord Drive from Cimarron 02:03:15.829 --> 02:03:22.850 to Middlebury. So staff recommends moving forward with the successful bidder of Helm. 02:03:22.850 --> 02:03:24.989 Is there a motion to approve the bid? 02:03:24.989 --> 02:03:25.989 So moved. 02:03:25.989 --> 02:03:26.989 Second. 02:03:26.989 --> 02:03:31.909 Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on this bid? 02:03:31.909 --> 02:03:40.869 just again there was a request for the other bidders if we had those available 02:03:40.869 --> 02:03:47.909 so again it was Fisher's home and Kelsey thank you madam clerk please take the 02:03:47.909 --> 02:04:03.409 role Stacy Shadle Sanders Sellers Klemm Johnson Simmons and Parker oh and he is 02:04:03.409 --> 02:04:12.449 is absent. That passes seven to zero. And item number 30, the final bid. Bid opening 02:04:12.449 --> 02:04:19.529 on March 31st, 2026 Street and Water Main projects for 2026 Package A. Manager Boyer. 02:04:19.529 --> 02:04:24.569 Thank you, Mayor. It's going to be a very busy construction year. This was Package A, 02:04:24.569 --> 02:04:31.409 which includes Demeter, Benton, North Stewart, and also Water Main for those streets. The 02:04:31.409 --> 02:04:41.590 The city received three bids, Fishers, Kelsey, and Helm. Fishers was the low bid at $2,479,388. 02:04:41.590 --> 02:04:45.529 And staff recommends moving forward with this bid. 02:04:45.529 --> 02:04:46.529 So moved. 02:04:46.529 --> 02:04:47.529 Motion to approve. 02:04:47.529 --> 02:04:48.529 So moved. 02:04:48.529 --> 02:04:49.529 Second. 02:04:49.529 --> 02:04:54.909 The motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle. 02:04:54.909 --> 02:04:56.609 Discussion on this approval. 02:04:56.609 --> 02:05:00.770 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 02:05:00.770 --> 02:05:11.579 Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. 02:05:11.579 --> 02:05:22.430 And Parker? Aye. The motion passes 8-0. And item 31, another bid. Bid opening on March 02:05:22.430 --> 02:05:30.229 31st, 2026, MFT crack ceiling for 2026. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. Every year, 02:05:30.229 --> 02:05:34.810 as we pave roads a year or so later, we need to go and do our first maintenance step and 02:05:34.810 --> 02:05:39.609 Rout and fill those cracks with a mastic. That helps preserve the road and begins it 02:05:39.609 --> 02:05:48.329 off on the right path in terms of its wear. This year, we solicited bids for the crack 02:05:48.329 --> 02:06:00.850 filling process. The winning bidder was Denner Incorporated. The low bid was $105,777.93. 02:06:00.850 --> 02:06:07.850 and the other bidders were Complete Asphalt Service Company and SKC Construction. 02:06:07.850 --> 02:06:14.850 So staff recommends moving forward with the Denner bid for $105,777.93. 02:06:14.850 --> 02:06:16.850 Second. 02:06:16.850 --> 02:06:25.289 Motion made by Klemm, seconded by Sellers. 02:06:25.289 --> 02:06:28.289 Discussion on the bid. 02:06:28.289 --> 02:06:31.289 Madam Clerk, please take all of Ms. Stacy. 02:06:31.289 --> 02:06:39.289 So the city workers will not be doing any of this pavement, it's all going to be done through this company? 02:06:39.289 --> 02:06:52.310 It's not paving, it's crack sealing and we never do it. We don't have the equipment for crack sealing. 02:06:52.310 --> 02:06:54.310 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 02:06:54.310 --> 02:06:57.229 Stacy? 02:06:57.229 --> 02:06:58.229 Aye. 02:06:58.229 --> 02:06:59.229 Shadle? 02:06:59.229 --> 02:07:00.229 Aye. 02:07:00.229 --> 02:07:02.229 Sanders is absent, Sellers? 02:07:02.229 --> 02:07:03.229 Aye. 02:07:03.229 --> 02:07:04.229 Klemm? 02:07:04.229 --> 02:07:05.229 Aye. 02:07:05.229 --> 02:07:06.229 Johnson? 02:07:06.229 --> 02:07:12.829 Aye. 02:07:12.829 --> 02:07:13.829 Simmons? 02:07:13.829 --> 02:07:22.869 Thank you. Parker? Aye. The motion passes seven to zero. Reports from department heads. Finance? 