WEBVTT 00:00:00.080 --> 00:00:24.170 Good evening. Linda, could you please give the invocation this evening. Let us bow our 00:00:24.170 --> 00:00:29.210 heads. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord on my soul. While we live, we will praise the 00:00:29.210 --> 00:00:32.630 and 00:00:32.630 --> 00:00:37.530 thank you for our mayor our city manager the leaders in the city and this council 00:00:37.530 --> 00:00:40.549 they are all leaders and they are all servants 00:00:40.549 --> 00:00:45.049 serving the people of this community by making decisions that affect our lives 00:00:45.049 --> 00:00:48.869 we come to you with gratitude and thank you for being a God of love 00:00:48.869 --> 00:00:53.009 who is with us in this very room you never leave us 00:00:53.009 --> 00:00:56.649 nor forsake us your grace will lead us this evening 00:00:56.649 --> 00:01:09.650 We thank you for the calling you have placed on these leaders to be good stewards of the finances and possessions of this city and to have respect and honor for one another as the business is discussed and decisions are made. 00:01:09.650 --> 00:01:19.650 We come into this room tonight as complex human beings, carrying burdens, carrying joy and hope and trusting that you alone can hold us together in your love and peace. 00:01:19.650 --> 00:01:25.689 Pease. Help us trust you more and lean not on our own understanding. Remove all fears, 00:01:25.689 --> 00:01:30.650 cancel all animosity, and bring your peace as we lean on your everlasting arms to accomplish 00:01:30.650 --> 00:01:35.650 your purposes for this city and all who dwell here. In Jesus' name, amen. 00:01:35.650 --> 00:01:38.129 Amen. Thank you, Linda. Now we'll officially call 00:01:38.129 --> 00:01:40.890 this meeting to order. Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? 00:01:40.890 --> 00:01:42.370 Mayor Miller? Here. 00:01:42.370 --> 00:01:44.450 Alderpersons, Klemm? Here. 00:01:44.450 --> 00:01:46.969 Monroe? Here. 00:01:46.969 --> 00:01:49.530 Simmons is absent. Parker? Here. 00:01:49.530 --> 00:01:57.170 Stacy? Here. Shadle? Here. Sanders? Here. And Sellers? Here. If you could please stand 00:01:57.170 --> 00:02:04.700 for the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Sellers. I pledge allegiance to the flag of 00:02:04.700 --> 00:02:12.020 the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, 00:02:12.020 --> 00:02:20.780 indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Item number one is the approval of the 00:02:20.780 --> 00:02:50.780 and 00:02:50.780 --> 00:03:02.879 December 16, 2024. Is there such a motion? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman 00:03:02.879 --> 00:03:08.099 Monroe, seconded by Alderman Klemm. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? 00:03:08.099 --> 00:03:14.139 That motion passes. Public comment. We have two that are on agenda topics for this 00:03:14.139 --> 00:03:31.639 evening. Rhonda Scott, if you would like to have three minutes. Hello, I'm Rhonda Scott. 00:03:31.639 --> 00:03:38.060 Scott, I'd like to comment, really ask some questions before you consider resolution number 00:03:38.060 --> 00:03:47.759 13, which has something to do with police health employment or employment health plan. 00:03:47.759 --> 00:03:53.960 I read the notes on this and it was something about some contract had been negotiated and 00:03:53.960 --> 00:03:55.840 it wasn't clear. 00:03:55.840 --> 00:04:01.120 What happened is when I read the memo, I had a whole lot of questions, like first of all, 00:04:01.120 --> 00:04:04.599 What do you mean police officers are getting a pension and we're paying for their health 00:04:04.599 --> 00:04:08.400 insurance like shouldn't they be paying for their health insurance? 00:04:08.400 --> 00:04:14.439 So I looked at what other cities were doing and when I looked up Rockford and Chicago, 00:04:14.439 --> 00:04:23.180 the officers there, if they retire under the age of 55, the city contributes nothing. 00:04:23.180 --> 00:04:27.240 They are allowed to participate in the city's healthcare plan but the officers have to pay 00:04:27.240 --> 00:04:29.120 out of their own pockets. 00:04:29.120 --> 00:04:37.720 once they are 55 they have the option of staying in the city plan and in Rockford 00:04:37.720 --> 00:04:42.199 the city contributes 50% the officer contributes the rest out of their pocket 00:04:42.199 --> 00:04:49.360 and in the city of Chicago the officers are required to contribute 3.5% of 00:04:49.360 --> 00:04:54.040 their annuity I'm not sure what that amount is I'm just passing this 00:04:54.040 --> 00:04:56.040 and 00:04:57.040 --> 00:04:59.040 John, and I'm going to turn this information onto you just 00:05:00.040 --> 00:05:04.040 because the memo, it's asking you to approve a resolution, 00:05:04.040 --> 00:05:08.040 which you probably have no idea what it means. And so I would 00:05:08.040 --> 00:05:12.040 like for you to ask some questions and find out exactly 00:05:12.040 --> 00:05:16.040 what are we paying for retired officers, health insurance, is 00:05:16.040 --> 00:05:19.040 this a standard? I know most people, the industry standard 00:05:19.040 --> 00:05:22.040 is when you retire after working at a company for 30 years, you 00:05:22.040 --> 00:05:23.040 Kessler. 00:05:23.040 --> 00:05:26.480 You don't have the company paying for it. 00:05:26.480 --> 00:05:32.639 So I hate to be negative, but it just seems like we should run a city like a business. 00:05:32.639 --> 00:05:34.040 We have a business manager. 00:05:34.040 --> 00:05:35.720 We should be running it like a business. 00:05:35.720 --> 00:05:40.480 We should be aware of cost, and I would ask for you respectfully to look at the cost of 00:05:40.480 --> 00:05:43.319 what we're paying and ask some questions, please. 00:05:43.319 --> 00:05:45.720 Thank you. 00:05:45.720 --> 00:05:46.720 Next is Akia Sanders. 00:05:46.720 --> 00:05:53.860 How are you doing? 00:05:53.860 --> 00:05:54.980 My name is Akia Sanders. 00:05:54.980 --> 00:05:55.980 Duckman. 00:05:55.980 --> 00:05:58.899 So I wanted to speak on item number five, reappointing Steve Cox. 00:05:58.899 --> 00:06:01.639 I don't believe he should be reappointed. 00:06:01.639 --> 00:06:07.139 From November 19th, he actually assisted Wayne Duckman in illegally knocking down one of 00:06:07.139 --> 00:06:12.579 my residents from what I understand not to be even approved by council to get knocked 00:06:12.579 --> 00:06:13.579 down. 00:06:13.579 --> 00:06:15.699 And I just don't think he should be reappointed at this time. 00:06:15.699 --> 00:06:23.740 Okay. 00:06:23.740 --> 00:06:26.860 Now we can move on to item number four, which is the consent agenda. 00:06:26.860 --> 00:06:30.579 The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion unless a 00:06:30.579 --> 00:06:31.579 Huffines. 00:06:31.579 --> 00:06:32.579 Thank you. 00:06:32.579 --> 00:06:35.459 The next member of the council would like to have something removed for further discussion. 00:06:35.459 --> 00:06:42.100 Seeing nothing, we will approve to receive and place on file the minutes from the boards 00:06:42.100 --> 00:06:47.500 and commission meetings from the Foreign Fire Insurance Board dated October 10th, 2024, 00:06:47.500 --> 00:06:52.620 the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners from October 25th and 26th, 2024, Greater 00:06:52.620 --> 00:06:58.819 Freeport Partnerships Monthly Report dated December 18th, 2024, the National Day of Racial 00:06:58.819 --> 00:07:08.420 Healing Proclamation, approval of finance bills payable in the total of $4,466,436.46. 00:07:08.420 --> 00:07:17.399 The approval of payroll for pay period ending December 14th, 2024 in the total of $657,123.22 00:07:17.399 --> 00:07:26.379 as well as payroll for December 28th, 2024 in the total of $668,168.88. 00:07:26.379 --> 00:07:29.220 is there a motion to approve the consent agenda? 00:07:29.220 --> 00:07:30.060 So moved. 00:07:30.060 --> 00:07:30.879 Second. 00:07:30.879 --> 00:07:31.720 Second. 00:07:31.720 --> 00:07:35.829 We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, 00:07:35.829 --> 00:07:38.850 seconded by Alderman Klemm. 00:07:40.250 --> 00:07:42.069 Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? 00:07:42.069 --> 00:07:42.910 Sellers? 00:07:42.910 --> 00:07:43.730 Aye. 00:07:43.730 --> 00:07:44.569 Klemm? 00:07:44.569 --> 00:07:45.410 Aye. 00:07:45.410 --> 00:07:46.230 Monroe? 00:07:46.230 --> 00:07:47.069 Aye. 00:07:47.069 --> 00:07:47.889 Simmons? 00:07:47.889 --> 00:07:48.730 Aye. 00:07:48.730 --> 00:07:49.569 Parker? 00:07:49.569 --> 00:07:50.389 Aye. 00:07:50.389 --> 00:07:51.230 Stacy? 00:07:51.230 --> 00:07:52.069 Aye. 00:07:52.069 --> 00:07:52.870 Shadle? 00:07:52.870 --> 00:07:53.709 Aye. 00:07:53.709 --> 00:07:54.550 And Sanders? 00:07:54.550 --> 00:07:55.370 Aye. 00:07:55.370 --> 00:07:56.209 The motion is approved, eight to zero. 00:07:56.209 --> 00:07:57.050 Thank you. 00:07:57.050 --> 00:08:17.050 Reappointment of Patrick McDermott to the board of the Northwest Illinois Enterprise Zone for a three-year term effective through December 31, 2027 and the reappointment of Steve Cox to the board of the Northwest Illinois Enterprise Zone for a three-year term effective through December 31, 2027. 00:08:17.050 --> 00:08:21.050 Thank you. Is there a motion to reappoint these? Yes. 00:08:21.050 --> 00:08:22.050 So moved. 00:08:22.050 --> 00:08:25.050 I would like to make a motion that we divide these up. 00:08:25.050 --> 00:08:31.129 Sure. Okay, so we'll start with the first one, Patrick McDermott. Is there a motion 00:08:31.129 --> 00:08:32.129 to approve? 00:08:32.129 --> 00:08:33.129 So moved. 00:08:33.129 --> 00:08:34.129 Second. 00:08:34.129 --> 00:08:41.090 Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion? 00:08:41.090 --> 00:08:42.090 Yes. 00:08:42.090 --> 00:08:49.809 Thank you, Madam Mayor. This question goes to Community Development. Do we know if Mr. 00:08:49.809 --> 00:08:55.639 McDermott has registered all of his rental properties here in the City of Freeport? 00:08:55.639 --> 00:09:01.460 I'm not sure I'd have to look into that for you. 00:09:01.460 --> 00:09:04.799 Any other discussion? 00:09:04.799 --> 00:09:08.200 And clerk, please take the roll. 00:09:08.200 --> 00:09:09.480 Sellers? 00:09:09.480 --> 00:09:10.320 Aye. 00:09:10.320 --> 00:09:10.919 Klemm? 00:09:10.919 --> 00:09:11.419 Aye. 00:09:11.419 --> 00:09:12.960 Monroe? 00:09:12.960 --> 00:09:13.639 No. 00:09:13.639 --> 00:09:14.519 Simmons? 00:09:14.519 --> 00:09:15.279 No. 00:09:15.279 --> 00:09:15.960 Parker? 00:09:15.960 --> 00:09:16.519 Aye. 00:09:16.519 --> 00:09:17.279 Stacy? 00:09:17.279 --> 00:09:18.039 No. 00:09:18.039 --> 00:09:18.679 Shadle? 00:09:18.679 --> 00:09:19.399 Aye. 00:09:19.399 --> 00:09:20.360 And Sanders? 00:09:20.360 --> 00:09:21.960 No. 00:09:21.960 --> 00:09:23.919 We are tied at 4 to 4. 