WEBVTT 00:00:00.400 --> 00:00:30.379 We said a big crowd, they weren't kid-worthy. 00:00:30.379 --> 00:00:55.539 Good evening. Pastor Ramos, could you please give the invocation this evening? 00:00:55.539 --> 00:01:24.409 Good evening. I want to say thank you to allowing me to be here tonight. Thank you Mayor Jodi Miller and City Manager and all the City Council and everyone that's here, and our Chief of Police, of course. 00:01:24.409 --> 00:01:33.609 East. The Bible says in 1 Timothy chapter 2 verse 1 and 2, I urge then first of all 00:01:33.609 --> 00:01:39.709 that petitions, prayer, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings 00:01:39.709 --> 00:01:46.390 and all those in authority, that we may live peacefully and quiet lives in all godliness 00:01:46.390 --> 00:02:16.389 and in Jeremiah 29, 7 it says also seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you. Pray to the Lord for it, for if the city prosper, you too will prosper. Heavenly Father, we just thank you for the gifts and the community and the leaders you have placed in authority in this city. Grant the City Council wisdom and discernment 00:02:16.389 --> 00:02:18.990 to our Mayor's City Council members, 00:02:18.990 --> 00:02:23.949 as they deliberate on the important issues before them. 00:02:23.949 --> 00:02:28.270 May they seek the common good above personal gain, 00:02:28.270 --> 00:02:30.629 working together in harmony, 00:02:30.629 --> 00:02:34.430 even in amidst honest disagreement. 00:02:34.430 --> 00:02:37.810 Father, I pray for unity in this City Council. 00:02:37.810 --> 00:02:40.689 I pray, Father God, that you will cover the way 00:02:40.689 --> 00:02:43.889 that we speak, Father, that you will teach us, Lord, 00:02:43.889 --> 00:02:49.289 to be together that we can't disagree, but we can't disrespect. 00:02:49.289 --> 00:02:55.530 And so God, God, I thank you and I glorify you for this night in Jesus' mighty name. 00:02:55.530 --> 00:02:56.530 Amen. 00:02:56.530 --> 00:02:57.530 Amen. 00:02:57.530 --> 00:02:59.650 So we'll call this meeting to order. 00:02:59.650 --> 00:03:01.770 Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? 00:03:01.770 --> 00:03:02.770 Mayor Miller? 00:03:02.770 --> 00:03:03.770 Here. 00:03:03.770 --> 00:03:04.770 Alderpersons, Klemm? 00:03:04.770 --> 00:03:05.770 Here. 00:03:05.770 --> 00:03:06.770 Johnson? 00:03:06.770 --> 00:03:07.770 Here. 00:03:07.770 --> 00:03:08.770 Simmons? 00:03:08.770 --> 00:03:09.770 Here. 00:03:09.770 --> 00:03:10.770 Parker? 00:03:10.770 --> 00:03:11.770 Here. 00:03:11.770 --> 00:03:12.770 Stacy? 00:03:12.770 --> 00:03:13.770 Here. 00:03:13.770 --> 00:03:17.770 If you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Alderman Sellers. 00:03:17.770 --> 00:03:33.770 I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 00:03:33.770 --> 00:03:39.750 Item number one is the approval of the agenda. Is there such a motion? 00:03:39.750 --> 00:03:41.750 So moved. 00:03:41.750 --> 00:03:42.750 Second. 00:03:42.750 --> 00:03:48.909 We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm. All those in favor signify by saying aye. 00:03:48.909 --> 00:03:55.949 Aye. Opposed? That motion passes. Item number two is public comments, which there are none on on the 00:03:55.949 --> 00:04:01.229 agenda items. Item number three is approval from the minutes from the council meeting on December 1st 00:04:01.229 --> 00:04:07.150 and December 15th, 2025. Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. The motion made by 00:04:07.150 --> 00:04:15.669 Shadel, Alderman Sellers. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed? That motion 00:04:15.669 --> 00:04:18.790 passes. Item number four is a swearing in. 00:04:18.790 --> 00:04:56.839 I'm going to hand this one over to you so that everyone can use it. 00:04:56.839 --> 00:04:58.839 Thank you everyone for being here. 00:04:58.839 --> 00:05:03.459 No problem. 00:05:03.459 --> 00:05:05.459 Are we going to stop and dance for the rest of the video? 00:05:05.459 --> 00:05:07.459 Nope. 00:05:07.459 --> 00:05:09.459 Okay, I'll just keep on. 00:05:09.459 --> 00:05:11.459 Okay. 00:05:11.459 --> 00:05:13.459 If you can please raise your right hand and repeat after me. 00:05:13.459 --> 00:05:15.459 I, Jacqueline B. Frostow. 00:05:15.459 --> 00:05:17.459 I, Jacqueline B. Frostow. 00:05:17.459 --> 00:05:19.459 Having been appointed as the Chief of Police. 00:05:19.459 --> 00:05:21.459 Having been appointed as the Chief of Police. 00:05:21.459 --> 00:05:23.459 In the City of Freeport. 00:05:23.459 --> 00:05:44.660 and the County of Stevenson do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Illinois and I will faithfully discharge the duties of my appointment according to the best of my ability. 00:06:04.019 --> 00:06:14.019 Taylor, do you have anybody ready to take pictures for you? 00:06:14.019 --> 00:07:05.560 Wearing this in this uniform and wearing the badge is something that we do out of pride. 00:07:05.560 --> 00:07:12.600 and we come up and we wake up every day and we put this on to service the city of Freeport, 00:07:12.600 --> 00:07:17.560 to service the community, to service the residents. It's not about state color, 00:07:18.360 --> 00:07:25.560 it's not about how you look, it's not about gender. It is about making everyone here, everyone behind 00:07:25.560 --> 00:07:31.399 me, and everyone on that side of the building, this side over here, to ensure that we bridge 00:07:31.399 --> 00:07:35.720 Bridge, the relationship with my police officers and all of you. 00:07:35.720 --> 00:07:39.079 We are here to work together. 00:07:39.079 --> 00:07:47.519 And I am very grateful for the decision that Madam Jodi Miller and Rob, our city manager 00:07:47.519 --> 00:07:53.000 has made because what I can promise you and what my family can promise you is the fact 00:07:53.000 --> 00:07:58.680 that we are going to work together in service, we are going to work together in safety, and 00:07:58.680 --> 00:08:03.759 and we are going to work together in order to make sure that everyone is proud of the 00:08:03.759 --> 00:08:04.759 country. 00:08:04.759 --> 00:08:26.529 I thank you very much for the support and we're going to have a great rest of the day. 00:08:26.529 --> 00:08:28.810 Next we have a service recognition award. 00:08:28.810 --> 00:08:29.810 Pat Ingram. 00:08:29.810 --> 00:08:44.409 I'm Ken Wilkin. 00:08:44.409 --> 00:08:56.190 This is Ken's 20th year recognition. 00:08:56.190 --> 00:08:57.190 Ken is currently on the maintenance side of our utility prior to this. 00:08:57.190 --> 00:09:01.740 He was on our maintenance, water sewer construction tour. 00:09:01.740 --> 00:09:02.740 He was on our maintenance, water sewer construction tour. 00:09:02.740 --> 00:09:03.740 He was on our maintenance, water sewer construction tour. 00:09:03.740 --> 00:09:04.740 He was on our maintenance, water sewer construction tour. 00:09:04.740 --> 00:09:10.740 Ken is currently on the maintenance side of our utility prior to this. He was on our maintenance, 00:09:10.740 --> 00:09:18.340 water, sewer, construction crew. Ken brings in a vast wealth of knowledge and for the 00:09:18.340 --> 00:09:26.179 use of the utility side, he can do it all with a few ways. Ken is just always very kind-hearted, 00:09:26.179 --> 00:09:31.220 showing great leadership. Thanks for your point of service. 00:09:31.220 --> 00:09:47.419 Next is item number six, which are our annual employee recognitions. We'll start with Michelle. 00:10:07.330 --> 00:10:21.940 Today we have the privilege of recognizing someone who truly represents the very best 00:10:21.940 --> 00:10:24.659 of the City of Freeport's employees. 00:10:24.659 --> 00:10:29.980 The work we do in the Water and Sewer Billing Office is essential, often invisible and sometimes 00:10:29.980 --> 00:10:33.100 only noticed when something goes wrong. 00:10:33.100 --> 00:10:39.139 That makes the role of the customer service representative not just important, but vital. 00:10:39.139 --> 00:10:52.539 and this year's Utility Employee of the Year, Lucinda Lenore. 00:10:52.539 --> 00:10:55.860 She exemplifies that role in every possible way. 00:10:55.860 --> 00:11:00.580 Lucinda began her career with the Water, Sewer, Billing Department as an Assistant Billing 00:11:00.580 --> 00:11:04.500 Clerk in February of 2001. 00:11:04.500 --> 00:11:09.779 So that makes her 25 years with the city. 00:11:09.779 --> 00:11:13.899 Currently she holds a position of Customer Service Representative. 00:11:13.899 --> 00:11:19.240 As a water and sewer customer service representative, Lucinda is often the first voice our customers 00:11:19.240 --> 00:11:24.899 hear and the steady presence they rely on when they're confused, frustrated, or facing 00:11:24.899 --> 00:11:26.620 an urgent issue. 