WEBVTT

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Good evening.

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Pastor Anna, could you please give the invocation this evening?

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God bless everyone.

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We're going to pray.

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Heavenly Father, in the mighty name of Jesus,

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we thank you for the privilege and opportunity

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to be gathered here.

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And we are grateful for Mayor and all the people

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who make up this board.

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May the Holy Spirit guide you in enlightening your mind and heart with truth, wisdom, love

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and peace so that you can make the right decisions that will be of our free poor community.

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Lord may be glorified in every decision that is made.

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In your glorious name, we pray.

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Amen.

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Mayor Miller, Alderpersons, Klemm, Monroe, Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers

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Here.

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And if you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Alderman Stacy.

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Item number one is the approval of the agenda.

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Is there such a motion?

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So moved.

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Second.

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The motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.

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All those in favor signify by saying aye.

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Aye.

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Opposed?

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That motion passes.

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Item number two is the approval of the minutes from the regular meeting on March 3rd, 2025.

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Is there a motion to approve?

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So moved.

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Second.

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The motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Monroe.

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All those in favor signify by saying aye.

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Aye.

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Opposed?

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Yes.

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The first and the second, please.

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Shadle and Monroe.

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Thank you.

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That motion passes.

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There were no public comments signed in, so we'll move on to the consent agenda.

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The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion unless the

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member of the council would like to have something removed for further discussion.

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Seeing none, the consent agenda is to approve and place on file the board and commission

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minutes from the Liquor Commission, February 6, 2025, and the Board of Fire and Police Commission

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from February 25, 2025.

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The finance department report and the cash and investment report for January 25, the

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building permit, the fire department, the police department,

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the finance department and the cash and finance report

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dated February, 2025 and the greater Freeport partnership

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as well as the building permit report for March, 2025.

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Also is approval of the pine finance bills payable

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in the total of 3,521,665.74 cents

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and payroll for pay period ending March 8th, 2025

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in the total of $672,488.13 as well as payroll for March 22nd, 2025 in the total of $676,893.96.

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Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda?

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So moved.

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Second.

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Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker.

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Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

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Stacy?

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Aye.

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Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The motion passes eight to zero. We have a great network of dedicated ladies in the community called All Our Kids Network, so I would like to end child. So I wanted to read the proclamation on your behalf, which is Child Abuse Prevention Month. You know what? I'm going to need my glasses.

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it's a lot of reading. Okay so whereas all our kids network is a group of

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community stakeholders who collaboratively work to influence system

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change that will strengthen the overall family well-being and whereas Freeport's

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future prosperity and quality of life depends on the healthy development of

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the children residing across our city and whereas preventing child abuse and

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neglect must be a priority that requires individuals, families, child-serving

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and others.

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We are working with different organizations, schools, faith-based groups, organizations,

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government agencies, and civic leaders to support the physical, emotional, social, and

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educational well-being of all of our children.

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And whereas child abuse is a serious public health issue with wide-ranging societal consequences

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as data shows the link between abuse and neglect of children and a wide range of costly

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Huffman, John, and John.

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The

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program is focused on the

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medical, emotional, psychological and behavioral issues in

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adulthood. And whereas parents and caregivers who have the

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support system of family and friends know where to find

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public resources and understand how to maintain resiliency in

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the changing of times with the best equipping for providing

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Miller, and Jodi Miller will host the Blue Ribbon Week April 6 through the 12th to help

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spread awareness, hope, and education on the topic of child abuse.

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Now, therefore, I, Jodi Miller, declare April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention Month and the

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second week of April as Blue Ribbon Week throughout the City of Freeport and encourage all of

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Mayor, we would like to thank you and all the aldermen and city council.

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On behalf of the AOK Network here in Stevenson County and all its partners for signing the

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Proclamation to Prevent Child Abuse, Bright Point, the company I work for, has provided

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the blue bows that you may have seen all over the county.

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They're in front of the office, they're at the municipal court, the police department,

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and I have provided you all with blue bows.

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It all started 35 years ago when a Virginia grandmother tied a blue bow on her antenna

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of her car to honor her 18-month-old grandson who was a victim of child abuse.

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Her simple act ignited a national campaign to raise awareness of child abuse and to prevent

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it and to take action to stop it.

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The blue bow is now recognized as the national symbol of child abuse prevention.

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And in April of 1994, Bright Point held its first blue bow campaign for child abuse prevention.

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And as we continue, it grows and every year we are proud to support this good cause.

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So I'm going to talk a little bit more about the blue ribbon campaign.

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I'm Allegra Cozier, I'm with Tyler's Justice Center for Children, which is a children's

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advocacy center that provides services for Stevenson, Joe Davies, and Carroll Counties.

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So a little bit more on the Blue Ribbon Campaign.

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The Blue Ribbon Child Abuse Campaign began in 1989 by a Virginia grandmother named Bonnie

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and by a Virginia grandmother named Bonnie Finney.

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Bonnie had one daughter who was married

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and had three children who were 16 months,

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three years old and four years old.

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Bonnie stated that she had suspected her daughter

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and her daughter's husband used drugs

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and she knew that the couple had a stormy relationship.

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In her own words, Bonnie recalls a time

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when she was sure her grandchildren were being abused.

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It's been so long since I sat by his side in the hospital.

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Of course, I knew something was wrong as I sat there.

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I saw fear on his face, the bruises on his body,

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and the healing cigarette burns on his hands.

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Bonnie's grandson was placed in a foster home.

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He told his foster mom, my mama doesn't love me.

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Months went by without Bonnie seeing her grandson.

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Bonnie stated that she knew something was wrong,

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but her pleas for help went unheard.

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It wasn't until her 16 month old granddaughter

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ended up in the hospital after being severely beaten

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and burned that the search began

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for Bonnie's missing grandson.

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His body was found in a swamp after he had been dumped there

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three months earlier when he was beaten to death

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by his parents.

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Bonnie tied a blue ribbon to her van antenna

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to bring awareness to the community.

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Bonnie said, why the color blue?

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I never intend to forget the battered bruised bodies

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of my grandchildren.

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Blue served as a constant reminder to fight for our children.

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So thank you Mayor Miller and the Freeport City Council

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for making this proclamation.

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It means so much to us, but more so it means the world

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to our child survivors.

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So thank you.

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Oh yes. Hi. On behalf of the Week of the Young Child, whereas Birth to Five Illinois and

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other local organizations, in conjunction with the National Association of Education

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of Young Children, we are celebrating the Week of the Young Child. And whereas the Week

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of the Young Child was established in recognition that early childhood years, prenatal through

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age eight, lay the foundation for children's success in school and later in life. And whereas

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Its purpose is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families

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and caregivers and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet

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those needs.

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And whereas children's cognitive, social, emotional, language and literacy development

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are built on a foundation of children's positive interaction with adults, peers and their environment.

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And whereas the week of the young child is a time to recognize that children's opportunities

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are our responsibility and to recommit ourselves to ensuring that every child experiences the type of

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early learning environment that will promote their development and growth and whereas participation

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in high quality early childhood education prepares children to succeed in school earn higher wages

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and live healthier lives now therefore I Jodi Miller declare April 5th through the 11th 2025

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as week of the young child in Freeport and encourage all of our citizens to work to make

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Thank you, Madam Mayor. The Mayor has given me a total of two minutes tonight to speak.

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She knows me too well. I put a flyer, if you will, on each of the Councilman's desks. This

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is the same information I gave last year. We haven't had much movement since last year.

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Freeport School District is doing some great things

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with preschool, which owns Farrar,

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putting all the preschool classrooms together,

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which I think will be a great success.

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But we need more.

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We need more buildings.

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We need more home childcare.

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We need more nonprofit childcare.

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We need more.

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We have got to get our children ready for kindergarten.

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That is the best thing that we can do as a community,

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to give them a good start in school.

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in order to do that, studies have shown,

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preschool is the way to go.

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So I leave that with you.

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I leave those stats with you.

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And the thought of what we're going to do over the next year,

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we, to get this done.

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Thank you.

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Thank you.

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One more, certainly not the least.

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This is National Library Week 2025.

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Whereas libraries spark creativity, fuel imagination,

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and

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Keeley.

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And we're going to start with a

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space where individuals of all ages can explore new ideas and

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be drawn to new possibilities. And whereas libraries serve as

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a vibrant community hub connecting people with

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knowledge, technology and resources while fostering civic

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engagement, critical thinking and lifelong learning. And

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whereas libraries provide free and equitable access to books,

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and

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the

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library.

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And whereas libraries partner with schools, businesses and

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organizations connecting the dots to maximize resources, increase

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efficiency and expand access to essential services, strengthening

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the entire community.

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And whereas libraries empower job seekers, entrepreneurs and

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lifelong learners by providing access to resources, training and

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opportunities that support career growth and economic success.

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and

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John, and the

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library.

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The libraries nurture young minds through storytime, STEM

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programs and literacy initiatives fostering curiosity

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and the love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

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Whereas libraries protect the right to read, think and explore

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without censorship, standing as champions of intellectual

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freedom and free expression.

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For All. And whereas libraries, librarians, and library workers across the country are

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joining together to celebrate National Library Week under the theme Drawn to the Library.

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Now therefore, I, Jodi Miller, declare April 6th through the 12th as National Library Week

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in the City of Freeport. During this week, I encourage all residents to visit our library,

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explore its resources, and celebrate all the ways that the library draws us together as

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a community.

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First of all, thank you to everyone here for your support of our library that allows us

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to continue to grow and improve the services that we provide to everyone in our community.

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Thank you to the Board of Trustees and our dedicated library patrons, but most of all,

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thank you for our amazing team of library workers.

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I appreciate everything you do to make our library excellent.

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Today I also stand here to advocate for my greatest passion in life, libraries.

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On March 14th, an executive order to defund the Institute of Museum and Library Services

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was signed.

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This will devastate libraries across America, especially in underserved communities.

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Although I support responsible government spending and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy,

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IMLS stands out as a model federal agency that maximizes every dollar of its modest

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and

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John.

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I'm also pleased to announce that the

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federal budget is a key part of the

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state's budget to deliver exceptional

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value and meaningful impact for

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Americans and communities nationwide.

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With just 0.003% of the federal

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budget, IMLS funding helps libraries

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across the country provide programs

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and services that support more than

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1.2 billion in-person patron visits

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annually plus countless additional

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and

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the

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community in Freeport, Illinois. Although we do not receive money

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directly from IMLS, the Illinois State Library does. Our consortium,

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Prairie Cat, does. Our library system, Rails, does. The State

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Library, Prairie Cat, and Rails provide our library with resources

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we would not otherwise be able to offer. These organizations

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connect libraries across the state creating statewide sharing for

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We're providing our community with a wealth of information, knowledge, and resource access.

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Without funding from IMLS, state grants will not be as accessible, removing the ability

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for our library to provide needed resources, such as the new computers that we just received

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in 2024.

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To celebrate National Library Week, I ask you to stand up and advocate for our library.

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and

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the

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library.

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Please stand up and advocate for the libraries of Illinois and

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stand up to advocate for libraries across the United

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States. Please take time to make your voice heard by calling your

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representatives and advocating for libraries. If you need

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resources to help advocate, you can find me at the library and

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and last but certainly not least happy National Library Week. Thank You Ashley.

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We'll move on to item number six which is the appointments. Madam Clerk could you

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please read those for the record. Appointment of Eric Bornemann to the

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Enterprise Zone through January 1, 2028. Dustin Wilkinson to the Planning

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Commission through October 31st, 28. Brad Hartog to the Board of Zoning Appeals

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Commission through June 30th, 2030. Reappointments of Jeff Williams to the

00:20:35.019 --> 00:20:39.140
to the Firefighters Pension Board through April 30th, 28,

00:20:39.140 --> 00:20:41.500
Jeff Williams to the Police Pension Board

00:20:41.500 --> 00:20:44.900
through April 30th, 2027, and Randy Bukas

00:20:44.900 --> 00:20:46.779
to the Board of Housing Authority Commission

00:20:46.779 --> 00:20:49.140
through October 31st, 2030.

00:20:50.599 --> 00:20:51.440
Alderman Parker?

00:20:51.440 --> 00:20:52.259
Motion to approve.

00:20:52.259 --> 00:20:53.259
Second.

00:20:53.259 --> 00:20:55.980
We have a motion made by Alderman Parker,

00:20:55.980 --> 00:20:58.259
seconded by Alderman Klemm.

00:20:58.259 --> 00:21:01.299
Any discussion?

00:21:01.299 --> 00:21:05.519
All those, can I do an, oh, I'm sorry, Alderman Sanders?

00:21:11.460 --> 00:21:19.619
At any point in time that these reappointments have been part of the council's discussion?

00:21:19.619 --> 00:21:24.660
That's what tonight is, they're a mayor appointment and council approval.

00:21:24.660 --> 00:21:28.980
Okay, so this is it, this will be laying the groundwork for discussion?

00:21:28.980 --> 00:21:29.980
Yes.

00:21:29.980 --> 00:21:30.980
Okay.

00:21:30.980 --> 00:21:31.980
I saw the word tonight.

00:21:31.980 --> 00:21:32.980
All right.

00:21:32.980 --> 00:21:36.470
Anything else?

00:21:36.470 --> 00:21:38.470
Can we do a roll call?

00:21:38.470 --> 00:21:41.150
Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

00:21:41.150 --> 00:21:42.150
Stacy?

00:21:42.150 --> 00:21:46.099
Hold it. Hold it. Hold it.

00:21:46.099 --> 00:21:48.099
Alderman Simmons?

00:21:48.099 --> 00:21:54.630
Alderman Sanders, if you had something to discuss, that would be now.

00:21:54.630 --> 00:22:00.630
Yes. I didn't think the floor is open for this particular?

00:22:00.630 --> 00:22:02.630
No.

00:22:02.630 --> 00:22:08.630
Because I'm trying to get someone to express the fact that it's open for discussion.

00:22:08.630 --> 00:22:10.630
Yeah, that's what I said.

00:22:10.630 --> 00:22:13.630
And no one has admitted that it was open for discussion.

00:22:13.630 --> 00:22:21.150
I asked if there was any discussion. No one said anything. I don't think that was

00:22:21.150 --> 00:22:26.730
what I was asking but I was asking just because the listing was made there was

00:22:26.730 --> 00:22:33.170
a listing of but there's nothing indicated here about discussions and so I

00:22:33.170 --> 00:22:38.910
asked the question whether or not does this lay a groundwork for discussion.

00:22:38.910 --> 00:22:47.720
right all for discussion and the mayor said yes so now's the time to have the

00:22:47.720 --> 00:22:52.639
discussion well I don't know when that's supposed to happen right now okay right

00:22:52.639 --> 00:23:02.360
now that's that's what I'm getting that so okay yeah I I wanted to address the

00:23:02.360 --> 00:23:07.720
fact that we're indicating reappointments of individuals and then

00:23:07.720 --> 00:23:19.259
We're re-appointing people that has already been part of these boards and the fact that

00:23:19.259 --> 00:23:27.559
we have not talked about whether or not the board was open to public opportunities to join

00:23:27.559 --> 00:23:33.720
these particular boards so we don't have a redundancy of re-appointing the same heads

00:23:33.720 --> 00:23:39.920
of these boards and what's the, and I see the date durations of the expirations of when

00:23:39.920 --> 00:23:45.599
these boards supposed to conclude, but the thing about it is we're talking about it now

00:23:45.599 --> 00:23:52.279
had it been open to the public so the public can be informed about possibility of joining

00:23:52.279 --> 00:24:00.799
these boards so we don't have the same board members on a regular basis, scheduled appointments

00:24:00.799 --> 00:24:01.960
or whatever the case is.

00:24:01.960 --> 00:24:05.440
I just want to know what are we doing in regards to that

00:24:05.440 --> 00:24:08.599
because I don't see any protocols here.

00:24:08.599 --> 00:24:10.639
That's what I'm getting at when it comes

00:24:10.639 --> 00:24:15.639
to reappointing anyone to anything.

00:24:16.680 --> 00:24:19.360
And that's the reason why I'm having this discussion

00:24:19.360 --> 00:24:24.000
because I don't feel comfortable putting the same heads,

00:24:24.000 --> 00:24:29.000
the same old heads back in making board decisions,

00:24:29.000 --> 00:24:40.279
making changes to our city dynamics with the same board heads so I'm saying what

00:24:40.279 --> 00:24:48.200
I'm really saying is do have we did a an extensive public notification for fresh

00:24:48.200 --> 00:24:53.920
new board members for these for these appointed positions that's what I'm

00:24:53.920 --> 00:24:59.839
getting at and your answer to that is yes okay every time I speak somewhere I

00:24:59.839 --> 00:25:23.500
I just wanted to say, Audemars Sanders, that we don't have say so in this matter. The mayor

00:25:23.500 --> 00:25:29.619
appoints who she chooses to these boards.

00:25:29.619 --> 00:25:37.220
And we vote yay or nay, but she has the say so

00:25:37.220 --> 00:25:40.460
of who she appoints.

00:25:40.460 --> 00:25:42.259
We accept it or we don't.

00:25:42.259 --> 00:25:43.139
We vote on it.

00:25:43.139 --> 00:25:46.569
It pass or it don't.

00:25:46.569 --> 00:25:47.130
OK.

00:25:47.130 --> 00:25:47.630
OK.

00:25:47.630 --> 00:25:50.089
OK, thank you.

00:25:50.089 --> 00:25:51.730
If there's no further discussion,

00:25:51.730 --> 00:25:53.250
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

00:25:53.250 --> 00:26:16.339
Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? No. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Motion passes six to two.

00:26:16.339 --> 00:26:21.139
Thank you. We'll move on to item number seven, which is recognition of service awards, Chief.

00:26:21.139 --> 00:26:52.019
So tonight, we'd like to recognize Lieutenant Dylan Markham. Markham was hired on April 10th, 2016.

00:26:52.019 --> 00:26:58.259
Lieutenant Markham has served the city in a variety of positions, as a member of our emergency response team,

00:26:58.259 --> 00:27:06.180
a school resource officer, a corporal on patrol, a patrol sergeant, and Lieutenant Markham was promoted into

00:27:06.180 --> 00:27:09.059
who are at current position in the administrative lieutenant

00:27:09.059 --> 00:27:11.619
on January 16th, 2024.

00:27:13.139 --> 00:27:15.779
Lieutenant Markham sits on the regional advisory committee

00:27:15.779 --> 00:27:19.860
for CESA, and CESA is a Community Emergency Services

00:27:19.860 --> 00:27:21.220
and Supports Act.

00:27:21.220 --> 00:27:23.980
CESA was created to coordinate nine-on-one

00:27:23.980 --> 00:27:26.660
with mobile mental health response services

00:27:26.660 --> 00:27:28.339
being developed by the Illinois Department

00:27:28.339 --> 00:27:30.539
in the mental health.

00:27:30.539 --> 00:27:32.779
Lieutenant Markham is instrumental in restarting

00:27:32.779 --> 00:27:36.019
the resource officer program with our school,

00:27:36.019 --> 00:27:39.519
R. S. R. O., assigned to the Bridgeport School District.

00:27:39.519 --> 00:27:41.240
She also oversees the Dispatch Center

00:27:41.240 --> 00:27:44.559
and our Bridgeport Police Department Social Worker.

00:27:44.559 --> 00:27:46.720
Lieutenant Mark Gilm collaborates with stakeholders

00:27:46.720 --> 00:27:49.360
in the community to find assistance for individuals

00:27:49.360 --> 00:27:52.460
experiencing medical health crisis.

00:27:52.460 --> 00:27:55.119
She also maintains and develops the department policy

00:27:55.119 --> 00:27:56.559
and procedure and our training.

00:27:57.759 --> 00:28:00.480
Lieutenant Mark Gilm is currently working towards

00:28:00.480 --> 00:28:03.960
department I.D. tier one accreditation right now.

00:28:03.960 --> 00:29:02.240
did you want to say anything you can't do that all right item number eight is the

00:29:02.240 --> 00:29:05.519
second reading of ordinance 2025 14 madam clerk could you please read this

00:29:05.519 --> 00:29:10.519
ordinance adopting the official zoning map of the city of Freeport thank you

00:29:10.519 --> 00:29:26.940
director Duckman thank you madam mayor I put up the zoning map for you to view

00:29:26.940 --> 00:29:31.320
nothing's changed since the first reading of this ordinance and it's an

00:29:31.320 --> 00:29:37.279
annual requirement by statute for the city to pass an ordinance for the

00:29:37.279 --> 00:29:42.679
current zoning map so staff is recommending approval of this ordinance

00:29:42.679 --> 00:29:48.990
Is there any further discussion on this? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please take the

00:29:48.990 --> 00:29:52.110
roll. Stacy.