00:09:23.919 --> 00:09:25.480 Madam Mayor, what say you? 00:09:25.480 --> 00:09:27.720 Aye. 00:09:27.720 --> 00:09:31.039 And McDermott is appointed 5 to 4. 00:09:31.039 --> 00:09:33.679 and then next would be the reappointment for Steve Cox. 00:09:33.679 --> 00:09:35.320 Is there a motion to approve? 00:09:35.320 --> 00:09:36.519 I'll move. 00:09:36.519 --> 00:09:37.519 Second. 00:09:37.519 --> 00:09:40.559 The motion made by Alderman Parker, 00:09:40.559 --> 00:09:42.399 seconded by Alderman Shadle. 00:09:42.399 --> 00:09:46.490 Discussion? 00:09:46.490 --> 00:09:47.370 Alderman Monroe. 00:09:47.370 --> 00:09:48.049 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 00:09:48.049 --> 00:09:49.889 I'd like to make a motion that we move this 00:09:49.889 --> 00:09:54.730 to the next regularly scheduled meeting based on the fact 00:09:54.730 --> 00:10:00.009 that Mr. Cox is involved in negotiations and 00:10:00.009 --> 00:10:08.620 negotiations and advisement with the current city manager petition that's 00:10:08.620 --> 00:10:15.580 going around. What does that have to do with this enterprise zone? It has 00:10:15.580 --> 00:10:22.100 everything to do with it, Madam Mayor. Okay, so that was a motion to move it? Yes. 00:10:22.100 --> 00:10:27.779 Second. So a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Stacy. Any 00:10:27.779 --> 00:10:55.779 I don't know. I'm just trying to figure out what is it, why we wouldn't want an attorney, you know, on the Enterprise Zone. I know we had one complaint, but I still just want to know, is it? 00:10:55.779 --> 00:11:01.279 I don't want this to be my second. I'll respond, but I don't want it to be my second. 00:11:03.279 --> 00:11:06.360 That's up to you. Oh, okay. Then I won't. I'm good. 00:11:08.100 --> 00:11:13.319 Madam Mayor, could you repeat what the motion was? That the appointment of Steve Cox to the 00:11:14.500 --> 00:11:21.819 Enterprise Zone be moved to the COW? No, next regularly scheduled meeting. January 21st? Okay. Yes. 00:11:21.819 --> 00:11:24.769 Settlers. 00:11:24.769 --> 00:11:31.069 Okay, so if there's no further discussion on moving that, Madam Clerk, would you please 00:11:31.069 --> 00:11:35.769 take the role on moving it to the next meeting, next regularly scheduled meeting? 00:11:35.769 --> 00:11:36.769 Sellers? 00:11:36.769 --> 00:11:37.769 Aye. 00:11:37.769 --> 00:11:38.769 Klemm? 00:11:38.769 --> 00:11:39.769 No. 00:11:39.769 --> 00:11:40.769 Monroe? 00:11:40.769 --> 00:11:41.769 Aye. 00:11:41.769 --> 00:11:42.769 Simmons? 00:11:42.769 --> 00:11:43.769 Aye. 00:11:43.769 --> 00:11:44.769 Parker? 00:11:44.769 --> 00:11:45.769 No. 00:11:45.769 --> 00:11:46.769 Stacy? 00:11:46.769 --> 00:11:47.769 Aye. 00:11:47.769 --> 00:11:48.769 Shadle? 00:11:48.769 --> 00:11:49.769 No. 00:11:49.769 --> 00:11:50.769 And Sanders? 00:11:50.769 --> 00:11:51.769 Aye. 00:11:51.769 --> 00:12:01.129 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. It will be moved to the January 21st council meeting by a vote of 4 to 3. 00:12:02.889 --> 00:12:10.330 Should be 5 to 3. 5 to 3. Thank you. Okay, next is recognition of service awards. Manager Boyer. 00:12:11.769 --> 00:12:23.319 I would have to acknowledge the fire chief on this one. Yes, thank you. So it's my pleasure to 00:12:23.319 --> 00:12:26.879 to introduce firefighter paramedic, Kevin Meads. 00:12:26.879 --> 00:12:29.399 Here we're recognizing his five year anniversary 00:12:29.399 --> 00:12:30.919 with the department. 00:12:30.919 --> 00:12:32.759 He comes to us from Winnebago 00:12:32.759 --> 00:12:36.519 and his higher date was January 13th, 2020. 00:12:36.519 --> 00:12:38.279 So he's almost five years to date. 00:12:39.620 --> 00:12:44.620 Some certifications and documents that he holds 00:12:45.440 --> 00:12:49.740 in his position is basic firefighter operations, 00:12:49.740 --> 00:12:53.299 advanced firefighter technician, paramedic, 00:12:53.299 --> 00:12:55.980 fire service vehicle operator, 00:12:55.980 --> 00:12:57.840 fire service instructor one, 00:12:57.840 --> 00:12:59.940 and then several technical rescue classes 00:12:59.940 --> 00:13:04.340 consisting of structural collapse, confined space, 00:13:04.340 --> 00:13:07.500 VMO or vehicle machinery operations, 00:13:07.500 --> 00:13:11.259 and rope operations and technician level. 00:13:11.259 --> 00:13:14.539 He's currently a member of the Mavis technical rescue team, 00:13:14.539 --> 00:13:17.340 meaning he can respond anywhere within the county 00:13:17.340 --> 00:13:21.059 and also outside the county on special request through Mavis. 00:13:21.059 --> 00:13:24.360 He is also a member of the department's TEMS team, 00:13:24.360 --> 00:13:26.559 the Tactical Emergency Paramedics 00:13:26.559 --> 00:13:30.000 that also assist with the police department. 00:13:31.220 --> 00:13:33.100 So, and then lastly, he's currently working 00:13:33.100 --> 00:13:35.019 on his associate's degree in fire science 00:13:35.019 --> 00:13:37.500 through Rock Valley College. 00:13:37.500 --> 00:13:39.539 So with that, let's present Kevin 00:13:39.539 --> 00:13:52.360 with this certificate of five years and congratulations. 00:13:52.360 --> 00:13:54.799 I also wanna add that half the room here is his family. 00:13:54.799 --> 00:14:09.529 I appreciate the opportunity to work in this city. It's been an awesome experience for 00:14:09.529 --> 00:14:15.450 me. I've learned so much. I've gotten to meet the wonderful residents of the city and 00:14:15.450 --> 00:14:19.690 had a good time doing it with all my friends. Thank you so much. 00:14:19.690 --> 00:14:30.879 We'll move on to item number seven, which is the second reading of Ordnance 2025-01. 00:14:30.879 --> 00:14:37.920 This was formally Ordinance 2024-86 from last year, amending airplane hanger fees at Freeport 00:14:37.920 --> 00:14:41.440 Albertus Airport and adopting revised hanger lease form. 00:14:41.440 --> 00:14:42.839 Thank you. 00:14:42.839 --> 00:14:43.839 Manager Boyer. 00:14:43.839 --> 00:14:44.839 Thank you, Your Honor. 00:14:44.839 --> 00:14:47.519 We've gone over this at several meetings. 00:14:47.519 --> 00:14:55.700 We're requesting Council move forward with the new lease format and the new rental rates 00:14:55.700 --> 00:14:57.160 for J hanger. 00:14:57.160 --> 00:15:02.079 So staff requests approval of this at second reading. 00:15:02.079 --> 00:15:04.809 Discussion? 00:15:04.809 --> 00:15:13.180 Oldham and Stacy? 00:15:13.180 --> 00:15:15.440 I want to be sure. 00:15:15.440 --> 00:15:21.960 This is talking about 61 hangars? 00:15:21.960 --> 00:15:26.680 This is a new lease agreement, and the hanger rate adjustment 00:15:26.680 --> 00:15:27.680 is for J-hanger. 00:15:27.680 --> 00:15:31.000 So we've recommended no changes at this time, 00:15:31.000 --> 00:15:36.000 except for Jay Hanger to increase that to $800 a month. 00:15:51.139 --> 00:15:52.700 Any further discussion? 00:15:52.700 --> 00:15:53.860 Alderman Monroe. 00:15:53.860 --> 00:15:55.180 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 00:15:55.180 --> 00:15:59.899 So, City Manager Boyer, the rates for the hangers 00:15:59.899 --> 00:16:04.899 that have working water and other amenities, 00:16:08.639 --> 00:16:09.920 I would call them, I guess. 00:16:11.960 --> 00:16:19.039 Those hanger prices aren't changing? 00:16:19.039 --> 00:16:20.160 Manager Boyer. 00:16:20.160 --> 00:16:26.279 We have had the airport manager review all the hangar rates, compared them to other communities 00:16:26.279 --> 00:16:31.759 of our similar size and traffic, and she has recommended that we do not, right now our 00:16:31.759 --> 00:16:40.740 rental rates are in line with other communities of a similar size. 00:16:40.740 --> 00:16:51.660 Can you tell me who is the owner of Hangar J? 00:16:51.660 --> 00:16:53.019 The City of Freeport. 00:16:53.019 --> 00:17:06.139 I think she means Leslie. Who's renting it. There's a there's a tenant in there 00:17:06.139 --> 00:17:13.139 currently not from Freeport but recently was approved to move in there so 00:17:13.139 --> 00:17:16.099 council approved the last one I don't recall it off the top of my head. 00:17:16.099 --> 00:17:33.960 Holden Parker. Motion to approve. Oh I don't need it. Okay. If discussion is done 00:17:33.960 --> 00:18:05.339 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. And Sanders? Aye. The ordinance passes 8-0. Item number 8 is first reading of ordinance 2020-502. Could you please read this? Ordinance authorizing Northern Illinois Gas Company, doing business as NICOR Gas Company, to construct, operate, and maintain a gas distributing system in and through the City of Freeport. 00:18:05.339 --> 00:18:10.500 Manager Boyer. I think your honor about every 50 years the city has an 00:18:10.500 --> 00:18:15.380 opportunity to re-enter or renew their and their enterprise agreement with 00:18:15.380 --> 00:18:21.619 NICOR gas. This has recently come up and was negotiated essentially the same 00:18:21.619 --> 00:18:26.400 terms that we have had in the past however we've also negotiated free 00:18:26.400 --> 00:18:34.380 therms for the Freeport library. It's one of our larger gas using facilities and I 00:18:34.380 --> 00:18:38.940 I think that will save the city somewhere approximately $70,000 a year. 00:18:41.619 --> 00:18:47.049 Correction, it'll save the library $70,000. 00:18:47.049 --> 00:18:47.809 Motion to approve. 00:18:48.929 --> 00:18:49.929 Second. 00:18:49.929 --> 00:18:55.529 We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers 00:18:55.529 --> 00:18:59.029 to move Ordinance 2020-502 onto the next meeting. 00:18:59.029 --> 00:19:02.519 Is there discussion? 00:19:02.519 --> 00:19:07.480 Move on to item number nine, which is the first reading of Ordinance 2020-503. 00:19:07.480 --> 00:19:11.190 Could you please read this? 00:19:11.190 --> 00:19:15.549 This was formerly ordinance 2024-85 from last year, 00:19:15.549 --> 00:19:17.309 adopting social media policy, 00:19:17.309 --> 00:19:20.670 governing use of city-owned social media accounts. 00:19:20.670 --> 00:19:22.070 Thank you, Director Bridge. 00:19:23.630 --> 00:19:26.389 Good evening, council, good evening, mayor. 00:19:26.389 --> 00:19:30.349 We spoke about this at December's COW. 00:19:30.349 --> 00:19:34.150 Since 2017, the city has managed social media pages 00:19:34.150 --> 00:19:36.950 for city postings, information, and more. 00:19:36.950 --> 00:19:43.950 A social media policy for all staff has been in place to set guidelines for personal use 00:19:43.950 --> 00:19:47.750 but has yet to set guidelines for page administrators. 00:19:47.750 --> 00:19:53.470 In addition, public comment on city pages has been limited since 2017. 00:19:53.470 --> 00:19:57.490 In order to improve transparency and strengthen the communication pipeline between the city 00:19:57.490 --> 00:19:59.889 Residence. 