00:11:26.620 --> 00:11:33.379 Day after day, Lucinda handles complex billing questions, service disruptions, emergencies, 00:11:33.379 --> 00:11:38.399 and concerns with patience, clarity, and genuine care. 00:11:38.399 --> 00:11:42.259 What truly sets Lucinda apart is her commitment to service. 00:11:42.259 --> 00:11:45.539 She doesn't just resolve issues, she listens. 00:11:45.539 --> 00:11:48.360 She takes ownership and follows through. 00:11:48.360 --> 00:11:54.259 She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure customers feel heard, respected, and 00:11:54.259 --> 00:11:57.980 confident that their concerns matter. 00:11:57.980 --> 00:12:02.700 Beyond customer interactions, Lucinda is an incredible teammate. 00:12:02.700 --> 00:12:07.220 She is reliable, knowledgeable, and always willing to help others. 00:12:07.220 --> 00:12:12.659 In a field where accuracy, accountability, and empathy must work hand in hand, Lucinda 00:12:12.659 --> 00:12:15.500 delivers excellence every single day. 00:12:15.500 --> 00:12:20.379 Her work reflects our values and our commitment to public service. 00:12:20.379 --> 00:12:25.440 For her outstanding performance, unwavering dedication, and positive impact on both our 00:12:25.440 --> 00:12:30.379 customers and our team, it is with great pride that we honor Lucinda Lenore as our Utility 00:12:30.379 --> 00:12:32.379 Employee of the Year. 00:12:32.379 --> 00:13:03.289 Please join me in congratulating and thanking Lucinda for her exceptional service. 00:13:03.289 --> 00:13:04.809 Good evening everyone. 00:13:04.809 --> 00:13:11.569 I am Lucinda as Michelle said and I have been with the water and sewer for almost 25 years 00:13:11.569 --> 00:13:19.370 next month and I'll probably do this again but to all of you, my constituents and most 00:13:19.370 --> 00:13:37.370 and much of all my co-workers to Tina, Kathy, my manager Tony, and my previous co-worker Shelley and Gladys as well took part in all of this too, even though they are retired, they did have a play in this. 00:13:37.370 --> 00:13:43.029 to say to you all that I am a voice that you hear probably daily, a lot of you I probably 00:13:43.029 --> 00:13:48.470 talk to but did not know who you are or you did not know who I am. 00:13:48.470 --> 00:13:53.149 And so I'm here today to say this is me. 00:13:53.149 --> 00:14:00.149 And I thank you for all of your cause, if I tried to help you, if I didn't help you, 00:14:00.149 --> 00:14:06.009 I think most of the time I probably did if giving you where the resources are, you know, 00:14:06.009 --> 00:14:09.049 and it's to everyone for the resources. 00:14:09.049 --> 00:14:10.169 As our new chief said, 00:14:10.169 --> 00:14:12.569 it doesn't matter your color or race. 00:14:12.569 --> 00:14:15.450 I'm gonna tell you where you can get assistant at 00:14:15.450 --> 00:14:16.850 no matter who you are. 00:14:16.850 --> 00:14:19.289 So, and I just wanna again say thank you. 00:14:19.289 --> 00:14:20.129 Thank you. 00:14:20.129 --> 00:14:20.970 Thank you. 00:14:20.970 --> 00:14:46.299 Pat. 00:14:46.299 --> 00:14:47.899 I'd like to bring Todd Marsh up. 00:14:53.069 --> 00:15:01.360 Todd Marsh is our street department employee of the year. 00:15:01.360 --> 00:15:03.639 Todd Marsh has been a street department foreman. 00:15:03.639 --> 00:15:07.399 He has served the city now for 32 years. 00:15:07.399 --> 00:15:12.600 He brings veteran knowledge to a growing and young street department. 00:15:12.600 --> 00:15:17.799 He's always willing to help demonstrate strong leadership and offer support whenever it is 00:15:17.799 --> 00:15:24.319 needed, not only within the department, but as far as helping other utilities out too. 00:15:24.319 --> 00:15:27.960 Using daily tasks as opportunities to teach and mentor others. 00:15:27.960 --> 00:15:32.639 Todd works closely with the street department on projects, planning, staff assignments, 00:15:32.639 --> 00:15:35.339 and job completions. 00:15:35.339 --> 00:15:42.420 His dependability is one of his greatest strengths, never hesitates to ask questions or seek clarification. 00:15:42.420 --> 00:15:46.779 He brings a valued sense of humility to the team. 00:15:46.779 --> 00:15:52.100 Outside of the work, Todd is an avid hunter and volunteers as a coach for football for 00:15:52.100 --> 00:15:55.059 junior high track. 00:15:55.059 --> 00:16:00.759 As responsibilities evolve and projects become more complex, Todd continues to embrace new 00:16:00.759 --> 00:16:03.379 challenges and learn alongside his coworkers. 00:16:03.379 --> 00:16:05.899 Bender is truly an asset to the public works department. 00:16:21.360 --> 00:16:21.839 Thank you. 00:16:23.759 --> 00:16:24.319 You good? 00:16:44.039 --> 00:16:45.039 Tiffany Bender. 00:16:49.960 --> 00:16:53.240 She's our public works street department, honorable mention. 00:16:54.360 --> 00:16:55.079 Thank you, Tiff. 00:16:56.180 --> 00:17:00.399 As many people don't know, she is our dispatcher. 00:17:00.519 --> 00:17:07.279 She's, I know she's not in the 9-1-1 center or anything like that, but for us, she is 00:17:07.279 --> 00:17:09.460 our 9-1-1 center. 00:17:09.460 --> 00:17:11.839 She deals with all complaints. 00:17:11.839 --> 00:17:16.200 She takes on everything with great responsibility. 00:17:16.200 --> 00:17:22.329 She's, like I said, our first point of contact. 00:17:22.329 --> 00:17:26.369 She takes everybody's questions, comments, concerns seriously. 00:17:26.369 --> 00:17:29.369 She does her best to learn her job. 00:17:29.369 --> 00:17:31.569 She's evolved the job. 00:17:31.569 --> 00:17:35.009 He just does a wonderful job for us. 00:17:35.009 --> 00:17:46.819 So thank you, Tiff. 00:17:46.819 --> 00:17:48.380 You got anything you want to say? 00:17:48.380 --> 00:17:48.880 No. 00:17:48.880 --> 00:17:49.380 What? 00:17:55.619 --> 00:18:01.000 I'd also like to call up Blaine Strickwall. 00:18:01.000 --> 00:18:04.680 He's our public works utility, honorable mention. 00:18:04.680 --> 00:18:08.400 Thank you, sir. 00:18:08.400 --> 00:18:11.639 Blaine's got over 33 years of dedication 00:18:11.639 --> 00:18:13.000 to the service of the city. 00:18:13.000 --> 00:18:16.680 He has been an invaluable member for our lab. 00:18:16.680 --> 00:18:20.559 He has extensive knowledge of tests and procedures 00:18:20.559 --> 00:18:24.960 and plan operations coupled with IDPH certifications 00:18:24.960 --> 00:18:28.240 for drinking water testing and IPA certifications 00:18:28.240 --> 00:18:31.039 as a wastewater operator. 00:18:31.039 --> 00:18:37.039 Like, once again, 33 years, I can't say enough. 00:18:37.039 --> 00:18:39.079 It's been a while. 00:18:39.079 --> 00:18:42.840 Very dependable, never misses. 00:18:42.840 --> 00:19:31.340 I'd like to call Sanjay up and Ted these are our certificate of recognition for all you guys do for our summer help 00:19:31.340 --> 00:19:36.000 Penn and Sanjay, they're our mowing crew in the summer. They do all the nuisance 00:19:36.000 --> 00:19:44.980 permits, nuisance lots, all the city lots. They've brought this to a whole 00:19:44.980 --> 00:19:49.099 new level. I'd say they average probably a hundred properties, close to a hundred 00:19:49.099 --> 00:19:56.460 properties every week between city and nuisance lots. Once again, I can't say enough to you 00:19:56.460 --> 00:19:59.740 guys for the way you try. 00:19:59.740 --> 00:20:03.599 to you guys for the way you try and dedication to keep the city clean. It's appreciated. So thank you guys. 00:20:18.059 --> 00:20:46.339 Show your certificate. Gertrude. Thank you guys all for being here to help support the 00:20:46.339 --> 00:20:52.740 wonderful workers that we have. I get the honor to introduce Katie Smith to you guys. Most of 00:20:52.740 --> 00:21:04.500 Katie received an honorable mention for Employee of the Year in recognition of her exceptional 00:21:04.500 --> 00:21:08.819 dedication and service as an administrative assistant here in the Community Development 00:21:08.819 --> 00:21:11.259 Department within City Hall. 00:21:11.259 --> 00:21:16.339 As the first person many residents, visitors, and colleagues encounter, she creates a welcoming 00:21:16.339 --> 00:21:19.579 and positive first impression for the City of Freeport. 00:21:19.579 --> 00:21:24.500 Katie constantly answers questions with patience, provides clear and helpful guidance, and goes 00:21:24.500 --> 00:21:27.259 above and beyond to help individuals navigate 00:21:27.259 --> 00:21:30.980 the community development process and the city services. 