WEBVTT

00:00:04.940 --> 00:00:09.300
Good evening, Madam Mayor, everyone. Would you please pray with me?

00:00:11.869 --> 00:00:17.870
Lord of all, it is the glory of every human being to seek your wisdom and strength.

00:00:19.109 --> 00:00:23.910
You are admirable in your power and wisdom and truth and

00:00:24.989 --> 00:00:26.989
for your mercy and grace.

00:00:27.429 --> 00:00:30.670
Every truly good thing that we know is

00:00:31.469 --> 00:00:33.390
sourced in you.

00:00:33.390 --> 00:00:44.390
So thank you tonight for your gifts that you've given each one here of life, of health, of community, of gifts for leadership and governance.

00:00:45.390 --> 00:00:55.390
Lord, we thank you for this city, our home, and for those that you have put in place to be servants for the public interest here.

00:00:55.390 --> 00:01:11.390
Lord, we thank you for this mayor and this council for these department heads, this city manager, and for so many others even in the seats here tonight that you give their time and talent for the welfare of this city.

00:01:11.390 --> 00:01:24.390
Lord, you care about integrity, about wise planning, about justice, and we ask that you give both the leaders of this city and its citizens the humility

00:01:24.390 --> 00:01:31.189
To seek these things from you and may they find your mercy and grace that you offer freely and so tonight

00:01:31.189 --> 00:01:36.629
We ask that you'd help each one of us here to act honorably before you and

00:01:37.390 --> 00:01:39.629
with deference and grace toward each other

00:01:40.269 --> 00:01:46.349
For you have made us to speak and act with both love and truth. I

00:01:47.109 --> 00:01:50.250
Ask all this in Christ the Lord. Amen

00:01:50.250 --> 00:02:57.629
So now we'll officially call this meeting to order. Madam Clerk, could you please take the role? Mayor Miller? Here. Alderpersons, Klemm? Here. Johnson? Here. Simmons is absent. Parker? Here. Stacy? Here. Shadle? Here. Sanders? Here. And Sellers? Here. And we'll wait until Alderman Stacy is able to get up to her chair because she leads the pledge. Madam Clerk,

00:02:57.629 --> 00:03:05.629
Can you please make note that 603 Alderman Simmons arrived and then if you could all please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Stacy.

00:03:05.629 --> 00:03:26.639
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

00:03:26.639 --> 00:03:29.639
Item number one is the approval of the agenda. Is there such a motion?

00:03:29.639 --> 00:03:30.639
So moved.

00:03:30.639 --> 00:03:35.099
Second.

00:03:35.099 --> 00:03:40.300
Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle, all those in favor signify by saying aye.

00:03:40.300 --> 00:03:45.259
Aye. Opposed? That motion passes. Item number two is approval of the minutes from the regular

00:03:45.259 --> 00:03:53.740
meeting on July 21st, 2025, is such a motion. So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Shadle,

00:03:53.740 --> 00:03:59.819
seconded by Alderman Klemm, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion

00:03:59.819 --> 00:04:07.560
Passes. Item number three is recognition of service awards. Manager Boyer. Thank

00:04:07.560 --> 00:04:12.360
your honor. Rick Lineman has been with the city for ten years. He started out as

00:04:12.360 --> 00:04:16.339
a swing shift operator at the wastewater treatment plant. He is now the chief

00:04:16.339 --> 00:04:20.860
wastewater operator. He's also received his class one wastewater license as well

00:04:20.860 --> 00:04:25.680
as his class B water treatment license and we're very appreciative for his

00:04:25.680 --> 00:04:27.680
and

00:04:28.680 --> 00:04:29.680
the

00:04:29.680 --> 00:04:30.680
city.

00:04:30.680 --> 00:04:35.550
That basically concludes my remarks.

00:04:35.550 --> 00:04:36.550
Thank you.

00:04:36.550 --> 00:04:38.550
Item number four is public comments.

00:04:38.550 --> 00:04:41.550
Madam Clerk, did you have one that you had for reading?

00:04:41.550 --> 00:04:42.550
I did.

00:04:42.550 --> 00:04:46.550
This one was emailed in and relates to agenda item number 24.

00:04:46.550 --> 00:04:50.550
It is from Kelly Hobak.

00:04:50.550 --> 00:04:56.550
Please consider the following as my letter of support for grievance 01-2025.

00:04:56.550 --> 00:04:57.550
Huffines.

00:04:57.550 --> 00:05:03.069
I am writing to emphasize the necessity of stalling curb ramps to ensure accessibility

00:05:03.069 --> 00:05:07.550
for individuals who use wheelchairs and others with mobility challenges.

00:05:07.550 --> 00:05:12.470
Curb ramps are essential for safe and independent navigation across sidewalks and streets.

00:05:12.470 --> 00:05:17.550
Without them, wheelchair users face significant physical barriers that can prevent them from

00:05:17.550 --> 00:05:20.470
accessing public spaces freely and safely.

00:05:20.470 --> 00:05:24.870
These barriers not only compromise mobility, but also dignity and independence.

00:05:24.870 --> 00:05:30.550
I would also like to reference a previously submitted grievance, 01-2025, specifically

00:05:30.550 --> 00:05:35.290
concerning the corners of Park Boulevard and Church Street. The lack of curb ramps at these

00:05:35.290 --> 00:05:40.589
intersections continues to pose serious accessibility issues for community members with mobility

00:05:40.589 --> 00:05:46.029
impairments. While I appreciate any steps taken so far, this location remains a critical

00:05:46.029 --> 00:05:50.829
area in need of attention. Installing curb ramps is not only a matter of legal compliance

00:05:50.829 --> 00:05:51.829
Miller.

00:05:51.829 --> 00:05:54.509
It is a matter of equity and inclusion.

00:05:54.509 --> 00:05:59.829
These ramps benefit not only wheelchair users, but also individuals using walkers, strollers,

00:05:59.829 --> 00:06:01.889
bicycles, and delivery carts.

00:06:01.889 --> 00:06:05.350
They make public spaces safer and more accessible for everyone.

00:06:05.350 --> 00:06:07.149
Thank you for your attention to this matter.

00:06:07.149 --> 00:06:12.509
I urge you to prioritize the installation of curb ramps at Park Boulevard and Sure Street

00:06:12.509 --> 00:06:17.069
and take meaningful steps towards creating a more inclusive and accessible environment.

00:06:17.069 --> 00:06:22.000
Sincerely, Kelly Habach.

00:06:22.000 --> 00:06:29.000
and then we have Ernestine Edmond on a bid package.

00:06:29.000 --> 00:06:37.649
I'm not sure if I said that name correctly.

00:06:37.649 --> 00:06:41.350
Did you want to comment on a bid package?

00:06:41.350 --> 00:07:01.480
Yeah, that's a bid package.

00:07:01.480 --> 00:07:11.800
I just wanted to be here because I am in the midst of all this because we're in a rental

00:07:11.800 --> 00:07:13.800
and

00:07:14.800 --> 00:07:16.800
the

00:07:18.000 --> 00:07:21.439
property. And months ago I got letters saying that the property

00:07:21.439 --> 00:07:23.439
had been sold.

00:07:24.480 --> 00:07:27.439
» Okay, so that doesn't have to do with the bid package. So if

00:07:27.439 --> 00:07:32.019
you want to talk about rental properties, then you have to

00:07:32.019 --> 00:07:50.680
wait until the end. » Okay.

00:07:50.680 --> 00:07:53.519
» Okay. » Which item number are we

00:07:53.519 --> 00:07:55.680
talking about? » I asked if I could address

00:07:55.680 --> 00:07:58.360
you and the council. » Okay. According to public

00:07:58.360 --> 00:07:59.360
Huffines.

00:07:59.360 --> 00:08:03.560
These are your constituents that are being gentrified out of this town based around properties

00:08:03.560 --> 00:08:06.879
that have been sold and is increasing their rents.

00:08:06.879 --> 00:08:10.959
These are your constituents that are going to be homeless with their children, one of

00:08:10.959 --> 00:08:13.959
whom has been hurt in one of these pieces of property.

00:08:13.959 --> 00:08:15.319
You guys don't want to hear us?

00:08:15.319 --> 00:08:17.120
You will hear us one way or the other.

00:08:17.120 --> 00:08:20.759
You're going to either hear us today and not make these people stay here all night, they

00:08:20.759 --> 00:08:25.600
got to go home to their kids and their family and their homes that they will no longer be

00:08:25.600 --> 00:08:26.600
able to exist.

00:08:26.600 --> 00:08:29.399
I'm passionate about this simply because I've been in that situation.

00:08:29.399 --> 00:08:34.100
I've been in transitional housing for 18 months, not under the same conditions that they're going through.

00:08:34.100 --> 00:08:37.600
And you guys need to hear them. All of you need to hear them.

00:08:37.600 --> 00:08:41.100
You need to listen to what your constituents are saying and what I'm saying to you guys simply.

00:08:41.100 --> 00:08:45.600
If they don't listen to you, get them out of here. Register. Everybody need to register.

00:08:45.600 --> 00:08:50.600
Vote them out of their seat. They need to hear you. If you're not going to hear you, leave out of this door.

00:08:50.600 --> 00:08:53.899
Don't let them wait until the last minute to do what they're doing.

00:08:53.899 --> 00:09:04.039
Okay you you you are out of order it has nothing to do well then you will be asked

00:09:04.039 --> 00:09:18.980
to leave could you please escort her out for those of you that are standing for

00:09:18.980 --> 00:09:23.139
those of you that are standing I just want to say we are sorry for the

00:09:23.139 --> 00:09:25.899
and the hardships that you are going through.

00:09:25.899 --> 00:09:28.179
But please know that the city has...

00:09:28.179 --> 00:09:29.179
Can I...

00:09:29.179 --> 00:09:30.179
You...

00:09:30.179 --> 00:09:31.179
You...

00:09:31.179 --> 00:09:45.299
I want you to know, you can talk at the end of the public comment if you'd like.

00:09:45.299 --> 00:09:49.620
You can talk at the end of public comment if you'd like.

00:09:49.620 --> 00:09:52.500
If you would like to be escorted out as well, that's your choice.

00:09:52.500 --> 00:09:57.850
You touched enough on this damn channel. I have a good PC.

00:09:58.000 --> 00:10:31.100
Chief, if you could handle this. For those of you that have stayed, I would just like

00:10:31.100 --> 00:10:35.779
to say I'm sorry for what you're experiencing, but please note that the city has no rent

00:10:35.779 --> 00:10:43.500
control. We have no right to govern what another business puts out for a price. We don't. There's

00:10:43.500 --> 00:10:48.940
nothing. We feel bad that you're being increased, but we have no authority to stop them from

00:10:48.940 --> 00:10:49.940
Doerr.

00:10:49.940 --> 00:10:52.899
Well, we could.

00:10:52.899 --> 00:10:55.700
So we will move on.

00:10:55.700 --> 00:10:59.700
We have other public comments that are on agenda items.

00:10:59.700 --> 00:11:02.580
I believe Rhonda Scott, you are item number 14.

00:11:02.580 --> 00:11:11.899
Yes, I'm going to speak on item 14, but I do think that demolition item 26 is an important

00:11:11.899 --> 00:11:17.419
issue and that we are demolishing properties that could be turned into useful rentals,

00:11:17.419 --> 00:11:19.899
and that is a concern that we should be talking about.

00:11:19.899 --> 00:11:24.360
I'm here to talk about the lift station. I was upset about it last time because I've

00:11:24.360 --> 00:11:30.340
been knowing about the Lamb Road TIF and this lift station which just came up but

00:11:30.340 --> 00:11:37.379
that TIF has been in existence since 2003 and Walmart and Menards were forced

00:11:37.379 --> 00:11:42.419
out there by a handful of white men who bought up land cheap and stuck them out

00:11:42.419 --> 00:11:46.940
there so that they could collect their property taxes. This is not Walmart or

00:11:46.940 --> 00:11:52.620
or Menard's fault. This is this group of creepy men who dictate what happens in

00:11:52.620 --> 00:11:57.460
Freeport and steal our property taxes and so that's what's happening in the

00:11:57.460 --> 00:12:03.379
Lamb Road Tiff. Walmart and Menard's property taxes are now funding a lift

00:12:03.379 --> 00:12:09.419
station to pump sewage out of there. Now when that development went in in 2005 I

00:12:09.419 --> 00:12:14.220
sat on the Planning Commission. I questioned all of this. Guess what? I was

00:12:14.220 --> 00:12:15.220
Kessler.

00:12:15.220 --> 00:12:23.220
This is what happens to people who look up and find out the facts.

00:12:23.220 --> 00:12:25.299
So here we are today paying for a lift station.

00:12:25.299 --> 00:12:32.899
I just talked to Mr. Stekel, Darren, and I asked, why do we not know how much this is

00:12:32.899 --> 00:12:33.899
going to cost?

00:12:33.899 --> 00:12:38.180
Tonight you're about to approve $234,000 for engineering services.

00:12:38.180 --> 00:12:40.139
Do you know what that means?

00:12:40.139 --> 00:12:46.319
Means you're going to pay him to oversee construction for a lift station. Do you know how much

00:12:46.319 --> 00:12:52.220
a lift station is going to cost you? Do you know how much it costs to run a lift station?

00:12:52.220 --> 00:12:56.340
I asked Mr. Stegall, and he gave me an answer, which I appreciated. He said it's going to

00:12:56.340 --> 00:13:02.919
cost around $2.8, $2.3 million, which we do have in the TIF. But that's not the point.

00:13:02.919 --> 00:13:07.480
Why are we spending the money on a lift station? When they put that development out there,

00:13:07.480 --> 00:13:09.759
they should have paid for water and sewer.

00:13:09.759 --> 00:13:11.159
If they didn't have sewer out there,

00:13:11.159 --> 00:13:14.319
they had no business putting Walmart and Menards out there.

00:13:14.319 --> 00:13:16.919
And Mr. Boyer, I'm telling you this for your benefit

00:13:16.919 --> 00:13:18.279
because you weren't here.

00:13:18.279 --> 00:13:19.799
I'm not blaming you.

00:13:19.799 --> 00:13:22.240
I'm bringing you historical information

00:13:22.240 --> 00:13:24.240
that I hope you will appreciate.

00:13:24.240 --> 00:13:27.680
So right now we've got this same group of creepy thugs

00:13:27.680 --> 00:13:30.080
who are running developments who want a lift station

00:13:30.080 --> 00:13:33.159
to get water and sewer out to Mill Race Crossing

00:13:33.159 --> 00:13:36.539
four or 500 acres, which they bought the land cheap,

00:13:36.539 --> 00:13:38.659
had no water out there and guess what?

00:13:38.659 --> 00:13:42.039
Now we're gonna pay for it with those property taxes

00:13:42.039 --> 00:13:44.539
that Walmart and Menards are paying

00:13:44.539 --> 00:13:47.539
that are supposed to be coming to our police water,

00:13:49.159 --> 00:13:50.759
not water, we pay for water.

00:13:50.759 --> 00:13:53.480
Our police, fire, schools, city,

00:13:53.480 --> 00:13:55.720
we're supposed to be using those property taxes

00:13:55.720 --> 00:13:57.120
to pay for our expenses here.

00:13:57.120 --> 00:13:59.919
But instead, you're being asked to vote now

00:13:59.919 --> 00:14:01.840
to approve engineering costs

00:14:01.840 --> 00:14:03.720
so that we can put a lift station

00:14:03.720 --> 00:14:06.840
so that these, these thug developers

00:14:06.840 --> 00:14:08.799
who are sitting over at the county

00:14:08.799 --> 00:14:11.639
can run water and sewer out to their development

00:14:11.639 --> 00:14:12.720
which doesn't even exist.

00:14:12.720 --> 00:14:13.960
I'm sorry, your time has expired.

00:14:13.960 --> 00:14:14.799
Thank you.

00:14:22.629 --> 00:14:25.829
I'm not sure if the next one is Miranda Blessing.

00:14:25.829 --> 00:14:27.589
Are you actually going to speak?

00:14:27.589 --> 00:14:28.430
No?

00:14:29.269 --> 00:14:30.829
On demolition, you wanna wait?

00:14:35.870 --> 00:14:45.389
Kinsey Graham, item number 10.

00:14:45.389 --> 00:14:46.329
Good evening, council.

00:14:46.329 --> 00:14:50.210
Hello, my name is Kenji Graham with State Line Solar on behalf of Harmony UMC.

00:14:50.210 --> 00:14:56.089
I'd like to address you in terms of item number 10, the approval of the ground-mounted solar

00:14:56.089 --> 00:14:57.730
array on the property.

00:14:57.730 --> 00:15:03.529
Mostly, I just wanted to answer the questions that came up from the first reading.

00:15:03.529 --> 00:15:07.690
That being, why not put solar panels on the roof?

00:15:07.690 --> 00:15:11.389
Main reason to not put panels on the roof is because it's due to be replaced soon,

00:15:11.389 --> 00:15:15.769
and that would add extra cost to the church to have to remove them and put them back up

00:15:15.769 --> 00:15:18.610
at that time.

00:15:18.610 --> 00:15:26.690
We also moved it to the back of the property to remain out of sight as per the code request

00:15:26.690 --> 00:15:32.850
and our sizing of that ground mounted system does comply with the current ordinances as

00:15:32.850 --> 00:15:35.690
they are today.

00:15:35.690 --> 00:15:37.170
Thank you very much.

00:15:37.170 --> 00:15:38.170
Thank you.

00:15:38.170 --> 00:15:40.329
Akia Sanders on item number 23.

00:15:40.329 --> 00:15:47.019
Let me try to make this as quick as possible.

00:15:47.019 --> 00:15:48.019
It's a lot to cover.

00:15:48.019 --> 00:15:52.059
Cover. I'm going to show you how God revealed everything on this agenda that you say that

00:15:52.059 --> 00:15:56.539
don't have nothing to do with it. The root is Wayne Duckman. Wayne is responsible for

00:15:56.539 --> 00:16:01.079
knocking down these houses that does not have to be knocked down. We are in a housing crisis

00:16:01.079 --> 00:16:05.279
right now, and we're looking at the man to give him some money, a contract. After he

00:16:05.279 --> 00:16:09.779
quit on Freeport, he quit, put his two weeks in, don't want nothing to do with us, but

00:16:09.779 --> 00:16:10.779
Boyer.

00:16:10.779 --> 00:16:16.059
He won $1,000 for 16 hours a week.

00:16:16.059 --> 00:16:17.059
That's insane.

00:16:17.059 --> 00:16:18.059
Insane.

00:16:18.059 --> 00:16:19.220
We're in a housing crisis.

00:16:19.220 --> 00:16:21.980
Rob Boyer, it's your time to put on a Superman cape.

00:16:21.980 --> 00:16:24.420
Try to act like you care about the community.

00:16:24.420 --> 00:16:27.500
We are a rural community.

00:16:27.500 --> 00:16:30.819
Rural means you guys have made the rules to fit your needs.

00:16:30.819 --> 00:16:37.059
Now it's time to make the rules to fit the community needs and what they actually need.

00:16:37.059 --> 00:16:39.100
Farmer, Don, Mara, Nat King.

00:16:39.100 --> 00:16:40.779
So we all need to know this.

00:16:40.779 --> 00:16:42.660
And have you worked through those properties

00:16:42.660 --> 00:16:44.860
and seen if they honestly need to be knocked down?

00:16:44.860 --> 00:16:47.980
Wayne Duckman is very vindictive.

00:16:47.980 --> 00:16:50.100
He harasses a lot of people.

00:16:50.100 --> 00:16:53.100
He gives all kinds of hell to a lot of people

00:16:53.100 --> 00:16:55.720
only because they are consistent and hustling.

00:16:55.720 --> 00:16:57.839
He mad because he got to do a job.

00:16:57.839 --> 00:17:01.339
He the left his job five times.

00:17:01.339 --> 00:17:03.180
And now you, putting on a contract,

00:17:03.180 --> 00:17:06.059
you want to give him some money for begging him to stay.

00:17:06.059 --> 00:17:07.059
Fowler.

00:17:07.059 --> 00:17:12.539
I can't believe out of those nine people we don't have one that can do more than 16 hours

00:17:12.539 --> 00:17:14.740
a week.

00:17:14.740 --> 00:17:18.980
He's a reason that all of our whole community is failing.

00:17:18.980 --> 00:17:24.180
He's a reason that the progress for the Eastside projects, he's trying to stop that.

00:17:24.180 --> 00:17:28.180
And your whole election was ran off Chicago slum landlords and I ain't going to believe

00:17:28.180 --> 00:17:31.880
that you can't do nothing about one coming here and trying to fix it.

00:17:31.880 --> 00:17:33.220
Make it so it fits the cap.

00:17:33.220 --> 00:17:39.599
Dugman. You cannot do 500 to 1,000. You cannot make somebody pay that much. You are in control.

00:17:39.599 --> 00:17:43.740
Maybe you guys don't care because half of y'all are living good. But it's people that need

00:17:43.740 --> 00:17:49.339
help. Social Security, low-income jobs. You ain't got no jobs here, Rob. Freeport Partnership

00:17:49.339 --> 00:17:55.860
ain't created a thing, I see. It's time for somebody to do something that's done for the

00:17:55.860 --> 00:18:00.019
community. Keep your topic on the contract. It is the contract. Wayne Dugman needs to

00:18:00.019 --> 00:18:08.099
Duckman has to go. Wayne Duckman has to go. Don't beg a man to stay that has torn down

00:18:08.099 --> 00:18:14.099
the community in a way we can't live. Go through the properties once. How often do you go over

00:18:14.099 --> 00:18:19.099
there? How often do you trail those properties that have been torn down? Mine, for one, didn't

00:18:19.099 --> 00:18:23.819
need to be torn down. It couldn't want to some of these families. But instead, he wanted

00:18:23.819 --> 00:18:37.460
Don't look down, look up, look at the people you're about to fail, but 2027 you can count

00:18:37.460 --> 00:18:46.320
your blessings and get out of here.

00:18:46.320 --> 00:18:52.980
Cheryl Altman on item number 23.

00:18:52.980 --> 00:18:58.579
Mine is also concerning Wayne Duckman and Rob.

00:18:58.579 --> 00:19:00.039
I've tried to talk to Rob.

00:19:00.039 --> 00:19:05.039
I have an eight-unit apartment building that can get fixed up, but because Wayne's got

00:19:05.039 --> 00:19:07.039
to bug up his ass against me too.

00:19:07.039 --> 00:19:10.200
Anikia, shake your head yes, Wayne, I know it.

00:19:10.200 --> 00:19:13.880
All these people, eight units, can you imagine how many families I could put in that eight

00:19:13.880 --> 00:19:15.519
unit?

00:19:15.519 --> 00:19:18.720
Get off your ass and let us fix this property so that these people have a place to live.

00:19:18.720 --> 00:19:21.039
Okay, let's not swear or you're done.

00:19:21.039 --> 00:19:22.039
Don't swear at him.

00:19:22.039 --> 00:19:23.039
At all.

00:19:23.039 --> 00:19:26.279
But it's okay that he can rip people off.

00:19:26.279 --> 00:19:28.400
What am I talking about?

00:19:28.400 --> 00:19:31.240
Rans, and

00:19:31.240 --> 00:19:34.420
you can also go to the website,

00:19:34.420 --> 00:19:36.860
there's another exception too.

00:19:36.860 --> 00:19:40.799
But you guys sit here, these people are looking for homes.

00:19:40.799 --> 00:19:45.970
Give me the permit so that I can fix this back up.

00:19:45.970 --> 00:19:48.009
You already stole one of my houses.

00:19:48.009 --> 00:19:50.009
If you think you're going to get this one,

00:19:50.009 --> 00:19:55.309
you're going to have a fight.

00:19:55.309 --> 00:19:59.070
Next is Joseline Risley.

00:19:59.070 --> 00:20:01.269
I'm sure I'm saying that terribly wrong.

00:20:01.269 --> 00:20:03.759
I did want to speak on the impact of demolitions and outside takeover.

00:20:03.759 --> 00:20:07.599
Okay, but the item that you spoke on is the contract.

00:20:07.599 --> 00:20:10.759
Yes, and that's part of the demolitions, correct?

00:20:10.759 --> 00:20:11.759
No.

00:20:11.759 --> 00:20:14.240
No, from 23, 26, and 27?

00:20:14.240 --> 00:20:15.720
You wrote down item number 23.

00:20:15.720 --> 00:20:17.920
Oh, I'm sorry.

00:20:17.920 --> 00:20:22.680
So if you want to talk about the bid package, you want to talk about those eight bid package

00:20:22.680 --> 00:20:23.680
things?

00:20:23.680 --> 00:20:24.680
Yes, the eight and the nine.

00:20:24.680 --> 00:20:25.680
Is it 23?

00:20:25.680 --> 00:20:28.019
We have something specific about bid package stuff.

00:20:28.019 --> 00:20:29.079
You can talk about it.

00:20:29.079 --> 00:20:33.599
Yes, it's in addition to the recent rent hikes,

00:20:33.599 --> 00:20:36.319
it also is including the several properties

00:20:36.319 --> 00:20:40.200
that have been demolitioned over the last few years.

00:20:40.200 --> 00:20:42.799
Is this not the appropriate time to speak about that?

00:20:44.480 --> 00:20:47.000
So those items that are on the agenda about demolition,

00:20:47.000 --> 00:20:51.519
they're voting to accept a bid to demolish

00:20:51.519 --> 00:20:52.599
a certain group of properties here.

00:20:52.599 --> 00:20:54.119
So if you're talking about old properties,

00:20:54.119 --> 00:20:55.079
then it's not on point.

00:20:55.079 --> 00:20:58.039
if you're talking about these properties then you can that's on point it's in

00:20:58.039 --> 00:21:01.599
addition to that it's it's the the big picture of it I know that there are

00:21:01.599 --> 00:21:06.200
additional properties that are proposed to being demolitioned but it's in

00:21:06.200 --> 00:21:10.000
addition to what's already been done it's they kind of go hand in hand if you

00:21:10.000 --> 00:21:14.319
will probably then you can certainly talk about that but it's probably meant

00:21:14.319 --> 00:21:18.920
for the public comment at the end of the meeting because it's a non-agenda item

00:21:18.920 --> 00:21:22.480
but it's an addition to what and I don't mean to go back and forth with you and

00:21:22.480 --> 00:21:24.480
and

00:21:25.599 --> 00:21:27.599
John.

00:21:28.880 --> 00:21:30.920
I'm not going to waste more of my allotted time. But it's in

00:21:30.920 --> 00:21:34.920
addition to the properties that are looking to be demolitioned

00:21:34.920 --> 00:21:36.920
because it's causing just a greater strife for the residents

00:21:36.920 --> 00:21:40.920
of the Freeport community because it leaves even less areas

00:21:40.920 --> 00:21:44.920
for them to reside. And it is related to the rent increase,

00:21:44.920 --> 00:21:46.920
which of course is not on the agenda.

00:21:48.920 --> 00:21:50.920
Yes, I understand.

00:21:50.920 --> 00:22:06.920
I think your comments are going to have to wait till the end because I just don't think they're really not about the bid packet. The bid packet is who's the lowest bidder? What's the price to demolish it?

00:22:06.920 --> 00:22:10.920
I understand that that's your perspective on it, and I will respect that. So I'd be happy to see that.

00:22:10.920 --> 00:22:22.920
I understand that that's your perspective on it, and I will respect that, so I'd be happy to speak later in the meeting. Thank you.

00:22:22.920 --> 00:22:29.420
Thank you. That concludes public comments.

00:22:29.420 --> 00:23:10.660
We don't have executive session. It's always a standing item. We don't have anything on there.

00:23:10.660 --> 00:23:13.079
Just so you know we're not going into executive session

00:23:14.740 --> 00:23:41.259
Okay, go ahead. My name is Robert Holt. I am the AFSCME Council 31 staff representative for local

00:23:41.900 --> 00:23:45.139
3367 the municipal employees of the city of Freeport. I

00:23:46.059 --> 00:23:48.660
Received this letter that they've asked me to read today

00:23:49.180 --> 00:23:54.860
So I'll begin over the past few years public works has been promised a $5 an hour increase

00:23:54.860 --> 00:23:57.579
Thomas, that they have not received.

00:23:57.579 --> 00:24:00.980
And now that the city does not want to come through, now the city does not want to come

00:24:00.980 --> 00:24:01.980
through on their problems.

00:24:01.980 --> 00:24:07.299
In 2019, the local took a 0% increase because the city said they did not have the funds

00:24:07.299 --> 00:24:10.259
to give us our negotiated increase.

00:24:10.259 --> 00:24:15.019
And after the city got their COVID money, they only gave it to the police and fire pensions

00:24:15.019 --> 00:24:17.019
and no one else.

00:24:17.019 --> 00:24:21.220
Without the street department, the city would be paying millions more to get streets paved.

00:24:21.220 --> 00:24:27.180
Winter, the streets would not get plowed to ensure safe traveling for our citizens and

00:24:27.180 --> 00:24:32.700
police and fire. Without the water and sewer construction crews, we would have to pay someone

00:24:32.700 --> 00:24:37.700
else thousands to fix main breaks. You would also have to figure out who was going to run

00:24:37.700 --> 00:24:44.059
sewer lines when they get backed up and don't flow properly. Without the telecommunicators,

00:24:44.059 --> 00:24:48.819
all the calls would be directed to other agencies, which would take even longer to dispatch our

00:24:48.819 --> 00:24:51.619
are officers and fire department personnel.

00:24:53.039 --> 00:24:54.720
Without the water treatment crews,

00:24:54.720 --> 00:24:56.779
there would not be safe drinking water.

00:24:56.779 --> 00:24:59.220
If there is no fire, if there is a fire,

00:24:59.220 --> 00:25:00.900
no one will be there to turn up the pumps

00:25:00.900 --> 00:25:03.860
to help support the water supply needed to put out fires.

00:25:05.360 --> 00:25:06.940
So pay us what you owe us,

00:25:06.940 --> 00:25:22.950
because if you don't pay, we don't stay.

00:25:22.950 --> 00:25:25.230
Okay, item number five is the consent agenda.

00:25:25.230 --> 00:25:27.589
The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature

00:25:27.589 --> 00:25:28.710
unless there's a member of the council

00:25:28.710 --> 00:25:29.869
who would like to have something removed

00:25:29.869 --> 00:25:31.029
for further discussion.

00:25:33.860 --> 00:26:03.860
The consent agenda is approving to receive in place on file the board and commission minutes from the Planning Commission, May 8th, June 12th, 2025, the Zoning Board of Appeals, June 5th, 2025, Board of Fire and Police Commissioners, June 24th, July 1st, 2025, Finance and Cash and Investment Reports for June 2025, the Greater Freeport Partnership, July 2025, Building Permit, Fire Department, and Police Department Reports for July 2025,

00:26:03.860 --> 00:26:10.259
The finance bill is payable in the total of $5,658,211.16

00:26:10.259 --> 00:26:19.460
and payroll for pay period ending July 26, 2025 in the total of $685,042.99

00:26:19.460 --> 00:26:28.180
and payroll for ending August 8, 2025 in the total of $671,983.85

00:26:28.180 --> 00:26:30.819
Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda?

00:26:30.819 --> 00:26:31.700
So moved.

00:26:31.700 --> 00:26:32.500
Second.

00:26:32.500 --> 00:26:39.400
We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

00:26:39.400 --> 00:26:52.900
Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Oh, I'm sorry. Ann Parker? Aye.

00:26:52.900 --> 00:27:03.099
The motion passes 5 to 2. Item number 6 is appointments. Could you please read?

00:27:03.099 --> 00:27:08.700
Conny Kraft to the ADA Commission, effective immediately through May 31st, 2029.

00:27:08.700 --> 00:27:10.500
Is there a motion to approve?

00:27:10.500 --> 00:27:11.500
So move.

00:27:11.500 --> 00:27:12.500
Second.

00:27:12.500 --> 00:27:17.500
A motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

00:27:17.500 --> 00:27:18.500
Discussion?

00:27:18.500 --> 00:27:20.500
Alderman Stacy?

00:27:20.500 --> 00:27:24.819
Why Conny Kraft?

00:27:24.819 --> 00:27:30.079
She served previously on an old commission that was stood up years ago.

00:27:30.079 --> 00:27:34.200
She expressed interest, asked if she could be a part, and I had an opening.

00:27:34.200 --> 00:27:37.480
She's an outstanding citizen in this city.

00:27:37.480 --> 00:27:38.480
Is she what?

00:27:38.480 --> 00:27:40.559
Is she an outstanding citizen in this city?

00:27:40.559 --> 00:27:43.720
She's very involved in this city.

00:27:43.720 --> 00:27:48.119
I wouldn't put somebody on that I didn't think was outstanding.

00:27:48.119 --> 00:27:52.259
Okay.

00:27:52.259 --> 00:27:56.819
Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

00:27:56.819 --> 00:27:57.819
Stacy?

00:27:57.819 --> 00:27:58.819
Aye.

00:27:58.819 --> 00:27:59.819
Shadle?

00:27:59.819 --> 00:28:00.819
Aye.

00:28:00.819 --> 00:28:01.819
Sanders?

00:28:01.819 --> 00:28:12.139
Johnson, Simmons, still absent and Parker. Motion passes seven to zero. Item number

00:28:12.139 --> 00:28:15.700
seven is the second reading of ordinance 2025-44. Could you please read this?

00:28:15.700 --> 00:28:22.019
Ordinance amending chapter 460, section 460.16, written permits required for

00:28:22.019 --> 00:28:26.420
overweight vehicles of the City of Freeport's code of ordinances. Thank you.

00:28:26.420 --> 00:28:31.340
Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. Just following up, we had our first reading in

00:28:31.340 --> 00:28:38.059
July. This is our second reading and now in August. The staff requests moving

00:28:38.059 --> 00:28:43.059
forward with some changes to the ordinance for oversized vehicles, so

00:28:43.059 --> 00:28:47.320
that'd be creating an overweight and oversized permit form. Permitting

00:28:47.320 --> 00:28:52.779
required within city limits no matter what roads are used within the city. Also

00:28:52.779 --> 00:29:01.139
adding $150 for individual one-time permits, $1,200 for an annual permit. That

00:29:01.139 --> 00:29:05.700
would be for individuals licensed within the city and then $500 penalty for non-compliance

00:29:05.700 --> 00:29:13.279
of permitting. Staff recommends moving forward with this ordinance. Discussion? Alderman Shadle?

00:29:13.279 --> 00:29:25.320
I had a conversation with Garrett Miller from Merrick Crane's, the Crane Service. Yes. He

00:29:25.320 --> 00:29:34.079
He brought to my attention that the state fee, the yearly fee is $1,400 and he felt ours

00:29:34.079 --> 00:29:41.720
was excessive at $1,200 and was hoping we could get that somewhere down more towards

00:29:41.720 --> 00:29:48.829
a $500 range.

00:29:48.829 --> 00:29:49.829
Any other discussion?

00:29:49.829 --> 00:29:55.840
I would just comment we'll make it whatever the council decides to be

00:29:55.840 --> 00:29:56.400
I'll make it whatever the council decides to be.

00:29:56.400 --> 00:30:01.400
I did a little bit of research on different types of fees

00:30:02.019 --> 00:30:06.400
and other communities charged by the overage of weight

00:30:06.400 --> 00:30:08.319
over the 80,000 pounds.

00:30:08.319 --> 00:30:09.960
That would be very difficult for us to do.

00:30:09.960 --> 00:30:13.119
We don't have that kind of employees or tracking time.

00:30:13.119 --> 00:30:16.759
I tried to, you know, make it a break

00:30:16.759 --> 00:30:18.640
rather than doing individual permits.

00:30:18.640 --> 00:30:20.759
There is still time and expense into the city

00:30:20.759 --> 00:30:22.440
every time these vehicles move,

00:30:22.440 --> 00:30:24.960
but it's whatever your guys' pleasure is,

00:30:24.960 --> 00:30:26.519
mine was just a recommendation.

00:30:29.799 --> 00:30:32.680
I'd just like to mention we could probably do

00:30:32.680 --> 00:30:35.880
something like $500, that's unreasonable to council.

00:30:35.880 --> 00:30:37.880
At this time, you know, we don't have anything on the books

00:30:37.880 --> 00:30:39.839
so something's better than nothing, so.

00:30:40.759 --> 00:30:41.599
Alderman Stacey.

00:30:41.599 --> 00:30:45.640
I don't think it's fair to just make up a price here

00:30:45.640 --> 00:30:49.700
based upon what someone is wanting.

00:30:49.700 --> 00:30:52.160
If we need to move it to the next meeting

00:30:52.160 --> 00:30:56.039
and re-look at this, then let's all re-look at it.

00:30:56.039 --> 00:31:00.420
But to sit here and change 1200 to 500 tonight,

00:31:01.519 --> 00:31:03.880
I don't think that that's right nor fair.

00:31:06.799 --> 00:31:08.259
Manager Boyer.

00:31:08.259 --> 00:31:09.980
One thing I might want to mention is

00:31:09.980 --> 00:31:12.220
I've only been contacted by one older man

00:31:12.220 --> 00:31:14.859
who is concerned and expressed some interest

00:31:14.859 --> 00:31:18.099
from a local business that will be operating

00:31:18.099 --> 00:31:19.779
overweight within the city.

00:31:19.779 --> 00:31:21.579
And so from that standpoint,

00:31:21.579 --> 00:31:23.920
we did look at various other options,

00:31:23.920 --> 00:31:28.920
but $500 would be a good start on any kind of annual permit

00:31:29.160 --> 00:31:31.480
and that would also keep some of the overhead lower

00:31:31.480 --> 00:31:35.119
for operators that are overweight.

00:31:35.119 --> 00:31:36.359
Alderman Klemm.

00:31:36.359 --> 00:31:41.359
Yes, I know in this, you had eliminated certain vehicles.

00:31:42.660 --> 00:31:47.660
The example that Alderman Shadle used

00:31:48.440 --> 00:31:51.400
is needless to say this guy does a lot of work

00:31:51.400 --> 00:31:53.720
with the cranes a lot around the area

00:31:53.720 --> 00:31:59.240
and needless to say it's got a place in town so he'd be using it all the time. Would there be a

00:31:59.240 --> 00:32:05.160
possibility of putting him into that group that with the garbage trucks so on and so forth?

00:32:06.519 --> 00:32:11.160
I don't believe so. The cranes he operates are fairly large and completely different than a

00:32:11.160 --> 00:32:16.599
garbage truck. They're enormous. So I don't know if Darren wants to chime in on some of that or...

00:32:17.639 --> 00:32:22.440
I talked to the one business they called and they typically run over the weight limit.

00:32:22.440 --> 00:32:23.440
Huffman.

00:32:23.440 --> 00:32:25.720
That's the size of a crane.

00:32:25.720 --> 00:32:32.240
They have multiple cranes, but the one that they, I think, use very regularly is significantly

00:32:32.240 --> 00:32:35.360
overweight.

00:32:35.360 --> 00:32:40.119
Our roads are permitted between 60 and 80,000 pounds, and I think the unit that we discussed

00:32:40.119 --> 00:32:42.000
was about 125,000.

00:32:42.000 --> 00:32:51.039
So the permitting process is really to control where these vehicles operate within the city.

00:32:51.039 --> 00:32:57.960
So for instance, unless we had a crane job at somewhere on Locust Street, I would not

00:32:57.960 --> 00:33:03.059
permit somebody to go drive a hundred thousand pound load down Locust Street because we just

00:33:03.059 --> 00:33:04.220
replaced it.

00:33:04.220 --> 00:33:10.400
So the whole idea behind this permitting process is to map the exact routes that they're traveling.

00:33:10.400 --> 00:33:13.920
It's not just a free pass to do whatever they want whenever they want.

