WEBVTT

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Good evening. Evelyn, could you please give the invocation?

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Shall we bow our heads? Dear Father God, as we open another city council meeting, we open

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with the guidance of your Holy Spirit. Father, as each discussion takes place, we ask that

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Fowler.

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Each council member will keep in mind who they are representing and who elected them.

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Your eyes see everything and your ears are open to every word spoken here tonight, regardless

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of who is saying it.

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Father, surround each council member who desires to serve the city with godly wisdom and integrity

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to do what is right in your sight for all the people for the city of Freeport.

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We have to pray for those in authority so we can lead a quiet and peaceful life in godliness

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and reverence to you, Father.

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This is good and it's acceptable in your sight.

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In the name above all names, Jesus Christ Messiah.

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Amen.

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Thank you, Evelyn.

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So now we'll officially call this meeting to order.

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Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

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Mayor Miller?

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Here.

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Clem, Johnson, Simmons, Absent, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers.

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Alderman Parker the meeting is yours the approval of the agenda SOMO second all

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in favor aye anybody opposed excuse me was that Clem Shadle lemon Shadle yes

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that's okay number five approval of the minutes from the committee of a whole

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meeting held on April 14, 2025. Have a motion? Approve. Second. Shadle and Sellers? All in favor say aye. Aye. Anybody opposed? Thank you. Public comments or is none? Number seven, recognition of service award presented by Lieutenant Dykema for Patrolman Richard McEmo. Is that right?

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in the service of the Freeport Police Department,

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which actually started in the Auxiliary Police Department

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in 2007.

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He was hired full-time in 2015.

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He's being hired as an FTO, a field training officer.

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He's been part of the Emergency Response Team.

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He's a member of our gang unit when it first got started.

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He's been a firearms instructor.

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He's completed lead homicide training.

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He's a member of the state library and narcotics team.

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He's currently one of our K-9 officers with his partner, K-9DK.

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Just going through his file, he's done a great job.

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He's got a lot of letters of recommendation for him.

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He stays on patrol.

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He stays in the slant unit.

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And even several citizens are recommended to send him for what he did for them while working here.

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So congratulations on 10 years.

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Dovie, would you note that Alden Simmons? Thank you. Okay, number eight, presentation

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of the Illinois Section Water, American Water Works, Water Ambassador Award

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presented by Shawna Richardson. Good evening, I'm Seth Gronewald. I'm here on

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behalf of the Illinois Section of the American Water Works Association and

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and this is Kaylee Spain.

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She is an education and government affairs specialist

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for the section.

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And we're here tonight to honor the city of Freeport

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for receiving the Gold Ambassador Water Award.

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Just as a quick little overview of what ISAWW is,

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the Illinois section, American Water Works Association

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provides resources for education

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of safe and sustainable water.

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We have 2,400 members across the state

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and over 50,000 members in our association globally.

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The ISA-WWA Water Ambassador Program was created

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to elevate public perception, knowledge

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and consumer education of the water industry.

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The program aims to accomplish these goals

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by presenting a new communication platform

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of educational and promotional content

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in a manner that is relevant, engaging

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and consistent among participants.

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How it works, participating members can access

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Water Education Tools as well as content from the ISA-WWA website and then communicate to

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their community through social media, website postings, bill inserts, newsletters, tours,

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community events, schools, etc.

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So the program certification, there are three different levels, bronze, silver, and gold

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recognition.

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This year we're really excited to honor today two of the water systems and for the work

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So, we'd just like to take a minute, communications director, Bryan Bridge, and our environmental

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Compliance Officer, Randy Kolbauer, put together a short video presentation on our water quality

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and our newest water facility that we'd like to share tonight.

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The video may be a hair glitchy on this presentation, but it'll be posted on the website tomorrow

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for the whole community.

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Okay.

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Number nine, presentation of 40 Days of Peace, presented by William Brown, High Hope reporter.

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Good evening council members, mayor, city managers, staff, fire chief.

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So my name is William Brown.

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I along with my wife are the founders, High Hope Freeport.

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High Hope Freeport, our mission is to, through community building and unity, cause a reduction

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in community violence.

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What I want to present to you today is the outline for the 40 Days of Peace and Community

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Building.

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Each council member should have an outline of what the 40 Days of Peace and Community

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Building is.

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We recognize in Freeport, like most small cities, that there's been an increase in community violence, specifically in youth-led violence, right. So, in that, it's interchangeable things, which is economic sustainability, limited awareness and access to mental health and trauma-informed services, and we recognize that there's been an increase in youth-led violence.

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Services, lack of safe, engaging environments for our youth, and a deep need for real connection

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and free port.

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So in order to truly address this community violence, we have to look at the root causes

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of community violence, which is financial instability, job placement, generational trauma,

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generational support systems, lack of spaces, cycles of retaliation, and unaddressed mental

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Fowler.

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Our response to this, High Hope Freeport's response to this is simple, but powerful.

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We want to present Beautifying the Block, where we go out into our High Hope, Identify High

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Hope communities, and we clean up those communities.

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We also have our Shoot Hoops and Knock Guns tournaments that offer positive outlets for

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our young people.

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We also have Church in the Streets that brings faith back into our high hope communities.

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We also have the resource block parties.

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It's been a lot said to those that choose to sit behind a Facebook app and type out what

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our resource block parties are and choose to ignore the idea that they are our resources.

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So in our resource block parties, there will be resources that we will bring to those block

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and

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John.

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We have a lot of these outside of bouncy houses. Right?

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And if each council member look, there is an outline of our

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community resource partners, they also will be broadening on

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that and we'll have a larger scope of it.

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Also at those resource block parties, it will be community

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surveys to take real data from those that live in those

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We going to? That data will be collected and it will be used as an evaluation tool to measure

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the outcome and the impact of the 40 Days of Peace and Community Building. Along with that,

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it will give us the information we need to connect the individuals in our high hold communities

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with the community partner resources that can fulfill the needs that they have. At the

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very center of the 40 Days of Peace and Community Building is community building.

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It's been a lot of divisiveness, particularly in this chamber.

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Normally, I don't respond to any social media combat or anything that's posted about High

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Hope Freeport, because honestly, I could care less what anybody think about me that's not

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out there doing the work.

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But it's been, continuously, High Hope Freeport, the Faith Leaders for Peace have been continuously

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attacked.

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Today, that stops.

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and when I say attack, I'm preferring specifically to Ms. Wendy Pearson and Mr. Joshua Atkins.

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How Hope Freeport was founded by me and my wife. How Hope Freeport does not belong to

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Jodi Miller. How Hope Freeport belongs to us, the founders, our board and the community

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of Freeport. The 40 Days of Peace and Community Building Initiative is not funded by the

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Mayor Jodi Miller or the city. FHN, M45 Marketing, Walmart, Faith Center are our sponsors along with t-shirt fundraising and community donations. Let's get that clear. Also, let's share some hard truths. Not one person in this council or in this community can predict when someone is gonna shoot a bullet. Not one initiative

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Not one plan will help us resolve the community violence problem that we have.

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What will is unity. I'm going to change the culture today and let that tone be set.

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On my shirt you see it says pushing peace in the port. That is what I hope Freeport is about.

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Pushing peace in Freeport. The collective way that we get peace in Freeport is unity in Freeport.

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The divisiveness, the politicalness, it shouldn't be attached with peace.

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This narrative that is being pushed here, again, by Ms. Wendy William,

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Wendy Pearson, and Joshua Atkins, has tend to troll over into the youth.

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I mentor youth at Banks-Beginner Alternative School.

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I will share this with you, cuz for him it was a teachable moment.

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Brown. While attending his basketball game at the Boys and Girls Club, he brought the

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flyer that I had a young people passing out, right? He's 16. I was there attending the

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game. He was officiating and two more of my young people were there to support their siblings.

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I showed up for them. He brought this to me and said, Mr. Brown, while we were passing

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this out I took one home. My mother saw it and said that Wendy Pearson and Joshua

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Akin said is a joke. He proceeded to pull his phone out and show me her

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performing in this chamber, point to Mayor Miller saying it was a joke. On this,

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it says high hope Freeport. It doesn't say Mayor Miller. We work with the faith

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and Mayor Miller, yes. I won't shy away from that. Because my goal and my plan here is

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to support the youth. That's what I'm about. Saving our youth from making mistakes that

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will lead them to prison for the rest of their life or lead them to taking somebody else's

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life. And when anybody, I don't care your stature, what you think you are in the community,

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and who you think you are in the community.

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Threatened to poison a man of our youth.

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I want the smoke.

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I'ma show up for that.

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I proceeded to tell this young man,

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I guided him to highhopefreeport.com website.

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On that website, I took him to that first Peace March,

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and I showed him pictures of Wendy Pearson

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at that Peace March.

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So for her to think it was a joke,

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maybe it wasn't an opportunity for her to grab attention.

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I also further went to show him that former,

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that Joshua Atkins during his former election campaign

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also had photos from Howe Freeport Peace March

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as his way of addressing crime.

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The teachable moment in that was for me to teach him

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about emotional intelligence.

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Emotional intelligence meaning not to respond

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when you know the truth.

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Emotional intelligence being, I have grandkids, I know what it looks like when people seek attention.

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Again, I repeat to you all, I hope Freeport is about unity.

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One thing that no one in this council, regardless of your political affiliation,

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should have no discrepancy about is that we need to work and build for our youth.

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At the end of the day, that's what matters.

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I will tell you why I'm so adamant about it.

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I was raised in the city of Chicago. I'm not originally from Freeport.

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I came up in the system. At two years old, I was in DCFS.

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Seven, eight years old, I lived on the streets because I ran from foster homes and group homes.

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At 19, I was in prison with a 15-, 25-, and 50-year sentence.

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While in prison, I made a pivotal transformation in my life because of my oldest son.

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Coming to visit me while I was sitting and sitting, and he couldn't touch me.

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I made that change in prison.

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I went on to get my education. I got a GED.

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I have an associate's degree in general studies.

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I have an associate's degree in political science.

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I further went on to become a certified paralegal.

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And to my sins, Governor J.B. Pritzer commuted my sins based on the programs that I created while I was in prison.

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I returned home here to Freeport to my wife.

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I was one of those kids that you call thugs, punks, and whatever other name that you want to get them.

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At the end of the day, regardless of whatever title you get them, they still our kids.

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that many any failure that's on them is on us as a community and adults in the

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community they are our responsibility from that young black kid with dreads

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that has a black hoodie on

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Fries, that has a black hoodie on, to that young Hispanic kid with tattoos on his face

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or that rough, young white kid that you think just bad. They are our kids. I stand for them.

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If they don't have a voice, I'll be that voice for them. I also stand for Freeport because

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what I didn't share with you while I was sitting in prison for a crime that I committed, I

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I did not commit, rather. I had two staunch advocates. One was Denise Davenport. She was the mother of Deion Davenport. Her son lost his life, which was the case that I was charged with.

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She was my staunchest advocate because she knew I didn't commit the crime. She wrote the governor. She showed up at trials. My wife was my advocate.

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and I'm going to tell you the amazing thing about Freeport and why I'm indebted to Freeport.

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She had an online petition. I've only shared this once. That was Saturday at our Peace March.

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She put an online petition and out of the 400 plus signatures that were signed on there,

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132 people from Freeport signed that signature before I stepped a foot in here.

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I never stepped a foot in Freeport. So I'm indebted to Freeport.

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My work will continue. I do this unapologetically, without permission, and without response.

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But I need us all, specifically you as a council and a Freeport community.

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It's about unity, regardless of the divisiveness.

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Our children and our young people hear that. They embrace that.

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So when Wendy spoke that this was a joke, I'm gonna tell you who it wasn't a joke to.

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Every name on this list is a young person we've lost here in Freeport.

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I speak with their mothers.

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Nisi Ellis was there.

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She spoke on the loss of her son, Montreal Scott.

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My vet showed up.

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She was late, but she spoke on that loss.

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Peace is not a joke.

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Those in our youth is not a joke. For those of you that weren't there, it is what it is.

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But for those of you that had the courage to show up, I can tell you there's a large

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difference. Where the truth of the matter is this. If you think it's a place in politics

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or a piece where you can make it political, it's not. I'm going to tell you who was there.