00:21:30.980 --> 00:21:33.740 She's a tremendous support to her coworkers, 00:21:33.740 --> 00:21:35.380 assisting with public hearings, 00:21:35.380 --> 00:21:37.980 and always willing to lend a helping hand 00:21:37.980 --> 00:21:40.619 to make everybody's day run a little smoother, 00:21:40.619 --> 00:21:41.859 especially mine. 00:21:43.019 --> 00:21:44.940 Katie uses her Spanish-speaking skills 00:21:44.940 --> 00:21:48.259 to ensure that everyone has a voice here and feels heard. 00:21:48.259 --> 00:21:51.299 Her professionalism, kindness, and positive attitude 00:21:51.299 --> 00:21:53.619 makes her a true joy to work with. 00:21:53.619 --> 00:21:57.460 Thank you, Katie, for the care and the heart that you bring to the city of Freeport. 00:21:57.819 --> 00:21:58.539 Thank you so much. 00:22:11.039 --> 00:22:11.519 Amanda. 00:22:23.059 --> 00:22:27.660 It is my privilege to introduce this year's library employee of the year, Morgan Cook. 00:22:28.099 --> 00:22:32.259 Morgan will be celebrating her five-year anniversary at the library this March. 00:22:32.660 --> 00:22:35.740 Morgan is a valuable part of the library team in many ways. 00:22:35.980 --> 00:22:39.740 She works hard behind the scenes in technical services, mending items that 00:22:39.740 --> 00:22:42.819 come back damaged and discarding our withdrawn books. 00:22:42.819 --> 00:22:47.539 Morgan also offers fantastic customer service to all our patrons. 00:22:47.539 --> 00:22:50.660 Most often you'll see her at the adult or circulation desks, 00:22:50.660 --> 00:22:53.860 but she also does a great job in the Youth Services department. 00:22:53.860 --> 00:23:00.420 Morgan is always happy to help out when needed as an extra set of hands at a program like last year's New Year's Eve party. 00:23:00.420 --> 00:23:05.460 Morgan's favorite part of the job is helping the variety of patrons that come to the library each day. 00:23:05.460 --> 00:23:09.619 Congratulations, Morgan, and thank you for your hard work and dedication to the library. 00:23:09.619 --> 00:23:50.139 Good evening again, everyone. So it is with great pleasure that I present Jabriah Pearson, 00:23:50.139 --> 00:23:55.920 the Deputy City Clerk for the City Hall Employee of the Year Award. Although Jabriah joined 00:23:55.920 --> 00:24:00.480 and her team a little over a year ago. It is difficult to imagine our office without 00:24:00.480 --> 00:24:06.920 her. She has quickly become an irreplaceable part of our daily operations and her contributions 00:24:06.920 --> 00:24:12.440 shine through in both the work she does and the way she makes those around her feel. 00:24:12.440 --> 00:24:17.279 From day one, Jabria approached the role with curiosity, humility and determination. She 00:24:17.279 --> 00:24:23.039 learned the responsibility of the clerk's office with impressive speed. Not only absorbing 00:24:23.039 --> 00:24:26.460 and 00:24:26.480 --> 00:24:35.579 her willingness to work hard, step in wherever needed, and take initiative, reflects a level of dedication that elevates our entire team. 00:24:37.119 --> 00:24:42.960 What truly sets Debrea apart is her kindness, her professionalism, under grace. 00:24:43.740 --> 00:24:51.579 She consistently treats every resident with patience and respect, and her natural deescalation skills help her turn difficult 00:24:51.579 --> 00:25:03.339 Jabria brings calm to tense moments, clarity to confusing situations, and warmth to every 00:25:03.339 --> 00:25:05.099 conversation. 00:25:05.099 --> 00:25:12.539 She embodies what public service should be like, accessible, compassionate, and community-minded. 00:25:12.539 --> 00:25:14.460 Her commitment extends beyond her desk. 00:25:14.460 --> 00:25:18.980 Jabria's appointment to the Arts and Culture Commission is a testament to her character 00:25:18.980 --> 00:25:24.420 and her desire to contribute to the city in meaningful ways. 00:25:24.420 --> 00:25:28.759 She leads not with position, but with presence, dependable, thoughtful, and steady in every 00:25:28.759 --> 00:25:31.579 task that she undertakes. 00:25:31.579 --> 00:25:36.539 DeBria is reliable, calm, and quietly powerful in a way she supports her co-workers and the 00:25:36.539 --> 00:25:38.500 public. 00:25:38.500 --> 00:25:43.660 In such a short time, she has made a lasting impact on our office, our residents, and the 00:25:43.660 --> 00:25:45.579 culture of City Hall. 00:25:45.579 --> 00:25:48.500 We are better because she is here. 00:25:48.500 --> 00:25:53.200 For all these reasons, and with a heartfelt appreciation, I am proud to present Jabria 00:25:53.200 --> 00:25:57.720 Pearson with the City Hall Employee of the Year. Her work, character, and spirit exemplifies 00:25:57.720 --> 00:25:59.880 is the very best of public service. 00:25:59.880 --> 00:26:00.720 Thank you. 00:26:00.720 --> 00:26:12.389 Woo! 00:26:12.389 --> 00:26:13.230 Yeah, Dovie. 00:26:13.230 --> 00:26:14.069 Dovie. 00:26:14.069 --> 00:26:14.889 Dovie. 00:26:14.889 --> 00:26:15.730 Dovie. 00:26:15.730 --> 00:26:16.569 Are you crying? 00:26:16.569 --> 00:26:17.389 No. 00:26:17.389 --> 00:26:18.230 I'm crying. 00:26:18.230 --> 00:26:19.069 I'm crying. 00:26:19.069 --> 00:26:19.889 I'm crying. 00:26:19.889 --> 00:26:20.730 I'm crying. 00:26:20.730 --> 00:26:21.569 I'm crying. 00:26:21.569 --> 00:26:22.389 I'm crying. 00:26:22.389 --> 00:26:23.230 I'm crying. 00:26:23.230 --> 00:26:24.069 I'm crying. 00:26:24.069 --> 00:26:24.889 I'm crying. 00:26:24.889 --> 00:26:25.730 I'm crying. 00:26:25.730 --> 00:26:26.569 I'm crying. 00:26:26.569 --> 00:26:27.389 I'm crying. 00:26:27.389 --> 00:26:28.230 Okay. 00:26:30.029 --> 00:26:30.869 All right. 00:26:30.869 --> 00:26:33.529 And it's also my pleasure to present Michelle Richter 00:26:33.529 --> 00:26:35.670 with the Director of the Year Award. 00:26:35.670 --> 00:26:36.509 Stand by. 00:26:41.130 --> 00:26:43.279 Wow. 00:26:43.279 --> 00:26:53.279 So how many times is this? This two? I think this is two. Tonight is my privilege to recognize Michelle Richter, the City of Freeport's Finance Director, as Department Head of the Year. 00:26:53.279 --> 00:27:06.279 This award is especially meaningful because Michelle is receiving it for the second time with her first recognition in 2019. That's been a couple days ago. Yeah, a couple city managers too. 00:27:06.279 --> 00:27:12.720 That reflects consistent performance over time and the trust she has earned across the organization. 00:27:12.720 --> 00:27:17.519 As Finance Director, Michelle holds a responsibility that reaches every part of the city government. 00:27:17.519 --> 00:27:22.559 She manages public funds with care and understanding, and these resources belong to the residents 00:27:22.559 --> 00:27:24.279 and businesses of Freeport. 00:27:24.279 --> 00:27:28.880 In doing so, she reflects the principles of the Illinois Governmental Finance Officers 00:27:28.880 --> 00:27:31.680 Association, also known as IGFOA. 00:27:31.680 --> 00:27:40.680 I.G.F.O.A. is a professional organization that supports government finance officers through education, best practices, and strong ethical framework for public financial management. 00:27:40.680 --> 00:27:49.680 The I.G.F.O.A. Code of Ethics calls on finance professionals to act with integrity, to be accountable to the public, and to ensure transparency in financial reporting. 00:27:49.680 --> 00:27:53.680 Michelle demonstrates all of these principles. 00:27:53.680 --> 00:27:59.680 She provides clear and accurate financial information so that elected officials and department leaders can make informed decisions 00:27:59.680 --> 00:28:00.680 Huffins. 00:28:00.680 --> 00:28:08.019 Michelle also supports those around her. 00:28:08.019 --> 00:28:12.259 She invests in her team, shares her knowledge, and works collaboratively with colleagues 00:28:12.259 --> 00:28:13.740 across the organization. 00:28:13.740 --> 00:28:19.970 She approaches difficult decisions with clarity and follows through on her commitments. 00:28:19.970 --> 00:28:23.990 And while Michelle is known for her precision and discipline, those who know her well know 00:28:23.990 --> 00:28:27.349 that there's a lighter side. 00:28:27.349 --> 00:28:36.990 She brings calm to stressful moments, and a quiet sense of humor when it's needed most, and a steady presence that reminds everyone that good work can be done without unnecessary drama. 00:28:38.429 --> 00:28:49.909 Much of Michelle's work happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout the city. The city of Freeport operates more effectively because of her leadership and her commitment to ethical public service. 00:28:49.909 --> 00:28:56.150 Tonight, we recognize the department head who has earned respect through her work, her dedication 00:28:56.150 --> 00:29:01.509 to doing things the right way, and being named department head of the year for a second time 00:29:01.509 --> 00:29:03.110 is a meaningful achievement. 