00:33:13.920 --> 00:33:18.880
It is actually to map it out to say, okay, we're, we fixed these streets, so please don't

00:33:18.880 --> 00:33:20.700
operate on these streets.

00:33:20.700 --> 00:33:24.299
as we move through the network and cycle of it, right?

00:33:24.299 --> 00:33:26.860
And that's the people that,

00:33:26.860 --> 00:33:28.539
cause we actually have an ordinance.

00:33:28.539 --> 00:33:30.480
This ordinance is already on the books.

00:33:30.480 --> 00:33:32.980
So we do have people that already submit for permits

00:33:32.980 --> 00:33:35.980
all the time out of town, crane carriers and stuff.

00:33:35.980 --> 00:33:39.819
We just don't have any fees tied to this ordinance.

00:33:39.819 --> 00:33:41.500
It actually already exists.

00:33:41.500 --> 00:33:43.660
I reviewed it with the attorney

00:33:43.660 --> 00:33:46.099
and it just says the fees will be made up

00:33:46.099 --> 00:33:48.740
by the public works director at the end of it.

00:33:48.740 --> 00:33:51.339
and there was no fee schedule and I didn't feel like

00:33:51.339 --> 00:33:52.900
it was right to impose a fee schedule

00:33:52.900 --> 00:33:55.059
that wasn't approved by council.

00:33:55.059 --> 00:33:56.339
Oh, Mr. Sanders?

00:33:56.339 --> 00:34:01.339
Yeah, I'm listening to the scenario that you got

00:34:01.779 --> 00:34:04.900
or the comprehensive conversation that you guys

00:34:04.900 --> 00:34:07.559
are trying to establish before council.

00:34:07.559 --> 00:34:12.559
But we have no comprehensive scaling chart

00:34:13.220 --> 00:34:16.340
for over the road driving here in the city

00:34:16.340 --> 00:34:19.340
and I think we should establish that.

00:34:19.340 --> 00:34:23.139
If we don't have one, we should have one, okay?

00:34:23.139 --> 00:34:25.019
We have one, it's 80,000 pounds.

00:34:25.019 --> 00:34:29.779
No, what I mean is we as council need to be able

00:34:29.779 --> 00:34:33.659
to examine and do an accessibility of those charts

00:34:33.659 --> 00:34:36.619
to see if we're within the guidelines

00:34:36.619 --> 00:34:41.420
of scaling prices, fees and whatever the nine yards is

00:34:41.420 --> 00:34:42.699
on that matter.

00:34:42.699 --> 00:34:47.699
so what I am saying is before we set fees

00:34:49.059 --> 00:34:54.059
and try to impose these fees based upon coming out of our head,

00:34:54.500 --> 00:34:56.380
I like to see this in writing.

00:34:56.380 --> 00:34:59.220
I like to see a chart mapping of the city

00:34:59.220 --> 00:35:02.539
where trucks can drive and cannot drive

00:35:02.539 --> 00:35:05.019
and I like to see that visually

00:35:05.019 --> 00:35:06.539
and I think the people of the city

00:35:06.539 --> 00:35:08.900
would like to see that visually as well.

00:35:08.900 --> 00:35:12.420
When they see trucks driving in certain areas

00:35:12.420 --> 00:35:16.179
that knowing that they have no business in these areas

00:35:16.179 --> 00:35:20.500
but not fine for this kind of traveling,

00:35:20.500 --> 00:35:24.220
I think we need to have a complete overall view

00:35:24.220 --> 00:35:27.059
of what the chart should look like

00:35:27.059 --> 00:35:31.420
when it comes to censoring what trucks are doing

00:35:31.420 --> 00:35:32.900
within the city itself.

00:35:32.900 --> 00:35:36.340
And I think that's, yeah, I'm gonna hold this thing

00:35:36.340 --> 00:35:37.900
for a second until I get done here

00:35:37.900 --> 00:35:40.059
because I may not be able to come back.

00:35:40.059 --> 00:35:45.059
and I like for us to get this thing prioritized

00:35:45.420 --> 00:35:50.420
before we decide to allow this thing to be done.

00:35:50.500 --> 00:35:52.820
I don't know if there's a time limit on it

00:35:52.820 --> 00:35:55.420
or whenever you guys want to implement this program

00:35:55.420 --> 00:35:57.179
or whatever the case may be,

00:35:57.179 --> 00:36:01.019
but if it's not in effect as of now today,

00:36:01.019 --> 00:36:03.579
then before we do that,

00:36:03.579 --> 00:36:07.079
let's have all of our tools in place

00:36:07.079 --> 00:36:09.500
and making sure that council is very aware

00:36:09.500 --> 00:36:11.500
and John.

00:36:12.599 --> 00:36:15.300
We want to have what is being done on these matters and not

00:36:15.300 --> 00:36:19.739
have us listening to something that may happen or may not have

00:36:19.739 --> 00:36:21.760
happened. And things are changing.

00:36:21.760 --> 00:36:26.860
So we want something established that has some form of

00:36:26.860 --> 00:36:30.860
foundation that we can go to all together, not only that, but

00:36:30.860 --> 00:36:33.860
even be placed on our website where people can have

00:36:33.860 --> 00:36:36.860
accessibility to these kinds of things.

00:36:36.860 --> 00:36:38.860
So that's my recommendation.

00:36:39.500 --> 00:36:44.380
to keep the integrity of the ordinance valuable

00:36:44.380 --> 00:36:48.800
to the city of Freeport.

00:36:48.800 --> 00:36:49.639
Oldham and Stacy.

00:36:50.679 --> 00:36:52.960
I would just like to make a motion that we move this

00:36:52.960 --> 00:36:55.800
to the first meeting in September

00:36:58.000 --> 00:37:00.880
where we can get clarity for those who need clarity

00:37:00.880 --> 00:37:02.079
or want clarity.

00:37:03.720 --> 00:37:08.720
And I don't think it's fair to start adjusting prices.

00:37:08.720 --> 00:37:20.720
We support who we want and who we don't, we don't.

00:37:20.720 --> 00:37:27.720
This is a prime example of willing to drop from $1,200 to $500 because of one business,

00:37:27.720 --> 00:37:36.420
which Director Darren Steckel said is over a thousand pound truck.

00:37:36.420 --> 00:37:42.420
Okay, we have a motion on the floor to move this ordinance to the next regular scheduled meeting. Is there a second?

00:37:42.420 --> 00:37:44.420
Second.

00:37:44.420 --> 00:37:45.420
Mayor?

00:37:45.420 --> 00:37:46.420
Sure.

00:37:46.420 --> 00:37:51.420
Can I respond to Mr. Sanders' comment just for some clarity?

00:37:51.420 --> 00:38:00.420
So currently, the way the ordinance exists, anybody can drive anywhere they want without any issue, right?

00:38:00.420 --> 00:38:05.340
and so if you're a truck that's under the legal moving weight which is 80,000

00:38:05.340 --> 00:38:09.059
pounds they can drive up and down every street in Freeport without any control

00:38:09.059 --> 00:38:13.860
and it's not illegal for them to do it we don't have routes that are cars only

00:38:13.860 --> 00:38:18.779
or or non truck routes right so they can go wherever they want this is really for

00:38:18.779 --> 00:38:24.679
the oversized overweight loads to ensure that they're just not cruising down our

00:38:24.679 --> 00:38:30.019
streets that we're repairing without any control we have no control mechanism

00:38:30.019 --> 00:38:33.420
Right now, we have an ordinance that can't be enforced,

00:38:33.420 --> 00:38:35.460
because we have no penalty.

00:38:35.460 --> 00:38:38.099
So we're trying to put some teeth to it.

00:38:38.099 --> 00:38:39.940
I have done research on this.

00:38:39.940 --> 00:38:44.340
What I have proposed is what most communities have.

00:38:44.340 --> 00:38:47.460
The fee can, I don't want to say it's negotiable,

00:38:47.460 --> 00:38:49.500
but it's whatever you guys feel is fair.

00:38:49.500 --> 00:38:51.900
I personally, I did not talk to this business,

00:38:51.900 --> 00:38:53.699
but I talked to other businesses.

00:38:53.699 --> 00:38:55.380
And the fee that I proposed, they felt

00:38:55.380 --> 00:38:58.139
was fair, based on other communities

00:38:58.139 --> 00:38:59.739
and how they move their loads.

00:38:59.739 --> 00:39:06.300
currently the way the state moves vehicles around the city excuse me the the the state of Illinois

00:39:06.300 --> 00:39:11.260
moves vehicles they fill out a permit and in that permit that they supply to the state it says you

00:39:11.260 --> 00:39:17.900
have to get permission or permitting from local jurisdictions we have found many trucks that drive

00:39:17.900 --> 00:39:23.340
down our residential streets with no permitting process that are way overweight i'm trying to get

00:39:23.340 --> 00:39:28.139
control of this because we're investing millions and millions of dollars into streets that we

00:39:28.139 --> 00:39:34.779
Don't Want Destroyed. This is just an extension of our street program. I will say that the

00:39:34.779 --> 00:39:41.980
one person that called in, now if he's doing an RDA to develop his business in the future,

00:39:41.980 --> 00:39:46.179
we know where he's going to be at. So when we reconstruct that street, we will make that

00:39:46.179 --> 00:39:52.320
street of heavier pavement and size to handle those loads day in and day out. That doesn't

00:39:52.320 --> 00:39:54.039
That doesn't mean that there shouldn't be a permitting process.

00:39:54.039 --> 00:39:54.760
That doesn't mean that there shouldn't be a permitting process for it.

00:39:54.760 --> 00:39:57.199
This is very typical per community.

00:39:57.199 --> 00:39:59.360
Some places have automated systems.

00:39:59.360 --> 00:40:03.900
We don't have enough truck traffic to have these automated systems to do the work.

00:40:03.900 --> 00:40:07.480
So again, just my clarity on it.

00:40:07.480 --> 00:40:08.480
Manager Boyer.

00:40:08.480 --> 00:40:13.079
The purpose of first and second reading is to allow time for people to have things settle

00:40:13.079 --> 00:40:14.079
in.

00:40:14.079 --> 00:40:17.280
I think this was one of the points that was brought up after the first reading was this

00:40:17.280 --> 00:40:19.760
seems excessively high.

00:40:19.760 --> 00:40:49.760
because we have nothing now. I personally don't see an issue with Lower Oregon to making it $500 and then we'll see how things go in the future. But whether it's 500 and 1200, it's not going to change the our ability to repair roads and that will continue to do that. So staff just recommends moving forward with the amended the amended amount. I made a motion. Why are we still talking? I want to come back to that. That was that's why I let them say as department heads to say what they want to. But we do have a motion on the floor. You're correct. Okay. So the motion

00:40:49.760 --> 00:40:54.599
on the floor, seconded by Alderman Sanders, is to move this on to the next regular scheduled

00:40:54.599 --> 00:40:55.599
meeting.

00:40:55.599 --> 00:41:00.519
So, if there's any discussion on that motion itself, otherwise, Madam Clerk, would you

00:41:00.519 --> 00:41:01.519
please take the role?

00:41:01.519 --> 00:41:02.519
On that?

00:41:02.519 --> 00:41:03.519
Yes, on that.

00:41:03.519 --> 00:41:12.199
I'm just wondering, if it was the first reading on, well, I wasn't here on the committee

00:41:12.199 --> 00:41:18.840
as a whole, and that was on 7-14?

00:41:18.840 --> 00:41:24.079
So we've had a whole week or so to look over all of this. I do think that just

00:41:24.079 --> 00:41:28.199
staying at the 1,200, if that's what they brought it the first time, just stand at

00:41:28.199 --> 00:41:34.039
that and moving forward to keep things moving. But I think if we already looked

00:41:34.039 --> 00:41:39.400
at it at 714 and they talked about it as a committee as a whole, why are we...

00:41:39.400 --> 00:41:43.320
You're correct. This is our third meeting of discussion. Yes, that's what I'm saying.

00:41:43.320 --> 00:41:48.679
So on Alderman Stacey's motion to move this, Madam Clerk, could you please take

00:41:48.679 --> 00:41:56.579
May I say something? If we stick at what was given to us, if we stick at what we've looked

00:41:56.579 --> 00:42:06.150
at for the last three weeks, I would withdraw my motion.

00:42:06.150 --> 00:42:15.699
But we haven't made an amendment yet. So are you withdrawing your motion then?

00:42:15.699 --> 00:42:22.059
Are we going to move forward with this as is? Someone would have to make a motion to amend

00:42:22.059 --> 00:42:23.900
and the change.

00:42:23.900 --> 00:42:25.420
No, I'm not talking about changing it.

00:42:25.420 --> 00:42:27.579
I'm talking about leaving it at $1,200 and moving forward.

00:42:27.579 --> 00:42:28.699
That's the way it is right now.

00:42:28.699 --> 00:42:29.340
As is.

00:42:29.340 --> 00:42:30.019
As is.

00:42:30.019 --> 00:42:31.380
That's what I'll say.

00:42:31.380 --> 00:42:32.139
Alderman Sanders?

00:42:32.139 --> 00:42:34.139
That's what I'll say.

00:42:34.139 --> 00:42:40.460
Comment on reestablishing what this

00:42:40.460 --> 00:42:45.139
sounds like is being placed in a position of hastiness.

00:42:45.139 --> 00:42:48.579
That's what it sounds like to me right now at this moment.

00:42:48.579 --> 00:42:51.659
And I don't like that kind of feeling that I'm getting.

00:42:51.659 --> 00:42:56.659
I like all the data information that Bryan is recommending,

00:42:57.780 --> 00:43:00.980
what he is stating right now before us.

00:43:00.980 --> 00:43:05.460
All of this data information and related to this issue

00:43:05.460 --> 00:43:08.900
should be brought before us so we can see that.

00:43:08.900 --> 00:43:13.099
Well, for three weeks we have not seen tangible data.

00:43:13.099 --> 00:43:16.659
I'm looking for tangible data assessment,

00:43:16.659 --> 00:43:20.420
the assessment of what we're discussing right now.

00:43:20.420 --> 00:43:23.619
and I think it requires more than just

00:43:24.699 --> 00:43:28.500
us having these small discussions here at council.

00:43:28.500 --> 00:43:30.559
These type of things needs to be

00:43:32.199 --> 00:43:36.460
overviewed by a larger agenda

00:43:36.460 --> 00:43:40.019
far as how are we gonna get down to the nitty gritty

00:43:40.019 --> 00:43:43.300
of all of the things that we're trying to recommend

00:43:43.300 --> 00:43:46.900
to the city and suggest for the city.

00:43:46.900 --> 00:43:49.500
I think there's more variations of data

00:43:49.500 --> 00:43:53.860
that could be implemented to the council and it's not done.

00:43:53.860 --> 00:43:55.380
This is not coming forward.

00:43:55.380 --> 00:44:00.380
So I'm just giving, I'm just saying I love Boyer, Darren

00:44:02.099 --> 00:44:04.179
to give us a little bit more information

00:44:04.179 --> 00:44:06.659
on how we're going to assess all of this

00:44:06.659 --> 00:44:09.820
and let the people of the city know

00:44:09.820 --> 00:44:13.220
where the clarity comes in so they can digest

00:44:13.220 --> 00:44:15.139
what we're trying to do here.

00:44:15.139 --> 00:44:19.340
And I'm just saying, I don't like us coming to council

00:44:19.340 --> 00:44:23.980
just talking about something, and I also want to direct

00:44:23.980 --> 00:44:28.980
my attention to our city clerk as much as I can.

00:44:29.300 --> 00:44:33.220
Any time that we are having these meetings,

00:44:33.220 --> 00:44:38.220
I know she brings it out in a format for council to see,

00:44:41.380 --> 00:44:45.179
not only for council to see or to hear,

00:44:45.179 --> 00:44:48.860
but she brings it in a format

00:44:48.860 --> 00:44:53.860
of tangible documents so we can revert back to it,

00:44:54.420 --> 00:44:58.179
recite back to it, or go back over what it is

00:44:58.179 --> 00:45:00.220
that we've been discussing.

00:45:00.220 --> 00:45:02.820
When I see this kind of format that is happening

00:45:02.820 --> 00:45:05.579
within the city council by the clerk,

00:45:05.579 --> 00:45:08.260
I prefer us to have that before us

00:45:08.260 --> 00:45:13.260
so we can go line by line knowing exactly what was said,

00:45:13.860 --> 00:45:17.599
how it was said, what was being done,

00:45:17.599 --> 00:45:21.760
and what the citizens of the city of Freeport is listening to.

00:45:21.760 --> 00:45:26.679
I think it's more, it brings us back to the center

00:45:26.679 --> 00:45:28.079
to where all of this came from,

00:45:28.079 --> 00:45:32.599
because right now we have nothing tangible before us.

00:45:32.599 --> 00:45:37.599
And so I would like for us to continue that sequence

00:45:38.199 --> 00:45:43.199
of documents or data before council,

00:45:43.320 --> 00:45:46.720
before we even start the process of anything on the agenda.

00:45:46.720 --> 00:45:50.279
and let the council be able to briefly look over

00:45:50.279 --> 00:45:53.400
the things that we have been discussing through council

00:45:53.400 --> 00:45:56.920
on a weekly basis so we can keep it refreshed

00:45:56.920 --> 00:45:58.679
in our mind of what we've talked about

00:45:58.679 --> 00:46:03.599
because trying to say that what we've done two weeks ago

00:46:03.599 --> 00:46:06.480
does not all the time is retained

00:46:06.480 --> 00:46:08.679
of information that should be there.

00:46:08.679 --> 00:46:11.380
And we're talking about it and we're discussing it.

00:46:11.380 --> 00:46:15.000
So I think the council should be able to revert back to it

00:46:15.000 --> 00:46:18.699
and refresh their memory on things that has been said

00:46:18.699 --> 00:46:20.739
over the council chamber.

00:46:20.739 --> 00:46:22.460
And that's my recommendation.

00:46:22.460 --> 00:46:24.179
I think that should happen.

00:46:24.179 --> 00:46:25.980
And let's move forward with that

00:46:25.980 --> 00:46:27.739
because I'm listening to it,

00:46:27.739 --> 00:46:30.260
but I'm not getting enough data.

00:46:30.260 --> 00:46:31.340
That's what I'm not getting.

00:46:31.340 --> 00:46:32.659
We're talking about things

00:46:32.659 --> 00:46:34.820
that does not have a track record.

00:46:34.820 --> 00:46:35.659
Alderman Sanders.

00:46:35.659 --> 00:46:37.079
I didn't know I had a time.

00:46:37.079 --> 00:46:38.760
Yes, you have a time late.

00:46:38.760 --> 00:46:40.340
Manager Boyer, did you want to respond to that?

00:46:40.340 --> 00:46:41.179
And then we have to go back to the motion.

00:46:41.179 --> 00:46:42.900
I did, just a quick minute.

00:46:42.900 --> 00:46:44.420
Alderman Sanders, we've talked a couple of times

00:46:44.420 --> 00:46:45.420
Johnson.

00:46:45.420 --> 00:46:57.940
We have had scheduled times for a minimum of six to eight months, and we have not had

00:46:57.940 --> 00:46:59.420
a time to sit down.

00:46:59.420 --> 00:47:02.579
So I haven't had the opportunity to discuss those questions with you.

00:47:02.579 --> 00:47:05.940
So we have an upcoming meeting, and I hope we can get together then.

00:47:05.940 --> 00:47:06.940
Okay.

00:47:06.940 --> 00:47:07.940
Okay.

00:47:07.940 --> 00:47:11.260
So back to there's still a motion on the floor, Alderman Stacey, what do you want to do with

00:47:11.260 --> 00:47:15.300
that?

00:47:15.300 --> 00:47:16.300
Okay.

00:47:16.300 --> 00:47:17.300
I have a question.

00:47:17.300 --> 00:47:23.739
or if I pull my motion in hopes that it move forward as it is,

00:47:25.900 --> 00:47:30.059
but then someone else make a motion to amend it,

00:47:30.059 --> 00:47:31.380
that can happen?

00:47:31.380 --> 00:47:32.220
Yes, it can.

00:47:40.220 --> 00:47:45.220
You know, it's like we respect Darren's opinion on everything.

00:47:49.920 --> 00:47:52.659
I mean, it's like Fehr Graham runs this city.

00:47:52.659 --> 00:48:01.940
He has an opinion on everything and we give him the floor to express and respect his opinion.

00:48:01.940 --> 00:48:11.889
And so I don't understand why it can't be respected now.

00:48:11.889 --> 00:48:22.610
So in good faith that we're going to move forward as we have talked about the last three

00:48:22.610 --> 00:48:28.880
Weeks, as well has been presented.

00:48:28.880 --> 00:48:32.679
I will remove my motion.

00:48:32.679 --> 00:48:36.440
Oldman Sanders, will you remove your second?

00:48:36.440 --> 00:48:37.000
I will.

00:48:37.000 --> 00:48:42.320
I like to do that based upon what our city clerk presents

00:48:42.320 --> 00:48:44.880
to us from this day forward.

00:48:44.880 --> 00:48:47.599
She's been doing the job.

00:48:47.599 --> 00:48:50.360
I commend her for that because it does keep us

00:48:50.360 --> 00:48:51.360
and John.

00:48:51.360 --> 00:49:11.639
So, I'm asking you if you'll remove your second.

00:49:11.639 --> 00:49:13.360
Oh, yes, I will remove it.

00:49:13.360 --> 00:49:14.360
Okay.

00:49:14.360 --> 00:49:17.079
So, now we're back to the original ordinance on the second reading.

00:49:17.079 --> 00:49:18.079
Is there any discussion?

00:49:18.079 --> 00:49:19.079
Alderman Klemm.

00:49:19.079 --> 00:49:20.079
Yes.

00:49:20.079 --> 00:49:44.079
Deren, this is a question. Understanding the ordinance, basically, do I see two parts of this? One is basically the financial end of it, but the main thing is, if this goes through, basically, then you're going to work with that person on it, whether it be daily or whatever basis, to plan their route of where they're going with their heavy equipment, correct?

00:49:44.079 --> 00:49:52.000
Correct. Our process, and I've talked to a couple people on that, is they submit an email with their route, if they're an annual.

00:49:52.000 --> 00:50:20.000
with their route. If they're an annual, they submit it with a route and we approve it if there's no issues with that route. If it's, I keep using Locust Street because everybody knows it. If it would be down Locust Street, I would say no reroute and go down West Street, right? Which we have with the permit process, we have that opportunity to do that because we're reviewing their path. You also have to remember, you know, the local people that truck through Freeport all the time, they're moving trucks, you

00:50:20.000 --> 00:50:21.000
Fowler.

00:50:21.000 --> 00:50:39.679
I don't, I guess I tend to agree with City Manager Boyer that I don't think the amount

00:50:39.679 --> 00:50:43.159
is as important as the process, right?

00:50:43.159 --> 00:50:46.800
So, but I'm fine with whatever I suggested.

00:50:46.800 --> 00:50:54.039
but myself and the public works team, what little research we could do because you have

00:50:54.039 --> 00:50:59.139
to remember something in a city of Freeport, whether we're talking about water or sewer

00:50:59.139 --> 00:51:02.739
or roads, the city of Freeport has its own DNA, right?

00:51:02.739 --> 00:51:05.079
Our costs are different than other towns costs.

00:51:05.079 --> 00:51:07.920
Our staff size is different than other staff size.

00:51:07.920 --> 00:51:12.199
So what may work for one town won't work for another.

00:51:12.199 --> 00:51:14.199
That being said, you know, I'm flexible.

00:51:14.199 --> 00:51:16.019
We're not trying to drive people out of Freeport.

00:51:16.019 --> 00:51:24.099
We're just trying to make it a system that's used and can be monitored and tracked by the

00:51:24.099 --> 00:51:30.820
public works team and the movements through town to eliminate failing roads and issues.

00:51:30.820 --> 00:51:31.820
That's what it's for.

00:51:31.820 --> 00:51:32.820
Alderman Johnson.

00:51:32.820 --> 00:51:38.679
So like you just said, the main purpose of this is to try to protect our roads that we've

00:51:38.679 --> 00:51:43.639
already done and try not to break down the roads that we haven't been able to get to

00:51:43.639 --> 00:51:44.440
and

00:51:44.440 --> 00:51:47.800
to try to make them so they're at least drivable.

00:51:47.800 --> 00:51:52.199
Also you have, you said you've asked other cities

00:51:52.199 --> 00:51:56.519
kind of what they, you've done some research other places kind of what they

00:51:56.519 --> 00:51:59.280
charge and that sort of thing.

00:51:59.280 --> 00:52:02.559
And again, some of the bigger towns

00:52:02.559 --> 00:52:07.239
that we have to compare to, they have very sophisticated systems similar to

00:52:07.239 --> 00:52:08.280
the state

00:52:08.280 --> 00:52:11.639
where it's all automated processes, people get an annual thing and then they

00:52:11.639 --> 00:52:13.840
and they turn in their routes and things like that.

00:52:13.840 --> 00:52:16.199
And some of them like Rockford's,

00:52:16.199 --> 00:52:18.480
if you look at theirs, they pay by the pound.

00:52:18.480 --> 00:52:20.239
We don't have scale systems

00:52:20.239 --> 00:52:22.159
and those would cost an immense amount of money

00:52:22.159 --> 00:52:23.760
to put scale systems in.

00:52:23.760 --> 00:52:27.320
So we actually have the owners figure out their weight

00:52:27.320 --> 00:52:30.199
on their own and show that to us if they're overweight.

00:52:30.199 --> 00:52:33.440
Again, I mean, we spent a lot of time talking about this.

00:52:33.440 --> 00:52:35.320
We're probably talking in the neighborhood

00:52:35.320 --> 00:52:39.039
of five to 10 trucks a month, honestly,

00:52:39.039 --> 00:52:41.840
and others that are running overweight, right?

00:52:41.840 --> 00:52:43.340
Most of them run legal weights

00:52:43.340 --> 00:52:44.980
and this does not pertain to them.

00:52:45.980 --> 00:52:47.300
Okay.

00:52:47.300 --> 00:52:48.139
Alderman Johnson, if you want to.

00:52:48.139 --> 00:52:50.119
Just two more questions.

00:52:50.119 --> 00:52:54.440
If we pass it with the amount that we designated

00:52:54.440 --> 00:52:58.519
at this time, what was it, 1,200 instead of 500,

00:52:58.519 --> 00:53:00.599
would there be any time possibly

00:53:00.599 --> 00:53:03.480
that we could change that if we felt like it was,

00:53:03.480 --> 00:53:05.159
I mean, the council could come back together

00:53:05.159 --> 00:53:08.480
and renegotiate that if we felt like that was a problem.

00:53:08.480 --> 00:53:15.199
also I was wondering where does the money from the permits what what does that money go toward

00:53:15.199 --> 00:53:22.800
when we get get the money for the permits where does that money go sure so yes it could come back

00:53:22.800 --> 00:53:28.880
to council at any time just like any other ordinance and have the cost change to a lower

00:53:28.880 --> 00:53:35.199
amount higher amount whatever the pleasure of the council and it just takes city manager the mayor

00:53:35.199 --> 00:53:40.719
or any council people to bring that back up to the meeting and then all of our permit fees doesn't

00:53:40.719 --> 00:53:46.559
matter what department it comes from or goes back to the general funds they're paid in and finance

00:53:47.519 --> 00:53:51.039
believe brings them all back through the general fund. Okay thank you much.

00:53:52.800 --> 00:53:59.199
Alderman Sanders you've already spoke twice. Have I? Is there any other discussion? Alderman Shadle?

00:53:59.199 --> 00:54:10.199
I just would like to reiterate that this gentleman mentioned this because the state fee is $1400.

00:54:10.199 --> 00:54:12.380
The city came in at $1200.

00:54:12.380 --> 00:54:23.429
He felt that was exorbitant for what it was, state versus the city.

00:54:23.429 --> 00:54:27.670
the 500 he felt would have been more appropriate.

00:54:31.349 --> 00:54:36.190
Another comment on to our city clerk

00:54:37.989 --> 00:54:40.750
that I think she's doing a fine job.

00:54:40.750 --> 00:54:45.750
The notices on this agenda under item seven says view memo,

00:54:46.230 --> 00:54:48.989
view state statute and view permit application

00:54:48.989 --> 00:54:51.550
I think was pretty much everything you were saying

00:54:51.550 --> 00:54:58.079
Mc over here, which he didn't have there, but it's there.

00:54:58.079 --> 00:54:59.239
If there's no further discussion?

00:54:59.239 --> 00:55:00.239
Yeah.

00:55:00.239 --> 00:55:02.559
Well, you spoke twice, so I'd have to get.

00:55:02.559 --> 00:55:03.559
No, I'm not speaking.

00:55:03.559 --> 00:55:09.519
I'm just saying, is it prudent that someone makes a derogatory comment to another Council

00:55:09.519 --> 00:55:15.079
sitting right in his ear about something that's not on the agenda?

00:55:15.079 --> 00:55:17.519
That's what I want to make reference to.

00:55:17.519 --> 00:55:24.960
And that, and just because he made that comment, I think there should be some kind of discretion

00:55:24.960 --> 00:55:29.720
DeWitt, Frank, Kasey, Thomas, Peter, Andrew, Nick, and Paul.

00:55:29.720 --> 00:55:35.900
And I think when we're talking about being presented, when a council does that, you know,

00:55:35.900 --> 00:55:48.059
when he has no more, he's not agenda, he's not on the agenda, I should not have been

00:55:48.059 --> 00:55:49.619
implemented in that agenda.

00:55:49.619 --> 00:55:50.619
That's what I'm getting at.

00:55:50.619 --> 00:55:52.179
And he put me there.

00:55:52.179 --> 00:55:57.260
All right, Sanders, I think you had indicated that you wanted the clerk to do certain things

00:55:57.260 --> 00:55:58.260
there.

00:55:58.260 --> 00:55:59.340
To give you that information, I think Alderman Shadow was just pointing out the fact that

00:55:59.340 --> 00:56:00.340
Boyer.

00:56:00.340 --> 00:56:01.340
I think that's all he was saying.

00:56:01.340 --> 00:56:02.340
He was kind of answering your question.

00:56:02.340 --> 00:56:03.340
Okay.

00:56:03.340 --> 00:56:04.340
All right.

00:56:04.340 --> 00:56:06.019
I'll accept it today.

00:56:06.019 --> 00:56:07.019
I'll accept that.

00:56:07.019 --> 00:56:08.019
Okay.

00:56:08.019 --> 00:56:09.019
So is there any other discussion?

00:56:09.019 --> 00:56:10.019
If not, we'll take a vote.

00:56:10.019 --> 00:56:14.739
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

00:56:14.739 --> 00:56:15.739
Stacy?

00:56:15.739 --> 00:56:16.739
Alderman Simmons?

00:56:16.739 --> 00:56:19.739
Manager Boyer, what is the amendment?

00:56:19.739 --> 00:56:20.940
Is it stand as was?

00:56:20.940 --> 00:56:21.940
There is no amendment.

00:56:21.940 --> 00:56:22.940
It's the way it stands.

00:56:22.940 --> 00:56:23.940
Unless you want to make an amendment.

00:56:23.940 --> 00:56:25.940
We're voting on an amendment.

00:56:25.940 --> 00:56:26.940
No.

00:56:26.940 --> 00:56:30.340
You're voting on an ordinance that there's no amendment that has gone forward.

00:56:30.340 --> 00:56:35.940
if you'd like to put an amendment on, that's up to you.

00:56:35.940 --> 00:56:36.940
Okay, my bad.

00:56:38.139 --> 00:56:42.539
Yeah, it says amending.

00:56:42.539 --> 00:56:44.220
Exactly, that's what I'm saying.

00:56:44.220 --> 00:56:47.300
The amending of this ordinance that we are voting on.

00:56:47.300 --> 00:56:49.659
Okay, attorney Zito will answer that.

00:56:49.659 --> 00:56:51.940
So the ordinance itself,

00:56:51.940 --> 00:56:54.820
the ordinance that's been presented at Cal

00:56:54.820 --> 00:56:57.500
and first read and now second read,

00:56:57.500 --> 00:56:59.500
it isn't an ordinance that is amending

00:56:59.500 --> 00:57:03.179
the existing ordinance to add a process there.

00:57:03.179 --> 00:57:06.019
and in that ordinance that's amending

00:57:06.019 --> 00:57:07.260
the current version of the code,

00:57:07.260 --> 00:57:10.940
it has a fee of $1,200 in it.

00:57:10.940 --> 00:57:12.779
During tonight's discussion,

00:57:12.779 --> 00:57:15.380
there were talks about an amendment

00:57:15.380 --> 00:57:19.260
to the underlying ordinance to change it to 500,

00:57:19.260 --> 00:57:21.579
but there was no motion to actually change the dollar amount

00:57:21.579 --> 00:57:23.500
to tweak the ordinance as presented.

00:57:23.500 --> 00:57:25.300
That's what I'm saying.

00:57:25.300 --> 00:57:27.739
Okay, no, there was no motion,

00:57:27.739 --> 00:57:31.380
but manager Boyer agreed to doing it.

00:57:31.380 --> 00:57:32.220
No, he can't.

00:57:32.220 --> 00:57:34.739
Just said, that's fair, city recommends that.

00:57:34.739 --> 00:57:37.380
So as long as that's not being changed.

00:57:37.380 --> 00:57:38.220
Correct.

00:57:38.220 --> 00:57:39.039
Okay.

00:57:39.039 --> 00:57:41.820
It needs the council's, manager Boyer has made,

00:57:41.820 --> 00:57:45.500
he said that he's fine with it being 500

00:57:45.500 --> 00:57:47.380
as a recommendation of his,

00:57:47.380 --> 00:57:49.059
but it's still up to you guys to decide

00:57:49.059 --> 00:57:51.220
whether or not you want to make the motion to change,

00:57:51.220 --> 00:57:53.059
actually implement that $500 change.

00:57:53.059 --> 00:57:55.659
That's all I wanted to clarify, okay, thank you.

00:57:55.659 --> 00:57:58.099
That it wouldn't be changed once we voted yes.

00:58:16.019 --> 00:58:19.019
The ordinance passes 8 to 0.

00:58:19.019 --> 00:58:22.059
Item number 8 is the second reading of Ordinance 2025-48.

00:58:22.059 --> 00:58:24.579
Could you please read this?

00:58:24.579 --> 00:58:25.320
and

00:58:25.320 --> 00:58:26.320
Dr. Dockman.

00:58:26.320 --> 00:58:28.119
I'm going to turn it over to Dr. Dockman.

00:58:28.119 --> 00:58:29.119
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:58:29.119 --> 00:58:35.420
So this ordinance, nothing has changed since the first reading, but there were some questions

00:58:35.420 --> 00:58:41.539
about number of actual physical cultural centers slash gyms that have come into the

00:58:41.539 --> 00:58:46.340
area and how often a subject like this would occur.

00:58:46.340 --> 00:58:53.340
And in the past year, we've had four athletes that have come into the area and they've been

00:58:53.340 --> 00:58:57.739
For, actual athletic centers, physical cultural centers,

00:58:57.739 --> 00:59:00.699
gyms come through the city of Freeport.

00:59:00.699 --> 00:59:05.579
We've had, in March 3rd, we approved it in council.

00:59:05.579 --> 00:59:09.220
18th South Chicago was Magicians Academy, MMA,

00:59:09.220 --> 00:59:11.139
so that was in March 3rd.

00:59:11.139 --> 00:59:13.420
Then we also had a new gym who's still

00:59:13.420 --> 00:59:14.920
working on their build-out, so they

00:59:14.920 --> 00:59:17.619
haven't given their name yet, but that was at Cub Foods.

00:59:17.619 --> 00:59:20.460
So that was July 7th at 25.

00:59:20.460 --> 00:59:25.599
We just recently had the Studio Elan Pilati Studio at 2 to 6 East Stevenson, that was

00:59:25.599 --> 00:59:28.119
July 21, 2025.

00:59:28.119 --> 00:59:33.460
And then we also had the Freeport Martial Arts at 105107 West Main Street.

00:59:33.460 --> 00:59:38.940
So those are, and that was called Freeport Martial Arts, that was July 21, 2025.

00:59:38.940 --> 00:59:47.900
So that gives a little background on why staff has presented this, what's known as a text

00:59:47.900 --> 00:59:48.900
amendment.

00:59:48.900 --> 00:59:50.860
of Planning Commission.

00:59:50.860 --> 01:00:01.000
We brought it to Planning Commission and we looked at our comprehensive plan and we stated that we're seeing an influx of what is a positive land use, which is physical activity.

01:00:01.000 --> 01:00:12.000
There's plenty of complaints that our community doesn't have enough positive activities to do and we're seeing quite a bit of an influx of these gyms, physical cultural centers,

01:00:12.000 --> 01:00:42.000
Settlers, Settlers, Settlers

01:00:42.000 --> 01:00:44.199
and

01:00:44.199 --> 01:00:45.000
the

01:00:45.000 --> 01:00:46.000
city.

01:00:46.000 --> 01:00:54.039
So I think it's a good thing for them that they're allowed to do it by right and certainly

01:00:54.039 --> 01:00:58.639
anybody in this city is subject to building codes.

01:00:58.639 --> 01:01:00.679
They would still have to get their certificate of occupancy.

01:01:00.679 --> 01:01:04.639
They would still have to pass their fire code inspections, etc.

01:01:04.639 --> 01:01:08.480
So I think it's a good thing for them that they're allowed to do it by right.

01:01:08.480 --> 01:01:13.480
Fiercote inspections, etc. So that's really what's before you today.

01:01:13.480 --> 01:01:24.480
Thank you. Alderman Sanders? Yeah. Are you receiving complaints from these business owners?

01:01:24.480 --> 01:01:29.480
I would say 9 out of 10 business owners complain on any permit they have to fill out.

01:01:29.480 --> 01:01:31.300
and

01:01:31.300 --> 01:01:32.300
John.

01:01:32.300 --> 01:01:35.300
So, I'm going to ask you a question about that.

01:01:35.300 --> 01:01:36.300
Okay.

01:01:36.300 --> 01:01:42.139
And so, does the permit stipulate exactly what the criteria is for them to meet certain

01:01:42.139 --> 01:01:44.300
things within side of this permit?

01:01:44.300 --> 01:01:48.300
Does that, is that presented within side of the permit itself?

01:01:48.300 --> 01:01:52.300
Every permit states what is requested and what's going to be reviewed, yes.

01:01:52.300 --> 01:01:54.300
and

01:01:55.300 --> 01:01:57.300
John, and I'm going to ask you a question.

01:01:59.719 --> 01:02:01.719
If we're not going to be able to do that, why are we

01:02:03.360 --> 01:02:05.360
not allowing people that is trying to alter the permit, if

01:02:07.440 --> 01:02:09.440
they don't want to work inside of the guidelines of the permit,

01:02:10.539 --> 01:02:12.539
why are we allowing the permit to be altered to be convenient

01:02:13.639 --> 01:02:15.639
to some and not to others?

01:02:16.760 --> 01:02:18.500
That's not true. That's not true? Well, that's what I'm

01:02:18.500 --> 01:02:20.500
hearing. I can explain again.

01:02:22.300 --> 01:02:39.980
and I have to meet all of the things that are within this guideline.

01:02:39.980 --> 01:02:48.980
Why are we having a complaint issue with owners or business perspective owners about the permit?

01:02:48.980 --> 01:02:55.500
To answer your question quickly, most business owners would prefer not to have to pay for

01:02:55.500 --> 01:02:58.260
permits, so this costs money.

01:02:58.260 --> 01:03:02.420
And most business owners would like to be efficient and start opening up their business

01:03:02.420 --> 01:03:03.420
right away.

01:03:03.420 --> 01:03:08.820
So in general, a general answer to your comment is less regulation.

01:03:08.820 --> 01:03:12.300
From a business owner's perspective, they're going to want less regulation.