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Akia Sanders. Yes, the Akia Sanders that's known for being in this chamber, right? Akia is my sister. Mayor Miller was there. We know they are not on the same court. But because they believe in peace, their heart spoke. Because they want to save our youth, their heart spoke. They were there. So going forward, I asked not only this council, but I asked the city of

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and Freeport. Join me as we embark on these 40 days of peace and community building. We

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may very well not be able to stop every shot that's fired, but again I repeat, any initiative,

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no one plan will do that, but community will. Going forward, I hope Freeport will play our

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role in what it is to quell community violence. We have programs that we are going to introduce

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Williams, but that's just our role in it. Every individual in our city has a role. Every

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community organization has a role. Collectively, we can start making that impact. Collectively,

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we can make that change. I am willing to sit down and speak with anybody that wants to

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be a part of that change. I not only speak to you as a citizen of Freeport, I speak to

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Hyslop, Goodyear, St. Louis, D.C., and Tarzana.

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The same streets were we lost five lives.

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Those same streets I walked by myself.

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Go out and talk to the community, to that young man who made me go unwavering.

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I worked a third shift job as snacking.

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I worked 12 out of shifts some days, but if that young man called me and said he needs

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to get to work, I'm getting up out of my sleep and taking him to work.

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That's how committed I am.

00:24:51.920 --> 00:24:59.079
My three young people that I've adopted that go to Banksburg school, anytime they need

00:24:59.079 --> 00:25:01.680
me to show up, I show up.

00:25:01.680 --> 00:25:03.160
I invite you all to show up.

00:25:03.160 --> 00:25:07.460
They'll have a game at the Boys and Girls Club Thursday.

00:25:07.460 --> 00:25:13.220
I have young people from Pearl City, West Carroll, they came out to help us clean up.

00:25:13.220 --> 00:25:14.619
They was late, Joy.

00:25:14.619 --> 00:25:17.619
They came out to help us clean up.

00:25:17.619 --> 00:25:23.180
because I built that relationship with the young people because at the end of the day,

00:25:23.180 --> 00:25:29.799
no matter about our political discrepancies, what we are building is for the future.

00:25:29.799 --> 00:25:32.420
Let's hold that sacred.

00:25:32.420 --> 00:25:34.639
Let's not make peace a joke.

00:25:34.639 --> 00:25:36.660
Let's not politicize it.

00:25:36.660 --> 00:25:43.579
Let's not talk so bad about our city because the young people hear it.

00:25:43.579 --> 00:25:48.460
Every time I speak to a young person, I share these two things with them, a choice and a

00:25:48.460 --> 00:25:49.460
chance.

00:25:49.460 --> 00:25:58.500
I tell them every day they wake up, they have a choice and a chance, a chance to be great,

00:25:58.500 --> 00:26:04.579
a chance to do something great, and I want them to choose to do so.

00:26:04.579 --> 00:26:09.339
I want to share that with the council today and the community as a whole.

00:26:09.339 --> 00:26:16.740
Today we have a chance to be united for peace, regardless of whatever your political agenda

00:26:16.740 --> 00:26:18.980
is.

00:26:18.980 --> 00:26:35.360
Let's Choose to Do So. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Brown. Okay, next on the

00:26:35.360 --> 00:26:42.279
agenda number 10 is discussion regarding ordinance amending chapter 220, rules of

00:26:42.279 --> 00:26:49.519
the council, pending motion to amend the language of section 220.1029 to read

00:26:49.519 --> 00:26:53.519
agenda items for the City Council meetings and Committee of a Whole

00:26:53.519 --> 00:26:59.539
meeting shall be requested by the mayor, the city manager, or two aldermen, or as

00:26:59.539 --> 00:27:04.619
referred to it by the city council. All agenda items shall be accompanied by

00:27:04.619 --> 00:27:10.639
supporting documentation stating the purpose of the agenda item such as a memo

00:27:10.639 --> 00:27:15.599
including the background, discussion, financial consideration, recommendation,

00:27:15.599 --> 00:27:22.319
and association with strategic plan. Attorney Zito. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. So

00:27:22.319 --> 00:27:29.039
So just to give a brief history from last week as to how we got to this agenda item tonight.

00:27:29.039 --> 00:27:33.360
At last week's council meeting there was the rules of council ordinance that was presented

00:27:33.360 --> 00:27:41.940
which proposed certain changes to section 220.10 of the city code of ordinances.

00:27:41.940 --> 00:27:48.200
One of the proposed changes was a change to the manner in which agenda items can be placed

00:27:48.200 --> 00:27:50.539
on the agenda.

00:27:50.539 --> 00:28:06.740
The proposed change required a majority of older persons to place something on the agenda.

00:28:06.740 --> 00:28:09.619
So that was a proposed change in the ordinance.

00:28:09.619 --> 00:28:13.339
There was a motion and a second to move the ordinance forward to the next city council

00:28:13.339 --> 00:28:15.259
meeting next week.

00:28:15.259 --> 00:28:18.900
After that motion and second was made to move the item forward, Alderman Johnson made a

00:28:18.900 --> 00:28:19.900
Miller.

00:28:19.900 --> 00:28:27.700
We have a motion to amend the proposed language, and her motion was to not require a majority

00:28:27.700 --> 00:28:31.079
of older persons in order to be able to add something to the agenda, but rather that two

00:28:31.079 --> 00:28:35.000
older persons could still place an item on the agenda, however, they had to provide the

00:28:35.000 --> 00:28:40.700
supporting documentation, whether that take the form of a memo that then gave the background

00:28:40.700 --> 00:28:46.940
on the agenda item, whatever financial considerations there are, and then how it was in line with

00:28:46.940 --> 00:28:48.799
the strategic plan.

00:28:48.799 --> 00:28:53.460
that proposed amendment was seconded.

00:28:53.460 --> 00:28:59.659
After that motion was made by Alderman Johnson, then Alderman Simmons made a motion to continue

00:28:59.659 --> 00:29:04.619
the conversation, and she motioned to refer Alderman Johnson's motion to the COW.

00:29:04.619 --> 00:29:06.820
And that's how we got here for further discussion.

00:29:06.820 --> 00:29:13.619
So what's before you tonight is a discussion on Alderman Johnson's motion, which is to

00:29:13.619 --> 00:29:18.099
allow for two older persons to place an item on the agenda, provided that they provide

00:29:18.099 --> 00:29:22.900
Supporting documentation i.e. a memo any other documentation in support of

00:29:23.460 --> 00:29:31.299
Whatever their their reason for having the agenda item on on the agenda is for okay any discussion on that

00:29:32.659 --> 00:29:34.659
Is there a motion for that?

00:29:35.779 --> 00:29:42.380
It's discussion, but it's already a motion that's been made it was made at the last meeting and then Alderman Simmons asked to

00:29:42.659 --> 00:29:46.659
Referred it back to committee to talk about Alderman Johnson's motion

00:29:47.420 --> 00:29:48.700
more

00:29:48.700 --> 00:29:54.539
So, so there hasn't been a vote on Alderman Johnson's motion. That's why we're here for more discussion on

00:29:54.539 --> 00:29:55.000
and Robert.

00:29:55.000 --> 00:29:58.940
And we're not in the middle of a discussion on her motion, on Alderman Johnson's motion.

00:29:58.940 --> 00:30:02.690
Cecelia?

00:30:02.690 --> 00:30:05.980
Okay.

00:30:05.980 --> 00:30:14.960
So, if someone wants to put something on the agenda, but they do not include a memo, then

00:30:14.960 --> 00:30:21.099
it can't happen?

00:30:21.099 --> 00:30:27.480
My understanding of…and Alderman Johnson can speak for it if I get this wrong, my understanding

00:30:27.480 --> 00:30:32.799
of Alderman Johnson's proposed amendment is that if two Alderman place something on the

00:30:32.799 --> 00:30:37.559
agenda, then they have to provide supporting documentation for it the same way that staff

00:30:37.559 --> 00:30:40.599
provides typically provides a memo there.

00:30:40.599 --> 00:30:45.680
And how long do they have to present that memo?

00:30:45.680 --> 00:30:51.079
It is my understanding is that if they want it, it has to when they make the request basically

00:30:51.079 --> 00:30:57.440
to have the item placed on the agenda that in enough time to make the packet, they would

00:30:57.440 --> 00:30:59.759
and I would have to provide the memo.

00:30:59.759 --> 00:31:12.839
Because when we have a, what is it called when we get an agenda, like Tuesday, a draft,

00:31:12.839 --> 00:31:20.359
memos are never posted then, so my question still remains, when does the memo have to

00:31:20.359 --> 00:31:23.890
be?

00:31:23.890 --> 00:31:26.490
Oh, I'm sorry, Chair.

00:31:26.490 --> 00:31:28.170
Go ahead.

00:31:28.170 --> 00:31:46.910
Typically, I like items by Thursday, by 5 o'clock.

00:31:46.910 --> 00:31:48.470
Okay.

00:31:48.470 --> 00:31:51.190
Personally, I'm going to make my comment, and then we'll go to Larry.

00:31:51.190 --> 00:31:54.910
I'd rather see it go back to originally where we need a majority of the council,

00:31:54.910 --> 00:31:56.509
but that's only my opinion.

00:31:56.509 --> 00:31:58.589
Okay, Larry, you got something?

00:31:58.589 --> 00:32:00.309
Yeah.

00:32:00.309 --> 00:32:07.509
Yeah, I've been sitting here for almost over two years, and as council,

00:32:07.509 --> 00:32:12.509
and the fact that we're beginning to understand

00:32:13.309 --> 00:32:18.250
the process of adding items to the agenda.

00:32:18.250 --> 00:32:23.250
The minute that this avenue path opened up,

00:32:23.750 --> 00:32:28.750
now it is so inconvenience to some

00:32:28.829 --> 00:32:33.230
that certain people are putting things on the agenda.

00:32:33.230 --> 00:32:38.230
I find that kind of a hypocritical for someone to

00:32:40.950 --> 00:32:43.369
now wanna change the course of directions

00:32:43.369 --> 00:32:46.110
on how we proceed with agendas.

00:32:46.110 --> 00:32:50.130
When I first came here, that was no problem.

00:32:50.130 --> 00:32:50.970
Why?

00:32:50.970 --> 00:32:52.670
Because we didn't understand the process

00:32:52.670 --> 00:32:57.670
of putting ordinance drafts and discussions together

00:32:58.389 --> 00:32:59.950
to put on the agenda.

00:32:59.950 --> 00:33:02.869
We had not understood that yet.

00:33:03.230 --> 00:33:05.230
Huffines.

00:33:06.349 --> 00:33:09.029
So now that we are understanding the process, it is beginning

00:33:09.029 --> 00:33:11.029
to change.

00:33:13.150 --> 00:33:15.069
With an amendment, you want to put it up and address that

00:33:15.069 --> 00:33:21.150
issue. So you can change it so the majority, we can see right

00:33:21.150 --> 00:33:24.349
through what you are doing, you know, we can understand exactly

00:33:24.349 --> 00:33:26.349
why this is happening.

00:33:28.549 --> 00:33:30.549
So the agenda won't be enforced because of the majority.

00:33:33.230 --> 00:33:41.230
and I have input on a particular item before two people can put an item on the agenda.

00:33:41.230 --> 00:33:42.230
Alderman Sanders?

00:33:42.230 --> 00:33:43.230
Yeah.

00:33:43.230 --> 00:33:50.230
Right now, she pulled it back so that it can be two people, but a memo must follow.

00:33:50.230 --> 00:33:59.230
Well, the memo does not give you enough clarity what you have to stipulate within that memo.

00:33:59.230 --> 00:34:00.230
and others.

00:34:00.230 --> 00:34:07.670
Where is this memo and how do you define this memo and what is the criteria of this memo

00:34:07.670 --> 00:34:14.550
in order for someone to introduce a memo because you're coming off pretty vague about the description

00:34:14.550 --> 00:34:21.550
of what a memo should have within its content and how we should go about making the decision

00:34:21.550 --> 00:34:25.349
on what you present, who makes the determination.

00:34:25.349 --> 00:34:37.349
Alderman Sanders, if you want something on the agenda, you, according to that agenda item, create the memo, honey.

00:34:37.349 --> 00:34:49.349
Okay, okay. Well, I look at this as an inconvenience for some and a convenience for others.