00:29:03.110 --> 00:29:17.119 Thank you, Michelle. 00:29:17.119 --> 00:29:18.119 Okay. 00:29:18.119 --> 00:29:31.299 Also, we have an honorable mention, as if you haven't seen enough of him already. 00:29:31.299 --> 00:29:33.259 This is for Pat Ingram. 00:29:33.259 --> 00:29:39.460 It's my honor to recognize Pat Ingram with honorable mention for Superintendent Operations 00:29:39.460 --> 00:29:55.980 of the Year. Pat demonstrates steady leadership, accountability, and a clear commitment to getting work done right. He approaches his role with humility and purpose understanding that leadership is earned, not through action and not through title. Pat shows a strong willingness to learn new things. 00:29:55.980 --> 00:29:58.559 Pat shows a strong willingness to learn new things and quickly become proficient in unfamiliar 00:29:58.559 --> 00:29:59.839 areas. 00:29:59.839 --> 00:30:04.180 He is a fast-study who adapts, asks the right questions, and applies what he's learned 00:30:04.180 --> 00:30:05.359 in a practical way. 00:30:05.359 --> 00:30:09.559 The mindset strengthens both his department and the organization as a whole. 00:30:09.559 --> 00:30:14.240 Above all, Pat is a servant leader who leads by example. 00:30:14.240 --> 00:30:20.279 He is down-to-earth, compassionate when it matters, and firm when decisions need to be 00:30:20.279 --> 00:30:21.279 made. 00:30:21.279 --> 00:30:29.119 His consistency and service make a meaningful difference for our organization and our community. Please join me in congratulating Pat Ingram. 00:30:41.579 --> 00:30:46.160 Let's get some water here. Darren? 00:30:48.519 --> 00:31:00.579 So tonight it's my honor to present the first 00:31:01.220 --> 00:31:03.339 Community Impact Award to Darren Steakle. 00:31:03.819 --> 00:31:08.339 This award recognizes someone who works reaches far beyond the job title. 00:31:08.339 --> 00:31:12.740 Deren's impact can be seen across our community and the projects he helps 00:31:12.740 --> 00:31:17.900 delivers and the care he brings to his work every day. Deren's connection to the 00:31:17.900 --> 00:31:21.700 community runs deep. He's originally from German Valley but he has made his home 00:31:21.700 --> 00:31:26.380 here in Freeport for many years. Over that time he's become someone the city 00:31:26.380 --> 00:31:31.619 relies on with important work needs when important work needs to be done. Deren 00:31:31.619 --> 00:31:35.740 has played a central role in many of the city's most significant efforts. He was 00:31:35.740 --> 00:31:44.740 He was deeply involved in the Chicago Streets Gate Project, helping to ensure it was completed in a single construction season to reduce disruption to local businesses. 00:31:44.740 --> 00:31:50.740 He played a key role in the design and construction of Well 11 project, strengthening the city's water system. 00:31:50.740 --> 00:31:57.740 He continues to lead the wastewater treatment plant project, guiding it through each phase with care and accountability. 00:31:57.740 --> 00:32:03.980 His leadership was also instrumental in securing more than 31 million dollars in outside funding 00:32:03.980 --> 00:32:10.860 for the Well 12 project which will benefit the community for generations. What sets Darren apart 00:32:10.860 --> 00:32:15.900 is how he approaches his work. He holds himself to a high standard and follows through on commitments. 00:32:15.900 --> 00:32:21.900 He pays attention to details and stays engaged until the job is done. I have driven past his 00:32:21.900 --> 00:32:27.940 and his office late at night and seen his light on. I stopped by his home and found 00:32:27.940 --> 00:32:36.059 him reviewing plans and working through challenges. That level of dedication speaks volumes. There 00:32:36.059 --> 00:32:41.019 is also a personal side to Darren that many appreciate. While he comes from Sherman Valley, 00:32:41.019 --> 00:32:46.619 his careful approach to planning and spending has earned him a reputation of being, I guess, 00:32:46.619 --> 00:32:53.339 Darin reflects positively on his mentor, Adam Holder, on the team at Fehr Graham, and on 00:32:53.339 --> 00:32:57.819 the city of Freeport. His work strengthens the community and sets a strong example for 00:32:57.819 --> 00:33:02.860 others to follow. Tonight, we recognize a professional whose dedication and integrity have made a 00:33:02.860 --> 00:33:17.980 lasting impact. Darin, thank you for your service and for the difference you continue 00:33:17.980 --> 00:33:18.980 to make. 00:33:18.980 --> 00:33:24.619 Okay. All right. We got two more left. Is everybody okay? You need to take a bathroom 00:33:24.619 --> 00:33:34.819 Bray. Okay. Okay. So tonight, it's an honor to present a lifetime achievement award to 00:33:34.819 --> 00:33:40.380 Chris Shenberger, retired chief of police for the Freeport Police Department. Chris, 00:33:40.380 --> 00:34:06.200 come on up here. So Chris was sworn in as a Freeport police officer in October of 1998. 00:34:06.200 --> 00:34:11.599 Over more than 20 years, he has served the department in nearly every major role. He 00:34:11.599 --> 00:34:16.320 has worked patrol, he supervised officers, he served in the street crimes, narcotics, 00:34:16.320 --> 00:34:19.159 investigation and emergency response units. 00:34:19.159 --> 00:34:23.519 He's led within the detective bureau before being chief of police. 00:34:23.519 --> 00:34:28.920 That experience shaped how he led because he understood the work from the ground up. 00:34:28.920 --> 00:34:33.000 As chief, Chris focused on building a department that could meet today's challenges. 00:34:33.000 --> 00:34:38.039 He reinstated the canine positions, he expanded shot spotter coverage, he advanced the use 00:34:38.039 --> 00:34:41.480 of license plate readers and implemented the department's drone program. 00:34:42.079 --> 00:34:45.720 He made addressing gun and gang violence a priority. 00:34:46.320 --> 00:34:49.519 He also worked to secure grant funding so the department could 00:34:49.840 --> 00:34:52.960 improve its capabilities while being mindful of the city's budget. 00:34:55.139 --> 00:34:58.260 One moment near the end of his career reflects his leadership clearly. 00:34:59.099 --> 00:35:03.340 In September of 2024, a welfare check at the Mary Hosmer 00:35:03.340 --> 00:35:07.220 high rise escalated into a 12 hour standoff with an armed subject. 00:35:07.220 --> 00:35:11.779 Smith. Shots were fired from the 10th floor apartment, and the situation posed serious 00:35:11.779 --> 00:35:16.940 risk to officers and the public. Chris served as the incident commander and led negotiations 00:35:16.940 --> 00:35:23.940 throughout the standoff. His focus remained on one goal, ending the incident without loss 00:35:23.940 --> 00:35:29.260 of life. That night concluded with a peaceful surrender. No officers were injured and no 00:35:29.260 --> 00:35:36.380 lives were lost. Beyond operations, Chris remained present in the community. He attended 00:35:36.380 --> 00:35:40.340 the Neighborhood Watch Meetings, he worked with faith leaders and community partners, 00:35:40.340 --> 00:35:44.099 he supported programs like Shop with a Cop and the National Night Out, and he gave of 00:35:44.099 --> 00:35:50.220 his time, especially where it mattered. Tonight we recognize a career built on service and 00:35:50.220 --> 00:35:55.059 responsibility. Chris Shenberger leaves behind a department that is stronger and a community 00:35:55.059 --> 00:35:59.539 that is safer because of his work. Chris Shenberger, thank you for your service to the City of 00:35:59.539 --> 00:36:14.230 Freeport and congratulations on this Lifetime Award. 00:36:14.230 --> 00:36:19.829 For those who know me know that I'm not I don't have a lot of words I don't like 00:36:19.829 --> 00:36:23.510 to talk a lot but hearing the the new chief tonight it was awesome great 00:36:23.510 --> 00:36:29.170 speech congratulations to you I've got to speak to her directly and we've talked 00:36:29.170 --> 00:36:33.029 on the phone I think it's very exciting for us for this community and the police 00:36:33.029 --> 00:36:36.869 department to have someone with her background and qualifications to lead 00:36:36.869 --> 00:36:40.909 us in the future it's great things are coming for the City of Freeport and the 00:36:40.909 --> 00:36:55.250 Freeport Police Department. So thank you. Okay and I we have one more award for 00:36:55.250 --> 00:37:00.050 this evening and then we'll move into regular business. Chief Scott Miller would 00:37:00.050 --> 00:37:23.050 you join me up here? Tonight's bittersweet. So Chief Scott Miller's 00:37:23.050 --> 00:37:27.610 career reflects more than four decades of service leadership and commitment to 00:37:27.610 --> 00:37:31.929 the fire service and communities he's served. Chief Miller began his career in 00:37:31.929 --> 00:37:37.529 in 1981 at the age of 22 with the Lake Zurich Fire Department. 