01:03:12.300 --> 01:03:21.539
from a staff perspective, I brought four physical cultural centers before council this year.

01:03:21.539 --> 01:03:24.139
And I will gladly do four more, 20 more.

01:03:24.139 --> 01:03:31.019
This department will stand by and bring every single Jim Pilati studio to city council.

01:03:31.019 --> 01:03:33.219
That's what's before you today.

01:03:33.219 --> 01:03:38.780
This measure was brought not for one specific owner, not because people complained.

01:03:38.780 --> 01:03:39.780
Huffines.

01:03:39.780 --> 01:03:45.619
It simply was brought because when a land use, when you see an influx of people wanting to

01:03:45.619 --> 01:03:52.059
start gyms, studios, and you're looking at it and saying, does every gym that opens up,

01:03:52.059 --> 01:03:57.719
it does that warrant having to come to council and delay opening their business every time

01:03:57.719 --> 01:04:01.780
a gym comes to the city to get their proper permits?

01:04:01.780 --> 01:04:04.739
And we've seen four people do it in the past year.

01:04:04.739 --> 01:04:09.779
If that's what the pleasure of council is, I'm not arguing that.

01:04:09.779 --> 01:04:19.960
Mr. Duckman, the permits are self-explanatory, and the fact that you are, I understand that

01:04:19.960 --> 01:04:27.260
you have to listen to the business owners and put things like that, if it's better to

01:04:27.260 --> 01:04:34.059
serve them in a particular way, I can understand the alterations in permits if it's all agreed

01:04:34.059 --> 01:04:36.059
and John.

01:04:37.639 --> 01:04:39.539
If it's not a permanent permit, it's not something to put a

01:04:39.539 --> 01:04:44.779
date up on, especially coming from the Council. If there's any

01:04:44.779 --> 01:04:47.699
changes in the permit that satisfy them altogether, I don't

01:04:47.699 --> 01:04:53.880
want it to be one side and the other side. And if that's the

01:04:53.880 --> 01:04:58.039
case, we need to be able to look at it again, have another

01:04:58.039 --> 01:05:02.779
assessment about it, talk about it again like we're doing now.

01:05:02.779 --> 01:05:09.779
Neather. I want them to be able to be comparable in what they're doing and being able to serve

01:05:09.779 --> 01:05:15.579
the city of Freeport. And so when we're doing that, that's all I wanted to do is bring clarity

01:05:15.579 --> 01:05:23.099
to and let the people know and not only let the council know, but let the citizens of

01:05:23.099 --> 01:05:29.820
Freeport know that we are looking into these matters with our eyes open, you know, that

01:05:29.820 --> 01:05:32.139
kind of thing. So that's all I'm saying.

01:05:32.139 --> 01:05:40.000
I just have some information because I know we had a question of what physical culture

01:05:40.000 --> 01:05:41.699
center means.

01:05:41.699 --> 01:05:46.360
The definition is a place dedicated to the systematic cultivation of physical fitness

01:05:46.360 --> 01:05:49.820
and health through various exercises and practices.

01:05:49.820 --> 01:05:54.260
The concept is rooted in the belief that physical development and health are interconnected

01:05:54.260 --> 01:05:59.220
with cultural values and contribute to a holistic sense of well-being.

01:05:59.220 --> 01:06:02.960
and I just went through and hunted how many of these

01:06:02.960 --> 01:06:06.779
are in the city of Freeport and what I could find online,

01:06:06.779 --> 01:06:10.099
there was 22 that includes your martial arts,

01:06:10.099 --> 01:06:14.179
that includes exercise places, that includes yoga places.

01:06:14.179 --> 01:06:17.820
So just to let you know, there are 22 already in the city.

01:06:17.820 --> 01:06:21.420
Also, I have a question, is there a place

01:06:21.420 --> 01:06:25.300
where they can open up these without having to come

01:06:25.300 --> 01:06:30.099
to the Council for rezoning without having the permit.

01:06:30.099 --> 01:06:32.220
There is.

01:06:32.220 --> 01:06:35.739
It's more restrictive because any time you have,

01:06:35.739 --> 01:06:40.500
right now it's in the B2, B3, or manufacturing districts.

01:06:40.500 --> 01:06:43.619
So any time when you're creating the plan of your city,

01:06:43.619 --> 01:06:49.779
when you get into more intense business districts, B2, B3,

01:06:49.779 --> 01:06:52.340
the city is going to typically have smaller areas where

01:06:52.340 --> 01:07:22.340
Miller, John, John, John, John, John

01:07:22.340 --> 01:07:26.980
We're not seeing it the same as those more intense uses and they would have to go to

01:07:26.980 --> 01:07:32.539
those more intense uses and find locations where they could put them to fit there.

01:07:32.539 --> 01:07:38.460
So that's really what this is about is seeing an influx in this use, which staff thinks

01:07:38.460 --> 01:07:40.779
is a positive for the city.

01:07:40.779 --> 01:07:44.900
We're happy that people want to bring physical health to our community.

01:07:44.900 --> 01:07:49.019
We're just trying to be more business friendly to say we shouldn't have to bring these every

01:07:49.019 --> 01:07:54.220
Every single gym that opens up would be bringing it to council for approval.

01:07:54.220 --> 01:07:56.630
Thank you.

01:07:56.630 --> 01:07:57.630
Yep.

01:07:57.630 --> 01:08:00.630
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:08:00.630 --> 01:08:01.630
Stacy?

01:08:01.630 --> 01:08:02.630
Aye.

01:08:02.630 --> 01:08:03.630
Shadle?

01:08:03.630 --> 01:08:04.630
Aye.

01:08:04.630 --> 01:08:05.630
Sanders?

01:08:05.630 --> 01:08:06.630
Aye.

01:08:06.630 --> 01:08:07.630
Sellers?

01:08:07.630 --> 01:08:08.630
Aye.

01:08:08.630 --> 01:08:09.630
Klemm?

01:08:09.630 --> 01:08:10.630
Aye.

01:08:10.630 --> 01:08:11.630
Johnson?

01:08:11.630 --> 01:08:12.630
No.

01:08:12.630 --> 01:08:13.630
Simmons?

01:08:13.630 --> 01:08:14.630
No.

01:08:14.630 --> 01:08:15.630
Parker?

01:08:15.630 --> 01:08:16.630
Aye.

01:08:16.630 --> 01:08:17.630
The ordinance passes 6-2.

01:08:17.630 --> 01:08:18.630
Item number 9 is the second reading of Ordinance 2025-49.

01:08:18.630 --> 01:08:20.229
Could you please read this?

01:08:20.229 --> 01:08:21.229
Dixie.

01:08:21.229 --> 01:08:30.229
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

01:08:30.229 --> 01:08:32.649
So nothing here has changed yet.

01:08:32.649 --> 01:08:35.690
Nothing has changed on this since the first reading.

01:08:35.690 --> 01:08:45.649
And so essentially what this is is our codified ordinances state, serve, and not sell alcohol.

01:08:45.649 --> 01:08:52.409
So currently what we're saying is that you would not need to get a special use permit

01:08:52.409 --> 01:08:59.090
if you are in a BYOB bring your own alcohol establishment because our current ordinances

01:08:59.090 --> 01:09:02.270
say sell as opposed to serve.

01:09:02.270 --> 01:09:08.690
So what this is essentially, this is a cleaning up of the language review by our legal counsel

01:09:08.690 --> 01:09:14.690
saying that we're trying to be, we're trying to hold our BYOB establishments to the same

01:09:14.690 --> 01:09:18.690
Bates, and then, of course, we have a number of other

01:09:18.690 --> 01:09:21.690
stakeholders, and I think that's a good way to

01:09:21.690 --> 01:09:27.350
understand the same standard that our bars and

01:09:27.350 --> 01:09:30.350
restaurants in town are, and that's to make sure

01:09:30.350 --> 01:09:33.350
that they would still have to get a special use

01:09:33.350 --> 01:09:34.350
permit.

01:09:34.350 --> 01:09:36.350
Any additional discussion on this?

01:09:36.350 --> 01:09:37.350
In reading?

01:09:37.350 --> 01:09:38.350
Alderman Sanders?

01:09:38.350 --> 01:09:41.350
Can you repeat that again on the last thing that

01:09:41.350 --> 01:09:47.909
Right, so you know we've had plenty of discussions over the past year and

01:09:47.909 --> 01:09:51.319
over the past year and meeting halls are typical use where you're going to have a

01:09:51.319 --> 01:09:55.359
bring your own alcohol establishment and you're going to serve it you're not

01:09:55.359 --> 01:10:00.600
going to charge a fee you're not going to go buy a glass of wine or a beer yeah

01:10:00.600 --> 01:10:08.279
and so all of the liquor licenses are required to have a special use permit

01:10:08.279 --> 01:10:14.319
first mm-hmm okay so there's a loophole that currently exists where if you're in

01:10:14.319 --> 01:10:23.180
and a BYOB or you're not charging per drink, they are not, it's a loophole, we're cleaning

01:10:23.180 --> 01:10:28.699
up the language that says, it says sell alcohol. So since that establishment, the meeting hall

01:10:28.699 --> 01:10:32.359
is not selling alcohol, they would not have to go get the special use permit. And our

01:10:32.359 --> 01:10:37.279
attorney did a review of the, our code and said we really should clean this up to make

01:10:37.279 --> 01:10:40.199
sure that they're on the same playing field to make it fair.

01:10:40.199 --> 01:10:41.199
Miller.

01:10:41.199 --> 01:10:45.479
What you're saying is, at these meeting halls, I'm trying to get the interpretation of where

01:10:45.479 --> 01:10:50.020
this product can be served.

01:10:50.020 --> 01:10:57.560
Is it meeting halls or is it in any other establishment type of venue or establishment

01:10:57.560 --> 01:10:59.520
that this BYOB?

01:10:59.520 --> 01:11:00.520
BYOB.

01:11:00.520 --> 01:11:01.520
Yeah.

01:11:01.520 --> 01:11:09.359
And do we have the correct meaning of interpretation of where this can be served?

01:11:09.359 --> 01:11:12.239
I mean, is that established? Have we established that?

01:11:12.239 --> 01:11:12.739
Yes.

01:11:12.739 --> 01:11:18.520
Because we need to be able to make a differentiation of which one is which.

01:11:18.520 --> 01:11:20.760
And that's why we're here. That's why this is here.

01:11:20.760 --> 01:11:21.260
Okay.

01:11:21.260 --> 01:11:27.840
Is that it's been reviewed and anywhere that's serving or selling, either one, they're going

01:11:27.840 --> 01:11:33.479
to have to be on the same playing field. That's why this is here, to make sure we're fair

01:11:33.479 --> 01:11:35.840
and we're treating everyone the same.

01:11:35.840 --> 01:11:36.840
Okay.

01:11:36.840 --> 01:11:40.520
Now, my question also is.

01:11:40.520 --> 01:11:42.239
Did you want to use your second time?

01:11:42.239 --> 01:11:43.520
Yeah, let me do that.

01:11:46.239 --> 01:11:49.000
These meeting venues or meeting places,

01:11:49.000 --> 01:11:52.880
as you make reference to, are not always established.

01:11:52.880 --> 01:11:57.880
Restaurants, what we call bars or whatever the case is,

01:11:58.399 --> 01:12:02.199
and people are just out having a convention

01:12:02.199 --> 01:12:04.159
or an event or an event.

01:12:04.159 --> 01:12:11.039
but they're actually in those type of meetings alcohol is being served but

01:12:11.039 --> 01:12:17.359
they're also being charged. What's the difference between the two because if a

01:12:17.359 --> 01:12:25.439
person wants to bring his own and the venue already established a prop bar

01:12:25.439 --> 01:12:32.960
for sale, is there a problem there? Yes, there's two different, there's

01:12:32.960 --> 01:12:36.659
Petit, and Matt.

01:12:36.819 --> 01:12:40.880
There's different classes of liquor licenses.

01:12:40.880 --> 01:12:43.180
And a meeting hall is not supposed...

01:12:43.180 --> 01:12:47.279
If a meeting hall gets their BYOB liquor license, they are not

01:12:47.279 --> 01:12:48.220
allowed to sell alcohol.

01:12:48.220 --> 01:12:49.760
Okay.

01:12:49.760 --> 01:12:54.359
So that takes care of your concern.

01:12:54.359 --> 01:12:57.520
You know, if you soon as you say I'm going to sell a drink to

01:12:57.520 --> 01:13:00.180
you as a bar or restaurant would, that's a different class

01:13:00.180 --> 01:13:01.220
of liquor license.

01:13:01.220 --> 01:13:02.220
Fowler.

01:13:02.220 --> 01:13:08.779
When at a meeting, people want to have something at the bar, and they're normally charged.

01:13:08.779 --> 01:13:10.140
They should be.

01:13:10.140 --> 01:13:11.140
Yeah.

01:13:11.140 --> 01:13:12.460
And they should have a permit for that.

01:13:12.460 --> 01:13:13.460
Am I correct?

01:13:13.460 --> 01:13:14.819
You are correct, and they do.

01:13:14.819 --> 01:13:15.819
Yeah.

01:13:15.819 --> 01:13:19.619
And how do we determine whether they are eligible to do so?

01:13:19.619 --> 01:13:21.659
We have, well, that's part of this, right?

01:13:21.659 --> 01:13:22.659
We have a Liquor Commission.

01:13:22.659 --> 01:13:23.659
Mm-hmm.

01:13:23.659 --> 01:13:28.140
And if somebody wants to sell alcohol, serve alcohol, they know what they would like to

01:13:28.140 --> 01:13:29.140
do.

01:13:29.140 --> 01:13:30.140
They come to City Hall.

01:13:30.140 --> 01:13:31.140
They talk to my department.

01:13:31.140 --> 01:13:32.140
Huffines.

01:13:32.140 --> 01:13:41.140
And then we go to a liquor commission meeting, which would determine if you meet the requirements

01:13:41.140 --> 01:13:48.939
for a liquor license, you have to go through a special use permit process, which is through

01:13:48.939 --> 01:13:51.020
the community development department.

01:13:51.020 --> 01:13:57.279
And what this is saying is the language is clearing it up from sell to serve because

01:13:57.279 --> 01:14:01.359
and some establishments don't serve, don't charge for alcohol.

01:14:01.359 --> 01:14:02.159
Right, right.

01:14:02.159 --> 01:14:05.840
Well, my point is there are a lot of them that does.

01:14:05.840 --> 01:14:07.039
And they're taken care of.

01:14:07.039 --> 01:14:08.680
And I like to know whether or not they're

01:14:08.680 --> 01:14:13.199
receiving permits that allows them to be eligible to do so.

01:14:13.199 --> 01:14:20.319
Because in that same sector, a BYOB, whatever that is,

01:14:20.319 --> 01:14:22.000
I don't know the right term.

01:14:22.000 --> 01:14:22.920
Bring your own alcohol.

01:14:22.920 --> 01:14:25.920
Might want to be able to walk into an establishment

01:14:25.920 --> 01:14:29.439
of that nature and bring his own liquor

01:14:29.439 --> 01:14:33.399
without notifying the bar, whoever,

01:14:33.399 --> 01:14:37.680
to find out whether the eligibility is okay

01:14:37.680 --> 01:14:41.640
to bring their own liquor into an establishment

01:14:41.640 --> 01:14:45.520
or an event that they're in, if there's a bar in place,

01:14:45.520 --> 01:14:49.079
which one governs over the whole event

01:14:49.079 --> 01:14:52.880
when it comes to sale of liquor or service of liquor?

01:14:52.880 --> 01:14:54.560
I'm sorry, I don't understand what's going on.

01:14:54.560 --> 01:14:57.699
Okay. So, Madam Clerk, would you like to say something?

01:14:57.699 --> 01:15:07.359
So when the meeting hall ordinance was rewritten, bars and restaurants that serve alcohol are

01:15:07.359 --> 01:15:16.579
exempt from getting a meeting hall license. So what would be an example? The bowling alley.

01:15:16.579 --> 01:15:21.720
If they had a banquet room, we are not going to require them to get a meeting hall license

01:15:21.720 --> 01:15:27.539
for their banquet room, it was decided that places that sell liquor are pretty heavily

01:15:27.539 --> 01:15:32.159
regulated and we would not put them through the meeting hall process.

01:15:32.159 --> 01:15:36.319
So if they are a bar or a restaurant, they're not a meeting hall.

01:15:36.319 --> 01:15:44.640
If they are a meeting hall, they have the option to have a BYOB or there can be a meeting

01:15:44.640 --> 01:15:47.159
hall that doesn't have BYOB.

01:15:47.159 --> 01:15:49.920
but if you are bringing your own liquor.

01:15:49.920 --> 01:15:52.359
My point is how do you establish that?

01:15:52.359 --> 01:15:54.600
How does a person not knowing

01:15:54.600 --> 01:15:57.640
what the establishment permitted,

01:15:57.640 --> 01:16:02.159
if they don't have a posting notification sign

01:16:02.159 --> 01:16:05.800
before they enter into any event venue

01:16:05.800 --> 01:16:07.720
or banquet or whatever the case is,

01:16:07.720 --> 01:16:10.279
if there's no sign posted saying that

01:16:10.279 --> 01:16:14.680
this is not a B-O-Y-B whatever establishment,

01:16:14.680 --> 01:16:19.680
We are a permit to sale, and that's what you get

01:16:20.119 --> 01:16:22.819
at these establishments, and you have to be able

01:16:22.819 --> 01:16:26.880
to distinguish the difference when a person come

01:16:26.880 --> 01:16:30.159
off the street and want to attend this event,

01:16:30.159 --> 01:16:33.520
they need to know whether they can, wait a minute, are you?

01:16:33.520 --> 01:16:35.199
So Alderman Sanders, you've actually spoken

01:16:35.199 --> 01:16:37.199
like four times now, so. Oh, have I?

01:16:37.199 --> 01:16:38.920
Yeah, so if you wanna.

01:16:38.920 --> 01:16:40.239
Well, I just wanted to bring that up,

01:16:40.239 --> 01:16:43.000
I just needed clarity on that, that's all I wanted.

01:16:43.000 --> 01:16:44.260
Well, I mean, yeah.

01:16:44.260 --> 01:16:46.760
Rest assured that it's a process.

01:16:46.760 --> 01:16:48.220
We have a Liquor Commission meeting.

01:16:48.220 --> 01:16:52.220
And anybody who is serving or selling alcohol

01:16:52.220 --> 01:16:53.800
is regulated through our department.

01:16:53.800 --> 01:16:58.020
And whatever concerns you have, I mean, certainly,

01:16:58.020 --> 01:17:00.060
if there's ever a major concern the next time there's

01:17:00.060 --> 01:17:02.319
a Liquor Commission meeting, I would suggest going.

01:17:02.319 --> 01:17:03.500
Because they will talk about, you know,

01:17:03.500 --> 01:17:05.859
they talk about all that at the Liquor Commission.

01:17:05.859 --> 01:17:06.819
Very good, very good.

01:17:06.819 --> 01:17:07.539
That's all I was looking for.

01:17:07.539 --> 01:17:08.579
Understood, understood.

01:17:08.579 --> 01:17:11.439
OK, so if there's no further discussion

01:17:11.439 --> 01:17:16.439
on this text amendment, would you please take the vote?

01:17:16.779 --> 01:17:19.680
Stacy?

01:17:19.680 --> 01:17:20.520
Aye.

01:17:20.520 --> 01:17:21.340
Shadle?

01:17:21.340 --> 01:17:22.180
Aye.

01:17:22.180 --> 01:17:23.020
Sanders?

01:17:23.020 --> 01:17:23.840
Aye.

01:17:23.840 --> 01:17:24.680
Sellers?

01:17:24.680 --> 01:17:25.520
Aye.

01:17:25.520 --> 01:17:26.340
Klemm?

01:17:26.340 --> 01:17:27.180
Aye.

01:17:27.180 --> 01:17:28.020
Johnson?

01:17:28.020 --> 01:17:28.840
Aye.

01:17:28.840 --> 01:17:29.680
Simmons?

01:17:29.680 --> 01:17:30.520
No.

01:17:30.520 --> 01:17:31.340
And Parker?

01:17:31.340 --> 01:17:32.180
Aye.

01:17:32.180 --> 01:17:33.020
The ordinance passes seven to one.

01:17:33.020 --> 01:17:35.539
Item number 10 is the second reading of ordinance 2025-50.

01:17:35.539 --> 01:17:36.859
Could you please read this?

01:17:36.859 --> 01:17:39.500
Ordinance approving special use permit application

01:17:39.500 --> 01:17:40.500
Kessler.

01:17:40.500 --> 01:17:49.779
We're going to talk about a special use of an R3 one-family resident zone property to

01:17:49.779 --> 01:17:55.739
allow for solar energy systems which utilize ground-mounted PV arrays per section 1250.01

01:17:55.739 --> 01:17:56.739
B20.

01:17:56.739 --> 01:18:01.859
Alderman Shadle, or who wanted to present this?

01:18:01.859 --> 01:18:23.220
Director Duckman, is it you?

01:18:23.220 --> 01:18:25.220
I guess I would just bring it up.

01:18:25.220 --> 01:18:27.239
I'll speak on behalf of this.

01:18:27.239 --> 01:18:30.720
So essentially, this was brought originally

01:18:30.720 --> 01:18:34.119
to council on July 21st.

01:18:34.119 --> 01:18:37.000
And it essentially was brought to the floor,

01:18:37.000 --> 01:18:40.920
and there was no motion made on it for a vote or discussion

01:18:40.920 --> 01:18:41.659
at all.

01:18:41.659 --> 01:18:45.119
It was just brought, and there was never a motion or a second

01:18:45.119 --> 01:18:45.840
to discuss it.

01:18:45.840 --> 01:18:49.699
So what we're talking about here,

01:18:49.699 --> 01:18:51.680
it's been brought again to council.

01:18:51.680 --> 01:19:00.479
and essentially what we have here is, this is the church here and you can see these are

01:19:00.479 --> 01:19:04.319
the existing panels on a shed roof which is allowed by right.

01:19:04.319 --> 01:19:10.119
They don't have to go to council to ask for permission here, but they're asking for 120

01:19:10.119 --> 01:19:15.319
feet here, I'm sorry, it's 120 feet from the property line here which is, you have a natural

01:19:15.319 --> 01:19:27.319
We have a little barrier of trees, and you have the building line here, and you can see that the solar panels are back further away from the view screen from the road here.

01:19:27.319 --> 01:19:43.319
So essentially, this is Pearl City Road here. As you come down, originally the developer or the church and State Line Solar were discussing filling this entire area with solar panels, as well as this entire area with solar panels.

01:19:43.319 --> 01:19:46.000
That's a lot of electricity there.

01:19:46.000 --> 01:19:46.640
A lot of electricity there.

01:19:46.640 --> 01:19:50.180
They now are down to this small area right in here.

01:19:50.180 --> 01:19:55.979
So it's been brought again on the floor.

01:19:55.979 --> 01:19:59.899
And it's up for approval.

01:19:59.899 --> 01:20:02.020
Any discussion?

01:20:02.020 --> 01:20:03.420
Alderman Johnson.

01:20:03.420 --> 01:20:06.060
So this will not be seen from Pearl City Road, right?

01:20:06.060 --> 01:20:07.060
It's pretty well hidden.

01:20:07.060 --> 01:20:09.020
I would say you really have to look for it.

01:20:09.020 --> 01:20:09.779
You know what I mean?

01:20:09.779 --> 01:20:11.619
You see where, like, if you're coming down here,

01:20:11.619 --> 01:20:12.619
Huffines.

01:20:12.619 --> 01:20:17.260
You might get a shot of it right through there, but you would

01:20:17.260 --> 01:20:19.819
have to be looking for it, because you are going by here so

01:20:19.819 --> 01:20:22.779
fast. And then from the other direction, if your eyes are

01:20:22.779 --> 01:20:25.220
focused, I don't think you would see it going eastbound.

01:20:25.220 --> 01:20:26.220
Thank you.

01:20:26.220 --> 01:20:27.220
You are welcome.

01:20:27.220 --> 01:20:34.260
They are not asking for major changes there in that area.

01:20:34.260 --> 01:20:38.060
My opinion is no. You can see these are the changes. See that

01:20:38.060 --> 01:20:40.500
little section of solar panels right there? That is what they

01:20:40.500 --> 01:20:41.739
they're asking for.

01:20:41.739 --> 01:20:45.819
Yeah, so that's not an eyesore or anything.

01:20:45.819 --> 01:20:47.100
Not in my opinion.

01:20:47.100 --> 01:20:49.420
OK.

01:20:49.420 --> 01:20:50.760
There's no further discussion.

01:20:50.760 --> 01:20:52.180
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:20:52.180 --> 01:20:54.460
Stacy?

01:20:54.460 --> 01:20:55.260
Aye.

01:20:55.260 --> 01:20:55.760
Shadle?

01:20:55.760 --> 01:20:56.500
Aye.

01:20:56.500 --> 01:20:57.060
Sanders?

01:20:57.060 --> 01:20:57.579
Aye.

01:20:57.579 --> 01:20:58.180
Sellers?

01:20:58.180 --> 01:20:58.680
Aye.

01:20:58.680 --> 01:20:59.180
Klemm?

01:20:59.180 --> 01:21:00.060
No.

01:21:00.060 --> 01:21:00.939
Johnson?

01:21:00.939 --> 01:21:01.899
Aye.

01:21:01.899 --> 01:21:02.500
Simmons?

01:21:02.500 --> 01:21:04.420
Abstain.

01:21:04.420 --> 01:21:05.340
And Parker?

01:21:05.340 --> 01:21:06.939
Aye.

01:21:06.939 --> 01:21:08.020
The motion passes.

01:21:08.020 --> 01:21:18.260
5, 6, 6-1-1. Thank you. Item number 11 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-51. Could you please

01:21:18.260 --> 01:21:25.460
read this? Ordinance amending Part 4, Traffic Code, Title 8, Parking, Chapter 480, Parking Generally,

01:21:25.460 --> 01:21:32.020
Section 480.24, Disabled Persons and Veterans of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Freeport

01:21:32.020 --> 01:21:35.140
at 304 to 310 West Garfield.

01:21:35.140 --> 01:21:36.739
Thank you, Manager Boyer.

01:21:36.739 --> 01:21:38.380
Thank you, Mayor.

01:21:38.380 --> 01:21:42.100
The tenant at 304 through 310 West Garfield contacted the city

01:21:42.100 --> 01:21:45.500
requesting an accessible parking space.

01:21:45.500 --> 01:21:48.100
The actual property doesn't have a driveway,

01:21:48.100 --> 01:21:51.300
and they have on-street parking only in that location.

01:21:51.300 --> 01:21:54.140
The neighbors generally park along the street edge

01:21:54.140 --> 01:21:57.260
and block the only accessible sidewalk there is,

01:21:57.260 --> 01:21:59.460
walkway to the residence.

01:21:59.460 --> 01:22:01.800
And staff is inspected and is making

01:22:01.800 --> 01:22:07.460
and the recommendation that we move forward with adding a parking restriction, which includes

01:22:07.460 --> 01:22:10.399
the disabled parking spot on Garfield.

01:22:10.399 --> 01:22:14.560
So also staff is requesting suspension of the rules so we can move forward with this.

01:22:14.560 --> 01:22:17.039
Is there a motion to move this forward?

01:22:17.039 --> 01:22:18.039
So move.

01:22:18.039 --> 01:22:19.039
Second.

01:22:19.039 --> 01:22:23.439
A motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Shadle to move this ordinance

01:22:23.439 --> 01:22:24.439
forward.

01:22:24.439 --> 01:22:25.439
Alderman Shadle?

01:22:25.439 --> 01:22:26.439
Yes.

01:22:26.439 --> 01:22:29.560
The only question I have, I'd be all for this.

01:22:29.560 --> 01:22:32.300
we need to take care of people that need that.

01:22:34.000 --> 01:22:37.000
The only question I have is in our ordinances,

01:22:37.000 --> 01:22:41.399
is there any stipulations that as these people,

01:22:41.399 --> 01:22:43.960
if they would move or if they would,

01:22:45.079 --> 01:22:48.640
I guess ultimately not be disabled anymore,

01:22:48.640 --> 01:22:53.199
is there any provisions for them to contact us

01:22:53.199 --> 01:22:56.960
so that we can move this back into a normal parking space

01:22:56.960 --> 01:22:58.239
if it's no longer needed?

01:22:58.239 --> 01:23:07.239
Yeah, and I agree with that. I'm not aware of any, but maybe the clerk has, yeah, I'm not aware of any requirement for them to notify the city that they've moved.

01:23:07.239 --> 01:23:09.239
Yeah, understood.

01:23:09.239 --> 01:23:11.239
Hold on, Ms. Stacy.

01:23:11.239 --> 01:23:20.239
Is this something that would be considered, no matter where you lived in the city? Do everybody have this right?

01:23:20.239 --> 01:23:26.399
Well, if you're mobility challenged, I think we've got to do our due diligence to ensure

01:23:26.399 --> 01:23:31.000
that we can do this for them, because, I mean, there are a lot of people here in town that

01:23:31.000 --> 01:23:32.000
we've done this for.

01:23:32.000 --> 01:23:35.840
This person doesn't have a driveway, correct?

01:23:35.840 --> 01:23:37.279
This person does not have a driveway.

01:23:37.279 --> 01:23:46.079
Okay, but I'm just saying, would this apply to everyone that had mobility problems that

01:23:46.079 --> 01:23:49.760
lived in this city, regardless of where they lived?

01:23:49.760 --> 01:23:55.760
Well, so far, we have not had very many requests, and of the ones that we've had, we've granted.

01:23:55.760 --> 01:23:57.760
Yeah.

01:23:57.760 --> 01:23:59.760
Alderman Sanders?

01:23:59.760 --> 01:24:15.760
Yeah, I'm very aware of that, and the fact that it's been done expeditiously, considered, I think, like the recommendation for all citizens in the City of Freeport that has immobility

01:24:15.760 --> 01:24:43.760
to manage their exiting, their entry and exit to be efficient enough for them to get in and out of their property and I like the fact that Alderman Shadle brought up the fact that if there's any changes in their status, will it go back to normal status of that property or that particular area.

01:24:43.760 --> 01:24:51.600
I like that. I think that should be something that we should continue to look at and to continue to consider.

01:24:51.600 --> 01:24:57.399
And I think it should be applied to all people in that condition, in that situation.

01:24:59.399 --> 01:25:00.319
Alderman Klemm.

01:25:00.319 --> 01:25:02.319
I make a motion to suspend the rules.

01:25:02.319 --> 01:25:03.000
Second.

01:25:04.319 --> 01:25:09.479
A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle for suspension of the rules.

01:25:09.479 --> 01:25:13.319
Suspension of the rules is non-debatable. It must pass by two-thirds majority.

01:25:13.319 --> 01:25:16.680
Madam Clerk, could you please take the vote on the suspension only?

01:25:16.680 --> 01:25:17.680
Stacy?

01:25:17.680 --> 01:25:18.680
Aye.

01:25:18.680 --> 01:25:19.680
Shadle?

01:25:19.680 --> 01:25:20.680
Aye.

01:25:20.680 --> 01:25:21.680
Sanders?

01:25:21.680 --> 01:25:22.680
Aye.

01:25:22.680 --> 01:25:23.680
Sellers?

01:25:23.680 --> 01:25:24.680
Aye.

01:25:24.680 --> 01:25:25.680
Klemm?

01:25:25.680 --> 01:25:26.680
Aye.

01:25:26.680 --> 01:25:27.680
Johnson?

01:25:27.680 --> 01:25:28.680
Aye.

01:25:28.680 --> 01:25:29.680
Simmons?

01:25:29.680 --> 01:25:30.680
Aye.

01:25:30.680 --> 01:25:31.680
Parker?

01:25:31.680 --> 01:25:32.680
Aye.

01:25:32.680 --> 01:25:33.680
The motion passes 8-0.

01:25:33.680 --> 01:25:34.680
And before your council, is the final passage for this ordinance, is there any further

01:25:34.680 --> 01:25:35.680
discussion?

01:25:35.680 --> 01:25:36.680
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:25:36.680 --> 01:25:37.680
Stacy?

01:25:37.680 --> 01:25:38.680
Aye.

01:25:38.680 --> 01:25:39.680
Shadle?

01:25:39.680 --> 01:25:40.680
Aye.

01:25:40.680 --> 01:25:41.680
Sanders?

01:25:41.680 --> 01:25:42.680
Aye.

01:25:42.680 --> 01:25:49.779
Simmons, Parker, and the ordinance passes 8 to 0 as well. And item number 12 is the

01:25:49.779 --> 01:25:54.640
first ring of ordinance 2025-52. Could you please read this? Ordinance authorizing

01:25:54.640 --> 01:25:58.640
the sale, recycling, donation, and or disposal of certain personal property

01:25:58.640 --> 01:26:03.399
owned by the city, police department abandoned personal property and bicycles,

01:26:03.399 --> 01:26:13.560
and an old chair in my office. Police Department. Thank you Madam Mayor. The

01:26:13.560 --> 01:26:16.359
background is the Freeport Police Department is currently in need of

01:26:16.359 --> 01:26:21.520
disposing property at the Freeport City Yards 1001 North Island Avenue and

01:26:21.520 --> 01:26:25.600
auction off abandoned property being held by evidence and property. In

01:26:25.600 --> 01:26:29.279
discussion there are abandoned bikes that have been in the possession of the

01:26:29.279 --> 01:26:32.600
Freeport Police Department for at least six months being stored at the Freeport

01:26:32.600 --> 01:26:33.600
Miller.

01:26:33.600 --> 01:26:39.640
There are also items being held by evidence and property that can be considered abandoned

01:26:39.640 --> 01:26:40.640
property.

01:26:40.640 --> 01:26:44.319
These items have been in the custody of the police department for at least six months.

01:26:44.319 --> 01:26:47.159
The owners of the items have been notified to pick up the property.

01:26:47.159 --> 01:26:50.119
However, the owners have been unresponsive.

01:26:50.119 --> 01:26:54.319
The Freeport Police Department would like to use propertyroom.com to auction off abandoned

01:26:54.319 --> 01:26:55.319
property.

01:26:55.319 --> 01:26:59.399
Any proceeds earned would go to the City of Freeport General Fund.

01:26:59.399 --> 01:27:05.399
Additionally, the clerk has one office chair that can be added to the disposal list.

01:27:05.399 --> 01:27:10.680
Funding, there is no funding necessary. Request, staff is requesting to recycle the bicycles,

01:27:10.680 --> 01:27:14.439
dispose of the clerk's chair, and auction off the abandoned property.

01:27:14.439 --> 01:27:17.880
Strategic plan alignment for responsive and efficient government.

01:27:19.640 --> 01:27:22.600
Is there a motion to move this forward? So moved. Second.

01:27:23.239 --> 01:27:27.560
A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Klemm.

01:27:27.560 --> 01:27:28.399
and

01:27:28.399 --> 01:27:31.399
I'm going to ask you if you want to wear a pair of these here.

01:27:31.399 --> 01:27:34.399
I'm just going to turn my hearing aids up.

01:27:34.399 --> 01:27:47.399
Well, I wanted to ask, is this the notification that went out to the community that you guys are going to do this disposal or auctioning?

01:27:47.399 --> 01:28:17.399
Fowler, and I'm going to ask is this the notification that went out to the community that you guys are going to do this disposal or auctioning and things of that nature where they can get more data information about if they want to come take a look to see if they want to take an opportunity to look at items that could be sold

01:28:17.399 --> 01:28:28.899
and I just wanted to make sure that our community is well informed about this and not only that,

01:28:28.899 --> 01:28:34.020
whatever the proceeds are that is generated from that, I think we should let the community

01:28:34.020 --> 01:28:43.340
know exactly what we've received from those donations, those sales that we're making.

01:28:43.340 --> 01:28:45.699
Is that okay with you?

01:28:45.699 --> 01:28:51.100
To answer your question, this is the notification that we're doing. If anybody in the community

01:28:51.100 --> 01:28:58.220
would like the opportunity to bid on those items, they are on, or will be on, PropertyRoom.com.

01:28:58.220 --> 01:29:05.140
PropertyRoom.com, when items sell, they then provide record of what it was sold for, what

01:29:05.140 --> 01:29:10.220
the amount was, and then those funds go back to the city, period.

01:29:10.220 --> 01:29:40.220
Period. So yeah, that's all I think. Alderman Parker? Motion to suspend the rules? Second. A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Klemm for suspension of the rules. Well, before we do a suspension of the rules, Mayor. That's what's on the motion right now. Yeah, I know the motion has been made, but are we done having a discussion before? We can come back to it if you want. Okay, that's what I'm getting at. So a suspension of the rules must pass by two-thirds majority. Madam Clerk, could you please take

01:29:40.220 --> 01:29:41.819
Make the roll on the suspension only.

01:29:41.819 --> 01:29:42.819
Stacy?

01:29:42.819 --> 01:29:43.819
Aye.

01:29:43.819 --> 01:29:44.020
Shadle?

01:29:44.020 --> 01:29:50.920
Tracy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons?

01:29:50.920 --> 01:29:57.880
Sint and Parker? Aye. The suspension passes seven to zero. Okay, so now before you is

01:29:57.880 --> 01:30:02.479
the second reading. So Alderman Sanders, did you have another question? You know,

01:30:02.479 --> 01:30:08.000
Mayor, when I get interrupted like that... Well, there was a motion on the floor, so

01:30:30.439 --> 01:30:33.520
The ordinance passes 7-0.

01:30:33.520 --> 01:30:40.560
number 13 is the adoption of resolution 2025 86 could you please read this resolution authorizing

01:30:40.560 --> 01:30:46.640
execution and amendment of downstate operating assistant program or dope grant agreement for

01:30:46.640 --> 01:30:54.239
fiscal year 2026 director duckman thank you madam mayor what is before you right now is

01:30:56.159 --> 01:31:00.960
a resolution for an agreement to with the illinois department of transportation

01:31:00.960 --> 01:31:06.119
to accept the 2.1 million dollars in funding for the operation of the

01:31:06.119 --> 01:31:13.359
pretzel city area transit program so we I've looked through the proposed budget

01:31:13.359 --> 01:31:18.479
it's been approved with through the Illinois Department of Transportation and

01:31:18.479 --> 01:31:24.359
staff is recommending approval of this resolution is there a motion for

01:31:24.359 --> 01:31:25.359
Settler.

01:31:25.359 --> 01:31:26.359
So moved.

01:31:26.359 --> 01:31:27.359
Second.

01:31:27.359 --> 01:31:32.880
There will be a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

01:31:32.880 --> 01:31:33.880
Discussion on the resolution?

01:31:33.880 --> 01:31:37.279
Alderman Sanders.

01:31:37.279 --> 01:31:48.880
The grant, how is that prioritized throughout the city and who's receiving this grant and

01:31:48.880 --> 01:31:55.659
and how it's going to be beneficial to the constituents of the city, where when everyone

01:31:55.659 --> 01:32:04.800
should have the opportunity to utilize all of the services of this grant opportunity,

01:32:04.800 --> 01:32:12.180
I just don't want it to be a targeted type of grant for any particular department, entity

01:32:12.180 --> 01:32:16.840
or whatever the case may be, I want to know how we're prioritizing all of these kinds

01:32:16.840 --> 01:32:17.840
of things.

01:32:17.840 --> 01:32:20.239
So this city manager, would you like to address that, please?

01:32:20.239 --> 01:32:24.239
Yes, I would. Alderman Sanders, I just wanted to reassure you, this is Pretzel City Transit.

01:32:24.239 --> 01:32:27.640
Everybody has access to it, and that is what this is for.

01:32:27.640 --> 01:32:33.239
Well, you may make a short statement like that, but that's not what I heard last week, okay?

01:32:33.239 --> 01:32:35.239
Okay, so are you asking for your second round of questions?