00:34:49.349 --> 00:34:56.389
So my thing is whatever we're doing to try to amend something, I like to see the

00:34:56.389 --> 00:35:03.550
council inject these proposals. I don't want to see no one else interfering with

00:35:03.550 --> 00:35:10.590
council when it comes to asserting what items go on the agenda.

00:35:10.590 --> 00:35:12.590
That's why she pulled it back.

00:35:12.590 --> 00:35:18.230
Yeah, and that's been a problem. I thank you for doing that. But the thing

00:35:18.230 --> 00:35:22.309
about it is it's too much stuff happening within the council.

00:35:22.309 --> 00:35:25.550
There's a reason why people can read what we're talking about

00:35:25.550 --> 00:35:31.029
and understand the manipulation and deceptions and things

00:35:31.029 --> 00:35:33.070
of that nature that is taking place.

00:35:33.070 --> 00:35:37.710
We just didn't show up for, I just didn't show

00:35:37.710 --> 00:35:44.029
up for the convenience of just sitting on the council.

00:35:44.029 --> 00:35:46.710
I came to understand what's the process

00:35:46.710 --> 00:35:55.070
of our community, city managements and city over options are when it comes to council.

00:35:55.070 --> 00:35:57.630
I came to understand and learn.

00:35:57.630 --> 00:36:04.029
And what I'm learning is something that I am confused about.

00:36:04.029 --> 00:36:10.210
Why do we go through the process if you're going to vote everything down that the citizens

00:36:10.210 --> 00:36:12.550
of Freeport is advocating for?

00:36:12.550 --> 00:36:15.309
I just can't see that.

00:36:15.309 --> 00:36:24.029
So my whole mission is to understand why the council goes through these dilemmas and manipulations

00:36:24.029 --> 00:36:26.309
that we go through.

00:36:26.309 --> 00:36:28.869
And I'm not addressing no one certain person.

00:36:28.869 --> 00:36:38.429
I'm just addressing the fact that what I see through my own eyes and others are seeing,

00:36:38.429 --> 00:36:42.909
we just got to stop doing what it is that we're doing and do the right thing.

00:36:42.909 --> 00:36:51.909
and I don't want to hear no one else. Okay. Well, let me pause.

00:36:51.909 --> 00:36:52.909
Okay. Yeah.

00:36:52.909 --> 00:36:53.909
Yeah.

00:36:53.909 --> 00:36:58.909
Linda, do you want to say anything or any other comments about this? Go ahead, Linda.

00:36:58.909 --> 00:37:04.949
Larry, on here it does say what needs to be accompanied to it and the reason it says that

00:37:04.949 --> 00:37:11.230
is to give us a better idea of what the thoughts are behind it, who it's going to benefit,

00:37:11.230 --> 00:37:13.630
How is it going to help the city move forward?

00:37:13.630 --> 00:37:17.269
How is it going to help the people in the city?

00:37:17.269 --> 00:37:21.949
So those are the things we want to know when something is being discussed, what exactly

00:37:21.949 --> 00:37:28.029
you're thinking regarding this discussion, and also if there's anything in that discussion

00:37:28.029 --> 00:37:32.190
that might be answered outside of the council floor.

00:37:32.190 --> 00:37:35.590
There might be some questions in the discussion that could be answered before it's brought

00:37:35.590 --> 00:37:37.849
to the council floor for discussion.

00:37:37.849 --> 00:37:42.489
So if we have a memo regarding it, it would give us all better understanding of what it

00:37:42.489 --> 00:37:44.690
is that you're bringing forward.

00:37:44.690 --> 00:37:45.690
Cecelia?

00:37:45.690 --> 00:37:47.809
Alderman Stacy, please.

00:37:47.809 --> 00:37:48.809
Okay.

00:37:48.809 --> 00:37:51.170
Alderman Stacy, please.

00:37:51.170 --> 00:38:04.779
So the memo needs to consist of the purpose of the agenda item, including background.

00:38:04.779 --> 00:38:08.619
I don't know what that means.

00:38:08.619 --> 00:38:24.409
is on the agenda for discussion. I don't know what including background nor discussion mean.

00:38:24.409 --> 00:38:28.650
And what if there is no financial consideration?

00:38:28.650 --> 00:38:35.090
Okay. Alder, or Attorney Ziedel?

00:38:35.090 --> 00:38:39.730
So I guess the best way I could try to say this is, or is to give the example of like

00:38:39.730 --> 00:38:43.489
the memos that staff currently attaches.

00:38:43.489 --> 00:38:46.130
You know, so pick any one of the memos,

00:38:46.130 --> 00:38:49.769
typically that staff attaches to an agenda item there.

00:38:49.769 --> 00:38:52.769
So even using the memo that's in the packet tonight

00:38:52.769 --> 00:38:56.769
on this agenda item, it's broken up into background

00:38:56.769 --> 00:38:59.989
and it gives a little bit of background as to, you know,

00:39:00.949 --> 00:39:03.570
why this item is being brought before the council

00:39:03.570 --> 00:39:08.570
or there, and then it goes into a discussion, you know,

00:39:08.570 --> 00:39:13.970
you know as to hey what are for example let's say why are you advocating let's

00:39:13.970 --> 00:39:17.610
say this is an item that you want on it you know so you're gonna say well this

00:39:17.610 --> 00:39:22.090
is why I want to bring this this topic up you know here are the details of it

00:39:22.090 --> 00:39:25.250
you know we need to do this this and this it would you know the financial

00:39:25.250 --> 00:39:29.289
impact is it would cost this much for us to do this you know I mean again I'm

00:39:29.289 --> 00:39:33.489
trying to do this on the fly right now but let's say you wanted to do you think

00:39:33.489 --> 00:39:37.210
we need to buy a new street paver right let's say that's the item you want to

00:39:37.210 --> 00:39:39.369
have put on the agenda.

00:39:39.369 --> 00:39:41.929
You could say the background is, well,

00:39:41.929 --> 00:39:43.130
we currently don't have enough.

00:39:43.130 --> 00:39:44.650
Roads aren't getting fixed enough.

00:39:44.650 --> 00:39:46.809
We need to be able to fix more roads.

00:39:46.809 --> 00:39:48.690
And we only fixed this many roads,

00:39:48.690 --> 00:39:50.050
this many miles of roads in the past.

00:39:50.050 --> 00:39:51.090
I think that should be double.

00:39:51.090 --> 00:39:53.050
And that's the background, right?

00:39:53.050 --> 00:39:54.449
That we're only fixing so.

00:39:54.449 --> 00:39:56.199
right that we're only fixing so many miles of road right now your proposal

00:39:56.199 --> 00:40:01.199
then is to say we should buy a second streets paver and then the discussion

00:40:01.199 --> 00:40:05.280
you could go into all the pros and cons of it and lay out from your perspective

00:40:05.280 --> 00:40:09.239
what the pros and cons are you can then say what the financial impact well it's

00:40:09.239 --> 00:40:13.239
going to cost X hundred thousand dollars to buy this so that's why you know the

00:40:13.239 --> 00:40:16.880
city would need to vote on whether or not to do that and then how's it in line

00:40:16.880 --> 00:40:21.440
with the strategic plan so then I mean I need to call Darren and say how much is

00:40:21.440 --> 00:40:30.320
is it does it cost to buy this item and and I think that's going to what Alderman Johnson

00:40:30.320 --> 00:40:35.519
was saying that there might need to be some homework done in order for the memo to be

00:40:35.519 --> 00:40:41.659
put together so that people understand why a particular alderman is bringing forward

00:40:41.659 --> 00:40:45.880
an agenda item which is usually a proposal you know usually you want something done or

00:40:45.880 --> 00:40:48.079
some action to be taken.

00:40:48.079 --> 00:40:50.079
Johnson,

00:40:51.179 --> 00:40:53.179
Kirsten,

00:40:54.300 --> 00:40:56.300
and

00:40:57.400 --> 00:40:59.400
I have several things on the agenda tonight.

00:41:00.500 --> 00:41:02.900
So I will probably come back to you so you can help me understand what

00:41:02.900 --> 00:41:04.900
memo would I need to put with something.

00:41:08.599 --> 00:41:10.599
≫ Alderman Johnson, did you have more to say?

00:41:11.800 --> 00:41:13.800
≫ No.

00:41:15.000 --> 00:41:17.000
≫ Anyone else?

00:41:18.079 --> 00:41:19.079
and Stacey.

00:41:19.079 --> 00:41:22.719
I want to ask you, Alderman Parker, for saying that you would be against that.

00:41:22.719 --> 00:41:29.760
I just wonder why would you be against an Alder person who can draft a memo, state in their

00:41:29.760 --> 00:41:34.599
case and the reasons and financial responsibility, why would you be against them if they have

00:41:34.599 --> 00:41:40.199
a second being able to bring that to us as has been since the beginning of this Council?

00:41:40.199 --> 00:41:41.599
Well, that was just my opinion.

00:41:41.599 --> 00:41:47.320
If you got the information that they just explained what Alderman Stacy said and her,

00:41:47.320 --> 00:41:53.719
I would have no problem going with just two of them with the memo and explaining everything.

00:41:53.719 --> 00:41:54.719
Alderman Sanders.

00:41:54.719 --> 00:42:04.599
Yeah, I'd like to have us to categorize a listing of criteria for all of the things

00:42:04.599 --> 00:42:09.960
that you guys are referring to so we can see it in documentation and writing.

00:42:09.960 --> 00:42:13.559
I heard the request, I heard an example.

00:42:13.559 --> 00:42:15.599
I'd like to see it in writing.

00:42:15.599 --> 00:42:16.599
That's what I'm saying.

00:42:16.599 --> 00:42:19.199
if we're requesting something,

00:42:19.199 --> 00:42:22.000
then everything has to be documented

00:42:22.000 --> 00:42:26.440
where no one is making mistakes.

00:42:26.440 --> 00:42:29.360
They have to do the check off list.

00:42:29.360 --> 00:42:33.119
This, this, this been covered.

00:42:33.119 --> 00:42:35.760
And then that way we know as council

00:42:35.760 --> 00:42:40.139
that all of the stipulations of this item

00:42:40.139 --> 00:42:43.880
that's being put on the agenda has been covered.

00:42:43.880 --> 00:42:47.320
so we need to do that in order to keep everyone

00:42:47.320 --> 00:42:52.320
in alignment with what we just heard as an example.

00:42:54.480 --> 00:42:57.260
And wait a minute, I'm not done, I'm not done.

00:42:58.199 --> 00:43:03.199
What we should be presented with,

00:43:03.280 --> 00:43:05.159
and that goes for everybody,

00:43:05.159 --> 00:43:08.440
and that includes administrative bodies

00:43:08.440 --> 00:43:12.539
within the city structure should also be attached

00:43:12.539 --> 00:43:16.539
All of those items that we just got done talking about.

00:43:16.539 --> 00:43:19.539
Attorney Zito wants to respond to that.

00:43:19.539 --> 00:43:20.539
Background.

00:43:20.539 --> 00:43:21.539
Okay.

00:43:21.539 --> 00:43:22.539
Discussion.

00:43:22.539 --> 00:43:23.539
Financial.

00:43:23.539 --> 00:43:24.539
All right.

00:43:24.539 --> 00:43:25.539
Strategic plan.

00:43:25.539 --> 00:43:27.539
Well, you've been on it.

00:43:27.539 --> 00:43:29.539
You own it.

00:43:29.539 --> 00:43:33.539
That's a great thing.

00:43:33.539 --> 00:43:38.539
And well, the thing about it is we're making progress.

00:43:38.539 --> 00:43:40.539
I love progress.

00:43:40.539 --> 00:43:44.619
but I don't like manipulation. I like progress. Okay, thank you.

00:43:45.619 --> 00:43:51.099
All right, any more discussion? We can go to the next item. I thought attorney Zito had something. Well, he shook his head.

00:43:51.099 --> 00:43:53.099
You answered it for him.

00:43:53.619 --> 00:43:55.619
You answered his question for him.

00:43:55.860 --> 00:43:57.860
Good job.

00:43:58.500 --> 00:44:00.500
Okay.

00:44:01.059 --> 00:44:03.059
Go ahead.

00:44:08.260 --> 00:44:13.019
Amend the amendment that has been proposed.