00:37:37.529 --> 00:37:41.970 Early in his service, he completed EMT advanced and paramedic training through Northwest Community 00:37:41.970 --> 00:37:46.409 Hospital along with Firefighter II and III certifications. 00:37:46.409 --> 00:37:51.730 These early efforts established a foundation in both fire suppression and emergency medical 00:37:51.730 --> 00:37:53.010 services. 00:37:53.010 --> 00:37:58.170 In 1985, Chief Miller joined the Elk Grove Village Fire Department where he served for 00:37:58.170 --> 00:38:00.329 more than 27 years. 00:38:00.329 --> 00:38:01.329 Miller. 00:38:01.329 --> 00:38:06.369 During that time, he advanced through the ranks, being promoted to Lieutenant in 1998, 00:38:06.369 --> 00:38:12.529 Battalion Chief in 2003, and Deputy Chief in 2006, and serving as Interim Fire Chief 00:38:12.529 --> 00:38:15.250 from 2011 to 2012. 00:38:15.250 --> 00:38:19.849 His work included emergency management, budgeting, purchasing, participation in regional fire 00:38:19.849 --> 00:38:22.529 and EMS oversight organizations. 00:38:22.529 --> 00:38:26.550 Chief Miller came to Freeport in 2013 with broad experience and a strong understanding 00:38:26.550 --> 00:38:28.470 of Department Operations. 00:38:28.470 --> 00:38:35.429 On January 3, 2014, during an extreme cold with temperatures reaching minus 21 degrees, 00:38:35.429 --> 00:38:40.949 the Department responded to two structure fires within hours of each other, one on West 00:38:40.949 --> 00:38:44.789 Galena Avenue and the other on South Chicago Avenue. 00:38:44.789 --> 00:38:52.389 Crews worked extended operations with frozen equipment to bring both fires under control. 00:38:52.389 --> 00:38:56.449 This incident marked Chief Miller's first major operational experience with the Freeport 00:38:56.449 --> 00:39:02.909 Fire Department and informed later staffing and deployment changes that improved the efficiency. 00:39:02.909 --> 00:39:10.010 During his tenure as the Freeport Fire Chief from 2013 to 2017 and again from 2022 to 26, 00:39:10.010 --> 00:39:14.630 Chief Miller led many improvements. These included guiding the city through the Home 00:39:14.630 --> 00:39:19.889 Rule process, replacing outdated apparatuses, increasing staffing level to address rising 00:39:19.889 --> 00:39:22.730 Miller, Michael, and 00:39:22.730 --> 00:39:23.730 John. 00:39:23.730 --> 00:39:29.150 Through grants and cooperative purchasing, the department modernized turnout gear, reading 00:39:29.150 --> 00:39:32.470 equipment, radios, and communication infrastructure. 00:39:32.470 --> 00:39:37.150 Chief Miller has been a strong advocate for education and progress. 00:39:37.150 --> 00:39:41.769 He was the first chief to require new recruits to complete a full fire academy, establishing 00:39:41.769 --> 00:39:47.289 the current practice of sending all new hires to the Romeoville Fire Academy. 00:39:47.289 --> 00:39:52.289 Through every stage of his career, Chief Miller has led with steadfastness, accountability, 00:39:52.289 --> 00:39:54.010 and respect for the people he serves. 00:39:54.010 --> 00:39:57.599 and Respect for the people he serves. His legacy is found not only in the equipment upgraded 00:39:57.599 --> 00:40:02.800 and the policies improved, but the firefighters he's mentored, the leaders he's developed, 00:40:02.800 --> 00:40:08.039 and the community he protected. This lifetime achievement award recognizes a career built 00:40:08.039 --> 00:40:13.280 on service, trust, and commitment. The city of Freeport is stronger because of this leadership 00:40:13.280 --> 00:40:30.260 and we are grateful for his enduring contributions. Thank you, Chief. 00:40:30.260 --> 00:40:32.500 He's a man of few words, but we'll let him go. 00:40:32.500 --> 00:40:35.099 So actually, Chris Shenberger has more words 00:40:35.099 --> 00:40:36.139 than I typically do. 00:40:36.139 --> 00:40:39.619 So I'll make mine even more brief than his. 00:40:39.619 --> 00:40:43.619 So I guess this award and recognition makes it official. 00:40:43.619 --> 00:40:45.699 I've been doing this a long time. 00:40:45.699 --> 00:40:50.460 So nearly eight years I've been in Freeport have been fantastic. 00:40:50.460 --> 00:40:51.900 I really enjoyed it. 00:40:51.900 --> 00:40:54.900 I've enjoyed working with the shifts, with the crews. 00:40:54.900 --> 00:40:57.340 So thank you for being here. 00:40:57.340 --> 00:41:01.579 and it's only fitting that into chief begins today. 00:41:01.579 --> 00:41:04.239 I'll be retiring the end of this month. 00:41:04.239 --> 00:41:05.500 So, thank you very much. 00:41:05.500 --> 00:41:06.340 It's been wonderful. 00:41:06.340 --> 00:41:18.199 Thank you. 00:41:18.199 --> 00:41:19.019 Thank you. 00:41:19.019 --> 00:41:21.519 And this concludes our recognitions for this evening. 00:41:21.519 --> 00:41:23.400 We'll move on to item number seven, 00:41:23.400 --> 00:41:25.039 which is the consent agenda. 00:41:25.039 --> 00:41:27.420 The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature, 00:41:27.420 --> 00:41:28.760 unless there's a member of council 00:41:28.760 --> 00:41:29.840 would like to have something removed 00:41:29.840 --> 00:41:31.079 for further discussion. 00:41:33.860 --> 00:41:37.420 The consent agenda consists of approving to receive 00:41:37.420 --> 00:41:39.519 in place on file, the board and commission minutes 00:41:39.519 --> 00:41:43.820 from the Billing Commission, November 13th, 2024, 00:41:43.820 --> 00:41:46.900 Zoning Board of Appeals, July 10th, 2024, 00:41:46.900 --> 00:41:51.019 Planning Commission, August 14th, and September 11th, 2025. 00:41:52.760 --> 00:41:56.019 The Freeport Public Library Board, September 10th, 00:41:56.019 --> 00:41:59.960 October 8th, 17th, 2025, the Foreign Fire Board, 00:41:59.960 --> 00:42:02.659 October 9th, 2025, the Liquor Commission, 00:42:02.659 --> 00:42:06.219 November 13th, 2025, the schedule, 00:42:06.219 --> 00:42:36.219 The regular schedule of meetings for the City of Freeport, 2026, the Greater Freeport Partnerships Monthly Report, the CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Grant, expenditures from October 31st, 25, through January 2nd, 26, also is the adoption of Resolution 202602, which was the ratifying approval of invoice from William Charles for the 2025 report, or repairs to the 00:42:36.219 --> 00:43:00.780 and 00:43:00.780 --> 00:43:09.739 in the total of $685,641.20. Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda? 00:43:09.739 --> 00:43:10.539 Second. 00:43:12.219 --> 00:43:18.139 We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Madam Clerk, 00:43:18.139 --> 00:43:19.179 please take the roll. 00:43:19.179 --> 00:43:19.820 Sellers? 00:43:19.820 --> 00:43:20.460 Aye. 00:43:20.460 --> 00:43:21.099 Klemm? 00:43:21.099 --> 00:43:21.579 Aye. 00:43:21.579 --> 00:43:22.219 Johnson? 00:43:22.219 --> 00:43:22.699 Aye. 00:43:22.699 --> 00:43:23.099 Simmons? 00:43:24.139 --> 00:43:24.780 Parker? 00:43:24.780 --> 00:43:25.179 Aye. 00:43:25.179 --> 00:43:26.059 Stacy? 00:43:26.059 --> 00:43:26.539 Aye. 00:43:26.539 --> 00:43:27.019 Shadle? 00:43:27.019 --> 00:43:27.420 Aye. 00:43:27.420 --> 00:43:28.380 And Sanders? 00:43:28.380 --> 00:43:28.539 No. 00:43:28.539 --> 00:43:36.780 The motion passes seven to one. Item number eight is an announcement concerning the Illinois 00:43:36.780 --> 00:43:42.420 Environmental Protection Agency towards awards totaling 31 million dollars in grants and 00:43:42.420 --> 00:43:47.300 forgivable loans for the construction of well number 12. Manager Boyer. 00:43:47.300 --> 00:43:52.739 Thank you, Your Honor. And I think we alluded to it earlier during the awards portion of 00:43:52.739 --> 00:43:58.139 tonight's meeting. But tonight marks an important moment for the City of Freeport and for our 00:43:58.139 --> 00:43:59.139 and the City of New York. 00:43:59.139 --> 00:44:00.139 The city was the first city to have a water system. 00:44:00.139 --> 00:44:04.980 Approximately 10 years ago, following a pilot study done by the EPA, the city identified 00:44:04.980 --> 00:44:09.000 that some production wells contained what are now known as forever chemicals. 00:44:09.000 --> 00:44:14.320 At that time, this issue was emerging nationwide and Freeport chose to act. 00:44:14.320 --> 00:44:18.320 The city shut down and decommissioned the highest reading wells and shifted production of those 00:44:18.320 --> 00:44:23.159 with the lowest levels to protect public health while long-term solutions were developed. 