00:19:59.889 --> 00:20:13.000 As the city's statement of purpose in the policy reads, the City of Freeport believes 00:20:13.000 --> 00:20:17.000 that the use of social media platforms can effectively broaden the reach of government 00:20:17.000 --> 00:20:19.859 communication to its constituents. 00:20:19.859 --> 00:20:24.220 The use of social media by the city is to convey or obtain information that is useful 00:20:24.220 --> 00:20:28.099 to, or will further the goals of this local government. 00:20:28.099 --> 00:20:33.140 The revised policy also outlines important guidelines for page administrators to ensure 00:20:33.140 --> 00:20:37.160 discourse remains informational and appropriate. 00:20:37.160 --> 00:20:42.700 This is the first reading tonight, but in the end, we recommend that the council approves 00:20:42.700 --> 00:20:43.700 this policy. 00:20:43.700 --> 00:20:44.700 Thank you. 00:20:44.700 --> 00:20:46.380 Is there a motion to move this forward? 00:20:46.380 --> 00:20:47.380 So moved. 00:20:47.380 --> 00:20:48.380 Second. 00:20:48.380 --> 00:20:51.299 We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 00:20:51.299 --> 00:20:55.500 Discussion? 00:20:55.500 --> 00:20:56.500 Alderman Sanders? 00:20:56.500 --> 00:21:06.500 Do I understand that there's no administrator at this point in time? 00:21:06.500 --> 00:21:11.700 There is an administrator for the city, an administrator for the police, an administrator 00:21:11.700 --> 00:21:18.259 for the fire and the library, and the communications director, which is myself, also administrates 00:21:18.259 --> 00:21:19.420 all pages. 00:21:19.420 --> 00:21:24.799 So who is supervising that media page? 00:21:24.799 --> 00:21:30.839 So the media page that you are probably referring to is Facebook and the administrator for the 00:21:30.839 --> 00:21:33.640 city is myself, the communications director. 00:21:33.640 --> 00:21:39.599 So you're the sole person that is managing that website? 00:21:39.599 --> 00:21:42.400 You're the sole person that is managing that website? 00:21:42.400 --> 00:21:47.160 For the most part I am the sole person, however there are other people who have access to 00:21:47.160 --> 00:21:50.720 it that in times of need are able to post. 00:21:50.720 --> 00:21:59.480 So how many administrators can you have at one time, or not at just one time, but at 00:21:59.480 --> 00:22:08.319 the council's discretion, the city's discretion to have privy information to enter into those 00:22:08.319 --> 00:22:11.960 administrative areas? 00:22:11.960 --> 00:22:19.440 I don't think there is a limit that Facebook or Metta puts on their site. 00:22:19.440 --> 00:22:28.960 however within this policy the branch that we are adopting is city manager 00:22:28.960 --> 00:22:35.039 oversees the administrators so ultimately discretion discretion falls 00:22:35.039 --> 00:22:40.639 on city manager city manager but that does not mean the city manager posts nor 00:22:40.639 --> 00:22:46.360 comments on anything okay I just want to see what how is 00:22:46.360 --> 00:22:58.400 is operated and the mission and goals of the website and what is this protocol? I'd like 00:22:58.400 --> 00:23:05.160 to see that because we all need to see the protocol of that website and how it's going 00:23:05.160 --> 00:23:06.160 to be governed. 00:23:06.160 --> 00:23:10.039 And that's an excellent point that you make and that is exactly what this policy does. 00:23:10.039 --> 00:23:14.579 Okay. All right. Thank you. 00:23:14.579 --> 00:23:15.579 Any further discussion? 00:23:15.579 --> 00:23:45.579 Monroe. Thank you, madam mayor. This is a topic that's come up quite a bit across the country. The Supreme Court, many of you may or may not know, recently ruled on this back in 2024. And it actually would put the city, in my opinion, at greater risk of lawsuit. Social media itself has tools that have been designed across all platforms to report posts that go against community standards. 00:23:45.579 --> 00:24:15.579 and I don't believe in a lot of ways this is creating any transparency in a lot of ways it's creating a lack of transparency because it allows city officials and staff to block comments that they find divisive based on their viewpoints it could be religious it could be social it could be whatever it might be but in a general scheme of the First Amendment we're given those rights to speak out 00:24:15.579 --> 00:24:33.579 and the problem is this may be well intentioned but in a lot of ways this is the rabbit hole that once you open it doesn't get applied appropriately and with so many people having access to this, the citizens don't know who's blocking them. 00:24:33.579 --> 00:24:38.579 It could be the city manager who disagrees with somebody who doesn't like what he's doing with the roads. 00:24:38.579 --> 00:24:39.579 Fowler. 00:24:39.579 --> 00:24:46.200 That doesn't mean what they posted was wrong or incorrect or inflammatory or anything else. 00:24:46.200 --> 00:24:51.180 It just means that they spoke out and they voiced their opinion in a community forum. 00:24:51.180 --> 00:24:57.619 And I think it's a very, very dangerous path to go down to allow any member of the city 00:24:57.619 --> 00:25:03.980 staff to block and, you know, I know the police department does it regularly. 00:25:03.980 --> 00:25:05.660 They turn off posts. 00:25:05.660 --> 00:25:07.160 They turn off things. 00:25:07.160 --> 00:25:14.079 and people would even make comments encouraging them and saying they've done a great job. 00:25:14.079 --> 00:25:21.360 But as citizens, we've got a responsibility as well, but I think as all of us here on 00:25:21.360 --> 00:25:26.960 this council and as staff have a responsibility to the citizens to protect their right to 00:25:26.960 --> 00:25:29.400 speak out in the public forum. 00:25:29.400 --> 00:25:34.960 And I will say this, the government could completely change and the other party is in 00:25:34.960 --> 00:25:44.039 Fowler, and the ability to block posts becomes something that now the people that supported 00:25:44.039 --> 00:25:45.759 it would be against. 00:25:45.759 --> 00:25:50.880 And I think it's a very dangerous path to take when you start messing with First Amendment 00:25:50.880 --> 00:25:55.240 because it is really our ability as citizens to speak out. 00:25:55.240 --> 00:26:03.039 And we've seen in the last, today as a matter of fact, the city officials trying to block 00:26:03.039 --> 00:26:04.759 people from speaking out. 00:26:04.759 --> 00:26:09.200 and I think that this just gives another avenue for that to happen. 00:26:09.200 --> 00:26:12.680 And I really believe strongly this should not go through. 00:26:12.680 --> 00:26:18.440 I hope the citizens will call and speak up and say that they feel it shouldn't go through. 00:26:18.440 --> 00:26:22.519 But our First Amendment here in the United States is the foundation for what all of our 00:26:22.519 --> 00:26:24.220 society is built on. 00:26:24.220 --> 00:26:28.200 And if we don't have the ability to speak out and we have a few people who are trying 00:26:28.200 --> 00:26:33.440 to control that speech from the government level, that is a horrible, horrible thing. 00:26:33.440 --> 00:27:03.440 Director Bridge Alderman Monroe I understand your perspective because we have heard it within City Hall that hey we need to be prepared to not use too much of our opinion right so I totally understand your perspective and I won't say that you are entirely wrong however this policy does lay out really good guidance 00:27:03.440 --> 00:27:04.440 Huffines. 00:27:04.440 --> 00:27:17.799 We have to understand that posts that attack a person are not going to be blocked because 00:27:17.799 --> 00:27:20.220 of this policy. 00:27:20.220 --> 00:27:22.860 We don't have a policy right now. 00:27:22.860 --> 00:27:24.920 So those comments can get blocked. 00:27:24.920 --> 00:27:29.360 So technically we are not having good transparency right now. 00:27:29.360 --> 00:27:32.680 So I understand your perspective. 00:27:32.680 --> 00:27:40.680 I still would say let's see what this policy can do for us because I know what goes on 00:27:40.680 --> 00:27:41.680 at City Hall. 00:27:41.680 --> 00:27:46.680 We are trying our best to represent the residents of Freeport. 00:27:46.680 --> 00:27:51.160 Right now we're not doing that as well as we can be doing if we have this policy in 00:27:51.160 --> 00:27:52.160 place. 00:27:52.160 --> 00:27:53.160 Alderman Sanders. 00:27:53.160 --> 00:28:14.110 Yeah, I have an understanding what the Alderman Monroe is saying and I also feel there's not 00:28:14.110 --> 00:28:25.150 enough detail as he is explaining for transparency and I think before we initiate any movement 00:28:25.150 --> 00:28:35.150 on this particular ordinance that we do a due diligence of evaluation of this particular 00:28:35.150 --> 00:28:50.349 ordinance, because you're giving some form of speculation, your perspective and opinion. 00:28:50.349 --> 00:28:56.349 We need to see things that you are actually speaking on in writing. 00:28:56.349 --> 00:29:02.789 How we look at it from a different viewpoint when it's in writing and then we can probably 00:29:02.789 --> 00:29:10.789 move forward because not only that you're setting up a policy, but you got to remember 00:29:10.789 --> 00:29:18.789 the public, the council, the administrative staff of this city hall also have input on 00:29:18.789 --> 00:29:21.789 and some of the other members of the Board of Governors. 00:29:21.789 --> 00:29:23.789 I don't want certain things in guidelines. 00:29:23.789 --> 00:29:27.789 So I don't want everything to be narrowed from your perspective 00:29:27.789 --> 00:29:30.789 and how things should be written and how things should go. 00:29:30.789 --> 00:29:33.789 So what we're saying is we need more of a dialogue 00:29:33.789 --> 00:29:37.789 about how you plan to do this operation 00:29:37.789 --> 00:29:41.789 and what we can insert with you 00:29:41.789 --> 00:29:47.789 or not go forward with certain things that you're referring to. 00:29:47.789 --> 00:29:55.889 We need to be able to talk on everything even with comments from the general public we need to be able to bring those 00:29:55.889 --> 00:29:59.559 We need to be able to bring those things forth. 00:29:59.559 --> 00:30:01.440 I understand the concerns. 00:30:01.440 --> 00:30:05.759 There is a big concern here. 00:30:05.759 --> 00:30:11.440 And let us move cautiously with all of that. 00:30:11.440 --> 00:30:16.519 Just in case you weren't aware, in your packet there's seven pages in writing on this policy. 00:30:16.519 --> 00:30:18.200 There's seven pages. 00:30:18.200 --> 00:30:20.579 Director Bridge. 00:30:20.579 --> 00:30:23.940 So I'll say a couple things. 00:30:23.940 --> 00:30:26.859 Number one, we did talk about this at the Committee of the Whole. 00:30:26.859 --> 00:30:29.119 There was no discussion. 00:30:29.119 --> 00:30:31.380 There was nothing from council members. 