01:32:35.239 --> 01:32:40.239
Well, no, he's making a statement toward me. He's making a comment toward me.

01:32:40.239 --> 01:32:43.239
It's not me using my time.

01:32:43.239 --> 01:32:45.439
Okay, then I haven't given you the floor.

01:32:45.439 --> 01:32:46.439
Johnson.

01:32:46.439 --> 01:32:48.640
So I'm asking you, would you like to have your second time?

01:32:48.640 --> 01:32:50.239
Why would I want to do that when I'm answering?

01:32:50.239 --> 01:32:52.140
Okay, then I will move on.

01:32:52.140 --> 01:32:56.720
You can't do that, Mayor, because I am answering him.

01:32:56.720 --> 01:32:57.720
He didn't ask you a question.

01:32:57.720 --> 01:33:02.380
He's making a, as far as I'm concerned, he's making a comment that is making a reference

01:33:02.380 --> 01:33:05.159
to what I'm talking about already.

01:33:05.159 --> 01:33:10.359
And my point of the matter is, if he's going to say stuff like that, I should be able to

01:33:10.359 --> 01:33:11.800
rebut it.

01:33:11.800 --> 01:33:12.800
That's all I'm saying.

01:33:12.800 --> 01:33:17.279
I should be able to rebut what he is saying without using my own question.

01:33:17.279 --> 01:33:19.439
Okay, so you're using your second turn.

01:33:19.439 --> 01:33:21.119
I'm not using a second turn.

01:33:21.119 --> 01:33:22.159
Okay, then we're going to move on.

01:33:23.039 --> 01:33:24.479
Do we have anything else on this?

01:33:25.039 --> 01:33:25.680
You know what?

01:33:25.680 --> 01:33:26.479
Alderman Stacy.

01:33:29.710 --> 01:33:37.229
Explain to me what this grant agreement consists of.

01:33:38.510 --> 01:33:44.590
Who weeps the benefits from it and what does it do for our city?

01:33:45.229 --> 01:33:51.270
sure the short answer very you know to not complicate things but I'll get

01:33:51.270 --> 01:33:56.029
complicated later the short answer is if we do not enter this agreement pretzel

01:33:56.029 --> 01:34:02.590
city area transit does not exist so we need this agreement to fund the pretzel

01:34:02.590 --> 01:34:08.789
city area transit for 2.1 million dollars so if we don't it I mean it's I

01:34:08.789 --> 01:34:13.550
can't say it any more plain than that it's very simple if we don't approve

01:34:13.550 --> 01:34:15.550
and

01:34:16.670 --> 01:34:18.670
John.

01:34:19.750 --> 01:34:21.750
And if we don't do this, pretzel city area transit will not

01:34:21.869 --> 01:34:25.869
exist. Pretzel city area transit exists because of this grant.

01:34:25.869 --> 01:34:27.869
That money goes to nowhere else.

01:34:29.869 --> 01:34:31.869
So we've gotten this grant before.

01:34:32.970 --> 01:34:34.970
Always. And all of this 2.

01:34:36.270 --> 01:34:38.270
1 million goes to pretzel city. Yes.

01:34:39.369 --> 01:34:41.369
And that's how they've been able to exist all this time in

01:34:41.470 --> 01:34:45.039
Freeport? That is correct.

01:34:45.119 --> 01:34:52.079
I can make it simple make it plain it says we need this for pretzel city to

01:34:52.079 --> 01:34:58.399
exist without it there is none I thought it was clear in the memo but I can say it

01:34:58.399 --> 01:35:02.359
more I said it more plain now I can certainly make it more plain next time

01:35:02.359 --> 01:35:14.399
next round I like to make us yeah I hope what I said earlier was not ignored okay

01:35:14.399 --> 01:35:18.439
because of the fact that I asked the priorities of entities

01:35:18.439 --> 01:35:21.239
that are gonna be utilizing this grant.

01:35:21.239 --> 01:35:24.399
That's what I did bring to the floor.

01:35:24.399 --> 01:35:26.720
I wanted to make sure that we had clarity

01:35:26.720 --> 01:35:31.720
to what entity in this city is using that particular grant,

01:35:32.199 --> 01:35:34.279
not just to Pressell City,

01:35:34.279 --> 01:35:38.479
but whether or not any other department

01:35:38.479 --> 01:35:40.359
or whatever that's throughout the city

01:35:41.359 --> 01:35:42.960
gonna be utilizing this grant.

01:35:42.960 --> 01:35:45.880
that's the part that I wanna stay focused on.

01:35:45.880 --> 01:35:49.680
Don't discard that or dismiss it

01:35:49.680 --> 01:35:51.319
like I didn't even mention it.

01:35:51.319 --> 01:35:55.760
I would like to know if there's any other establishment

01:35:55.760 --> 01:35:59.079
or department heads or whatever department

01:35:59.079 --> 01:36:00.560
are gonna be using this grant.

01:36:00.560 --> 01:36:03.439
And I hear of Pressell City, I understand that.

01:36:03.439 --> 01:36:07.180
But the breakdown of this grant,

01:36:07.180 --> 01:36:09.279
is it just for the Pressell City

01:36:09.279 --> 01:36:11.600
or any other governing body?

01:36:11.600 --> 01:36:20.960
The only, this grant stands for DOAP, stands for Downstate Operating Assistance Program.

01:36:20.960 --> 01:36:27.039
And that grant is specific for rural communities, which we are, per their grant guidelines,

01:36:27.039 --> 01:36:30.399
and it's for public transportation.

01:36:30.399 --> 01:36:35.840
So that is the only, this grant money is only used for Pretzel City Transit.

01:36:35.840 --> 01:36:40.600
That's all it can be used for, and we apply for it every year.

01:36:40.600 --> 01:37:00.699
Petzl City Area Transit provides on-demand transportation services within Freeport and

01:37:00.699 --> 01:37:02.079
Stevenson County.

01:37:02.079 --> 01:37:05.920
Funding to provide transportation services are obtained through annual applications under

01:37:05.920 --> 01:37:10.479
Under the State of Illinois 5311 and Downstate Operating Assistance Program grants.

01:37:10.479 --> 01:37:16.840
So to your point, Alderperson Stacy, that's where I had said it does not exist without

01:37:16.840 --> 01:37:19.279
this grant assistance.

01:37:19.279 --> 01:37:23.079
Then I go on to discussion and I say as part of our annual transportation grant application

01:37:23.079 --> 01:37:28.920
to the State of Illinois under the 5311 Transportation Program and Downstate Operating Assistance

01:37:28.920 --> 01:37:32.680
Program, the City of Freeport is required to have council approve the following.

01:37:32.680 --> 01:37:37.359
One, an ordinance adopting transportation services within Freeport and Stevenson County.

01:37:37.359 --> 01:37:43.159
Two, a resolution authorizing an application to be made to the Office of Intermodal Project Implementation,

01:37:43.159 --> 01:37:50.239
Department of Transportation, State of Illinois, for a financial assistance grant under Section 5311 for fiscal year 2026

01:37:50.239 --> 01:37:56.640
for the purchase of offsetting a portion of the public transportation program operating deficits to the City of Freeport.

01:37:56.640 --> 01:38:06.140
3. A resolution accepting that the City of Freeport is participating and said operating assistance programs will provide local and matching funds once application is approved.

01:38:06.140 --> 01:38:09.640
That is what you are on right now.

01:38:09.640 --> 01:38:14.640
Items 1 through 2 were approved prior to the submittal of the transportation grant applications.

01:38:14.640 --> 01:38:22.640
Resolution authorizing the execution of the Downstate Operating Assistance Program grant is now presented to accept and enter into the grant agreement.

01:38:22.640 --> 01:38:25.640
and the recommendation is staff recommends approval of the resolution

01:38:25.640 --> 01:38:28.640
in order to move forward with the grant agreement.

01:38:28.640 --> 01:38:31.640
Thank you. Alderman Shadle, did you have more?

01:38:31.640 --> 01:38:37.640
I just would like to say that that was in the memo hyperlinked by our city clerk.

01:38:37.640 --> 01:38:39.640
Mayor, you've already spoke twice.

01:38:39.640 --> 01:38:43.640
Yeah, but you didn't ask me if I had more. You did not ask me if I had more.

01:38:43.640 --> 01:38:45.640
Well, that's because you just interrupt all the time.

01:38:45.640 --> 01:38:51.640
Yeah, well, you can't say that. My point is when I was on the floor...

01:38:51.640 --> 01:38:54.479
Alderman Sanders, will you please wait until you are called on.

01:38:54.479 --> 01:38:57.000
Yeah, but you didn't ask me if I had more to say.

01:38:57.000 --> 01:38:57.800
You're being disruptive.

01:38:57.800 --> 01:39:00.079
Please don't make me call you out of order.

01:39:00.079 --> 01:39:03.039
Alderman Stacy, did you have something?

01:39:03.039 --> 01:39:08.000
Is there any other discussion on this particular resolution?

01:39:08.000 --> 01:39:09.680
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:39:09.680 --> 01:39:12.119
Stacy?

01:39:12.119 --> 01:39:12.840
Aye.

01:39:12.840 --> 01:39:13.399
Shadle?

01:39:13.399 --> 01:39:13.960
Aye.

01:39:13.960 --> 01:39:14.559
Sanders?

01:39:14.559 --> 01:39:15.159
Aye.

01:39:15.159 --> 01:39:15.920
Sellers?

01:39:15.920 --> 01:39:16.440
Aye.

01:39:16.440 --> 01:39:17.000
Klemm?

01:39:17.000 --> 01:39:17.559
Aye.

01:39:17.559 --> 01:39:18.199
Johnson?

01:39:18.199 --> 01:39:18.699
Aye.

01:39:18.699 --> 01:39:19.359
Simmons?

01:39:19.359 --> 01:39:20.039
Aye.

01:39:20.039 --> 01:39:20.840
And Parker?

01:39:20.840 --> 01:39:21.479
Aye.

01:39:21.479 --> 01:39:24.079
The resolution is adopted eight to zero.

01:39:24.079 --> 01:39:27.479
Item number 14 is adoption of resolution 202587.

01:39:27.479 --> 01:39:28.720
Could you please read this?

01:39:28.720 --> 01:39:31.039
Resolution approving an agreement with Fehr Graham

01:39:31.039 --> 01:39:33.199
to provide construction engineering services

01:39:33.199 --> 01:39:35.359
for Walnut Avenue lift station.

01:39:35.359 --> 01:39:37.000
Manager Boyer.

01:39:37.000 --> 01:39:37.920
Thank you, your honor.

01:39:37.920 --> 01:39:40.880
Just to touch on Walnut Street lift station,

01:39:40.880 --> 01:39:42.079
the idea is would the

01:39:42.079 --> 01:39:46.800
St. Lift Station. The idea is the lift station we put near the corner of Land Road and Walnut Road.

01:39:46.800 --> 01:39:53.920
The purpose of the lift station is to convey waste under pressure from that location to the

01:39:53.920 --> 01:39:59.359
interceptor on the other side of the bridge on Walnut Road to the north side. The reason this is

01:39:59.359 --> 01:40:07.600
necessary is because we currently have industry in that area that utilize a very old part, a lateral

01:40:07.600 --> 01:40:37.600
that connects to the interceptor. That if ever failed, it would be very challenging to work on due to its depth of over 20 feet and its proximity to the landfill. Therefore, that is one aspect. The other aspect is there's additional development that needs to be done there. There's empty lots that need to be brought online. And when we add additional demand on the system, we will be challenged to convey that waste to the interceptor. And lastly, as we build the well 12

01:40:37.600 --> 01:40:51.600
We have a lot of projects on Forest Road. Designs are including the Walnut Street lift station as a way to convey the waste from that area of Walnut and Lamb to the interceptor.

01:40:51.600 --> 01:41:05.600
So with that being said, we need to have a construction over supervision contract so that we can make sure that the lift station is built appropriately and correctly.

01:41:05.600 --> 01:41:10.880
So, Fehr Graham has designed and bid the sanitary sewer lift station, forced main piping and

01:41:10.880 --> 01:41:15.880
gravity piping improvements on the land road area sanitary sewer flow.

01:41:15.880 --> 01:41:21.640
The sewer system on land road district carries a significant flow to the city interceptor

01:41:21.640 --> 01:41:27.680
on the daily basis and a public bid was opened and was held on Tuesday, July 22nd at 1030

01:41:27.680 --> 01:41:28.680
in the morning.

01:41:28.680 --> 01:41:35.479
I might also add that our largest water customer uses this section of lateral every day

01:41:35.479 --> 01:41:41.079
to dispose of the waste for the processing of food. This is very important because they go through a

01:41:41.079 --> 01:41:46.680
lot of water and their contribution to our utility is what helps keep our utility rates

01:41:46.680 --> 01:41:52.920
at a reasonable level. The Fehr Graham scope service will provide professional full-time

01:41:52.920 --> 01:41:57.640
on-site construction engineering and observation as well as a contract management services for the

01:41:57.640 --> 01:42:03.880
the City of Freeport. Fehr Graham shall additionally provide GIS survey collection, staking layout

01:42:03.880 --> 01:42:08.960
for the sewer piping, roadway boring, and road improvements. Construction observation

01:42:08.960 --> 01:42:18.079
will include materials, shop drawings, field construction engineering, required documentation,

01:42:18.079 --> 01:42:24.640
specification adherence, and the required QAQC methods. Fehr Graham will ensure the

01:42:24.640 --> 01:42:29.220
is built in accordance with the city, state, and county standards along with filling all

01:42:29.220 --> 01:42:34.699
required documentation in accordance with IEPA water pollution policies.

01:42:34.699 --> 01:42:39.899
Buy America, Build America certification and material compliance will be tracked to

01:42:39.899 --> 01:42:44.579
infrastructure requirements, geotechnical testing services for aggregate density and

01:42:44.579 --> 01:42:50.079
hot mix asphalt QAQC testing will be provided by Fehr Graham through a third-party professional

01:42:50.079 --> 01:42:52.720
geotech agency as required.

01:42:52.720 --> 01:42:59.399
The City plans to fund the $224,250 construction engineering contract through the Lamb Road

01:42:59.399 --> 01:43:00.399
TIF.

01:43:00.399 --> 01:43:03.079
Staff recommends moving forward with the contract with Fehr Graham.

01:43:03.079 --> 01:43:04.880
Is there a motion to adopt?

01:43:04.880 --> 01:43:05.880
So moved.

01:43:05.880 --> 01:43:06.880
Second.

01:43:06.880 --> 01:43:11.960
A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

01:43:11.960 --> 01:43:12.960
Discussion on the resolution?

01:43:12.960 --> 01:43:15.000
Alderman Sellers?

01:43:15.000 --> 01:43:21.840
Could you also explain what TIF, the money for TIF out there at the Lamb Road can only

01:43:21.840 --> 01:43:23.659
Beard, Sabael, and

01:43:23.659 --> 01:43:25.680
Erika, who's also the

01:43:25.680 --> 01:43:27.079
new President of the

01:43:27.079 --> 01:43:28.079
City of Michigan.

01:43:28.079 --> 01:43:29.079
I'm going to ask you

01:43:29.079 --> 01:43:30.079
if you have a

01:43:30.079 --> 01:43:31.079
budget for the TIF money.

01:43:31.079 --> 01:43:32.079
Can it be used for

01:43:32.079 --> 01:43:33.079
economic development?

01:43:33.079 --> 01:43:34.079
Yes.

01:43:34.079 --> 01:43:35.079
The TIF money is for economic

01:43:35.079 --> 01:43:36.079
development, and this is

01:43:36.079 --> 01:43:37.079
necessary infrastructure as we

01:43:37.079 --> 01:43:38.079
move forward with additional

01:43:38.079 --> 01:43:39.079
economic development.

01:43:39.079 --> 01:43:40.079
My second.

01:43:40.079 --> 01:43:41.079
Sure.

01:43:41.079 --> 01:43:42.079
So you also, the TIF money

01:43:42.079 --> 01:43:43.319
cannot go to any of the citizens

01:43:43.319 --> 01:43:44.319
or anything.

01:43:44.319 --> 01:43:45.319
The money has to go to

01:43:45.319 --> 01:43:46.920
redevelopment of that area,

01:43:46.920 --> 01:43:47.920
correct?

01:43:47.920 --> 01:43:48.920
Yeah.

01:43:48.920 --> 01:43:51.039
In line with TIF, the use of

01:43:51.039 --> 01:43:52.039
Lerner.

01:43:52.039 --> 01:43:56.840
We have a lot of TIF funds that can be used for economic development incentives.

01:43:56.840 --> 01:44:01.319
It can be used for infrastructure improvements, but things that are related to the Land Road

01:44:01.319 --> 01:44:04.560
TIF in the form of economic development.

01:44:04.560 --> 01:44:07.930
Lawrence Sanders?

01:44:07.930 --> 01:44:08.930
Yeah.

01:44:08.930 --> 01:44:19.489
I've been studying this whole process, and as far as I am concerned, we don't have the

01:44:19.489 --> 01:44:23.130
and the historical fact of that development area.

01:44:23.130 --> 01:44:25.090
I'm talking about council.

01:44:25.090 --> 01:44:27.930
I'm directing this information and things like that

01:44:27.930 --> 01:44:30.529
to council since we're the ones that are voting

01:44:33.329 --> 01:44:37.210
to move forward on these matters.

01:44:37.210 --> 01:44:41.210
And I don't hear no one speaking out on the real issues

01:44:43.970 --> 01:44:47.609
that are being considered here and we have not evaluated.

01:44:47.609 --> 01:44:50.649
and I feel that we are being incompetent

01:44:51.770 --> 01:44:54.689
not looking into these matters

01:44:54.689 --> 01:44:58.609
because obviously that's the reason why

01:44:58.609 --> 01:45:01.329
I always want the clerk from this point on

01:45:01.329 --> 01:45:06.329
to submit to council what we discussed previously

01:45:07.289 --> 01:45:09.529
and the fact that we're not hearing

01:45:09.529 --> 01:45:10.729
what they're talking about.

01:45:10.729 --> 01:45:14.050
We're just being passive at this point

01:45:14.050 --> 01:45:17.569
of not really getting down to the real point

01:45:17.569 --> 01:45:21.010
of the Matter, whether or not we should be moving forward,

01:45:21.010 --> 01:45:25.930
whether or not we're not addressing the historical facts

01:45:25.930 --> 01:45:29.250
about that whole area, that whole development area

01:45:29.250 --> 01:45:32.050
and why it's there and is it causing the city

01:45:32.050 --> 01:45:37.729
any complication that creates the taxpayers

01:45:37.729 --> 01:45:42.489
to have to fund these particular matters.

01:45:42.489 --> 01:45:45.050
We have not discussed how much material stuff

01:45:45.050 --> 01:45:47.890
We have not talked about what's going to be involved, how much it's going to cost.

01:45:47.890 --> 01:45:53.250
We have not talked about who's running the project.

01:45:53.250 --> 01:45:59.649
We know that we have engineers who's doing a survey of it, but my point is who's in charge

01:45:59.649 --> 01:46:01.010
of the project.

01:46:01.010 --> 01:46:09.529
And so we have not established our own understanding of what's going on out there because we have

01:46:09.529 --> 01:46:13.010
and I have no clue to why these things are put in place

01:46:13.010 --> 01:46:17.210
or trying to implement these things to put them in place.

01:46:17.210 --> 01:46:19.409
Is it necessary?

01:46:19.409 --> 01:46:22.850
Absolutely, if it's necessary, I can understand it.

01:46:22.850 --> 01:46:25.729
I understand what Bob Boyer was talking about.

01:46:25.729 --> 01:46:28.890
Future development.

01:46:28.890 --> 01:46:32.649
This thing has been in place for over 30, 40 years.

01:46:32.649 --> 01:46:35.090
There has not been a disruption.

01:46:35.090 --> 01:46:37.529
There has not been any complication.

01:46:37.529 --> 01:46:39.489
I don't even know if they're still doing

01:46:39.489 --> 01:46:43.970
monitoring which I know that the city used to monitor

01:46:43.970 --> 01:46:47.649
those areas and then not only that go into those areas

01:46:47.649 --> 01:46:52.050
of the sectors and the sanitary and all these,

01:46:52.050 --> 01:46:54.010
they usually monitor these things

01:46:54.010 --> 01:46:59.010
and there should be reports, data on who's keeping

01:47:01.489 --> 01:47:04.170
this type of material before the people

01:47:04.170 --> 01:47:05.689
of the city of Freeport.

01:47:05.689 --> 01:47:07.970
I know these things are in place

01:47:07.970 --> 01:47:12.449
but are we getting the right proper information

01:47:12.449 --> 01:47:14.930
at this current time to establish

01:47:14.930 --> 01:47:19.090
why we should put a lift station

01:47:20.770 --> 01:47:25.010
that's only gonna serve probably one or two entities

01:47:26.090 --> 01:47:28.210
and then not only that, not to talk about

01:47:28.210 --> 01:47:31.850
the capacity of the flow that's supposed to be pushing

01:47:31.850 --> 01:47:36.130
through these force mains or through these lift stations.

01:47:36.130 --> 01:47:37.569
We're not talking about that.

01:47:37.569 --> 01:47:39.130
is it necessary?

01:47:39.130 --> 01:47:40.609
If we're not talking about that,

01:47:40.609 --> 01:47:43.510
then why are we setting up a lift station

01:47:43.510 --> 01:47:46.810
that we have no understanding of why we need this

01:47:46.810 --> 01:47:50.689
because of lack of capacity or lack of industries

01:47:50.689 --> 01:47:53.649
that have not utilized this area?

01:47:53.649 --> 01:47:57.010
So to put a lift station in at this current time

01:47:57.010 --> 01:48:01.770
does not have us in a position

01:48:01.770 --> 01:48:04.689
where we should be voting for something

01:48:04.689 --> 01:48:06.090
to move forward on this

01:48:06.090 --> 01:48:09.090
until we have done an assessment evaluation

01:48:09.090 --> 01:48:12.489
to understand the whole historical point of it all.

01:48:12.489 --> 01:48:13.630
Four minutes is up.

01:48:13.630 --> 01:48:14.470
Four minutes?

01:48:14.470 --> 01:48:15.690
Yep, your four minutes is up.

01:48:15.690 --> 01:48:16.529
Okay.

01:48:16.529 --> 01:48:17.649
Holden and Shadle?

01:48:17.649 --> 01:48:21.729
Yes, this is all coming about

01:48:21.729 --> 01:48:25.010
because when Snack King does their washout,

01:48:25.010 --> 01:48:28.949
this does run at virtual capacity.

01:48:28.949 --> 01:48:30.210
That's why we're here.

01:48:30.210 --> 01:48:32.409
No, that is not why we're here.

01:48:32.409 --> 01:48:33.390
And-

01:48:33.390 --> 01:48:34.229
Please stop lying.

01:48:34.229 --> 01:48:53.600
I would at this point as the fact of the matter I was been called a liar sitting

01:48:53.600 --> 01:49:00.520
on the floor I would like to ask manager Boyer or Mr. Steekle to clarify my

01:49:00.520 --> 01:49:07.640
statement please. I think what you're talking about Greg is the the fact that

01:49:07.640 --> 01:49:12.079
we have a human dependent process at Snack King and if that human dependent

01:49:12.079 --> 01:49:16.279
failed at any time that would complicate things substantially there at the corner

01:49:16.279 --> 01:49:23.920
of Lamb and Walnut Road, right near an important facility, the county nursing home. So in addition

01:49:23.920 --> 01:49:30.239
to the benefits of having the proper capacity for our existing industry, having the availability

01:49:30.239 --> 01:49:36.159
for the build out of future industry, and also the convenience of wastewater backwash

01:49:36.159 --> 01:49:40.000
Cash from the new Well 12, and then a potential for build out along the way.

01:49:40.000 --> 01:49:41.239
and then the potential for build out along Forest Road.

01:49:41.239 --> 01:49:42.720
I mean, these are all the reasons

01:49:42.720 --> 01:49:46.279
that this is an important project.

01:49:46.279 --> 01:49:47.119
Alderman Parker.

01:49:49.279 --> 01:49:52.979
We already have it.

01:49:52.979 --> 01:50:01.060
Alderman Stacey.

01:50:01.060 --> 01:50:01.899
Okay.

01:50:03.279 --> 01:50:05.159
I need some real numbers.

01:50:06.739 --> 01:50:08.640
Not a portion.

01:50:09.739 --> 01:50:13.039
Because truth be told, the 234,000

01:50:14.359 --> 01:50:17.739
is engineering fees only, am I correct?

01:50:17.920 --> 01:50:47.920
There is 11 other processes that have to be completed, and they're not little things, they're big things, so we can approve this 234,000, but to have this project completed in full with all these things that's not mentioned, that's not talked about to the public, the traffic studies, the permit fees, the utilities,

01:50:47.920 --> 01:50:54.920
We haven't had no issues. There's no government, nothing that we're violating. So, do we need

01:51:19.489 --> 01:51:22.710
We can't make this now?

01:51:22.710 --> 01:51:27.270
Can we afford this now?

01:51:27.270 --> 01:51:28.630
No we can not.

01:51:28.630 --> 01:51:30.890
Darin, did you want to address those questions?

01:51:30.890 --> 01:51:32.430
Certainly.

01:51:32.430 --> 01:51:36.029
So with every contract, there's always exclusions that are put

01:51:36.029 --> 01:51:38.029
on there for unforeseen.

01:51:38.029 --> 01:51:42.710
But realistically, this project should come in at this amount

01:51:42.710 --> 01:51:45.449
with our fees or even under.

01:51:45.449 --> 01:51:47.729
We have lots of projects where we get a fee here

01:51:47.729 --> 01:51:49.390
and we end up coming in under and not

01:51:49.390 --> 01:51:50.489
charging the whole amount.

01:51:50.489 --> 01:51:56.010
so we put those exclusions in we wrote a scope that we think will complete the

01:51:56.010 --> 01:52:01.109
entire project but we always have to put exclusions because I can't put those

01:52:01.109 --> 01:52:06.210
items in on every thing without charging more every contract without charging

01:52:06.210 --> 01:52:11.649
more money we don't need a traffic study we we don't do restaking we only stake

01:52:11.649 --> 01:52:15.329
one time and then the contractors responsible for it the second time so

01:52:15.329 --> 01:52:19.250
those are expenses that don't come back to the city but we have to clarify that

01:52:19.250 --> 01:52:24.529
and a contract so we know where we stand and we know what the city's paying for okay so shouldn't

01:52:24.529 --> 01:52:31.569
we put on the side not need it do not apply that's that's what an exclusion is it's assume that it's

01:52:31.569 --> 01:52:37.569
not needed assuming it's not needed correct well you have to make some assumptions we're working

01:52:37.569 --> 01:52:41.729
underground so i can tell you right now we don't need a traffic study we already met with the

01:52:41.729 --> 01:52:46.770
county the county owns the road they're not asking for a traffic study so that won't be one that's

01:52:46.770 --> 01:52:47.770
Southerland.

01:52:47.770 --> 01:52:52.729
We always exclude staking and restaking because the city is not going to pay for it twice.

01:52:52.729 --> 01:52:57.850
We pay for it once, and then if it has to be restaked, it's on the contractor to pay

01:52:57.850 --> 01:52:59.210
for it the second time.

01:52:59.210 --> 01:53:08.329
So we put exclusions in there to protect the city, not to provide other costs.

01:53:08.329 --> 01:53:10.970
You can ask anybody involved with the city.

01:53:10.970 --> 01:53:13.630
We typically never come back for additional costs.

01:53:13.630 --> 01:53:17.350
We try to write good scopes that include everything from the get-go.

01:53:17.350 --> 01:53:21.829
So I can tell you that the amount that we put here should complete the construction.

01:53:21.829 --> 01:53:25.630
The $234,000 should complete this whole project.

01:53:25.630 --> 01:53:26.630
Yes.

01:53:26.630 --> 01:53:29.329
It's already been designed and bid.

01:53:29.329 --> 01:53:32.350
This is the construction resident engineering services.

01:53:32.350 --> 01:53:37.130
This is the quality assurance, the construction part of getting the station built and getting

01:53:37.130 --> 01:53:40.109
all the piping in the ground for an active running station.

01:53:40.109 --> 01:53:42.909
And all this money is coming from the Land World TIF.

01:53:42.909 --> 01:53:43.909
Walsh.

01:53:43.909 --> 01:53:44.909
Okay.

01:53:44.909 --> 01:53:48.109
So let me remind you when the back and forth, so if you have several questions, you should

01:53:48.109 --> 01:53:50.189
ask them all at once.

01:53:50.189 --> 01:53:52.270
That is correct.

01:53:52.270 --> 01:53:55.069
And there's no debt on that TIF?

01:53:55.069 --> 01:53:58.069
Is there a debt on the land road TIF?

01:53:58.069 --> 01:54:01.350
Is there an existing debt?

01:54:01.350 --> 01:54:05.149
I can't answer that, but I believe there's no debt.

01:54:05.149 --> 01:54:06.149
I know there's no debt.

01:54:06.149 --> 01:54:10.789
It's 2.3 million is what you're having to pay for it.

01:54:10.789 --> 01:54:13.710
So there's actually money in the bank.

01:54:13.710 --> 01:54:16.189
There's no debt service that I'm aware of on that.

01:54:16.189 --> 01:54:19.069
I mean, I actually think it's closer to three million.

01:54:19.069 --> 01:54:19.569
It might.

01:54:19.569 --> 01:54:21.109
Shadle, did you have?

01:54:21.109 --> 01:54:26.510
I did, please.

01:54:26.510 --> 01:54:34.430
Manager Boyer mentioned the future expansion.

01:54:34.430 --> 01:54:41.109
This new well that we're putting out, well, 12,

01:54:41.109 --> 01:54:44.489
there's gonna be sewer added, water added out.

01:54:47.329 --> 01:54:52.069
This is the opportunity that we've been looking for,

01:54:52.069 --> 01:54:56.109
for quite some time to have shovel ready land

01:54:57.029 --> 01:54:59.229
for development.

01:54:59.229 --> 01:55:04.229
One of the main reasons we haven't seen a new factory

01:55:04.550 --> 01:55:08.229
in this town is we don't have a place shovel ready

01:55:08.229 --> 01:55:11.050
to put it.

01:55:11.050 --> 01:55:12.649
We can put the sewer pipes in,

01:55:12.649 --> 01:55:17.489
We can put the water pipes in, but if we don't have this lift station, there's not enough

01:55:17.489 --> 01:55:23.609
capacity in the existing to handle the future development.

01:55:23.609 --> 01:55:25.689
That's why we need this.

01:55:25.689 --> 01:55:29.489
Yes, that's called forward thinking.

01:55:29.489 --> 01:55:30.489
Alderman Sanders.

01:55:30.489 --> 01:55:38.909
Yeah, well, Alderman Shadle was making these comments about something that has not had

01:55:38.909 --> 01:55:41.850
a survey to them, first of all.

01:55:41.850 --> 01:55:54.329
and he does not have what we call a prediction, a pendant or crystal ball.

01:55:54.329 --> 01:56:00.250
He don't have any of those things before him and the city is not just going to have items

01:56:00.250 --> 01:56:07.369
sitting out in the field for God knows for how long waiting for a manufacturer to show

01:56:07.369 --> 01:56:09.369
and

01:56:10.369 --> 01:56:12.369
John.

01:56:13.609 --> 01:56:15.609
And I think that's why I'm so happy

01:56:16.729 --> 01:56:18.729
to be here and to be able to show up to make a development or

01:56:19.850 --> 01:56:21.850
whatever the case is that the council don't have no clue about

01:56:22.949 --> 01:56:24.949
any kind of manufacturing even being considered.

01:56:27.229 --> 01:56:29.229
And so my thing is we're dumping money into a ground and then

01:56:30.329 --> 01:56:32.329
we're going to wait while the taxpayers are suffering from all

01:56:34.329 --> 01:56:36.329
angles of this city needing all kinds of grant program fundings

01:56:37.369 --> 01:56:38.369
and others.

01:56:38.369 --> 01:56:49.489
So I think what we have not done was looked at the whole scope of the matter, whether

01:56:49.489 --> 01:56:57.489
or not we're using the money considered here to put on these projects for future, for future

01:56:57.489 --> 01:56:58.489
advancements.

01:56:58.489 --> 01:57:04.289
And I don't think that should be something that we should be doing at this time if it's

01:57:04.289 --> 01:57:05.289
Winslow.

01:57:05.289 --> 01:57:13.170
If it's not an emergency need, if it's not anything that is going to help the city currently,

01:57:13.170 --> 01:57:19.210
right now kind of project, then there shouldn't be shovel readies to come in unless we have

01:57:19.210 --> 01:57:24.369
perspective prospects that are considering moving to this city and then we would make

01:57:24.369 --> 01:57:29.210
those alterations or those changes as necessary and as needed.

01:57:29.210 --> 01:57:35.930
but before then, the funds should not go anywhere until these things are absolutely needed.

01:57:35.930 --> 01:57:40.529
That's my opinion on that and I think that's how we should move forward.

01:57:40.529 --> 01:57:42.729
Darren, did you want to add to?

01:57:42.729 --> 01:57:47.170
Yes, so you're entitled to your opinion but I would like to give you some facts.

01:57:47.170 --> 01:57:53.689
So this station wouldn't be in reserve, it would be put into operation the day it was

01:57:53.689 --> 01:57:58.569
constructed because the waste from all of the Lamb Road TIF district would be going

01:57:58.569 --> 01:58:28.569
Fowler, and I think we've got a lot of people that are looking into that as soon as it was built because we have the need now. The line, the capacity of that line is at max capacity. We've even had to go to Snack King and ask them to throttle down their flow so we can effectively serve that entire district. I would like to put another question out there. I've heard numerous times mentioned in the last two weeks because we talked about this at the COW.

01:58:28.569 --> 01:58:29.569
Huffines.

01:58:29.569 --> 01:58:33.809
It was a once in a lifetime deal with the county money.

01:58:33.809 --> 01:58:36.149
The counties expended all of their money.

01:58:36.149 --> 01:58:41.649
There is no way the city of Freeport nor the county can effectively cost to run out to

01:58:41.649 --> 01:58:42.649
mill race.

01:58:42.649 --> 01:58:46.809
It would require two or three more lift stations to even get that far.

01:58:46.809 --> 01:58:51.690
So that project's never going to happen in our lifetimes unless somebody comes and gives

01:58:51.690 --> 01:58:53.930
us a massive gift of free money.

01:58:53.930 --> 01:58:59.489
The station is truly to service the Lamb Road District area and probably some development

01:58:59.489 --> 01:59:03.869
probably from Baileyville Road and then maybe on Forest Road.

01:59:03.869 --> 01:59:05.649
That is what this station will serve.

01:59:05.649 --> 01:59:12.569
The City of Freeport currently has nine lift stations in service that we service flow from

01:59:12.569 --> 01:59:15.989
all different areas of the town because of our elevations.

01:59:15.989 --> 01:59:19.130
This is adding another lift station to our capacity.

01:59:19.130 --> 01:59:23.690
We do and have talked for years since I've been around here about having shovel ready

01:59:23.690 --> 01:59:28.609
Sites that we currently don't have. If we don't want to have shovel ready sites, we

01:59:28.609 --> 01:59:33.090
don't want any expansion, then we should just fold up because we're not going to

01:59:33.090 --> 01:59:36.970
get more business here. We don't have ground available for somebody to build

01:59:36.970 --> 01:59:39.850
that we can...

01:59:39.850 --> 01:59:42.520
for somebody to build that we can put the waste into, and if we don't have that ready,

01:59:42.520 --> 01:59:43.520
no one's going to come here.

01:59:43.520 --> 01:59:47.920
They're not going to wait for us to say, hey, we can construct this in a year and a half

01:59:47.920 --> 01:59:50.319
if you come.

01:59:50.319 --> 01:59:52.680
That's not the way shovel-ready sites work.

01:59:52.680 --> 01:59:55.319
And so those are just facts.

01:59:55.319 --> 02:00:00.439
Everybody's entitled to their own opinion, but the facts are that the TIF money is for

02:00:00.439 --> 02:00:05.439
the TIF money is for the Lamb Road District.

02:00:07.560 --> 02:00:09.039
They created this.

02:00:09.039 --> 02:00:12.020
This lift station is to service that area

02:00:12.020 --> 02:00:14.000
that they created the money from.

02:00:14.000 --> 02:00:16.439
And so that's why it's an eligible expense.

02:00:16.439 --> 02:00:20.119
If we were trying to put this in for a project at Mill Race

02:00:20.119 --> 02:00:23.680
or at the airport or something, the funds would be ineligible.

02:00:24.600 --> 02:00:28.079
We just created the station big enough to handle expansion

02:00:28.079 --> 02:00:31.119
in the future, which is just good planning.

02:00:31.119 --> 02:00:32.399
That is all it is.

02:00:34.039 --> 02:00:35.659
If there's no further discussion.

02:00:35.659 --> 02:00:36.500
Yeah.

02:00:36.500 --> 02:00:38.460
You've already spoken twice.

02:00:38.460 --> 02:00:39.659
If there's no further discussion,

02:00:39.659 --> 02:00:40.500
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:00:40.500 --> 02:00:41.739
You don't have to cut me off, so.

02:00:41.739 --> 02:00:43.180
So.

02:00:43.180 --> 02:00:44.020
Sorry.

02:00:44.020 --> 02:00:45.760
You didn't have to cut me off like that.

02:00:45.760 --> 02:00:48.420
I don't agree with what you just did.

02:00:48.420 --> 02:00:50.140
Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll?

02:00:50.140 --> 02:00:51.220
Stacy?

02:00:51.220 --> 02:00:52.640
No.

02:00:52.640 --> 02:00:53.479
Shadle?

02:00:53.479 --> 02:00:54.300
Aye.

02:00:54.300 --> 02:00:55.140
Sanders?

02:00:55.140 --> 02:00:55.960
No.

02:00:55.960 --> 02:00:56.800
Sellers?

02:00:56.800 --> 02:00:57.640
Aye.

02:00:57.640 --> 02:01:29.779
Johnson? Aye. Simmons? No. Parker? Aye. The motion passes five to three. Item number 15 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-88. Could you please read this? Resolution approving acceptance of a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation Aviation Fuel Tax Program. Thank you. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. The city's received the aviation fuel tax grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation

02:01:29.779 --> 02:01:35.060
for the past three years. The grant does not require a match and the grant funds are to be used

02:01:35.619 --> 02:01:40.260
by local governments for airport-related purposes. In the case of the City of Freeport,

02:01:40.260 --> 02:01:44.819
we have utilized the funds as a reimbursement of expanded airport management expenses.

02:01:45.779 --> 02:01:51.300
There's a small table in the memo for your review. The City of Freeport has received a

02:01:51.300 --> 02:02:01.859
Notice of Grant Award for the 2024 Aviation Fuel Tax Grant in the amount of $49,078.77.

02:02:01.859 --> 02:02:06.420
There is not a requirement for the match and once approved by City Council, the City will

02:02:06.420 --> 02:02:11.579
submit invoices and proof of payment of airport management expenses in order to receive the

02:02:11.579 --> 02:02:12.579
grant.

02:02:12.579 --> 02:02:17.300
Upon review and approval of the invoices submitted to IDOT, allocations will be distributed to

02:02:17.300 --> 02:02:25.300
the City of Freeport and staff request approval of the resolution moving forward with the fiscal year 2024 aviation fuel tax grant.

02:02:25.300 --> 02:02:29.300
Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second.

02:02:29.300 --> 02:02:35.300
A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion on the resolution? Alderman Stacy?

02:02:35.300 --> 02:02:40.300
What is the match? You keep saying there's a match. What is the match?

02:02:40.300 --> 02:02:45.300
Zero. You said there is no match? That's correct.