00:44:13.739 --> 00:44:20.260
you can't you yes you can not tonight you back at the council meeting right

00:44:20.260 --> 00:44:23.220
because tonight was just put on your your motion when you referred it here was

00:44:23.220 --> 00:44:27.579
just that further discussion on Alderman Johnson's proposed amendment so when

00:44:27.579 --> 00:44:31.779
it's on the agenda for next it'll be on the agenda for next week at the council

00:44:31.779 --> 00:44:37.380
so where we would be is we would have Alderman Johnson's motion on the floor

00:44:37.380 --> 00:44:43.619
as she's presented it you couldn't make a motion to tweak her motion in some

00:44:43.619 --> 00:44:50.980
change the proposed language that she wanted there if that seconded and approved and passes

00:44:50.980 --> 00:44:55.220
then your amendment to her amendment would exist and then we would work back down the

00:44:55.220 --> 00:44:59.779
ladder you know and then we would vote on her amendment as amended by your amendment

00:44:59.779 --> 00:45:03.019
and then right back down.

00:45:03.019 --> 00:45:09.980
Number 11, if there is no quorum during the first roll call at the May 19th 2025 council

00:45:09.980 --> 00:45:15.900
meeting who authorized the second roll call presented by Alderman Sanders and

00:45:15.900 --> 00:45:25.329
Alderman Stacy. Alderman Sanders, go ahead. Yeah, I wanted to be put on record. I wanted

00:45:25.329 --> 00:45:36.929
to be stated that actions before a quorum, actions before roll call was

00:45:36.929 --> 00:45:59.279
I just wanted on record of who authorized action to be taken on this council floor without council having a roll call or a quorum within this council.

00:45:59.279 --> 00:46:07.279
I like to know, I want to have that put on record so we know that we do not have to follow protocols.

00:46:07.279 --> 00:46:22.279
We can do what we want to do, say what we want to say, and take action before roll calls,

00:46:22.279 --> 00:46:28.279
before a quorum has been attached to this council.

00:46:28.279 --> 00:46:37.000
So I'd like to put it on record who authorized the proceeding of May 19th.

00:46:37.000 --> 00:46:40.400
and then who counsel, well, I'm not there.

00:46:40.400 --> 00:46:42.800
I don't have that down yet, but I will.

00:46:42.800 --> 00:46:47.800
But that's another item I'm gonna put on the agenda.

00:46:48.019 --> 00:46:51.420
But I wanna get past this first.

00:46:51.420 --> 00:46:53.720
I wanna make sure that we understand

00:46:53.720 --> 00:46:58.720
who authorizing procedures without a quorum

00:46:59.860 --> 00:47:01.820
and without a roll call.

00:47:01.820 --> 00:47:03.019
And we follow that.

00:47:03.019 --> 00:47:05.860
And I am ashamed of council members

00:47:05.860 --> 00:47:06.860
Miller.

00:47:06.860 --> 00:47:13.300
Allowing things to take place in that fashion without input or objections.

00:47:13.300 --> 00:47:18.779
I'm like flabbergasted that nobody made an appeal.

00:47:18.779 --> 00:47:21.059
No one said anything.

00:47:21.059 --> 00:47:24.099
And that's what frustrated me to bring this out.

00:47:24.099 --> 00:47:31.900
And I like to know, I wanted to be put on record who authorized that action that took

00:47:31.900 --> 00:47:35.099
place before roll call and a quorum.

00:47:35.099 --> 00:47:40.099
I don't have an answer for you, but I know the Attorney General approved it, but I don't know if anybody has an answer.

00:47:40.099 --> 00:47:44.699
Aaron, go ahead.

00:47:44.699 --> 00:47:50.699
So Alderman Sanders, there was a roll call at the beginning of the meeting at 6 o'clock.

00:47:50.699 --> 00:47:51.699
No, it was not.

00:47:51.699 --> 00:47:52.699
There was a roll call.

00:47:52.699 --> 00:47:53.699
No, it was not.

00:47:53.699 --> 00:48:00.699
The meeting was called to order, and there was a roll call, and Alderman Johnson had already been seated,

00:48:00.699 --> 00:48:04.860
and therefore when there was a roll call there were there was a quorum present

00:48:04.860 --> 00:48:11.059
because there were five aldermen present. That's fine I'm just telling you

00:48:11.059 --> 00:48:14.420
procedurally what happened. I'm not saying you're free to have your own

00:48:14.420 --> 00:48:19.980
opinion on it I'm just telling you procedurally what happened. Okay number

00:48:19.980 --> 00:48:25.179
12 discussion regarding ordinance amending various provisions of the

00:48:25.179 --> 00:48:29.619
City Code of Ordinance regarding residency requirements for department

00:48:29.619 --> 00:48:32.860
Heads, and certain other employees presented by Alderman

00:48:32.860 --> 00:48:36.949
Sanders and Alderman Stacy.

00:48:36.949 --> 00:48:39.750
Whichever one wants to respond to that.

00:48:39.750 --> 00:48:52.199
Well, it takes me back to the May 5th cancellation.

00:48:52.199 --> 00:48:59.619
And from my understanding, that the residency ordinance

00:48:59.619 --> 00:49:02.539
was voted on and passed.

00:49:02.539 --> 00:49:16.300
if that happened, you cannot send out an agenda saying that council or the assembly is canceled

00:49:16.300 --> 00:49:25.059
because of lack of whatever. I'd like to know who canceled our meeting May 5th. I'd like

00:49:25.059 --> 00:49:30.619
that to be on record. Who's canceling things without the authorization and the knowledge

00:49:30.619 --> 00:49:35.820
of Council understanding why that cancellation took place and nobody is

00:49:35.820 --> 00:49:42.460
wanting nobody wants to put their names on this but my point is a residency

00:49:42.460 --> 00:49:47.500
ordinance was passed and it shouldn't have passed it was invalid to pass it

00:49:47.500 --> 00:49:53.699
because it was canceled the meeting was canceled when was a

00:49:53.699 --> 00:50:09.000
Knapp, Tom, Robert, Daniel, And who cancelled? When was a meeting put together with council that allowed the proper voting that should have taken place and what date, time and the meeting time that that had taken place. Who cancelled that?

00:50:09.000 --> 00:50:15.300
Zito. Alderman Sanders, the May 5th meeting was not canceled. May 12th is what he

00:50:15.300 --> 00:50:23.739
means. May 12th, that's where I'm in. Oh, okay. May 12th. It was canceled and I need

00:50:23.739 --> 00:50:32.860
someone to address that. Alderman Shadle. The ordinance was passed May 19th. That is

00:50:32.860 --> 00:50:37.360
not what I just referred to. You're talking about the residency ordinance. The

00:50:37.360 --> 00:50:38.360
Huffines.

00:50:38.360 --> 00:50:40.280
The Residency Ordinance was passed May 19th.

00:50:40.280 --> 00:50:46.360
It can't be passed May 19th because there was no quorum and there was no council.

00:50:46.360 --> 00:50:51.039
There was no quorum and there was no roll call of a quorum in place.

00:50:51.039 --> 00:50:54.159
There was nothing in place to make that happen.

00:50:54.159 --> 00:51:04.119
And if that is the case, I did not see that in my, I did not see that being passed and

00:51:04.119 --> 00:51:05.119
voted on.

00:51:05.119 --> 00:51:11.119
I did not see that and so I'd like to address that. When was it passed and when was it voted on?

00:51:11.119 --> 00:51:12.119
Journey ZETO.

00:51:12.119 --> 00:51:26.119
So the residency requirement ordinance was on the agenda for May 19th. As I stated on the last agenda item, there was a quorum at the time that the meeting was called. I know you disagree, that's fine.

00:51:26.119 --> 00:51:30.559
there there was a quorum of five all the persons present so the meeting may

00:51:30.559 --> 00:51:33.599
move forward when we got to the agenda item that dealt with the residence

00:51:33.599 --> 00:51:42.719
requirement that was voted on at that meeting on the 19th. Can I say this?

00:51:42.719 --> 00:51:54.039
Who conducted that voting process? Who conducted it? He's gonna tell you. That was

00:51:54.039 --> 00:51:55.039
Miller.

00:51:55.039 --> 00:51:58.880
This was a regular city council meeting, so that meeting was chaired by the mayor, and

00:51:58.880 --> 00:52:03.079
then it was conducted by the other persons that were here, the five other persons that

00:52:03.079 --> 00:52:05.079
were here.

00:52:05.079 --> 00:52:06.079
Alderman Shadle.

00:52:06.079 --> 00:52:18.760
And again, this is the May 19th meeting that the Attorney General's Office sent a letter

00:52:18.760 --> 00:52:28.460
saying I believe I have the floor, that there was no wrongdoing done.

00:52:28.460 --> 00:52:30.280
The quorum was established.

00:52:30.280 --> 00:52:32.440
The meeting was in order.

00:52:32.440 --> 00:52:38.829
The item was taken up at the meeting, voted on, and passed.

00:52:38.829 --> 00:52:41.510
Alderman Johnson.

00:52:41.510 --> 00:52:45.070
I have some questions regarding this discussion.

00:52:45.070 --> 00:52:47.389
For you, I have several of them.

00:52:47.389 --> 00:52:51.269
How is this discussion pursuing what is good for us

00:52:51.269 --> 00:52:53.510
and for this city?

00:52:53.510 --> 00:52:56.630
Who will benefit from this discussion?

00:52:56.630 --> 00:53:02.829
What is your goal, your hope to accomplish from this discussion?

00:53:02.829 --> 00:53:05.949
What is the purpose of this discussion?

00:53:05.949 --> 00:53:08.809
Will this discussion bring harm to any?

00:53:08.809 --> 00:53:14.710
And could some of this discussion and questions have been done outside of the council floor?

00:53:14.710 --> 00:53:16.389
So could you answer those, please?

00:53:16.389 --> 00:53:17.389
Oh, yeah.

00:53:17.389 --> 00:53:24.389
If you're referring to me, the fact that matter that you have an opinion, that's what you're

00:53:24.389 --> 00:53:25.630
stating right now.

00:53:25.630 --> 00:53:26.829
I'm asking you questions.

00:53:26.829 --> 00:53:32.070
But you have to understand, we are governed by ordinances.

00:53:32.070 --> 00:53:37.030
We have laws in place that has already been placed in place.

00:53:37.030 --> 00:53:39.789
So for you to address your opinions

00:53:39.789 --> 00:53:42.989
and then ask me questions about the very same things

00:53:42.989 --> 00:53:48.030
about our laws, this is what governs this council.

00:53:48.030 --> 00:53:50.349
Ordinances governs this council.

00:53:50.349 --> 00:53:53.110
I want you to know that if you didn't know that.

00:53:53.110 --> 00:53:55.710
so your opinion and expressions does not

00:53:57.070 --> 00:54:00.030
says anything to me because I'm following,

00:54:00.030 --> 00:54:03.349
this is my objective is to follow the ordinance

00:54:03.349 --> 00:54:06.190
since it was presented before me

00:54:06.190 --> 00:54:11.190
and if there's anything that is not abiding to the ordinance

00:54:12.670 --> 00:54:15.829
then I will speak up and I will say what it is

00:54:15.829 --> 00:54:19.789
and what it isn't and so for you to try to point that out

00:54:19.789 --> 00:54:20.789
Johnson.

00:54:20.789 --> 00:54:27.590
I'm addressing you to let you know, read your ordinance, and that governs who you are at

00:54:27.590 --> 00:54:31.789
your council seat, and that's what we go by.

00:54:31.789 --> 00:54:34.230
If you step out of line with that, then it's invalid.

00:54:34.230 --> 00:54:36.750
I'll get back to what we're on.

00:54:36.750 --> 00:54:39.349
Do you have something to say, Ms. Stacey?

00:54:39.349 --> 00:54:45.710
Yes, we never get the answer pertaining to who canceled the May 12th meeting.

00:54:45.710 --> 00:54:49.750
Right.