00:44:23.159 --> 00:44:28.300 From that point forward, the City committed to rebuilding its water system with intention 00:44:28.300 --> 00:44:29.500 and care. 00:44:29.500 --> 00:44:33.300 That effort led to the planning and construction of Well 11, which is currently on Burchard 00:44:33.300 --> 00:44:39.699 Hill, and that came on line in 2023, along with Carroll and Willow, which we already 00:44:39.699 --> 00:44:41.420 had in place. 00:44:41.420 --> 00:44:45.300 Well 11 has helped meet much of the City's water demand and provided stability during 00:44:45.300 --> 00:44:46.659 this transition. 00:44:46.659 --> 00:44:51.139 The final most significant remaining element of our long-term water capacity plan is Well 00:44:51.139 --> 00:44:52.279 12. 00:44:52.279 --> 00:44:56.940 All 12 will provide approximately 65% of the city's water supply, it will also deliver 00:44:56.940 --> 00:45:02.079 the redundancy needed for emergencies, system maintenance, and operational continuity. 00:45:02.079 --> 00:45:06.019 The project is not just about capacity, it's about reliability and public health for the 00:45:06.019 --> 00:45:07.019 long term. 00:45:07.019 --> 00:45:11.800 Tonight, I am proud to announce that the City of Freeport will receive a total of $31 million 00:45:11.800 --> 00:45:16.639 through forgivable loans and emerging contaminant funding, along with approximately $1 million 00:45:16.639 --> 00:45:21.139 secured with the support of Congressman Eric Sorensen, who believes every community deserves 00:45:21.139 --> 00:45:23.220 and others access to clean drinking water. 00:45:23.220 --> 00:45:27.039 I want to thank Congressman Sorensen and the team at Fehr Graham. 00:45:27.039 --> 00:45:32.559 Thank you to Derek, Alex, Bridget, Seth, Mick, Tom, and especially Darren, whose commitment 00:45:32.559 --> 00:45:37.239 to the city of Freeport is evident every day in this outcome. 00:45:37.239 --> 00:45:40.360 This investment reflects years of planning and steady work. 00:45:40.360 --> 00:45:45.019 It represents the city that chose to address a challenge directly and build a water system 00:45:45.019 --> 00:45:48.920 our residents can depend on now and into the future. 00:45:48.920 --> 00:45:51.869 Thank you, Mayor. 00:45:51.869 --> 00:45:56.670 Next is the adoption of Resolution 20-2601. Madam Clerk, could you please read this? 00:45:56.670 --> 00:46:01.710 Resolution approving a grant agreement between the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency 00:46:01.710 --> 00:46:06.029 and the City of Freeport regarding emerging contaminants for small communities grant 00:46:06.029 --> 00:46:13.389 for $14,063,530.48 for construction of Well 12. 00:46:13.389 --> 00:46:14.429 Thank you. Manager Boyer? 00:46:14.989 --> 00:46:20.590 Well, I think staff's request is going to be pretty obvious. Staff request, council, 00:46:20.590 --> 00:46:28.349 Approved Resolution 2026-01 Authorizing Receipts of $14 million for the WELT-12. 00:46:31.710 --> 00:46:36.750 We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Klemm for the Adoption of 00:46:36.750 --> 00:46:43.309 Resolution 2026-01. Any discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:46:43.309 --> 00:46:44.429 Sellers? Aye. 00:46:44.429 --> 00:46:45.869 Klemm? Aye. 00:46:45.869 --> 00:46:46.989 Johnson? Aye. 00:46:46.989 --> 00:46:48.190 Simmons? Aye. 00:46:48.190 --> 00:46:49.309 Parker? Aye. 00:46:49.309 --> 00:46:57.230 Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. And Sanders? No. The resolution is adopted seven to one. Item number 00:46:57.230 --> 00:47:02.110 nine is the first reading of ordinance 2026-01. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending 00:47:02.110 --> 00:47:08.269 various subsections of chapter 220 rules of council, the city of Freeport code of ordinances, 00:47:08.269 --> 00:47:14.829 section 220-11A-4, which is the operation of the committee of the whole, section 220-11E-5, 00:47:14.829 --> 00:47:20.230 Operation of Finance Committee of the Whole, and Section 220.11 F5, City Manager Recruitment 00:47:20.230 --> 00:47:21.230 Committee. 00:47:21.230 --> 00:47:22.230 Thank you. 00:47:22.230 --> 00:47:23.230 Manager Boyer? 00:47:23.230 --> 00:47:25.670 Thank you, Your Honor. 00:47:25.670 --> 00:47:31.389 The City of Freeport Code of Order in Section 220.11 provides for various rules that govern 00:47:31.389 --> 00:47:35.590 how the City Council and the various committee meetings are conducted, including but not 00:47:35.590 --> 00:47:38.829 limited to the procedure for placing items on agenda. 00:47:38.829 --> 00:47:44.690 On June 16, 2025, Council made various revisions to Chapter 220, Rules of Council, however 00:47:44.690 --> 00:47:48.809 For not all sections governing various types of meetings were updated to reflect that two 00:47:48.809 --> 00:47:52.289 alder persons can add an agenda item. 00:47:52.289 --> 00:47:56.070 The proposed ordinance amends the language of the above-referenced codified ordinance 00:47:56.070 --> 00:48:00.849 to reflect that agenda items for the Committee of the Whole, Finance Committee of the Whole, 00:48:00.849 --> 00:48:06.730 and City Manager Recruitment Committee meeting that shall be requested by the mayor and the 00:48:06.730 --> 00:48:12.210 city manager or two aldermen, or as referred to it by the city council. 00:48:12.210 --> 00:48:19.970 Sellers, no financial impact and staff recommends moving forward with the second reading. 00:48:19.970 --> 00:48:20.970 Is there a motion to? 00:48:20.970 --> 00:48:21.970 So moved. 00:48:21.970 --> 00:48:22.970 Second. 00:48:22.970 --> 00:48:29.489 We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Johnson to move Ordinance 00:48:29.489 --> 00:48:33.010 2026.01 to the next meeting. 00:48:33.010 --> 00:48:39.849 Discussion on this ordinance and we will move on to reports of department heads. 00:48:39.849 --> 00:48:40.849 Finance? 00:48:40.849 --> 00:48:41.849 Nothing, Your Honor. 00:48:41.849 --> 00:48:42.849 Thank you. 00:48:42.849 --> 00:48:43.849 Community Development? 00:48:43.849 --> 00:48:46.849 Thank you. Public Works? 00:48:46.849 --> 00:48:49.849 Just one item. 00:48:49.849 --> 00:48:53.849 EV Chargers installations are almost complete. 00:48:53.849 --> 00:48:58.849 We've ordered commissioning of one of the sites, the other one we're waiting for a transformer. 00:48:58.849 --> 00:49:06.849 I'd like to let everybody know that the final total for the project was just over $800,000. 00:49:06.849 --> 00:49:16.849 and we will be receiving $840,000 in forgivable grants from ComEd and CEJA for the project. 00:49:16.849 --> 00:49:20.529 So it will be a net zero to Freeport. 00:49:20.529 --> 00:49:21.529 Thank you. 00:49:21.529 --> 00:49:22.529 Fire? 00:49:22.529 --> 00:49:23.529 Thank you, Your Honor. 00:49:23.529 --> 00:49:28.529 Once again, I just want to say thank you to the City Council and the manager for allowing 00:49:28.529 --> 00:49:31.170 me to serve as the Fire Chief for the City of Freeport. 00:49:31.170 --> 00:49:32.929 It's been a wonderful opportunity. 00:49:32.929 --> 00:49:33.929 Thank you. 00:49:33.929 --> 00:49:34.929 Police. 00:49:34.929 --> 00:49:41.920 We're starting a new decade here, and I will be serving with pride and honor for all those 00:49:41.920 --> 00:49:44.360 in the City of Residence and the City of Freeport. 00:49:44.360 --> 00:49:45.360 Thank you. 00:49:45.360 --> 00:49:46.360 Library? 00:49:46.360 --> 00:49:47.360 Nothing, Your Honor. 00:49:47.360 --> 00:49:48.360 Thank you. 00:49:48.360 --> 00:49:49.360 IT? 00:49:49.360 --> 00:49:51.360 I.T.? 00:49:51.360 --> 00:50:07.219 It, and Airport. Jeff, you can turn that around if you want to. Hello, everyone. I just wanted 00:50:07.219 --> 00:50:12.500 to give a quick update on the last quarter of some of the highlights out at the airport. 00:50:12.500 --> 00:50:17.099 This is starting 10-1. We started completing, cleaning out a lot of the hangars and end 00:50:17.099 --> 00:50:24.619 spaces to make room for the equipment so that we could in turn open up a lot of space for 00:50:24.619 --> 00:50:29.699 For Hangers for Airplanes. Now all the equipment and vehicles are currently stored inside and 00:50:29.699 --> 00:50:38.820 under a roof. Moving on to 10-7, I traveled into Chicago for a TIPS meeting. TIPS is the 00:50:38.820 --> 00:50:45.179 Transportation Improvement Program. That meeting was held in Chicago at the IDOT headquarters. 