00:30:31.380 --> 00:30:36.500 So if there had been something from council members, and that is not to blame anyone on 00:30:36.500 --> 00:30:43.299 this floor, but I wish that some discussion would come, and that is why this is a first 00:30:43.299 --> 00:30:46.859 reading so that we can have those kinds of talks. 00:30:46.859 --> 00:30:47.859 Miller. 00:30:47.859 --> 00:30:53.900 Let me read from section three of the social media policy in case someone doesn't have 00:30:53.900 --> 00:30:56.259 it in front of them. 00:30:56.259 --> 00:30:59.640 Social media platforms not only provide the government with a communications venue but 00:30:59.640 --> 00:31:04.279 often allow for public comment to be posted to the city's sites. 00:31:04.279 --> 00:31:09.240 Any comment made by a member of the public as a social media user is that user's opinion 00:31:09.240 --> 00:31:10.700 only. 00:31:10.700 --> 00:31:14.819 Publication of the comment does not imply endorsement or agreement by the government 00:31:14.819 --> 00:31:17.920 nor reflect the opinions or policies of the government. 00:31:17.920 --> 00:31:20.359 The following enumerated list of content 00:31:20.359 --> 00:31:23.700 may not be permitted on the city's social media platforms 00:31:23.700 --> 00:31:27.859 and such content is subject to removal 00:31:27.859 --> 00:31:30.259 and or restriction by the administrator. 00:31:30.259 --> 00:31:33.059 Content that promotes discrimination, 00:31:33.059 --> 00:31:35.160 violates a legal ownership interest 00:31:35.160 --> 00:31:38.400 such as a copyright or trademark, 00:31:38.400 --> 00:31:40.640 threatens any person or organization, 00:31:41.579 --> 00:31:44.019 includes personally identifiable information 00:31:44.019 --> 00:31:45.019 and others. 00:31:45.019 --> 00:31:54.799 This includes any public or state or local law violation, is obscene, sexual or pornographic 00:31:54.799 --> 00:32:00.359 in content and or language, promotes commercial activities not related to government business, 00:32:00.359 --> 00:32:07.539 is spam or links to malware or viruses, or discloses confidential government information, 00:32:07.539 --> 00:32:12.039 sensitive information or personal information relating to government officials and employees 00:32:12.039 --> 00:32:13.799 or members of the public. 00:32:13.799 --> 00:32:22.839 And lastly, before I turn it back over, if you are in City Hall, walking alongside me, 00:32:22.839 --> 00:32:27.759 you know what kind of person I am, and I am not one who makes decisions by myself. 00:32:27.759 --> 00:32:32.759 Though the communications department is a one-person thing, I do not make decisions 00:32:32.759 --> 00:32:34.240 by myself. 00:32:34.240 --> 00:32:37.680 The city manager does not make decisions by himself. 00:32:37.680 --> 00:32:40.180 He and I do not make decisions by ourselves. 00:32:40.180 --> 00:32:46.180 It is a team effort here and that is why this is on the floor before you. 00:32:46.180 --> 00:32:48.180 Manager Boyer, did you want to say something? 00:32:48.180 --> 00:32:50.180 No, I'm good. 00:32:50.180 --> 00:32:52.180 Any further discussion? Alderman Monroe. 00:32:52.180 --> 00:32:56.180 Thank you, Madam Mayor. Thank you for reading that, Director. 00:32:56.180 --> 00:33:00.180 You know, you bring up a couple of really good points. 00:33:00.180 --> 00:33:04.180 I'm going to go through them. Promotes discrimination. Define discrimination for me. 00:33:04.180 --> 00:33:06.180 That's a gray area, Mr. 00:33:06.180 --> 00:33:08.180 Thank you. Exactly. 00:33:08.180 --> 00:33:09.180 Miller. 00:33:09.180 --> 00:33:15.319 Number six, I think we all know what obscene sexual and pornographic content is, but explain 00:33:15.319 --> 00:33:17.460 to me what that language is. 00:33:17.460 --> 00:33:19.220 That's a gray area, Mr. Monroe. 00:33:19.220 --> 00:33:20.220 Thank you. 00:33:20.220 --> 00:33:23.940 Once again, here we are going down a rabbit hole. 00:33:23.940 --> 00:33:28.420 What you consider to be obscene, what the city manager or the mayor considers obscene, 00:33:28.420 --> 00:33:31.220 the Supreme Court says is free speech. 00:33:31.220 --> 00:33:37.500 And those are things that you're taking into your powers as a government official and applying 00:33:37.500 --> 00:33:39.500 Gershman, and so on, and they're all our friends. 00:33:40.579 --> 00:33:42.579 And so I think the city is trying to 00:33:43.680 --> 00:33:46.180 make sure that we're providing those to individuals in the 00:33:46.180 --> 00:33:49.180 community. That limits the communication and the ability of 00:33:49.180 --> 00:33:53.680 those citizens to stand up and voice their opinions about how 00:33:53.680 --> 00:33:55.680 the city is doing. And this is where it comes. 00:33:58.019 --> 00:34:00.019 There was recently, within the last six months, a gentleman who 00:34:01.619 --> 00:34:03.619 walked into a city council meeting, started swearing, much 00:34:03.619 --> 00:34:05.619 like my buddy beside me here did it 00:34:07.500 --> 00:34:10.159 and a small group of people that I met in the room that I've 00:34:10.159 --> 00:34:12.320 been working with are a couple of the biggest 00:34:12.320 --> 00:34:14.320 issues that have come up. 00:34:15.500 --> 00:34:17.500 I've seen people say, I've been told that it's not allowed. 00:34:18.519 --> 00:34:20.519 Well, guess what happened two weeks later? 00:34:21.519 --> 00:34:22.480 His lawyer and he came back to the room and they served them 00:34:22.480 --> 00:34:24.480 papers. 00:34:25.800 --> 00:34:27.800 The city paid $50,000 for violating their constitutional 00:34:27.820 --> 00:34:29.820 rights. This is where this is going. 00:34:32.739 --> 00:34:34.739 And the problem is, you want me to trust you. 00:34:34.739 --> 00:34:35.739 Huffines. 00:34:35.739 --> 00:34:41.820 And all of a sudden, now you're coming here in front of this forum, the people that represent 00:34:41.820 --> 00:34:46.300 the citizens of Freeport, and you want to take away those people's rights to speak. 00:34:46.300 --> 00:34:50.699 And that is a major problem anywhere in the United States of America. 00:34:50.699 --> 00:34:54.250 Director Bridge? 00:34:54.250 --> 00:34:57.050 Only thing I'll say to that is this is not taking away. 00:34:57.050 --> 00:34:58.849 We are taking away right now. 00:34:58.849 --> 00:35:05.320 This is adding to what they can say. 00:35:05.320 --> 00:35:09.039 If there's no further discussion, move on to the next item. 00:35:09.039 --> 00:35:22.720 Resolution approving memorandum of understanding with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for 00:35:22.720 --> 00:35:24.920 response to calls for service. 00:35:24.920 --> 00:35:25.920 Thank you. 00:35:25.920 --> 00:35:26.920 Chief Shenberger. 00:35:26.920 --> 00:35:33.720 The United States Department of Veterans Affairs operates facility within the City of Freeport 00:35:33.720 --> 00:35:36.800 at 750 South Kiwanis Drive. 00:35:36.800 --> 00:35:41.679 The VA is requesting the City of Freeport to enter an MOU regarding the response to calls 00:35:41.679 --> 00:35:44.239 for service at the VA. 00:35:44.239 --> 00:35:49.199 This MOU will be effective upon signature and the date will be reviewed every three 00:35:49.199 --> 00:35:52.150 years. 00:35:52.150 --> 00:35:53.630 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:35:53.630 --> 00:35:54.630 So moved. 00:35:54.630 --> 00:35:55.630 Second. 00:35:55.630 --> 00:36:00.909 We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 00:36:00.909 --> 00:36:05.309 Discussion on the resolution? 00:36:05.309 --> 00:36:07.429 Seeing none, Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? 00:36:07.429 --> 00:36:08.429 Sellers? 00:36:08.429 --> 00:36:09.429 Aye. 00:36:09.429 --> 00:36:10.429 Klemm? 00:36:10.429 --> 00:36:40.429 Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders is currently absent. The resolution is adopted 7-0. Item number 12 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-03. Could you please read this? Resolution approving invoice from Stevers Ford for upfitting for three new squad vehicles. Thank you. Chief Shenberger? The Freeport Police Department is currently in need of purchasing and replacing three squad cars. The squad cars will be 00:36:40.429 --> 00:36:47.590 Replace F2, which is a 2021 Dodge Durango with about 75,000 miles. F5, a 2021 Dodge 00:36:47.590 --> 00:36:55.029 Durango with about 90,000 miles. And F6, a 2022 Ford Explorer with 75,000 miles. All 00:36:55.029 --> 00:36:59.869 three squad cars are currently utilized by the Patrol Division. 00:36:59.869 --> 00:37:05.510 On December 16th, 2024, the Council approved the squad bid submitted by Stivers Ford in 00:37:05.510 --> 00:37:14.849 and Waukee, Iowa at $48,190 for each for three 2025 Ford Explorer police interceptors 00:37:14.849 --> 00:37:25.750 for a total of $144,570, minus $19,000 to trade in the four older squad cars. 00:37:25.750 --> 00:37:32.470 The total cost to purchase the three new squad cars will be $125,570. 00:37:32.470 --> 00:37:39.510 During subsequent conversations with Stivers Ford, salesmen agreed to discount squad cars 00:37:39.510 --> 00:37:48.029 by $500 each, which ended up being a total of $124,070, which includes the $19,000 deduction 00:37:48.029 --> 00:37:50.230 for trade-ins. 00:37:50.230 --> 00:37:54.550 Stivers Ford also submitted a bid to upfit the three marked squad cars. 00:37:54.550 --> 00:37:59.949 Stivers Ford upfitted the squad cars purchased by the police department in 2024, and the 00:37:59.949 --> 00:38:02.750 Clark performed was very efficient and high quality. 00:38:02.750 --> 00:38:12.349 The cost to upfit the two Ford Explorers from Dodge Durangos will be $8,375 each. 00:38:12.349 --> 00:38:18.670 The cost to upfit the third Ford Explorer police interceptor will be $7,372. 00:38:18.670 --> 00:38:27.429 So the total cost to upfit all three vehicles will be $148,192. 00:38:27.429 --> 00:38:34.389 The funding for the three new squad cars and upfitting is provided in the fiscal year 2025 00:38:34.389 --> 00:38:40.670 Police Department Capital Budget 331-302-7005. 00:38:40.670 --> 00:38:41.670 Thank you. 00:38:41.670 --> 00:38:42.670 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:38:42.670 --> 00:38:43.670 Motion to adopt, Mayor. 00:38:43.670 --> 00:38:44.670 Second. 00:38:44.670 --> 00:38:49.230 We have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Parker. 00:38:49.230 --> 00:38:50.230 Discussion on the resolution? 00:38:50.230 --> 00:38:53.210 Seeing none. 00:38:53.210 --> 00:38:54.210 Oh, I'm sorry. 00:38:54.210 --> 00:38:55.210 Alderman Stacey. 00:38:55.210 --> 00:38:56.210 Yes. 00:38:56.210 --> 00:39:03.210 and it maybe was spoken of the first time. 00:39:03.210 --> 00:39:06.210 I just do not remember. 00:39:06.210 --> 00:39:13.210 And I would just like to know why did we, why Iowa? 00:39:13.210 --> 00:39:22.210 Why not our Ford dealership right here in good old Freeport? 