00:54:49.750 --> 00:54:55.829
right that so that's an off topic question because we're the agenda item is talking about the residency

00:54:55.829 --> 00:55:03.269
ordinance well it came up i didn't bring it up it only came up because alderman sanders referenced

00:55:03.269 --> 00:55:07.909
the 12th meeting but that had the residency requirement had nothing to do with the meeting

00:55:07.909 --> 00:55:12.470
on the 12th so he we corrected him and said that the residency ordinance was on the 19th

00:55:13.029 --> 00:55:20.070
and then we had the conversation move forward from there item number 13 no we're not you've

00:55:20.070 --> 00:55:50.070
We've already spoke twice. No, I have not on the residency. I only spoke once. No limits on the Cal. Now you need to understand the protocol. Yeah, it's not our ordinance currently doesn't specify. It's not real clear. So it's been in the discretion of the chair. So this is this is how we operate. Yeah, well, this is how we operate anyway. Okay, so let's remember the rules. He's the chair and he gets to say who has the floor and let's go back to the topic that you actually

00:55:50.070 --> 00:55:59.349
Wait a minute. Hold up. Hold up. Wait a minute. It's not, it's out of order. It is totally

00:55:59.349 --> 00:56:04.949
out of order, just as you spoke just then. Number 13. Yeah, it is out of, no, no, I'm

00:56:04.949 --> 00:56:09.869
still referring to. Larry. We are done with that. How can we be done with something when

00:56:09.869 --> 00:56:21.880
I'm on the floor? Water treatment plant. Alderman Stacy and Alderman Simmons. Wow. This is.

00:56:21.880 --> 00:56:31.720
and Stacy do it? Yes. It's been two years since we voted on and spoke about the

00:56:31.720 --> 00:56:39.400
Hancock wastewater treatment plant. I would like to know where we at with the

00:56:39.400 --> 00:56:49.559
wastewater treatment plant. Sure. We're about 43% so far. Approximately 23

00:56:49.559 --> 00:56:54.300
23 and a half million dollars have been paid out to our contractor IHC the

00:56:54.300 --> 00:56:58.619
weather has been good and we've not had any significant groundwater issues

00:56:58.619 --> 00:57:03.179
everything is going according to the design plan except for contaminated

00:57:03.179 --> 00:57:07.119
soils that we had at the very beginning of the project and we're remediated back

00:57:07.119 --> 00:57:12.820
to the Winnebago landfill. The ultraviolet building will be completed

00:57:12.820 --> 00:57:18.900
in late fall of 25 and ready for the spring startup. Once we start the chlorine

00:57:18.900 --> 00:57:21.460
System will be demolished and removed.

00:57:21.460 --> 00:57:24.739
The chemically enhanced primary treatment

00:57:24.739 --> 00:57:26.099
will be estimated to be completed

00:57:26.099 --> 00:57:27.779
by the summer of 26.

00:57:27.779 --> 00:57:30.539
Headworks and lab building early 27.

00:57:30.539 --> 00:57:33.420
And the headworks was dug to an elevation of 55 feet

00:57:33.420 --> 00:57:36.260
below the surface to install the building foundation.

00:57:36.260 --> 00:57:38.059
Treatment plan has been working adequately

00:57:38.059 --> 00:57:39.099
during the construction.

00:57:39.099 --> 00:57:42.980
And the contracting engineer and wastewater treatment plan staff

00:57:42.980 --> 00:57:45.420
meet two times a month for coordination.

00:57:45.420 --> 00:57:48.699
IHC, that is the contractor, is doing a very good job

00:57:48.699 --> 00:57:53.139
for the city of Freeport, and currently we're tracking for final completion in the summer

00:57:53.139 --> 00:57:55.139
of 27.

00:57:55.139 --> 00:57:57.139
Okay.

00:57:57.139 --> 00:58:04.630
You said something in your very first sentence about 43%.

00:58:04.630 --> 00:58:05.630
What was that?

00:58:05.630 --> 00:58:08.630
We're about 43% complete.

00:58:08.630 --> 00:58:11.150
43% complete.

00:58:11.150 --> 00:58:17.389
Okay, so that I don't have to go over each line that you just talked about, can I get

00:58:17.389 --> 00:58:18.789
a copy of that?

00:58:18.789 --> 00:58:19.789
Sure.

00:58:19.789 --> 00:58:22.289
Okay, so then I'm done with that one.

00:58:22.289 --> 00:58:23.289
Thank you.

00:58:23.289 --> 00:58:32.949
Item 14, same area, update on the Hancock Bridge, Alderman Stacy and Alderman Simmons.

00:58:32.949 --> 00:58:38.949
When we first spoke about this, these two things were put together, these two items,

00:58:38.949 --> 00:58:42.949
the water, the wastewater plant and the bridge.

00:58:42.949 --> 00:58:50.949
I know there was a lot of discussion about the other factories being able to get their equipment

00:58:50.949 --> 00:58:52.110
and this and that.

00:58:52.110 --> 00:58:56.130
So where are we actually at with the bridge?

00:58:57.429 --> 00:58:59.869
So design is in final review

00:58:59.869 --> 00:59:01.929
with the Federal Highway Administration.

00:59:02.949 --> 00:59:06.869
It's making, it's working on city site or sidewalk

00:59:06.869 --> 00:59:09.949
and running north of the bridge to Album Street.

00:59:09.949 --> 00:59:11.909
Also the Federal Highway Administration

00:59:11.909 --> 00:59:15.429
is making the city investigate historical handrails

00:59:15.429 --> 00:59:18.829
on the bridge as part of the environmental sign-off.

00:59:18.829 --> 00:59:23.670
The funding agency was requiring 220 feet of pavement reconstruction in both directions

00:59:23.670 --> 00:59:27.230
to be removed and there's a hump there.

00:59:27.230 --> 00:59:32.110
So we wanted to remove that hump and it will take the stress off of the structure.

00:59:32.110 --> 00:59:37.150
The project's being pushed to a bid letting in the summer of 26 and the city is trying

00:59:37.150 --> 00:59:43.429
to resolve land acquisition issues currently as that is a primary hurdle.

00:59:43.429 --> 00:59:48.630
Temporary and permanent easement documents are being prepared and the walk and ride trail

00:59:48.630 --> 00:59:49.989
must be closed during the construction.

00:59:49.989 --> 00:59:51.559
Trail must be closed during the construction, currently planning on the

00:59:51.559 --> 00:59:56.920
summer of 26 with bidding and a nine-month completion date after that.

00:59:56.920 --> 01:00:01.880
Question, are they gonna have to do something with the underpass then, before

01:00:01.880 --> 01:00:10.710
then? Yes, we're currently working on the viaduct, yes. Alderman Stacey. And you

01:00:10.710 --> 01:00:20.510
said completed nine months after it goes out for bidding. That's correct, yes. Nine

01:00:20.510 --> 01:00:26.699
months after the startup construction. That's not usually the same date as the

01:00:26.699 --> 01:00:30.860
bidding. Bidding is not the same as startup construction. Usually have about a

01:00:30.860 --> 01:00:35.420
month to six weeks of contracts and insurance requirements and things like

01:00:35.420 --> 01:00:40.300
that to get going. So you're saying nine months after start of construction. Yes

01:00:40.300 --> 01:00:47.679
ma'am. Alderman Simmons. I had a question city manager. When you say land

01:00:47.679 --> 01:00:53.000
Equisition. What land are you speaking of? Essentially we're dealing with an older

01:00:53.000 --> 01:00:57.719
part of town. We have some issues with certain overlaps of property lines and

01:00:57.719 --> 01:01:08.719
we're at working to resolve those right now. The buildings right there by the

01:01:08.719 --> 01:01:13.519
bridge? I mean I can ask you this later. Yeah we could talk about offline but

01:01:13.519 --> 01:01:17.119
essentially you have property lines that kind of overlap the area and then we're

01:01:17.119 --> 01:01:18.079
for resolving that.

01:01:19.280 --> 01:01:20.840
Alderman Sanders.

01:01:20.840 --> 01:01:24.920
Do we have benchmarks set up for each project

01:01:24.920 --> 01:01:26.019
for completion?

01:01:27.159 --> 01:01:30.920
Because like these jobs that we're doing right now,

01:01:30.920 --> 01:01:33.039
these projects that we're doing,

01:01:33.039 --> 01:01:37.739
there should be earmarked for completion.

01:01:37.739 --> 01:01:42.239
Do we have that in our design?

01:01:42.239 --> 01:01:52.880
and because I like to know if these jobs are bidded out, are they meeting their compliance?

01:01:52.880 --> 01:01:54.599
Are they in compliance?

01:01:54.599 --> 01:02:02.159
And so we should be able to have a completion date or somewhere thereabouts around that

01:02:02.159 --> 01:02:03.159
time.

01:02:03.159 --> 01:02:11.019
So we do have that available for us to look at and get access to it.

01:02:11.019 --> 01:02:17.059
Every project that the city puts out either has a completion date or calendar date or

01:02:17.059 --> 01:02:19.179
a working day contract.

01:02:19.179 --> 01:02:23.940
Everyone's a little bit different, but there's always a completion deadline.

01:02:23.940 --> 01:02:28.059
Contractors get more time if we have weather issues or we have something that's out of

01:02:28.059 --> 01:02:29.059
their control.

01:02:29.059 --> 01:02:36.139
Currently, the biggest holdup with the Hancock Vidoc I will pick out is the NICOR has to

01:02:36.139 --> 01:02:38.739
relocate the gas main that goes under the Vidoc.

01:02:38.739 --> 01:02:41.940
we can't do any other work until they can relocate.

01:02:41.940 --> 01:02:43.500
They've been trying to get a permit,

01:02:43.500 --> 01:02:46.179
a design permit to move that for six months.

01:02:46.179 --> 01:02:47.019
Okay.

01:02:47.019 --> 01:02:48.099
And so they're the holdup.

01:02:48.099 --> 01:02:50.139
It's really, it's probably a three month project

01:02:50.139 --> 01:02:51.579
after it's done.

01:02:51.579 --> 01:02:53.659
We're fortunate that we have good partners

01:02:53.659 --> 01:02:56.139
like Helm Construction that's holding their pricing

01:02:56.139 --> 01:02:59.980
for us because technically they probably wouldn't have to,

01:02:59.980 --> 01:03:03.280
but they're doing it because they're part of Freeport.

01:03:03.280 --> 01:03:07.780
Well, there wouldn't be a strain

01:03:07.780 --> 01:03:20.619
We will never let, just to be clear, we will never let the Hancock Bridge and the Hancock

01:03:20.619 --> 01:03:22.820
Vidoc go at the same time.

01:03:22.820 --> 01:03:25.079
One will have to be complete before the other can start.

01:03:25.079 --> 01:03:29.260
We have to have emergency access and resident access either way.

01:03:29.260 --> 01:03:30.739
So our plan is to do the Vidoc.

01:03:30.739 --> 01:03:32.340
There is an emergency exit?

01:03:32.340 --> 01:03:34.860
Well, there will be.

01:03:34.860 --> 01:03:36.360
It'll be either the bridge or the Vidoc.

01:03:36.360 --> 01:03:40.559
We plan to get the bridge done first and that's why the bridge letting is going to push to

01:03:40.559 --> 01:03:41.559
next year.

01:03:41.559 --> 01:03:42.559
Got you.

01:03:42.559 --> 01:03:43.559
Right?

01:03:43.559 --> 01:03:44.559
So excuse me, I think I said it wrong.

01:03:44.559 --> 01:03:49.000
We're planning to get the BIDOC done first and the bridge letting is being pushed to

01:03:49.000 --> 01:03:50.000
next year.

01:03:50.000 --> 01:03:51.000
Okay.

01:03:51.000 --> 01:03:52.000
All right.

01:03:52.000 --> 01:03:56.679
Number 15, update on the grant for the bike path in collaboration with the Highland Community

01:03:56.679 --> 01:04:02.480
College and Park District, Alderman Stacey and Alderman Simmons.

01:04:02.480 --> 01:04:16.130
Yes. We had all this information pertaining to a new back path that wanted to be done

01:04:16.130 --> 01:04:20.929
out in the Highland area. I think it was even going to take you all the way around down

01:04:20.929 --> 01:04:29.529
to Culver's. And it was affiliated with the City of Freeport, the Park District, and Highland.

01:04:29.529 --> 01:04:41.269
It was voted down at one point, however, it was brought back and passed.

01:04:41.269 --> 01:04:45.789
So we've heard nothing.

01:04:45.789 --> 01:04:55.309
And I would like some information on where we're at with this bike path.

01:04:55.309 --> 01:04:56.529
Just be happy to answer that.

01:04:56.529 --> 01:05:01.730
So at the end of May, the city was notified that we did not receive the grant for the

01:05:01.730 --> 01:05:07.029
ITEP grant that would pay for the project.