00:29:56.000 --> 00:30:04.559
Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye.

00:30:04.559 --> 00:30:10.960
And Parker? Aye. The ordinance passes 8-0. Item number 9 is the first reading of ordinance

00:30:10.960 --> 00:30:17.039
2025-15. Could you please read this? Ordinance authorizing sale, recycling, donation, and

00:30:17.039 --> 00:30:21.779
or disposal of certain property owned by the city. Tonight we have public works equipment

00:30:21.779 --> 00:30:23.460
and Police Department equipment,

00:30:23.460 --> 00:30:26.579
including bicycles at city yards.

00:30:26.579 --> 00:30:27.819
Chief Shenberger.

00:30:27.819 --> 00:30:28.640
Thank you.

00:30:28.640 --> 00:30:29.660
The Freeport Police Department

00:30:29.660 --> 00:30:32.180
and the City Public Works Department,

00:30:32.180 --> 00:30:34.740
as well as the Water and Sewer Department

00:30:34.740 --> 00:30:36.539
are currently in need of disposing property

00:30:36.539 --> 00:30:38.160
at the Freeport City Yards.

00:30:39.259 --> 00:30:41.220
As far as the police department's concerned,

00:30:41.220 --> 00:30:43.200
we have abandoned bikes that have been in the possession

00:30:43.200 --> 00:30:46.019
of the Freeport Police Department for at least six months,

00:30:46.019 --> 00:30:47.859
an outdated and unusable property

00:30:47.859 --> 00:30:50.660
that's being stored at the city yards.

00:30:50.660 --> 00:30:55.819
The property that the Police Department elected to destroy includes three office chairs, a

00:30:55.819 --> 00:31:01.579
round table with six chairs, and then abandoned bikes that were collected throughout the city.

00:31:01.579 --> 00:31:05.880
Alderman Parker?

00:31:05.880 --> 00:31:09.319
You may make a motion to approve and to suspend the rules.

00:31:09.319 --> 00:31:10.319
Second.

00:31:10.319 --> 00:31:16.519
Okay, we have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers to move Ordinance

00:31:16.519 --> 00:31:18.779
2025-15 on.

00:31:18.779 --> 00:31:23.759
Settlers also motion to suspend the rules, which the suspension of the rules must pass

00:31:23.759 --> 00:31:26.880
by two-thirds majority and is non-debatable.

00:31:26.880 --> 00:31:30.900
So Madam Clerk, could you please take the role on the suspension only?

00:31:30.900 --> 00:31:31.900
Stacy?

00:31:31.900 --> 00:31:32.900
Aye.

00:31:32.900 --> 00:31:33.900
Shadle?

00:31:33.900 --> 00:31:34.900
Aye.

00:31:34.900 --> 00:31:35.900
Sanders?

00:31:35.900 --> 00:31:36.900
No.

00:31:36.900 --> 00:31:37.900
Sellers?

00:31:37.900 --> 00:31:38.900
Aye.

00:31:38.900 --> 00:31:39.900
Klemm?

00:31:39.900 --> 00:31:40.900
Aye.

00:31:40.900 --> 00:31:41.900
Monroe?

00:31:41.900 --> 00:31:42.900
Aye.

00:31:42.900 --> 00:31:43.900
Simmons?

00:31:43.900 --> 00:31:44.900
Aye.

00:31:44.900 --> 00:31:45.900
And Parker?

00:31:45.900 --> 00:31:46.900
Aye.

00:31:46.900 --> 00:31:47.900
The suspension passes seven to one.

00:31:47.900 --> 00:31:51.980
before you is the final reading for this ordinance, Alderman

00:31:51.980 --> 00:31:52.980
Monroe.

00:31:52.980 --> 00:31:54.299
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:31:54.299 --> 00:31:56.940
Chief, have we, are any of the bikes

00:31:56.940 --> 00:31:58.660
that you're looking to dispose of,

00:31:58.660 --> 00:32:03.019
are they something we could give out to the community?

00:32:03.019 --> 00:32:05.940
Or are all of them just needing to be destroyed?

00:32:05.940 --> 00:32:07.860
They're in pretty poor condition.

00:32:07.860 --> 00:32:11.819
However, there was somebody, I prepared this memo a while ago.

00:32:11.819 --> 00:32:14.180
But since that time, there was somebody

00:32:14.180 --> 00:32:16.619
who approached one of our employees

00:32:16.619 --> 00:32:17.619
Huffines.

00:32:17.619 --> 00:32:21.119
That is associated with the Salvation Army that has asked to look at them before we get

00:32:21.119 --> 00:32:22.119
rid of them.

00:32:22.119 --> 00:32:23.880
So we are going to do that.

00:32:23.880 --> 00:32:24.880
Awesome.

00:32:24.880 --> 00:32:25.880
Thank you.

00:32:25.880 --> 00:32:28.220
Well, I mean, Sanders.

00:32:28.220 --> 00:32:36.819
So and with that, can anyone in the city go and evaluate those?

00:32:36.819 --> 00:32:37.819
Yeah.

00:32:37.819 --> 00:32:42.339
I mean, we opened up, we have it opened up, I mean, we can't just go there, but to come

00:32:42.339 --> 00:32:46.480
down the police department, if somebody is missing a bike, they can come down the police

00:32:46.480 --> 00:32:48.480
and

00:32:49.480 --> 00:32:51.480
Suttman, and we can take them or if we get a description of it

00:32:52.480 --> 00:32:54.480
and they can provide a description of it, then we can

00:32:55.480 --> 00:32:58.480
see if it's there. But generally, most of these are in

00:32:59.480 --> 00:33:01.480
pretty poor condition. They were just abandoned and stuff like

00:33:02.480 --> 00:33:06.009
that.

00:33:07.009 --> 00:33:09.009
» There's no further discussion. Madam Clerk, please take

00:33:10.009 --> 00:33:12.009
the roll. » Stacy?

00:33:13.009 --> 00:33:15.009
» Aye. » Shadle?

00:33:15.009 --> 00:33:22.769
Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. The ordinance passes 8 to 0.

00:33:22.769 --> 00:33:27.670
And item number 10 is the first reading of ordinance 2025-17. Could you please read this?

00:33:27.670 --> 00:33:33.130
Ordinance amending the codified ordinances regarding residency requirements for certain

00:33:33.130 --> 00:33:39.389
positions. Thank you. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. This came out of a discussion a few

00:33:39.389 --> 00:33:45.589
a couple of meetings ago related to what the residency requirement was for city directors

00:33:45.589 --> 00:33:48.389
and officers of the city.

00:33:48.389 --> 00:33:54.910
So the city is, I am putting forward the proposal to remove certain positions from the residency

00:33:54.910 --> 00:33:58.509
requirement except for the city manager position.

00:33:58.509 --> 00:34:03.210
So the ones that we'd be removing would be the police chief, the fire chief, deputy chief

00:34:03.210 --> 00:34:07.829
of police, lieutenants of the police department, sergeants of the police department, deputy

00:34:07.829 --> 00:34:10.590
Chief of the Fire Department, District Chiefs of the Fire

00:34:10.590 --> 00:34:15.630
Department, Licensed Officers or designee, Deputy City

00:34:15.630 --> 00:34:19.190
Manager of Finance, Community Development, and Human

00:34:19.190 --> 00:34:22.190
Resources, Public Works Director, Finance Director,

00:34:22.190 --> 00:34:24.710
Community and Economic Development Director, and

00:34:24.710 --> 00:34:27.190
Director of Information Technology, as well as Human

00:34:27.190 --> 00:34:30.470
Resources. The idea behind this is it's going to allow the

00:34:30.470 --> 00:34:33.230
city to have a little more flexible hiring practice in

00:34:33.230 --> 00:34:37.269
terms of who we can recruit, when they will, when they come

00:34:37.269 --> 00:34:44.670
on board, not having to relocate is kind of an advantage in terms of bringing on

00:34:44.670 --> 00:34:50.070
qualified staff to work for the city. So it's my recommendation that we move

00:34:50.070 --> 00:34:55.750
forward with ordinance 2025-17. Is there a motion to move this forward?

00:34:55.750 --> 00:34:59.550
A motion to move it forward and also to suspend the rules to vote on

00:34:59.550 --> 00:35:05.750
tonight. We have a motion made by Alderman Parker. I know you are. Okay that's

00:35:05.750 --> 00:35:13.989
Yes. Inappropriate. Is there a second? Second. Okay. We have a second made by Alderman Shadle

00:35:13.989 --> 00:35:18.369
to move this ordinance forward. We also have a suspension of the rules, which is again

00:35:18.369 --> 00:35:22.949
non-debatable and is passed by two-thirds majority. Madam Clerk, could you please take

00:35:22.949 --> 00:35:30.230
the suspension vote, please? Did we get a second on the suspension, Mayor? No. Alderman

00:35:30.230 --> 00:36:00.230
Shadle. Shadle, thank you. We'll begin with Stacy. No. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. No. Sellers. Aye. Klemm. Aye. Monroe. No. Simmons. No. Parker. Aye. The motion fails to get two-thirds vote. Okay, so let's go back to the first reading, which would be, is there any discussion? Well, actually, you know what? Yeah,

00:36:00.230 --> 00:36:02.829
No, I guess we've covered all that. Is there anything else that you want to

00:36:02.829 --> 00:36:06.029
discuss? Otherwise, it just moves to the second reading on the next. Alderman

00:36:06.029 --> 00:36:13.670
Sanders. Okay, this was something that we was considering avoiding this ordinance

00:36:13.670 --> 00:36:22.190
per se that for no further discussions. That's what we're doing right now. Yeah,

00:36:22.190 --> 00:36:27.710
I'm bringing the fact up that we shouldn't be discussing this on another

00:36:27.710 --> 00:36:36.110
Council meeting, COWA, whatever the case is, does this kill the opportunity for

00:36:36.110 --> 00:36:42.949
this agenda part of this ordinance to be brought before the council in the future?

00:36:42.949 --> 00:36:49.389
Attorney Zito? So this is first read, so it will come back to council at the next

00:36:49.389 --> 00:36:52.949
City Council meeting for second read and vote by the City Council. This was

00:36:52.949 --> 00:36:56.630
Previously at a Committee of the Whole meeting a few weeks ago.

00:36:56.630 --> 00:37:00.710
OK.

00:37:00.710 --> 00:37:01.909
Alderman.

00:37:01.909 --> 00:37:05.000
Stacy.

00:37:05.000 --> 00:37:08.199
City Manager Boyer.

00:37:08.199 --> 00:37:13.730
Out of these 15 positions, how many of them

00:37:13.730 --> 00:37:17.960
already reside in Freeport?

00:37:17.960 --> 00:37:20.039
I'll have to get back to you on the specifics.

00:37:20.039 --> 00:37:22.800
I know we have some folks that are not currently

00:37:22.800 --> 00:37:23.579
in city limits.

00:37:23.579 --> 00:37:28.599
Of course, that is something that happened before I was here.

00:37:28.599 --> 00:37:34.599
We have more out of city limits than we do in. Would that be a correct statement?

00:37:34.599 --> 00:37:36.599
I'd have to get back with you on that.

00:37:36.599 --> 00:37:37.599
Come on, ma'am.

00:37:37.599 --> 00:37:51.900
Okay. You know, and it was before I was seated, so I get that part before your time. But we

00:37:51.900 --> 00:38:02.699
We put these ordinance in place and then we, the city, do not even follow them.

00:38:02.699 --> 00:38:05.260
And that's a problem.

00:38:05.260 --> 00:38:19.699
And so I applied for a position and I'm told after accepting the position, I have six months

00:38:19.699 --> 00:38:23.860
to move to the city, correct?

00:38:23.860 --> 00:38:32.460
I never moved to the city and it's never enforced. I'd be happy to explain we've

00:38:32.460 --> 00:38:36.300
got folks here that have worked for the city for many years, did not have a

00:38:36.300 --> 00:38:41.099
residency requirement at the time of when they were in their position. They

00:38:41.099 --> 00:38:47.779
were promoted and they essentially were asked to take the position and they

00:38:47.779 --> 00:38:52.699
informed council that they were not willing to move for that and that was

00:38:52.699 --> 00:38:59.460
I'm not sure that this was accepted in one specific case, but we have a number of situations here. It's more about hiring.

00:38:59.460 --> 00:39:15.300
It's more difficult to recruit people because when we have the residency requirement, for instance, with let's just say, one of the district chiefs, they may not take a promotion because they don't want to pick up and move.

00:39:15.300 --> 00:39:20.699
And according to the ordinance, they should not take to position if they don't want to get up and move.

00:39:20.699 --> 00:39:25.860
okay so in some cases you have folks that work for the city for many years and

00:39:25.860 --> 00:39:30.460
we're already located and promoted in those positions and I think it makes a

00:39:30.460 --> 00:39:34.579
lot of sense for the city to step back from this residency requirement because

00:39:34.579 --> 00:39:38.539
it doesn't really do us any good what this does is it limits our ability to

00:39:38.539 --> 00:39:44.420
recruit it creates a situation where we we have to limit the folks that are able

00:39:44.420 --> 00:39:48.659
to work for the city by who wants to live within the city limits which

00:39:48.659 --> 00:39:54.019
which essentially is most communities are moving away from competitiveness.

00:39:54.019 --> 00:39:57.400
from from a competitiveness aspect so it's we're in a challenging time for the

00:39:57.400 --> 00:40:02.360
city we have a budget that's certainly not as big as some communities and we

00:40:02.360 --> 00:40:07.039
are having to compete for outside employees and with that competition

00:40:07.039 --> 00:40:11.320
comes whether we have a residency requirement on so we're not only very

00:40:11.320 --> 00:40:17.519
it's hard to be competitive on the pay level but it's also adds another layer

00:40:17.519 --> 00:40:21.159
of difficulty for recruitment with the residency requirement.

00:40:21.159 --> 00:40:27.719
So what I'm asking is that we modernize this ordinance and we alleviate these residency

00:40:27.719 --> 00:40:31.119
requirements for anyone except for the city manager.

00:40:31.119 --> 00:40:45.360
Truth be told, well, before truth be told, when was this ordinance created?

00:40:45.360 --> 00:40:49.199
I want to say right around 2017 is my guess, but let me double check.

00:40:49.199 --> 00:40:56.800
Miller, McCall. Alderman Sanders, you had your hand up? I'm waiting for my... Well he's

00:40:56.800 --> 00:41:03.780
checking so you can go ahead. Well I understand that there's an exemption

00:41:03.780 --> 00:41:12.900
being asked according to this agenda in regards to residency and and the fact

00:41:12.900 --> 00:41:16.900
and I have been asked to get rid of the status of our residents.

00:41:16.900 --> 00:41:22.900
I would like that an individual or individuals, in other words,

00:41:22.900 --> 00:41:28.900
to get rid of the residency, we're asking to exempt their

00:41:28.900 --> 00:41:34.900
status for our residency. Is that what we're implying here?

00:41:34.900 --> 00:41:41.900
And if we are, who's excluded from this, well, who's all

00:41:41.900 --> 00:41:42.900
and John.

00:41:42.900 --> 00:41:43.900
So, I think we need to look at the

00:41:43.900 --> 00:41:50.880
individual's or to the collective body of people that has already been chosen or have we explored

00:41:50.880 --> 00:41:56.179
the opportunity, the whole residency thing and the hiring practice.

00:41:56.179 --> 00:42:04.019
Have we had an opportunity to look at the justification for why we are considering outside

00:42:04.019 --> 00:42:09.940
residents when we have not explored an opportunity for inside residents?

00:42:09.940 --> 00:42:16.579
Have we done the exploratory surgery for the citizens of the city of Freeport as far as

00:42:16.579 --> 00:42:19.699
their qualification is concerned?

00:42:19.699 --> 00:42:21.260
Have we done that?

00:42:21.260 --> 00:42:23.619
The positions are listed in your packet.

00:42:23.619 --> 00:42:24.619
So they're there.

00:42:24.619 --> 00:42:27.579
And Alderman Stacy, the answer to your question is 2017.

00:42:27.579 --> 00:42:29.099
I'm already talking to someone.

00:42:29.099 --> 00:42:30.579
I asked a question.

00:42:30.579 --> 00:42:34.900
I want to get a direct answer from the person that I'm talking to.

00:42:34.900 --> 00:42:36.500
I wasn't talking to you.

00:42:36.500 --> 00:42:43.420
I'm asking this gentleman about the fact of our policy and the procedures and our protocol.

00:42:43.420 --> 00:42:50.679
I want to know how we're going through this thing to make these determinations in order

00:42:50.679 --> 00:42:59.380
for us to neglect the people in the city of Freeport the opportunity for the opportunity

00:42:59.380 --> 00:43:04.139
to get these types of jobs if they have not been conveyed to them as far as their openings

00:43:04.139 --> 00:43:05.139
is concerned.

00:43:05.139 --> 00:43:12.260
and Mike. And I'm curious. I'm really curious. How did outside residents get this information?

00:43:12.260 --> 00:43:19.820
And if we don't have a list of people that has applied for these positions, and we need

00:43:19.820 --> 00:43:27.019
to know whether or not that even happened. I know HR would probably have no applications

00:43:27.019 --> 00:43:34.179
and things of this nature to determine whether they qualified or not. You know, that kind

00:43:34.179 --> 00:43:40.659
of Things. So I like to know all of those things. Well, let me see if I can address your concern.

00:43:42.019 --> 00:43:48.739
Number one, when we put a posting out for one of our directors or whatever, there is a very,

00:43:48.739 --> 00:43:57.940
very small pool of people that apply, period. And folks from city limits, it's even smaller,

00:43:57.940 --> 00:44:04.179
okay if any. What we also have here is we have folks that work through the

00:44:04.179 --> 00:44:10.659
organization whether it's fire department or police or public works or whatever city hall

00:44:11.380 --> 00:44:16.739
and these folks have worked very diligently for the city and we were kind of in an environment

00:44:16.739 --> 00:44:21.619
where it's been a trend of all communities to move away from the residency requirement

00:44:21.619 --> 00:44:27.059
because they understand how it ties their hands in terms of hiring the best people for the job.

00:44:27.059 --> 00:44:33.900
so we may end up having a position sit empty if we continue to abide by the

00:44:33.900 --> 00:44:37.779
residency requirement when we would simply be able to hire someone from a

00:44:37.779 --> 00:44:41.900
surrounding community whether that's Lena or Pearl City or our surrounding

00:44:41.900 --> 00:44:46.220
communities or or whether that's some of the larger metro areas okay so one of

00:44:46.220 --> 00:44:50.139
the things that we were trying to do here is make get a higher quality staff

00:44:50.139 --> 00:44:54.980
by just making a small adjustment to the residency requirement here for everyone

00:44:54.980 --> 00:45:00.340
but the city manager. The city manager still has to live in city limits. Chief,

00:45:00.340 --> 00:45:05.139
did you want to add to that? Yeah, just some background on the police department.

00:45:05.139 --> 00:45:11.960
Our bargaining employees do not have a residency requirement, so our non-

00:45:11.960 --> 00:45:17.739
bargaining employees, sergeants, lieutenants, deputy chief, the most recent,

00:45:17.739 --> 00:45:21.099
I think the most recent ordinance, this has changed at least three times since

00:45:21.099 --> 00:45:27.019
I've been here for, in the 26 years I've been here, now have to live within 15 mile radius

00:45:27.019 --> 00:45:32.579
of City Hall unless they're under the prior ordinance, which was 20 miles.

00:45:32.579 --> 00:45:37.659
So if they're under the prior resident, our prior ordinance, they can be within 20 miles,

00:45:37.659 --> 00:45:39.980
but if they move again, it has to be within 15 miles.

00:45:39.980 --> 00:45:47.460
So the only one that the ordinance requires to reside in the city would be the chief of

00:45:47.460 --> 00:45:49.820
Police, not the other officers.

00:45:49.820 --> 00:45:52.460
And all the other officers, the non-bargaining officers,

00:45:52.460 --> 00:45:54.099
are in compliance with the ordinance.

00:45:54.099 --> 00:45:56.940
I just want to clarify that.

00:45:56.940 --> 00:45:58.019
Alderman Sellers?

00:45:58.019 --> 00:46:00.500
Yes, I guess Chief did answer my question.

00:46:00.500 --> 00:46:03.940
I was wondering, was there a radiance that they have to be in?

00:46:03.940 --> 00:46:08.019
And I also had someone that called me and said,

00:46:08.019 --> 00:46:11.739
could they also just be, they live in Stevenson County?

00:46:11.739 --> 00:46:15.340
Is that part of a requirement that we could add to it?