00:50:45.179 --> 00:50:53.019 I was attended jointly by IDOT Aeronautical Division and the FAA. While there we discussed 00:50:53.019 --> 00:50:58.940 future needed projects for the airport for improvement. The main number one item currently 00:50:58.940 --> 00:51:05.019 needed out there is completion of the airport terminal building. That building is already 00:51:05.019 --> 00:51:11.179 existing and built out there. It just needs to be finished off. The current building is 00:51:11.179 --> 00:51:17.380 long overdue for replacement and is getting in pretty poor condition. Currently the completion 00:51:17.380 --> 00:51:25.820 for this project, uh, is in 2026. Uh, the other major project in, uh, 2026 is, uh, 00:51:25.860 --> 00:51:30.300 installation of the PAPI lighting system, uh, which stands for, uh, the precision 00:51:30.300 --> 00:51:36.179 approach path, uh, indicator lights. Uh, that project is slated for a start in 00:51:36.179 --> 00:51:42.500 July of 2026. Uh, beyond that other needs that we need out there is a construction 00:51:42.500 --> 00:51:49.739 of a storage building for all the airport equipment, a heated space so we can get all the plows 00:51:49.739 --> 00:51:54.619 and all that stuff out of the heated hanger space and use that for airplanes, which it 00:51:54.619 --> 00:51:57.860 was designed for. 00:51:57.860 --> 00:52:03.880 Going forward on the tips down the road for 27, right now in the plan is current for rehab 00:52:03.880 --> 00:52:07.980 of the taxi lights and conversion over to LED. 00:52:07.980 --> 00:52:15.780 in 28. It's scheduled for a field farm modernization project and then a little further down the 00:52:15.780 --> 00:52:24.380 road in 29. Right now they have scheduled on their west apron and taxiway entrance with 00:52:24.380 --> 00:52:32.380 hanger development along that apron. The first week also in October we opened up the south 00:52:32.380 --> 00:52:38.179 South, Entrance Road again for traffic, a couple of weeks after that a crew came out 00:52:38.179 --> 00:52:44.619 and did a striping project on that road so all the striping is completed on that road. 00:52:44.619 --> 00:52:50.480 Also right after that another crew came out there and installed concrete bases for some 00:52:50.480 --> 00:52:54.340 new light poles so that road will have lighting on it. 00:52:54.340 --> 00:53:01.639 The plan is for eight light poles to be installed and then two older ones to be removed. 00:53:01.639 --> 00:53:06.119 Those poles have been on backorder and are scheduled for delivery late in January and 00:53:06.119 --> 00:53:11.719 then the installation will occur in the spring when the weather gets nicer. 00:53:11.719 --> 00:53:19.039 Moving on to mid-November, Hangar D, which is the old maintenance shop that had a crew 00:53:19.039 --> 00:53:22.599 come in and removed all the asbestos out of that building. 00:53:22.599 --> 00:53:31.159 They put their space suits on and removed all that and that building is now able to 00:53:31.159 --> 00:53:34.360 B. Demolition whenever that space is needed for future development. 00:53:34.719 --> 00:53:38.980 Uh, uh, the end of November, early December, that was challenging out 00:53:38.980 --> 00:53:41.840 there with all the snow that we got, uh, snow was piling up everywhere. 00:53:41.920 --> 00:53:44.199 It was a challenge to keep it from getting the lights buried. 00:53:44.199 --> 00:53:47.079 Uh, uh, all the equipment performed well. 00:53:47.079 --> 00:53:50.239 And, uh, now we even have the big, uh, snowblower back in service. 00:53:50.239 --> 00:53:52.039 That machine had to have a lot of work done to it. 00:53:52.039 --> 00:53:57.159 Uh, the bottom spool was ground off of it and, uh, now that's all back in service. 00:53:57.159 --> 00:53:58.320 It did a lot of work down at the city. 00:53:58.320 --> 00:54:03.760 I'd like to thank Pat, Andrew, and Zach for doing a great job of supporting us out there. 00:54:03.760 --> 00:54:07.480 They're very responsive to maintenance issues and stuff like that. 00:54:07.480 --> 00:54:09.000 So thanks to those guys. 00:54:11.000 --> 00:54:15.000 The second week of December, we finally got the AWAS back to reporting the weather over the internet. 00:54:15.000 --> 00:54:21.000 The AWAS, that's the Automated Weather Observation Station that had a circuit board that was out. 00:54:21.000 --> 00:54:23.960 It was really hard to get. It had to get approved through the state. 00:54:23.960 --> 00:54:26.239 And then a guy came down from Minnesota to install that. 00:54:26.239 --> 00:54:28.239 So that is back up and running. 00:54:29.760 --> 00:54:33.559 As far as the airport activity report, right now at the airport, we currently 00:54:33.559 --> 00:54:36.199 have a based aircraft right at 50 airplanes. 00:54:36.960 --> 00:54:42.079 All of the runnable hangars are currently leased out. 00:54:42.119 --> 00:54:43.639 There's a couple other ones that need some work. 00:54:44.000 --> 00:54:46.320 We'll be doing that in the spring, getting on that and getting those 00:54:46.320 --> 00:54:49.400 hangars repaired and run it back out. 00:54:50.599 --> 00:54:55.679 As far as activity operations out there, we can get a lot more accurate data 00:54:55.679 --> 00:55:01.400 Now, because just this past summer, a company called Vertower installed equipment out at 00:55:01.400 --> 00:55:09.199 the airport that when airplanes come in and out, this system can read the ADSB data off 00:55:09.199 --> 00:55:13.679 the airplane so we can get a lot more accurate operations data. 00:55:13.679 --> 00:55:20.960 So right now I have, I ran some reports in October, total operations out there was 667 00:55:20.960 --> 00:55:24.800 in October in November was 440. 00:55:24.800 --> 00:55:26.000 And then with the weather turned bad, 00:55:26.000 --> 00:55:27.039 it slows down a lot. 00:55:27.039 --> 00:55:29.900 December was 247. 00:55:29.900 --> 00:55:31.519 So that makes for a total for the quarter 00:55:31.519 --> 00:55:34.800 of 1,354 operations. 00:55:34.800 --> 00:55:37.480 And then I can further break that down 00:55:37.480 --> 00:55:39.920 into jet and turbo prop operations 00:55:39.920 --> 00:55:43.119 for the quarter was 68 for that. 00:55:43.119 --> 00:55:46.480 So that pretty much is the highlights of the last 90 days 00:55:46.480 --> 00:55:50.320 unless there's any questions. 00:55:50.320 --> 00:55:51.159 Thank you. 00:55:51.159 --> 00:55:52.159 Thank you. 00:55:52.159 --> 00:55:53.159 Oh, Alderman Klemm. 00:55:53.159 --> 00:55:58.679 First of all, thank you for the report and all you've done. 00:55:58.679 --> 00:56:03.519 Also for the work on getting the weather thing back up, you and I talked about that. 00:56:03.519 --> 00:56:04.519 Yes. 00:56:04.519 --> 00:56:05.760 I appreciate your help in that. 00:56:05.760 --> 00:56:11.199 When you mentioned takeoffs and landing, I'm going back, I'm too old, and I'm going back 00:56:11.199 --> 00:56:13.599 20 years, okay? 00:56:13.599 --> 00:56:20.519 When you count a service or a plane coming in, you mentioned those figures, those figures 00:56:20.519 --> 00:56:42.829 I just want to congratulate the team on that successful grant, combination of grants and 00:56:42.829 --> 00:56:49.230 Forgivable Loans for Well 12. That's all. And I would like to congratulate both of our 00:56:49.230 --> 00:56:54.429 Chiefs, Chief Frosto, for your commitment to the city and your new 00:56:54.429 --> 00:56:59.429 appointment and Chief Miller on your retirement. Happy for you but sad for us. 00:56:59.429 --> 00:57:05.029 So thank you. And then also to remind the council that our next regular council 00:57:05.029 --> 00:57:10.590 meeting will be on Tuesday, January 20th, not Monday. The 19th City Hall will be 00:57:10.590 --> 00:57:13.230 Close in honor of Martin Luther King Day. 00:57:13.230 --> 00:57:15.630 So we will move on to council announcements. 00:57:15.630 --> 00:57:17.429 Alderman Sellers. 00:57:17.429 --> 00:57:20.869 I just want to say thank you also for being 00:57:20.869 --> 00:57:22.590 a part of our community. 00:57:22.590 --> 00:57:26.389 And I'll also say to Chief, we're going to miss you. 00:57:26.389 --> 00:57:28.550 So thank you for all your service. 00:57:28.550 --> 00:57:32.789 And then I also want to say great job for the $31 million 00:57:32.789 --> 00:57:34.869 in the grant for the water. 00:57:34.869 --> 00:57:35.989 That's it. 00:57:35.989 --> 00:57:36.789 Alderman Klemm. 00:57:36.789 --> 00:57:38.150 Yeah. 00:57:38.150 --> 00:57:42.989 Just like to say the Neighborhood Watch will remain the same date this month. 00:57:42.989 --> 00:57:44.789 It'll be the fourth Tuesday of this month. 00:57:46.190 --> 00:57:50.470 Thanks to all that took part in the ceremonies and everything. 00:57:50.470 --> 00:57:55.590 Great job by a lot of people here at the city that don't get the recognition 00:57:55.590 --> 00:57:59.349 that they deserve for dealing with the public and with all the problems 00:57:59.349 --> 00:58:01.909 that they deal with. 00:58:01.909 --> 00:58:03.429 One thing came up today. 