01:05:07.029 --> 01:05:12.909
In addition to that, no one in Northern Illinois received any ITEP money for walk-ride infrastructure

01:05:12.909 --> 01:05:16.190
and our next opportunity for that will be in 2026.

01:05:16.190 --> 01:05:20.420
All right, number 16.

01:05:20.420 --> 01:05:21.420
Hold it.

01:05:21.420 --> 01:05:22.420
Yes.

01:05:22.420 --> 01:05:23.420
Oh, go ahead, Larry.

01:05:23.420 --> 01:05:24.420
Alderman Sanders.

01:05:24.420 --> 01:05:26.260
What year did you say that would be?

01:05:26.260 --> 01:05:29.579
2026 will be the next opportunity to bid.

01:05:29.579 --> 01:05:40.300
Okay, and that would be revised or yeah, the grant proposition would be revised for that

01:05:40.300 --> 01:05:42.300
particular project?

01:05:42.300 --> 01:05:46.779
It would be revised as far as dates and so on, but it would come back to the council?

01:05:46.779 --> 01:05:47.779
Yes.

01:05:47.779 --> 01:05:48.779
Okay.

01:05:48.779 --> 01:05:49.779
That's what I wanted to know.

01:05:49.779 --> 01:05:53.760
It will come back to the council as a new question?

01:05:53.760 --> 01:05:59.480
When the opportunity comes around in 2026, we'll go back around to all our partners

01:05:59.480 --> 01:06:04.519
and make sure everybody wants to be a part of it again, in which time, if everybody approves,

01:06:04.519 --> 01:06:06.000
then we will move forward with it.

01:06:06.000 --> 01:06:09.400
If they don't approve, then that won't happen.

01:06:09.400 --> 01:06:12.119
But it would like to be a new agenda item.

01:06:12.119 --> 01:06:13.119
Yeah.

01:06:13.119 --> 01:06:14.119
Yes.

01:06:14.119 --> 01:06:15.119
Yeah.

01:06:15.119 --> 01:06:20.559
Number 16, update on the property at 521 West Cottonwood that was transferred to the land

01:06:20.559 --> 01:06:35.610
I keep getting phone calls from a neighbor in Cottonwood inquiring that nothing is being

01:06:35.610 --> 01:06:42.500
done with this property that we gave to the land bank.

01:06:42.500 --> 01:06:46.679
And I'm just wondering what is really going on.

01:06:46.679 --> 01:06:53.179
Is there someone out there that's going to remodel this home?

01:06:53.179 --> 01:07:01.840
after they were given the property, weren't they allowed nine months to complete this project?

01:07:01.840 --> 01:07:14.639
We can handle this on a phone call, but the city transferred 521 West Cottonwood to Northern Illinois Land Bank in December of 2024.

01:07:14.639 --> 01:07:22.920
The Northern Illinois Land Bank transferred the property to Ivan Silver in May 29th, 2025.

01:07:22.920 --> 01:07:27.119
I've been is under contract to complete the renovation of this property in nine

01:07:27.119 --> 01:07:35.679
months with a deadline of February 28th, 2026. Okay, you're going too fast. Okay, well you said May 29th, what

01:07:35.679 --> 01:07:43.710
happened? The property was transferred to the contractor in on May 29th. So Ivan's

01:07:43.710 --> 01:07:49.130
got till February 28th to get it done of 26 and the Northern Illinois Land Bank

01:07:49.130 --> 01:07:53.809
has the authority to reclaim the property from Mr. Silver if he does not

01:07:53.809 --> 01:08:18.689
I don't doubt that, City Manager Boyer, but when I'm getting calls and questions about

01:08:18.689 --> 01:08:25.930
products such as this, I like for the people to hear it directly from you.

01:08:25.930 --> 01:08:26.930
and Stacey.

01:08:26.930 --> 01:08:27.930
That's why I bring it to the council floor.

01:08:27.930 --> 01:08:34.720
You can give them my phone number and they can hear it directly from me also.

01:08:34.720 --> 01:08:44.239
Okay, so this was like an item that shouldn't have never happened or Dovie, I'm talking

01:08:44.239 --> 01:08:48.000
to City Manager Boyer.

01:08:48.000 --> 01:08:51.960
I would say we could handle this with a phone call.

01:08:51.960 --> 01:08:53.720
Wayne's going to answer that too.

01:08:53.720 --> 01:08:58.659
I would just say most requests like that, older persons, Stacy, most older persons including

01:08:58.659 --> 01:09:00.659
Do you have a question for me?

01:09:00.659 --> 01:09:23.659
If there's a problem property, do call me and ask about it, if there's a problem property, and then I'll, if it's not addressed, I'll direct it to one of our inspectors to look at, but yeah, I've talked with you about properties in the past, and pretty much every other person up here, so I think what City Manager Boyer is saying is, is you could certainly call me, or, you know, City Manager Boyer would probably direct that question to me to answer.

01:09:23.659 --> 01:09:31.420
and I did direct this person to you and I did even give them your number and when

01:09:31.420 --> 01:09:37.659
he said item number 16 I was looking at you but you weren't looking at me so

01:09:37.659 --> 01:09:45.859
he's the manager that's why I looked at him I didn't care who answered right so

01:09:45.859 --> 01:09:49.819
as I said before you're always welcome

01:09:49.819 --> 01:10:02.000
So, as I said before, you're always welcome to call me. I always respond to calls. I think any other person here can say, hey, I've had a problem with the property. I send it to Wayne or talk to him, email, phone, text message, and I get back quickly on that.

01:10:02.000 --> 01:10:16.000
I think this is exciting for the City of Freeport, just to be honest. There are many properties here that either get demolished or sit vacant and this is really a good thing so I'm excited to see what this developer is going to do with the property.

01:10:16.000 --> 01:10:26.000
But in the future, if you wanted to, obviously, City Manager Boyer is my direct report so certainly if you have questions on a property I think what he's saying is to give him a call.

01:10:26.000 --> 01:10:31.000
I directed them to you because I know this is your baby.

01:10:31.000 --> 01:10:37.479
yeah yeah no I appreciate that perfect job but I wanted them to hear because I

01:10:37.479 --> 01:10:42.039
don't know if they're here tonight if not hopefully they're listening and they're

01:10:42.039 --> 01:10:48.680
getting it directly from him and I'm not feeding no one a line did we find out

01:10:48.680 --> 01:10:54.279
about you can't answer that but just like the trailer that was placed on that

01:10:54.279 --> 01:11:24.279
and Stacey, all updates are best served with efficiency by simple picking up a phone or coming to the meetings that our city manager, myself, have opened to you. So if you want to go that route, because if we actually spent an update on every single one of those updates, we would have been able to do that. We would have been able to do that. We would have been able to do that.

01:11:24.279 --> 01:11:31.279
We have a question that came across our desk. We would be sitting here in council meetings forever, but that's not the purpose of council meetings.

01:11:31.279 --> 01:11:35.279
It's to address the legislative portions of things, the policies, not updates.

01:11:35.279 --> 01:11:42.279
So updates are really best served with the discussion in our offices.

01:11:42.279 --> 01:11:52.279
Okay. I can respect that. But with that being said, we got to work extra hard on the trust factor.

01:11:52.279 --> 01:11:57.279
and the damage that has been done in that area,

01:11:58.840 --> 01:12:01.239
because that's huge to me.

01:12:01.239 --> 01:12:05.439
And so I don't wanna argue, you didn't say this,

01:12:05.439 --> 01:12:08.199
I said that, no you didn't, yes I did.

01:12:08.199 --> 01:12:10.060
I don't want that either.

01:12:10.060 --> 01:12:12.760
That doesn't look good on the floor either.

01:12:14.199 --> 01:12:18.000
So I guess as we all work on the trust factor

01:12:18.000 --> 01:12:23.000
and rebuilding communication, it will get better.

01:12:23.520 --> 01:12:24.880
Hold a minute, the answer.

01:12:26.220 --> 01:12:27.880
Well, I was just wondering if, you know,

01:12:27.880 --> 01:12:30.000
the people that are asking you questions,

01:12:30.000 --> 01:12:33.760
if they called directly or talked directly

01:12:33.760 --> 01:12:38.479
with Manager Boyer or with any of the people on the council,

01:12:38.479 --> 01:12:40.720
they would have, the trust vaster would be there

01:12:40.720 --> 01:12:42.960
then they would tell that person.

01:12:42.960 --> 01:12:45.159
The answer, you know, you said you had people in your ward

01:12:45.159 --> 01:12:46.880
or people that were calling you,

01:12:46.880 --> 01:12:50.840
have them directly call or get in touch with Manager Boyer

01:12:50.840 --> 01:12:52.220
or Mr. Duckman?

01:12:52.220 --> 01:12:53.119
I did.

01:12:53.119 --> 01:12:53.960
Okay.

01:12:53.960 --> 01:12:56.199
And did those people get in touch with them?

01:12:56.199 --> 01:12:57.720
To my knowledge, yes.

01:12:57.720 --> 01:12:59.979
And they got their answers?

01:12:59.979 --> 01:13:02.579
No.

01:13:03.640 --> 01:13:07.699
And then when Duckman and I spoke,

01:13:07.699 --> 01:13:11.079
there was still some unanswered questions

01:13:11.079 --> 01:13:14.119
like a trailer that had been moved onto that property

01:13:14.119 --> 01:13:16.479
that they didn't even know who it belonged to.

01:13:16.479 --> 01:13:19.720
so why is someone just looking at this open space

01:13:19.720 --> 01:13:21.920
thinking they could put their trailer there?

01:13:23.039 --> 01:13:26.039
So no, it didn't go away, it kind of got bigger.

01:13:27.159 --> 01:13:28.279
Okay, okay.

01:13:28.279 --> 01:13:33.279
But I did my part with directing like I was supposed to.

01:13:34.399 --> 01:13:37.539
Number 17, update on the performance

01:13:37.539 --> 01:13:40.680
of McGuire Woods Consulting LLC

01:13:40.680 --> 01:13:46.560
presented by Alderman Stacy and Alderman Simmons.

01:13:46.560 --> 01:13:48.859
We paid all this money for a lobbyist.

01:13:53.939 --> 01:14:18.729
and it's been over a year, have no updates, have no knowledge of understanding of what they have or have not done for us and so I would really appreciate an update.

01:14:18.729 --> 01:14:34.729
I'd be happy to speak to that. McGuire Woods, again, is our lobbyist. They have been working hard at state level to secure funding for projects that we've identified as priorities as we move forward, looking for help on all those, as well as any federal opportunities.

01:14:34.729 --> 01:14:47.729
We receive a monthly newsletter and an update from them, I would say about every week, and as of right now, we're working in several areas, but no specific grants have been identified as of yet.

01:14:47.729 --> 01:15:16.060
Okay, and so this is costing us $90,000 a year, $72,000 a year. How many years do we continue if nothing comes forth? I mean, do you know what we could do with $72,000 on our streets?

01:15:16.060 --> 01:15:24.340
I'm guessing about 50 maybe 100 feet but I would say we're going to be reviewing

01:15:24.340 --> 01:15:29.579
the progress and I think we need to sit down and decide whether we're

01:15:29.579 --> 01:15:33.260
going to continue to move forward with this or not. I will also highlight the

01:15:33.260 --> 01:15:38.500
fact that lobbying is not a linear process and it also requires certain

01:15:38.500 --> 01:15:42.699
opportunities and people to be there during those opportunities. So in this

01:15:42.699 --> 01:15:51.699
is a particular environment, very difficult with federal funding being cut in many different areas, so it is a bit of a challenge, but we're continuing to manage it.

01:15:51.699 --> 01:15:56.699
City Manager Boyer, was that a smart comment when you said 100 feet?

01:15:56.699 --> 01:16:00.699
I was trying to answer your question, yeah, it's about 100 linear feet.

01:16:03.390 --> 01:16:06.390
Holderman Sanders?

01:16:06.390 --> 01:16:14.390
Yeah, I did. That kind of threw me off for a second.

01:16:14.390 --> 01:16:19.390
and let me recapture my visual thought.

01:16:19.869 --> 01:16:24.149
Did we as council, city manager,

01:16:27.149 --> 01:16:31.270
voted to allow them to operate on our behalf?

01:16:31.270 --> 01:16:32.109
Yes.

01:16:32.109 --> 01:16:32.949
We did?