00:46:15.340 --> 00:46:18.940
but I do understand because we're looking for qualified people

00:46:18.940 --> 00:46:22.500
to do these jobs and it's not that we're saying

00:46:22.500 --> 00:46:27.059
that people that live here can't apply for the jobs,

00:46:27.059 --> 00:46:29.380
it's just that we're opening up to make sure

00:46:29.380 --> 00:46:32.099
that we get the best person for the job.

00:46:32.099 --> 00:46:36.619
So that's why I'm in agreement with it.

00:46:36.619 --> 00:46:38.539
Thank you, Alderman Stacey.

00:46:38.539 --> 00:46:46.019
Truth be told, most of these positions are hand-picked.

00:46:46.019 --> 00:46:51.860
And when they were accepted, they

00:46:51.860 --> 00:46:55.500
knew they weren't moving to Freeport.

00:46:55.500 --> 00:46:57.420
And the people that accepted them

00:46:57.420 --> 00:47:00.820
knew that they were not moving to Freeport.

00:47:00.820 --> 00:47:04.139
It's not because a lack of interest

00:47:04.139 --> 00:47:08.210
or filling a position.

00:47:08.210 --> 00:47:11.610
A couple of weeks ago, retired Chief Summers

00:47:11.610 --> 00:47:24.690
coming here crying over the mic about how he couldn't throw a football without someone

00:47:24.690 --> 00:47:31.809
coming by giving him the finger while he was throwing the football with his son.

00:47:31.809 --> 00:47:34.250
Why did he really come up in here crying?

00:47:34.250 --> 00:47:45.369
is my question, because we got mothers here that have had to bury their sons and daughters

00:47:45.369 --> 00:47:50.230
due to the violence here.

00:47:50.230 --> 00:48:00.940
And I think if people are held accountable according to the rule that's in place, according

00:48:00.940 --> 00:48:09.079
to the position that they want, maybe we will have a little more control over things, because

00:48:09.079 --> 00:48:15.039
I just feel that it's just a little different when it's your city or your town.

00:48:15.039 --> 00:48:21.559
City Manager?

00:48:21.559 --> 00:48:28.720
I just wanted to add one point to that, which is we are in a dynamic labor market.

00:48:28.720 --> 00:48:33.679
We have to be as flexible as we can to get the best candidates for the jobs that we have

00:48:33.679 --> 00:48:34.820
available.

00:48:34.820 --> 00:48:39.519
This is just one thing that we can do to make ourselves more competitive with the rest of

00:48:39.519 --> 00:48:41.840
the communities in our area.

00:48:41.840 --> 00:48:47.500
We hired you for public works director, and then the city manager before you wanted you

00:48:47.500 --> 00:48:55.320
in that position, and you got it, hand-picked.

00:48:55.320 --> 00:48:57.639
Alderman Klemm.

00:48:57.639 --> 00:49:01.559
Attorney Zito, could I ask the attorney a question?

00:49:01.559 --> 00:49:02.559
Sure.

00:49:02.559 --> 00:49:06.360
Being on the school board for a number of years and being here on a couple different

00:49:06.360 --> 00:49:09.360
sides of all this situation.

00:49:09.360 --> 00:49:10.360
Sure.

00:49:10.360 --> 00:49:14.480
Being here on the school board and being here and volunteering on a couple different sides

00:49:14.480 --> 00:49:21.679
of the situation. Attorney Zito, could you politely tell me if we can legally tell somebody

00:49:21.679 --> 00:49:26.849
where they can live today for a job?

00:49:26.849 --> 00:49:31.809
So the city is allowed to have residency requirements. We are allowed to have that, and the council

00:49:31.809 --> 00:49:37.849
at one point in 2017 did set residency requirements there. Now, what staff is proposing right

00:49:37.849 --> 00:49:42.110
now is ordinances, whether they be residency requirements or other types of ordinances,

00:49:42.110 --> 00:49:46.409
sometimes become outdated. Sometimes, you know, trends cause an ordinance to be outdated.

00:49:46.409 --> 00:49:50.650
I think that's what the city manager is saying there and that's why he's proposing to the

00:49:50.650 --> 00:49:52.010
council to remove the residency.

00:49:53.000 --> 00:49:55.000
Mr.

00:49:56.000 --> 00:49:58.000
Miller.

00:49:59.000 --> 00:50:01.000
I have a question.

00:50:02.000 --> 00:50:04.000
You guys can impose one or you guys cannot have one.

00:50:05.000 --> 00:50:08.000
I think the city manager is saying that at this time he is

00:50:08.000 --> 00:50:10.000
recommending to not have a residency requirement just

00:50:11.000 --> 00:50:13.000
because of the hiring difficulties and the such.

00:50:14.000 --> 00:50:16.000
Was that a yes or no? Yes, you can have

00:50:17.000 --> 00:50:19.000
requirements. Thank you.

00:50:20.000 --> 00:50:30.360
Ford, and it's a complex issue, but one issue that really keeps coming back is, you know,

00:50:30.360 --> 00:50:39.559
this council passes tax increases and we hold people accountable to the rules of law, to

00:50:39.559 --> 00:50:44.719
the rules of the community, and we've got district chiefs living in Wisconsin from the

00:50:44.719 --> 00:50:45.719
fire department.

00:50:45.719 --> 00:50:51.719
and a fire lieutenant that drives a vehicle to Stockton every day and back.

00:50:51.719 --> 00:50:56.599
That's 11,000 miles a year just on that vehicle.

00:50:56.599 --> 00:51:00.679
Plus we're paying for the gas, we're paying for the wear and tear.

00:51:00.679 --> 00:51:03.960
That person's getting free travel to and from work.

00:51:03.960 --> 00:51:06.639
Why don't we do it for every employee in the city?

00:51:06.639 --> 00:51:08.639
Why don't we do it for everybody?

00:51:08.639 --> 00:51:13.800
And the point is this, the people that don't live in our community don't

00:51:13.800 --> 00:51:43.800
We don't understand the problems, they don't communicate with our local community on a daily basis, they're trying to establish relationships without knowing the people, and these are big issues, because if you don't know where the problems are at, you don't live here, you don't get it, you don't drive through the town every day, you don't understand really what's going on. We've had zero houses built in this community in years.

00:51:43.800 --> 00:51:50.260
I mean, in the city of Freeport, how many new houses have been built in the last 10 years?

00:51:50.260 --> 00:51:52.059
Darren, you know that answer?

00:51:52.059 --> 00:52:00.019
I don't know the exact number, but we just had houses built on Rye Ridge this year, two or three.

00:52:00.019 --> 00:52:03.519
But I couldn't give you a number over 10 years.

00:52:03.519 --> 00:52:06.699
It's not many. Rye Ridge is about it.

00:52:06.699 --> 00:52:12.139
and otherwise it's condos which people have complained about left and right.

00:52:13.659 --> 00:52:21.500
You know they create issues but it comes back to the rule was in place and we ignored it.

00:52:21.500 --> 00:52:26.940
Right. We totally ignored it. That would be like me driving down the street at 50 miles an hour

00:52:27.500 --> 00:52:33.099
and tell the chief well I've been driving fast my whole life and nobody's giving me a ticket so it's

00:52:33.099 --> 00:52:34.099
Fremont.

00:52:34.099 --> 00:52:35.099
It's okay.

00:52:35.099 --> 00:52:40.019
His officers would tell me, well, here's a piece of paper, but yet we haven't done the

00:52:40.019 --> 00:52:41.019
same thing.

00:52:41.019 --> 00:52:48.219
We've got members of this staff, your staff, who have said they lived in Freeport and we

00:52:48.219 --> 00:52:50.539
have proof they haven't.

00:52:50.539 --> 00:52:52.340
It's fraud.

00:52:52.340 --> 00:52:54.019
Plain and simple.

00:52:54.019 --> 00:52:57.440
There's nothing else to it.

00:52:57.440 --> 00:53:04.079
And it basically falls into the point that if you're willing to do what a certain core

00:53:04.079 --> 00:53:09.159
and

00:53:09.159 --> 00:53:10.860
Mark.

00:53:10.860 --> 00:53:12.000
It's a crime.

00:53:12.000 --> 00:53:14.300
Plain and simple.

00:53:14.300 --> 00:53:16.900
You know it, I know it.

00:53:16.900 --> 00:53:22.039
And you can change the rule now but that doesn't change the fact that people haven't been

00:53:22.039 --> 00:53:26.559
following the ordinances that were put in place, not by this council, not by the last

00:53:26.559 --> 00:53:29.340
council, the council before that.

00:53:29.340 --> 00:53:30.340
2017.

00:53:30.340 --> 00:53:31.340
2017.

00:53:31.340 --> 00:54:01.340
I mean we're we're talking eight years ago and this has come up and and I seconded Alderman Parker putting this on here for a conversation because I think it's it's worthwhile you know what what are we willing we we can't even do certain things we talk about a water main going out Stevenson so that we can get more but yet we're spending money with vehicles with gas with other things where people

00:54:01.340 --> 00:54:03.340
and

00:54:04.340 --> 00:54:06.340
the

00:54:07.440 --> 00:54:09.440
community.

00:54:11.659 --> 00:54:13.659
You can't tell me that that district chief who lives in

00:54:13.760 --> 00:54:17.760
Monroe buys any gas here, buys anything in the city of Freeport.

00:54:20.860 --> 00:54:22.860
And that's a problem because when we depend on those tax

00:54:22.960 --> 00:54:25.960
dollars to fix our streets, to fix our infrastructure, but yet

00:54:26.059 --> 00:54:30.059
those people use it every day and they take $100,000 plus a

00:54:30.059 --> 00:54:37.579
and I, and they go right out of town. And that's not right. It's not right by any stretch

00:54:37.579 --> 00:54:45.840
of the imagination. And to even hint that the citizens of Freeport, that we can't get

00:54:45.840 --> 00:54:54.739
qualified candidates out of 25,000 people for some of these roles, that's crazy. That's

00:54:54.739 --> 00:54:59.300
crazy to me. There's a lot of bright minds out there, a lot of good people. And we really

00:54:59.300 --> 00:55:00.300
Boyer.

00:55:00.300 --> 00:55:04.179
We really need to stand up for the citizens of Freeport, and I think this sets a bad precedence

00:55:04.179 --> 00:55:07.059
for that.

00:55:07.059 --> 00:55:11.639
This was one of the suggestions that have been a part of the Illinois Municipal League

00:55:11.639 --> 00:55:17.840
for a couple of years now, because it so narrows your pool of qualified applicants.

00:55:17.840 --> 00:55:22.119
That's simply what this is, so Manager Boyer, did you want to add to that?

00:55:22.119 --> 00:55:26.800
You know, there's so much to unpack there, it's very, it's hard to get my hands around

00:55:26.800 --> 00:55:27.800
it.

00:55:27.800 --> 00:55:34.039
to say to you Alderman Monroe is you brought up a couple of individuals yet we're not talking

00:55:34.039 --> 00:55:40.239
about the fact that we've got them on call, they come back whenever they need to, they're

00:55:40.239 --> 00:55:46.000
on call 24-7 in some cases, we've got situations where we've got outlying communities where

00:55:46.000 --> 00:55:50.260
a lot of folks live, they get promoted and then all of a sudden now they're outside city

00:55:50.260 --> 00:55:55.019
limits and all this does is create management flexibility and allows us a broader pool of

00:55:55.019 --> 00:55:56.019
Miller.

00:55:56.019 --> 00:55:59.019
We're going to try to get people, qualified individuals to apply for certain jobs within

00:55:59.019 --> 00:56:00.340
the City of Freeport.

00:56:00.340 --> 00:56:01.340
That's all this does.

00:56:01.340 --> 00:56:02.340
Okay.

00:56:02.340 --> 00:56:05.860
So, you know, if we're going to talk about, you know, how much wear and tear on a vehicle,

00:56:05.860 --> 00:56:11.179
I'd like to tell you one good decision can outweigh any wear and tear on a specific vehicle

00:56:11.179 --> 00:56:14.980
that you might have driving back and forth to a community nearby.

00:56:14.980 --> 00:56:18.500
So all I'm going to say to you is what you want is the best people.

00:56:18.500 --> 00:56:23.179
We always look at our internal hires as people who live within city limits, but we do not

00:56:23.179 --> 00:56:24.179
Kessler.

00:56:24.179 --> 00:56:27.260
There's just not enough applicants from the City of Freeport.

00:56:27.260 --> 00:56:32.199
There's just not enough.

00:56:32.199 --> 00:56:36.720
Just a reminder, Alderman Sanders and Alderman Sessler, you've already both spoken twice.

00:56:36.720 --> 00:56:37.720
No.

00:56:37.720 --> 00:56:38.720
No.

00:56:38.720 --> 00:56:39.720
Yes, sir, you have.

00:56:39.720 --> 00:56:40.720
I only spoke once.

00:56:40.720 --> 00:56:41.720
You spoke twice, and I would appreciate that you stay in order.

00:56:41.720 --> 00:56:42.720
No.

00:56:42.720 --> 00:56:43.720
Don't do that again, Mayor.

00:56:43.720 --> 00:56:44.720
Don't do that again.

00:56:44.720 --> 00:56:48.420
And I'm going to call that out of order, so please refrain from speaking like that.

00:56:48.420 --> 00:56:49.420
You are out of order.

00:56:49.420 --> 00:56:50.679
Who's holding the tally sheet?

00:56:50.679 --> 00:56:53.360
I just, I'm warning you the last time.

00:56:53.360 --> 00:56:55.360
Bates, and Carl, and I'll say a couple of things.

00:56:56.420 --> 00:56:59.800
We don't want to be out of order.

00:57:00.059 --> 00:57:02.059
Alderman Klemm, did you have your hand up?

00:57:05.079 --> 00:57:07.079
The only thing I was going to ask, if that's the absolute

00:57:07.880 --> 00:57:09.880
truth, that we've got guys using city vehicles driving out of

00:57:10.460 --> 00:57:12.460
town in those positions? That's what I was going to ask.

00:57:15.980 --> 00:57:17.980
We have the fire marshal drives her vehicle because she's on

00:57:17.980 --> 00:57:19.980
call 24 hours a day. Okay.

00:57:21.880 --> 00:57:23.880
Alderman Sellers. I would just like to know how

00:57:24.739 --> 00:57:26.940
Jobs.

00:57:26.940 --> 00:57:28.980
I wish I could give you a straight answer on that,

00:57:28.980 --> 00:57:31.059
because I don't know some of them.

00:57:31.059 --> 00:57:35.179
I will tell you that Chief of Police, Fire Chief, obviously

00:57:35.179 --> 00:57:38.619
the Fire Chief has an apartment here in town.

00:57:38.619 --> 00:57:42.420
The Police Chief, that was part of his hiring,

00:57:42.420 --> 00:57:44.860
what was discussed when he was hired.

00:57:44.860 --> 00:57:47.619
Deputy Chief of Police, I don't know.

00:57:47.619 --> 00:57:51.340
I'm guessing it's one of those was promoted into that position

00:57:51.340 --> 00:57:53.099
over a period of time.

00:57:53.099 --> 00:58:23.099
for the police department and the sergeants for the police department and these are listed here but as I understand chief these aren't these aren't required to be residents anyway it's just a radius yeah a radius so all we're asking for here is let's just move forward in any way that's productive for the city which is going to allow us to have appropriate level of candidates for our empty positions and not punish the folks that have been doing a good job for the city for many years there's no real reason to have this anymore and

00:58:23.099 --> 00:58:27.300
it's it's my recommendation we move forward and remove it. Deputy Chief

00:58:27.300 --> 00:58:34.820
Segal did you want to add to that? Sure. I kind of wanted to park on the sideline of

00:58:34.820 --> 00:58:40.599
this but I decided that I would speak up for the people that work I work with in

00:58:40.599 --> 00:58:48.220
my department. I've been a resident of this city for 38 years. I make my home

00:58:48.220 --> 00:58:55.059
here and that's my choice. Every fireman starts out at the bottom rung not at the

00:58:55.059 --> 00:59:00.260
top and they make their way through the fire department. Throughout their career

00:59:00.260 --> 00:59:06.699
contracts are established that establish the radius under which people can live.

00:59:06.699 --> 00:59:12.619
To piggyback on Chief Shenberger throughout our career the radius has

00:59:12.619 --> 00:59:25.079
has extended three times throughout the 27 years that I've been with this fire department.

00:59:25.079 --> 00:59:32.599
As far as that radius is a circle, it extends up into right before Monroe.

00:59:32.599 --> 00:59:37.059
It doesn't make Monroe, it's right before Monroe, Wisconsin.

00:59:37.059 --> 00:59:39.500
So it takes them over the line.

00:59:39.500 --> 00:59:45.000
These are individuals that while they were blue shirts, determined that under the contract

00:59:45.000 --> 00:59:49.179
that allowed them to live a 20-mile radius, they built brand new homes.

00:59:49.179 --> 00:59:55.559
We built brand new homes, it's their home, just like my home is my home.

00:59:55.559 --> 01:00:00.039
I think that home ownership is one of the most fundamental and precious things that

01:00:00.039 --> 01:00:02.079
each of us have.

01:00:02.079 --> 01:00:05.579
It doesn't matter where we work, so that's that part.

01:00:05.579 --> 01:00:10.599
As far as compensation, I understand that, you know, it's a touchy topic for people to

01:00:10.599 --> 01:00:13.840
talk about compensation.

01:00:13.840 --> 01:00:19.159
But my people and myself, we work hard for our money.

01:00:19.159 --> 01:00:24.440
You know, tonight I'll end up speaking about 13 hours worth of work that happened two weeks

01:00:24.440 --> 01:00:25.440
ago.

01:00:25.440 --> 01:00:26.559
It's hard work.

01:00:26.559 --> 01:00:27.559
People can get hurt.

01:00:27.559 --> 01:00:29.900
People could get killed.

01:00:29.900 --> 01:00:31.880
But we're compensated for our work.

01:00:31.880 --> 01:00:37.519
That's part of our contractual arrangement, just like everyone else gets paid.

01:00:37.519 --> 01:00:46.199
And once you are compensated for the work that you do, that money is each of ours to spend

01:00:46.199 --> 01:00:49.079
how we choose.

01:00:49.079 --> 01:00:55.639
Meaning if we want to go to Rockford and have dinner, we buy dinner in Rockford.

01:00:55.639 --> 01:00:57.760
They get the benefit of that.

01:00:57.760 --> 01:00:59.760
Doesn't mean we don't spend money in this community.

01:00:59.760 --> 01:01:05.639
I mean it would be presumptuous to say that no one ever buys anything on their way home

01:01:05.639 --> 01:01:08.159
or gets gas.

01:01:08.159 --> 01:01:11.840
If we decide to go to the Dells, that money doesn't,

01:01:11.840 --> 01:01:13.599
that goes to there.

01:01:13.599 --> 01:01:17.400
These are decisions that individuals make

01:01:17.400 --> 01:01:21.239
on their own determination based upon the money

01:01:21.239 --> 01:01:22.739
that they earn.

01:01:23.760 --> 01:01:26.039
I don't know if it's right or wrong

01:01:26.039 --> 01:01:27.840
or what the broadness is of that,

01:01:27.840 --> 01:01:31.059
but I do know what the fairness of that is.

01:01:31.059 --> 01:01:33.519
There's no one in our department

01:01:33.519 --> 01:01:38.519
that works underneath of me that is not compliant

01:01:39.039 --> 01:01:44.039
with the residency requirements as they stood before

01:01:44.840 --> 01:01:46.760
and as they stand now.

01:01:47.760 --> 01:01:50.400
As far, the last thing I'd like to speak to

01:01:50.400 --> 01:01:52.059
is our fire marshal.

01:01:52.059 --> 01:01:56.360
She does take a emergency response vehicle home.

01:01:56.360 --> 01:02:00.619
Her and I are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

01:02:00.619 --> 01:02:04.739
we go to every fire, we're the last people there

01:02:04.739 --> 01:02:08.239
after everybody's gone home, we're there in the dark,

01:02:08.239 --> 01:02:10.079
we're sloshing around through the water

01:02:10.079 --> 01:02:12.900
that's filled the basement and everything,

01:02:12.900 --> 01:02:15.139
we are the last people.

01:02:16.400 --> 01:02:18.260
In the course of her duties

01:02:18.260 --> 01:02:22.340
beyond just being the fire marshal for our city,

01:02:22.340 --> 01:02:25.420
she is a trained arson investigator

01:02:25.420 --> 01:02:27.960
that is certified by this state

01:02:27.960 --> 01:02:31.440
and throughout our county, other chiefs

01:02:31.440 --> 01:02:36.079
and other towns call her to investigate their fires,

01:02:36.079 --> 01:02:38.400
to begin those investigations.