02:07:22.869 --> 02:07:28.069 Nothing this evening. Thank you. Community development? Nothing this evening. Thank you. Public works? 02:07:29.430 --> 02:07:37.270 Just a couple project updates quickly. Lift station projects are underway. Generators are being set. 02:07:37.989 --> 02:07:43.029 You'll see that happening shortly. Automatic transfer switches, electrical will be changed. 02:07:43.029 --> 02:07:48.869 The MCC cabinets are in a delay from the manufacturer, so they won't be until June. 02:07:49.149 --> 02:07:52.590 The parking lot really started under heavy construction today 02:07:52.909 --> 02:07:55.109 down at the municipal lot downtown. 02:07:55.109 --> 02:07:59.430 They're installing storm sewer and moving forward with the pavement removal. 02:08:00.310 --> 02:08:02.829 The BIDOC project, we've been talking about that forever. 02:08:02.829 --> 02:08:04.470 The utilities are done. 02:08:04.470 --> 02:08:07.310 They're coring it out for roadway. 02:08:07.310 --> 02:08:10.989 And hopefully the plants will open around the first week of May. 02:08:10.989 --> 02:08:12.909 And that should be one of the first projects done. 02:08:13.029 --> 02:08:18.809 and the demo downtown is progressing rather be it's slow they're being careful 02:08:18.809 --> 02:08:22.309 not to damage the adjacent buildings and they've been working from the alley side 02:08:22.309 --> 02:08:25.630 so you can see a lot from the front they're trying to take it down you know 02:08:25.630 --> 02:08:32.109 a couple feet at a time wastewater treatment plant project is in full swing 02:08:32.109 --> 02:08:36.510 lots of construction workers out there if you haven't been by and well 12 02:08:36.510 --> 02:08:42.270 started last week with the dirt moving and the grading of the site so a lot of 02:08:42.270 --> 02:08:43.270 Huffines. 02:08:43.270 --> 02:08:44.270 Thank you, Mayor. 02:08:44.270 --> 02:08:45.270 Nothing this evening. 02:08:45.270 --> 02:08:46.270 Thank you. 02:08:46.270 --> 02:08:47.270 Police. 02:08:47.270 --> 02:08:53.829 I just would like to address just one thing that we are doing and as part of my tenure 02:08:53.829 --> 02:08:57.149 and being here at Freeport, which is a great city to come to. 02:08:57.149 --> 02:09:03.069 I came from Chicago to come to live here in Freeport and serve the citizens and the community 02:09:03.069 --> 02:09:04.989 and the residents of Freeport. 02:09:04.989 --> 02:09:06.869 So it is a great city to come to. 02:09:06.869 --> 02:09:11.949 But in regards to data integrity and regards to our systems, I need to do a whole overhaul 02:09:11.949 --> 02:09:17.210 All on our systems and that's what we're doing in regards to data, in regards to crime stats, 02:09:17.210 --> 02:09:21.449 in regards to arrests, in regards to our dispatch numbers. 02:09:21.449 --> 02:09:26.949 And in order to do that it's to ensure accuracy, reliability across all the systems. 02:09:26.949 --> 02:09:33.909 And in order to have that regularity compliance, it is not good practice to post something 02:09:33.909 --> 02:09:36.010 that is not ready to be post in order to have 02:09:36.010 --> 02:09:37.840 that is not ready to be posted in order to have operational efficiencies. 02:09:37.840 --> 02:09:41.739 We will get there, but the first thing that I need to do is to ensure that all my systems 02:09:41.739 --> 02:09:46.640 and all my data capturing systems are up to par and that all my officers are trained to 02:09:46.640 --> 02:09:47.800 do so. 02:09:47.800 --> 02:09:52.000 So we will have a platform for that because what I don't want is to have data which is 02:09:52.000 --> 02:09:56.119 garbage in and garbage out because that's not fair to all the community members and 02:09:56.119 --> 02:10:02.260 it's not also fair and correct in order to have any transparency in order to make trustworthy 02:10:02.260 --> 02:10:15.909 decisions for my department and for this community. Library? Nothing tonight. IT? City Manager? 