01:16:32.949 --> 01:16:34.350
Okay, that's all I wanted to know.

01:16:34.350 --> 01:16:36.409
Number 18 is public comment.

01:16:37.829 --> 01:16:38.949
Any public comment?

01:16:40.789 --> 01:16:42.750
Well, get the first row and then we'll go second,

01:16:42.750 --> 01:16:43.949
third row, fourth row.

01:16:44.390 --> 01:17:16.439
I just want to say that I was noticing at my street, my neighborhood, there's a lot of people with three-wheelers, young kids with three-wheelers, I did mention it to him about it, and also I wanted to say that there's still work to be done on our street because they haven't done no water works on the street yet, the water's not really the tastiest water in the world, so I just want to say that.

01:17:16.439 --> 01:17:25.020
Can you state your name for the record? David Cobertson. David, what was that location?

01:17:25.979 --> 01:17:33.260
It's over on Wrangell Street. The road is really bad. It's like you can you can go like a sandbox

01:17:33.260 --> 01:17:38.060
out of it. The road. The three-wheelers. Yeah, the three-wheelers. Yeah, there's a whole bunch

01:17:38.060 --> 01:17:43.739
of kids with three-wheelers riding three-wheelers like youngest age of like 11 and 15. And they're

01:17:43.739 --> 01:17:55.899
and they're riding on Ringgold and they're riding on Ringgold also it's really

01:17:55.899 --> 01:18:01.199
dangerous I worry about them I don't want nothing happen the poor kids I wish they

01:18:01.199 --> 01:18:05.939
would stop it I want to see anybody get hurt in front of me that would tear me

01:18:05.939 --> 01:18:10.859
apart hmm thank you any other public comments

01:18:10.859 --> 01:18:37.289
Wendy? Good evening, City of Freeport. Council? Good evening. Those in elected officials? Good evening. I am 1323 South Chicago Avenue. My name is Wendy Pearson. I'd like to make a couple come here.

01:18:37.289 --> 01:18:51.729
I listened to Mr. Brown today speak. I was at the hospital with my son. Saturday the day of the March I was at a funeral for a relative in Chicago. Had I not been there, I would have been at that march.

01:18:51.729 --> 01:18:57.350
just as I was at the first one and yes I said it was a joke not this one the

01:18:57.350 --> 01:19:01.529
second one and if he was scouring people's Facebook pages he would have

01:19:01.529 --> 01:19:07.970
seen that I said that I was proud of him for this weekend. Now I said it before and

01:19:07.970 --> 01:19:14.369
I'll say it again the first March was a joke it was a joke simply because the

01:19:14.369 --> 01:19:19.809
day before that Friday there were shootings in the 700 block of Liberty

01:19:19.809 --> 01:19:25.829
There were shootings in the 900 block of Carroll. The march happened the next day.

01:19:26.109 --> 01:19:28.350
We started at the old Germania lot.

01:19:28.569 --> 01:19:33.550
We went down Adams Pass, the Raggedy Rowling building, back down to the Germania lot,

01:19:33.989 --> 01:19:41.090
downtown and back to the Germania lot. We never went into the communities where there were shootings and deaths.

01:19:41.590 --> 01:19:45.569
He says that he has a list of all the people that have been murdered in this town.

01:19:45.569 --> 01:19:52.100
I'm going to go back to the 1980s where the two white brothers were murdered on the west

01:19:52.100 --> 01:20:01.060
east side of town, bound, gagged, tied up, beaten, and house shed on fire.

01:20:01.060 --> 01:20:04.500
These murders have been going on in this town since the 80s.

01:20:04.500 --> 01:20:06.819
This particular one has never been solved.

01:20:06.819 --> 01:20:08.979
Scott has never been solved.

01:20:08.979 --> 01:20:12.640
So before he starts talking about the people that he's got on the list, go all the way

01:20:12.640 --> 01:20:13.640
Brown.

01:20:13.640 --> 01:20:19.319
Before he was even involved, before he was thought of, it has been happening in this

01:20:19.319 --> 01:20:20.319
town forever.

01:20:20.319 --> 01:20:23.279
Now, I've helped to organize marches.

01:20:23.279 --> 01:20:29.800
I've been involved with peace marches from Chicago to Springfield to Washington, D.C.

01:20:29.800 --> 01:20:31.560
to Freeport, Illinois.

01:20:31.560 --> 01:20:36.399
Not once has Mr. Brown reached out to any of us to help with what he's doing.

01:20:36.399 --> 01:20:38.960
I don't have anything against anything that anybody's doing.

01:20:38.960 --> 01:20:40.960
I'm actually, I'm pretty happy about it.

01:20:40.960 --> 01:20:46.960
and I'm going to tell you why I'm happy about it because I'm sick of the city of Freakwood being on my shoulder.

01:20:46.960 --> 01:20:48.960
Hey, you don't have to do it.

01:20:48.960 --> 01:20:58.960
As far as anybody else is concerned, anybody that wants to do something in this town, anybody can tell you that I've been supportive of anything that was positive that was going on in this town and I will continue to be that way.

01:20:58.960 --> 01:21:05.960
I have spoken continuously about our young people picking up the mantle and I'm still saying the same thing.

01:21:05.960 --> 01:21:07.960
Our young people need to pick up the mantle.

01:21:07.960 --> 01:21:09.960
We need to be in the streets.

01:21:09.960 --> 01:21:13.859
We don't need to be against each other and talking crazy, but I'm gonna tell you something else.

01:21:14.520 --> 01:21:19.760
Mr. Brown was in my face two weeks ago at a party. What he had to say, he could have said it to me.

01:21:20.159 --> 01:21:24.920
I don't have a problem with saying anything to anybody in their face, okay?

01:21:25.119 --> 01:21:25.720
Thank you.

01:21:25.720 --> 01:21:29.640
I just want to put it out there and I want to make it very clear. That's why it's a joke.

01:21:29.640 --> 01:21:31.199
Anybody else?

01:21:31.199 --> 01:21:33.920
Come on up. Oh, I'm sorry.

01:21:35.039 --> 01:21:37.039
Yeah, she stood up too.

01:21:37.039 --> 01:21:44.220
My name is Janelle Fokers. I've been a dispatcher for the Freeport Police

01:21:44.220 --> 01:21:48.140
Department for the past seven and a half years. My co-worker spoke to you recently

01:21:48.140 --> 01:21:52.539
on some of the changes to our working conditions and protocols. I believe I need

01:21:52.539 --> 01:21:55.659
to reiterate some of the concerns and update you on a new change that has been

01:21:55.659 --> 01:22:00.180
implemented in the last three weeks since she addressed you. We continue to

01:22:00.180 --> 01:22:03.100
work alone in the room on shifts that are not fully staffed and at times where

01:22:03.100 --> 01:22:06.979
employees are enjoying much-needed vacation time. As you can imagine, this

01:22:06.979 --> 01:22:10.699
Thomas puts significant pressure on the only person actively working in the room.

01:22:10.699 --> 01:22:16.180
Yes, there are two people on duty, but at times only one actively handling all the phone

01:22:16.180 --> 01:22:21.180
calls, both 911 and non-emergency, radio traffic, and assisting the public coming into the lobby

01:22:21.180 --> 01:22:22.859
during that time.

01:22:22.859 --> 01:22:26.819
One person handling all of that alone puts a substantial risk not only on the public

01:22:26.819 --> 01:22:30.739
and the dispatcher, but also the police, fire, and EMS personnel responding to these potentially

01:22:30.739 --> 01:22:36.939
life-threatening scenarios, which leads to the most recent change that we have been told

01:22:36.939 --> 01:22:43.739
is a process that we're expected to follow. Currently when all of our city ambulance is on a call

01:22:43.739 --> 01:22:48.699
and there is a need for additional ambulance, the fire department will request a mutual aid ambulance.

01:22:48.699 --> 01:22:54.460
The closest ambulance service to dispatch requires a phone call versus radio contact

01:22:54.460 --> 01:22:59.659
to request an ambulance. We have been directed to put our in-progress 911 call on hold.

01:22:59.659 --> 01:23:06.060
Yes, you heard me correctly. All the 911 call from your loved one panicked and scared

01:23:06.060 --> 01:23:11.659
because they need help administering CPR has to be placed on hold which stops any and all communication

01:23:11.659 --> 01:23:17.180
between the person in need and the dispatcher trained to help them until help can physically

01:23:17.180 --> 01:23:21.500
arrive on scene. This goes against everything I've been trained to do in my entire career and is a

01:23:21.500 --> 01:23:27.659
huge liability to everyone involved. Callers, responders, the city and dispatchers all alike

01:23:27.659 --> 01:23:32.699
and completely against my moral belief. I love what I do and want to help not only my loved ones

01:23:32.699 --> 01:23:36.720
Huffines, but yours on what could potentially be the worst day of their life. Putting their

01:23:36.720 --> 01:23:42.840
911 call on hold is completely unacceptable to me. With that said, I encourage each one

01:23:42.840 --> 01:23:46.859
of you to come spend time in the 911 Center with us. Learn what we do, ask questions so

01:23:46.859 --> 01:23:51.699
you can understand why we are so passionate about what we do and are so concerned about

01:23:51.699 --> 01:23:56.720
the added liability to ourselves, the city, and the safety of our officers and fire personnel.

01:23:56.720 --> 01:23:57.720
Thank you.

01:23:57.720 --> 01:24:03.270
Thank you.

01:24:03.270 --> 01:24:04.270
Come on up.

01:24:04.270 --> 01:24:05.270
Yep.

01:24:05.270 --> 01:24:22.119
Okay, that's a first. I'm going to take the mask off. My name is Sue Cook and I am on

01:24:22.119 --> 01:24:29.000
Winchester Drive in Freeport, Illinois. I am stunned to hear what she just said because

01:24:29.000 --> 01:24:36.039
I have written something to talk about the exact same thing. 911 is very, very critical.

01:24:36.039 --> 01:24:40.800
I worked in the hospital. I worked in x-ray. I know, I worked in the ER. I know how critical

01:24:40.800 --> 01:24:48.000
Newell, 9-1-1 is. These people deserve our respect and they deserve our care. They deserve

01:24:48.000 --> 01:24:56.720
our kindness and our care. And I just want to give them a round of applause. I know this

01:24:56.720 --> 01:25:02.560
is taking some of my minutes, but they have saved my husband's life three times. And I

01:25:02.560 --> 01:25:09.880
cannot believe that the golden age of Freeport is going to be ushered in with possibly not

01:25:09.880 --> 01:25:17.800
a 9-1-1 center. I don't know if the ASME contract has been signed. I don't know if you've signed

01:25:17.800 --> 01:25:22.399
anything with the critical people in the unions, but this is important for Freeport. We need

01:25:22.399 --> 01:25:27.399
this. If 9-1-1 goes away, are you just going to send it over to the Stuart Center for their

01:25:27.399 --> 01:25:34.239
call center to answer? So we really, really, everybody in here has probably been touched

01:25:34.239 --> 01:25:42.960
by 9-1-1. Your family, your loved ones, your friend, my husband, if you care about 9-1-1,

01:25:42.960 --> 01:25:49.960
raise your hands. Raise your hands. That is 9-1-1 strong. That's union strong. There's

01:25:49.960 --> 01:25:53.439
only one other thing if I have any time left and I'm going to say this because it's number

01:25:53.439 --> 01:25:57.760
15 on the last agenda. I'm going to talk really fast and that is that we're paying $12,000

01:25:57.760 --> 01:26:03.000
for vision boards. If you're going to be setting up goals for the councilmen and you're going

01:26:03.000 --> 01:26:15.300
Mayer. Mayor, you are a visionary. If you are the visionary, then you should be able

01:26:15.300 --> 01:26:21.840
to hold that meeting with the councilman and bring in what you need for your goals and

01:26:21.840 --> 01:26:27.920
what you want Freeport to achieve with them. You don't need $12,000. That $12,000 can go

01:26:27.920 --> 01:26:34.479
Go to support the 9-1-1 people. You don't need that. Pull that $12,000 back. Be the

01:26:34.479 --> 01:26:40.840
visionary that you claim to be. Take your people, show them Pinterest, and say, vision

01:26:40.840 --> 01:26:45.380
board. If you have a mobile phone and can download Pinterest, it's free. It's an app.