02:02:45.300 --> 02:03:00.300
but when you were speaking and was reading, you said match. Gotcha. It is in the memo, it is written and I said it in the same way I read it from the memo, so there is no match.

02:03:00.300 --> 02:03:11.199
Was that being smart? Any further discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:03:11.199 --> 02:03:31.569
Stacy, I'm sorry did I miss your vote? Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye.

02:03:31.569 --> 02:03:39.770
Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item number 16 is

02:03:39.770 --> 02:03:43.890
the adoption of resolution 2025-90. Could you please read this? Resolution

02:03:43.890 --> 02:03:48.210
approving redevelopment agreement with Kendall and Grace at 712 West South

02:03:48.210 --> 02:03:59.970
Street. Thank you, Director Duckman. So what we have before you currently is a

02:03:59.970 --> 02:04:04.130
redevelopment agreement. The name of the company is Kendall and Grace, but this is

02:04:04.130 --> 02:04:09.970
Witt Plastics, right behind Aldi, to kind of give you a little background of where

02:04:09.970 --> 02:04:15.289
they're actually located. And their proposed project is a almost 5,000

02:04:15.289 --> 02:04:19.689
square foot warehouse facility. There's also going to be some paving, and they're

02:04:19.689 --> 02:04:25.050
We're proposing a project that would total $150,000.

02:04:25.050 --> 02:04:28.569
If we scroll down a little bit, or I can see if I could do it,

02:04:28.569 --> 02:04:34.810
this is an image of the proposed project that they have here.

02:04:34.810 --> 02:04:39.369
So staff has reviewed this proposed development

02:04:39.369 --> 02:04:42.989
and sees that it is eligible for TIF financing.

02:04:42.989 --> 02:04:47.609
And in particular, it's within the Meadows TIF district.

02:04:47.609 --> 02:04:52.369
and what staff is proposing is in line

02:04:52.369 --> 02:04:54.729
with our other redevelopment agreements.

02:04:54.729 --> 02:04:56.930
Upon completion of this project,

02:04:56.930 --> 02:05:01.930
staff would reimburse the developer $5,000

02:05:02.970 --> 02:05:06.270
and upon the lifetime of the TIF district,

02:05:06.270 --> 02:05:09.989
which sunsets in 2037,

02:05:09.989 --> 02:05:14.210
they would be eligible for the TIF increment they produce.

02:05:14.210 --> 02:05:18.289
So once this structure is built, it's assumed,

02:05:18.289 --> 02:05:21.409
and it's reasonable to assume that their taxes are

02:05:21.409 --> 02:05:25.529
going to increase, and they would receive 75%

02:05:25.529 --> 02:05:31.329
of that increase in taxes until 2037.

02:05:31.329 --> 02:05:33.409
There's a cap on how much money they can get,

02:05:33.409 --> 02:05:35.289
and that would be $50,000, and this

02:05:35.289 --> 02:05:39.850
is typical for the lifetime of a redevelopment agreement.

02:05:39.850 --> 02:05:42.369
The reason you have these caps is

02:05:42.369 --> 02:05:45.930
Some developments will drastically increase the taxes

02:05:45.930 --> 02:05:50.930
on a parcel, and a city does not want a developer

02:05:51.109 --> 02:05:56.109
to receive a windfall of an economic development incentive.

02:05:56.369 --> 02:05:59.789
So it's capped to say that they will never,

02:06:00.689 --> 02:06:02.850
if the tax is increased astronomically

02:06:02.850 --> 02:06:04.810
from this development, they would be capped

02:06:04.810 --> 02:06:08.510
for a lifetime of $50,000.

02:06:08.510 --> 02:06:11.550
So this is a great opportunity.

02:06:12.369 --> 02:06:17.170
For our community, a long-time developer and staff is recommending approval of the resolution.

02:06:17.729 --> 02:06:20.369
Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second.

02:06:21.729 --> 02:06:28.850
Moving motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker. Discussion on the resolution?

02:06:29.810 --> 02:06:36.210
Yeah. Alderman Johnson? I have about three questions here. Yeah. Where exactly on the

02:06:36.210 --> 02:06:39.609
and the property there, as you're showing it there,

02:06:39.609 --> 02:06:42.189
is that building going to be placed?

02:06:42.189 --> 02:06:43.029
Back in-

02:06:43.029 --> 02:06:43.930
Do you have more than one question you wanna-

02:06:43.930 --> 02:06:44.770
Yeah, I have three.

02:06:44.770 --> 02:06:45.729
Okay. Okay, go ahead.

02:06:45.729 --> 02:06:49.569
And how do they get in and out of that building

02:06:49.569 --> 02:06:51.489
and will it be the driveway that's used

02:06:51.489 --> 02:06:52.750
to get in and out of all these

02:06:52.750 --> 02:06:56.529
or how will they enter and exit from that building?

02:06:56.529 --> 02:07:00.210
And the third one is what is the benefit to this city-

02:07:00.210 --> 02:07:01.050
Sure.

02:07:01.050 --> 02:07:02.050
By them having this building?

02:07:02.050 --> 02:07:07.890
several okay I'll try to answer them in sequence the location is going to be

02:07:08.689 --> 02:07:14.369
this is Aldi down down here the guardrail you can see the guardrail there that's your Aldi and then

02:07:14.369 --> 02:07:20.850
there's the drive behind Aldi that's going to take you up here and they own the so you come in you

02:07:20.850 --> 02:07:25.649
turn right and then this would be your view right here and then this parcel here is where they're

02:07:25.649 --> 02:07:26.649
and others.

02:07:26.649 --> 02:07:31.569
They're going to be putting this facility, this 5,000 square foot storage facility.

02:07:31.569 --> 02:07:35.489
A couple different, and you're going to say, well, how are they going to get there?

02:07:35.489 --> 02:07:40.729
Well, they've agreed to pave this area in here, so they won't be dragging gravel in

02:07:40.729 --> 02:07:42.569
and out of our city streets.

02:07:42.569 --> 02:07:45.130
So they've already agreed to pave this area.

02:07:45.130 --> 02:07:48.149
So that's how they're going to be accessing it, and then obviously they would be coming

02:07:48.149 --> 02:07:53.529
back out onto this road and then heading towards South Street.

02:07:53.529 --> 02:08:00.289
to the City. Several economic development benefits here. I've talked with the owners,

02:08:00.289 --> 02:08:04.649
they're lovely, delightful people. They're building and expanding and they're running

02:08:04.649 --> 02:08:11.449
out of room. One of the biggest complaints as all their people, as a community development

02:08:11.449 --> 02:08:16.930
director you're going to receive is businesses leave and then they say, well, what did you

02:08:16.930 --> 02:08:22.770
do? Well, if you were presented a redevelopment agreement and you said, absolutely not, the

02:08:22.770 --> 02:08:24.809
The answer is you did nothing.

02:08:24.809 --> 02:08:30.510
This business has come to the city and said we need help, we need to expand our business.

02:08:30.510 --> 02:08:34.930
They potentially, and if the city is not working with them, if they go somewhere else, somewhere

02:08:34.930 --> 02:08:39.930
else might say we got a better deal than the city, leave this for the city to figure out

02:08:39.930 --> 02:08:43.649
what to do with, come to our community, we've got a better deal.

02:08:43.649 --> 02:08:49.350
So this is the city working to keep its business in the city of Freeport, that's one.

02:08:49.350 --> 02:09:18.069
Or two, the business owners have told me that to, they're also looking to add a few employees to also help this, they're getting busy, they're just, they need more room, they need more space, it's going to also help potentially add jobs, not just directly for the plastic, with plastics, but also, you know, the company that's going to end up building this is going, you're going to have construction jobs back into the economy as well.

02:09:18.069 --> 02:09:22.069
So that's something to keep in mind any time a redevelopment agreement comes up

02:09:22.069 --> 02:09:27.069
when your constituents say to you, why are businesses leaving? What are you doing?

02:09:27.069 --> 02:09:33.069
And the answer is, well, you have a choice to vote to help people expand and keep their business in the community.

02:09:33.069 --> 02:09:36.069
So that's my answer to that question.

02:09:36.920 --> 02:09:38.300
Oldham and Sellers.

02:09:38.300 --> 02:09:39.140
I would just like to know,

02:09:39.140 --> 02:09:40.939
I know that you said they're gonna be coming

02:09:40.939 --> 02:09:42.479
in and out of South,

02:09:42.479 --> 02:09:46.439
already right there by Aldi's is a lot of congestion,

02:09:46.439 --> 02:09:47.520
just getting in and out,

02:09:47.520 --> 02:09:50.340
how are they gonna make that easier?

02:09:50.340 --> 02:09:53.039
Because I've seen even some people driving,

02:09:53.039 --> 02:09:54.680
trying to come out of Aldi's

02:09:54.680 --> 02:09:56.840
because it's such a tight turn,

02:09:56.840 --> 02:09:59.800
they have went over the cliff a couple of times.

02:09:59.800 --> 02:10:02.479
So how can we make that wide enough

02:10:02.479 --> 02:10:12.079
where it won't be so much congestion there with this business coming in and out of there

02:10:12.079 --> 02:10:13.079
also.

02:10:13.079 --> 02:10:15.039
Well, we can't change the congestion.

02:10:15.039 --> 02:10:18.000
We know that Aldi is a very successful business.

02:10:18.000 --> 02:10:20.020
They're going to have many people coming in and out.

02:10:20.020 --> 02:10:24.479
So this development is not going to, you know, this is not going to be able to change the

02:10:24.479 --> 02:10:25.479
traffic.

02:10:25.479 --> 02:10:29.199
The only thing that it can do is add some paving to the area and it could help them

02:10:29.199 --> 02:10:31.199
Fowler, and

02:10:32.640 --> 02:10:34.640
the city of Aldi.

02:10:35.960 --> 02:10:37.960
The city of Aldi is the city that has the

02:10:39.060 --> 02:10:41.060
capacity to add more storage for their facility.

02:10:42.159 --> 02:10:44.159
They've stated that they want to stay here.

02:10:45.260 --> 02:10:47.260
They want to stay in Freeport. They want to expand at their

02:10:48.359 --> 02:10:50.359
location, and they're looking for the city to partner with

02:10:51.460 --> 02:10:53.460
them, but I'm not going to sit here and tell you that this is

02:10:54.560 --> 02:10:56.560
going to aid in the, you know, the traffic issues we have at

02:10:56.560 --> 02:11:06.000
First of all, I don't like the fact that when you are addressing counsel that someone is

02:11:06.000 --> 02:11:13.239
expressing their sentiments about how we are proceeding on any measures and talking about

02:11:13.239 --> 02:11:20.399
on anything because I can hear it by the conversation that you had with her.

02:11:20.399 --> 02:11:21.399
She had a complaint.

02:11:21.399 --> 02:11:26.239
It was subtle, but it was a complaint on top of it.

02:11:26.239 --> 02:11:29.039
Now, working with the city is one thing.

02:11:29.039 --> 02:11:32.039
We can talk about the possibilities

02:11:36.239 --> 02:11:39.640
and whether or not the city wants to look into these matters,

02:11:39.640 --> 02:11:41.840
but we don't even know what type of business.

02:11:41.840 --> 02:11:46.000
We don't even know what the purpose of it is all about.

02:11:46.000 --> 02:11:48.060
We don't have no objection for anyone

02:11:48.060 --> 02:11:49.439
trying to bring in a business,

02:11:49.439 --> 02:11:53.020
but to make it a business that sounds like

02:11:53.020 --> 02:11:58.020
like it's putting us under pressure to make something happen

02:11:58.539 --> 02:12:01.539
because that's your sentiment that I feel

02:12:01.539 --> 02:12:05.539
that you're presenting to us right now at this time.

02:12:05.539 --> 02:12:08.979
Is there conversation with you

02:12:08.979 --> 02:12:11.420
and you're expressing it here at the council?

02:12:11.420 --> 02:12:14.859
And I reject all of that,

02:12:14.859 --> 02:12:17.340
but I like to just be able to talk to a person

02:12:17.340 --> 02:12:21.300
so we can come to a conclusion or resolution

02:12:21.300 --> 02:12:24.539
where we can move further down the road,

02:12:24.539 --> 02:12:26.140
but I don't like the expression

02:12:26.140 --> 02:12:28.020
that you're presenting to council

02:12:28.020 --> 02:12:30.619
when these folks are, when anyone is talking to you

02:12:30.619 --> 02:12:34.579
about what we should be doing, that kind of thing.

02:12:34.579 --> 02:12:37.739
And what, no, no, no, no, I'm still talking.

02:12:37.739 --> 02:12:42.380
And the fact that we are not listening

02:12:42.380 --> 02:12:44.239
or we have not acted on something

02:12:44.239 --> 02:12:46.579
that we don't have privy to yet.

02:12:46.579 --> 02:12:49.479
And my point is, is that a private property?

02:12:49.479 --> 02:12:53.199
I wanted to ask that question, is that private property,

02:12:53.199 --> 02:12:57.279
why is the city looking into complying

02:12:57.279 --> 02:13:01.560
with someone that has that type of view?

02:13:01.560 --> 02:13:03.640
And I just wanted to make sure

02:13:03.640 --> 02:13:08.560
that I see it very clearly in my own head

02:13:08.560 --> 02:13:12.399
that this is what this particular business owner

02:13:12.399 --> 02:13:16.039
wants to be able to do without any agitation,

02:13:16.039 --> 02:13:18.560
without any over-expressing

02:13:18.560 --> 02:13:20.119
or any of those kinds of things

02:13:20.119 --> 02:13:25.119
because the council has an antenna.

02:13:25.800 --> 02:13:29.260
And when that kind of rhetoric start filtering in

02:13:29.260 --> 02:13:32.119
through the council, our antennas goes up.

02:13:32.119 --> 02:13:36.739
And so we're saying that if any business

02:13:36.739 --> 02:13:39.359
is consulting with you in that manner,

02:13:39.359 --> 02:13:42.199
then you should not present it here to council.

02:13:42.199 --> 02:13:43.039
That's all I'm saying.

02:13:43.039 --> 02:13:45.579
I'm not against it, it's just the fact

02:13:45.579 --> 02:13:48.279
that I just didn't like the way that it was presented.

02:13:49.779 --> 02:13:50.880
Any other discussion?

02:13:52.659 --> 02:13:53.739
Alderman Stacey.

02:13:54.859 --> 02:13:56.939
So, you know,

02:13:58.420 --> 02:14:02.840
Culver's the biggest fast food place here in Freeport.

02:14:03.899 --> 02:14:08.899
They took advantage of this money through a tip.

02:14:08.899 --> 02:14:38.399
through a TIF. Now here we come again with a different TIF. So is anybody that wants to advance their establishment going to be able to use TIF money and get a yearly salary or yearly whatever to do what they want to do for their business with our tax dollars?

02:14:38.399 --> 02:14:44.180
the answer is yes please wait clarify this is not about tax dollars this is

02:14:44.180 --> 02:14:49.859
this is tax yes this is the tip this is tax increment financing I can go back

02:14:49.859 --> 02:14:55.020
and answer it anybody looking if you have a business within the geographic area of

02:14:55.020 --> 02:15:02.439
a TIF district you are eligible for TIF financing when you're expanding your

02:15:02.439 --> 02:15:05.560
business and you're saying every year you're going to get dollars that's what

02:15:05.560 --> 02:15:15.100
Lets me make a shot of you. Get-out-de-work and bloodsweep. Wanted a job and that's what you're referencing.

02:15:15.560 --> 02:15:27.319
Well when you go above, if you create and you build and expand your business, you're property taxes are going to increase, correct?

02:15:27.319 --> 02:15:28.939
So you're going to give it right back anyway.

02:15:28.939 --> 02:15:33.840
That's correct. That's why we're having this redevelopment agreement is to provide incentives for businesses to expand.

02:15:33.840 --> 02:15:51.199
and I have a business downtown and I wanted to advance my business and add to it and make

02:15:51.199 --> 02:16:00.000
it bigger and fix the inside and this and that I would have access to downtown TIF money.

02:16:00.000 --> 02:16:03.979
you would want to come in and see visit the city staff and make sure what you're doing

02:16:03.979 --> 02:16:13.050
is an eligible, um, eligible expenses, but potentially yes. So again, it has to do with

02:16:13.050 --> 02:16:19.109
your property tax assessment. If you're saying I would like to paint the inside of my building,

02:16:19.109 --> 02:16:25.130
my answer to you would be you're not doing an improvement that's going to increase the

02:16:25.130 --> 02:16:27.130
and

02:16:28.430 --> 02:16:30.430
John.

02:16:31.909 --> 02:16:34.110
So you have to essentially improve your business so that

02:16:34.110 --> 02:16:37.010
your taxes, your property taxes are going to increase because

02:16:37.010 --> 02:16:40.969
you're paid on the increment of those taxes going up.

02:16:40.969 --> 02:16:46.469
Okay. So this business is investing $150,000 to build,

02:16:46.469 --> 02:16:50.469
expand their business. Their taxes are going to go up and

02:16:50.469 --> 02:16:52.469
they're going to be eligible for that repayment.

02:16:52.469 --> 02:16:54.590
Powers.

02:16:54.590 --> 02:17:03.829
Just to understand, the tax money comes from the taxing body of the group.

02:17:03.829 --> 02:17:08.649
Like the Lamb Road, it comes from the money of all the industries out there.

02:17:08.649 --> 02:17:14.629
Like downtown, it comes from the taxing of the stores and stuff downtown.

02:17:14.629 --> 02:17:19.469
And usually, downtown, you would only be able to do like a facade, like the outside.

02:17:19.469 --> 02:17:20.469
Sure.

02:17:20.469 --> 02:17:21.469
Yes.

02:17:21.469 --> 02:17:23.469
and

02:17:25.469 --> 02:17:27.469
John.

02:17:29.530 --> 02:17:31.530
It's just the outside. So you can't get the taxing dollars

02:17:33.049 --> 02:17:36.049
and it doesn't come from the citizens. It comes from the

02:17:36.049 --> 02:17:38.049
taxing of the people that are in that TIF district.

02:17:39.649 --> 02:17:42.649
≫ So you have a geographic area. This is the Meadows TIF

02:17:42.649 --> 02:17:48.129
district. There's a map. And essentially when this would have

02:18:18.129 --> 02:18:19.129
Huffines.

02:18:19.129 --> 02:18:20.129
We're going to talk about the

02:18:20.129 --> 02:18:21.129
guidelines on how the money can be

02:18:21.129 --> 02:18:22.129
spent.

02:18:22.129 --> 02:18:23.129
It could be spent for business

02:18:23.129 --> 02:18:24.129
expansion.

02:18:24.129 --> 02:18:25.129
It could be spent for business

02:18:25.129 --> 02:18:28.729
retention, professional services,

02:18:28.729 --> 02:18:29.729
things of that nature.

02:18:29.729 --> 02:18:34.450
Alderman Shadle?

02:18:34.450 --> 02:18:36.450
The essence of this is they're

02:18:36.450 --> 02:18:39.569
getting back 75 percent of an

02:18:39.569 --> 02:18:43.209
increase in their taxes.

02:18:43.209 --> 02:18:44.649
So if this hypothetically, this

02:18:44.649 --> 02:18:47.270
building generates a tax bill of

02:18:47.270 --> 02:18:48.270
Huffines.

02:18:48.270 --> 02:19:08.190
They're going to get a return from their property taxes of $1,500 out of the hypothetical $2,000.

02:19:08.190 --> 02:19:11.590
We're not laying out money to them.

02:19:11.590 --> 02:19:18.950
We're just diverting taxes back so that they have an incentive to make this investment.

02:19:18.950 --> 02:19:26.270
An investment that's always going to be there when the 75% sun sets out, we get all that

02:19:26.270 --> 02:19:27.270
tax money then.

02:19:27.270 --> 02:19:28.270
And it's on the increase.

02:19:28.270 --> 02:19:31.469
Where I shouldn't say we, the taxing bodies, get it.

02:19:31.469 --> 02:19:32.469
It's on the increase.

02:19:32.469 --> 02:19:33.469
Alderman Statham.

02:19:33.469 --> 02:19:35.469
Aldermen,

02:19:35.469 --> 02:19:41.360
Increase. Alderman Stacy. So are you telling me that this business paid into the Meadows TIF? Yes.

02:19:43.360 --> 02:19:50.690
Their property taxes are paying into the Meadows TIF, yes. There's no further discussion.

02:19:51.409 --> 02:20:15.010
Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? I'm sorry, was that abstain? Shadle? Aye. Sanders?

02:20:15.010 --> 02:20:26.209
Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted

02:20:26.209 --> 02:20:32.930
seven to zero with one abstentia. Item number 17 is adoption of resolution 2025-91. Could you please

02:20:32.930 --> 02:20:39.889
read this? Resolution approving the purchase of poly tetrafluoroethylene or PTFE membrane discs

02:20:39.889 --> 02:20:45.969
for wastewater facility aeration basins from Dryden Equipment. Thank you. Manager

02:20:45.969 --> 02:20:52.049
Boyer. Thank your honor. I don't know how familiar everybody is with wastewater

02:20:52.049 --> 02:20:56.809
treatment, but this is one step in the wastewater treatment process. It's called

02:20:56.809 --> 02:21:04.610
aeration. There are mechanicals in the bottom of the aeration tank that send

02:21:04.610 --> 02:21:09.649
bubbles of air through the effluent as it goes to the treatment process. Every

02:21:09.649 --> 02:21:14.930
7 to 10 years these need to be replaced and we are at that time where we need to

02:21:14.930 --> 02:21:19.930
replace them. They are specific to the equipment that's in the aeration basin

02:21:19.930 --> 02:21:33.290
and the city's received an estimate from SSI aeration for $20,048

02:21:33.290 --> 02:21:38.170
I'm sorry from Dryden Equipment. The project was budgeted in the wastewater

02:21:38.170 --> 02:21:41.250
for budget for 2025 and staff recommends moving forward

02:21:41.250 --> 02:21:44.850
with the membrane purchase.

02:21:44.850 --> 02:21:46.489
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:21:46.489 --> 02:21:47.329
So moved.

02:21:49.090 --> 02:21:51.250
We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle,

02:21:51.250 --> 02:21:52.770
seconded by Alderman Johnson.

02:21:52.770 --> 02:21:55.010
Discussion on the resolution.

02:21:55.010 --> 02:21:55.850
Deren.

02:21:55.850 --> 02:21:58.489
I just wanted to comment that we had $60,000

02:21:58.489 --> 02:22:02.329
in the budget for this year and so this is,

02:22:02.329 --> 02:22:06.809
we got a good price on doing the total amount that we needed.

02:22:06.809 --> 02:22:13.049
Holderman Sanders. Yeah I know this is a very necessary it is something that we

02:22:13.049 --> 02:22:22.370
should let you know have no problem with and if it's an annual thing or or is it

02:22:22.370 --> 02:22:27.049
not I think it is an annual thing that we go through it's not an annual thing

02:22:27.049 --> 02:22:32.049
what is that every five years or something seven to ten years okay but I

02:22:32.049 --> 02:22:36.569
know it's necessary I don't know what the cost is do we have a cost factor for

02:22:36.569 --> 02:22:37.569
and Stacey.

02:22:37.569 --> 02:22:38.569
Do you have a budget for all of that?

02:22:38.569 --> 02:22:39.569
Do we have a?

02:22:39.569 --> 02:22:40.569
Yes.

02:22:40.569 --> 02:22:41.569
$20,000.

02:22:41.569 --> 02:22:42.569
Okay.

02:22:42.569 --> 02:22:43.569
Okay.

02:22:43.569 --> 02:22:48.049
Well, anyway, I know it's necessary, so I just wanted to see where we were at with that.

02:22:48.049 --> 02:22:49.049
Okay.

02:22:49.049 --> 02:22:50.049
Hold on.

02:22:50.049 --> 02:22:51.049
Stacy?

02:22:51.049 --> 02:22:59.170
So if it's going to cost $20,000, but Darren, you said we have 16.

02:22:59.170 --> 02:23:00.170
60.

02:23:00.170 --> 02:23:01.170
Six zero.

02:23:01.170 --> 02:23:02.170
Okay.

02:23:02.170 --> 02:23:05.129
That's what was budgeted for this year.

02:23:05.129 --> 02:23:07.569
And this is just materials only.

02:23:07.569 --> 02:23:10.489
Our crews actually do the replacement themselves.

02:23:10.489 --> 02:23:14.690
But all of it to complete this project has been budgeted for.

02:23:14.690 --> 02:23:17.000
Yes ma'am.

02:23:17.000 --> 02:23:20.360
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:23:20.360 --> 02:23:21.360
Stacy?

02:23:21.360 --> 02:23:22.360
Aye.

02:23:22.360 --> 02:23:23.360
Shadle?

02:23:23.360 --> 02:23:24.360
Aye.

02:23:24.360 --> 02:23:25.360
Sanders?

02:23:25.360 --> 02:23:26.360
Aye.

02:23:26.360 --> 02:23:27.360
Sellers is currently absent.

02:23:27.360 --> 02:23:28.360
Klemm?

02:23:28.360 --> 02:23:29.360
Aye.

02:23:29.360 --> 02:23:30.360
Johnson?

02:23:30.360 --> 02:23:31.360
Aye.

02:23:31.360 --> 02:23:32.360
Simmons?

02:23:32.360 --> 02:23:33.360
Aye.

02:23:33.360 --> 02:23:34.360
And Parker?

02:23:34.360 --> 02:23:35.360
Aye.

02:23:35.360 --> 02:23:36.360
The resolution is adopted 7-0.

02:23:36.360 --> 02:23:37.360
Huffines.

02:23:37.360 --> 02:23:39.840
Item number 18 is the adoption of resolution 2025-92.

02:23:39.840 --> 02:23:41.639
Could you please read this?

02:23:41.639 --> 02:23:46.879
Resolution authorizing payment of an invoice from T&T Iron and Metal for Electronic Recycling

02:23:46.879 --> 02:23:47.879
Services.

02:23:47.879 --> 02:23:48.879
Director Bridge.

02:23:48.879 --> 02:23:49.879
Thank you, Your Honor.

02:23:49.879 --> 02:23:50.879
I thought you were...

02:23:50.879 --> 02:23:51.879
Oh, I'm sorry.

02:23:51.879 --> 02:23:52.879
Director Bridge.

02:23:52.879 --> 02:23:53.879
Okay.

02:23:53.879 --> 02:23:54.879
That's okay.

02:23:54.879 --> 02:23:55.879
That's okay.

02:23:55.879 --> 02:23:56.879
Sorry about that.

02:23:56.879 --> 02:23:59.280
So that we don't have to ask these questions.

02:23:59.280 --> 02:24:00.280
My name is Bryan.

02:24:00.280 --> 02:24:02.040
I'm the Communications Director.

02:24:02.040 --> 02:24:07.040
I was one of the three to four people here in City Hall

02:24:07.760 --> 02:24:10.120
that was in charge of getting

02:24:10.120 --> 02:24:12.139
an electronic recycling event together.

02:24:12.139 --> 02:24:15.280
Not only that, but I'm also tasked with

02:24:16.420 --> 02:24:18.840
kind of getting out to the public,

02:24:18.840 --> 02:24:21.040
not only stuff for electronic recycling,

02:24:21.040 --> 02:24:22.559
but also Refresh Freeport,

02:24:22.559 --> 02:24:27.559
which is our monthly dumping event that we do.

02:24:28.639 --> 02:24:30.120
The City of Freeport conducted

02:24:30.120 --> 02:24:37.120
Giles Freeport Disposal recommended T&T Iron and Metal to be the main collector of electronic materials. At the event, they collected 1,096 tons of iron and metal to be disposed of.

02:25:00.120 --> 02:25:07.120
and the city received positive feedback from residents and surrounding communities. The full amount of the invoice has been budgeted for and will be paid from the health and environment fund, which the cost of this specific invoice is just over $27,000 and the budget is in the $300,000 range.

02:25:30.120 --> 02:25:32.120
Thank you. Is there a motion to adopt?

02:25:32.120 --> 02:25:33.120
So moved.

02:25:33.120 --> 02:25:34.120
Second.

02:25:34.120 --> 02:25:43.120
We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm. Discussion on the resolution? Alderman Sanders.

02:25:43.120 --> 02:25:51.120
Where's the dumping ground is that with this material?

02:25:51.120 --> 02:25:57.120
So the the event was held at the fairgrounds on July 19th and the

02:25:57.120 --> 02:26:04.760
dumping grounds I I do not know the specific area the company TNT Iron and

02:26:04.760 --> 02:26:11.520
Metals took the stuff away from Freeport. So is this is are they currently still

02:26:11.520 --> 02:26:16.739
established it's just one one-time event or how does that work? That's a good

02:26:16.739 --> 02:26:22.219
question we are currently working towards a more regular event of this sort yeah

02:26:22.219 --> 02:26:27.780
and and I know I I know that there should have been a notification that went out to

02:26:27.780 --> 02:26:32.219
the general public about this we broadcast this and everything yeah

02:26:32.219 --> 02:26:40.340
plenty of people showed up did they okay and I like to see who's doing the

02:26:40.340 --> 02:26:45.340
Collecting of anything, is there residuals that comes from this?

02:26:52.219 --> 02:26:53.219
You're talking about money?

02:26:53.219 --> 02:26:55.979
Yeah, because there's a lot of gold.

02:26:55.979 --> 02:27:00.860
There's a lot of gold and a lot of other material

02:27:00.860 --> 02:27:03.459
that can be broken down and be converted

02:27:03.459 --> 02:27:06.540
into monetary value.

02:27:06.540 --> 02:27:08.500
The city of Freeport is not.

02:27:08.500 --> 02:27:12.700
We're not just giving the factory away, are we?

02:27:12.700 --> 02:27:15.620
This is scrap metal that they're giving away.

02:27:15.620 --> 02:27:17.100
Yeah, that's what I thought.

02:27:17.100 --> 02:27:20.739
But we're not looking at the real intricate parts

02:27:20.739 --> 02:27:25.739
of that electronic equipment because there's value in there

02:27:26.260 --> 02:27:30.739
where the city could be recouping from

02:27:30.739 --> 02:27:33.799
or gaining something from it.

02:27:33.799 --> 02:27:35.540
I don't care if it went to a charity

02:27:35.540 --> 02:28:01.860
We're not doing a complete assessment of how this program should be brought up because we're saying we want to give you all our electronics that got gold and aluminum, whatever, copper, whatever the case may be. We're going to give all that to you. We're just going to just let you dispose of it. And we don't have any

02:28:01.860 --> 02:28:11.579
and my friend, Bill. We don't have any residuals from all of that because it belongs to the

02:28:11.579 --> 02:28:18.420
citizens of Freeport. I don't care who picks it up, who gets it or whatever the case is.

02:28:18.420 --> 02:28:24.540
That is a fortune that is being sent out of here. That's all I'm just saying. Are we in

02:28:24.540 --> 02:28:26.799
a position to recoup anything?

02:28:26.799 --> 02:28:33.040
So the residents of Freeport took their own stuff to the event.

02:28:33.040 --> 02:28:38.440
In all respect, that's the way the event was organized, and so we have full confidence

02:28:38.440 --> 02:28:44.680
that the residents of Freeport understand what they're giving up.

02:28:44.680 --> 02:28:48.399
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:28:48.399 --> 02:28:49.399
Stacy?

02:28:49.399 --> 02:28:50.399
Shadle?

02:28:50.399 --> 02:28:51.399
Sanders?

02:28:51.399 --> 02:28:52.399
Sellers?

02:28:52.399 --> 02:28:53.399
Klemm?

02:28:53.399 --> 02:28:54.399
Johnson?

02:28:54.399 --> 02:28:55.399
Simmons?

02:28:55.399 --> 02:29:02.719
Simmons, and Parker. And if I may before I move on tire recycling event this

02:29:02.719 --> 02:29:10.360
Saturday same deal tires if you need more information website Facebook email thank

02:29:10.360 --> 02:29:18.000
you thank you oh at the fairgrounds yes and do you have a time eight o'clock thank

02:29:18.000 --> 02:29:23.600
you item number 19 is adoption of resolution 2025 93 could you please read

02:29:23.600 --> 02:29:30.600
Resolution Approving Transportation Services Agreement with Pretzel City Transit to Sell Punch Cards at the Library

02:29:30.600 --> 02:29:31.959
Thank you, Director Huffine.

02:29:31.959 --> 02:29:32.959
Thank you.

02:29:32.959 --> 02:29:37.639
The library is always seeking collaborations and partners to help improve our services

02:29:37.639 --> 02:29:39.879
and resources for our community.

02:29:39.879 --> 02:29:42.920
Pretzel City Transit is heavily used by library users.

02:29:42.920 --> 02:29:48.840
We are seeking to make access to ride vouchers and punch cards more accessible by becoming

02:29:48.840 --> 02:29:54.559
a location for people to purchase ride vouchers and punch cards for Pretzel City Transit.

02:29:54.559 --> 02:29:58.719
Although the Freeport Public Library is a department of the City of Freeport, we are

02:29:58.719 --> 02:30:00.819
We are a separate taxing district.

02:30:00.819 --> 02:30:03.319
It is important to demonstrate the library's commitment

02:30:03.319 --> 02:30:06.079
to selling these vouchers to IDOT.

02:30:06.079 --> 02:30:09.719
So we are entering into a formal agreement.

02:30:09.719 --> 02:30:12.659
The city of Freeport's responsibilities

02:30:12.659 --> 02:30:15.559
under this agreement are to provide reliable

02:30:15.559 --> 02:30:18.959
on-time transportation to the Freeport Public Library users

02:30:18.959 --> 02:30:21.600
in a timely manner and to supply the Freeport Public Library

02:30:21.600 --> 02:30:25.340
with vouchers and punch cards for sale at the library.

02:30:25.340 --> 02:30:28.100
The Freeport Public Library's responsibilities

02:30:28.100 --> 02:30:31.540
under this agreement are to maintain an inventory

02:30:31.540 --> 02:30:35.100
of vouchers and punch cards to notate the vouchers

02:30:35.100 --> 02:30:37.899
to indicate they were purchased at the library

02:30:37.899 --> 02:30:40.260
to maintain accurate inventory on hand

02:30:40.260 --> 02:30:42.219
and sold vouchers and punch cards

02:30:42.219 --> 02:30:46.819
and provide inventory reports to the city upon request.

02:30:46.819 --> 02:30:49.700
The library will compensate the city monthly

02:30:49.700 --> 02:30:52.420
for all vouchers and punch cards sold.

02:30:52.420 --> 02:30:56.340
There is no impact on the city or library finances.

02:30:56.340 --> 02:30:59.040
The city staff recommend approving the agreement

02:30:59.040 --> 02:31:00.959
with the Freeport Public Library

02:31:00.959 --> 02:31:04.120
and the strategic plan that supports strong public

02:31:04.120 --> 02:31:05.920
and private partnerships.

02:31:05.920 --> 02:31:06.739
Thank you.

02:31:06.739 --> 02:31:07.579
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:31:07.579 --> 02:31:08.420
So moved.

02:31:08.420 --> 02:31:09.239
Second.

02:31:09.239 --> 02:31:11.159
Motion made by Alderman Shadle,

02:31:11.159 --> 02:31:12.659
seconded by Alderman Sellers.

02:31:12.659 --> 02:31:14.180
Discussion on the resolution.

02:31:15.520 --> 02:31:17.319
Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:31:17.319 --> 02:31:18.159
Stacy?

02:31:18.159 --> 02:31:19.440
Aye.

02:31:19.440 --> 02:31:20.280
Shadle?

02:31:20.280 --> 02:31:21.120
Aye.

02:31:21.120 --> 02:31:21.940
Sanders?

02:31:21.940 --> 02:31:22.780
Aye.

02:31:22.780 --> 02:31:23.600
Sellers?

02:31:23.600 --> 02:31:24.440
Aye.

02:31:24.440 --> 02:31:25.280
Klemm?

02:31:25.280 --> 02:31:26.120
Aye.

02:31:26.120 --> 02:31:27.120
Parker?

02:31:27.120 --> 02:31:28.120
Aye.

02:31:28.120 --> 02:31:30.440
That resolution is adopted 8 to 0.

02:31:30.440 --> 02:31:34.000
Item number 20 is adoption of resolution 2025-94.

02:31:34.000 --> 02:31:35.959
Could you please read this?

02:31:35.959 --> 02:31:41.379
Resolution approving purchase of two refurbished power load systems from Rowland Energy refurbished

02:31:41.379 --> 02:31:45.559
equipment and clock emergency vehicles for the fire department.

02:31:45.559 --> 02:31:46.559
Chief Miller?

02:31:46.559 --> 02:31:47.840
Thank you, Your Honor.

02:31:47.840 --> 02:31:51.979
Before you this evening is the request to approve the purchase of power load systems

02:31:51.979 --> 02:31:54.879
for ambulances 3 and 4.

02:31:54.879 --> 02:32:00.639
are in need of power load systems which securely fastens the stretcher into the back of the

02:32:00.639 --> 02:32:07.200
ambulance. When the vehicles were purchased in 2015 and 2016, the floors of the vehicles

02:32:07.200 --> 02:32:11.760
were built to accept this system, but the cost of the system was too excessive. It was

02:32:11.760 --> 02:32:17.719
not added when the vehicles were ordered. So the power load system consists of an arm

02:32:17.719 --> 02:32:22.639
that extends out of the back of the ambulance and loads the stretcher into the ambulance

02:32:22.639 --> 02:32:23.639
Huffines.

02:32:23.639 --> 02:32:24.639
Thank you.

02:32:24.639 --> 02:32:25.639
Thank you.

02:32:25.639 --> 02:32:26.639
Thank you.

02:32:26.639 --> 02:32:27.639
Thank you.

02:32:27.639 --> 02:32:33.479
We want the stretcher to the floor of the ambulance ensuring crash and roll over protection

02:32:33.479 --> 02:32:37.799
for a patient that may be on the back of that stretcher.

02:32:37.799 --> 02:32:40.559
Our two newer ambulances are equipped with this feature.

02:32:40.559 --> 02:32:47.399
So that being said, it's important that the ambulances have the same similar equipment

02:32:47.399 --> 02:32:51.719
to avoid any confusion or operational errors during emergencies.

02:32:51.719 --> 02:32:57.319
We want each vehicle to be outfitted exactly the same, all the equipment is located in

02:32:57.319 --> 02:33:01.360
and the same cabinets in the back of the ambulance.

02:33:01.360 --> 02:33:04.520
So the initial plan or budget provided funds

02:33:04.520 --> 02:33:07.680
to purchase one new power load system.

02:33:07.680 --> 02:33:09.360
The key is new.

02:33:09.360 --> 02:33:13.200
One new power load system for this year for ambulance three

02:33:13.200 --> 02:33:15.840
and then we'd rebudget another one

02:33:15.840 --> 02:33:18.319
for ambulance four next year.

02:33:18.319 --> 02:33:21.680
So my guys did some research on this

02:33:21.680 --> 02:33:25.600
and as we were obtaining pricing,

02:33:25.600 --> 02:33:29.920
we discovered that we could purchase two refurbished units

02:33:29.920 --> 02:33:33.459
for less than the cost of one brand new unit.

02:33:33.459 --> 02:33:37.040
So the refurbished ones also come with a one year warranty.

02:33:37.040 --> 02:33:38.760
So do the new ones.

02:33:38.760 --> 02:33:41.000
So it makes perfect sense to save money

02:33:41.000 --> 02:33:44.280
by some refurbished ones that are operate

02:33:44.280 --> 02:33:46.420
just as well as the newer ones do.

02:33:47.860 --> 02:33:50.920
So the financial component of this is

02:33:50.920 --> 02:33:53.559
the fire capital improvement fund will cover the costs

02:33:53.559 --> 02:33:56.799
for the power load system and the installation.