02:10:16.550 --> 02:10:20.550 Thank you your honor. I do have something for tonight. This morning the city experienced a 02:10:20.550 --> 02:10:26.149 major water main break on cottonwood involving a 12-inch water main constructed of spun cast 02:10:26.149 --> 02:10:32.069 material. This pipe material is widely known in the industry as weak. It comprises most of our 02:10:32.069 --> 02:10:36.909 Harding, Suzie, Ben, and 02:10:36.909 --> 02:10:38.069 Paul. 02:10:38.069 --> 02:10:42.310 Over the last two years, the City has been installing i-hydrants throughout the system. 02:10:42.310 --> 02:10:46.890 These units are capable of monitoring pressure and temperature and they provided an important 02:10:46.890 --> 02:10:48.949 early warning this morning. 02:10:48.949 --> 02:10:54.310 According to our regulatory and compliance officer, the event began unfolding at approximately 02:10:54.310 --> 02:11:00.529 6.50 a.m. when the i-hydrant system began reporting low pressure at multiple locations. 02:11:00.529 --> 02:11:03.810 that signaled a significant system issue. 02:11:03.810 --> 02:11:07.029 Within minutes, Pat Ingram, our operations superintendent, 02:11:07.029 --> 02:11:10.689 was notified, and Rick Lindeman, our chief plan operator, 02:11:10.689 --> 02:11:14.170 reported that Well-8 was unable to keep up with the demand 02:11:14.170 --> 02:11:18.449 and moved to evaluate bringing additional capacity online. 02:11:18.449 --> 02:11:20.250 Staff quickly determined the problem 02:11:20.250 --> 02:11:22.489 involving a large mean break. 02:11:22.489 --> 02:11:26.409 And by 6.58 AM, the Freeport Police Department 02:11:26.409 --> 02:11:29.729 had helped identify the location of Cottonwood. 02:11:29.729 --> 02:11:32.250 Mr. Ingram was updated immediately. 02:11:32.250 --> 02:11:35.770 Darren was briefed, and crews under direction of John Liebenstein, 02:11:35.770 --> 02:11:39.409 our utility field crew foreman, were already moving to the site 02:11:39.409 --> 02:11:43.529 to throttle the line down and reduce water loss and stabilize the system. 02:11:43.529 --> 02:11:46.909 The coordination between the utility staff, the Freeport Police Department, 02:11:46.909 --> 02:11:50.170 was especially important in the early moments of the event. 02:11:50.170 --> 02:11:54.250 Police quickly helped confirm the break location, and our utility team, 02:11:54.250 --> 02:11:58.289 including John, and the field crew moved rapidly to isolate the line, 02:11:58.289 --> 02:12:01.210 Reducing water loss and stabilizing that system. 02:12:01.210 --> 02:12:04.289 Because the pressure loss and out of an abundance of caution, 02:12:04.289 --> 02:12:07.569 a boil order was issued for the city as a whole, 02:12:07.569 --> 02:12:10.449 while staff worked to determine the full extent of the impact. 02:12:10.449 --> 02:12:15.649 At this time, the known effects extend beyond Moss Canyon 02:12:15.649 --> 02:12:18.930 and the negative pressure was reported at the Brewster 02:12:18.930 --> 02:12:19.770 Hydrant. 02:12:19.770 --> 02:12:22.649 Additional I-hydrant alerts were received downtown and as far 02:12:22.649 --> 02:12:24.289 west as Galena. 02:12:24.289 --> 02:12:27.250 I also want to recognize our utility administrative staff, 02:12:27.250 --> 02:12:34.729 Tony, Tiffany, Cindy, Kathy, Carrie, and all the city staff here at City Hall, and especially 02:12:34.729 --> 02:12:39.010 our communications director, Bryan Bridge, for their timely and professional communication 02:12:39.010 --> 02:12:40.010 with the public. 02:12:40.010 --> 02:12:44.189 Thoughtful, clear, and professional communication during an event like this helps build trust 02:12:44.189 --> 02:12:48.289 and reflects the quality of the team currently serving the residents of Freeport. 02:12:48.289 --> 02:12:53.409 Overall, this was a timely and professional response to a significant infrastructure event. 