00:39:22.210 --> 00:39:28.610 Couldn't we get the discounts and all the extra right here? You know? 00:39:30.610 --> 00:39:36.690 I would agree with that, but we did post the bid and we had only one full response and that was 00:39:36.690 --> 00:39:42.769 from Stivers in Iowa and we had one incomplete response which was out of Detroit, Michigan. 00:39:47.510 --> 00:39:53.670 Thank you, Madam Mayor. Chief, there are only a few dealerships within say 400 miles up here that 00:39:53.670 --> 00:39:55.559 Say, 400 miles up here that sell these type of vehicles. 00:39:55.559 --> 00:39:57.480 Is that true or not? 00:39:57.480 --> 00:40:01.280 Well, I mean, there's probably more dealerships. 00:40:01.280 --> 00:40:01.760 I don't know. 00:40:01.760 --> 00:40:04.920 I mean, you can, you know, we've bought them locally before. 00:40:04.920 --> 00:40:07.280 But like I said, we posted the bid, 00:40:07.280 --> 00:40:14.289 and we only had one complete response, so. 00:40:14.289 --> 00:40:16.010 There's no further discussion. 00:40:16.010 --> 00:40:18.849 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:40:18.849 --> 00:40:19.650 Sellers? 00:40:19.650 --> 00:40:20.210 Aye. 00:40:20.210 --> 00:40:20.809 Klemm? 00:40:20.809 --> 00:40:21.289 Aye. 00:40:21.289 --> 00:40:21.929 Monroe? 00:40:21.929 --> 00:40:22.409 Aye. 00:40:22.409 --> 00:40:23.730 Simmons? 00:40:23.730 --> 00:40:24.250 Aye. 00:40:24.250 --> 00:40:24.849 Parker? 00:40:24.849 --> 00:40:25.349 Aye. 00:40:25.349 --> 00:40:26.250 Stacy? 00:40:26.250 --> 00:40:33.769 Shadle and Sanders. The resolution is adopted 8 to 0. Item number 13 is the 00:40:33.769 --> 00:40:38.130 adoption of resolution 2025-04. Could you please read this? Resolution approving 00:40:38.130 --> 00:40:41.809 memorandum of understanding with Fraternal Order of Police regarding 00:40:41.809 --> 00:40:50.329 post-employment health plan or PEP. Thank you. Manager Boyer. Madam Mayor. Chief. 00:40:50.329 --> 00:40:56.230 Sure. So before we get into this memo, I just want to clarify something about 00:40:56.230 --> 00:40:57.469 that was brought up. 00:40:57.469 --> 00:40:59.510 This is by no means this is not 00:40:59.510 --> 00:41:01.590 post-employment health insurance. 00:41:01.590 --> 00:41:04.909 Once you separate, you don't have health insurance 00:41:04.909 --> 00:41:07.710 unless you participate in the COBRA. 00:41:07.710 --> 00:41:10.190 So this is just a savings account, 00:41:10.190 --> 00:41:14.070 a medical savings account that the city was contributing to. 00:41:14.070 --> 00:41:16.710 But during the recent negotiations with the FOP, 00:41:16.710 --> 00:41:18.909 they got rid of the PEP plan. 00:41:18.909 --> 00:41:23.909 So this is to consider three people who had this benefit 00:41:23.909 --> 00:41:30.309 throughout their entire career and then during discussions with the union it was 00:41:30.309 --> 00:41:36.789 suggested that they would be allowed to have that during this next contract. So, 00:41:36.789 --> 00:41:41.269 in a prior version of the collective bargaining agreement between the City of 00:41:41.269 --> 00:41:46.710 Freeport and the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, employees 00:41:46.710 --> 00:41:51.429 were entitled to a post-employment health plan, a PEP plan, to help fund 00:41:51.429 --> 00:41:53.989 and health insurance costs post-employment. 00:41:53.989 --> 00:41:58.349 The current CBA between the city and IL FOPLC 00:41:58.349 --> 00:42:00.389 no longer includes this benefit. 00:42:00.389 --> 00:42:03.630 At the time the current CBA was negotiated, 00:42:03.630 --> 00:42:06.510 three employees either reached or will reach 00:42:06.510 --> 00:42:08.789 20 years of service during the current agreement 00:42:08.789 --> 00:42:11.250 qualifying them for the at-retirement portion 00:42:11.250 --> 00:42:13.909 of the previous PEP provisions. 00:42:13.909 --> 00:42:16.610 Patrolman Brandy Hilby, she reached 25 years of service 00:42:16.610 --> 00:42:19.469 in October of 2024. 00:42:19.469 --> 00:42:24.670 Patrolman Eric Diemer will reach 20 years of service in September of 2025, and Patrolman 00:42:24.670 --> 00:42:29.630 Tony Bradbury will reach 20 years of service in October of 2027. 00:42:29.630 --> 00:42:37.469 In recognition of the years of service, the officers and as part of the agreement reach 00:42:37.469 --> 00:42:49.190 with the ILFOPLC, the city desires to extend the specific at-retire provisions from the 00:42:49.190 --> 00:42:54.190 and former, Section 11.7 to these three officers. 00:42:54.190 --> 00:42:56.590 So if one of these three officers chooses to retire 00:42:56.590 --> 00:43:01.230 during the current ILFOPLCCBA, 00:43:01.230 --> 00:43:03.010 the following language will be applicable 00:43:03.010 --> 00:43:05.630 and honored at the time of retirement. 00:43:05.630 --> 00:43:08.050 Effective upon the retirement of an officer 00:43:08.050 --> 00:43:11.210 with 20 or more years of employment with the city, 00:43:11.210 --> 00:43:13.210 the city shall contribute to the employee's 00:43:13.210 --> 00:43:15.829 post-employment health plan, 00:43:15.829 --> 00:43:18.809 a healthcare premium sub-account, 00:43:18.809 --> 00:43:21.889 and amount equal to $4 for every hour 00:43:21.889 --> 00:43:23.969 unused sick time accumulated 00:43:23.969 --> 00:43:25.769 during the employees tenure service 00:43:25.769 --> 00:43:33.889 up to a maximum of $5,556. 00:43:33.889 --> 00:43:35.690 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:43:35.690 --> 00:43:36.530 So moved. 00:43:37.449 --> 00:43:39.170 A motion made by Alderman Klemm, 00:43:39.170 --> 00:43:40.829 seconded by Alderman Parker. 00:43:41.690 --> 00:43:44.250 Any discussion on the adoption? 00:43:44.250 --> 00:43:45.150 Alderman Stacey. 00:43:46.210 --> 00:43:53.099 Are you saying that these three, 00:43:54.380 --> 00:43:55.380 McEvoy. 00:43:55.380 --> 00:44:08.699 And the city was contributing to the PEP plans. 00:44:08.699 --> 00:44:13.500 That was something that was given up during the negotiations if you had 10 years or under 00:44:13.500 --> 00:44:19.659 the city was contributing 1% of the salary per year to this plan. 00:44:19.659 --> 00:44:23.779 And if you had more than 10 years and the city was contributing 1.5%. 00:44:23.779 --> 00:44:29.199 So that has been given up, the accounts are still there, whatever the officers were able 00:44:29.199 --> 00:44:35.300 to accumulate throughout their tenure here, it's just an extension to these three who 00:44:35.300 --> 00:44:42.279 could possibly reach the age of retirement during this current contract. 00:44:42.279 --> 00:44:51.690 Because it was something that was afforded to them or offered to them up until this point. 00:44:51.690 --> 00:44:52.690 Any other discussion? 00:44:52.690 --> 00:45:17.690 So just to be clear, theoretically, there's an amount of cash in this amount in this these accounts already that's accumulated so they could already be at the $5,556 or no, no, I mean, yeah, they, they would have accounts with money in that the city has contributed to, you know, during the time they worked here up until this point. 00:45:17.690 --> 00:45:36.690 That's just the maximum amount. So if they have the maximum amount of sick time and they decide to leave next year, then the city would pay $4 an hour, which would be a max out of $5,556 that would go into that account. 00:45:36.690 --> 00:45:48.050 So if they had 500 hours of sick time, it would be significantly less. 00:45:48.050 --> 00:46:12.279 What you have said tonight has given me more insight and I'm using my last question so 00:46:12.279 --> 00:46:24.199 I would like to make a motion that we move this to the COW so that we can have a greater 00:46:24.199 --> 00:46:33.579 understanding and more discussion on this matter because I, if they're invested and 00:46:33.579 --> 00:46:41.579 have been invested, then just maybe they should be acknowledged. But to add something back 00:46:41.579 --> 00:46:52.070 I second to a contract that was missed. No, I'm not for that. But according to what you're 00:46:52.070 --> 00:46:56.489 saying, that's not what's happening. Am I correct? 00:46:56.489 --> 00:47:03.050 This was brought up during the negotiations. It's just not in the contract. 00:47:03.050 --> 00:47:09.739 I make a motion that we move this to the COW for greater discussion. 00:47:09.739 --> 00:47:10.739 Is there a second? 00:47:10.739 --> 00:47:13.739 Yeah, I'll second. 00:47:13.739 --> 00:47:21.470 Okay, so what's on the floor before you is a motion to move this to the COW, which should be next week. 00:47:22.150 --> 00:47:24.289 Is there any discussion on the movement? 00:47:25.389 --> 00:47:28.590 Madam Clerk, please take the role on the, I'm, yes. 00:47:29.429 --> 00:47:31.909 So are we just trying to get information on 00:47:32.590 --> 00:47:38.889 moving it to the COW to get more information on understanding why just these three are getting 00:47:40.309 --> 00:47:42.309 this or 00:47:42.829 --> 00:47:44.829 are we moving it to... 00:47:44.829 --> 00:47:45.829 Schoenberg. 00:47:45.829 --> 00:47:50.050 No, it only pertains to these three, to my understanding. 00:47:50.050 --> 00:47:51.849 It only pertains to these three. 00:47:51.849 --> 00:47:56.250 Okay, so what are we, I just want to know what am I going to be looking for? 00:47:56.250 --> 00:48:01.170 What questions should I ask because I don't understand what else we need to... 00:48:01.170 --> 00:48:02.170 I don't know. 00:48:02.170 --> 00:48:04.690 You might have to talk to Chief Schoenberger and get that. 00:48:04.690 --> 00:48:06.409 But I'm saying I'm okay with it. 00:48:06.409 --> 00:48:13.130 That's why I'm saying I just want to understand the reasoning for continuing the conversation 00:48:13.130 --> 00:48:14.130 on it. 00:48:14.130 --> 00:48:30.650 I don't think any of these officers are retiring in the next two weeks, so the delay I don't 00:48:30.650 --> 00:48:34.529 think is a huge deal from that standpoint. 00:48:34.529 --> 00:48:36.130 I've got a few questions myself. 00:48:36.130 --> 00:48:41.889 I'd like to know how much is in those accounts financially, how much that means, and I had 00:48:41.889 --> 00:48:45.050 and I had asked that question before this meeting, but never heard back. 00:48:45.050 --> 00:48:48.889 So I'd at least like to understand that. 00:48:48.889 --> 00:48:53.130 I mean, we're probably talking a few hundred bucks to a thousand bucks maybe each, but 00:48:53.130 --> 00:48:54.650 I mean, it's just a thought. 00:48:54.650 --> 00:48:55.650 Okay. 00:48:55.650 --> 00:48:57.650 Director Richter, did you have an answer on that? 00:48:57.650 --> 00:48:58.650 I do. 00:48:58.650 --> 00:49:01.650 Oh, perfect. 00:49:01.650 --> 00:49:11.739 So PEP is something that currently all employees get, but it's been, well, with police it 00:49:11.739 --> 00:49:17.659 has been negotiated out but it is up until 10 years until you work 10 years 00:49:17.659 --> 00:49:25.900 you get 1% of your wage so every payroll we calculate 1% of your base wage it 00:49:25.900 --> 00:49:32.980 doesn't apply to overtime it's just your base wage goes into an account so you 00:49:32.980 --> 00:49:37.820 know for an average employee you know it might just be $15 a paycheck but if 00:49:37.820 --> 00:49:45.900 If you're here for 20 years, if you're here for 30 years, yes, it is substantial. 