01:02:38.400 --> 01:02:42.059
She works side by side with state fire marshal's office.

01:02:42.940 --> 01:02:47.940
So in many ways, we're never not working.

01:02:48.119 --> 01:02:50.699
Number one, even if we're at home.

01:02:50.699 --> 01:02:54.940
And the other part is I've never known Hillary

01:02:54.940 --> 01:02:57.960
to not respond to a fire, to not be here

01:02:57.960 --> 01:03:00.500
within 10 or 15 minutes.

01:03:00.500 --> 01:03:04.239
You know, it is the prerogative of this council

01:03:04.239 --> 01:03:07.480
to direct the chief if they would like her

01:03:07.480 --> 01:03:10.019
to not have a vehicle home.

01:03:10.019 --> 01:03:15.019
I have a vehicle when necessary, I take it home,

01:03:17.280 --> 01:03:19.900
but most of the time I leave it at the station.

01:03:19.900 --> 01:03:27.059
So, I don't know what the residency requirement is.

01:03:27.059 --> 01:03:31.280
I believe that strongly that is your decision to arrive at.

01:03:31.280 --> 01:03:38.079
But I do believe on behalf of the members that work underneath of me, they all give

01:03:38.079 --> 01:03:48.340
you fine service and I wouldn't make the leap that because they don't live here, that they're

01:03:48.340 --> 01:03:53.699
They're not here and they're not making a difference and that they don't care.

01:03:53.699 --> 01:03:59.780
We go, whether it rains, whether it's snowing, whether it's 20 below, we don't care if you're

01:03:59.780 --> 01:04:02.260
green and eight feet tall.

01:04:02.260 --> 01:04:09.099
If you call, we come and we deliver to you the best service that we can, dependent on

01:04:09.099 --> 01:04:11.960
whatever the emergency is.

01:04:11.960 --> 01:04:18.720
So I just wanted to stand up for the men and the women that work in our department.

01:04:18.720 --> 01:04:21.279
I think they do fantastic work.

01:04:21.279 --> 01:04:23.599
Again, I respect the council.

01:04:23.599 --> 01:04:32.599
I respect all of your decisions, but I want you to know that these people are living where

01:04:32.599 --> 01:04:39.760
they live and they're working for this city under the rules as they've been established.

01:04:39.760 --> 01:04:41.400
And I thank you for hearing me.

01:04:41.400 --> 01:04:47.000
thank you thank you chief okay so Alderman Sanders you've had your hand up

01:04:47.000 --> 01:04:49.360
for a little bit but I just want to remind you of what the ordinance is and

01:04:49.360 --> 01:04:53.079
I'm happy to allow you to speak a third time but it's according to the ordinance

01:04:53.079 --> 01:04:57.480
so it would have to be by a unanimous pass of the entire council in order for

01:04:57.480 --> 01:05:02.599
you to do that okay so would you like me to ask the council that well yes yes

01:05:02.599 --> 01:05:09.199
okay so madam clerk can you take the role on allowing Alderman Sanders to

01:05:09.199 --> 01:05:10.400
speaking a third time.

01:05:10.400 --> 01:05:11.400
Stacy?

01:05:11.400 --> 01:05:12.400
Yes.

01:05:12.400 --> 01:05:13.400
Shadle?

01:05:13.400 --> 01:05:14.400
No.

01:05:14.400 --> 01:05:15.400
Sanders?

01:05:15.400 --> 01:05:16.400
Yes.

01:05:16.400 --> 01:05:17.400
Sellers?

01:05:17.400 --> 01:05:18.400
No.

01:05:18.400 --> 01:05:19.400
Klemm?

01:05:19.400 --> 01:05:20.400
No.

01:05:20.400 --> 01:05:21.400
Monroe?

01:05:21.400 --> 01:05:22.400
Yeah.

01:05:22.400 --> 01:05:23.400
Simmons?

01:05:23.400 --> 01:05:24.400
I just love how we selectively enforce ordinances.

01:05:24.400 --> 01:05:25.400
Yes.

01:05:25.400 --> 01:05:26.400
Let that man talk.

01:05:26.400 --> 01:05:27.400
Parker?

01:05:27.400 --> 01:05:28.400
No.

01:05:28.400 --> 01:05:32.400
We are tied four to four.

01:05:32.400 --> 01:05:33.400
Attorney, is this a simple majority?

01:05:33.400 --> 01:05:36.400
It needs to be a unanimous vote for our ordinance.

01:05:36.400 --> 01:05:37.400
Oh.

01:05:37.400 --> 01:05:38.400
We are way past unanimous.

01:05:38.400 --> 01:06:08.400
I'm sorry Alderman Sanders, you're not allowed to speak a third time. Yeah. Alderman Parker, I don't think you've had a chance to speak yet. I'm just saying we've talked this forever. I make a motion to go call the question. Well, there isn't a question. This is just first reading. So okay. That's all right. Alderman Monroe, did you have your hand up? I did, Madam Mayor. You know, and I guess my question really comes back to everybody gets real hurt when you when you hold people accountable.

01:06:08.400 --> 01:06:09.400
Miller.

01:06:09.400 --> 01:06:10.760
The rules have changed.

01:06:10.760 --> 01:06:16.920
The state of Illinois requires that Illinois employees live in the state of Illinois.

01:06:16.920 --> 01:06:23.880
But yet, Freeport Fire Department, you can live in Wisconsin, we're good.

01:06:23.880 --> 01:06:30.639
And that spending of the cash in our community, every one of us goes to Walmart, we go to

01:06:30.639 --> 01:06:33.840
Cubs, we go to Sullivan's on a regular basis.

01:06:33.840 --> 01:06:38.199
We're paying our taxes to maintain our community.

01:06:38.199 --> 01:06:44.039
Nobody questions giving and what you do every day in and day out, but you didn't follow

01:06:44.039 --> 01:06:45.760
the ordinance.

01:06:45.760 --> 01:06:46.760
That's the problem.

01:06:46.760 --> 01:06:47.760
That's what I'm talking about.

01:06:47.760 --> 01:06:48.760
Yeah.

01:06:48.760 --> 01:06:51.639
You can shake your head no, you're wrong.

01:06:51.639 --> 01:06:58.400
The ordinance is very clear and that doesn't say, oh, we're going to allow you to stay.

01:06:58.400 --> 01:07:04.099
You were 16 miles, 20 miles, 30, whatever it was before the ordinance.

01:07:04.099 --> 01:07:11.699
If you read the ordinance, it says, you live in the city limits of Freeport. Period. Just

01:07:11.699 --> 01:07:17.500
like you're holding him accountable. But yet, you can't hold other people accountable.

01:07:17.500 --> 01:07:24.980
And you ran against a man who you said was an outsider. And you said, he's not fit to

01:07:24.980 --> 01:07:25.980
lead Freeport.

01:07:25.980 --> 01:07:28.739
Well, first of all, I never said that and you're getting way off track.

01:07:28.739 --> 01:07:33.220
No, no, I'm not. That's exactly what, would you like me to pull up the stuff? I've got

01:07:33.220 --> 01:07:34.220
Knapp.

01:07:34.220 --> 01:07:35.220
I've got screenshots.

01:07:35.220 --> 01:07:36.220
I can't help.

01:07:36.220 --> 01:07:38.820
I got the receipt, Mayor, so sit there.

01:07:38.820 --> 01:07:45.449
And here's the situation, and she's cutting me off, and I'm getting a little bit heated

01:07:45.449 --> 01:07:55.489
because the problem is this, you can apply the rules in an onerous manner to people that

01:07:55.489 --> 01:08:03.369
you don't want to have your way, but yet when somebody else says, look, they call BS, you're

01:08:03.369 --> 01:08:04.369
Fowler.

01:08:04.369 --> 01:08:05.369
They're like, no, it's okay.

01:08:05.369 --> 01:08:06.849
It's kind of gray area.

01:08:06.849 --> 01:08:09.170
City manager can do what he wants.

01:08:09.170 --> 01:08:10.170
That's been a problem.

01:08:10.170 --> 01:08:15.369
That's where you and I got off the rails.

01:08:15.369 --> 01:08:21.890
In my time of living in Freeport, have had fire trucks roll up to my house because, oh,

01:08:21.890 --> 01:08:28.850
I had a few leaves and a fire and, oh, you could be ticketed for that, held to the standard

01:08:28.850 --> 01:08:32.979
of the ordinance.

01:08:32.979 --> 01:08:40.220
and all I'm saying is that we have not done the same for the city employees.

01:08:40.220 --> 01:08:42.319
Director Duckman is one of them.

01:08:42.319 --> 01:08:43.659
You know, we...

01:08:43.659 --> 01:08:44.659
That's wrong.

01:08:44.659 --> 01:08:45.659
I live here.

01:08:45.659 --> 01:08:46.659
Yeah.

01:08:46.659 --> 01:08:47.659
You're wrong.

01:08:47.659 --> 01:08:49.140
So, I just want to, you want to call everybody else.

01:08:49.140 --> 01:08:50.140
You're wrong.

01:08:50.140 --> 01:08:51.140
You're wrong, sir.

01:08:51.140 --> 01:08:52.140
Here's the deal.

01:08:52.140 --> 01:08:53.140
He's out of order.

01:08:53.140 --> 01:08:56.020
He is out of order, but it's okay because he's her buddy.

01:08:56.020 --> 01:09:05.979
So my situation is this, you need to follow the rules for everybody equally, but you don't

01:09:05.979 --> 01:09:12.960
and that's because you get a benefit from them for not following the rules.

01:09:12.960 --> 01:09:15.819
That's where the problems underlie.

01:09:15.819 --> 01:09:21.199
And I can give you further examples, if you would like, of certain individuals in this

01:09:21.199 --> 01:09:25.279
community who haven't followed the ordinances and they get away with it.

01:09:25.279 --> 01:09:34.859
Meanwhile, every taxpaying person sitting in this room is held to a standard that no

01:09:34.859 --> 01:09:39.600
other person sitting around this U-shaped table, except for a couple of aldermen, are

01:09:39.600 --> 01:09:41.260
held to the same standard.

01:09:41.260 --> 01:09:43.739
And that is not right.

01:09:43.739 --> 01:09:46.319
That's not what America's founding principles were about.

01:09:46.319 --> 01:09:48.020
It was equal justice under the law.

01:09:48.020 --> 01:09:51.520
It was equal justice under the law, and we don't have that in this city.

01:09:51.520 --> 01:09:54.800
And that is the problem with how you manage the city.

01:09:54.800 --> 01:09:57.239
Congratulations on your re-election.

01:09:57.239 --> 01:10:00.560
But unfortunately for Freeport, that's going to be a bad thing.

01:10:00.560 --> 01:10:06.520
Well, I'd just like to say that that's inappropriate as well.

01:10:06.520 --> 01:10:11.460
Held to the standard, I'll just remind this council that it was this council that approved

01:10:11.460 --> 01:10:14.279
Chief Shenberger, because I know that's where you're pointing the fingers at.

01:10:14.279 --> 01:10:19.539
Boyer said he does not live within the city limits and you tied his hands to not allow

01:10:19.539 --> 01:10:23.300
him to go out with a further search and he said then that's where his appointment will

01:10:23.300 --> 01:10:28.800
go and you all said that was fine. It was this council. So just to make sure that you

01:10:28.800 --> 01:10:34.680
realize that you were a part of that. I think Alderman Shadle, you are probably the only

01:10:34.680 --> 01:10:37.520
one that hasn't spoke yet.

01:10:37.520 --> 01:10:44.680
Thank you. So I guess in my opinion it comes down to how do we fix this? If it's broke,

01:10:44.680 --> 01:10:55.760
how do we fix it? We pass this. This is the fix. If you're saying that people don't live

01:10:55.760 --> 01:11:02.000
in and the ordinance says they're supposed to, then let's fix it.

01:11:02.000 --> 01:11:04.920
Madam Clerk, did you have an add on?

01:11:04.920 --> 01:11:08.640
I just haven't heard a concept all tied together.

01:11:08.640 --> 01:11:12.960
It kind of piggybacks on Alderman Shadle's fix it.

01:11:12.960 --> 01:11:17.520
It kind of piggybacks on the mayor saying this seated council

01:11:17.520 --> 01:11:21.800
tasked or approved to hire from within.

01:11:21.800 --> 01:11:25.760
But whoever can answer, all three of our unions

01:11:25.760 --> 01:11:28.439
have removed the residency requirement, correct?

01:11:28.439 --> 01:11:31.899
Am I wrong on that?

01:11:31.899 --> 01:11:36.619
So fire and police have removed the residency requirement.

01:11:36.619 --> 01:11:44.819
I believe by removing the residency requirement is forward thinking. We already have an issue.

01:11:44.819 --> 01:11:55.119
We have. We can agree on that. But I'm trying to tie some points together, sir, because

01:11:55.119 --> 01:12:00.420
I have been here for the eight years. I haven't gone through 30 years, but I have seen two

01:12:00.420 --> 01:12:01.220
and

01:12:01.220 --> 01:12:02.460
the

01:12:02.460 --> 01:12:04.859
two different residency requirements.

01:12:04.859 --> 01:12:06.180
I have given

01:12:06.180 --> 01:12:07.479
Madam Clerk

01:12:07.479 --> 01:12:10.899
the floor. Please be respectful of that.

01:12:10.899 --> 01:12:15.140
So I have seen the changes over the last eight years.

01:12:15.140 --> 01:12:16.500
I also

01:12:16.500 --> 01:12:20.460
am aware that it's difficult. We don't get the number of applicants for

01:12:20.460 --> 01:12:22.619
police officers like we used to.

01:12:22.619 --> 01:12:25.819
We don't get the number of applicants for fire fighters

01:12:25.819 --> 01:12:28.180
like we used to. We have

01:12:28.180 --> 01:12:30.060
trouble attracting

01:12:30.060 --> 01:12:31.060
Miller.

01:12:31.060 --> 01:12:35.659
We have removed the residency requirements for that.

01:12:35.659 --> 01:12:40.699
I'm just going to propose if we don't change it, we're going to compound this issue and

01:12:40.699 --> 01:12:45.060
we're going to keep running up against this because we're going to be hiring people that

01:12:45.060 --> 01:12:48.779
don't have the residency requirements.

01:12:48.779 --> 01:12:56.220
And then as Mayor Miller said, we were directed to hire from within the police department,

01:12:56.220 --> 01:13:00.539
but you're going to have people who don't live in city limits and that's just going

01:13:00.539 --> 01:13:04.659
to compound itself if something isn't changed.

01:13:04.659 --> 01:13:06.380
Thank you.

01:13:06.380 --> 01:13:07.380
You're welcome.

01:13:07.380 --> 01:13:11.460
So Alderman Sanders, again, you were voted down on your third talk.

01:13:11.460 --> 01:13:15.800
So Alderman Parker, Alderman, you're out of order.

01:13:15.800 --> 01:13:17.539
I've warned you once.

01:13:17.539 --> 01:13:19.699
Let's stop.

01:13:19.699 --> 01:13:22.699
Alderman Simmons, Alderman Parker, Alderman Shadle, you have the ability to speak more

01:13:22.699 --> 01:13:27.979
Moore, if you'd like, otherwise this discussion will move on to the next regular city council

01:13:27.979 --> 01:13:31.159
meeting.

01:13:31.159 --> 01:13:32.159
Okay.

01:13:32.159 --> 01:13:33.520
Then we'll move on.

01:13:33.520 --> 01:13:37.000
Item number 11 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-19.

01:13:37.000 --> 01:13:40.649
Could you please read this?

01:13:40.649 --> 01:13:44.289
Ordinance amending various parts of City of Freeport Code of Ordinances regarding the

01:13:44.289 --> 01:13:47.329
regulation of wells and septic systems.

01:13:47.329 --> 01:13:48.329
Thank you.

01:13:48.329 --> 01:13:50.899
Darren?

01:13:50.899 --> 01:13:51.899
Yes.

01:13:51.899 --> 01:13:55.539
This is the same topic that we discussed at DeKalb.

01:13:55.539 --> 01:14:07.859
We would like to pass this ordinance to restrict wells and septics within the city.

01:14:07.859 --> 01:14:14.220
This would still allow the city to have an exception if in fact we couldn't serve somebody.

01:14:14.220 --> 01:14:19.819
But for the most part, there's only two areas of Freeport that we currently don't have systems

01:14:19.819 --> 01:14:23.840
to that we really would struggle to serve at this time, which is the westward expansion

01:14:23.840 --> 01:14:28.079
and also Woodside with the wooded area back there.

01:14:28.079 --> 01:14:30.319
Those are the two areas that we would struggle to service

01:14:30.319 --> 01:14:32.479
without some major investments.

01:14:32.479 --> 01:14:36.520
But this is really to protect our water supply.

01:14:36.520 --> 01:14:41.079
As everybody knows, we're spending probably close

01:14:41.079 --> 01:14:44.680
to $30 million here soon on our wells and well systems.

01:14:44.680 --> 01:14:47.199
We have some good drinking water.

01:14:47.199 --> 01:14:50.439
Freeport's systems are top notch.

01:14:50.439 --> 01:14:55.439
and we don't want people to have wells within the city limits.

01:14:55.960 --> 01:14:59.640
We're a developed community, EPA is backing this 100%.

01:14:59.640 --> 01:15:02.159
The county also backs this as well.

01:15:02.159 --> 01:15:04.319
Outside of our city limit territory,

01:15:04.319 --> 01:15:06.939
they have a blocked zone within a thousand feet

01:15:06.939 --> 01:15:09.800
of our borders that people have to connect to the city.

01:15:09.800 --> 01:15:11.720
This is so people can't just pick up

01:15:11.720 --> 01:15:13.279
and move right outside the city limits

01:15:13.279 --> 01:15:15.079
and draw a bunch of water from the aquifer

01:15:15.079 --> 01:15:16.439
that most of the residents.

01:15:16.439 --> 01:15:18.800
So it's really in a protection.

01:15:18.800 --> 01:15:24.960
if you want to know how we view it the city residents own our system right we're user based

01:15:24.960 --> 01:15:30.720
so we all own this together so this is for protection standards with that we kind of

01:15:30.720 --> 01:15:36.960
reviewed the rest of it at the last meeting this is suggested by EPA and IDPH which is the Illinois

01:15:36.960 --> 01:15:44.399
Department of Public Health we also already have codes and ordinances within our general codified

01:15:44.399 --> 01:15:49.239
Structure that backs all this up. This is just a much clearer ordinance for people

01:15:49.239 --> 01:15:55.159
that are looking to move here. We've had a few issues lately with people that said

01:15:55.159 --> 01:15:58.680
they couldn't find it or they couldn't see it and and so we're just trying to

01:15:58.680 --> 01:16:05.119
tie this up in a bow and with that I will take any questions. Well actually I

01:16:05.119 --> 01:16:10.880
need a motion to move this forward. So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman

01:16:10.880 --> 01:16:22.510
Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion. Alderman Sanders. Director, Darren, when we're

01:16:22.510 --> 01:16:35.840
talking about the whales and the septics, the possibilities of having documentation

01:16:35.840 --> 01:16:40.840
and this demonstrating that these things are in compliance

01:16:41.020 --> 01:16:43.340
with what your studies are.

01:16:43.340 --> 01:16:48.340
When we talking about installing water wells

01:16:48.539 --> 01:16:51.899
and understanding the contamination

01:16:51.899 --> 01:16:53.859
of the septic tanks in conjunction

01:16:53.859 --> 01:16:55.619
or they're adjacent to one another

01:16:55.619 --> 01:16:58.500
or parallel to one another or anything like that.

01:16:58.500 --> 01:17:01.699
But what we don't see is documentation

01:17:01.699 --> 01:17:05.159
demonstrating to council that all of these areas

01:17:05.159 --> 01:17:11.640
have been explored that we can rest assured to the citizens of Freeport that we have

01:17:11.640 --> 01:17:19.960
done our due diligence in regards to the EPA requirements and any other requirements.

01:17:19.960 --> 01:17:25.579
And so what we're doing is taking your word at face value here right now at this moment.

01:17:25.579 --> 01:17:32.760
But if we can see a drafting of you guys' exploration of everything so we can also look

01:17:32.760 --> 01:17:33.760
Miller.

01:17:33.760 --> 01:17:37.439
We want to look at what you have evaluated so we can have a clear conscience that it

01:17:37.439 --> 01:17:40.439
was evaluated.

01:17:40.439 --> 01:17:46.520
Alderman Sanders, it's already a fact that no one can drill a well or a septic in the

01:17:46.520 --> 01:17:47.520
city of Freeport.