02:12:53.409 --> 02:12:58.609 Our utility team, operation staff, plant staff, and John Lievenstein and the utility field 02:12:58.609 --> 02:13:03.409 crew, billing office, clerical staff, and communication staff, and supporting personnel 02:13:03.409 --> 02:13:09.850 moved quickly to identify the break, manage system pressure, reduced water loss, and communicated 02:13:09.850 --> 02:13:14.529 with the public and take the necessary public health precautions. 02:13:14.529 --> 02:13:19.810 Their response reflects professionalism and commitment to the city staff serving the residents 02:13:19.810 --> 02:13:21.569 of the city of Freeport. 02:13:21.569 --> 02:13:22.569 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 02:13:22.569 --> 02:13:28.569 Yes, totally agree, well done to all those that were involved. Alderman Stacey? 02:13:28.569 --> 02:13:43.569 I would just like to know, do we have a time on when? I was just surprised that we got a phone call and school has been cancelled for tomorrow because of the water issue. 02:13:43.569 --> 02:13:48.569 And I didn't know if it was still off or when it got turned on or anything. 02:13:48.569 --> 02:13:53.489 Manager Boyer? I think I can answer many of those. I think the water was bent 02:13:53.489 --> 02:13:57.210 definitely back on by one o'clock and I think it took us quite a while to do all 02:13:57.210 --> 02:14:02.689 the samples that are required. So I think there's 27 altogether, 26 need to come 02:14:02.689 --> 02:14:07.770 back tomorrow midday. I would imagine by around noon or one o'clock we'll have 02:14:07.770 --> 02:14:11.850 results on that and if we have any kind of failure on the testing we'll have to 02:14:11.850 --> 02:14:16.250 resample which will take another day. So in a best-case scenario you should know 02:14:16.250 --> 02:14:21.130 O'Neill by 3 o'clock tomorrow. In a worst case scenario, it'll be 3 o'clock on Wednesday. 02:14:21.130 --> 02:14:24.770 And you're talking about for the Boyer order. Yes, the Boyer order. Why they're just being 02:14:24.770 --> 02:14:35.609 cautious. The school district will get a notice, a call? Yes. Ullerman Shadle? Just want to 02:14:35.609 --> 02:14:44.729 thank the chief for choosing us. Ullerman Sanders? No, not at this moment. Ullerman Sellers? 02:14:44.729 --> 02:14:49.090 I'd just like to say that I am a little excited about all the work that's going to be going 02:14:49.090 --> 02:14:55.449 on this summer and just waiting to see all the results when we get it all done. 02:14:55.449 --> 02:14:59.090 Colin Klemm? 02:14:59.090 --> 02:15:05.010 Thank you to all involved in the ordeal this morning and the work getting it done. 02:15:05.010 --> 02:15:08.630 Attaboy to Bryan. 02:15:08.630 --> 02:15:13.810 He got out communications early and a lot of people were happy. 02:15:13.810 --> 02:15:20.810 I agree with Tom with everything he said and also congratulations to all those who have 02:15:20.810 --> 02:15:21.810 been there. 02:15:21.810 --> 02:15:22.810 Thank you. 02:15:22.810 --> 02:15:23.810 Thank you. 02:15:23.810 --> 02:15:24.810 Thank you. 02:15:24.810 --> 02:15:25.810 Thank you. 02:15:25.810 --> 02:15:26.810 Thank you. 02:15:26.810 --> 02:15:27.810 Thank you. 02:15:27.810 --> 02:15:28.810 Thank you. 02:15:28.810 --> 02:15:29.810 Thank you. 02:15:29.810 --> 02:15:30.810 Thank you. 02:15:30.810 --> 02:15:44.529 I agree with Tom with everything he said and also congratulations to all those who got 02:15:44.529 --> 02:15:45.529 promotions. 02:15:45.529 --> 02:15:50.329 I love to see people moving forward and stepping into the things they're designed for. 02:15:50.329 --> 02:15:51.329 Olloman-Simmons? 02:15:51.329 --> 02:15:56.539 I don't have anything. 02:15:56.539 --> 02:15:57.539 Thank you. 02:15:57.539 --> 02:15:58.539 Olloman-Parker? 02:15:58.539 --> 02:15:59.539 Nothing, Your Honor. 02:15:59.539 --> 02:16:01.539 And that leaves us with public comment. 