00:49:45.900 --> 00:49:51.360 And when I say substantial, you know, it could be $30,000 or something. 00:49:51.360 --> 00:49:52.360 But you can't... 00:49:52.360 --> 00:49:54.840 Settlers, or something. But you can't use these funds until you separate from the city 00:49:54.840 --> 00:50:05.840 of Freeport and they are for medical expenses is the purpose of the funds. So yes, they 00:50:05.840 --> 00:50:12.840 add up, you have to be here a while. Chief? Yeah, and just, and I'm sure this is already 00:50:12.840 --> 00:50:19.880 clear, I know people listening to me try to fumble through this. So the only payout is 00:50:19.880 --> 00:50:25.699 is for let's say they retire, someone retires tomorrow and they have 500 hours of sick time. 00:50:25.699 --> 00:50:33.760 The only payout is $4 an hour for the sick time. So that's what it is. It's not to continue 00:50:33.760 --> 00:50:39.530 to contribute to it. It's just to pay out for the sick time. That's all. 00:50:39.530 --> 00:50:41.929 Alderman Klemm. 00:50:41.929 --> 00:50:47.289 This would probably be for the chief or Michelle. So basically this is similar to health savings 00:50:47.289 --> 00:50:48.289 account. 00:50:48.289 --> 00:50:49.289 Similar, yeah. 00:50:49.289 --> 00:50:51.570 Thank you. 00:50:51.570 --> 00:51:02.159 Thank you. Okay, so before you is the motion to move this to the next cow next week. Madam Clerk, 00:51:02.159 --> 00:51:10.559 would you please take the roll on moving it to the cow? Sellers? No. Klemm? No. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? 00:51:10.559 --> 00:51:21.199 Aye. Parker? No. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? No. And Sanders? Aye. I can't believe, I can't believe this man. 00:51:21.199 --> 00:51:24.480 We are tied again, four to four, Mayor. 00:51:24.480 --> 00:51:27.119 I'm not sure what more is going to be learned, 00:51:27.119 --> 00:51:28.679 but if you want to have more understanding, 00:51:28.679 --> 00:51:30.460 then let's move it to the cow. 00:51:31.639 --> 00:51:35.280 Motion passes, five to four to move item 13 to the cow. 00:51:38.760 --> 00:51:41.960 Item number 14, could you please read this? 00:51:43.800 --> 00:51:46.840 Discussion and possible action to install a streetlight 00:51:46.840 --> 00:51:50.199 at the intersection of Iroquois Street and State Avenue. 00:51:50.199 --> 00:51:52.800 Alderman, Stacy, and Simmons. 00:51:52.800 --> 00:52:01.230 Yes, I am asking the city of Freeport 00:52:01.230 --> 00:52:10.989 to put a stoplight, I'm sorry, a light at State and Iroquois. 00:52:10.989 --> 00:52:14.969 This is where a young man was murdered. 00:52:14.969 --> 00:52:19.969 and it's Shalom Park or picnic area. 00:52:22.449 --> 00:52:25.289 And it's pitch black. 00:52:25.289 --> 00:52:27.730 Yes. 00:52:27.730 --> 00:52:32.730 And you know, we say we wanna make a difference 00:52:35.460 --> 00:52:37.260 in these neighborhoods. 00:52:38.460 --> 00:52:43.460 We want people to be safe and be better and do better. 00:52:43.460 --> 00:52:49.940 Miller, if something goes down at that spot tonight, there's no way you'll even be able 00:52:49.940 --> 00:52:59.440 to tell if they're white or black, because the area is dark. 00:52:59.440 --> 00:53:06.260 And so I am asking the city, we done marched over this, we done had gatherings over this, 00:53:06.260 --> 00:53:16.219 We don't have church outside on the lawn for this, so I'm asking the city to move forward 00:53:16.219 --> 00:53:20.900 in lightening that area. 00:53:20.900 --> 00:53:30.760 I don't care if it's a street light, I don't care if it's a private light just over the 00:53:30.760 --> 00:53:42.159 Shalom Park area but we need to change that dilemma so that it doesn't happen 00:53:42.159 --> 00:53:56.130 again and we need light on that corner. Alderman Shadle. There's a street light on 00:53:56.130 --> 00:54:05.090 Warner there on the south east corner there's a pole it's got a street light on 00:54:05.090 --> 00:54:15.360 Alderman Shadle have you driven tonight okay was it dark outside it had not 00:54:15.360 --> 00:54:22.039 become lit yet okay so when you leave here tonight I'm gonna ask you to please 00:54:22.039 --> 00:54:31.720 Please drive through to Iroquois, all the way up to State, and you will see exactly 00:54:31.720 --> 00:54:34.320 what I'm speaking of. 00:54:34.320 --> 00:54:36.440 It's pitch black. 00:54:36.440 --> 00:54:46.000 Yes, there is a street light across the street, but it's heading toward the Iroquois way, 00:54:46.000 --> 00:54:53.670 not the State way. 00:54:53.670 --> 00:54:58.869 Boyer. Is there any way we can put a brighter light in that spot that's that Alderman Shadle's talking about? 00:54:59.989 --> 00:55:05.909 I could go by there tonight and have a look and yes we can put a brighter light on the existing pole. 00:55:07.029 --> 00:55:12.070 I'm sure Mr. Galrapp would be helpful with us on that one so yeah I'm sure we can make that happen. 00:55:13.909 --> 00:55:21.429 Alderman Sellers. I drive that way all the time but and I do know there is a light but I think 00:55:21.429 --> 00:55:42.429 I think the problem is not really the light. I think that the trees around there need to be cut back a lot, because those trees cover that light, because that's the way I go all the time when I'm leaving my family home, and I go there all the time, but it's the trees that need to be cut back because they are too thick around that light. 00:55:42.429 --> 00:55:48.429 Okay, Director Duckman, what are the chances of that too happening? 00:55:48.429 --> 00:55:51.269 of trimming back those trees? 00:55:51.269 --> 00:55:52.110 Yes. 00:55:52.110 --> 00:55:54.789 I'm sure we can ask Pat to cut some trees, right? 00:55:54.789 --> 00:55:57.110 All right. 00:55:57.110 --> 00:55:59.150 Alderman Sanders. 00:55:59.150 --> 00:56:02.829 Yeah, my concern is it's not the one light that is not 00:56:02.829 --> 00:56:06.029 illuminating that whole block. 00:56:06.029 --> 00:56:09.349 That's what we're referring to as the reason why you're 00:56:09.349 --> 00:56:11.389 the request to push trees back. 00:56:11.389 --> 00:56:15.029 Even if you cut the trees down or cut them back, 00:56:15.029 --> 00:56:17.029 it's not going to illuminate that whole block, 00:56:17.029 --> 00:56:47.029 I will say that as I circle through the Fifth Ward, 00:56:47.029 --> 00:57:06.599 I see a lot of streetlights angled down, not up, and that too makes a difference in how much the area is able to illuminate. 00:57:06.599 --> 00:57:13.599 So I'm going to ask that that too be taken into consideration. 00:57:13.599 --> 00:57:28.599 A lot of the lights in third and fifth ward are angled downward, not upward where they can illuminate. Thank you. 00:57:28.599 --> 00:57:33.599 If there's no further discussion, we move on to department head reports, finance. 00:57:33.599 --> 00:57:35.599 Nothing this evening. 00:57:35.599 --> 00:57:36.599 Yes ma'am. 00:57:36.599 --> 00:57:40.599 I mean, can we take action on this? 00:57:40.599 --> 00:57:43.599 I asked if there was any further discussion and no one said anything. 00:57:43.599 --> 00:57:46.880 I was hoping to take action on this tonight. 00:57:46.880 --> 00:57:53.679 Well, I think it was kind of decided that we would task some trees to be removed or trimmed 00:57:53.679 --> 00:57:57.639 back and a brighter light put in and let's see how it looks. 00:57:57.639 --> 00:58:00.920 We can always talk about it once those things are done if it's not satisfactory. 00:58:00.920 --> 00:58:03.239 Okay. 00:58:03.239 --> 00:58:10.190 I'm not all right with that, but what do I say? 00:58:10.190 --> 00:58:15.269 What do you want to do? 00:58:15.269 --> 00:58:33.739 Mayor Miller, there's people that know this area. There's people that know the power in the angle of the light and the power in the bulb. And so you already know what it's going to take to lighten up this area and make it better. 00:58:33.739 --> 00:58:34.739 and George. 00:58:34.739 --> 00:58:39.699 So, I'm asking for the angle of the light and the power in the bulb. 00:58:39.699 --> 00:58:48.340 And so, you already know what it's going to take to lighten up this area and make it better. 00:58:48.340 --> 00:58:51.579 So that's all I'm asking for. 00:58:51.579 --> 00:59:01.059 So if people are committing to lighting up that area and making it better, then okay. 00:59:01.059 --> 00:59:32.630 George, did you want to say something about that? Okay, Darren. So George and I can go look at it together. We have no problem adding, you know, additional lighting if it's needed. There's different kinds of lighting. The existing lighting that ComEd utilizes on most of their poles, the new LEDs has a downward sweep on it, right? So we can we can buy different lights to go on poles if that's the direction of council to try to illuminate it better and cutting trees 00:59:32.630 --> 00:59:35.789 this is just a function of ordering that to be done. 00:59:35.789 --> 00:59:37.710 So we can absolutely have that done. 00:59:37.710 --> 00:59:40.550 If it's not enough, then we can investigate 00:59:40.550 --> 00:59:43.269 adding another pole to the area 00:59:43.269 --> 00:59:47.230 or maybe adding some lighting to the park. 00:59:47.230 --> 00:59:49.230 Although I don't believe it's a city park. 00:59:49.230 --> 00:59:50.280 That's a city park. 00:59:50.280 --> 00:59:55.360 But that's something we can investigate, too, to light up the corner better. 00:59:55.360 --> 00:59:56.360 Alderman Sanders? 00:59:56.360 --> 00:59:57.480 Oh, yeah. 00:59:57.480 --> 01:00:03.360 In addition to what you're saying, if we're going to look at one area, let us take a survey 01:00:03.360 --> 01:00:07.320 of all the areas that has that potential problem. 01:00:07.320 --> 01:00:14.119 And if that is the case, we want to look into those problem areas as well when it comes 01:00:14.119 --> 01:00:24.119 We did a lot of work to try to make a response to lighting any particular area that might be causing a little bit of darkness in the community or whatever the case may be. 01:00:24.119 --> 01:00:38.119 If we can do that, also, in addition to what we are doing here in state and Iroquois, I think we will get a better understanding of what is going on throughout the city itself. 