01:17:47.520 --> 01:17:49.359
That's already in our ordinance structure.

01:17:49.359 --> 01:17:51.439
This is just clarifying it for everyone.

01:17:51.439 --> 01:17:53.520
We've had some issues recently.

01:17:53.520 --> 01:17:58.159
One was with the school district trying to drill 50 geo wells into our drinking water

01:17:58.159 --> 01:17:59.159
supply.

01:17:59.159 --> 01:18:00.159
That was one issue.

01:18:00.159 --> 01:18:02.960
they didn't recognize the code and their architect didn't look at it.

01:18:03.199 --> 01:18:06.159
We had another builder right outside the edge of Freeport

01:18:06.159 --> 01:18:09.159
that tried to drill a well in a septic right on the city

01:18:10.159 --> 01:18:11.539
corporate limit line.

01:18:11.539 --> 01:18:13.699
So we need to clean this up.

01:18:13.699 --> 01:18:16.600
This is supported by EPA and IDPH.

01:18:16.640 --> 01:18:18.399
Anybody can Google that and look at it.

01:18:18.399 --> 01:18:20.600
It's called the Source Water Protection Act.

01:18:20.600 --> 01:18:23.779
We're required to enact this as a municipality,

01:18:23.779 --> 01:18:27.579
just like every other municipality is source water.

01:18:27.579 --> 01:18:29.979
If anybody does the research is a huge thing.

01:18:29.979 --> 01:18:34.340
and it also includes stormwater as part of this as well because stormwater goes to drinking

01:18:34.340 --> 01:18:35.579
water eventually, right?

01:18:35.579 --> 01:18:37.699
So this is a big blanket portfolio.

01:18:37.699 --> 01:18:42.619
This is just really cleaning up our ordinances so people that are moving here or building

01:18:42.619 --> 01:18:47.300
here or want to do something here can entertain the code and ordinance on the source water

01:18:47.300 --> 01:18:48.619
protection better.

01:18:48.619 --> 01:18:53.979
Again, our well water is coming from about 200 to 1300 feet below the surface.

01:18:53.979 --> 01:18:54.979
Exactly.

01:18:54.979 --> 01:18:56.460
We want to protect that water source.

01:18:56.460 --> 01:18:57.819
That's the lifeblood of Freeport.

01:18:57.819 --> 01:19:10.140
No water. Our user rates will continue to skyrocket as we have to put treatment facilities in. That's that's the basis. Pass it. Don't pass it. This is what's best for every resident in the city of Freeport.

01:19:10.140 --> 01:19:26.539
Well, here's here's the thing. It's not about pass it or don't pass it. What we're trying to do is get give the confidence of the people of the city of Freeport that is that these tasks are being evaluated and taken care of without the without any kind of

01:19:26.539 --> 01:19:37.539
We don't have documentation that demonstrates the fact that these tasks are actually been taken through and processed. We don't have anything tangible as counsel.

01:19:37.539 --> 01:19:38.539
We went over this.

01:19:38.539 --> 01:19:45.539
I know we went over it, but we still don't have any documentations of anything that you are supposed to demonstrate to us.

01:19:45.539 --> 01:19:49.000
to demonstrate to us that these things are in place,

01:19:49.560 --> 01:19:54.560
we have done our construction of looking into these matters

01:19:57.680 --> 01:20:00.399
and that we have done everything that we possibly can

01:20:00.399 --> 01:20:04.840
to draft up some kind of concept for the city of Freeport

01:20:04.840 --> 01:20:08.199
that they can build confidence in the work of water

01:20:08.199 --> 01:20:11.359
and especially contaminant and well water.

01:20:11.359 --> 01:20:14.800
We need to be able to get more information

01:20:14.800 --> 01:20:16.239
regardless to all of these.

01:20:16.239 --> 01:20:18.079
And you may have some already.

01:20:18.079 --> 01:20:20.560
You may have this stuff out there on the website,

01:20:20.560 --> 01:20:23.920
but do the people know from the directors and people

01:20:23.920 --> 01:20:29.800
like yourself, from hearing that, listening to you,

01:20:29.800 --> 01:20:33.840
do they know that for sure that your task is all

01:20:33.840 --> 01:20:36.920
about taking care of the citizens of Freeport

01:20:36.920 --> 01:20:38.960
and making sure that they have the confidence

01:20:38.960 --> 01:20:40.279
in what you're doing?

01:20:40.279 --> 01:20:44.399
that's what that's that's that's my one question that's only one question I

01:20:44.399 --> 01:20:47.920
would have never brought it to council if I hadn't done my homework okay well

01:20:47.920 --> 01:20:51.560
that's what my entire body a home but that's what we need to know well I'm not

01:20:51.560 --> 01:20:56.039
going to bring everything with every draft and every memo and every document

01:20:56.039 --> 01:20:59.920
that we reviewed to council that is not the point of this well it's a concern

01:20:59.920 --> 01:21:04.180
with and trust us to do our job well it's the concern of the people well we

01:21:04.180 --> 01:21:08.899
have experienced contamination already don't let me start opening up gates and

01:21:08.899 --> 01:21:14.779
Dors about what we have not done and what we have not presented to the citizens of the

01:21:14.779 --> 01:21:20.500
city of Freeport of things that has not been disclosed and what we should be talking about

01:21:20.500 --> 01:21:27.060
is those things why we're talking about building the confidence of the people here in Freeport.

01:21:27.060 --> 01:21:34.380
Well, the thing about it is if we're not doing a disclosure to everything that concerns our

01:21:34.380 --> 01:21:39.460
Miller, our septics, our storm waters and things of that nature, then the people in

01:21:39.460 --> 01:21:42.699
the city of Freeport is in the dark.

01:21:42.699 --> 01:21:45.579
We're in the dark about what you're doing, what your task is.

01:21:45.579 --> 01:21:46.579
That's ridiculous.

01:21:46.579 --> 01:21:47.579
Yeah, well, it is.

01:21:47.579 --> 01:21:48.579
It is.

01:21:48.579 --> 01:21:49.579
Okay, okay.

01:21:49.579 --> 01:21:50.579
Let's stop.

01:21:50.579 --> 01:21:51.579
I'm talking.

01:21:51.579 --> 01:21:52.579
Stop.

01:21:52.579 --> 01:21:53.579
Out of order.

01:21:53.579 --> 01:21:54.579
You are out of order.

01:21:54.579 --> 01:21:55.579
Who is?

01:21:55.579 --> 01:21:56.579
You are.

01:21:56.579 --> 01:21:57.579
He's out of order.

01:21:57.579 --> 01:21:58.579
It's time to be done with this conversation.

01:21:58.579 --> 01:22:00.020
Let's stop this back and forth.

01:22:00.020 --> 01:22:01.020
This is a day-to-day task.

01:22:01.020 --> 01:22:10.479
Kass. She's the chair of this meeting. She maintains decorum in this meeting. I think

01:22:10.479 --> 01:22:13.739
she's telling both of you guys this is not a back and forth between staff. That's right.

01:22:13.739 --> 01:22:19.020
I'm talking. I'm the one that's talking. You no longer have the floor, Alderman Sanders.

01:22:19.020 --> 01:22:25.899
Please be respectful of that. Our department heads are the professional day-to-day operators

01:22:25.899 --> 01:22:30.899
and they come under the direction of the city manager. That's his job. Your job as a

01:22:30.899 --> 01:22:32.899
and

01:22:34.899 --> 01:22:36.899
John.

01:22:38.399 --> 01:22:40.399
And the last thing I want to say is that the

01:22:41.520 --> 01:22:43.520
last thing I want to say is that the last thing I want to say is

01:22:44.619 --> 01:22:46.619
to direct policy, not day to day.

01:22:47.739 --> 01:22:49.739
And that's what I'm trying to do.

01:22:50.859 --> 01:22:52.859
So. Is there any other discussion concerning the wells

01:22:53.979 --> 01:22:55.979
and septic? Alderman Clem.

01:22:57.180 --> 01:22:59.180
Is there a request or a motion to suspend the rules?

01:22:59.180 --> 01:23:00.180
Miller.

01:23:00.180 --> 01:23:03.479
This would apply only within the city limits of Freeport.

01:23:03.479 --> 01:23:08.439
This doesn't extend to those homes and the properties just outside the city limits or

01:23:08.439 --> 01:23:09.439
does it?

01:23:09.439 --> 01:23:15.199
So for the city of Freeport, this only applies to our corporate limits, but the county also

01:23:15.199 --> 01:23:19.579
has an ordinance in act that does the first thousand feet on our corporate limits.

01:23:19.579 --> 01:23:24.300
That's their policy, not ours, but that's pretty much what the state is directing them

01:23:24.300 --> 01:23:25.300
to do.

01:23:25.300 --> 01:23:29.699
This ordinance only pertains to the City of Freeport, and it also does not pertain to

01:23:29.699 --> 01:23:32.260
somebody else that has a well already.

01:23:32.260 --> 01:23:33.260
They're grandfathered in.

01:23:33.260 --> 01:23:37.460
It's only, it's only for anybody building a new one.

01:23:37.460 --> 01:23:42.340
And as those go out of commission, then they won't be permitted to come back in if water

01:23:42.340 --> 01:23:43.659
is available to them.

01:23:43.659 --> 01:23:45.020
Okay, fair enough.

01:23:45.020 --> 01:23:46.020
Thank you.

01:23:46.020 --> 01:23:47.020
Yes.

01:23:47.020 --> 01:23:52.350
If there's no further discussion, Alderman Clem?

01:23:52.350 --> 01:23:55.909
Would you request for suspension of rules?

01:23:55.909 --> 01:24:01.949
Yes, this would like to be put forward as quickly as possible to get these ordinance in place concerning our wells and septics

01:24:02.470 --> 01:24:13.510
Was that was that a motion? Are you thinking? Yeah motion. Okay. Was there a second second? Okay, so we have a motion made by Alderman Clem

01:24:14.930 --> 01:24:20.029
Seconded by Alderman Shadle again suspension of the rules is non-debatable must pass by two-thirds majority

01:24:20.470 --> 01:24:29.229
Madam Clerk, could you please take the role on the suspension only? Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye.

01:24:29.229 --> 01:24:40.909
Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? No. Simmons? No. Parker? Aye. The suspension fails. For lack

01:24:40.909 --> 01:24:45.149
of two-thirds vote, the vote is four to four. Okay, so we will move this ordinance on to

01:24:45.149 --> 01:24:49.909
the next council meeting. Move on to item number 12, which is the first reading of ordinance

01:24:49.909 --> 01:24:55.010
2025-20. Could you please read this for the record? Ordinance approving amendment to vehicle

01:24:55.010 --> 01:24:59.149
lease agreement with senior resource center for pretzel city area transit. Thank you.

01:24:59.149 --> 01:25:00.149
Thank you.

01:25:00.149 --> 01:25:01.149
Director Duckman.

01:25:01.149 --> 01:25:02.149
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

01:25:02.149 --> 01:25:08.109
On May 5th of 2022, so it's going on almost three years, city staff submitted an application

01:25:08.109 --> 01:25:12.989
to the Illinois Department of Transportation, and they've requested three vehicles.

01:25:12.989 --> 01:25:15.189
A little background here.

01:25:15.189 --> 01:25:19.470
Back in 2022, I'm sure people remember there was a shortage of vehicles even at the state

01:25:19.470 --> 01:25:27.149
level, so we were putting in an application through the state for buses, specialty vehicles,

01:25:27.149 --> 01:25:32.390
And it's taken this long for these vehicles to get here, or the state notified us that

01:25:32.390 --> 01:25:34.949
three vehicles will be available.

01:25:34.949 --> 01:25:40.029
And just to give a little background on what the vehicles are, we have a 2024 Chrysler

01:25:40.029 --> 01:25:41.029
Pacifica.

01:25:41.029 --> 01:25:43.590
That's a five passenger vehicle, wheelchair accessible.

01:25:43.590 --> 01:25:54.949
We have a 2025 Ford Starcraft, 12 passenger, and a 2025 Ford Starcraft, which is a 14 passenger.

01:25:54.949 --> 01:26:03.909
So what we have here in this ordinance is to agree, to amend our agreement with the Stevenson

01:26:03.909 --> 01:26:09.390
County Senior Resource Center doing business as the, I'm sorry, for the Pretzel City Area

01:26:09.390 --> 01:26:11.310
Transit Program.

01:26:11.310 --> 01:26:16.550
And what this amendment would be is for dollar leases with the Illinois Department of Transportation

01:26:16.550 --> 01:26:18.289
for those three vehicles.

01:26:18.289 --> 01:26:23.789
And staff is recommending suspension of the rules so that we can, it's been a long time

01:26:23.789 --> 01:26:28.430
Coming, and we really would like to get the vehicles out into use.

01:26:28.430 --> 01:26:34.189
Madam Mayor, I'd like to make a motion to move this forward and also to request a suspension

01:26:34.189 --> 01:26:35.189
of the rules.

01:26:35.189 --> 01:26:36.189
Second.

01:26:36.189 --> 01:26:37.189
Is there a second?

01:26:37.189 --> 01:26:38.189
Second.

01:26:38.189 --> 01:26:43.869
We have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers, to move this ordinance

01:26:43.869 --> 01:26:45.949
forward as well as suspension of the rules.

01:26:45.949 --> 01:26:48.670
Again, suspension of the rules is two-thirds majority and non-debatable.

01:26:48.670 --> 01:26:52.470
Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll on the suspension?

01:26:52.470 --> 01:26:54.869
and we have Monroe and Sellers as both.

01:26:54.869 --> 01:26:55.710
Correct.

01:26:55.710 --> 01:26:57.270
First and second on both.

01:26:57.270 --> 01:27:02.869
On the suspension only, Stacy?

01:27:02.869 --> 01:27:03.710
Aye.

01:27:04.590 --> 01:27:05.430
Shadle?

01:27:05.430 --> 01:27:06.250
Aye.

01:27:06.250 --> 01:27:07.090
Sanders?

01:27:07.090 --> 01:27:07.930
Aye.

01:27:07.930 --> 01:27:08.770
Sellers?

01:27:08.770 --> 01:27:09.609
Aye.

01:27:09.609 --> 01:27:10.430
Klemm?

01:27:10.430 --> 01:27:11.270
Aye.

01:27:11.270 --> 01:27:12.109
Monroe?

01:27:12.109 --> 01:27:12.930
Aye.

01:27:12.930 --> 01:27:13.770
Simmons?

01:27:13.770 --> 01:27:14.609
No.

01:27:14.609 --> 01:27:15.430
And Parker?

01:27:15.430 --> 01:27:16.270
Aye.

01:27:16.270 --> 01:27:17.369
The suspension passes seven to one.

01:27:17.369 --> 01:27:18.390
So then before you council,

01:27:18.390 --> 01:27:21.949
is the final reading for ordinance 2025-20,

01:27:21.949 --> 01:27:27.479
is there any further discussion concerning the transit?

01:27:27.479 --> 01:27:30.159
Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:27:31.159 --> 01:27:32.859
Stacy?

01:27:32.859 --> 01:27:33.699
Aye.

01:27:33.699 --> 01:27:34.520
Shadle?

01:27:34.520 --> 01:27:35.359
Aye.

01:27:35.359 --> 01:27:36.180
Sanders?

01:27:36.180 --> 01:27:37.020
Aye.

01:27:37.020 --> 01:27:37.859
Sellers?

01:27:37.859 --> 01:27:38.699
Aye.

01:27:38.699 --> 01:27:39.520
Klemm?

01:27:39.520 --> 01:27:40.359
Aye.

01:27:40.359 --> 01:27:41.199
Monroe?

01:27:41.199 --> 01:27:42.020
Aye.

01:27:42.020 --> 01:27:42.859
Simmons?

01:27:42.859 --> 01:27:43.699
Aye.

01:27:43.699 --> 01:27:44.520
And Parker?

01:27:44.520 --> 01:27:45.359
Aye.

01:27:45.359 --> 01:27:46.199
And the ordinance passes unanimously.

01:27:46.199 --> 01:27:47.960
Item number 13 is the first reading of ordinance 2025-21.

01:27:47.960 --> 01:27:49.359
Could you please read this?

01:27:49.359 --> 01:28:19.359
Varian's application at 1209 South Wallen Avenue submitted by Madonna Renewal Center to seek relief from 1468.25B1 regarding restrictions of one sign per zoning lot and to not exceed 16 square feet in area and relief from 1468.25B3 regarding restriction of height of sign of less than one storey or 15 feet above curb level

01:28:19.359 --> 01:28:21.600
Sorry, oh yeah it is, nevermind, go ahead.

01:28:21.600 --> 01:28:23.039
Yes, thank you Madam Mayor.

01:28:24.000 --> 01:28:27.779
Okay, so on November 20th of 2024,

01:28:27.779 --> 01:28:31.119
we had a application for a variation

01:28:31.119 --> 01:28:34.319
from the Madonna Renewal Center to install a sign.

01:28:34.319 --> 01:28:37.579
And I'm gonna kind of just show you,

01:28:37.579 --> 01:28:39.159
it's a little bit easier to kind of explain

01:28:39.159 --> 01:28:40.600
what we're talking about here.

01:28:40.600 --> 01:28:42.920
I can scroll down, please.

01:28:44.319 --> 01:28:48.059
Kirk, keep going.

01:28:48.059 --> 01:29:00.289
You can go, keep going down.

01:29:00.289 --> 01:29:03.729
Okay, so we can start here on this section.

01:29:05.329 --> 01:29:10.920
Yep, I think, I mean, everybody should know

01:29:10.920 --> 01:29:13.440
where the Madonna Renewal Center is.

01:29:13.440 --> 01:29:15.739
This is a good explanation of essentially

01:29:15.739 --> 01:29:18.340
what the sign would look like.

01:29:18.340 --> 01:29:21.840
As you can see, it may not be explained too well here,

01:29:21.840 --> 01:29:23.640
but in reading through the application,

01:29:23.640 --> 01:29:25.199
you'll see that it's actually,

01:29:25.199 --> 01:29:27.199
the bottom of the sign would be 45 feet,

01:29:27.199 --> 01:29:29.199
and then the top of the sign would be 61 feet.

01:29:29.199 --> 01:29:34.159
it says 60 feet but the sign is a 16 by 13 foot sign so what you're looking at

01:29:34.159 --> 01:29:38.559
there is being proposed is the Madonna renewal sign and that's essentially what

01:29:38.559 --> 01:29:45.760
it would look like and in order to do this they need a

01:29:45.760 --> 01:29:50.159
in order to do this they need a variation because rules the current zoning rules allow for a sign

01:29:50.159 --> 01:29:57.920
it cannot be any taller than 15 feet and also not to exceed the 16 square feet in area so obviously

01:29:58.640 --> 01:30:06.640
this is going to exceed the square footage and also the height of the sign so this was brought

01:30:06.640 --> 01:30:16.560
to the staff in November 20th and on March 6th of 2025 the Zoning Board of Appeals recommended

01:30:16.560 --> 01:30:21.199
approval by a vote of 5-0 with zero abstentions.

01:30:21.199 --> 01:30:27.199
And during that there was no testimony from the public at the zoning hearing.

01:30:27.199 --> 01:30:33.079
And then on March 13th the Planning Commission also recommended approval by a vote of 6-2

01:30:33.079 --> 01:30:42.880
and then 6 yeas, 2 nays and 0 abstentions and the 2 nays was Director Stiegel and then

01:30:42.880 --> 01:30:49.239
also Commissioner Huffines and their concern was about the weathering of the sign, keeping

01:30:49.239 --> 01:30:52.159
the sign repaired in good condition.

01:30:52.159 --> 01:30:59.920
So certainly valid points that were made but in light of that, staff in their own review,

01:30:59.920 --> 01:31:04.680
Their recommendation is in line with both Sonia Board of Appeals and Planning Commission recommends

01:31:04.680 --> 01:31:06.939
approval of this variation.

01:31:06.939 --> 01:31:12.079
Also want to state that we are recommending suspension of the rules.

01:31:12.079 --> 01:31:21.960
This was the petitioners here are really looking forward to getting this sign installed.

01:31:21.960 --> 01:31:24.640
Is there a motion to move this ordinance forward?

01:31:24.640 --> 01:31:26.640
So moved.

01:31:26.640 --> 01:31:27.640
Second.

01:31:27.640 --> 01:31:36.439
We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker. Discussion on the ordinance?

01:31:40.039 --> 01:31:48.279
So that's the sign right there? That is, yes. So does it have to be that big and that high?