02:16:01.539 --> 02:16:11.260 I received an email from Carol Krupke, Dear City of Freeport Council Persons, Mr. Boyer 02:16:11.260 --> 02:16:15.699 and Madam Mayor, a lot has been talked about in regards to the possibility of allowing 02:16:15.699 --> 02:16:20.659 animal control personnel to euthanize feral cats that are trapped by the city. 02:16:20.659 --> 02:16:23.079 I don't really understand this at all. 02:16:23.079 --> 02:16:28.739 You have an organization, NIPCO, run by volunteers that Freeport has worked well with previously, 02:16:28.739 --> 02:16:33.100 Ready and willing to continue addressing the issue of feral cats in the city. 02:16:33.100 --> 02:16:38.979 Why is this efficient and knowledgeable organization not being allowed to work as a team with Freeport? 02:16:38.979 --> 02:16:43.879 Letting NIPCO work with the city is much more cost-effective, no additional training, education 02:16:43.879 --> 02:16:46.700 for personnel, and much more humane. 02:16:46.700 --> 02:16:50.620 Before anything is set in stone, please, I'm asking you for myself and on behalf of the 02:16:50.620 --> 02:16:55.239 innocent animals to come back to the table with NIPCO and work together to make the cat 02:16:55.239 --> 02:16:57.500 population naturally go down. 02:16:57.500 --> 02:16:59.340 and Carol Krupke. 02:16:59.340 --> 02:17:01.459 Yes, ma'am. 02:17:03.100 --> 02:17:04.540 Good evening. 02:17:04.540 --> 02:17:06.540 My name is Maddie Brown. 02:17:06.540 --> 02:17:09.100 I live at 124 North Sunset. 02:17:09.100 --> 02:17:10.219 I'm kind of nervous. 02:17:11.420 --> 02:17:14.579 The reason I'm here was because I read this newsletter 02:17:15.780 --> 02:17:20.500 and it said animal control gave information in 2025 02:17:20.500 --> 02:17:24.770 that they trapped skunks. 02:17:24.770 --> 02:17:26.670 This is 2026. 02:17:26.670 --> 02:17:32.270 We notified Animal Control in 2025. 02:17:32.270 --> 02:17:37.090 They said they didn't do skunks. 02:17:37.090 --> 02:17:43.010 He said the city has a license, but there's no trained person 02:17:43.010 --> 02:17:46.649 to carry out this problem. 02:17:46.649 --> 02:17:50.290 He said the guy has to go to Chicago to be trained, 02:17:50.290 --> 02:17:55.250 and there's no date for his training. 02:17:55.250 --> 02:17:57.850 The breeding system is come and gone, 02:17:57.850 --> 02:18:06.290 and my neighbor has hired four trappers, which is $375 to $400. 02:18:06.290 --> 02:18:10.809 Then when they come back, it's another $100 or $175. 02:18:10.809 --> 02:18:16.010 They caught a total of four skunks and a cat. 02:18:16.010 --> 02:18:18.649 Let's see, we call animal control. 02:18:18.649 --> 02:18:19.690 They didn't help. 02:18:19.690 --> 02:18:21.649 We called the alderman. 02:18:21.649 --> 02:18:23.450 He referred us to the city manager, 02:18:23.450 --> 02:18:26.250 no response from that office. 02:18:26.250 --> 02:18:29.069 talked to the executive assistant of the mayor. 02:18:30.610 --> 02:18:32.270 She said, call Rockford 02:18:32.270 --> 02:18:35.450 and wild animals will be wild animals. 02:18:35.450 --> 02:18:38.770 I called the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. 02:18:38.770 --> 02:18:42.750 They don't handle wildlife inside the city. 02:18:43.590 --> 02:18:46.350 They referred me to another phone number. 02:18:46.350 --> 02:18:51.350 It's not just Sunset, Herd, Stewart, Green State. 02:18:51.350 --> 02:18:53.290 I was there after hours of detailer 02:18:53.290 --> 02:18:58.030 and the whole area was a cloud of skunk spray. 02:18:59.049 --> 02:19:04.959 I asked for a budget. 02:19:04.959 --> 02:19:09.959 Is there a budget to help my neighbors especially fight 02:19:11.020 --> 02:19:15.420 a surplus budget somewhere to get discretionary funds, 02:19:16.340 --> 02:19:21.340 a grant that would help because they have one to seven 02:19:21.340 --> 02:19:32.620 to seven, and this is second year and they're just, they can spray one in the afternoon, 02:19:32.620 --> 02:19:33.979 in the mornings. 