01:00:38.119 --> 01:00:45.860 So we discussed this subject I want to say maybe six months ago and I brought 01:00:45.860 --> 01:00:51.280 numbers back about it so we can change lights out in areas the police chief and 01:00:51.280 --> 01:00:59.199 I sat down and targeted some areas in town to replace the lights is roughly 01:00:59.199 --> 01:01:04.360 probably $500 a fixture plus install to change them out to a brighter 01:01:04.360 --> 01:01:10.920 Fischer. Something like you'd see in downtown Freeport. That's not something ComEd can 01:01:10.920 --> 01:01:17.099 support. That's something that we locally have to do. If we want to add poles and lights 01:01:17.099 --> 01:01:23.239 and tap those into the electric system, roughly that's going to cost us about $15,000 per 01:01:23.239 --> 01:01:28.239 pole to add. And that's a cost to the city of Freeport because those pole placements 01:01:28.239 --> 01:01:32.960 and everything are already all negotiated out. And I've talked to Georgia at length 01:01:32.960 --> 01:01:33.960 Huffins. 01:01:33.960 --> 01:01:37.519 They're more than willing to add them, but that's a bill that we have to sustain. 01:01:37.519 --> 01:01:45.119 So realistically, when we change from an incandescent fixture, which used a lot more electricity, 01:01:45.119 --> 01:01:51.239 those had more of a bulb type of a fan light where the LEDs are more directional because 01:01:51.239 --> 01:01:53.420 they're way less wattage. 01:01:53.420 --> 01:01:56.239 So I'm not saying we can't, we just have to have direction. 01:01:56.239 --> 01:02:01.980 The last time we discussed this, and I could go back and get the date, there was no direction 01:02:01.980 --> 01:02:08.099 to do anything so we didn't do anything with it at that time because we can't have ComEd 01:02:08.099 --> 01:02:11.260 do it and not pay them for the work. 01:02:11.260 --> 01:02:20.300 I don't know what the city can do with switching the heads or the light fixtures. 01:02:20.300 --> 01:02:26.239 So on the ComEd-owned poles, ComEd has to change the fixtures on ComEd poles. 01:02:26.239 --> 01:02:31.699 We can buy the lights and they can do the replacements, but they're fixtures, they're 01:02:31.699 --> 01:02:34.739 and Stacey are under their contracts. 01:02:34.739 --> 01:02:38.460 Okay, I just don't want this to go another six months 01:02:38.460 --> 01:02:42.219 and don't see nothing happening or nothing done. 01:02:42.219 --> 01:02:48.699 So I am asking that we move on this now. 01:02:48.699 --> 01:02:50.440 Alderman Sellers. 01:02:50.440 --> 01:02:53.699 Alderman Stacey, I totally agree with you about lighting, 01:02:53.699 --> 01:02:55.179 but that is all over Freeport. 01:02:55.179 --> 01:02:59.380 If you go down to the corner of, what is it, Ottawa 01:02:59.380 --> 01:03:02.059 and Iroquois, it's dark down. 01:03:02.059 --> 01:03:08.340 you can't hardly see down there. If you go, if you ride down Lincoln, it's dark riding 01:03:08.340 --> 01:03:16.139 down Lincoln. If you ride down, so we need to make it where it's a whole city looking 01:03:16.139 --> 01:03:22.260 into lighting, not just one area because to me the whole city needs more lighting. 01:03:22.260 --> 01:03:32.019 I understand what you're saying Alderman Sellers, but we have to start somewhere. We have to 01:03:32.019 --> 01:03:42.500 to start somewhere. So I brought this tonight. Rachel and I brought this tonight to the Council, 01:03:42.500 --> 01:03:50.260 hoping that we have a beginning of something wonderful and new. But we have to start somewhere. 01:03:50.260 --> 01:03:57.659 Darren, do you have any idea how many lights the City has replaced with the brighter LED? 01:03:57.659 --> 01:04:14.940 Excuse me, I believe that the only brighter LED lights in town are the ones that the city actually owns and paid for, which are through the downtown loops, because the the ones that are outside of downtown are all comment owned, they're not directly ours. 01:04:14.940 --> 01:04:24.539 That being said, if we want to do a light, I'm going to call it a light fixture replacement, because it's not something we just change a bulb and you got to change the whole head unit, 01:04:24.539 --> 01:04:25.539 Fowler. 01:04:25.539 --> 01:04:30.460 We need direction on where that money will come from out of the budget, which is fine, 01:04:30.460 --> 01:04:32.139 and we can move on it. 01:04:32.139 --> 01:04:36.860 And I would suggest that if we are going to make some changes, then we work off of Chief 01:04:36.860 --> 01:04:40.179 Shenberger's list of higher area of crime. 01:04:40.179 --> 01:04:43.019 That's where we kind of started and sort of directed that before. 01:04:43.019 --> 01:04:48.019 But we got to have a budget to purchase these fixtures out of because it will become our 01:04:48.019 --> 01:04:49.019 cost. 01:04:49.019 --> 01:04:57.500 Alderman, Sanders. Yeah, I gather all of that which you just said, which is a true statement 01:04:57.500 --> 01:05:05.579 as I believe it is. But I also want, because my sister Alderman is crying about the scheduling 01:05:05.579 --> 01:05:12.340 and the planning of this project and how to get it moving, getting it off the ground. 01:05:12.340 --> 01:05:20.380 I want Manager Boyer to give us a preview of how this is going to come about and what 01:05:20.380 --> 01:05:28.300 it's going to cost us and things of this nature because I'm thinking that his input to when 01:05:28.300 --> 01:05:35.420 this should be scheduled and done, we should be hearing it from Manager Boyer. 01:05:35.420 --> 01:05:37.779 That's how we get this thing started. 01:05:37.779 --> 01:05:40.380 That's what I'm trying to say. 01:05:40.380 --> 01:05:49.300 wants to get it started. I'm quite sure everybody in this room wants to get it started because 01:05:49.300 --> 01:05:57.179 it's a necessity and we should not wait. And so I'm asking Manager Boyer if it's possible 01:05:57.179 --> 01:06:03.220 that he can start this project planning so we can get a big view of how we're going to 01:06:03.220 --> 01:06:09.760 go about and what it's going to cost us and how we're going to plan it out for the council 01:06:09.760 --> 01:06:39.760 and the mayor. So I think the public should be looking into this. We should be able to understand how we are going to go about it in the community as well. So I think starting this project is definitely something that I feel that should be something you are looking into. You should look into that matter so we can get it started. Because I don't want to hear her say 01:06:39.760 --> 01:06:40.760 Fowler. 01:06:40.760 --> 01:06:43.239 I don't hear no sound. 01:06:43.239 --> 01:06:48.239 I don't hear the reverberation that's supposed to be going on about, yeah, yeah, let's put 01:06:48.239 --> 01:06:53.960 more lights out there so people are not getting killed, you know, that kind of stuff. 01:06:53.960 --> 01:07:00.279 And so that's the, and so we need a plan and strategy, survey all of the things that is 01:07:00.279 --> 01:07:04.400 required to make this thing happen. 01:07:04.400 --> 01:07:09.199 I may not have all the answers right now, but I'm quite sure we all sitting here collectively 01:07:09.199 --> 01:07:23.670 Good evening, George Galrap, Freeport Residence, employed by ComEd. 01:07:23.670 --> 01:07:29.809 So six months ago I did take a tour of the streets that Darren gave me, they are LED 01:07:29.809 --> 01:07:35.210 lights. Freeport's, I believe all Freeport lights, incandescent lights have been replaced 01:07:35.210 --> 01:07:41.889 with LED. Now maybe not to the standard of the alums that you want to have it, so I did 01:07:41.889 --> 01:07:48.369 We can go back and look at that. 01:07:48.369 --> 01:07:53.529 Last Thursday I had a meeting scheduled with your city council, or excuse me, city manager 01:07:53.529 --> 01:08:00.369 Rob Boyer to drive the area, but unfortunately I attended the funeral of the state trooper 01:08:00.369 --> 01:08:04.570 who was killed last week, he's my friend's son. 01:08:04.570 --> 01:08:06.369 And that's to be rescheduled. 01:08:06.369 --> 01:08:08.769 I couldn't get it rescheduled today, 01:08:08.769 --> 01:08:11.889 but I'll call Rob's administrative assistant 01:08:11.889 --> 01:08:14.329 and make sure that we get that rescheduled 01:08:14.329 --> 01:08:17.090 and let's do it the right way the first time. 01:08:17.090 --> 01:08:20.170 So if somebody else would like to join that tour 01:08:20.170 --> 01:08:22.130 or make suggestions, that's fine. 01:08:22.130 --> 01:08:25.050 And like Alderman Sanders said, it's just not one area. 01:08:25.050 --> 01:08:27.890 I live in Catherine Drive over in Highland Heights 01:08:27.890 --> 01:08:29.930 along with Alderman Klemm, 01:08:29.930 --> 01:08:33.690 and we have one streetlight period, single streetlight. 01:08:33.690 --> 01:08:38.529 the developer traded out with the city 30 years ago that the homes are supposed to have 01:08:38.529 --> 01:08:44.609 a garage peak light to light the area. Hardly any do. So we'll make sure we include the 01:08:44.609 --> 01:08:51.409 entire city. But next next week or this week coming up will be a tour of the fifth ward. 01:08:51.409 --> 01:08:52.409 Any questions? 01:08:52.409 --> 01:08:59.090 Thank you, Madam Mayor. Since you're here, I'll ask you face to face. So northbound on 01:08:59.090 --> 01:09:04.270 26 on the east side of the road there's a pole that was hit by lightning burned to 01:09:04.270 --> 01:09:09.130 the ground the wires are all the way to the ground power line appears I've been 01:09:09.130 --> 01:09:12.770 asking for over a year to get that fixed several people within the city 01:09:12.770 --> 01:09:19.970 administration not been fixed the other who do we call to notify of light street 01:09:19.970 --> 01:09:23.449 lights that are out and who's responsible for that pretty easy it's 01:09:23.449 --> 01:09:49.460 1-800-Edison-1. 1-800-Edison-1. Yeah, so it's 1-800-334-7661, or you can cheat and call me, a lot quicker if you call me, and the city manager will give you my cell number. Okay, any other questions? Thank you. Thank you. You're welcome. Thank you, George. 01:09:49.460 --> 01:09:52.600 You're welcome. Thank you, George. Madam Mayor, I do have a question, not for you, Mr. Gorep. Thank you for your time. 01:09:52.600 --> 01:10:00.000 Yes, go ahead. Okay, so my question would be for you, Baron, or Wayne, or whichever one. 01:10:00.000 --> 01:10:09.079 So trimming the trees, getting a brighter bulb, what is our timeline? 01:10:09.079 --> 01:10:16.079 Trimming trees, we can probably get done if the weather holds in the next five to ten days max. 01:10:16.079 --> 01:10:21.560 Hicks. Lights, I will have to see if we have anything in the inventory. If we do, we can 01:10:21.560 --> 01:10:28.960 address that. I don't know if we have any ones that are as bright as Freeport or as downtown. 01:10:28.960 --> 01:10:33.479 If not, we can order one. Based on supply, I would think within a couple weeks we could 01:10:33.479 --> 01:10:40.039 have that light changed out. It shouldn't be that big a hassle to get done as long as 01:10:40.039 --> 01:10:43.119 that's the direction we want to move. 01:10:43.119 --> 01:10:47.119 I believe that was clear, that's the direction we want to move, right? 01:10:47.119 --> 01:10:51.119 Yes, you keep saying that. Why do you keep saying that? 01:10:51.119 --> 01:10:57.119 The one at the corner of Iroquois and State is no problem. 