01:31:48.279 --> 01:31:54.199
It doesn't have to be. I mean, we had those discussions with them and said, hey, why don't

01:31:54.199 --> 01:32:24.199
We make it smaller. They were really animate and passionate about wanting to have their sign out in the community. And they made a passionate plea to put this forward. So I had discussions with them, our staff had discussions with them. And they said, No, we want to make a petition and we want to move forward with this. So at any point in time, so council understands if you know, we are always as a staff going to talk to petitioners. And

01:32:24.199 --> 01:32:28.439
and you know give our professional opinions but if they want to move forward with a variation

01:32:28.439 --> 01:32:34.800
we're going to grant them that that that's their right to do so so they are passionate

01:32:34.800 --> 01:32:39.859
about the sign being this they want to sign this size.

01:32:39.859 --> 01:32:45.819
Olderman Sanders yeah since they're being passionate about it and they're asking you

01:32:45.819 --> 01:32:50.899
for your expert opinion about it is that what we're looking at because this has nothing

01:32:50.899 --> 01:32:58.159
to do with taxpayers investments things of this nature because a sign that big

01:32:58.159 --> 01:33:06.079
and it's weather-prone can receive some damage to it and that my question would

01:33:06.079 --> 01:33:11.039
be is who's going to be responsible to maintain such a sign if that ever

01:33:11.039 --> 01:33:15.979
occurs? It's theirs and certainly if the signs weathered the city would issue

01:33:15.979 --> 01:33:20.199
violations for it and then they would have to fix it you know but just like

01:33:20.199 --> 01:33:21.199
McEvoy.

01:33:21.199 --> 01:33:42.800
They are asking for a suspension of the rules because they would like to get this sign moving

01:33:42.800 --> 01:33:43.800
forward.

01:33:43.800 --> 01:33:46.359
If that pleases the council.

01:33:46.359 --> 01:33:47.359
So move.

01:33:47.359 --> 01:33:48.359
Second.

01:33:48.359 --> 01:33:52.819
We have a motion to suspend the rules by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

01:33:53.399 --> 01:33:58.199
Again, non-debatable, two-thirds majority. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll on the suspension?

01:33:58.199 --> 01:33:59.199
Stacy?

01:33:59.199 --> 01:34:01.199
I have a say.

01:34:01.199 --> 01:34:01.699
Shadle?

01:34:01.699 --> 01:34:02.199
Aye.

01:34:03.199 --> 01:34:03.699
Sanders?

01:34:03.699 --> 01:34:04.199
Aye.

01:34:04.199 --> 01:34:04.699
Sellers?

01:34:04.699 --> 01:34:05.199
Aye.

01:34:06.199 --> 01:34:06.699
Klemm?

01:34:06.699 --> 01:34:07.199
Aye.

01:34:07.199 --> 01:34:07.699
Monroe?

01:34:07.699 --> 01:34:08.199
Aye.

01:34:08.199 --> 01:34:08.699
Simmons?

01:34:09.699 --> 01:34:10.199
Aye.

01:34:10.199 --> 01:34:12.369
Parker?

01:34:12.369 --> 01:34:12.869
Aye.

01:34:14.869 --> 01:34:17.569
We have six of the eight attorneys, Zito, do I need?

01:34:17.569 --> 01:34:23.510
that's that's enough that's two thirds of eight so that's six zero six to zero to

01:34:23.510 --> 01:34:30.890
one two thirds of eight is six okay so then six to zero one is the final

01:34:30.890 --> 01:34:35.729
passage for this six one one with this ordinance is there any further oh wait a

01:34:35.729 --> 01:34:42.890
second one two three four six one one thank you welcome any further discussion

01:34:42.890 --> 01:34:47.270
Council, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:34:47.270 --> 01:34:48.510
Stacy?

01:34:48.510 --> 01:34:51.109
I'm saying.

01:34:51.109 --> 01:34:51.789
Shadle?

01:34:51.789 --> 01:34:52.630
Aye.

01:34:52.630 --> 01:34:53.350
Sanders?

01:34:53.350 --> 01:34:53.850
Aye.

01:34:53.850 --> 01:34:54.430
Sellers?

01:34:54.430 --> 01:34:54.949
Aye.

01:34:54.949 --> 01:34:55.449
Klemm?

01:34:55.449 --> 01:34:55.949
Aye.

01:34:55.949 --> 01:34:56.510
Monroe?

01:34:56.510 --> 01:34:57.149
Aye.

01:34:57.149 --> 01:34:58.470
Simmons?

01:34:58.470 --> 01:34:58.970
No.

01:34:58.970 --> 01:34:59.470
And Parker?

01:34:59.470 --> 01:35:00.310
Aye.

01:35:00.310 --> 01:35:03.430
The motion passes 6-1-1.

01:35:03.430 --> 01:35:05.750
And we'll move on to item number 14,

01:35:05.750 --> 01:35:09.350
which is the first reading of ordinance 2025-22.

01:35:09.350 --> 01:35:11.630
Could you please read this?

01:35:11.630 --> 01:35:13.510
Ordinance approving hanger leases.

01:35:13.510 --> 01:35:22.590
Tonight we have C-7, K-5 Aviation, K-5, which is where the name came from, K-5 Aviation,

01:35:22.590 --> 01:35:30.229
K-6, Stan Tepper, K-7, Jeff Matica, M-5, MIG Aviation.

01:35:30.229 --> 01:35:31.229
Manager Boyer?

01:35:31.229 --> 01:35:32.229
Thank you, Your Honor.

01:35:32.229 --> 01:35:36.710
So, again, as staff is working through these leases, getting them signed, we have a group

01:35:36.710 --> 01:35:40.989
of five that we'd like you to approve tonight, so staff recommendation is to approve all

01:35:40.989 --> 01:35:43.430
five leases.

01:35:43.430 --> 01:35:54.430
I need a motion to move this forward. Second. A motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion on this ordinance. Alderman Monroe.

01:35:54.430 --> 01:36:07.430
Thank you, Madam Mayor. A few questions here. How many, it seems like we're getting closer and closer to having a complete list of all the leases redone. How many are outstanding beyond this list so far?

01:36:07.430 --> 01:36:15.430
I think we still have about 20. So we're only half? Yeah, we have 25 executed. We got more to go.

01:36:15.430 --> 01:36:21.430
Are there any that look to be challenging or are they just all pretty much straightforward?

01:36:21.430 --> 01:36:27.430
I've had a few conversations with some of the folks. They've gone ahead and moved forward with

01:36:27.430 --> 01:36:31.430
signing the lease, so I guess it's going to come down to us contacting everybody at this bottom end

01:36:31.430 --> 01:36:35.430
and figuring out if there are, but I don't think there's a whole lot of challenges there.

01:36:35.430 --> 01:36:39.430
Zerbe. We just need to follow up all with them. Okay, thank you.

01:36:39.430 --> 01:36:49.109
Alderman Sanders? Yeah, also have those leases been upgraded to, you know, regular

01:36:49.109 --> 01:36:54.869
standards? Yes, they're in compliance with what the lease format the council

01:36:54.869 --> 01:37:06.729
approved at the end of last year. Okay. Alderman Stacey? About three weeks ago

01:37:06.729 --> 01:37:20.909
Co., these were on the agenda, and N2 was also included, but it is now missing.

01:37:20.909 --> 01:37:22.189
Why is that?

01:37:22.189 --> 01:37:25.180
Okay.

01:37:25.180 --> 01:37:28.319
Go back.

01:37:28.319 --> 01:37:29.319
Madam Clerk?

01:37:29.319 --> 01:37:31.840
There were questions on who was actually in there.

01:37:31.840 --> 01:37:36.800
We had a deceased Les E, and it just needed a little more following up.

01:37:36.800 --> 01:37:45.779
Okay, so N2, are you telling me that N2 has not been leased?

01:37:45.779 --> 01:37:49.340
The lease has not been finalized.

01:37:49.340 --> 01:37:53.100
The lease has not been finalized.

01:37:53.100 --> 01:37:54.659
Okay.

01:37:54.659 --> 01:37:59.869
And then M5 came in since that time.

01:37:59.869 --> 01:38:01.350
And what, honey?

01:38:01.350 --> 01:38:07.789
M5 was also not on there the last time, but we've received it since, so it got added too.

01:38:07.789 --> 01:38:11.420
Okay.

01:38:11.420 --> 01:38:15.100
If there's no further discussion, there is an ask of the suspension of the rules.

01:38:15.100 --> 01:38:18.420
I would make that motion, Joy.

01:38:18.420 --> 01:38:24.420
I just say some of, I request it, the suspension of the rules.

01:38:24.420 --> 01:38:25.420
Yes.

01:38:25.420 --> 01:38:31.300
Tom, you, okay, all right, we have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman

01:38:31.300 --> 01:38:35.460
Klemm for suspension of the rules, again, same standards.

01:38:35.460 --> 01:38:37.180
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:38:37.180 --> 01:38:39.500
Stacy?

01:38:39.500 --> 01:38:40.500
Shadle?

01:38:40.500 --> 01:38:41.500
Aye.

01:38:41.500 --> 01:38:42.500
Sanders?

01:38:42.500 --> 01:39:01.500
Klemm, Monroe, Simmons, Parker, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, we do have 6 favorable votes, 6, 1 no, 1 absent, it passes.

01:39:01.500 --> 01:39:07.500
So before you counsel, is the passage of these hanger leases?

01:39:07.500 --> 01:39:10.500
Is there no further discussion or did you have something?

01:39:10.500 --> 01:39:22.059
I do have a question. We have a director over the airport and why can't she handle this?

01:39:22.059 --> 01:39:28.340
Why can't she make these decisions and she decide and she take care of all of this? That's

01:39:28.340 --> 01:39:30.619
why we have a director.

01:39:30.619 --> 01:39:33.059
Attorney Zito?

01:39:33.059 --> 01:39:37.779
Well, as far as like to approve the leases, they have to be approved by ordinance if that's

01:39:37.779 --> 01:39:43.220
what you're referring to so that only the council can can vote to approve the

01:39:43.220 --> 01:39:44.680
I'm going to vote to approve the ordinance that approves all the leases because they have

01:39:44.680 --> 01:39:46.079
to be approved by ordinance.

01:39:46.079 --> 01:39:48.600
All leases have to be approved by ordinance?

01:39:48.600 --> 01:39:52.640
Yeah, these leases have to be approved by ordinance.

01:39:52.640 --> 01:39:56.079
And when was this ordinance created?

01:39:56.079 --> 01:40:00.359
The one that's in the packet was probably created, well, it was on the agenda three

01:40:00.359 --> 01:40:05.270
weeks ago, so probably about three, four weeks ago.

01:40:05.270 --> 01:40:08.659
Okay.

01:40:08.659 --> 01:40:13.180
So we can change that ordinance.

01:40:13.180 --> 01:40:17.420
I suppose you could change the ordinance, but the ordinance is not like in the code book type ordinance.

01:40:17.420 --> 01:40:23.119
It's literally just an ordinance that approves the lease agreement. So if you look in your packet, it's not like a

01:40:23.979 --> 01:40:29.260
like a language that's in the code book. It just says, you know, we hereby, you know,

01:40:29.260 --> 01:40:36.220
now therefore be it ordained by the City Council that this group of one, two, three, five leases is hereby approved by the Council.

01:40:36.220 --> 01:40:47.220
Okay, because, you know, we are expected to respect the opinion and the knowledge of our directors.

01:40:47.220 --> 01:40:51.220
So we have an airport director.

01:40:51.220 --> 01:40:54.220
No, she's not a director.

01:40:54.220 --> 01:41:01.220
And our directors don't approve ordinances. That's your job.

01:41:01.220 --> 01:41:06.720
Okay, well nobody was approving them once upon a time.

01:41:06.720 --> 01:41:16.319
I think is what other person Stacy's asking is could there be an

01:41:16.319 --> 01:41:22.399
ordinance amendment to have the airport manager and or the city manager approve

01:41:22.399 --> 01:41:25.920
these since they approve the contracts instead of them all coming to the

01:41:25.920 --> 01:41:32.199
meetings is that correct well I wasn't even including city manager I was asking

01:41:32.199 --> 01:41:38.199
can the director of the airport I think we covered that before and since it's a

01:41:38.199 --> 01:41:44.079
contract lease it has to be done by an official city or by the council one of

01:41:44.079 --> 01:41:49.479
the two it can't be done by a contract director or a contact contract manager

01:41:49.479 --> 01:41:56.640
excuse me now my understanding is that the airport manager has signed off on

01:41:56.640 --> 01:42:00.239
this template lease form that we're using and that's why we are up you know

01:42:00.239 --> 01:42:04.760
we're going to every tenant you know to update their leases Angie I see you're

01:42:04.760 --> 01:42:07.760
Do you have anything that you would want to add to that?

01:42:07.760 --> 01:42:09.760
Oh, hi Angie.

01:42:09.760 --> 01:42:11.760
Why is that pink? I didn't even see it.

01:42:11.760 --> 01:42:15.760
That is correct. I ended up signing off on those as far as the lease itself.

01:42:15.760 --> 01:42:21.760
And that's all that's bringing forward to you guys is everyone that has already been in place,

01:42:21.760 --> 01:42:24.760
they're coming forward and signing the new lease.

01:42:24.760 --> 01:42:29.760
That's all we're doing here is just approving. You guys are approving the new leases, the new format.

01:42:29.760 --> 01:42:31.760
So it's still the same people.

01:42:31.760 --> 01:42:41.760
I'm just trying to understand, why do every one of these, since we're just approving the new lease, why do it have to come to the council? Why can't that be worked out?

01:42:41.760 --> 01:42:48.760
There's an ordinance that says, and that's what Attorney Zito would like, that all these leases come forward to the council.

01:42:48.760 --> 01:42:53.760
But if we gave, if we created an ordinance directing you to hand her...

01:42:53.760 --> 01:42:57.760
That is correct. That can be changed, if I am correct on that.

01:42:57.760 --> 01:43:00.760
And are you skilled and capable of doing that?

01:43:00.760 --> 01:43:02.520
and that.

01:43:02.520 --> 01:43:04.640
I can end up doing that, but I am not a director.

01:43:04.640 --> 01:43:07.760
I am just, I am a contracted manager.

01:43:07.760 --> 01:43:09.439
I'm contracted to run the airport.

01:43:15.140 --> 01:43:15.979
Correct.

01:43:15.979 --> 01:43:19.060
So ultimately, if the council wanted to set a policy

01:43:19.060 --> 01:43:23.739
that says that with regards to these airplane leases,

01:43:23.739 --> 01:43:28.579
that if you wanted to authorize another person

01:43:28.579 --> 01:43:31.140
to sign the lease, let's say, but putting parameters,

01:43:31.140 --> 01:43:36.659
you know let's for example say you guys approved the lease template form right

01:43:36.659 --> 01:43:40.859
and let's say that the tenant says yep I got no changes to it whatsoever I'm good

01:43:40.859 --> 01:43:45.979
with the template form in that situation if you wanted to adopt an ordinance that

01:43:45.979 --> 01:43:51.380
says the city manager or the airport manager has the authority to in that

01:43:51.380 --> 01:43:54.659
circumstance sign the lease without it coming back to council I suppose you

01:43:54.659 --> 01:43:58.539
guys could do that obviously that takes the oversight out of your guys's hands

01:43:58.539 --> 01:44:05.500
at that point. So you could, but you could. They have came to the council in the

01:44:05.500 --> 01:44:11.300
last year or so, you know, we're waiving the rules, we're doing this, we're signing

01:44:11.300 --> 01:44:22.000
off, and they're gone. Alderman Klemm. Yes. After we get through this, I'd like to

01:44:22.000 --> 01:44:29.960
discuss as Alderman Stacy has, before 2018 we never signed any of these leases.

01:44:29.960 --> 01:44:36.880
There's no sense for us to see them. You've got a city manager. You've got an airport manager.

01:44:36.880 --> 01:44:40.720
If those people can't sign off on the leases, we better get two other people.

01:44:42.520 --> 01:44:48.359
So there's no sense for them to come through us, but I'd like to just bring that up.

01:44:48.359 --> 01:44:48.859
Sounds good.

01:44:48.859 --> 01:44:51.199
At the next COW meeting so we can discuss it.

01:44:52.159 --> 01:44:57.869
No, we'll go through with these and do these, you know.

01:44:59.609 --> 01:45:01.609
At any point...

01:45:01.609 --> 01:45:07.609
So it's Aldrin, Klemm, yeah, you find a second person to put that on for the next college. That's acceptable.

01:45:07.609 --> 01:45:08.609
Okay.

01:45:08.609 --> 01:45:09.609
Aldrin Sanders.

01:45:09.609 --> 01:45:24.609
Yeah, I like to say that this particular ordinance needs an amendment to it, simply because the format of these leases are not completed.

01:45:24.609 --> 01:45:54.609
We have a jurisdictional kind of situation here when it comes to contracts and I don't think no one individual name should be on a contract without the council going through the process of looking at that particular contract, any contract as far as I'm concerned, so we're not just going to be passive about contracts and who signs it and who signs

01:45:54.609 --> 01:45:55.609
Fowler.

01:45:55.609 --> 01:46:01.970
We have to be responsible for what we're looking at when it comes to contracts, and that means

01:46:01.970 --> 01:46:08.989
that those format, the format of a contract lease should be what it is, it should have

01:46:08.989 --> 01:46:14.090
an update upgraded or whatever the case is, but some changes needs to be made and there

01:46:14.090 --> 01:46:17.529
needs to be an amendment to that.

01:46:17.529 --> 01:46:23.250
So there could be like an organization wants to go sign off on checks or whatever, you

01:46:23.250 --> 01:46:24.250
and so on.

01:46:24.250 --> 01:46:38.930
And so we're not going to be passive and allow this to be just passed on through without

01:46:38.930 --> 01:46:41.149
anybody having anything to say about it.

01:46:41.149 --> 01:46:48.329
So I think the council needs to be able to inject their views and opinions about anything

01:46:48.329 --> 01:46:51.710
that has to do with contractual things.

01:46:51.710 --> 01:46:52.710
That's my...

01:46:52.710 --> 01:47:01.710
and that you can have your opportunity to air that at the next committee the whole if Alderman Klemm chooses to put that on.

01:47:01.710 --> 01:47:08.710
So right now we're talking about approving these leases that are before you. So if there's no further discussion on these leases.

01:47:08.710 --> 01:47:10.710
Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

01:47:10.710 --> 01:47:11.710
Stacy? Aye.

01:47:11.710 --> 01:47:12.710
Shadle? Aye.

01:47:12.710 --> 01:47:13.710
Sanders? No.

01:47:13.710 --> 01:47:15.710
Sellers? Aye.

01:47:15.710 --> 01:47:16.710
Klemm? Aye.

01:47:16.710 --> 01:47:17.710
Monroe? Aye.

01:47:17.710 --> 01:47:19.710
Simmons?

01:47:19.710 --> 01:47:31.310
and she is absent Parker the motion passes seven to zero six to zero thank

01:47:31.310 --> 01:47:37.789
you thank you six one six one all right item number 15 is the first reading of

01:47:37.789 --> 01:47:43.829
ordinance 2025 23 could you please read this ordinance establishing a special

01:47:43.829 --> 01:47:48.390
service area Gladewood subdivision thank you attorney Cox would you like to start

01:47:48.390 --> 01:47:58.909
this conversation or or manager Boyer did you yep I'll be happy to carry on so

01:47:58.909 --> 01:48:03.829
the Gladewood neighborhood was established in the 1960s the Park

01:48:03.829 --> 01:48:08.109
District raised funds by selling a portion of its land the developer built

01:48:08.109 --> 01:48:12.710
the Gladewood neighborhood and Gladewood Drive as a private street with specific

01:48:12.710 --> 01:48:17.789
conditions for a city acceptance that were never met such as proper width and

01:48:17.789 --> 01:48:22.409
Drainage. Over the years, residents and city officials often believed Gladewood

01:48:22.409 --> 01:48:27.550
Drive was a dedicated city street, public street, leading to occasional city

01:48:27.550 --> 01:48:32.270
maintenance. However, research related to the Demeter Bridge revealed the roads

01:48:32.270 --> 01:48:35.789
private status leading to the prompt suspension of city maintenance

01:48:35.789 --> 01:48:41.109
activities. The city staff engaged in discussions with Gladewood residents to

01:48:41.109 --> 01:48:44.390
explore possible solutions for addressing the neighborhood's road

01:48:44.390 --> 01:48:47.750
condition through these efforts a mutually acceptable resolution was

01:48:47.750 --> 01:48:52.989
developed leading to the circulation of a petition among subdivision property

01:48:52.989 --> 01:48:56.930
owners. Over half of the property owners have signed the petition expressing

01:48:56.930 --> 01:49:02.630
interest in creating a special service area based on the term outlined in the

01:49:02.630 --> 01:49:08.770
petition. The agreement is in raises in short raises about $90,000 over 15

01:49:08.770 --> 01:49:12.170
years from the property owners to go toward the eventual resurfacing of the

01:49:12.170 --> 01:49:18.329
Street before deciding whether to adopt the special service area a public hearing

01:49:18.329 --> 01:49:22.270
must be held to allow for objections and the ordinance before the council tonight

01:49:22.270 --> 01:49:26.489
simply sets the hearing upon passing this ordinance notice of the hearing

01:49:26.489 --> 01:49:30.609
will be published and the proposed plan will be presented to the public for

01:49:30.609 --> 01:49:35.390
feedback after a 60-day period for objections if fewer than 50% of the

01:49:35.390 --> 01:49:41.770
property owners and I will say 10 I believe that's actually my correct on

01:49:41.770 --> 01:49:45.840
I believe that's actually, am I correct on that? The matter would come back for the council

01:49:45.840 --> 01:49:52.640
for a final vote to establish the special service area. Accordingly, tonight's vote

01:49:52.640 --> 01:49:57.640
neither approves nor disapproves the special service area itself, but merely initiates

01:49:57.640 --> 01:50:01.760
the formal process for its consideration and staff recommends moving forward with this

01:50:01.760 --> 01:50:02.760
ordinance.