02:19:33.979 --> 02:20:02.180 in the mornings 1 to 3 a.m. you wake up with that odor all over and it just doesn't go away in a few minutes it lingers so everybody says suggest trappers suggest trappers we've done that and they're not effective so I'm asking can we speed up the training can we get some kind of committee or somebody that can tone this down get rid 02:20:02.180 --> 02:20:11.340 Brown, Ms. Brown, your time has expired, but I'm sure that either the public works 02:20:11.340 --> 02:20:16.020 director or the city manager can answer your questions in just a couple of minutes. 02:20:16.020 --> 02:20:17.700 Is there any other public comments? 02:20:17.700 --> 02:20:23.020 I call the public works. 02:20:23.020 --> 02:20:24.020 There's the director. 02:20:24.020 --> 02:20:28.139 Did I talk to you? 02:20:28.139 --> 02:20:31.219 And I explained to you about the neighbor and they leaving the house. 02:20:31.219 --> 02:21:08.690 Hi, my name is Sue Cook, and I'm going to do something that's kind of out of the ordinary 02:21:08.690 --> 02:21:16.370 for me, but Mayor Miller, thank you so much for being a yay on the dispensary, because 02:21:16.370 --> 02:21:21.850 I have seen dispensaries in different cities, and they do bring in a lot of money. Now the 02:21:21.850 --> 02:21:30.110 and the traffic. It may be a little bit more the first couple weeks, but then it sort of 02:21:30.110 --> 02:21:35.469 lays itself out. So you're going to see a lot of money coming in to the city because 02:21:35.469 --> 02:21:41.469 of it. Also, rather than having your Freeport patients drive, medical patients drive to 02:21:41.469 --> 02:21:46.270 Fulton or Rockford and spend their money there, we want it spent in Freeport. So thank you 02:21:46.270 --> 02:21:47.750 very much for that. 02:21:47.750 --> 02:21:53.770 Thank you very much for being so eloquent. You weren't treated right. Thank you very 02:21:53.770 --> 02:21:58.069 much for being so eloquent. And the other thing was I was going to say something about 02:21:58.069 --> 02:22:05.750 the cats. Carol did say pretty much exactly what I was going to say regarding the feral 02:22:05.750 --> 02:22:12.989 cats. However, if there is a capture of a feral cat, Fortunate Souls is the place that 02:22:12.989 --> 02:22:19.149 that will take feral cats and retrain them, whether they be adults or kittens, whether 02:22:19.149 --> 02:22:26.469 they're nipped and have been neutered or spayed, Fortunate Souls is the place to call. 02:22:26.469 --> 02:22:33.030 But please don't euthanize them because I don't know how with a feral you'd be able 02:22:33.030 --> 02:22:38.030 to get into a vein and a heart stick would be horrible. 02:22:38.030 --> 02:22:42.430 So especially for kittens that didn't ask to come into this world. 02:22:42.430 --> 02:22:43.930 Thank you very much. 02:22:43.930 --> 02:22:46.549 Any other public comments this evening? 02:22:46.549 --> 02:22:48.549 Seeing none I will entertain a motion to adjourn. 02:22:48.549 --> 02:22:49.549 So moved. 02:22:49.549 --> 02:22:50.549 Second. 02:22:50.549 --> 02:22:53.649 I give a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers, Madam Clerk, please take 02:22:53.649 --> 02:22:54.649 the roll. 02:22:54.649 --> 02:22:55.649 Stacy? 02:22:55.649 --> 02:22:56.649 Aye. 02:22:56.649 --> 02:22:57.649 Shadle? 02:22:57.649 --> 02:22:58.649 Aye. 02:22:58.649 --> 02:22:59.649 Sanders? 02:22:59.649 --> 02:23:00.649 Aye. 02:23:00.649 --> 02:23:01.649 Sellers? 02:23:01.649 --> 02:23:02.649 Aye. 02:23:02.649 --> 02:23:03.649 Klemm? 02:23:03.649 --> 02:23:04.649 Aye. 02:23:04.649 --> 02:23:05.649 Johnson? 02:23:05.649 --> 02:23:06.649 Aye. 02:23:06.649 --> 02:23:07.649 Simmons? 02:23:07.649 --> 02:23:08.649 Daze. 02:23:08.649 --> 02:23:09.649 Parker? 02:23:09.649 --> 02:23:10.649 Daze.