01:26:45.380 --> 01:26:50.199
If you don't, plain old whiteboard like you used to do for the old science fairs. Stick

01:26:50.199 --> 01:26:54.279
up magazine pictures and say, here's my goal. This is what we want to achieve. There you

01:26:54.279 --> 01:26:55.760
go.

01:26:55.760 --> 01:27:02.279
Thank you very much for letting me speak, and I'm going to put my mask on, and that

01:27:02.279 --> 01:27:03.279
was a first.

01:27:03.279 --> 01:27:04.279
Thank you.

01:27:04.279 --> 01:27:16.800
You know, I really wasn't even aware that we were talking about 9-1-1, or...

01:27:16.800 --> 01:27:17.800
Your name?

01:27:17.800 --> 01:27:18.800
Makaya Stacey.

01:27:18.800 --> 01:27:24.720
We know who I am, anyway.

01:27:24.720 --> 01:27:26.159
I don't really understand what's going on.

01:27:26.159 --> 01:27:34.000
I was at work, but if we're talking about defunding our police call center, I'm going to be very

01:27:34.000 --> 01:27:35.399
blunt with you.

01:27:35.399 --> 01:27:38.539
I was a victim of domestic violence last Sunday.

01:27:38.539 --> 01:27:43.039
And if it hadn't have been for the call center officer,

01:27:43.039 --> 01:27:44.960
I believe her name is Sanchez.

01:27:44.960 --> 01:27:46.579
I hope I'm saying that right.

01:27:46.579 --> 01:27:50.640
And the other officers that answered that call,

01:27:50.640 --> 01:27:51.500
I wouldn't be here.

01:27:51.500 --> 01:27:53.119
And this isn't the first time that it's happened

01:27:53.119 --> 01:27:54.100
with that person.

01:27:55.180 --> 01:27:57.039
And I know right now we're really focused

01:27:57.039 --> 01:28:00.140
on the gun violence in Freeport because it's loud

01:28:00.140 --> 01:28:02.659
and it hurts and everybody hears it,

01:28:02.659 --> 01:28:05.380
whether it was the gunshot or on social media,

01:28:05.380 --> 01:28:08.579
and people's families are being torn apart.

01:28:08.579 --> 01:28:10.579
But I'm not the first one.

01:28:10.579 --> 01:28:13.979
There was a young woman, Gabby, a couple years ago

01:28:13.979 --> 01:28:16.659
that was murdered by her boyfriend.

01:28:18.460 --> 01:28:20.859
I have personal friends from a year ago

01:28:20.859 --> 01:28:23.500
when I was living in Iowa who would send me pictures

01:28:23.500 --> 01:28:26.359
of the bruises this man was inflicting,

01:28:26.359 --> 01:28:29.100
show me videos of him screaming at her,

01:28:29.100 --> 01:28:32.180
show me texts of just the verbal abuse.

01:28:32.180 --> 01:28:33.180
She took him to court.

01:28:33.180 --> 01:28:35.899
He sat behind bars for two months.

01:28:35.899 --> 01:28:40.880
And when I walk into my own gym, that man is standing there.

01:28:40.880 --> 01:28:44.140
And I don't really know what to do with this.

01:28:44.140 --> 01:28:46.020
There's just so much crime in Freeport.

01:28:46.020 --> 01:28:49.559
And like I said, I know that gun violence is loud

01:28:49.559 --> 01:28:52.340
and it's fast, but we need to really focus on

01:28:52.340 --> 01:28:54.500
all of the violence in Freeport.

01:28:54.500 --> 01:28:55.979
It's not just about guns.

01:28:57.340 --> 01:28:59.300
I shouldn't have to worry about

01:28:59.300 --> 01:29:01.500
where I'm gonna lay my head at night

01:29:01.500 --> 01:29:03.100
because that man can get to me.

01:29:03.619 --> 01:29:09.119
We shouldn't have to worry about our kids riding their bikes. I shouldn't have to worry about my nephew's baseball game.

01:29:09.119 --> 01:29:17.119
I shouldn't be on edge in Walmart. I shouldn't be concerned for the kids down at Center School playing in the park over there.

01:29:17.119 --> 01:29:24.619
I shouldn't be worried about going to Crate Park, having a cookout with my friends, and constantly looking around to see what everyone else is doing.

01:29:24.619 --> 01:29:32.119
We're doing a good job. These marches are good. It brings awareness, but now we need some action. Thank you.

01:29:32.119 --> 01:29:44.020
Thank you. Anyone else? Tommy? Didn't even see you.

01:29:44.020 --> 01:29:53.000
Tyke. I want to tell Craig Duggan, he does a good job in that. Police Department in Freeport?

01:29:53.000 --> 01:30:04.000
And Drain Duggan? Yes. Did you hear they're going to tear down the cleaners? I did. Then

01:30:04.000 --> 01:30:10.640
when? This fall. Oh, this fall. And I want to tell Jodi Miller, he does a good job of

01:30:10.640 --> 01:30:21.199
the Mayor, Freeport, and my name was on Channel 23 News. Did you see it? You can put it on

01:30:21.199 --> 01:30:24.199
YouTube if it's on YouTube.

01:30:24.199 --> 01:30:27.199
Okay. Young lady in the pink sweatshirt.

01:30:27.199 --> 01:30:39.109
I'm Kiah Sanders. I want to speak on, I think it's a bad idea to have what is it, majority

01:30:39.109 --> 01:30:45.029
rules, only because I'll never see Parker and all these other little peck of whatever

01:30:45.029 --> 01:30:46.029
Parker.

01:30:46.029 --> 01:31:10.229
We have a reason to have the people in that area speak up for us because that stuff is

01:31:10.229 --> 01:31:12.630
is really happening, really affecting people.

01:31:12.630 --> 01:31:14.310
Most of the killings are over there.

01:31:14.310 --> 01:31:18.310
We losing our whole living space due to the fact

01:31:18.310 --> 01:31:19.710
that y'all have underlying agendas

01:31:19.710 --> 01:31:21.350
that y'all don't think we know about.

01:31:21.350 --> 01:31:23.189
That's what I'm gonna say about that.

01:31:23.189 --> 01:31:24.350
Another thing that I've been watched

01:31:24.350 --> 01:31:28.449
since I've been to this meeting is bullying.

01:31:28.449 --> 01:31:30.149
I'm gonna say it, I'm a factual, I'm not negative,

01:31:30.149 --> 01:31:31.270
I'm factual.

01:31:31.270 --> 01:31:35.949
Whatever y'all got going, whatever Sanders got going on,

01:31:35.949 --> 01:31:37.710
I ain't seen nobody offer to help him.

01:31:37.710 --> 01:31:39.789
I seen a lot of y'all laughing.

01:31:39.789 --> 01:31:41.689
and then as soon as Will spoke on

01:31:41.689 --> 01:31:43.229
how we need to lead the youth,

01:31:43.229 --> 01:31:45.789
we have a youth in this room right now

01:31:45.789 --> 01:31:47.750
that as soon as something happened with Sanders,

01:31:47.750 --> 01:31:50.630
he watched every one of you adults laughed

01:31:50.630 --> 01:31:53.630
instead of trying to help the situation.

01:31:53.630 --> 01:31:55.550
Obviously he didn't understand something,

01:31:55.550 --> 01:31:57.510
get some clarity, help him out.

01:31:57.510 --> 01:31:59.789
That's some real childish stuff the child doing.

01:31:59.789 --> 01:32:01.149
Y'all got him watching laughing

01:32:01.149 --> 01:32:02.909
and this is the person that y'all supposed to be

01:32:02.909 --> 01:32:05.229
leading as a youth council member.

01:32:05.229 --> 01:32:07.970
Crazy, it's real crazy.

01:32:07.970 --> 01:32:09.970
So it starts by who, us.

01:32:09.970 --> 01:32:11.850
He had to listen to who.

01:32:11.850 --> 01:32:12.930
And then let me tell you something else.

01:32:12.930 --> 01:32:16.289
Sanders is smart enough, smart enough

01:32:16.289 --> 01:32:17.609
to not been a chief of police

01:32:17.609 --> 01:32:21.649
and vote a domestic battery drunk on any commission.

01:32:21.649 --> 01:32:23.569
He has not put his hands on nobody.

01:32:23.569 --> 01:32:25.970
He has not called nobody names at all.

01:32:25.970 --> 01:32:27.810
He is asking for clarity

01:32:27.810 --> 01:32:31.659
about things that he don't understand.

01:32:31.659 --> 01:32:33.859
I ain't seen nobody help him for that.

01:32:33.859 --> 01:32:35.460
And then Rob, you sit up here and act like that,

01:32:35.460 --> 01:32:36.340
little money grow on trees.

01:32:36.340 --> 01:32:37.180
That goes back to when we was,

01:32:37.180 --> 01:33:14.600
Johnson, Johnston, Youdis, Sanders,

01:33:14.600 --> 01:33:23.560
President, Dorsey,

01:33:23.560 --> 01:33:27.279
Mayor, because don't tell me you don't say that, whatever, but you do.

01:33:27.279 --> 01:33:30.439
And Rob, I have tried to call you twice.

01:33:30.439 --> 01:33:34.680
I would really like a phone call back.

01:33:34.680 --> 01:33:39.359
You say you answer your phone, but no.

01:33:39.359 --> 01:33:42.279
So I will expect a phone call tomorrow from you.

01:33:42.279 --> 01:33:43.279
Thank you.

01:33:43.279 --> 01:33:48.189
Mr. Brown?

01:33:48.189 --> 01:33:51.750
Yeah, I just wanted to come up again.

01:33:51.750 --> 01:33:54.510
One of my youngest reached out to me.

01:33:54.510 --> 01:33:57.069
Forgive me my passion speak.

01:33:57.069 --> 01:34:04.510
So I want to send a shout out to all my youngins at Banks-Brigana, Pearl City, and West Carroll

01:34:04.510 --> 01:34:08.029
and ask you all to come out to the Boys and Girls Club.

01:34:08.029 --> 01:34:14.789
I also ask anybody in the community that want to step up and be a coach, step back, Basketball

01:34:14.789 --> 01:34:18.829
League is looking for five coaches, come out and support the youth.

01:34:18.829 --> 01:34:21.270
And to Wendy, God bless you.

01:34:21.270 --> 01:34:28.329
I'll take that burden.

01:34:28.329 --> 01:34:29.329
Anything else?

01:34:29.329 --> 01:34:30.329
Okay.

01:34:30.329 --> 01:34:49.319
as I've said before I'll say again we start in prayer we can end in prayer

01:34:49.319 --> 01:34:57.359
father God in the name of Jesus we praise you and we thank you for this day for

01:34:57.359 --> 01:35:03.800
this is the day that you have made and we will continue to rejoice and be glad

01:35:03.800 --> 01:35:31.119
We look to you, O God, to the hills from which cometh our help. We need your leadership. We need your guidance. We need you to order our steps according to your word that we may be able to be all that we are called to be in these last and evil days.

01:35:31.119 --> 01:35:47.680
Lord Jesus, I decree and declare that Freeport will be what you created it to be, a Freeport.

01:35:47.680 --> 01:35:51.079
Not later, but right now.

01:35:51.079 --> 01:35:56.840
I decree we are free in the name of Jesus.

01:35:56.840 --> 01:36:01.500
Continue to lead us, guide us, speak to our hearts.

01:36:01.500 --> 01:36:05.100
May we see people through your eyes.

01:36:05.100 --> 01:36:16.550
May we understand who we are committed to and what we are supposed to do for the constituents

01:36:16.550 --> 01:36:20.399
of this city.

01:36:20.399 --> 01:36:25.720
These and other blessings, I pray in Jesus' name, giving you God all glory, honor and

01:36:25.720 --> 01:36:26.720
praise.

01:36:26.720 --> 01:36:27.720
Amen.

01:36:27.720 --> 01:36:37.270
Next, Wayne's agenda. Adjournment, I'm sorry. Motion to adjourn. Shadle, Simmons.

01:36:37.270 --> 01:36:43.750
Well, what about the, we don't do that here? Not for the cow, we don't. We don't go around to the cow.

01:36:43.750 --> 01:36:52.029
This is the cow? Yeah. You lucky. Yeah, I know I'm lucky. You make me lucky. All in favor say aye. You're lucky.

01:36:52.029 --> 01:36:54.029
Aye. Opposed?