01:50:02.760 --> 01:50:10.920
so move. We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Klemm

01:50:10.920 --> 01:50:14.680
to move this ordinance on to the next regularly scheduled meeting. Attorney Cox

01:50:14.680 --> 01:50:20.479
did you want to add to anything? Okay, discussion? Alderman Stacey? I would like

01:50:20.479 --> 01:50:31.640
to see this go to the COW so that we can look into this Gladewood or Gladwood

01:50:31.640 --> 01:50:40.560
and see the information gathered from that community and really see for

01:50:40.560 --> 01:50:45.960
ourselves how many is on board, how many is off board, and I would just like to

01:50:45.960 --> 01:50:56.609
move it to the count. Is that a motion? That's a motion. Is there a second?

01:50:56.609 --> 01:51:03.850
Your Alderman Sanders is the second on moving it to your second on moving it to

01:51:03.850 --> 01:51:12.779
the cow. Is that correct? No, I'm awake. Well, yeah, I second it for the cow, but I

01:51:12.779 --> 01:51:18.539
was hoping that the floor open for discussion. We discussed it at the cow.

01:51:18.539 --> 01:51:22.300
That's not what she's asking. She's asking for it to be moved to the cow. Are

01:51:22.300 --> 01:51:26.340
you with the second or no? Yeah, I'm with the second now. I see what she's talking

01:51:26.340 --> 01:51:28.340
and

01:51:29.460 --> 01:51:31.460
John.

01:51:32.739 --> 01:51:34.739
We need to do more exploratory surgery on that project.

01:51:36.859 --> 01:51:39.119
» So we have a motion of moving this to the next committee of

01:51:39.119 --> 01:51:42.359
the hall. Is there any discussion on moving it to the

01:51:42.359 --> 01:51:46.359
committee of the whole? » Could I ask a question?

01:51:46.359 --> 01:51:49.260
» Yes. » What was the reason that we

01:51:49.260 --> 01:51:54.340
were looking for suspension of the rules? Was there a reason

01:51:54.340 --> 01:52:00.640
just because we've been working on this since last year this particular ordinance

01:52:00.640 --> 01:52:06.180
is just setting a date for a public hearing and there's you know that's

01:52:06.180 --> 01:52:09.500
that's essentially in the interest of time and just moving this forward to get

01:52:09.500 --> 01:52:15.100
it resolved as rapidly as possible so it's not passing an ordinance per se it's

01:52:15.100 --> 01:52:20.500
just a hearing is that worded I probably didn't word that right yes this is

01:52:20.500 --> 01:52:24.140
Yeah, that's it. Basically just setting a hearing.

01:52:24.140 --> 01:52:29.460
That's why they want the suspension of the rule so they can move forward with the hearing date.

01:52:29.460 --> 01:52:31.819
So the hearing date has not been set?

01:52:31.819 --> 01:52:36.779
No, this is, that's what he's asking for, is a hearing, to be able to set a hearing.

01:52:36.779 --> 01:52:37.420
Madam Clerk?

01:52:37.420 --> 01:52:46.140
And that public hearing would be the opportunity for the public, just the community to speak on this, is that correct?

01:52:46.140 --> 01:52:51.739
Would that hearing be before the COW?

01:52:51.739 --> 01:52:52.460
I don't know.

01:52:52.460 --> 01:52:58.859
and be a special hearing special service area hearing so we don't have a date at this moment

01:52:58.859 --> 01:53:06.100
okay but since you don't have a date if we agree to let this move forward for the purpose

01:53:06.100 --> 01:53:16.609
of getting a date would it be before the cow or after the cow because I don't have a problem

01:53:16.609 --> 01:53:29.329
with moving forward with a date but I want it after the cow hearing after the after the

01:53:29.329 --> 01:53:37.369
and I think that's 15 days at minimum.

01:53:37.369 --> 01:53:38.369
Thank you for sharing that.

01:53:38.369 --> 01:53:39.369
Is that correct, Steve?

01:53:39.369 --> 01:53:40.369
Yeah.

01:53:40.369 --> 01:53:41.369
Yeah.

01:53:41.369 --> 01:53:44.670
Attorney Cox is shaking his head yes.

01:53:44.670 --> 01:53:52.109
And it's just little things like that that we don't know that changes the whole atmosphere

01:53:52.109 --> 01:53:59.340
if it would just be said.

01:53:59.340 --> 01:54:02.140
So then do you still want to have your motion on the floor of moving this to the COW or

01:54:02.140 --> 01:54:03.500
not?

01:54:03.500 --> 01:54:04.779
I do want it at the COW.

01:54:04.779 --> 01:54:09.699
Okay, so then, let's take the role on moving this to the COW.

01:54:09.699 --> 01:54:12.560
Stacy?

01:54:12.560 --> 01:54:14.000
That's what's on the floor, Alderman Sanders.

01:54:14.000 --> 01:54:15.000
Did you have something?

01:54:15.000 --> 01:54:17.439
I have a question.

01:54:17.439 --> 01:54:18.439
Okay.

01:54:18.439 --> 01:54:24.159
Moving it to the COW, is that saying that we can't go forward with establishing?

01:54:24.159 --> 01:54:25.159
Yeah.

01:54:25.159 --> 01:54:26.640
Yeah, we can.

01:54:26.640 --> 01:54:30.039
No, you can't, you don't get to keep going forward with this.

01:54:30.039 --> 01:54:31.039
This is...

01:54:31.039 --> 01:54:32.039
Okay.

01:54:32.039 --> 01:54:33.039
Huffines.

01:54:33.039 --> 01:54:38.119
Do you approve this ordinance of moving it forward or you go to the COW?

01:54:38.119 --> 01:54:39.119
So which one do you want to do?

01:54:39.119 --> 01:54:40.119
Okay.

01:54:40.119 --> 01:54:41.119
So wait.

01:54:41.119 --> 01:54:42.119
Now.

01:54:42.119 --> 01:54:55.229
However, if I take it off the floor to move it to the COW, it won't be dated before the

01:54:55.229 --> 01:54:58.710
COW anyway so we can still have it on the COW.

01:54:58.710 --> 01:55:02.470
And then it pushes it back a whole other week because they can't set a hearing date without

01:55:02.470 --> 01:55:03.470
this.

01:55:03.470 --> 01:55:12.869
I said, if we move forward with the hearing date, but then next week, I choose to put it on the COW.

01:55:12.869 --> 01:55:19.770
Yes, you can do that. So, you can do that. So, if you want to move this forward to set a hearing date,

01:55:19.770 --> 01:55:25.069
then contact Dovie tomorrow with who your second is and add it to the COW.

01:55:25.069 --> 01:55:27.369
Okay.

01:55:27.369 --> 01:55:32.770
There. So, are you okay removing your motion?

01:55:32.770 --> 01:55:37.250
Go ahead attorney Zito. Are you withdrawing your motion to lay this over to the council?

01:55:37.250 --> 01:55:41.329
I did withdraw. Alderman Sanders are you withdrawing?

01:55:44.050 --> 01:55:54.369
Sure you are. Okay my boss spoke. Okay so now before you is the discussion of the first reading

01:55:54.369 --> 01:56:00.770
of this ordinance which is the purpose of setting a hearing. Is there any other discussion on setting

01:56:00.770 --> 01:56:01.770
Huffines.

01:56:01.770 --> 01:56:07.920
And if not, they're at Alderman Sanders.

01:56:07.920 --> 01:56:17.409
Yeah, this thing had been something of going on, how many years was that?

01:56:17.409 --> 01:56:25.729
How many years had this been considered before tonight?

01:56:25.729 --> 01:56:28.050
How many years has this been on the table?

01:56:28.050 --> 01:56:31.329
I think we really started talking about this last spring.

01:56:31.329 --> 01:56:32.329
Last spring?

01:56:32.329 --> 01:56:33.329
Yeah.

01:56:33.329 --> 01:56:42.829
It doesn't hurt if we determine a scheduling date that might make it six more months down the line.

01:56:42.829 --> 01:56:52.829
It wouldn't matter. It should not matter until we understand that this property or this location is a private matter.

01:56:52.829 --> 01:56:55.329
Am I correct on that?

01:56:55.329 --> 01:57:00.829
Have they been annexed? Are they annexed into the city of Freeport? Is what I'm asking.

01:57:00.829 --> 01:57:04.270
Okay, they are annexed in, however, that's not the issue.

01:57:04.270 --> 01:57:13.390
I know that's not the issue, but the results are the city, they're asking the city to help

01:57:13.390 --> 01:57:20.470
provide services to that particular area, and it is well worth the council to know whether

01:57:20.470 --> 01:57:29.229
it's a private entity, or has it been annexed into the city, or is it still private, because

01:57:29.229 --> 01:57:36.750
if it's not exposed, if it's not a public venture, then it can't be a private venture, is what

01:57:36.750 --> 01:57:37.750
I'm getting at.

01:57:37.750 --> 01:57:44.350
We can't be using asset of the city taxpayers to accommodate a particular location if it

01:57:44.350 --> 01:57:46.630
was ever considered private.

01:57:46.630 --> 01:57:53.189
And from my understanding, that might be what it is if I do my homework, but that's the

01:57:53.189 --> 01:57:58.109
and I. And that's the reason why I ask, if six months down the road can give us enough

01:57:58.109 --> 01:58:08.229
time to understand that whole particular community, so we would know for sure what governs them

01:58:08.229 --> 01:58:10.590
and why now, you know.

01:58:10.590 --> 01:58:16.710
If I could just answer that, this is to set up a special service area for that community

01:58:16.710 --> 01:58:22.470
that lives on Gladewood, so that there can be a special assessment to those residents

01:58:22.470 --> 01:58:27.630
that will contribute to the maintenance of Gladewood.

01:58:27.630 --> 01:58:28.630
Okay.

01:58:28.630 --> 01:58:29.630
Okay.

01:58:29.630 --> 01:58:31.430
I have a question.

01:58:31.430 --> 01:58:32.430
Alderman Simmons.

01:58:32.430 --> 01:58:38.069
So everything else, the hearing is posted, the hearing is had, then it comes to us for

01:58:38.069 --> 01:58:39.510
approval.

01:58:39.510 --> 01:58:41.590
Why is this being done backwards?

01:58:41.590 --> 01:58:45.670
Where we're approving the ordinance, then having the hearing?

01:58:45.670 --> 01:58:48.229
Attorney Azito can answer that.

01:58:48.229 --> 01:58:52.449
for special service areas state statute says there's a it's a two step well

01:58:52.449 --> 01:58:57.470
let's call it three step process you have this initial ordinance that will set the

01:58:57.470 --> 01:59:01.309
date for the hearing there so you have to adopt this here I call I refer to it

01:59:01.309 --> 01:59:05.590
as the proposing ordinance you're proposing the the special service area

01:59:05.590 --> 01:59:09.470
and you're setting the date for the hearing then you have the hearing after

01:59:09.470 --> 01:59:13.190
you have the hearing there's a 60-day wait period where citizens have the

01:59:13.190 --> 01:59:19.869
the ability to file a petition objecting to the creation of the special service area.

01:59:19.869 --> 01:59:26.350
If 51 percent of the owners within the proposed special service area object to it, then you

01:59:26.350 --> 01:59:27.350
can't form it.

01:59:27.350 --> 01:59:31.229
But let's assume that you don't get 51 percent objecting to it, all right?

01:59:31.229 --> 01:59:36.670
Then the last step, the third step would be the establishing ordinance that actually establishes

01:59:36.670 --> 01:59:37.670
it.

01:59:37.670 --> 01:59:39.670
because of

01:59:39.670 --> 01:59:41.159
So that's because of the state statute, that's how it's written that you need two ordinances,

01:59:41.159 --> 01:59:45.000
one on the front end, one on the back end, public hearing in the middle.

01:59:45.000 --> 01:59:47.039
Thank you.

01:59:47.039 --> 01:59:52.159
Alderman Klemm, you haven't spoken yet.

01:59:52.159 --> 01:59:54.000
I just have a question.

01:59:54.000 --> 01:59:57.880
One of the things that does time make an element in this?

01:59:57.880 --> 02:00:02.920
Time makes an element in it, just to the fact that nothing's going to be done until this

02:00:02.920 --> 02:00:03.920
happens.

02:00:03.920 --> 02:00:08.840
Ford, if there's any road patching to be done, if there's any work like that to be done as

02:00:08.840 --> 02:00:13.520
it starts or that moves forward, it won't happen until this is resolved.

02:00:13.520 --> 02:00:14.520
Right.

02:00:14.520 --> 02:00:16.840
The residents of Gladewood would like to get this moving.

02:00:16.840 --> 02:00:18.319
Alderman Stacey.

02:00:18.319 --> 02:00:19.319
Okay.

02:00:19.319 --> 02:00:33.159
So by us agreeing to this tonight, are we tying our hands forever to set a hearing?

02:00:33.159 --> 02:00:34.920
and

02:00:34.920 --> 02:00:35.159
the

02:00:35.159 --> 02:00:36.159
public hearing.

02:00:36.159 --> 02:00:37.159
Is this for the hearing?

02:00:37.159 --> 02:00:38.159
No.

02:00:38.159 --> 02:00:43.369
This is just for setting a hearing?

02:00:43.369 --> 02:00:45.369
Yes.

02:00:45.369 --> 02:00:47.369
Right.

02:00:47.369 --> 02:00:51.369
You're saying by adopting this ordinance, you're basically saying, we agree to move forward with this process.

02:00:51.369 --> 02:01:03.369
And that process that involves, number one, picking a hearing date, two, publishing notice in the newspaper of what that hearing date is, conducting the public hearing so the public can come and express their opinion,

02:01:03.369 --> 02:01:09.569
and then having a final ordinance if 51 if you don't have the records of number

02:01:09.569 --> 02:01:13.409
of objectors because again if you're 51% of the owners property owners say they

02:01:13.409 --> 02:01:17.289
don't want the SSA then you can't form it there but let's assume you don't get

02:01:17.289 --> 02:01:21.489
51 objecting to it then it comes right back to the council for that second

02:01:21.489 --> 02:01:28.489
ordinance where you guys can vote on whether or not or not and it won't be

02:01:28.489 --> 02:02:02.229
Farms. Alderman Monroe. Thank you, Madam Mayor. So this question is to the staff, it you know, if this is approved, what does that do with Gladewood as far as on the five year plan? And what work was done prior? Or do we know what work was done with the road surface? So does that mean this is an additional amount of work for the city to repair that road because Gladewood is in horrible shape? Yeah, I could probably answer that for you Alderman Monroe.

02:02:02.229 --> 02:02:08.909
essentially we would have to schedule there's two main parts of this three

02:02:08.909 --> 02:02:15.229
actually the entrance and the exit need to be basically taken down and new base

02:02:15.229 --> 02:02:22.090
installed and the re-asphalted at that point that's kind of the most problematic

02:02:22.090 --> 02:02:26.390
areas at this time outside of just normal maintenance and then it would be

02:02:26.390 --> 02:02:32.829
up to council as we look forward in our road program as to where that falls in

02:02:32.829 --> 02:02:38.789
terms of a reconstruct. So it is fully depreciated, it's in pretty bad shape and

02:02:38.789 --> 02:02:43.029
but I will say it will be up to the council to decide where that falls within

02:02:43.029 --> 02:02:49.630
the road program moving forward. Is that the city's responsibility to fix them

02:02:49.630 --> 02:02:58.510
Rhodes? If the city brings Gladewood in as a city street, it would then be a city

02:02:58.510 --> 02:03:04.430
street. However, the special service area is a way to recapture some of the

02:03:04.430 --> 02:03:09.069
expenses related to the road by adding that to the residents that currently

02:03:09.069 --> 02:03:15.510
live on Gladewood to participate with that renovation. Do you know how many roads

02:03:15.510 --> 02:03:24.180
it's a head of them roads yep we have a lot of roads that need work Alderman

02:03:24.180 --> 02:03:36.529
Sanders yeah man seems like we've been we're going in a loop here that property

02:03:36.529 --> 02:03:44.329
is private simply because you're indicating that it is for us to take

02:03:44.329 --> 02:03:46.329
and

02:03:47.590 --> 02:03:49.590
John.

02:03:51.090 --> 02:03:53.090
And it's not city property yet.

02:03:55.109 --> 02:03:57.109
It's not? No, it's not city property.

02:03:58.289 --> 02:04:00.289
You can keep shaking your head until I find out much more about

02:04:01.409 --> 02:04:03.409
the situation because you have not demonstrated or shown any

02:04:05.270 --> 02:04:07.270
reason for me not to say otherwise.

02:04:08.869 --> 02:04:10.869
Okay? So the thing is, the thing is, all of the investment that

02:04:12.189 --> 02:04:14.189
is being considered, we're talking about

02:04:14.329 --> 02:04:15.329
Fowler.

02:04:15.329 --> 02:04:19.449
We're restructuring things over there without an assessment, without an evaluation that

02:04:19.449 --> 02:04:21.289
the council know about.

02:04:21.289 --> 02:04:24.970
We don't know what the whole scope of the matter is.

02:04:24.970 --> 02:04:27.130
We're in the dark right now.

02:04:27.130 --> 02:04:33.930
And keeping us in the dark about the whole atmosphere over there, it's not good practice.

02:04:33.930 --> 02:04:38.489
And so my thing is, you bring this to the council, you're bringing this to the council

02:04:38.489 --> 02:04:44.090
and we're asking things that sometimes we're not privy to.

02:04:44.090 --> 02:04:48.289
We're asking for things that you have not conveyed to us.

02:04:48.289 --> 02:04:52.930
And if we have not been exposed to any of this, we don't know what we're getting.

02:04:52.930 --> 02:04:55.569
You know, we don't know whether we're getting a clown in a bucket.

02:04:55.569 --> 02:05:01.609
We don't know that yet until we look at the condition and what we're accepting.

02:05:01.609 --> 02:05:09.250
Because right now, as it looks right now, the investment that I'm hearing is that it's

02:05:09.250 --> 02:05:14.250
and I have been working on this for a long time, and I think it's time for us to make

02:05:14.250 --> 02:05:21.250
a proper investment into the project of this thing, of this nature. And so my thing is,

02:05:21.250 --> 02:05:29.250
where does the taxpayers come in or the city come in to help that particular service? Are

02:05:29.250 --> 02:05:36.250
we being used, in other words? Are we being compromised with an area that we don't know

02:05:36.250 --> 02:05:40.090
We don't know anything about so we need to we need to be able to

02:05:41.649 --> 02:05:46.970
Justify why it is that we want to look into this matter, and we're not doing that

02:05:48.170 --> 02:05:56.489
And I don't feel that I don't feel comparable. I don't feel comfortable with the fact that I'm sitting here with my mind

02:05:57.449 --> 02:06:03.609
Scrambling about this whole thing. I don't like that you know and I'm gonna be frank with you

02:06:03.609 --> 02:06:10.850
Miller. Let us let us do diligence and bring it to the council in a proper way so we can

02:06:10.850 --> 02:06:16.649
make an evaluation of what is being done. The same thing about the water well and the

02:06:16.649 --> 02:06:22.689
septics over there. We still don't know what's the going on and things of this nature. Why?