02:33:56.799 --> 02:34:00.879
The total cost for two refurbished power load systems

02:34:00.879 --> 02:34:05.879
installed $34,217.96.

02:34:06.479 --> 02:34:10.700
So comparatively, the cost for one new power load system

02:34:10.700 --> 02:34:14.020
is $35,857.

02:34:14.020 --> 02:34:16.819
So we're already about $1,600 less expensive

02:34:16.819 --> 02:34:18.780
for twice the equipment.

02:34:18.780 --> 02:34:21.120
So no dollars from the general fund

02:34:21.120 --> 02:34:23.540
will be used for this purchase.

02:34:23.540 --> 02:34:25.579
So the fire department is requesting approval

02:34:25.579 --> 02:34:29.100
of the resolution to purchase two refurbished

02:34:29.100 --> 02:34:32.340
power load systems for the back of Ambulance 3 and 4.

02:34:33.739 --> 02:34:34.819
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:34:34.819 --> 02:34:35.659
So moved.

02:34:37.540 --> 02:34:38.659
Oh, so moved.

02:34:40.100 --> 02:34:41.379
Parker.

02:34:41.379 --> 02:34:43.219
A motion made by Alderman Parker,

02:34:43.219 --> 02:34:45.200
seconded by Alderman Sellers.

02:34:46.219 --> 02:34:49.139
Discussion on the resolution.

02:34:49.139 --> 02:34:49.979
Alderman Parker.

02:34:49.979 --> 02:34:52.819
This is almost mandatory as a major safety issue

02:34:52.819 --> 02:34:59.180
for our firemen, and at 34,000, if one of our officers' break is back trying to do

02:34:59.180 --> 02:35:03.180
it, it's going to cost us more than that to take care of it, so this is a great issue

02:35:03.180 --> 02:35:07.520
and I'm very much in favor.

02:35:07.520 --> 02:35:08.520
There's no further discussion?

02:35:08.520 --> 02:35:17.680
I just want to know how long will it take for these refurbished systems?

02:35:17.680 --> 02:35:20.920
How long will it take to get all this, or are they already ready?

02:35:20.920 --> 02:35:36.959
So they have them in stock already. We've already looked into it and confirmed that installation is available locally from the ambulance provider we purchased our two new ones from. So this is ready to go as soon as we have your approval.

02:35:36.959 --> 02:35:38.959
Holderman Sanders?

02:35:38.959 --> 02:35:43.959
Yeah, these are not new items, am I correct?

02:35:43.959 --> 02:35:45.959
and I.

02:35:47.079 --> 02:35:49.920
I'm just curious, when you say when this is refurbished, that

02:35:49.920 --> 02:35:54.399
means that we're purchasing used items at one point in time.

02:35:54.399 --> 02:35:59.899
And I'm just curious, we couldn't budget new platform

02:35:59.899 --> 02:36:02.959
power load systems. I'm just curious why we're

02:36:02.959 --> 02:36:09.079
venturing into a refurbished type unit and whether or not it

02:36:09.079 --> 02:36:12.079
would be feasible one way or the other.

02:36:12.079 --> 02:36:13.079
Husserlitz.

02:36:13.079 --> 02:36:17.600
Anything that's been refurbished that had been, that was an issue the very first time

02:36:17.600 --> 02:36:19.399
when it was brand new.

02:36:19.399 --> 02:36:23.520
So I'm just curious, I would like to know if you can bring some little clarity to me

02:36:23.520 --> 02:36:24.520
on that part.

02:36:24.520 --> 02:36:25.520
Sure.

02:36:25.520 --> 02:36:31.079
I understand your concerns and I had the same myself initially, but looking into it, these

02:36:31.079 --> 02:36:35.260
are as good as factory replacements.

02:36:35.260 --> 02:36:41.860
So they've gone back to factory, they've been completely reworked, rebuilt, repainted,

02:36:41.860 --> 02:36:47.299
to make us feel more comfortable, they offer a one-year warranty and even the brand new

02:36:47.299 --> 02:36:49.219
ones have a one-year warranty.

02:36:49.219 --> 02:36:53.459
So this is being fiscally responsible, getting two for less than the price of one.

02:36:53.459 --> 02:36:54.459
Okay.

02:36:54.459 --> 02:36:55.459
All right.

02:36:55.459 --> 02:36:56.459
That's all I want.

02:36:56.459 --> 02:36:57.459
There's no further discussion.

02:36:57.459 --> 02:36:58.940
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:36:58.940 --> 02:36:59.940
Stacy?

02:36:59.940 --> 02:37:00.940
Aye.

02:37:00.940 --> 02:37:01.940
Shadle?

02:37:01.940 --> 02:37:02.940
Aye.

02:37:02.940 --> 02:37:03.940
Sanders?

02:37:03.940 --> 02:37:04.940
Aye.

02:37:04.940 --> 02:37:05.940
Sellers?

02:37:05.940 --> 02:37:06.940
Aye.

02:37:06.940 --> 02:37:07.940
Klemm?

02:37:07.940 --> 02:37:08.940
Aye.

02:37:08.940 --> 02:37:09.940
Johnson?

02:37:09.940 --> 02:37:10.940
Aye.

02:37:10.940 --> 02:37:11.940
Zero.

02:37:11.940 --> 02:37:15.780
Item number 21, the adoption of resolution 202595.

02:37:15.780 --> 02:37:17.700
Could you please read this?

02:37:17.700 --> 02:37:23.979
Resolution approving purchase of Ferris ISX 2200 mower with Kawasaki motor and 60-inch

02:37:23.979 --> 02:37:28.579
mower deck from Peabuddy's North, Pecatonica, Illinois for the fire department.

02:37:28.579 --> 02:37:29.579
Chief Miller.

02:37:29.579 --> 02:37:30.579
Thank you, Your Honor.

02:37:30.579 --> 02:37:37.979
Again, before you this evening is the request to approve the purchase of a commercial lawnmower

02:37:37.979 --> 02:37:38.979
for the fire department.

02:37:38.979 --> 02:37:44.260
So the central fire station has nearly two and a half acres of land that we maintain

02:37:44.260 --> 02:37:52.899
ourselves. Each Friday, the lawn is cut by our members that are on duty and only interrupted

02:37:52.899 --> 02:38:00.700
by emergency calls. So in 2018, the fire department acquired the lawnmarts you see up on the screen

02:38:00.700 --> 02:38:06.059
from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, IDNR. What they had at the time was an excessive

02:38:06.059 --> 02:38:07.059
Huffines.

02:38:07.059 --> 02:38:25.540
We did receive that lawnmower and is now 15 years old and is experiencing several system

02:38:25.540 --> 02:38:26.540
failures.

02:38:26.540 --> 02:38:31.020
So the hydraulic system is what's used to steer each of the rear wheels, that's why

02:38:31.020 --> 02:38:32.020
Boyer.

02:38:32.020 --> 02:38:34.700
You'll see, it looks like handlebars by the seat.

02:38:34.700 --> 02:38:39.100
One steers the left rear wheel, that one steers the right rear wheel.

02:38:39.100 --> 02:38:47.219
So there is, it's hydraulically driven and the left steering mechanism, left wheel is

02:38:47.219 --> 02:38:48.879
starting to fail.

02:38:48.879 --> 02:38:53.020
So as you're going in a straight line, your hands are dissimilar.

02:38:53.020 --> 02:38:55.360
You're not like this, your arms are like this.

02:38:55.360 --> 02:39:01.000
So that's a hazard to the person who's operating that lawnmower.

02:39:01.000 --> 02:39:07.020
Also the frame and the mower deck have been repaired and welded numerous times in the past.

02:39:07.020 --> 02:39:11.680
So again I'd like to remind council that this moor does not belong to this city.

02:39:11.680 --> 02:39:22.719
It was obtained from the IDNR and it will need to be returned once we do acquire a replacement.

02:39:22.719 --> 02:39:27.280
So discussion on this, the moor is 15 years old and struggles to complete weekly mowing

02:39:27.280 --> 02:39:28.799
Tasks.

02:39:28.799 --> 02:39:29.879
We have been fortunate.

02:39:29.879 --> 02:39:36.110
We have been fortunate that it has serviced our needs for the past seven years at no cost other than maintenance and repairs.

02:39:36.110 --> 02:39:45.110
So we looked into this and yes, the mower does have to be returned to the IDNR, but that program no longer exists.

02:39:45.110 --> 02:39:50.110
We went to them trying to get a second free lawn mower and they said, no, we don't do that anymore.

02:39:50.110 --> 02:40:16.110
So, we have to return that to their excess property program and then so the finances of this acquisition, seven different more manufacturers were looked into and staff has determined that the Ferris 2200 model, the Kawasaki motor, best suits our needs and will accommodate us well into the future.

02:40:16.110 --> 02:40:26.670
So the cost of this commercial lawnmowers $12,348. So there's money in this year's budget for this

02:40:26.670 --> 02:40:32.989
purchase and it's also be funded by the fire department capital improvement fund using no

02:40:32.989 --> 02:40:39.870
dollars from the general fund for this purchase. So also I'd just like to add that this is the same

02:40:39.870 --> 02:40:46.750
Brand of Moore that they use in city yards for city properties. They stock

02:40:46.750 --> 02:40:54.229
various belts and filters and have experience working on this model. So we

02:40:54.229 --> 02:40:59.069
did compare this to John Deere and this was the least expensive more as well. So

02:40:59.069 --> 02:41:02.870
that's why we chose this one and we're proposing it to you this evening for

02:41:02.870 --> 02:41:12.709
approval. Sir, motion to adopt. So moved. Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded

02:41:12.709 --> 02:41:15.670
by Alderman Shadle, discussion.

02:41:15.670 --> 02:41:17.149
Alderman Sanders.

02:41:17.149 --> 02:41:26.149
Chief, for the more we're considering the one

02:41:26.149 --> 02:41:32.309
that you put on the agenda here, would this only

02:41:32.309 --> 02:41:36.950
be utilized for fire department areas

02:41:36.950 --> 02:41:40.829
and not being loaned out to other departments

02:41:40.829 --> 02:41:42.829
and Stacey.

02:41:44.430 --> 02:41:47.290
Are we going to designate this for their program or property or

02:41:47.290 --> 02:41:51.190
whatever the case is? Are we just going to designate this

02:41:51.190 --> 02:41:53.190
directly to the fire department usage?

02:41:54.790 --> 02:41:56.790
That would be my intent, yes. Okay.

02:41:57.909 --> 02:41:59.909
All right. Hold on, Stacy.

02:42:03.649 --> 02:42:11.219
I was just wondering why can't public works go mow the lawn?

02:42:11.219 --> 02:42:17.559
So that is a question that I had considered and discussed it with Manager Boyer and we

02:42:17.559 --> 02:42:24.079
realized that the folks that do the cutting, the lawn cutting for the city, two of them

02:42:24.079 --> 02:42:30.399
are part-time summer employees and the other ones are mostly used in resurfacing streets

02:42:30.399 --> 02:42:36.299
and doing sewer work and so they all have their other priority tasks to do.

02:42:36.299 --> 02:42:40.780
I've got my staff that are there if they're not out running emergency calls, they can

02:42:40.780 --> 02:42:44.860
be perched on that lawn mower and they'll take care of it. It would be nice though

02:42:44.860 --> 02:42:51.340
to have our firemen area taken care of and I hope you get it and I hope it lasts

02:42:51.340 --> 02:42:58.479
15 years plus. Thank you. There's no further discussion. Madam Clerk, please take the role.

02:42:58.479 --> 02:43:07.059
Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye.

02:43:07.059 --> 02:43:12.459
and Parker. Aye. The resolution is adopted eight to zero. Item number 22 is

02:43:12.459 --> 02:43:18.340
adoption of resolution 2025-96. Could you please read this? Resolution

02:43:18.340 --> 02:43:22.780
approving to accept the conveyance of the property commonly known as

02:43:22.780 --> 02:43:27.700
17 West Stevenson Street from Marianne Garbans. Manager Boyer. Thank you,

02:43:27.700 --> 02:43:33.100
Your Honor. Curt, if there's any way you could do a Google map of the area, I'd

02:43:33.100 --> 02:43:39.819
appreciate that. Marion Garverns has offered to convey 17 Stevenson Street to

02:43:39.819 --> 02:43:44.659
the city of Freeport for one dollar. We have an adjacent city-owned parcel

02:43:44.659 --> 02:43:49.799
that's right next door used to be the Wave Salon ABET books location. This

02:43:49.799 --> 02:43:54.260
property will qualify the site for significant outside grant funding for a

02:43:54.260 --> 02:43:58.979
new downtown pocket park. The acquisition will complete site control

02:43:58.979 --> 02:44:08.979
and the city to pursue park and placement grants. Also recently, Greater Freeport Partnership secured a large T-Mobile grant, I believe it was $50,000.

02:44:08.979 --> 02:44:18.979
So, Ms. Garvin's request that the park be named after the historic building once located on the site and a small raised flower garden be included in the design for her use.

02:44:18.979 --> 02:44:24.979
Staff recommends honoring these and all other minor requests consistent with city policy.

02:44:24.979 --> 02:44:30.059
upon approval staff will proceed with the acquisition, update the plan to reflect

02:44:30.059 --> 02:44:35.379
these features and apply for the Oslide grant which is the one I am referring to

02:44:35.379 --> 02:44:39.819
so staff requests approval of the acquisition of 17 Stevenson Street for

02:44:39.819 --> 02:44:46.100
one dollar. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. A motion made by Alderman Sellers

02:44:46.100 --> 02:44:51.180
seconded by Alderman Parker. Discussion on the resolution? I do have one more. Sure.

02:44:51.180 --> 02:44:57.979
and I do want to thank the GFP for their effort leading that that transfer. Thank

02:44:57.979 --> 02:45:18.420
you. There's no discussion? I would like to say. Okay, Alderman Stacey? I just want to say that this lady is a giver. We all make

02:45:18.420 --> 02:45:29.670
mistakes. We all lose our cool, but to give this property for a dollar speaks

02:45:29.670 --> 02:45:41.629
Williams, and so I hope that that be acknowledged and recognized in more ways than one, and

02:45:41.629 --> 02:45:47.649
I want to be the first one to say thank you.

02:45:47.649 --> 02:45:48.649
Alderman Sanders?

02:45:48.649 --> 02:45:49.649
Yeah.

02:45:49.649 --> 02:46:05.899
I have an awareness factor forming in my frontal lobe, I should say. I see you, Parker.

02:46:05.899 --> 02:46:22.360
But I have a question in regards to the fact that it was given for a dollar, but what's the initial reason why it was given?

02:46:22.360 --> 02:46:51.360
and in the generosity that the city is supposed to look at this as a as a generous kind of thing but we have not looked at the cultural, I'm talking right now, we have not looked at the cultural background of what I'm reading here in the memo of the people that are

02:46:52.360 --> 02:47:02.200
that are running this, and we're not looking at the full scope of why we're inventing taxpayers'

02:47:02.200 --> 02:47:10.120
dollars until we do an investigative probe of what's going on. And I'm looking at this memo,

02:47:10.120 --> 02:47:16.920
and I'm looking at the wordings, and I'm looking at the, I'm hoping the interpretation is not what

02:47:16.920 --> 02:47:17.920
and so on.

02:47:17.920 --> 02:47:24.760
I don't know what I'm thinking it is, but from my position, if we're not aware of certain

02:47:24.760 --> 02:47:29.840
things, we should not vote on things until we have a complete clarity of the background

02:47:29.840 --> 02:47:31.959
nature.

02:47:31.959 --> 02:47:39.040
Listen to what I just said, the background nature and cultural aspect of this, even to

02:47:39.040 --> 02:47:44.760
give it as a generosity, what will the city get in return?

02:47:44.760 --> 02:47:45.760
and John.

02:47:45.760 --> 02:48:10.920
And that's the reason why I'm bringing this awareness point up, is that we should be looking

02:48:10.920 --> 02:48:11.920
Anderson.

02:48:11.920 --> 02:48:27.920
And I just wanted to make sure that that council is very astute to what is being talked about

02:48:27.920 --> 02:48:31.760
here today on this matter, on this particular matter.

02:48:31.760 --> 02:48:38.879
Oren, Parker. Greater Freeport Partnership, this lot, there's three sections in it. They

02:48:38.879 --> 02:48:44.159
just had a grand opening and got a big grant to fix the leather to make it a park. This

02:48:44.159 --> 02:48:50.440
is just adding 30 feet to it. So it's a great thing that she did for us and I'm sure it'll

02:48:50.440 --> 02:48:54.760
help Greater Freeport Partnership and it'll make the area really nice. Well, I put it

02:48:54.760 --> 02:49:00.520
like this here. Would you like your second? Yeah, I put it like this here. Obviously you

02:49:00.520 --> 02:49:06.219
you weren't listening to me and no that's my point you weren't listening to me so you

02:49:06.219 --> 02:49:13.500
didn't hear all the Indian all the subscripts or the subject matter that underscores the

02:49:13.500 --> 02:49:19.500
things that I was talking about that comes out of this discussion memo that I'm looking

02:49:19.500 --> 02:49:27.159
at and if we have not looked at this memo this memo clear enough to understand the interpretation

02:49:27.159 --> 02:49:28.000
of Certain Things.

02:49:28.000 --> 02:49:56.000
We don't want to venture into something or be labeled something that is supporting something that is put in this memo, that's my whole point, and if we have not done a background study of the things that have been put in this memo and don't know who the characters are, we don't understand the process and the culture of this character and the background of this character. We need to understand who the characters are.

02:49:56.000 --> 02:50:02.719
to do our study more efficiently because words do matter, you know, words do matter and I

02:50:02.719 --> 02:50:09.459
just want you to know everything that we sometimes supposed to look at, we're supposed to define

02:50:09.459 --> 02:50:11.860
certain things that we don't understand.

02:50:11.860 --> 02:50:12.860
That's all I'm saying.

02:50:12.860 --> 02:50:13.860
Thank you.

02:50:13.860 --> 02:50:14.860
That's all I'm saying.

02:50:14.860 --> 02:50:17.239
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:50:17.239 --> 02:50:18.239
Stacy?

02:50:18.239 --> 02:50:19.239
Aye.

02:50:19.239 --> 02:50:20.239
Shadle?

02:50:20.239 --> 02:50:21.239
Aye.

02:50:21.239 --> 02:50:22.239
Sanders?

02:50:22.239 --> 02:50:23.239
No.

02:50:23.239 --> 02:50:24.239
Sellers?

02:50:24.239 --> 02:50:25.239
Aye.

02:50:25.239 --> 02:50:32.079
Williams, and Parker, aye. The resolution is adopted seven to one. Item number 23 is

02:50:32.079 --> 02:50:37.639
adoption of resolution 2025-99. Could you please read this? Resolution approving independent

02:50:37.639 --> 02:50:44.280
contractor agreement with Ultimate Surveying Application Corp for Wayne Duckman for consulting

02:50:44.280 --> 02:50:50.799
services for community and economic development department. City manager. Thank you, your

02:50:50.799 --> 02:50:55.879
Miller. As many of you know, Wayne has submitted his letter of resignation as a community development

02:50:55.879 --> 02:51:02.520
director. I asked him to stay on and we worked out about 16 hours a week until we get his

02:51:02.520 --> 02:51:08.840
position filled, which is currently being evaluated and we're in the process of interviewing

02:51:08.840 --> 02:51:15.020
candidates. So Mr. Duckman, for his own ease of accounting and so forth, asked that we

02:51:15.020 --> 02:51:23.739
We use his LLC which is Ultimate Serving Applications Corp as essentially to pay for his services

02:51:23.739 --> 02:51:28.040
at 16 hours a week through that way.

02:51:28.040 --> 02:51:33.940
So staff recommends moving forward with an agreement with Ultimate Serving Applications

02:51:33.940 --> 02:51:39.620
Corporation on a basically a week by week until we get the community director position

02:51:39.620 --> 02:51:41.299
filled.

02:51:41.299 --> 02:51:47.159
As of right now, that would be about $1,040 per week, plus any additional hours that are

02:51:47.159 --> 02:51:48.159
required.

02:51:48.159 --> 02:51:52.159
So far, we haven't asked for anything, but if some emergent issue comes up, I wanted

02:51:52.159 --> 02:51:56.479
to make sure to include that in case we need his services in addition.

02:51:56.479 --> 02:51:57.479
So.

02:51:57.479 --> 02:51:58.479
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:51:58.479 --> 02:51:59.479
It's all moved.

02:51:59.479 --> 02:52:00.479
Second.

02:52:00.479 --> 02:52:05.319
A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

02:52:05.319 --> 02:52:06.319
Discussion on the resolution.

02:52:06.319 --> 02:52:07.920
Alderman Stacey?

02:52:07.920 --> 02:52:08.920
So do I understand?

02:52:08.920 --> 02:52:12.200
I just want to remind you to try to put all your questions together instead of the back

02:52:12.200 --> 02:52:13.200
and forth.

02:52:13.200 --> 02:52:14.200
Please.

02:52:14.200 --> 02:52:15.200
Okay.

02:52:15.200 --> 02:52:24.500
So, do I understand you to be saying that we have agreed to, because I believe it's

02:52:24.500 --> 02:52:49.020
is already happening. Pay Duckman $140,000 for 16 hours. $140,000? No, $1,040. Oh, yes, per week. For 16 hours. Yes, that works out to about as current

02:52:49.020 --> 02:52:50.899
and Pam benefits at this time.

02:52:50.899 --> 02:52:55.899
And also that you had nine applicants,

02:52:56.299 --> 02:52:59.500
qualified applicants that have applied.

02:52:59.500 --> 02:53:03.340
So why haven't they, the interviewing process started,

02:53:03.340 --> 02:53:05.379
and why don't we have someone knowing

02:53:05.379 --> 02:53:08.500
that he was leaving in the 31st of July,

02:53:08.500 --> 02:53:12.500
lined up to pick up the pieces and carry this load?

02:53:12.500 --> 02:53:16.899
Because if he go over that 16 hours,

02:53:16.899 --> 02:53:20.940
and then it goes up to how much an hour?

02:53:20.940 --> 02:53:30.360
I mean, it goes to $90 an hour if we go over 16 hours a week.

02:53:30.360 --> 02:53:33.440
So your other question was Wayne tendered his resignation

02:53:33.440 --> 02:53:36.500
and we began the process of posting the job very

02:53:36.500 --> 02:53:39.680
shortly thereafter, within days.

02:53:39.680 --> 02:53:41.579
In our conversation, you told me that you

02:53:41.579 --> 02:53:44.840
had nine qualified applicants.

02:53:44.840 --> 02:53:47.659
My question is, why haven't we started?

02:53:47.659 --> 02:53:48.760
We have started.

02:53:48.760 --> 02:53:50.319
The interviewing process?

02:53:50.319 --> 02:53:51.200
Yes.

02:53:51.200 --> 02:53:53.379
It's a multi-phase process.

02:53:53.379 --> 02:53:54.719
What does that mean?

02:53:54.719 --> 02:53:59.799
There's more than one interview.

02:53:59.799 --> 02:54:02.200
Any other discussion?

02:54:02.200 --> 02:54:03.719
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:54:03.719 --> 02:54:04.639
Stacy?

02:54:04.639 --> 02:54:05.440
No.

02:54:05.440 --> 02:54:06.120
Shadle?

02:54:06.120 --> 02:54:06.760
Aye.

02:54:06.760 --> 02:54:07.399
Sanders?

02:54:07.399 --> 02:54:08.319
Yes.

02:54:08.319 --> 02:54:09.120
Sellers?

02:54:09.120 --> 02:54:09.600
Aye.

02:54:09.600 --> 02:54:10.159
Klemm?

02:54:10.159 --> 02:54:10.760
Aye.

02:54:10.760 --> 02:54:11.399
Johnson?

02:54:11.399 --> 02:54:12.540
Aye.

02:54:12.540 --> 02:54:15.040
Simmons?

02:54:15.040 --> 02:54:21.079
Can't do this with 9-1-1.

02:54:21.079 --> 02:54:21.799
Parker?

02:54:21.799 --> 02:54:23.200
Aye.

02:54:23.200 --> 02:54:26.680
The resolution is adopted six to two.

02:54:27.799 --> 02:54:31.760
Item number 24 is the adoption of resolution 2025-100.

02:54:31.760 --> 02:54:33.120
Could you please read this?

02:54:33.120 --> 02:54:36.520
Resolution approving the Americans with Disabilities

02:54:36.520 --> 02:54:38.000
Acts Grievance Commission

02:54:38.000 --> 02:54:40.000
to repair certain sidewalks in the city

02:54:40.000 --> 02:54:43.420
and authorizing the city manager to budget for such repairs.

02:54:45.120 --> 02:54:46.479
Darren.

02:54:46.479 --> 02:54:47.319
Good evening.

02:54:47.319 --> 02:54:49.639
This is the same topic that we talked about at the COW,

02:54:49.639 --> 02:54:52.719
just bringing it back for a formal vote.

02:54:52.719 --> 02:54:57.139
we have the ramps at park and church

02:54:57.139 --> 02:54:58.659
that are not compliant.

02:54:58.659 --> 02:55:02.620
We also had a petitioner write a letter to the council

02:55:02.620 --> 02:55:04.979
that was read in public comments.

02:55:04.979 --> 02:55:07.459
I will review anything that anybody wants to discuss.

02:55:07.459 --> 02:55:10.020
I'm not gonna go through the entire thing again.

02:55:10.020 --> 02:55:13.059
The intersection is not compliant.

02:55:13.059 --> 02:55:15.180
We started the 88 grievance policy

02:55:15.180 --> 02:55:17.219
to address situations like this.

02:55:18.540 --> 02:55:21.100
The commission voted unanimously

02:55:21.100 --> 02:55:23.659
to bring this to council for a resolution.

02:55:23.659 --> 02:55:27.100
And currently we don't have funding marked

02:55:27.100 --> 02:55:30.459
because this program started in the middle of the year.

02:55:30.459 --> 02:55:33.860
I do think we might be able to have

02:55:33.860 --> 02:55:36.379
city construction workers do these intersections

02:55:36.379 --> 02:55:38.979
later this fall as time permits.

02:55:38.979 --> 02:55:41.299
Otherwise they would be pushed to spring,

02:55:41.299 --> 02:55:46.079
but it is a necessary outcome that needs to happen here.

02:55:46.079 --> 02:55:49.760
Again, we have in the safe routes of school zone,

02:55:49.760 --> 02:55:53.780
or next to an eye doctor, a park view nursing home.

02:55:53.780 --> 02:55:56.680
This route connects to the park systems

02:55:56.680 --> 02:55:59.180
and we have a petitioner that's actually driving

02:55:59.180 --> 02:56:02.700
his mobility device out in the street

02:56:02.700 --> 02:56:06.139
to have safe access for him and his family

02:56:06.139 --> 02:56:08.219
during their enjoyment of the community.

02:56:08.219 --> 02:56:10.420
So I think this is a needed project

02:56:10.420 --> 02:56:12.219
and I appreciate your support.

02:56:12.219 --> 02:56:13.540
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:56:13.540 --> 02:56:14.379
So move.

02:56:14.379 --> 02:56:15.219
Second.

02:56:15.219 --> 02:56:16.780
Motion made by Alderman Sellers,

02:56:16.780 --> 02:56:18.260
seconded by Alderman Shadle,

02:56:18.260 --> 02:56:48.260
and I'm looking at your map and I remember talking about the fact that we had this discussion last week, I believe it was, sidewalk to nowhere kind of program and then I look at the agenda and then I look at your map and then I look at your map and then I look at your

02:56:48.260 --> 02:57:02.479
and I noticed something was added in this particular agenda on this particular article resolution, I should say.

02:57:02.479 --> 02:57:04.479
Let me clarify that. Nothing's changed.

02:57:04.479 --> 02:57:05.479
Nothing's changed?

02:57:05.479 --> 02:57:09.479
This is exactly what was presented at the COW word for word. It's the same exact memo.

02:57:09.479 --> 02:57:19.479
Okay. If nothing's changed, then when we're specifying certain things about the public property,

02:57:19.479 --> 02:57:24.360
I'm gonna put it like that sidewalks are public property, right?

02:57:24.360 --> 02:57:26.319
Only the ADA corners.

02:57:26.319 --> 02:57:29.520
Just only because that's not what it specifies

02:57:29.520 --> 02:57:32.559
inside of this ordinance agenda.

02:57:32.559 --> 02:57:34.479
That's the reason why I'm bringing it up.

02:57:34.479 --> 02:57:39.399
It doesn't specify or designate every aspect

02:57:39.399 --> 02:57:42.760
of what this is supposed to accommodate.

02:57:42.760 --> 02:57:45.440
And the reason why I asked that question is that

02:57:45.440 --> 02:57:50.440
is it feasible for a homeowner or public citizen

02:57:53.319 --> 02:57:57.479
to make a formal complaint about a sidewalk

02:57:57.479 --> 02:58:00.120
that sometimes you know sometimes they are lifted

02:58:00.120 --> 02:58:03.600
and you can trip and fall and break your leg,

02:58:03.600 --> 02:58:05.700
break your knee or whatever the case is.

02:58:07.440 --> 02:58:09.280
This is public property.

02:58:10.360 --> 02:58:14.479
When does it become ownership property

02:58:14.479 --> 02:58:17.040
and not only the ownership property,

02:58:19.079 --> 02:58:22.920
how do we take care of the concerned

02:58:22.920 --> 02:58:25.159
adjacent property owners?

02:58:27.260 --> 02:58:30.680
Concerns about people walking down this path

02:58:30.680 --> 02:58:33.719
or this sidewalk and possibly tripping

02:58:33.719 --> 02:58:36.879
because we heard the story for many years.

02:58:36.879 --> 02:58:38.879
We know that's out there

02:58:38.879 --> 02:58:41.959
and that's the reason why I brought this subject up.

02:58:41.959 --> 02:58:46.959
Will we be tentative to most residents or public property

02:58:47.719 --> 02:58:52.120
or public streets or sidewalks that will get attention

02:58:52.120 --> 02:58:54.780
to be rectified so these kinds of incursion

02:58:54.780 --> 02:58:59.780
does not cause any hazards or anything of that nature

02:59:00.079 --> 02:59:02.719
to the general public?

02:59:02.719 --> 02:59:07.719
That's basically what I'm asking because if homeowners

02:59:08.559 --> 02:59:11.600
or whoever wants something to be looked at,

02:59:11.600 --> 02:59:18.000
it's our obligation to make sure it's not about where, where do, where does that come in at?

02:59:18.000 --> 02:59:24.079
Well, we just, we covered that at the COW. Okay. The homeowners in Freeport own the sidewalks in

02:59:24.079 --> 02:59:25.680
front of their residence. Okay.

02:59:25.680 --> 02:59:26.920
in front of their residents or their businesses.

02:59:26.920 --> 02:59:30.239
We only own the ADA corners, the city.

02:59:30.239 --> 02:59:35.239
Well, when I talked about sidewalk to nowhere,

02:59:36.280 --> 02:59:39.200
that's part of property, that's someone's property,

02:59:39.200 --> 02:59:42.879
sidewalk to nowhere, and you're making a declaration

02:59:42.879 --> 02:59:47.879
of extending sidewalk, well, that's what I'm getting.

02:59:48.319 --> 02:59:50.559
That's how I'm understanding that.

02:59:50.559 --> 02:59:52.079
If I'm understanding it wrong,

02:59:52.079 --> 02:59:53.959
then it must be worded wrong,

02:59:53.959 --> 02:59:56.079
or it's gotta be interpreted wrong.

02:59:56.079 --> 02:59:59.879
So we'll show you a couple of pictures quickly,

02:59:59.879 --> 03:00:05.120
quick review, there we go.

03:00:05.120 --> 03:00:06.879
This is a sidewalk to nowhere.

03:00:06.879 --> 03:00:09.639
There's no ramp that crosses the street to go out here.

03:00:09.639 --> 03:00:12.920
This is called a carriage walk and they were popular

03:00:12.920 --> 03:00:17.559
back in the 90s, 80s, but they're no longer illegal

03:00:17.559 --> 03:00:20.520
because a handicapped person that is visually impaired

03:00:20.520 --> 03:00:22.819
could go down this sidewalk and they would not know

03:00:22.819 --> 03:00:24.559
that they can't cross the street.

03:00:24.559 --> 03:00:29.959
Ok, that's a sidewalk to nowhere. Ok, that's your definition of a sidewalk to nowhere.

03:00:29.959 --> 03:00:34.959
Well, there's also the sidewalks to nowhere. Kirk, could you go to the St. John's picture, please?

03:00:34.959 --> 03:00:39.360
So that's one definition of a sidewalk to nowhere.

03:00:39.360 --> 03:00:45.979
This is another sidewalk to nowhere. That's what I'm talking about.

03:00:45.979 --> 03:00:51.680
That's not our responsibility. That is the responsibility of the homeowner to finish that sidewalk, not the street.

03:00:51.680 --> 03:00:56.079
Ok, that subject, that right there, did not come up in the last discussion.

03:00:56.079 --> 03:00:58.879
Yes, we discussed it. That's why I put the sidewalk to nowhere.

03:00:58.879 --> 03:01:05.360
I know it came up for discussion, but it was addressed as a sidewalk to nowhere,

03:01:05.360 --> 03:01:10.479
according to what I was listening to. And that's the reason why I'm mentioning it, because

03:01:10.479 --> 03:01:17.200
there's a lot of residents throughout the city that have sidewalks to nowhere in front of their

03:01:17.200 --> 03:01:21.920
residents. And that's the reason why I'm addressing it now, because if you can do that, if you can

03:01:21.920 --> 03:01:35.000
Our current ordinances have the ability to cite homeowners and our businesses for not

03:01:35.000 --> 03:01:36.500
extending their sidewalks.

03:01:36.500 --> 03:01:39.440
We have never chosen to do that in the city of Freeport.

03:01:39.440 --> 03:01:45.239
Financially, it's not feasible for all these people, but the city could cite someone for

03:01:45.239 --> 03:01:47.180
not connecting their sidewalks.

03:01:47.180 --> 03:01:50.719
This sidewalk, I called it, goes to nowhere because it stops here.

03:01:50.719 --> 03:01:52.559
Baxley, Willow, and

03:01:52.559 --> 03:01:53.559
Richard.

03:01:53.559 --> 03:01:55.159
It doesn't connect to the church property and there's no sidewalk across the school property

03:01:55.159 --> 03:01:56.760
either.

03:01:56.760 --> 03:02:01.680
Those choices were made many, many years ago and it is not the city's responsibility to

03:02:01.680 --> 03:02:02.680
connect them.

03:02:02.680 --> 03:02:04.760
Okay, so we do have that part of an ordinance.

03:02:04.760 --> 03:02:08.040
No, Goldman Sanders, you're form and it says far exceeded.

03:02:08.040 --> 03:02:09.040
I'm sorry.

03:02:09.040 --> 03:02:13.719
I just wanted to make sure that the citizens of Freeport are getting all the accommodations

03:02:13.719 --> 03:02:14.719
that they need.

03:02:14.719 --> 03:02:17.159
Okay, but do you understand this isn't about all the sidewalks in Freeport?

03:02:17.159 --> 03:02:18.159
I know, but...

03:02:18.159 --> 03:02:19.159
This is about an ADA commission.

03:02:19.159 --> 03:02:41.159
People have a complaint or an issue. Just like I brought up the lift elevation of sidewalks, people can be in a hazard situation in front of their property, but they don't have the finances to rectify the problem, but the point of the matter is, where does the city come in at? Because if somebody trips and falls, somebody is liable.

03:02:41.159 --> 03:02:55.239
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:02:55.239 --> 03:02:56.239
Stacy?

03:02:56.239 --> 03:02:57.239
Aye.

03:02:57.239 --> 03:02:58.239
Shadle?

03:02:58.239 --> 03:02:59.239
Aye.

03:02:59.239 --> 03:03:00.239
Sanders?

03:03:00.239 --> 03:03:01.239
Aye.

03:03:01.239 --> 03:03:02.239
Sellers?

03:03:02.239 --> 03:03:03.239
Aye.

03:03:03.239 --> 03:03:05.739
Klemm?

03:03:05.739 --> 03:03:06.739
Aye.

03:03:06.739 --> 03:03:07.739
Johnson?

03:03:07.739 --> 03:03:08.739
Aye.

03:03:08.739 --> 03:03:09.739
Simmons?

03:03:09.739 --> 03:03:10.739
Parker?

03:03:10.739 --> 03:03:11.739
Aye.

03:03:11.739 --> 03:03:13.739
Approval of a bid. Could you please read this?

03:03:14.299 --> 03:03:17.739
Bid opening on July 22nd. Lift station on Walnut Avenue.

03:03:18.260 --> 03:03:19.139
Manager Boyer.

03:03:19.139 --> 03:03:20.319
Thank you, Your Honor.

03:03:20.319 --> 03:03:27.739
Fehr Graham designed and bid sanitary sewer lift station forced main piping and gravity improvements for the land road area sanitary sewer flow

03:03:28.260 --> 03:03:30.139
at the request of the city.

03:03:30.139 --> 03:03:38.739
The existing sewer system has an issue, a significant issue near the landfill perimeter and cannot be accessed for repairs due to IEP regulations,

03:03:38.739 --> 03:03:43.920
Williams, Landfill closure requirements and extreme depth of the sewer main from grade.

03:03:43.920 --> 03:03:50.780
This sewer area carries a significant flow to the city's interceptor on a daily basis

03:03:50.780 --> 03:03:56.000
and a public bid opening was held on July 22nd at 1030 a.m.

03:03:56.000 --> 03:04:01.040
City staff received four bids for the project from Martin and Company, Entrec Group, Kelsey

03:04:01.040 --> 03:04:03.799
Excavating and Fisher Excavating.

03:04:03.799 --> 03:04:07.440
Fisher excavating was missing required bid item.

03:04:07.440 --> 03:04:10.860
So it was deemed non-responsive and Kelsey's excavating

03:04:10.860 --> 03:04:15.860
was the lowest responsible bidder at $2,847,451 and 50 cents.

03:04:17.319 --> 03:04:20.040
Kelsey excavating is currently working on the 2025

03:04:20.040 --> 03:04:23.760
city street project and has completed other sewer force

03:04:23.760 --> 03:04:26.600
main work for the city of Freeport with positive results.

03:04:26.600 --> 03:04:30.000
The project completion is estimated for June, 2026,

03:04:30.000 --> 03:04:32.680
taking into account equipment lead times.

03:04:32.680 --> 03:04:36.520
This project is planned to be paid for with Land and Road TIF funds and staff recommends

03:04:36.520 --> 03:04:38.280
moving forward with this bid.

03:04:38.280 --> 03:04:39.719
Is there a motion to approve?

03:04:39.719 --> 03:04:40.719
So moved.

03:04:40.719 --> 03:04:41.719
Second.

03:04:41.719 --> 03:04:46.239
A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

03:04:46.239 --> 03:04:47.239
Discussion on the bid.

03:04:47.239 --> 03:04:48.920
Alderman Sanders.

03:04:48.920 --> 03:04:50.000
On the bid?

03:04:50.000 --> 03:04:51.000
On the bid.

03:04:51.000 --> 03:04:53.379
Okay.

03:04:53.379 --> 03:05:03.120
I feel absolutely, absolutely feel that there should not even been a bid entertained, first

03:05:03.120 --> 03:05:04.120
and John.

03:05:04.120 --> 03:05:13.899
First of all, on the landfill excavation, pro a bid, far as work that is going to be supposedly

03:05:13.899 --> 03:05:23.040
done without a complete survey and evaluation to determine the future of the landfills that

03:05:23.040 --> 03:05:28.540
are out there at the landfill on Walnut.