00:58:03.429 --> 00:58:09.029 also congratulations on the funding. We really, really appreciate that. 00:58:09.029 --> 00:58:13.590 Congratulations to both chiefs. Great luck and family you have here. Nice warm 00:58:13.590 --> 00:58:17.429 dog come out. That was very nice. One thing somebody brought to my attention 00:58:17.429 --> 00:58:24.150 today just to put into the things coming up, one of the new laws in the state 00:58:24.150 --> 00:58:29.029 Illinois was that you can't throw away batteries anymore. They have to be 00:58:29.029 --> 00:58:35.349 Recycle, and according to the Chicago Tribune that where it listed it had it there wasn't any place 00:58:35.349 --> 00:58:40.869 available in Freeport. So just something we're going to need to take a look into. Thank you very much. 00:58:41.510 --> 00:58:47.670 Oliver Johnson. Yeah, I'd like to say welcome to our new police chief. I enjoyed your speech. Thank 00:58:47.670 --> 00:58:54.070 you very much. And for you, Chief Miller, we'll miss you. And I'm sure it's very hard to retire, 00:58:54.070 --> 00:58:58.989 Miller, but yet I know you know when the time is, but you will be missed. 00:58:58.989 --> 00:59:02.309 And I'd also like to congratulate everyone that was honored tonight. 00:59:02.309 --> 00:59:06.730 I just think it's wonderful to have people honored for their hard work and their dedication 00:59:06.730 --> 00:59:10.989 and their integrity, so congratulations to all of those. 00:59:10.989 --> 00:59:15.550 And just wanted to say Happy New Year to everyone, and I declare it will be a prosperous and 00:59:15.550 --> 00:59:18.789 new year with unity and peace. 00:59:18.789 --> 00:59:19.789 Thank you. 00:59:19.789 --> 00:59:20.789 Loman, Simmons? 00:59:20.789 --> 00:59:25.789 Well, just thank you, Chief, I'm going to miss you. 00:59:25.789 --> 00:59:26.789 That's all. 00:59:26.789 --> 00:59:27.789 Thank you. 00:59:27.789 --> 00:59:28.789 Loman, Parker? 00:59:28.789 --> 00:59:29.789 Yeah. 00:59:29.789 --> 00:59:32.110 Just want to echo what everyone else has said about both Chiefs. 00:59:32.110 --> 00:59:34.829 Welcome to the new Chief and enjoy your retirement. 00:59:34.829 --> 00:59:35.829 It's a great thing. 00:59:35.829 --> 00:59:36.829 Thank you. 00:59:36.829 --> 00:59:40.349 I just wanted to repeat what everyone else has said, so thank you. 00:59:40.349 --> 00:59:42.349 Loman, Stacy? 00:59:42.349 --> 00:59:43.349 Yes. 00:59:43.349 --> 00:59:49.349 First, I want to say to Darren, thank you for hearing. 00:59:49.349 --> 00:59:56.480 for hearing my cry of help to the City of Freeport and the pantries. What you and 00:59:56.480 --> 01:00:04.039 Fehr Graham did was wonderful. I appreciate you. I thank you for all you 01:00:04.039 --> 01:00:13.760 do for the city. To the new chief and forgive me if I can't pronounce your 01:00:13.760 --> 01:00:15.760 Shadle. 01:00:15.760 --> 01:00:18.280 But I'll work on that. 01:00:18.280 --> 01:00:20.599 Thank you for meeting with me today. 01:00:20.599 --> 01:00:30.099 It was a pleasure to sit down with you and welcome. 01:00:30.099 --> 01:00:32.099 Welcome to Freeport, Illinois. 01:00:32.099 --> 01:00:33.099 Thank you. 01:00:33.099 --> 01:00:35.730 Solomon Shadle? 01:00:35.730 --> 01:00:36.730 Yes. 01:00:36.730 --> 01:00:45.969 Just want to say thanks to all the employees, especially the ones that were recognized tonight. 01:00:45.969 --> 01:00:58.190 but in total we have a quite a group of people working for us and they should all be thanked. 01:00:58.190 --> 01:01:04.070 I'd like to put this $31 million in the context a little bit. 01:01:04.070 --> 01:01:11.610 Our budget for 2026 was right for the entire city was right in the neighborhood of $27 01:01:11.610 --> 01:01:25.460 and we got a 31 million dollar loan that's forgivable and Fehr Graham has done tremendous 01:01:25.460 --> 01:01:35.460 work. We've got totals of forgivable loans and grants from back to the year 2020 that 01:01:35.460 --> 01:01:46.820 at total $60 million that has been brought to our coffers by Fehr Graham and Mr. Steekle. 01:01:46.820 --> 01:01:47.820 And thank you. 01:01:47.820 --> 01:01:55.380 Alderman Sanders? 01:01:55.380 --> 01:01:56.380 No comment. 01:01:56.380 --> 01:01:59.380 We have public comment. 01:01:59.380 --> 01:02:08.460 Hi, my name's Cheryl Altman. 01:02:08.460 --> 01:02:09.460 Congratulations. 01:02:09.460 --> 01:02:14.300 Hopefully you can help look out for the homeless because we just had a lady pass away and nobody 01:02:14.300 --> 01:02:15.739 really cared about her. 01:02:15.739 --> 01:02:18.340 they just froze with it, what a shame. 01:02:19.940 --> 01:02:21.980 Second of all, I'm talking about the property 01:02:21.980 --> 01:02:26.860 at 101 Liberty Street, which is claimed by the city owns it. 01:02:26.860 --> 01:02:30.059 They did own it in 2013, but in 2014, 01:02:30.059 --> 01:02:31.519 it went to Elbers property. 01:02:32.780 --> 01:02:36.579 So who really owns this and who's not telling the truth here? 01:02:36.579 --> 01:02:38.559 Kind of figure out if Elbers putting a lot of money 01:02:38.559 --> 01:02:39.900 in that building, they probably own it 01:02:39.900 --> 01:02:43.539 because to Rob and you, the city owns it. 01:02:43.539 --> 01:02:50.460 Also Rob, I need those papers, I don't know what you're trying to hide is because you 01:02:50.460 --> 01:02:56.059 and Wayne knew the people that tore down these buildings didn't have their license and it's 01:02:56.059 --> 01:03:00.519 a violation because they have to have their license and they did not. 01:03:00.519 --> 01:03:04.460 So if you don't want to give me these paperwork, I'll have to file and do what Akia Sanders 01:03:04.460 --> 01:03:05.460 did. 01:03:05.460 --> 01:03:06.460 No problem. 01:03:06.460 --> 01:03:07.460 Any other problems? 01:03:07.460 --> 01:03:08.460 Tommy? 01:03:08.460 --> 01:03:20.710 I wanted to thank you for that. Priest chief gonna do a good job working at the priest 01:03:20.710 --> 01:03:29.710 department and everything. And Stacey, you do a good job at City. 01:03:29.710 --> 01:03:31.710 Thank you, Tom. 01:03:31.710 --> 01:03:37.269 Don Parker, what do you think? I wanted to tell you, you did a good job and that lady 01:03:37.269 --> 01:03:38.269 was. 01:03:38.269 --> 01:03:39.269 Thank you. 01:03:39.269 --> 01:04:17.720 Javonte. Good evening, everyone. I'm Javonte Brown. Congratulations, Chief. I would like to invite everyone to the Kings Day celebration. I'm with the BSU for the Freeport High School. I serve as a social media manager on Saturday, January 17th. We'll be selling the Martin Luther King program. The theme is freedom at the FMS Jeanette Louie Theater at 5 p.m. until. Thank you. Any other public comments? 01:04:17.720 --> 01:04:22.840 Can I ask a question? Sure. Just to Darren, Darren, have we heard any more on the 01:04:22.840 --> 01:04:26.039 modernizing because I know it was stopped when the government quit and all 01:04:26.039 --> 01:04:33.480 that. I just thought of that just so we all know. Sure. The money's still secured and right now 01:04:33.480 --> 01:04:38.440 we're kind of in a holding pattern because of the roofs where they're 01:04:38.440 --> 01:04:42.119 interconnected. We don't want to open up the neighboring building in the middle 01:04:42.119 --> 01:04:46.360 of winter so we intend to wait till spring to take them down but we still 01:04:46.360 --> 01:04:51.239 We'll have the DCO money to do that. 01:04:51.239 --> 01:04:55.960 The shutdown, the governmental shutdown was the delay and at that point once we got to 01:04:55.960 --> 01:05:00.019 December and we started getting the snowfall, I don't want to take the chance of damaging 01:05:00.019 --> 01:05:04.480 a neighboring building. 01:05:04.480 --> 01:05:06.279 Next is item number 15, executive session. 01:05:06.279 --> 01:05:08.739 Madam Clerk, could you please read this for the record? 01:05:08.739 --> 01:05:15.079 Just one, pursuant to 5 ILCS 122C21, discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under 01:05:15.079 --> 01:05:19.880 for this act, whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual 01:05:19.880 --> 01:05:23.000 review of the minutes as mandated by section 2.06. 01:05:23.000 --> 01:05:25.599 Is there a motion to enter into executive? 01:05:25.599 --> 01:05:26.599 So moved. 01:05:26.599 --> 01:05:27.599 Second. 01:05:27.599 --> 01:05:31.639 Moving motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. 01:05:31.639 --> 01:05:37.079 Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? 01:05:37.079 --> 01:05:38.079 Sellers? 01:05:38.079 --> 01:05:39.079 Aye. 01:05:39.079 --> 01:05:40.079 Klemm? 01:05:40.079 --> 01:05:41.079 Aye. 01:05:41.079 --> 01:05:42.079 Johnson? 01:05:42.079 --> 01:05:43.079 Aye. 01:05:43.079 --> 01:05:44.079 Simmons? 01:05:44.079 --> 01:05:45.079 Aye. 01:05:45.079 --> 01:05:46.079 Parker? 01:05:46.079 --> 01:05:47.079 Aye. 01:05:47.079 --> 01:05:49.079 The motion passes.