01:10:57.119 --> 01:11:01.119 It's if we want to move further, then we have to have more direction. 01:11:01.119 --> 01:11:03.119 That one is no problem. 01:11:03.119 --> 01:11:11.119 Until we do the 5th Ward drive-through with Mr. Gorap, we don't know. 01:11:11.119 --> 01:11:23.260 correct that's where it comes back to one step at a time yep exactly okay we good 01:11:23.260 --> 01:11:31.449 and I believe finance you said no report nothing tonight madam mayor thank you 01:11:31.449 --> 01:11:37.689 public works just one thing we have a water main break on Galena North Galena 01:11:37.689 --> 01:11:45.569 Avenue by the McDonald's and the Lincoln Mall we have traffic control set up at 01:11:45.569 --> 01:11:46.569 Miller. 01:11:46.569 --> 01:11:47.569 Thank you. 01:11:47.569 --> 01:11:50.449 At this time, please avoid the area if at all possible until we get the area fixed. 01:11:50.449 --> 01:11:54.329 I'm not sure if we'll get working on it tomorrow or actually Wednesday. 01:11:54.329 --> 01:11:59.729 We're trying to pinpoint where the leak is before we start digging the road up. 01:11:59.729 --> 01:12:00.729 Thank you. 01:12:00.729 --> 01:12:01.729 Chief Miller? 01:12:01.729 --> 01:12:03.729 No report from fire this evening. 01:12:03.729 --> 01:12:04.729 Thank you. 01:12:04.729 --> 01:12:05.729 Chief Schell? 01:12:05.729 --> 01:12:06.729 I have nothing tonight. 01:12:06.729 --> 01:12:07.729 Thank you. 01:12:07.729 --> 01:12:08.729 Library. 01:12:08.729 --> 01:12:13.729 Now is the perfect time to sign up for the library's e-newsletter and learn all about 01:12:13.729 --> 01:12:20.210 our upcoming events, which include our American History Lecture Series, our One Book One Freeport 01:12:20.210 --> 01:12:25.289 Community Read, which begins on January 25th, and we are also working on a collaboration 01:12:25.289 --> 01:12:29.449 with the Greater Freeport Partnership and the Link of Douglas Society for a Journey 01:12:29.449 --> 01:12:33.770 to Freedom, Illinois's Underground Railroad, and it's a museum exhibit. 01:12:33.770 --> 01:12:35.689 Thank you. 01:12:35.689 --> 01:12:36.689 Communication? 01:12:36.689 --> 01:12:37.689 IT? 01:12:37.689 --> 01:12:38.689 City Manager? 01:12:38.689 --> 01:12:44.409 City Manager. Thank your honor I just wanted to report on the successful refresh 01:12:44.409 --> 01:12:50.130 Freeport endeavor we did this last weekend we received had 83 vehicles come 01:12:50.130 --> 01:12:58.050 by with over 17 tons of garbage so that's a victory as far as I'm concerned 01:12:58.050 --> 01:13:04.170 the Gills did not anticipate anywhere near that much of a response so the way 01:13:04.170 --> 01:13:08.130 we have to look at it is this is garbage that's going to end up in the dump not 01:13:08.130 --> 01:13:13.529 on these empty lots. So that's all. Thank you, Mayor. Yes, thank you to Gil's 01:13:13.529 --> 01:13:23.050 disposal. Alderman Sellers? No, nothing. A couple things if I could. First off, we'll 01:13:23.050 --> 01:13:29.970 have a neighborhood watch on the 28th at Schwartz Chapel. I'll get email out on 01:13:29.970 --> 01:13:37.770 that. And there's a group of concerned citizens working at the moment with an 01:13:37.770 --> 01:13:40.989 and extra amount of homeless people here in the city. 01:13:42.090 --> 01:13:44.489 As we know, it's really gonna get cold tonight. 01:13:44.489 --> 01:13:49.489 There's a set up at the church next door all ready to go. 01:13:49.489 --> 01:13:52.170 The people are looking for somebody to help man it 01:13:52.170 --> 01:13:55.289 from different churches or different organizations. 01:13:55.289 --> 01:13:59.789 So if there's anything we can do at all to help with this, 01:14:00.649 --> 01:14:03.210 you can please get ahold of me and I can pass it on 01:14:03.210 --> 01:14:05.489 or there's a number of people that you can get ahold of. 01:14:05.489 --> 01:14:09.569 but it's really important because they have 10 setups 01:14:09.569 --> 01:14:12.970 and FACC is overwhelmed at the moment 01:14:12.970 --> 01:14:15.289 and it's something we as citizens 01:14:15.289 --> 01:14:16.970 need to help everybody out with. 01:14:17.930 --> 01:14:18.770 Thank you. 01:14:18.770 --> 01:14:22.729 My number is, I'll just give it 815-978-0484 01:14:24.449 --> 01:14:26.850 and I'll be happy to pass any information on. 01:14:26.850 --> 01:14:27.949 Thank you. 01:14:27.949 --> 01:14:29.250 Thank you. 01:14:29.250 --> 01:14:30.289 Alderman Monroe. 01:14:30.289 --> 01:14:31.130 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 01:14:31.130 --> 01:14:32.729 I'm glad we're getting to that water break 01:14:32.729 --> 01:14:34.930 that's been there for about three weeks now. 01:14:35.489 --> 01:14:46.289 that's important it's been wet for three weeks and you know I never mind that's 01:14:46.289 --> 01:14:52.529 all I've got mayor. Thank you Alderman Simmons? I don't have anything thank you. Alderman Parker? Nothing tonight. 01:14:52.529 --> 01:15:02.329 Alderman State? Nothing. Alderman Shadle? Nothing tonight. Alderman Sanders? Nothing. 01:15:02.329 --> 01:15:18.819 that leaves us to public comment. We had one that signed in. Micaiah Stacy. Good 01:15:18.819 --> 01:15:22.180 evening. I'm here to express my deep concern regarding the events surrounding 01:15:22.180 --> 01:15:27.640 item number nine discussing the revisions to ordinance chapter 220 01:15:27.640 --> 01:15:34.340 council section 220.10 rules of council which was discussed on November 12th. It 01:15:34.340 --> 01:15:38.300 is a fact that after much conversation Alderperson Stacy moved and Alderperson 01:15:38.300 --> 01:15:42.500 Simmons seconded a motion to move this item to December 16th. The motion was 01:15:42.500 --> 01:15:45.859 carried with full support from seven alder persons including Klemm, Simmons, 01:15:45.859 --> 01:15:51.100 Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, and Sellers. It appears that the direction given by 01:15:51.100 --> 01:15:54.260 our elected alder persons was ignored and not respected and the item was not 01:15:54.260 --> 01:15:58.420 placed on the December 16th agenda. The people of Freeport would like to know 01:15:58.420 --> 01:16:02.600 why. Not only was this a blatant disregard for the council's decision but 01:16:02.600 --> 01:16:05.819 it also further serious concerns about the transparency and accountability of 01:16:05.819 --> 01:16:09.060 Baird, and the board of the Board of Directors. 01:16:09.060 --> 01:16:11.100 I believe that the revisions proposed by the current Mayor, which seem rooted in inclusion 01:16:11.100 --> 01:16:15.340 and hate, have been designed to restrict the voice of our elected officials, and by extension, 01:16:15.340 --> 01:16:16.920 the people of Freeport. 01:16:16.920 --> 01:16:20.779 The proposal to increase fines and impose more strict rules further diminishes the public's 01:16:20.779 --> 01:16:23.739 ability to engage in local governance. 01:16:23.739 --> 01:16:28.060 We expected this Mayor to provide some type of explanation for our proposal on December 01:16:28.060 --> 01:16:29.060 16th. 01:16:29.060 --> 01:16:30.800 Or did you think we'd forget? 01:16:30.800 --> 01:16:32.579 The situation needs to be addressed immediately. 01:16:32.579 --> 01:16:36.819 I urge the Mayor, City Council, and the City Manager to take the necessary steps to uphold 01:16:36.819 --> 01:16:40.460 the will of the Council and ensure that all items are discussed and placed on the agenda 01:16:40.460 --> 01:16:44.420 according to the proper procedures. 01:16:44.420 --> 01:16:48.979 The public's trust in this administration has been shaken and transparency must be restored. 01:16:48.979 --> 01:16:49.979 Thank you. 01:16:49.979 --> 01:16:52.420 Are there any other public comments? 01:16:52.420 --> 01:17:07.819 To branch off what I said earlier, on November 19th, when they thought that they were going 01:17:07.819 --> 01:17:37.819 I'm trying to figure out why they was not arrested. The only thing I could say is that Chief Shenberger told me today that he was going to still look into it. They continue to bring items every time they're spoken to. Even today I got a call. They have two of my bounce houses, commercial grade, that they keep getting. I would have been arrested the second that they thought I committed felony theft. 01:17:37.819 --> 01:17:41.859 I don't know why this is being ignored or being treated as is not important. 01:17:41.859 --> 01:17:48.060 And then also, I have talked to Mayor Miller, I've talked to Rob Boyer about the direct 01:17:48.060 --> 01:17:51.220 misconduct that Wayne Duckman has been aiming towards me. 01:17:51.220 --> 01:17:54.739 He actually said that he was going to knock down everything I own. 01:17:54.739 --> 01:18:01.619 On the 27th of December, I served him and Steve Cox with a stop demolition order. 01:18:01.619 --> 01:18:04.039 They tore down my house the same day. 01:18:04.039 --> 01:18:09.720 The legal is to, if I am filing a legal court proceeding that at my house automatically 01:18:09.720 --> 01:18:14.899 halted demolition, he chose to knock it down anyway. 01:18:14.899 --> 01:18:19.119 And I just don't understand why or who is ignoring what and why is he given so much 01:18:19.119 --> 01:18:21.039 power to do what he wants. 01:18:21.039 --> 01:18:26.840 And if it wasn't part of the approval on the council member, it's 402 and 404 E. Shawnee 01:18:26.840 --> 01:18:29.659 that was not approved to get knocked down. 01:18:29.659 --> 01:18:30.659 Thank you. 01:18:30.659 --> 01:18:35.000 Are there any other public comments? 01:18:35.000 --> 01:18:47.359 We have two items tonight pursuant to 5 ILCS 122 C 11 litigation when an action against 01:18:47.359 --> 01:18:51.559 effecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before 01:18:51.559 --> 01:18:56.920 a court or administration administrative tribunal or when the public body finds that an action 01:18:56.920 --> 01:19:01.119 is probable or imminent in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and 01:19:01.119 --> 01:19:07.000 entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 122 C 21, discussion of 01:19:07.000 --> 01:19:11.619 minutes of meetings lawfully closed under this act, whether for purposes of approval 01:19:11.619 --> 01:19:16.199 by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by section 01:19:16.199 --> 01:19:17.199 2.06. 01:19:17.199 --> 01:19:20.199 Is there a motion to enter into executive session? 01:19:20.199 --> 01:19:21.199 So moved. 01:19:21.199 --> 01:19:22.199 Second. 01:19:22.199 --> 01:19:28.680 Motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Monroe. Madam Clerk, would you please 01:19:28.680 --> 01:19:29.680 take the roll? 01:19:29.680 --> 01:19:30.680 Sellers? 01:19:30.680 --> 01:19:31.680 Aye. 01:19:31.680 --> 01:19:32.680 Klemm? 01:19:32.680 --> 01:19:39.559 Monroe, Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, and Sanders.