03:05:28.540 --> 03:05:38.299
There has to be information to the reason why we're working on a landfill sewer line that

03:05:38.299 --> 03:05:44.100
is possibly connected to the interceptors, and I don't think a bid should go out for

03:05:44.100 --> 03:05:52.940
any of that kind of a project until we have done a complete evaluation and study on that

03:05:52.940 --> 03:06:21.620
and I think the people of the city of Freeport should know that there's sewer lines out at

03:06:21.620 --> 03:06:37.620
and I think that the landfill that has not had a study to determine its existence and that thing could be still open to the city, the public causing all kinds of habits and problems so I think it needs to be re-evaluated.

03:06:37.620 --> 03:06:48.620
I don't like this, I don't like an incomplete study to determine whether or not we should be bidding on anything and I'm surprised a bid like that even hit the floor, hit this council floor.

03:06:48.620 --> 03:06:54.860
I am so surprised and the derelict of duty that we have not done anything to make that

03:06:54.860 --> 03:07:02.360
discovery happen and I'm looking at it here on the agenda and I'm saying to myself, where's

03:07:02.360 --> 03:07:04.700
the rest of the background noise?

03:07:04.700 --> 03:07:07.500
Where's the rest of the background information?

03:07:07.500 --> 03:07:12.780
Why haven't we had a formal discussion about these issues?

03:07:12.780 --> 03:07:18.459
We're just throwing money away without doing what we should be doing here and I don't like

03:07:18.459 --> 03:07:25.979
like the fact that it's been dismissed as if though we don't have a problem that could

03:07:25.979 --> 03:07:34.739
cause us problems within the near future. So I don't get it. I'm just, I'm just frustrated

03:07:34.739 --> 03:07:35.739
with that.

03:07:35.739 --> 03:08:00.649
Are you asking us to vote tonight on giving Davis, Illinois 2,847,451.50 cents. That's

03:08:00.649 --> 03:08:10.020
the bid. That's the lowest bid. I can't believe I'm here. Help me understand. It's not Davis,

03:08:10.020 --> 03:08:14.639
Illinois, that's where the contractor, that's their home address is Davis,

03:08:14.639 --> 03:08:18.860
Illinois. It's Kelsey Excavating. They're already doing work for the City of

03:08:18.860 --> 03:08:22.739
Freeport. They're doing our street projects and they were the low

03:08:22.739 --> 03:08:27.479
responsive bidder to the project. So yes, that is exactly what we're asking is to

03:08:27.479 --> 03:08:34.700
award money to them as the low bidder. Any other discussion? I would like to

03:08:34.700 --> 03:09:04.700
We had an entire meeting at the COW last last week that we went over these exact topic with the council that was here. We went through the flow and the gallons. And this has been an issue since city manager Bucus was on the staff. He's actually one that started the project. And there is a need for sewer flow and force made out there. And it's resulting in the landfill,

03:09:04.700 --> 03:09:09.680
Not because of the landfill, the flow problem is through the landfill.

03:09:09.680 --> 03:09:16.379
This station will bypass the landfill, and all the landfill flow from the leachate system

03:09:16.379 --> 03:09:22.379
will go into this station, as well as all of the lamb road tipped to stick and any expansion

03:09:22.379 --> 03:09:23.979
that happens in either direction.

03:09:23.979 --> 03:09:26.000
We have an expansion that happens in either direction, east or west.

03:09:26.000 --> 03:09:27.000
Mike?

03:09:27.000 --> 03:09:30.000
Okay, now remember this is about the bid.

03:09:30.000 --> 03:09:34.020
Well, he wasn't talking. Oh, well.

03:09:34.020 --> 03:09:39.020
All right, Mayor.

03:09:39.020 --> 03:09:44.020
You know, this, this, this stuff can become comical.

03:09:44.020 --> 03:09:47.020
If you don't know exactly what is being said.

03:09:47.020 --> 03:09:50.020
And then it'll just fly right over your head.

03:09:50.020 --> 03:09:55.100
Will, you understood just what he was just saying. I'm just going to, if it's not about

03:09:55.100 --> 03:10:00.180
the bid, I just want to make a comment about what he just said. Is that okay? Without the

03:10:00.180 --> 03:10:05.579
term, without the word of bidding coming out of my mouth, I just want to make a comment

03:10:05.579 --> 03:10:12.620
about what he just said. Is that okay? Because he makes comments about what we say.

03:10:12.620 --> 03:10:16.620
and

03:10:16.620 --> 03:10:35.620
that whole landfill situation going around the situation, but you never talked about how you're going to disconnect from the interceptors or how you're going to abandon that whole system throughout the whole process of doing anything.

03:10:35.620 --> 03:11:07.149
We're just going to abandon something that has nowhere to go and yet it is still alive and it's still functionable but yet we're still going to make an investment to divert the line away from its normal path already to accommodate what type of flow are we trying to demonstrate here because if it's not broke, then why trying to

03:11:07.149 --> 03:11:08.149
and so on.

03:11:08.149 --> 03:11:18.829
And so if we're closing the landfill down, if the landfill is being closed down and excavation

03:11:18.829 --> 03:11:23.790
and all these kinds of things are going to take place over at the landfill, then we must

03:11:23.790 --> 03:11:30.309
do something about the existing sewer lines that are flowing to the interceptor out of

03:11:30.309 --> 03:11:35.649
all places and not talking about the disconnect.

03:11:35.649 --> 03:11:36.649
Miller.

03:11:36.649 --> 03:11:42.649
There has to be a disconnect there because if not, there could be infiltration at the

03:11:42.649 --> 03:11:45.569
intercept, wherever this thing dumps off to.

03:11:45.569 --> 03:11:51.250
I'd like to know how you're going to reroute it and reconnect it, whatever you're thinking

03:11:51.250 --> 03:11:52.250
about doing.

03:11:52.250 --> 03:11:55.969
I'm just baffled with all of that.

03:11:55.969 --> 03:11:59.090
So if there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, did you have something?

03:11:59.090 --> 03:12:02.209
I wanted an answer.

03:12:02.209 --> 03:12:07.170
The answer is it's all in the plan and it's in the details, but the details are are too

03:12:07.170 --> 03:12:10.729
great to explain at a council meeting.

03:12:10.729 --> 03:12:15.649
These questions should be asked throughout the week so they can be answered, not at this

03:12:15.649 --> 03:12:16.649
floor.

03:12:16.649 --> 03:12:17.649
That discussion would take hours.

03:12:17.649 --> 03:12:18.649
You got that right.

03:12:18.649 --> 03:12:20.889
But you haven't asked me any questions except for here.

03:12:20.889 --> 03:12:21.889
I won't.

03:12:21.889 --> 03:12:24.729
Alderman Sanders, you need to stop being out of order, please.

03:12:24.729 --> 03:12:25.729
Okay, I'm sorry.

03:12:25.729 --> 03:12:27.090
I apologize, Mayor.

03:12:27.090 --> 03:12:31.209
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:12:31.209 --> 03:12:48.209
Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? No. Parker? Aye. The motion passes 5 to 3. Item number 26 is another bid. Could you please read?

03:12:48.209 --> 03:12:58.129
Bid opening on July 30th, CD007-2025, demolition of eight properties.

03:12:58.129 --> 03:13:00.129
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

03:13:00.129 --> 03:13:06.129
Excuse me. Eight properties were published in the Journal Standard on July 24th,

03:13:06.129 --> 03:13:13.129
or a bid opening that occurred on July 30th at 9 o'clock in the morning at City Hall,

03:13:13.129 --> 03:13:16.129
and it was for the demolition of eight blighted properties.

03:13:16.129 --> 03:13:24.969
Bates, and on July 30th, staff received bids from four contractors, and based on the submitted

03:13:24.969 --> 03:13:31.809
bids, staff is recommending issuing a contract for the demolition of all eight properties

03:13:31.809 --> 03:13:37.809
to Albert and Sun Earthworks for the amount of $100,610, as they are the lowest responsible

03:13:37.809 --> 03:13:38.809
bidder.

03:13:38.809 --> 03:13:40.969
Is there a motion to approve?

03:13:40.969 --> 03:13:41.969
So moved.

03:13:41.969 --> 03:13:42.969
Second.

03:13:42.969 --> 03:14:01.579
The money used for these demolitions are coming from what?

03:14:01.579 --> 03:14:12.709
So yeah, I put that in the memo as well, scroll down here a little bit.

03:14:12.709 --> 03:14:13.709
Better yet.

03:14:13.709 --> 03:14:14.709
Yeah.

03:14:14.709 --> 03:14:29.709
We had a meeting at the library. There was money that we had from the east side of town, money and grants that were given to us to destroy property over there.

03:14:29.709 --> 03:14:41.709
Park Street, Crocker Street, Wilbur Avenue, Adelbert Avenue are all on the east side of town. We had money we had to use or lose.

03:14:41.709 --> 03:14:49.909
Why are we using that money for those streets when we have money that we have to use or lose?

03:14:49.909 --> 03:14:57.729
I'll make it a little easier to see because it's a little bright, but maybe you can see it a little easier now.

03:14:57.729 --> 03:15:03.129
Funding for the demolitions comes from FEMA floodway grant programs.

03:15:03.129 --> 03:15:10.129
Okay, but wasn't that FEMA floodway grant program for housing on the east side of town?

03:15:10.129 --> 03:15:16.649
Correct. So the demolitions are funded by the FEMA floodway grant programs, and then these are the houses that

03:15:17.329 --> 03:15:19.329
the property owners receive money for

03:15:20.690 --> 03:15:26.969
for selling their property and the city is demolishing it now as part of the FEMA program. But Carroll, Prospect Terrace,

03:15:27.530 --> 03:15:30.889
Pleasant Street, and Williams Road, wherever that is,

03:15:31.610 --> 03:15:33.610
it's not in the FEMA,

03:15:33.809 --> 03:15:39.770
it's not in the area where the FEMA money was granted. So funding for the demolitions comes from the

03:15:40.129 --> 03:15:45.290
Illinois Housing Development Authority Strong Communities Program, which the city has now

03:15:45.290 --> 03:15:48.409
spent most of it, but there's still money left.

03:15:48.409 --> 03:15:54.809
That program is $300,000 for the demolition of blighted properties and the FEMA floodway

03:15:54.809 --> 03:15:55.889
grant program.

03:15:55.889 --> 03:16:01.049
So if it's on the east side and eligible, it receives the FEMA floodway grant program

03:16:01.049 --> 03:16:02.049
money.

03:16:02.049 --> 03:16:06.850
If it is not, it has fallen into the Ida Strong Community Program and that's where the funding

03:16:06.850 --> 03:16:07.850
comes from.

03:16:07.850 --> 03:16:21.850
But what about the, what was it, 10 or 12 houses that was not on the east side of town that were scheduled to come down this year, and none have come down?

03:16:21.850 --> 03:16:35.850
I have no idea. Well, you'd have to give me specific properties. We now have 17 properties that are, this is at first 8, and I have another 9, and this department, I believe, has another bid opening coming for 10 more properties.

03:16:35.850 --> 03:16:50.850
I spoke with you and City Manager Boyer and I asked for a list. So are you telling me this is 8 of the 17 on the list?

03:16:50.850 --> 03:16:56.850
I would say probably yes. I don't have that list in front of me, but I don't know what properties...

03:16:56.850 --> 03:16:58.850
I'm still waiting for it to...

03:16:58.850 --> 03:17:03.889
I don't know I mean I could tell you that there's eight properties being demolished in this bid

03:17:03.889 --> 03:17:09.889
package there's about to be nine more coming up after this and then my staff is working on another

03:17:09.889 --> 03:17:14.530
10 there's going to be another bid opening so that would be 27 properties probably in the next two

03:17:14.530 --> 03:17:24.610
months they're going to be demolished. Okay. Madam Clerk Alderman Klemm. Just because it was

03:17:24.610 --> 03:17:32.530
As mentioned before, Wayne, many of us know about the properties on the east side, but

03:17:32.530 --> 03:17:38.450
could you explain, because some of the renters have come forward, could some of these houses

03:17:38.450 --> 03:17:44.530
be rebuilt, so on and so forth, tell them the status of what these houses, the condition

03:17:44.530 --> 03:17:45.850
of them, just so we...

03:17:45.850 --> 03:17:52.690
Well, the short answer is any property on the east side, these properties, I've walked

03:17:52.690 --> 03:17:55.569
through the majority of these personally,

03:17:55.569 --> 03:17:59.370
because I have to let in our asbestos contractor.

03:17:59.370 --> 03:18:02.889
So many of these properties have a water line

03:18:02.889 --> 03:18:05.090
through the house, actually, on the walls.

03:18:05.090 --> 03:18:06.770
Many of them do.

03:18:06.770 --> 03:18:11.370
Many of them also have soggy floors from water damage.

03:18:11.370 --> 03:18:15.649
So practically speaking, they're beyond repair.

03:18:15.649 --> 03:18:18.649
But then if you want to go into actual government regulation,

03:18:18.649 --> 03:18:21.129
FEMA, at the federal level, is not

03:18:21.129 --> 03:18:22.129
Huffines.

03:18:22.129 --> 03:18:27.850
We're not going to let a government entity, like the city, issue permits for fixing a

03:18:27.850 --> 03:18:32.450
property for more than 50 percent of its value.

03:18:32.450 --> 03:18:37.690
So there's a practical implication which basically says the buildings are gone too far, but there's

03:18:37.690 --> 03:18:42.409
also the federal government which is saying you cannot redevelop it.

03:18:42.409 --> 03:18:46.530
Another common complaint, I've read some of the complaints from our community, is that

03:18:46.530 --> 03:18:49.409
there's poor living conditions.

03:18:49.409 --> 03:18:54.649
The truly unfortunate part is, many of these properties are picked up, now the ones up

03:18:54.649 --> 03:18:59.969
here that were talked about, the non-FEMA Eastside properties, the sad thing is, many

03:18:59.969 --> 03:19:06.190
of these properties are picked up for back taxes, they're not properly repaired, and

03:19:06.190 --> 03:19:11.049
people are renting them, and then the city ultimately comes by, has to do inspections

03:19:11.049 --> 03:19:16.149
and finds out that these properties that are so far gone are not completely repaired to

03:19:16.149 --> 03:19:21.989
to an adequate level, and it's sad that our community is actually renting these properties.

03:19:21.989 --> 03:19:25.840
is actually renting these properties so many of these properties are all of

03:19:25.840 --> 03:19:34.040
these properties are so far gone that they cannot be repaired. Thank you very

03:19:34.040 --> 03:19:37.479
much I appreciate it. You're welcome. And what you're also

03:19:37.479 --> 03:19:43.879
stipulating that they're that that these properties are since they are at the

03:19:43.879 --> 03:19:50.600
point of demolition there shouldn't be any occupiers even in those buildings

03:19:50.600 --> 03:19:53.479
and that we as we speak today, is that what you're saying?

03:19:53.479 --> 03:19:54.760
Yes, that is correct.

03:19:54.760 --> 03:19:57.879
And that we should be moving forward

03:19:57.879 --> 03:20:02.000
to having those property tore down.

03:20:02.000 --> 03:20:06.600
Have we had any complaints about any of the properties

03:20:06.600 --> 03:20:10.680
that we're tearing down to be reconsidered for rehab

03:20:10.680 --> 03:20:13.719
or rehabilitation and that kind of thing?

03:20:13.719 --> 03:20:17.360
Have we had that kind of expression down

03:20:17.360 --> 03:20:20.440
at the development, at the community development

03:20:20.440 --> 03:20:24.159
to reconsider anything that someone was interested in.

03:20:24.159 --> 03:20:28.680
All of these Eastside properties here that you're seeing here

03:20:28.680 --> 03:20:31.840
were purchased at a closing.

03:20:31.840 --> 03:20:32.760
Paperwork was signed.

03:20:32.760 --> 03:20:35.680
And the property owners, if they lived,

03:20:35.680 --> 03:20:38.879
they received appraised value plus $31,000

03:20:38.879 --> 03:20:42.159
if they lived in the property during the time of the flood.

03:20:42.159 --> 03:20:45.840
The other properties up here are either fast track demolitions

03:20:45.840 --> 03:20:47.680
or they are purchased off of the back

03:20:47.680 --> 03:20:48.680
Huffines.

03:20:48.680 --> 03:20:56.120
So, any property up here that is purchased for back taxes was owned by the county.

03:20:56.120 --> 03:20:57.360
The city owns it.

03:20:57.360 --> 03:20:58.920
There's not going to be a complaint.

03:20:58.920 --> 03:21:04.360
Any property that is a fast-track demolition has had proper notice and there's due process

03:21:04.360 --> 03:21:08.079
for that property owner to file a complaint and stop demolition.

03:21:08.079 --> 03:21:16.319
So at any point in time, every one of these properties has had an opportunity to talk

03:21:16.319 --> 03:21:18.319
and

03:21:20.340 --> 03:21:22.340
Paul.

03:21:24.889 --> 03:21:26.489
I think it's a good time to talk about development, et cetera,

03:21:26.489 --> 03:21:31.020
and they're no longer at that point.

03:21:33.340 --> 03:21:34.940
Holderman Sanders, please remember we're talking about a

03:21:34.940 --> 03:21:36.940
bid. This is about approving a bid.

03:21:40.459 --> 03:21:43.159
Okay. You know, sometimes I have to navigate myself through the

03:21:43.159 --> 03:21:45.159
process.

03:21:47.780 --> 03:21:49.780
Even though it might be inconvenient to a lot of folk

03:21:50.100 --> 03:21:52.540
to the bidding portion of it all.

03:21:52.540 --> 03:21:59.170
Only thing I'd like to know is when you're looking at bids

03:22:03.329 --> 03:22:07.450
for these properties that are supposed to be demoed

03:22:07.450 --> 03:22:11.450
and people have not any complaints

03:22:11.450 --> 03:22:13.930
about these property and reconsideration,

03:22:13.930 --> 03:22:18.690
are you receiving anything about these properties

03:22:18.690 --> 03:22:23.690
that should make you say, question it or reconsider

03:22:24.930 --> 03:22:28.030
or anything, is anybody making any kind of proposals

03:22:28.030 --> 03:22:31.850
to the community about these properties?

03:22:31.850 --> 03:22:35.309
No, there is nothing substantive about these properties

03:22:35.309 --> 03:22:38.809
that's being proposed for redevelopment, et cetera.

03:22:38.809 --> 03:22:40.530
Okay, all right then.

03:22:40.530 --> 03:22:42.530
Okay, Alderman Johnson.

03:22:42.530 --> 03:22:44.290
I just wondered what makes the difference

03:22:44.290 --> 03:22:46.969
in the price of the bid, is it just the size of the house,

03:22:46.969 --> 03:22:48.290
the material it's made out of

03:22:48.290 --> 03:22:49.290
Miller.

03:22:49.290 --> 03:22:50.290
What makes the difference between...

03:22:50.290 --> 03:22:55.389
Your biggest, sorry, go ahead, I apologize.

03:22:55.389 --> 03:23:01.809
Your biggest, truly the biggest gap that you're going to see up here on prices, majority of

03:23:01.809 --> 03:23:03.750
it's going to be asbestos abatement.

03:23:03.750 --> 03:23:09.809
So every single property on here has an asbestos inspection and on the bid packet there is

03:23:09.809 --> 03:23:16.030
a list from a contractor that says what has asbestos on the property and if there's asbestos

03:23:16.030 --> 03:23:40.569
Southerners, Somerset,

03:23:46.030 --> 03:23:53.430
Item number 27 is another bid approval. Could you please read this?

03:23:53.430 --> 03:23:59.430
Bid opening on July 30th, CD008-2025, demolition of nine properties.

03:23:59.430 --> 03:24:01.430
Director Duckman.

03:24:01.430 --> 03:24:03.430
Excuse me. Thank you, Madam Mayor.

03:24:03.430 --> 03:24:08.430
As promised, here are the other nine properties that are up for demolition.

03:24:08.430 --> 03:24:12.430
And these nine properties were published in the Journal Standard on July 24th.

03:24:12.430 --> 03:24:17.430
And the bid opening was held at City Hall on July 30th and 915.

03:24:17.430 --> 03:24:18.430
Huffines.

03:24:18.430 --> 03:24:29.030
The city staff received bids from four contractors and this, based on the submitted bids, the

03:24:29.030 --> 03:24:36.870
lowest responsible builder was Alber and Sun Earthworks and they submitted a bid for $121,570

03:24:36.870 --> 03:24:42.629
to demolish all properties and staff recommends issuing them the contract as the lowest responsible

03:24:42.629 --> 03:24:43.629
bidder.

03:24:43.629 --> 03:24:44.629
Is there a motion to approve?

03:24:44.629 --> 03:24:45.629
So moved.

03:24:45.629 --> 03:24:46.629
Second.

03:24:46.629 --> 03:24:51.270
made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm. Discussion on the bid.

03:24:52.549 --> 03:25:03.510
Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker?

03:25:05.270 --> 03:25:12.469
Who is absent? The motion passes seven to zero. Item number 28 is another bid. Could you please read?

03:25:12.469 --> 03:25:19.909
bid opening on August 1st 2025 CD 009 2025 fence installation and board up at

03:25:19.909 --> 03:25:27.469
114 122 South Liberty Avenue hey thank thank you madam mayor so talk a little

03:25:27.469 --> 03:25:35.190
bit about what we have going on here have a site plan here kind of showing

03:25:35.190 --> 03:25:40.309
what what's going on at the Raleigh complex as everybody knows the Raleigh

03:25:40.309 --> 03:25:59.309
We've been working with city manager Boyer and discussed options on how we can better secure the site, and so we put out to bid a site plan illustrating what we could do to secure the site, so essentially that's what we've been working on for the past couple of years.

03:25:59.309 --> 03:26:09.709
We put out to bid a site plan illustrating what we could do to secure the site.

03:26:09.709 --> 03:26:14.309
So essentially there is a six foot high chain link fence that's going to go around the Raleigh

03:26:14.309 --> 03:26:16.149
Complex.

03:26:16.149 --> 03:26:17.149
It's going to connect.

03:26:17.149 --> 03:26:21.389
There's an existing garage here, another existing building here, and essentially it's going

03:26:21.389 --> 03:26:25.930
to close off the entire structure with a six foot high fence.

03:26:25.930 --> 03:26:29.930
There's going to be one six foot gate here that they could enter or see staff will have

03:26:29.930 --> 03:26:35.290
a key to enter in hopes that we can better secure the site.

03:26:35.290 --> 03:26:43.889
If we scroll down a little bit, I kind of show you some of the windows were also part

03:26:43.889 --> 03:26:46.729
of this bit is also going to include a board up.

03:26:46.729 --> 03:26:56.870
So I've drawn in red the building the okay, he's going to full screen mode.

03:26:56.870 --> 03:27:02.709
I showed the essentially it's going to be all of the first floor windows on the Raleigh complex are going to be I

03:27:03.469 --> 03:27:05.670
Highlighted in red here what it's going to look like

03:27:06.590 --> 03:27:08.590
these windows will be boarded up and

03:27:09.590 --> 03:27:14.829
Then if you scroll up there will be a few more that will be boarded up that basically essentially all of the windows on the first

03:27:14.829 --> 03:27:16.829
floor will be boarded up and

03:27:17.590 --> 03:27:19.590
So the city staff

03:27:19.670 --> 03:27:25.270
At the bid opening it was published in a journal standard on July 27th and the bidding

03:27:25.270 --> 03:27:34.270
Bid opening occurred on August 1st at 10 a.m. at City Hall and City staff received bids from three contractors.

03:27:34.270 --> 03:27:41.270
Fence Peoria was eliminated as they did not submit all the required documents.

03:27:41.270 --> 03:27:49.270
And the lowest responsible bidder was Winter Construction at a proposal of $78,000.

03:27:49.270 --> 03:27:53.829
Sellers, and staff is recommending moving forward with winter construction for the installation

03:27:53.829 --> 03:27:58.110
of a fence and board up of all of the first floor windows at the Raleigh Building.

03:27:58.110 --> 03:28:01.760
Is there a motion to approve?

03:28:01.760 --> 03:28:02.760
So moved.

03:28:02.760 --> 03:28:03.760
Second.

03:28:03.760 --> 03:28:09.639
We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

03:28:09.639 --> 03:28:10.639
Discussion?

03:28:10.639 --> 03:28:11.639
Alderman Stacy?

03:28:11.639 --> 03:28:18.000
If we're putting up a fence, why do we have to worry with the windows if there's going

03:28:18.000 --> 03:28:20.000
and

03:28:21.000 --> 03:28:23.000
John.

03:28:24.100 --> 03:28:26.899
» I'm wondering if you're going to be a fence around the whole

03:28:26.899 --> 03:28:30.899
building and better yet, why not just tear it down?

03:28:30.899 --> 03:28:36.100
» Well, the demolition would probably push close to $10

03:28:36.100 --> 03:28:40.100
million. So with budget season coming up, it might be a good

03:28:40.100 --> 03:28:44.000
idea for you to possibly propose that. But until then,

03:28:44.000 --> 03:28:49.159
just a fence it's important that staff is trying to secure the area as much as

03:28:49.159 --> 03:28:53.620
possible so we have broken windows in glass and it's an easier way that if

03:28:53.620 --> 03:28:56.680
somebody were to get in through the fence they could still climb into the

03:28:56.680 --> 03:29:00.319
building so we're doing everything we can staff wants to do everything they

03:29:00.319 --> 03:29:06.959
can to secure the site and protect it from further vandalism so this is going

03:29:06.959 --> 03:29:18.370
B. What, a four-foot fence? Six-foot-high fence. Six-foot-high fence. Um, link or? Chain link.

03:29:18.370 --> 03:29:21.370
Ormond, Sanders

03:29:21.370 --> 03:29:27.250
Pullerman, Sanders. Mr. Duckman, that building been in place for how many years?

03:29:27.250 --> 03:29:34.290
Probably close to a hundred years. Yeah and the main reason why and I want the

03:29:34.290 --> 03:29:38.450
general public to know the main reason why it hasn't been considered to be

03:29:38.450 --> 03:29:51.610
Demoed at this time, and the outbreak or the outcome or the environment that this particular

03:29:51.610 --> 03:29:57.770
building could bring unto the city and why haven't we made proposal for grants to do

03:29:57.770 --> 03:30:04.489
it the proper way, and if there's a reason why that is, kind of educate us a little bit

03:30:04.489 --> 03:30:07.889
on why this building is still standing,

03:30:07.889 --> 03:30:12.889
and we're taking $5 to try to mend it up with Band-Aids,

03:30:14.170 --> 03:30:17.530
and there should be appropriate grants

03:30:17.530 --> 03:30:19.950
for this kind of hazard.

03:30:19.950 --> 03:30:21.770
This building is a complete hazard.

03:30:21.770 --> 03:30:24.610
It's been here, like you say, over 100 years,

03:30:24.610 --> 03:30:26.489
but been out of commission, I'm gonna say,

03:30:26.489 --> 03:30:29.370
about over 50 years, you know, that kind of thing.

03:30:29.370 --> 03:30:31.229
But the point that I'm making is,

03:30:31.229 --> 03:31:01.229
How come we have not looked into this particular matter instead of throwing band-aids up against it and see what the outcome is that we are considering because that building has been an eyesore to the city of Freeport for decades and we need to be trying to be tentative even about that as opposed to if we can take $10 million and find grants for $10 million to tear down a building

03:31:01.229 --> 03:31:09.229
and I should be able to take $10 million to erect housings, apartments, complex or whatever

03:31:09.229 --> 03:31:10.469
where they should be designated.

03:31:10.469 --> 03:31:15.469
I'm just saying are we considering any of those aspects at this point in time?

03:31:15.469 --> 03:31:16.469
A couple things.

03:31:16.469 --> 03:31:21.350
Well, you had a lot there, so I'll try to address all of your comments.

03:31:21.350 --> 03:31:26.549
The first comment is when you walk down this alley, I don't know the last time you walked

03:31:26.549 --> 03:31:29.670
down this alley, it's full of stone.

03:31:29.670 --> 03:31:37.629
and what it is is the cap up here is likely, we know people are breaking into this area.

03:31:37.629 --> 03:31:38.750
We have evidence of that.

03:31:38.750 --> 03:31:40.829
We have proof of that.

03:31:40.829 --> 03:31:44.510
There's quite a bit of vandalism for people breaking in and it's likely that they're pushing

03:31:44.510 --> 03:31:56.629
all of the cap and stone into this alley and right now, after observing and knowing that,

03:31:56.629 --> 03:32:03.030
I find it just irresponsible to continue to allow, God forbid somebody walks down there

03:32:03.030 --> 03:32:04.790
and that stone hits a person.

03:32:04.790 --> 03:32:11.030
So at that point, the most immediate action to do is to lock off this alley and the surrounding

03:32:11.030 --> 03:32:12.030
area.

03:32:12.030 --> 03:32:17.549
That's truly the honest reason why this quote unquote band-aid is being done is to protect

03:32:17.549 --> 03:32:18.750
the public.

03:32:18.750 --> 03:32:25.229
That's the almost honest answer that I can give right there.

03:32:25.229 --> 03:32:32.809
Now we're talking about demolition, certainly that's a budget discussion to bring up with

03:32:32.809 --> 03:32:37.510
City Manager Boyer that if the city wants to try to find $10 million taxpayer dollars

03:32:37.510 --> 03:32:42.670
to demolish, and I'm only giving you the estimate, it could be more.

03:32:42.670 --> 03:32:47.549
It is, I mean if the city demolishes this, I heard all the persons say, Stacy, say taxpayer

03:32:47.549 --> 03:32:51.950
dollars, yes, if the city demolishes this, it would be city taxpayer funds.

03:32:51.950 --> 03:32:57.030
Now, is it possible that we could go after grants for this demolition, yes and we can

03:32:57.030 --> 03:33:02.870
investigate that, yes that takes time, yes it takes time.

03:33:02.870 --> 03:33:10.870
Other part to that is brownfield reuse, other communities have had success in redeveloping,

03:33:10.870 --> 03:33:18.469
this is a brownfield site, an old industrial building that has lacked use in 50 years let's

03:33:18.469 --> 03:33:25.329
Say, okay. I have been part of bringing developers, potential developers into this site with ideas

03:33:25.329 --> 03:33:30.309
of redevelopment. I have. It's a tough sell. I'm not going to sit here and tell you that

03:33:30.309 --> 03:33:37.069
that's an easy sell. So the tough decision city staff has is and should also look at

03:33:37.069 --> 03:33:44.090
in parallel at the same time is looking to redevelop it, which would eliminate the need

03:33:44.090 --> 03:33:51.549
for a Demolition or also and I'm saying parallel so at the same time and also investigate grants

03:33:51.549 --> 03:33:55.229
for its demolition and that's what we're doing.

03:33:55.229 --> 03:33:57.930
That's exactly what we're doing.

03:33:57.930 --> 03:34:05.569
I'm glad to hear that we are on the move with that as something that has been put on the

03:34:05.569 --> 03:34:11.850
back burner for decades and nobody has brought the subject matter up and I think it's a good

03:34:11.850 --> 03:34:41.850
We're throwing lift stations and water wells and places like that, and we're getting grants for all these kinds of things, but one thing that we have not focused on is the haphazardly, haphazard things that is being in our community that it really is an environment problem. It's not an environmental problem. It's not an environmental problem.

03:34:41.850 --> 03:34:49.450
it's not going to go away and the thing about it is we need to pursue grants that rectifies

03:34:49.450 --> 03:34:54.809
and take care of these kinds of things that we need to get rid of.

03:34:54.809 --> 03:34:55.889
I can see that.

03:34:55.889 --> 03:35:00.489
I can see the environment of these building calls.

03:35:00.489 --> 03:35:11.770
Health breathing problems within the city without the city doing a full evaluation of

03:35:11.770 --> 03:35:13.450
of the air of the city.

03:35:13.450 --> 03:35:15.170
I don't even think we test our air here

03:35:15.170 --> 03:35:16.569
in the city of Freeport.

03:35:16.569 --> 03:35:18.409
To be honest with you, we should start,

03:35:18.409 --> 03:35:20.129
but you know, I don't think we do,

03:35:20.129 --> 03:35:24.670
but just to get an idea of what a building can do

03:35:24.670 --> 03:35:27.750
to the city without knowing that certain agents

03:35:27.750 --> 03:35:30.850
are floating around out there in the community,

03:35:30.850 --> 03:35:33.489
we need to do a study on that as well.

03:35:33.489 --> 03:35:35.610
I'm just venting right now, but.

03:35:35.610 --> 03:35:36.889
Understood, understood.

03:35:36.889 --> 03:35:38.930
We wanna get back to this is about a bid.

03:35:40.129 --> 03:35:41.209
Alderman Johnson.

03:35:41.770 --> 03:35:50.569
Do we have any bids at all of how much it would cost? Have we actually put it out for a bid how much it would cost to demolish that building?

03:35:50.569 --> 03:35:56.569
We've not, but what was our demolition, what was the, what did we just receive for two, the dry cleaner downtown?

03:35:56.569 --> 03:36:09.450
So the, yeah, the dry cleaner in the building next door that the city owns is going to cost a little over 1.2 million dollars to demo just those two buildings and they're not built anywhere close to the solidness of this structure.

03:36:09.450 --> 03:36:15.290
and I want to remind everyone when we got the 1.7 million dollars that was the by

03:36:15.290 --> 03:36:20.129
far largest award in the state of Illinois to take down any buildings they

03:36:20.129 --> 03:36:25.350
don't have grants of 10 million dollars to take down a building this size so the

03:36:25.350 --> 03:36:29.930
city will be footing the bill at some point along with a grant to take

03:36:29.930 --> 03:36:34.090
something like this down it's a very large cost here it's a complete concrete

03:36:34.090 --> 03:36:35.090
Johnson.

03:36:35.090 --> 03:36:41.850
Okay, so if there's no further questions, did you have another one, Alderman Johnson?

03:36:41.850 --> 03:36:48.329
The low bidder, that bid, they didn't include some information, can we not ask them for

03:36:48.329 --> 03:36:49.329
that information?

03:36:49.329 --> 03:36:51.489
No, that's not something we can do.

03:36:51.489 --> 03:36:56.329
We looked and actually, I looked into that matter with council and discussed it at length

03:36:56.329 --> 03:37:01.690
and we looked through our rules and regulations and it was determined that that's not, it's

03:37:01.690 --> 03:37:06.170
It's not fair to the, you know, during the open bidding, in an open bidding process,

03:37:06.170 --> 03:37:10.569
it wouldn't be fair to have everybody else submit a complete submittal.

03:37:10.569 --> 03:37:15.610
And this happens quite a bit where somebody forgets in a document and they can't come

03:37:15.610 --> 03:37:17.370
back later and submit it.

03:37:17.370 --> 03:37:22.649
That's common practice in not just Freeport, but any community, you know, we list out if

03:37:22.649 --> 03:37:27.209
there's 10 items you have to submit, you have to submit all 10 items or else you're thrown

03:37:27.209 --> 03:37:28.409
out of the open bid.

03:37:28.409 --> 03:37:29.409
Alderman Sellers?

03:37:29.409 --> 03:37:30.409
Yes.

03:37:30.409 --> 03:37:39.290
I just want to know, when all the fencing and everything is around, are we also going to have enough signs around it to keep out?

03:37:39.290 --> 03:37:45.690
Yes, we will have signs, no trespassing signs put up, and anything else necessary.

03:37:45.690 --> 03:37:49.129
Okay, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:37:49.129 --> 03:37:50.129
Stacy?

03:37:50.129 --> 03:37:51.129
No.

03:37:51.129 --> 03:37:52.129
Shadle?

03:37:52.129 --> 03:37:53.129
Aye.

03:37:53.129 --> 03:37:54.129
Sanders?

03:37:54.129 --> 03:37:55.129
Aye.

03:37:55.129 --> 03:37:56.129
Sellers?

03:37:56.129 --> 03:37:57.129
Aye.

03:37:57.129 --> 03:37:58.129
Klemm?

03:37:58.129 --> 03:37:59.129
Aye.

03:37:59.129 --> 03:38:00.129
Johnson?

03:38:00.129 --> 03:38:18.159
Simmons? Oh, I'm sorry, she's absent. And Parker? Aye. So we have 6 to 1 passes. Item

03:38:18.159 --> 03:38:26.879
number 29 is another bid. Could you please read this? Bid opening on August 1st, CD 010,

03:38:26.879 --> 03:38:27.879
Huffines.

03:38:27.879 --> 03:38:28.879
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

03:38:28.879 --> 03:38:42.440
So I have a couple of pictures coming up here shortly, but essentially what we have is Hanger

03:38:42.440 --> 03:38:50.440
D is at the Albertus Airport and it's quickly deteriorating building and it truly needs

03:38:50.440 --> 03:38:58.020
to be demolished and staff is going to self-perform this public works department will self-perform

03:38:58.020 --> 03:38:59.020
the demolition.

03:38:59.020 --> 03:39:04.600
However, asbestos abatement has to be done by a licensed contractor for that work and

03:39:04.600 --> 03:39:11.340
so staff put out a bid for asbestos abatement for hanger D at Alberta's airport and it was

03:39:11.340 --> 03:39:16.239
published in the journal standard on July 27th and the bid opening was held August 1st

03:39:16.239 --> 03:39:18.200
at 1015, and staff.

03:39:18.200 --> 03:39:21.879
West at 1015 and staff received bids from two contractors and the one contractor did

03:39:21.879 --> 03:39:29.840
not submit a bid bond as required and so therefore their bid was eliminated and the staff is

03:39:29.840 --> 03:39:34.600
recommending going with the lowest responsible bidder of environmental management services

03:39:34.600 --> 03:39:38.719
of Iowa and they submitted a bid of $27,750.

03:39:38.719 --> 03:39:41.280
Is there a motion to approve?

03:39:41.280 --> 03:39:42.280
So move.

03:39:42.280 --> 03:39:43.280
Second.

03:39:43.280 --> 03:39:46.159
made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

03:39:46.159 --> 03:39:47.520
Discussion on this bid.

03:39:48.440 --> 03:39:49.479
Alderman Sanders.

03:39:50.479 --> 03:39:52.340
I understand that bid,

03:39:55.239 --> 03:40:00.239
but there's an environmental issue with that bid.

03:40:03.120 --> 03:40:05.540
And what you're saying, they are certified

03:40:05.540 --> 03:40:12.040
to do the asbestos for demolition?

03:40:12.659 --> 03:40:13.500
Yes.

03:40:13.500 --> 03:40:14.500
Fowler.

03:40:14.500 --> 03:40:15.500
Yes.

03:40:15.500 --> 03:40:16.500
That was part of their submit it.

03:40:16.500 --> 03:40:19.860
They were required to submit their licenses as part of this bid.

03:40:19.860 --> 03:40:24.459
So when we opened it, and Clerk Anderson was a witness, can attest to it, had seen that

03:40:24.459 --> 03:40:26.860
they submitted their proper licensing.

03:40:26.860 --> 03:40:27.860
Okay.

03:40:27.860 --> 03:40:34.979
Any other city property have received any bids for demolition with asbestos?

03:40:34.979 --> 03:40:35.979
Okay.

03:40:35.979 --> 03:40:37.180
We're not going there.

03:40:37.180 --> 03:40:41.100
This is about this particular bid at the airport.

03:40:41.100 --> 03:40:42.700
Not all the other stuff.

03:40:42.700 --> 03:40:49.700
I don't like what you just said to me. You know what, you keep going in a direction that's not according to what is on. I'm talking about a bid.

03:40:49.700 --> 03:40:59.700
You just asked about a bid for the entire city. I don't care. So we were talking about a bid. What goes for one property goes for all property. Hangar D. Hangar D.

03:40:59.700 --> 03:41:08.700
Would you like to ask a question about Hangar D? Why are you directing my focus to just Hangar D? Because that's what the agenda is.

03:41:08.700 --> 03:41:11.700
Hanger D is not the only problem.

03:41:11.700 --> 03:41:13.920
It is the only thing that's on this bid.

03:41:13.920 --> 03:41:16.459
Okay. All right, Mayor.

03:41:16.459 --> 03:41:20.139
You are asserting yourself into-

03:41:20.139 --> 03:41:21.219
Is there any other discussion?

03:41:21.219 --> 03:41:24.180
If not, Madam Clerk, could you please take the role?

03:41:24.180 --> 03:41:25.260
You can't be doing that, Mayor.

03:41:25.260 --> 03:41:26.540
Stacy?

03:41:26.540 --> 03:41:27.500
Aye.

03:41:27.500 --> 03:41:28.340
Shadle?

03:41:28.340 --> 03:41:29.159
Aye.

03:41:29.159 --> 03:41:30.000
Sanders?

03:41:30.000 --> 03:41:30.840
No.

03:41:30.840 --> 03:41:31.659
Sellers?

03:41:31.659 --> 03:41:32.500
Aye.

03:41:32.500 --> 03:41:33.319
Klemm?

03:41:33.319 --> 03:41:34.159
Aye.

03:41:34.159 --> 03:41:34.979
Johnson?

03:41:34.979 --> 03:41:35.819
Aye.

03:41:35.819 --> 03:41:36.659
Simmons?

03:41:36.659 --> 03:41:37.479
Aye.

03:41:37.479 --> 03:41:38.319
And Parker?

03:41:38.319 --> 03:41:43.520
the motion passes seven to one item number 30 is another bid approval please read this

03:41:45.600 --> 03:41:54.760
bid opening on august 13th resurfacing of 18th avenue manager boyer thank you your honor

03:41:56.840 --> 03:42:01.239
recon corporation worked with the city of freeport to reach an agreement for the development of the

03:42:01.239 --> 03:42:07.079
solar field at the end of 18th avenue that's in the arcade as part of the agreement recon corporation

03:42:07.079 --> 03:42:12.879
was to assist with roadway improvements to 18th Avenue because the idea is there

03:42:12.879 --> 03:42:17.059
they'll be using 18th Avenue to do this the installation they'll be running

03:42:17.059 --> 03:42:22.079
trucks in and out of there and the road was somewhat deteriorated and the point

03:42:22.079 --> 03:42:26.200
is to restore the road once they're completed with the solar field project so

03:42:26.200 --> 03:42:32.639
as part of the agreement Recon Corporation will contribute $440,000

03:42:32.639 --> 03:42:36.280
toward improvements on 18th Avenue and provide the city of Freeport with

03:42:36.280 --> 03:42:41.280
with improvement plans prepared by Bowman for the improvements to 18th Avenue.

03:42:41.280 --> 03:42:46.959
A public bid opening was held on August 13th at 10 a.m. at City Freeport.

03:42:46.959 --> 03:42:51.799
City staff received three bids for the project, one from Martin and Company, one from Helm

03:42:51.799 --> 03:42:54.280
and Fisher's Excavating.

03:42:54.280 --> 03:43:01.600
Fisher's Excavating was the lowest responsible bidder at $511,212.00.

03:43:01.600 --> 03:43:07.120
Fisher Excavating is currently working on the 2025 city water and streets projects and has

03:43:07.120 --> 03:43:14.200
completed other street improvements within the city of Freeport with positive results.

03:43:14.200 --> 03:43:17.840
Project completion is estimated for October of 2025.

03:43:17.840 --> 03:43:22.799
This project is planned to be paid with the $440,000 in funds from the Solar Developer

03:43:22.799 --> 03:43:28.239
Recon Corporation with the remaining amount through local funds.

03:43:28.239 --> 03:43:32.159
it should be noted that $133,000 of Fisher's total bid

03:43:32.159 --> 03:43:34.840
is contingency for unsuitable soils

03:43:34.840 --> 03:43:36.860
that may be encountered during the construction.

03:43:36.860 --> 03:43:39.399
Staff recommends moving forward with the bid.

03:43:39.399 --> 03:43:40.479
Is there a motion to approve?

03:43:40.479 --> 03:43:41.319
So moved.

03:43:41.319 --> 03:43:42.159
Second.

03:43:42.159 --> 03:43:44.559
Motion made by Alderman Shadle,

03:43:44.559 --> 03:43:46.479
seconded by Alderman Sellers.

03:43:46.479 --> 03:43:47.860
Discussion on the bid.

03:43:48.959 --> 03:43:50.799
Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:43:50.799 --> 03:43:51.760
Stacy?

03:43:51.760 --> 03:43:52.959
Aye.

03:43:52.959 --> 03:43:53.799
Shadle?

03:43:53.799 --> 03:43:55.120
Aye.

03:43:55.120 --> 03:43:57.360
Sanders is absent, Sellers?

03:43:57.360 --> 03:44:08.159
Klemm, Johnson, Simmons, and Parker. The motion passes 7 to 0. Item number 31 is

03:44:08.159 --> 03:44:16.399
reports of department heads. Finance? Oh none tonight. Public Works? Byer? Yes thank

03:44:16.399 --> 03:44:20.940
you your honor. I know it's been a long meeting but I feel I have the need to

03:44:20.940 --> 03:44:26.639
acknowledge and recognize two of my paramedics from a job well done. On August

03:44:26.639 --> 03:44:27.639
Huffines.

03:44:27.639 --> 03:44:34.920
And then on August 14th, Ambulance One was dispatched for an elderly male who a gas station

03:44:34.920 --> 03:44:38.799
at Shell Gas Station in Glena, those folks thought something just isn't right with this

03:44:38.799 --> 03:44:39.799
gentleman.

03:44:39.799 --> 03:44:42.079
So, our paramedics responded there.

03:44:42.079 --> 03:44:47.479
They took the time to have a discussion with the gentleman, find out why he was in our

03:44:47.479 --> 03:44:55.840
area here, where he was from, and then they looked even further to gather his name and

03:44:55.840 --> 03:44:56.840
and his wife.

03:44:56.840 --> 03:44:57.840
They were a couple.

03:44:57.840 --> 03:44:58.840
They were going to have to call the police.

03:44:58.840 --> 03:44:59.840
They called the police and they were going to have to call the ambulance crew and they

03:44:59.840 --> 03:45:00.840
had to go to the federal police.

03:45:00.840 --> 03:45:01.840
They had to go to the police, they went to the police with their family members and they

03:45:01.840 --> 03:45:02.840
went to the ambulance crew.

03:45:02.840 --> 03:45:03.840
They made a phone number for family members so one of the paramedics phoned police dispatch,

03:45:03.840 --> 03:45:04.840
ran the gentleman's name.

03:45:04.840 --> 03:45:08.520
It turned out that he was endangered and missing from the city of Chicago for four or five

03:45:08.520 --> 03:45:09.520
days.

03:45:09.520 --> 03:45:14.040
He had no idea how he got out here, why he was here.

03:45:14.040 --> 03:45:16.139
So they checked him out.

03:45:16.139 --> 03:45:18.360
They phoned the gentleman's daughter.

03:45:18.360 --> 03:45:22.680
They were elated that he's finally been located and he's safe.

03:45:22.680 --> 03:45:28.200
the ambulance crew, Adam Holtz and Nathan Stepp transported the gentleman to the hospital

03:45:28.200 --> 03:45:33.440
just to be checked out and that's where the reunion of his family members took place.

03:45:33.440 --> 03:45:39.559
So 84 year old gentleman disoriented to know how he got to Freeport from city Chicago.

03:45:39.559 --> 03:45:45.239
So those turned out to be a good outcome for the gentleman and my paramedics.

03:45:45.239 --> 03:45:46.239
Thank you.

03:45:46.239 --> 03:45:47.239
Thank you.

03:45:47.239 --> 03:45:48.239
Police?

03:45:48.239 --> 03:45:50.239
Nothing from the police department.

03:45:50.239 --> 03:45:51.239
Thanks.

03:45:51.239 --> 03:45:52.239
Library?

03:45:52.239 --> 03:46:01.360
community development nothing tonight madam mayor IT airport city manager just

03:46:01.360 --> 03:46:07.319
one thing mayor I just want to reflect on the the wonderful work that was done on

03:46:07.319 --> 03:46:12.459
18th Avenue I know it was a kind of a the last thing on the agenda but that is

03:46:12.459 --> 03:46:19.159
one way the city was able to use our work with the various solar contractors

03:46:19.159 --> 03:46:23.600
to flip that around and turn that into new infrastructure. So I just want to

03:46:23.600 --> 03:46:27.000
thank all the staff that were involved with that negotiations. Excellent job.

03:46:27.000 --> 03:46:31.479
Then I just want to remind everyone about take advantage of the tire recycling if

03:46:31.479 --> 03:46:36.280
that's something that it could be helpful to you and then reminder of two

03:46:36.280 --> 03:46:40.479
events this weekend is Paint the Port is on Friday night as well as Eats and Beats

03:46:40.479 --> 03:46:45.200
is Friday night and Saturday night. So two great events in the downtown at the

03:46:45.200 --> 03:46:47.799
Cain, and the arty plaza and in the streets.

03:46:47.799 --> 03:46:48.959
Alderman Stacy?

03:46:48.959 --> 03:46:49.959
Nothing.

03:46:49.959 --> 03:46:51.200
Alderman Shadle?

03:46:51.200 --> 03:46:52.200
Yes.

03:46:52.200 --> 03:46:53.639
Thank you.

03:46:53.639 --> 03:47:01.840
Last week, the committee of the whole meeting there was mention made at public comment at

03:47:01.840 --> 03:47:11.200
the end that statements that myself and Director Steakil had made that were to quote lies,

03:47:11.200 --> 03:47:16.200
and it had to do with the lift station on Walnut Road.

03:47:18.000 --> 03:47:21.319
Our comments were that it has been talked about

03:47:21.319 --> 03:47:26.319
for two years and I just wanted to mention

03:47:27.239 --> 03:47:28.399
that I did a little digging

03:47:28.399 --> 03:47:30.000
and there was a Committee of the Whole meeting

03:47:30.000 --> 03:47:33.479
on Monday, January 9th of 2023

03:47:34.719 --> 03:47:37.680
where there was discussion regarding

03:47:37.680 --> 03:47:40.079
Walnut Lamb Road, Forest Main and Lift Station.

03:47:41.200 --> 03:47:50.639
and a week later on Tuesday, January 17th of 2023 it was passed to a resolution approving

03:47:50.639 --> 03:47:56.879
engineering agreement with Fehr Graham for design services. So that's all. Thank you.

03:47:56.879 --> 03:48:11.680
Sanders. On that particular note that I was just hearing with other issues, nothing has

03:48:11.680 --> 03:48:20.280
not been conformed completely. We have incomplete work that needs to be re-evaluated and to

03:48:20.280 --> 03:48:27.760
to be studied, and I don't care how many times we talk about the subject matter, it doesn't

03:48:27.760 --> 03:48:33.200
matter as long as we are understanding what it is that the city is trying to push the

03:48:33.200 --> 03:48:41.399
citizens of Freeport into, and we need to not only evaluate what council is doing, but

03:48:41.399 --> 03:48:49.639
we need to evaluate ourself as far as anything else, are we cohesive on any matter that the

03:48:49.639 --> 03:48:54.639
the city might have on the agenda and do we all conform

03:48:54.979 --> 03:48:58.760
together to come to a resolution of anything?

03:48:58.760 --> 03:49:00.879
And that's what I've been sitting here

03:49:00.879 --> 03:49:05.680
for over two years now and I watched, I learned,

03:49:05.680 --> 03:49:10.680
I figured out how the game is pretty much played

03:49:10.680 --> 03:49:15.680
and we need to change our thinking and this is why.

03:49:15.680 --> 03:49:44.110
and I have been thinking and this is why I don't know how many minutes I got but if you shut me down I'm gonna go up to the podium and talk some more but the thing is we need to relook at ourselves in the mirror every day to say are we doing this citizens of Freeport justice because I sit here and I listen to lies sometimes people flagrantly lie about things and don't come out and tell the

03:49:44.110 --> 03:49:46.270
I don't call no names, but the point of the matter

03:49:46.270 --> 03:49:47.829
is you know who you are.

03:49:47.829 --> 03:49:49.590
And if you're not serving the people

03:49:49.590 --> 03:49:52.049
of the city of Freeport, you should get off the council.

03:49:52.049 --> 03:49:54.389
You should go do something else with the rest of your time

03:49:54.389 --> 03:49:58.069
and die off into the wood and maybe grab a fishing pole

03:49:58.069 --> 03:50:00.909
or something like that and dwindle away

03:50:00.909 --> 03:50:01.870
the rest of your life.

03:50:01.870 --> 03:50:05.430
But this is how I feel at this point,

03:50:05.430 --> 03:50:07.709
and I'm quite sure a lot of our constituents

03:50:07.709 --> 03:50:09.129
feel the same way.

03:50:09.129 --> 03:50:13.209
Are we looking at, are we considering the people

03:50:13.209 --> 03:50:14.209
Miller.

03:50:14.209 --> 03:50:21.770
I feel that we're here, that voters us in here to make a decision-making, proper decision-making,

03:50:21.770 --> 03:50:25.770
you know, that's something that needs to be reevaluated amongst ourselves.

03:50:25.770 --> 03:50:28.250
And we should ask ourselves that same very question.

03:50:28.250 --> 03:50:32.829
And you're going to hear me talk about stuff like this on occasion when I feel that we're

03:50:32.829 --> 03:50:41.809
doing things that is not within, in the fines of the people, and people can criticize me

03:50:41.809 --> 03:50:42.809
Settlers.

03:50:42.809 --> 03:50:47.809
I don't care about none of that stuff.

03:50:47.809 --> 03:50:54.170
It's just the fact that am I talking to the people to gain their trust about whatever

03:50:54.170 --> 03:51:01.290
I learned that I will expose to them or divulge to them so they will be as educated as I am

03:51:01.290 --> 03:51:02.290
because I'm learning.

03:51:02.290 --> 03:51:07.090
I'm learning the ropes around here and we need to stop it.

03:51:07.090 --> 03:51:37.090
I would just like to say I know we had a lot of people that came in and was talking about you know the housing and the and the rents and all those things and I totally get it and I understand because I've been on both sides I've been a single mom renting and I've also been a landlord so I do understand but we have no control of what people charge on their rents that's just like if I wanted to sell my house I don't they can't

03:51:37.090 --> 03:51:39.450
can't tell me how much I can sell my house for.

03:51:39.450 --> 03:51:41.850
So I do understand and my heart goes out

03:51:41.850 --> 03:51:44.270
because I hate that it's happening.

03:51:44.270 --> 03:51:47.950
But we as city council, we cannot tell people

03:51:47.950 --> 03:51:49.409
what they can charge for rent.

03:51:49.409 --> 03:51:52.229
And my heart goes out to everybody.

03:51:52.229 --> 03:51:54.530
But like I said, I've been on both sides.

03:51:54.530 --> 03:51:57.670
I've been a single mom renting and I've been a landlord.

03:51:57.670 --> 03:52:02.329
So I just wanted everybody to know that we do have,

03:52:02.329 --> 03:52:04.610
we have compassion on what's going on,

03:52:04.610 --> 03:52:06.229
but we have no control.

03:52:07.090 --> 03:52:10.850
Coleman, Clem, I agree 100% with Joy. Thank you.

03:52:12.209 --> 03:52:19.010
Coleman, Johnson, my heart also does go out for those um that they've raised their rent on. It's

03:52:19.010 --> 03:52:26.530
a horrible thing. Um also wanted to remind um second ward we have neighborhood watch meeting

03:52:26.530 --> 03:52:30.690
at 3002 Farmedale Lane at 6 30 p.m on Thursday evening.

03:52:30.690 --> 03:52:37.010
Orman-Simmons? Orman-Parker? Yes, just a reminder, we have our neighborhood watch

03:52:37.010 --> 03:52:48.750
next Monday night at 6 o'clock. That concludes to public comment, okay?

03:52:48.750 --> 03:52:56.629
Oh, yeah, wait one second. I'm so sorry. She was, though, Mayor. She, well, I'm sorry, Akiya.

03:52:56.629 --> 03:52:59.770
Miller.

03:52:59.770 --> 03:53:09.889
I have an email from Carol Krupke.

03:53:09.889 --> 03:53:14.209
I've lived in Freeport my entire life and I've lived in my current location for almost

03:53:14.209 --> 03:53:15.209
22 years.

03:53:15.209 --> 03:53:18.450
I've lived here for so long because it's what I can afford.

03:53:18.450 --> 03:53:23.090
While at the moment I am not one of the people who are being threatened with rent increases,

03:53:23.090 --> 03:53:27.729
I would still like the members of the council, Mayor Miller, and whoever else is necessary

03:53:27.729 --> 03:53:29.469
Bain, Mark, and

03:53:29.469 --> 03:53:30.469
M.S.

03:53:30.469 --> 03:53:31.469
E.

03:53:31.469 --> 03:53:32.469
H.

03:53:32.469 --> 03:53:33.469
C.

03:53:33.469 --> 03:53:34.469
R.

03:53:34.469 --> 03:53:35.469
A.

03:53:35.469 --> 03:53:36.469
A.

03:53:36.469 --> 03:53:37.469
C.

03:53:37.469 --> 03:53:38.469
R.

03:53:38.469 --> 03:53:39.469
A.

03:53:39.469 --> 03:53:40.469
A.

03:53:40.469 --> 03:53:41.469
A.

03:53:41.469 --> 03:53:42.469
A.

03:53:42.469 --> 03:53:43.469
A.

03:53:43.469 --> 03:53:44.469
A.

03:53:44.469 --> 03:53:45.469
A.

03:53:45.469 --> 03:53:46.469
A.

03:53:46.469 --> 03:53:47.469
A.

03:53:47.469 --> 03:53:48.469
A.

03:53:48.469 --> 03:53:49.469
A.

03:53:49.469 --> 03:53:50.469
A.

03:53:50.469 --> 03:53:51.469
A.

03:53:51.469 --> 03:53:56.819
A.

03:53:56.819 --> 03:53:57.819
A.

03:53:57.819 --> 03:53:58.819
A.

03:53:58.819 --> 03:53:59.819
A.

03:53:59.819 --> 03:54:00.819
A.

03:54:00.819 --> 03:54:01.819
A.

03:54:31.819 --> 03:54:32.819
Miller.

03:54:32.819 --> 03:54:38.360
I think the crime rate is going to go anywhere but up.

03:54:38.360 --> 03:54:42.299
This is going to affect more than every, not just these guys.

03:54:42.299 --> 03:54:47.379
They might move next door, down the street, around the corner from all of you, opposed

03:54:47.379 --> 03:54:51.520
to the ones that, let's say, let's see the home rule benefited that you guys don't have

03:54:51.520 --> 03:54:55.639
to live here anymore, or say, or whatever you do.

03:54:55.639 --> 03:55:00.379
And that means that you guys can't use home rule to benefit the community, but you can

03:55:00.379 --> 03:55:04.020
Miller, Wayne, you can use it to say that Mayor Miller doesn't have to live here, Wayne

03:55:04.020 --> 03:55:09.159
don't have to live here, you guys can use it for all of that.

03:55:09.159 --> 03:55:13.440
And I'm so tired, let's get on another topic, I'm so tired of hearing shovel-ready sites.

03:55:13.440 --> 03:55:14.899
Nobody is coming here.

03:55:14.899 --> 03:55:18.440
Is this, you gotta be rocking, nobody is coming here.

03:55:18.440 --> 03:55:21.920
This is a public online meeting and it looks a mess.

03:55:21.920 --> 03:55:26.940
We got Darren impersonate himself as FHA worker, we got Wayne tearing down the city for no

03:55:26.940 --> 03:55:32.940
and I. And we got a bunch of neighborhood watch meetings and ain't nothing getting watched.

03:55:32.940 --> 03:55:37.860
I'm just trying to figure this out. This ain't rocket science, man. Dig in and do the due

03:55:37.860 --> 03:55:44.780
diligence for the community or like he said, get up and move around. You have something

03:55:44.780 --> 03:55:53.780
to do. You have a job to do. You work for us. They, Rob, he don't, he's such a nonchalant

03:55:53.780 --> 03:55:54.780
Fowler.

03:55:54.780 --> 03:55:55.780
You don't care about nothing.

03:55:55.780 --> 03:55:56.780
Nothing.

03:55:56.780 --> 03:55:58.819
You have proved that so many times.

03:55:58.819 --> 03:56:01.979
You have to be inviting to walk up to.

03:56:01.979 --> 03:56:02.979
Nobody wants to talk to you.

03:56:02.979 --> 03:56:06.700
You sit up there like an angry ball right now because you get your name wrung out.

03:56:06.700 --> 03:56:10.940
You get read every time somebody says something that you want to speak on.

03:56:10.940 --> 03:56:12.360
You have to be approachable.

03:56:12.360 --> 03:56:14.100
Nobody wants to talk to you, bro.

03:56:14.100 --> 03:56:15.659
That's just period.

03:56:15.659 --> 03:56:21.579
You have to be approachable, not have an attitude when somebody asks you a question that you

03:56:21.579 --> 03:56:22.579
have to repeat.

03:56:22.579 --> 03:56:23.579
Repeat it.

03:56:23.579 --> 03:56:49.670
Next. My name is Cheryl Altman. My question is, why is Wayne getting, well, for 16 hours at $62.50 an hour? That is three to four times more than what an average person makes in this town, and it's a shame, but you guys voted for that. You're wrong.

03:56:49.670 --> 03:56:52.850
also 2.1 million dollars for Pretzel City Transit.

03:56:53.389 --> 03:56:59.590
It's three dollars in town each way. Out of town, it's six dollars each way.

03:57:00.510 --> 03:57:05.829
But the worst thing is you forgot to mention that all those vans and buses are given to the city of Freeport for free.

03:57:06.549 --> 03:57:13.739
And then not even to mention all their donations because I used to drive the bus.

03:57:14.579 --> 03:57:18.860
I could bring in $400 in donations every two weeks. Easy.

03:57:18.860 --> 03:57:19.860
Huffines.

03:57:19.860 --> 03:57:23.530
So where's that money?

03:57:23.530 --> 03:57:26.090
The worst part is you're making that money and you've got people out here who are ready

03:57:26.090 --> 03:57:28.090
to strike but you won't give them a raise.

03:57:28.090 --> 03:57:30.489
For shame on you guys.

03:57:30.489 --> 03:57:35.510
And next, Wayne, you say that you walked through all these buildings, wrong.

03:57:35.510 --> 03:57:38.729
You made me get an engineer, a structural engineer.

03:57:38.729 --> 03:57:43.370
You didn't like what you said because you said my building was structurally sound more

03:57:43.370 --> 03:57:45.229
than most.

03:57:45.229 --> 03:57:48.450
But yet you sit there and going to bash and tear my place down?

03:57:48.450 --> 03:57:51.930
You've got the roofs are falling in on the rally building.

03:57:51.930 --> 03:57:52.930
You've got freaking trees.

03:57:52.930 --> 03:57:56.969
Plus, you already got a $500,000 grant for that place.

03:57:56.969 --> 03:57:59.250
So what you do with that?

03:57:59.250 --> 03:58:02.450
And why are we getting Elbers and sons?

03:58:02.450 --> 03:58:04.809
Because Mayor Miller, you're related to them.

03:58:04.809 --> 03:58:06.969
Your mom was an Elber.

03:58:06.969 --> 03:58:09.090
That's a conflict of interest.

03:58:09.090 --> 03:58:14.049
You have your nieces, matter of fact, I got a picture with you and Sherry at her nephew's

03:58:14.049 --> 03:58:15.049
Huffines.

03:58:15.049 --> 03:58:16.049
Next.

03:58:16.049 --> 03:58:49.280
Hello, I just want to introduce myself and talk a little bit about what's going on and

03:58:49.280 --> 03:58:52.120
see what we all can do to come together and help.

03:58:52.120 --> 03:58:56.680
My name is Jocelyn. I'm a mother and a long time Freeport resident and someone who is

03:58:56.680 --> 03:59:00.879
now along with many others fighting just to keep a roof over our family's heads. First,

03:59:00.879 --> 03:59:04.639
I do want to thank you Mayor Miller for responding to my previous emails and suggesting that

03:59:04.639 --> 03:59:09.520
I fill out the inspection request form here at City Hall. I do appreciate the acknowledgement

03:59:09.520 --> 03:59:13.959
and the apology for my hardship, but respectfully, sympathy does nothing to-

03:59:13.959 --> 03:59:42.000
Pied Piper Realty has taken over properties once managed by Chapman Properties and others, creating a monopoly of sorts. Many of us are now being told to sign new fixed term leases within seven days or face a 30-day notice to vacate. The rent increases are as high as 50%. These are not proposed numbers. These are actually happening. Some families are seeing jumps in rent from $650,000 to $650,000.

04:00:12.000 --> 04:00:13.000
Huffines.

04:00:13.000 --> 04:00:33.639
I'm here to ask you to act and urgently.

04:00:33.639 --> 04:00:38.639
Some things that you can do are pass a local ordinance requiring 60 or 90 days to notice

04:00:38.639 --> 04:00:41.979
before significant rent increases or lease terminations.

04:00:41.979 --> 04:00:46.540
Also you could conduct immediate inspections of properties with sharp rent hikes to ensure

04:00:46.540 --> 04:00:50.739
that they meet health and safety codes, especially for any property raising rent by more than

04:00:50.739 --> 04:00:52.139
10%.

04:00:52.139 --> 04:00:55.739
You could even host a public forum with tenants and landlords so our voices are heard and

04:00:55.739 --> 04:01:00.020
to hopefully avoid the lack of actions done by landlords to help tenants with what matters

04:01:00.020 --> 04:01:02.180
to those living in these properties.

04:01:02.180 --> 04:01:06.540
My last suggestion is to pass a resolution urging the state of Illinois to lift the rent

04:01:06.540 --> 04:01:09.579
control ban and return the power to cities like ours.

04:01:09.579 --> 04:01:11.180
I'm not asking for special treatment.

04:01:11.180 --> 04:01:13.860
I'm asking for fairness for families, seniors,

04:01:13.860 --> 04:01:16.340
and working people who just want to stay in their homes,

04:01:16.340 --> 04:01:18.819
especially as we send our children back to school.

04:01:18.819 --> 04:01:21.420
We deserve better than the, we deserve better

04:01:21.420 --> 04:01:23.899
than to be pushed out of the city that we've helped build.

04:01:23.899 --> 04:01:25.219
Thank you.

04:01:25.219 --> 04:01:26.059
Thank you.

04:01:26.059 --> 04:01:26.899
Anyone else?

04:01:26.899 --> 04:01:40.520
Anyone else?

04:01:40.520 --> 04:01:42.360
Giving me this opportunity.

04:01:43.319 --> 04:01:46.719
I noticed I've never been here to a meeting before.

04:01:46.719 --> 04:01:48.280
Can you state your name, please?

04:01:48.280 --> 04:01:50.479
Ernestine Etman.

04:01:50.479 --> 04:01:52.639
I've never been here to a meeting before.

04:01:52.639 --> 04:01:55.239
I've watched you guys sometime on TV,

04:01:56.159 --> 04:02:00.239
but I didn't notice that you have prayer before you begin.

04:02:00.239 --> 04:02:03.290
Is that right?

04:02:03.290 --> 04:02:05.989
I am a believer in Christ.

04:02:07.450 --> 04:02:09.649
I don't know what's gonna happen from this day

04:02:09.649 --> 04:02:12.930
because my heart is just so heavy right now

04:02:12.930 --> 04:02:17.729
after seeing all those comments of people

04:02:17.729 --> 04:02:19.450
that it's gonna have to leave

04:02:19.450 --> 04:02:26.469
from where they're living right now because they can't afford it and I just

04:02:26.469 --> 04:02:30.370
want to say I'm not going to talk too long but I want to say this to all of

04:02:30.370 --> 04:02:36.889
you I stayed I stayed and I listened to all that you guys had to say and those

04:02:36.889 --> 04:02:43.610
some important things but to me right now what's most important is not seeing

04:02:43.610 --> 04:02:44.610
Huffines.

04:02:44.610 --> 04:03:03.219
I want to see all of you do more than what you're doing.

04:03:03.219 --> 04:03:08.780
I know you may not can pull a string here or there, but it is something you can do as

04:03:08.780 --> 04:03:11.100
our leaders in this community.

04:03:11.100 --> 04:03:13.299
And I want to say this and I'm done.

04:03:13.299 --> 04:03:21.739
I know that none of you are in these positions because somebody just voted you in.

04:03:21.739 --> 04:03:26.659
I know that the God of heaven allowed you to be in these positions.

04:03:26.659 --> 04:03:31.379
And He expects you to do what you're supposed to do.

04:03:31.379 --> 04:03:35.780
This is not going to be good for nobody in the city of Freeport.

04:03:35.780 --> 04:03:42.100
There's a lot of families, a lot, that has been hurt by this.

04:03:42.100 --> 04:03:45.659
and so in the days to come you're going to feel it.

04:03:45.659 --> 04:03:49.579
We might feel it, but you're going to feel it too.

04:03:49.579 --> 04:03:55.819
And I want you to keep that in your mind that you're not here just because somebody voted

04:03:55.819 --> 04:03:56.819
you in.

04:03:56.819 --> 04:03:59.659
You're here because God put you here.

04:03:59.659 --> 04:04:03.280
Thank you.

04:04:03.280 --> 04:04:04.280
Anyone else?

04:04:04.280 --> 04:04:19.559
Hi, my name is Sue Cook, Winchester Drive.

04:04:19.559 --> 04:04:30.639
I was home and I was watching online and thought, no, no, no. There are children, there were

04:04:30.639 --> 04:04:45.950
children standing here begging for their home in Freeport. We've never been a distressed

04:04:45.950 --> 04:04:53.709
city before. Don, you know that. This city was flourishing and beautiful and huge and

04:04:53.709 --> 04:04:59.149
Good, and there were homes and places for people.

04:04:59.149 --> 04:05:04.069
There were not children standing in front of the City Council

04:05:04.069 --> 04:05:09.440
begging for their homes.

04:05:09.440 --> 04:05:11.600
I know you can't do anything with the landlords.

04:05:11.600 --> 04:05:12.920
You can talk to them.

04:05:12.920 --> 04:05:14.440
I know you can talk to them, Rob.

04:05:14.440 --> 04:05:17.239
I know you can.

04:05:17.239 --> 04:05:25.579
You may not be able to tell them where, excuse me, to put

04:05:25.579 --> 04:05:30.180
or how much to charge, but you can keep the kids

04:05:30.180 --> 04:05:33.440
and these people in their homes.

04:05:33.440 --> 04:05:35.899
You can, you're powerful.

04:05:35.899 --> 04:05:39.280
You cannot say that you're a pastor

04:05:39.280 --> 04:05:43.069
and not be able to do this.

04:05:43.069 --> 04:05:44.889
You are powerful.

04:05:44.889 --> 04:05:47.430
You are the city of Freeport council.

04:05:47.430 --> 04:05:52.290
You are powerful and Freeport cannot be distressed.

04:05:53.889 --> 04:05:56.290
And here we stand distressed.

04:05:56.290 --> 04:05:58.889
The second thing, for God's sakes,

04:05:58.889 --> 04:06:01.129
for the people that are disabled in this town,

04:06:01.129 --> 04:06:03.250
don't take 911 away from them.

04:06:03.250 --> 04:06:05.170
Rob, give them the five bucks.

04:06:05.170 --> 04:06:08.819
Five bucks are a life.

04:06:08.819 --> 04:06:10.379
Five bucks are a life.

04:06:11.299 --> 04:06:13.379
It could be my husband, it could be me,

04:06:13.379 --> 04:06:15.620
it could be Cece, it could be the mayor.

04:06:17.399 --> 04:06:19.780
We've had head-ons.

04:06:19.780 --> 04:06:23.479
Here I am crying, I'm sorry, I'm really sorry.

04:06:23.479 --> 04:06:25.219
But we've had head-ons.

04:06:25.219 --> 04:06:29.020
We've had multiple head-ons.

04:06:29.020 --> 04:06:31.180
I've driven that road.

04:06:31.180 --> 04:06:34.420
I've had to drive off the road to avoid head-ons.

04:06:34.420 --> 04:06:39.219
Guys, we can't have no 911 in Freeport.

04:06:39.219 --> 04:06:43.260
We can't have roads where our cars go into the potholes,

04:06:43.260 --> 04:06:46.459
and we have to pay $3,200 for an undercarriage,

04:06:46.459 --> 04:06:48.579
which has happened.

04:06:48.579 --> 04:06:50.420
We can't be distressed, and we can't

04:06:50.420 --> 04:06:52.420
let kids be out on the street, and these people

04:06:52.420 --> 04:06:53.139
lose their homes.

04:06:53.139 --> 04:06:56.780
we just can't because we're free port.

04:06:56.780 --> 04:06:58.540
We never were distressed, Jodi.

04:06:59.540 --> 04:07:01.020
Excuse me, Mayor Miller.

04:07:01.020 --> 04:07:03.360
We never were distressed.

04:07:03.360 --> 04:07:04.760
We never were distressed.

04:07:05.739 --> 04:07:07.639
We don't have to be distressed now.

04:07:08.899 --> 04:07:10.659
Thank you for letting me stand here and cry.

04:07:10.659 --> 04:07:11.760
I'm very sorry.

04:07:13.040 --> 04:07:14.420
Anyone else?

04:07:14.420 --> 04:07:17.159
Yeah, I'd like to make a public comment.

04:07:17.159 --> 04:07:18.680
Well, then you have to get up to the podium.

04:07:18.680 --> 04:07:19.520
Do I?

04:07:20.500 --> 04:07:22.299
You wanna speak as a citizen.

04:07:22.299 --> 04:08:00.579
I feel the compassion of those that are in distress. And if we have a heart or any empathy

04:08:00.579 --> 04:08:10.139
for what the community brought to us tonight, we should look, like I said earlier, we should

04:08:10.139 --> 04:08:15.139
Conform as council people for the greater good of the people.

04:08:15.239 --> 04:08:20.239
We should conform to come together on a topic issue

04:08:20.620 --> 04:08:21.940
that is hurting folk.

04:08:21.940 --> 04:08:25.360
If it's hurting people within our community,

04:08:25.360 --> 04:08:29.840
we should stand up and lend our voice to all of the causes

04:08:29.840 --> 04:08:34.000
and distress and the anxiety that folks are going through

04:08:34.000 --> 04:08:37.139
because of this one particular issue.

04:08:37.139 --> 04:08:43.700
I like to see us all gather together, have an executive meeting on issues.

04:08:43.700 --> 04:08:50.379
It doesn't have to be an executive, it could be the whole force of the City of Freeport.

04:08:50.379 --> 04:08:59.219
Having a common cause to rectify something that we have, as they say, the power we have

04:08:59.219 --> 04:09:04.739
to come together to help folk who are having issues.

04:09:04.739 --> 04:09:10.100
My heart went out, I'm like this woman, I'm about to shed tears because of what we're

04:09:10.100 --> 04:09:12.059
lack of doing.

04:09:12.059 --> 04:09:31.639
We have avenues, we have pathways, we have areas that we can go into to seek out whatever

04:09:31.639 --> 04:09:39.040
it is that our community needs and the fact that they don't know, they're not educated

04:09:39.040 --> 04:09:49.559
to finding these programs and we're not lending our opportunity to help establish any programs

04:09:49.559 --> 04:09:51.120
that actually help people.

04:09:51.120 --> 04:09:58.520
I have not heard anything from our council that talks about a program that can benefit

04:09:58.520 --> 04:10:04.040
everyone that has a desire to want to better themselves in this community.

04:10:04.040 --> 04:10:09.040
I don't wanna see people talking about I'm gonna be homeless.

04:10:09.040 --> 04:10:11.319
How do you come to the Council of Freeport

04:10:11.319 --> 04:10:13.680
and someone standing before you talking about

04:10:13.680 --> 04:10:18.000
I'm losing everything and I don't have no place to go?

04:10:18.000 --> 04:10:20.120
How could we just sit in our seat

04:10:20.120 --> 04:10:22.280
and after we adjourn tonight,

04:10:22.280 --> 04:10:25.280
have no way of talking to one another,

04:10:25.280 --> 04:10:28.040
calling each other up, say hey, we need to get up,

04:10:28.040 --> 04:10:31.479
we need to have a hall, a town hall meeting

04:10:31.479 --> 04:10:38.479
or some form or something to talk about that helps to help people.

04:10:38.479 --> 04:10:43.799
I'm talking, and if there's something like that going on, everybody should be involved.

04:10:43.799 --> 04:10:44.799
Your time has expired.

04:10:44.799 --> 04:10:45.799
I know that.

04:10:45.799 --> 04:10:46.799
Thank you.

04:10:46.799 --> 04:10:47.799
I hear you.

04:10:47.799 --> 04:10:48.799
Anyone else?

04:10:48.799 --> 04:10:49.799
Cecelia?

04:10:49.799 --> 04:10:51.479
May I do it from here?

04:10:51.479 --> 04:10:54.399
Yes, I think that would be an exception.

04:10:54.399 --> 04:10:58.040
You know, I don't know what we can do.

04:10:58.040 --> 04:11:01.280
I know that there's things that we have to do.

04:11:01.280 --> 04:11:05.760
I know that there's apartments out there

04:11:07.520 --> 04:11:12.520
that's not worth half of what they were already charging.

04:11:13.100 --> 04:11:17.079
And to go up double is ridiculous.

04:11:17.079 --> 04:11:19.159
But as renters, you have rights.

04:11:20.840 --> 04:11:24.239
And you had a right, I don't know,

04:11:24.239 --> 04:11:27.000
we might need inspectors to come in

04:11:27.000 --> 04:11:30.639
and look at these houses because they have to be valued.

04:11:31.280 --> 04:11:36.079
at a level to be charged what they're charging.

04:11:36.079 --> 04:11:41.079
And so I don't know what we can or can't do.

04:11:41.219 --> 04:11:45.440
I'm gonna find out what we can or can't do.

04:11:45.440 --> 04:11:47.680
But one thing I know how to do and that's pray.

04:11:47.680 --> 04:11:50.840
So Father God, in the name of Jesus,

04:11:51.920 --> 04:11:58.020
hear the hearts and the cries of your people.

04:11:58.020 --> 04:12:01.379
Father God, make a way out of no way.

04:12:01.379 --> 04:12:13.340
we're looking to you for a miracle yeah you change is not so just like you fed

04:12:13.340 --> 04:12:23.659
many with five fish and two loaves of bread I'm asking you to work a miracle in

04:12:23.659 --> 04:12:37.190
this city on behalf of these your children your people help us as a council

04:12:37.190 --> 04:12:38.190
Winslow.

04:12:38.190 --> 04:12:43.389
To do any and everything we can do to make that difference.

04:12:43.389 --> 04:12:48.069
To show ourselves strong.

04:12:48.069 --> 04:12:57.920
To show the value we have and the value that we carry.

04:12:57.920 --> 04:13:03.760
Give us the words to say and the ability to do what needs to be done.

04:13:03.760 --> 04:13:12.680
And we'll be sure to give you all honor, glory, and praise in advance for victory is ours.

04:13:12.680 --> 04:13:17.680
and I stand on that, in Jesus' name, Amen.

04:13:18.319 --> 04:13:20.739
Is there any other public comments?

04:13:20.739 --> 04:13:22.600
I'll entertain a motion for adjournment.

04:13:22.600 --> 04:13:25.149
So moved.

04:13:25.149 --> 04:13:25.989
Second.

04:13:25.989 --> 04:13:27.950
We have a motion made by Shadle, seconded by Parker.

04:13:27.950 --> 04:13:29.950
All those in favor signify by saying aye.

04:13:29.950 --> 04:13:31.149
Aye.

04:13:31.149 --> 04:13:31.989
Good night.