02:06:22.689 --> 02:06:27.449
Because we don't have nothing tangible. We don't have no documentation. We don't have

02:06:27.449 --> 02:06:31.810
nothing in writing. And every time you guys open up your mouth, we're supposed to believe

02:07:01.810 --> 02:07:15.930
Alderman Sanders, Alderman Sanders, I do want to say something, Alderman Sanders, just to

02:07:15.930 --> 02:07:22.770
answer that, Alderman Sanders, we have not met in many months, I have called you, I have

02:07:22.770 --> 02:07:28.329
asked you to come in, I have invited you to lunch, I have done everything I know what to

02:07:28.329 --> 02:07:29.329
Schaedle.

02:07:29.329 --> 02:07:41.770
So I apologize that you're confused and don't understand what we're doing here, but please

02:07:41.770 --> 02:07:42.770
come in.

02:07:42.770 --> 02:07:43.770
I'll be happy to enlighten you.

02:07:43.770 --> 02:07:44.770
Yeah.

02:07:44.770 --> 02:07:47.890
Some things are not being disclosed, all I have to say.

02:07:47.890 --> 02:07:48.890
Is there anything?

02:07:48.890 --> 02:07:49.890
Alderman Schaedle?

02:07:49.890 --> 02:07:50.890
Yeah.

02:07:50.890 --> 02:07:56.569
I was actually just going to mention how odd it was that you hadn't been abreast of any

02:07:56.569 --> 02:07:58.569
B. Bates, and John Lennon.

02:07:58.569 --> 02:08:00.569
We have a lot of discussion about this.

02:08:00.569 --> 02:08:02.569
I've discussed it with Manager Boyer numerous times over the

02:08:02.569 --> 02:08:05.569
last nine months because I get into his office and we have

02:08:05.569 --> 02:08:07.569
discussions.

02:08:07.569 --> 02:08:09.569
And that's how you stay up on topics.

02:08:09.569 --> 02:08:11.569
Yeah.

02:08:11.569 --> 02:08:13.569
I resent your comment, too.

02:08:13.569 --> 02:08:18.800
Is there any other discussion?

02:08:18.800 --> 02:08:21.800
Well, we do have a request for suspension of the rules.

02:08:21.800 --> 02:08:24.800
If we want to go to attorney tax, you want to add to something

02:08:24.800 --> 02:08:26.800
first?

02:08:26.800 --> 02:08:30.479
just if we're going to suspend the rules the ordinance is presented doesn't have a date

02:08:30.899 --> 02:08:34.940
currently scheduled for that hearing the idea was that that would be scheduled at some point

02:08:34.979 --> 02:08:40.680
so I would suggest if you're going to suspend the rules and pass that this evening you just want to set a range of dates that

02:08:40.840 --> 02:08:44.579
staff can set that somewhere outside of 15 days. There's a

02:08:45.680 --> 02:08:52.559
statutory requirement there. So if you'd set a range of dates, I would suggest between say 20 and 40 days out

02:08:52.559 --> 02:08:57.680
out we can find a date the City Hall is available and have that that hearing but

02:08:57.680 --> 02:09:02.100
as drafted the ordinance calls for a specific date and I think just passing

02:09:02.100 --> 02:09:09.329
that tonight could create some confusion. So how do we move forward on this? Do we

02:09:09.329 --> 02:09:18.890
suspend the rule as for that first or do we ask for a date? Yes. So if this is

02:09:18.890 --> 02:09:25.250
accepted and this passes then they will get their entry ways done right away. Is

02:09:25.250 --> 02:09:31.090
Is that correct? Like you said, that would be the first thing that needs to be handled.

02:09:31.090 --> 02:09:36.010
I get that this is a multi-stage process, so the first step is going to be doing a hearing.

02:09:36.010 --> 02:09:38.000
And I'm going to be doing a hearing.

02:09:38.000 --> 02:09:40.000
And that's all we're approving tonight.

02:09:40.000 --> 02:09:42.000
Okay.

02:09:42.000 --> 02:09:44.000
Once we do the hearing and it

02:09:44.000 --> 02:09:46.000
passes, they agree and it comes back.

02:09:46.000 --> 02:09:48.000
If it passes, Council.

02:09:48.000 --> 02:09:50.000
Final step.

02:09:50.000 --> 02:09:52.000
Didn't you say that there,

02:09:52.000 --> 02:09:54.000
the entryways to the streets would be

02:09:54.000 --> 02:09:56.000
done right away?

02:09:56.000 --> 02:09:58.000
Well, when I say right away, we're looking at 2026.

02:09:58.000 --> 02:10:00.000
It'll be in the

02:10:00.000 --> 02:10:02.000
construction plan for 26.

02:10:02.000 --> 02:10:10.899
and

02:10:10.899 --> 02:10:13.899
Pat.

02:10:13.899 --> 02:10:15.899
We can't hear you.

02:10:15.899 --> 02:10:17.899
Okay.

02:10:17.899 --> 02:10:19.899
So, follow-up.

02:10:19.899 --> 02:10:21.899
Once we're all said and done, if this is approved and passed,

02:10:21.899 --> 02:10:23.899
this final step, for a few hundred dollars a year on their

02:10:23.899 --> 02:10:25.899
taxes, they get to skip the line and be part of 2026?

02:10:25.899 --> 02:10:29.899
Only on the entryway and exit, about 200 feet on the entry and

02:10:29.899 --> 02:10:31.899
and

02:10:34.000 --> 02:10:37.399
I think we're going to be doing a lot of work as well. It's just

02:10:37.399 --> 02:10:39.399
dealing with the proximate issue.

02:10:40.520 --> 02:10:42.520
≫ Thank you. ≫ Alderman Monroe?

02:10:44.039 --> 02:10:47.039
≫ Thank you, Madam Mayor. So why is this being brought

02:10:47.039 --> 02:10:50.659
forward today and why not sooner? Why has this been kind

02:10:50.659 --> 02:10:52.659
of

02:10:53.760 --> 02:10:55.760
and now it's an emergency kind of move forward and get it into

02:10:56.859 --> 02:10:58.859
2026?

02:10:59.899 --> 02:11:09.899
They've been talking to each other, and I was just presented, it wasn't last week but the prior week, with all the petitions necessary to move forward.

02:11:15.159 --> 02:11:22.159
And also the residents, they are contributing to some of this work, correct?

02:11:22.159 --> 02:11:32.159
In the big, yes. There's a $400 per year special assessment on each property out there. I think the total will be about $90,000 when it's all said and done.

02:11:32.159 --> 02:11:46.840
Actually, Alderman Monroe, you, Stacy, Sanders, and Simmons have all spoken twice, so any further discussion?

02:11:46.840 --> 02:12:01.399
I was just going to comment that there's several people from the Gladewood area here tonight, one of which Mr. Larson was kind of their spokesperson.

02:12:01.399 --> 02:12:04.439
B. Bates, and John H. Bates.

02:12:04.439 --> 02:12:08.159
And a great group of people that are here today.

02:12:08.159 --> 02:12:11.359
And we're going to talk about that in a little bit.

02:12:11.359 --> 02:12:13.439
So, I'm going to start with John.

02:12:13.439 --> 02:12:20.210
He was speaking on behalf of the Gladewood Group.

02:12:20.210 --> 02:12:21.210
Not me.

02:12:21.210 --> 02:12:22.210
He was not speaking for me.

02:12:22.210 --> 02:12:23.210
I'm the president.

02:12:23.210 --> 02:12:24.210
All right.

02:12:24.210 --> 02:12:29.210
But during the meetings, he was speaking on behalf of the Gladewood Group that came.

02:12:29.210 --> 02:12:30.210
Okay.

02:12:30.210 --> 02:12:33.289
Okay.

02:12:33.289 --> 02:12:38.500
So, if there's no further discussion on this ordinance of setting a hearing, is there a

02:12:38.500 --> 02:12:43.819
So again, this is just about moving the setting of the hearing forward.

02:12:43.819 --> 02:12:50.560
I would probably recommend a motion to amend the ordinance first to set a date and it can

02:12:50.560 --> 02:12:57.340
be something generic like after, after the cow meeting, you can set it after the cow

02:12:57.340 --> 02:13:02.079
and then, you know, within, you know, 20 days after the cow or something like that.

02:13:02.079 --> 02:13:04.520
So motion second on that amendment.

02:13:04.520 --> 02:13:09.439
once the date is that range is set then you can ask for a motion to suspend the

02:13:09.439 --> 02:13:24.949
rules. So is there a motion to amend? Motion to amend to set to set the date

02:13:24.949 --> 02:13:34.989
meeting dates from 20 to 40 days from now. All right that would get us past the

02:13:34.989 --> 02:13:46.989
So we have a motion to amend this setting in this hearing date for 20 to 40 days out. Is there a second? Second.

02:13:46.989 --> 02:14:00.989
We have a motion made by Shadle, seconded by Sellers. Any discussion on the amendment itself? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll on the amendment of adding 20 to 40 days?

02:14:00.989 --> 02:14:10.829
Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Monroe, Simmons, and Parker.

02:14:10.829 --> 02:14:13.149
Aye. The motion passes seven to one.

02:14:15.489 --> 02:14:20.289
Okay. Now, now if you want to have a motion to suspend so we can keep moving forward,

02:14:20.289 --> 02:14:26.460
I'll need that if that's your preference. Motion to suspend the rules.

02:14:28.060 --> 02:14:29.899
Second. We have a motion made by

02:14:29.899 --> 02:14:31.899
and Suttman.

02:14:31.899 --> 02:14:33.899
The motion is carried by Alderman Shadle, seconded by

02:14:33.899 --> 02:14:35.899
Alderman Klemm to suspend the rules.

02:14:35.899 --> 02:14:37.899
Again, suspension of the rules is two thirds majority

02:14:37.899 --> 02:14:39.899
and non-debatable.

02:14:39.899 --> 02:14:41.899
So, Madam Clerk, could you please take the role on the

02:14:41.899 --> 02:14:43.899
suspension only for settings hearing?

02:14:43.899 --> 02:14:45.899
Stacy. No.

02:14:45.899 --> 02:14:47.899
Shadle. Aye.

02:14:47.899 --> 02:14:49.899
Sanders. No.

02:14:49.899 --> 02:14:51.899
Sellers. Aye. Klemm. Aye.

02:14:51.899 --> 02:14:53.899
Monroe. Nope.

02:14:53.899 --> 02:14:55.899
Simmons. No.

02:14:55.899 --> 02:14:57.899
Parker. Aye.

02:14:57.899 --> 02:15:02.859
okay well then we will move this ordinance on to the next regularly scheduled meeting

02:15:05.500 --> 02:15:11.100
item number 16 is the first reading of ordinance 2025-24 could you please read this ordinance

02:15:11.100 --> 02:15:17.579
amending the codified ordinances chapter 806 alcoholic liquor sales and deleting chapter 844

02:15:17.579 --> 02:15:29.819
mechanical and electronic games and devices thank you attorney cox yeah so relatively nominal

02:15:29.819 --> 02:15:40.819
There's a suggestion from the Liquor Commission that the gaming fees provisions in 806, you'll see the changes on the chart there for the licensing fee.

02:15:40.819 --> 02:15:48.819
We currently charge $250 for an annual fee and then $250 per terminal for video gaming.

02:15:48.819 --> 02:15:55.819
The Liquor Commission is suggesting that we institute an issuance fee for new licenses that would only be paid once.

02:15:55.819 --> 02:16:02.020
Feebe paid once. Currently we have issuance fees for most tiers of licenses and then the

02:16:02.020 --> 02:16:09.260
annual fee be increased to $500 and then $500 per terminal. After some research at the Liquor

02:16:09.260 --> 02:16:15.380
Commission level, it was apparent that we're on the low end of the range for home rule

02:16:15.380 --> 02:16:22.260
communities. So moving it up to the $500 and $500 kind of brings us more towards the middle,

02:16:22.260 --> 02:16:27.859
something you would see certainly with the suburbs would charge much more.

02:16:27.859 --> 02:16:37.360
And then Chapter 844 is simply that it's being suggested that we remove Chapter 844 simply

02:16:37.360 --> 02:16:43.579
because that brings in probably around 100 bucks or 200 bucks of revenue a year and creates

02:16:43.579 --> 02:16:47.920
a lot of staff time in the clerk's office.

02:16:47.920 --> 02:16:52.840
There are very few establishments, and Debbie correct me if I'm wrong, but I think it's

02:16:52.840 --> 02:17:00.360
somewhere in the area of a handful of places that have this license where they actually

02:17:00.360 --> 02:17:01.520
pay a fee.

02:17:01.520 --> 02:17:04.840
We waive the fee if they also pay so we don't double dip.

02:17:04.840 --> 02:17:10.959
If you have a video gaming supplemental license, your fee is waived for mechanical gaming.

02:17:10.959 --> 02:17:15.159
So we create a bunch of work in the clerk's office and then don't collect any fees for

02:17:15.159 --> 02:17:16.159
it.

02:17:16.159 --> 02:17:21.040
is, I certainly remember, I'm sure most of you do,

02:17:21.040 --> 02:17:25.920
the reason for the mechanical gaming provisions

02:17:25.920 --> 02:17:28.600
in the first place were the arcades from the 80s and 90s.

02:17:28.600 --> 02:17:30.120
That's what those were intended for.

02:17:30.120 --> 02:17:31.760
Those weren't regulated by the state.

02:17:31.760 --> 02:17:35.000
They weren't, so you had all this local regulation.

02:17:35.000 --> 02:17:36.200
We don't have those anymore.

02:17:36.200 --> 02:17:39.040
Now we have video gaming and that's all regulated

02:17:39.040 --> 02:17:40.440
heavily by the state.

02:17:40.440 --> 02:17:45.440
So we regulate that locally, we charge fees on that.

02:17:46.159 --> 02:17:51.159
but we just are not dollars ahead on Chapter 844.

02:17:52.879 --> 02:17:56.700
So the recommendation is we just get rid of that.

02:17:56.700 --> 02:17:58.639
And I'm happy to answer any questions on any of that

02:17:58.639 --> 02:18:00.399
if anybody has them.

02:18:00.399 --> 02:18:03.040
I'll first entertain a motion to move this forward.

02:18:03.040 --> 02:18:03.879
So moved.

02:18:03.879 --> 02:18:04.840
Second.

02:18:04.840 --> 02:18:08.399
We have a motion made by Shadle, seconded by Sellers

02:18:08.399 --> 02:18:11.479
to move Ordinance 2025-24 forward.

02:18:11.479 --> 02:18:13.020
Questions for Attorney Cox.

02:18:14.399 --> 02:18:15.360
Alderman Sanders.

02:18:16.159 --> 02:18:25.719
Yeah you're requesting for the removal of the mechanical part of it. Is there a

02:18:25.719 --> 02:18:33.920
reason why you want that to be removed? Again it's the the chapter 844 mechanical

02:18:33.920 --> 02:18:40.920
gaming only applies to as Clark Anderson indicated. I think we have three of those

02:19:10.920 --> 02:19:16.200
thank you Alderman Monroe thank you madam mayor I'm gonna put this into you know

02:19:16.200 --> 02:19:21.440
normal speak if you will do away with 844 which was double dipping as you

02:19:21.440 --> 02:19:30.159
called it and and double the tax on the machines which is double dipping it's my

02:19:30.159 --> 02:19:34.639
boggling that we're gonna double the the rates

02:19:34.639 --> 02:20:02.000
the rates and increase of taxes generates $60,000 more in revenue and you know here we are again raising a tax on the citizens of Freeport and we've been doing that over and over and over again and we hide it in the water bill, we hide it in the tax on the machines, we hide it into every tax and you know at some point you have to draw the line and you say enough is enough.

02:20:02.000 --> 02:20:08.440
and the citizens of Freeport, a gentleman that was in here earlier is upset about having

02:20:08.440 --> 02:20:13.159
to pay an extra fee when he's already been paying city taxes on his property.

02:20:13.159 --> 02:20:19.559
So these types of things have got to be addressed in a more succinct manner and you just can't

02:20:19.559 --> 02:20:23.299
say, okay, well, we're going to do away with this, but we'll raise this fee.

02:20:23.299 --> 02:20:28.399
When this brought in $200, this brings in 60,000 and think you're doing the community

02:20:28.399 --> 02:20:29.399
good.

02:20:29.399 --> 02:20:30.399
You're helping two people.

02:20:30.399 --> 02:20:53.280
Anderson, who I agree, she probably needs the help along with her deputy. But $60,000 a year in increased fees, you know, you got to wonder how it's going to affect the businesses and the bars and everybody else that we're actually bringing additional tax dollars in on, on the beer and the, you know, every the food and everything else that they're serving.

02:20:53.280 --> 02:20:54.280
Miller.

02:20:54.280 --> 02:20:57.280
Did you want to say anything?

02:20:57.280 --> 02:21:00.399
Alderman Klemm.

02:21:00.399 --> 02:21:02.319
Yeah.

02:21:02.319 --> 02:21:04.799
That's not quite true, but it sounded real good.

02:21:04.799 --> 02:21:10.040
There isn't a person in the room here that has to go use a gaming machine.

02:21:10.040 --> 02:21:14.799
This has been through the Liquor Commission or been talked about, excuse me, in the Liquor

02:21:14.799 --> 02:21:19.159
Commission for about a year and a half or so.

02:21:19.159 --> 02:21:26.079
We found that we are completely, completely way under what other cities of our size are

02:21:26.079 --> 02:21:28.540
charging for these units.

02:21:28.540 --> 02:21:33.719
And if you take a look at the gaming board that you can go to and look at everybody's

02:21:33.719 --> 02:21:38.319
making a nickel, there isn't one of those people going broke and all that we're asking

02:21:38.319 --> 02:21:42.000
for is a little more fair share for the city.

02:21:42.000 --> 02:21:47.959
Thank you.

02:21:47.959 --> 02:21:48.959
No further discussion.

02:21:48.959 --> 02:21:54.959
And we will move this on to the next city council meeting. Thank you, Attorney Cox.

02:21:54.959 --> 02:22:00.959
Item number 17 is the adoption of resolution 2025-31. Could you please read this?

02:22:00.959 --> 02:22:10.270
Resolution ratifying agreement with United Diagnostic Service or UDS to provide firefighter health and safety screenings.

02:22:10.270 --> 02:22:12.270
Thank you, Deputy Chief.

02:22:12.270 --> 02:22:27.270
Yes, good evening Madam Mayor, Manager, Board, and Council members. Before you is a request for adoption ratifying an agreement with United Diagnostic Services, LLC, to provide firefighter and health safety screenings.

02:22:27.270 --> 02:22:28.270
Williams.

02:22:28.270 --> 02:22:32.069
This resolution was discussed at the March 10th Committee of the Whole meeting and was

02:22:32.069 --> 02:22:37.790
previously placed on the agenda for March 17th council meeting for adoption but was

02:22:37.790 --> 02:22:45.030
not able to be completed due to scheduling, completed before the scheduled date of the

02:22:45.030 --> 02:22:46.030
screenings.

02:22:46.030 --> 02:22:51.030
The screenings have since taken place and were provided to 45 members of the department.

02:22:51.030 --> 02:22:56.590
The dates of the screening were established on three consecutive days, March 20th, 21st,

02:22:56.590 --> 02:23:02.829
22nd. These screenings again utilized ultrasound and looked for conditions related to cancers,

02:23:04.350 --> 02:23:10.909
related to thyroid, liver, gallbladder, bladder, prostate, proper heart functioning, and assessment

02:23:10.909 --> 02:23:16.590
of the aorta and carotid arteries. These screenings have now established a baseline for our department

02:23:16.590 --> 02:23:22.750
and we hope to continue them, the recommended every two years. The cost of the screenings was

02:23:22.750 --> 02:23:23.750
Settlers.

02:23:23.750 --> 02:23:33.709
$14,625 is $325 per individual, and the full cost was covered by funding from the department's

02:23:33.709 --> 02:23:37.709
Foreign Fire Insurance Board fund.

02:23:37.709 --> 02:23:38.709
Thank you.

02:23:38.709 --> 02:23:39.709
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:23:39.709 --> 02:23:40.709
So moved.

02:23:40.709 --> 02:23:41.709
Second.

02:23:41.709 --> 02:23:46.670
A motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

02:23:46.670 --> 02:23:50.370
Discussion on this resolution?

02:23:50.370 --> 02:23:53.290
Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:23:53.290 --> 02:24:23.290
Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item number 18 is the adoption of resolution 2025-33. Could you please read this? Resolution authorizing execution and amendment of federal 5311 grant agreement for pretzel city area transit. Thank you, Director Duckman. Thank you, Madam Mayor. So item 18 and 19

02:24:23.290 --> 02:24:24.290
Huffines.

02:24:24.290 --> 02:24:31.850
We have a little discussion here.

02:24:31.850 --> 02:24:38.969
There's a four-step process for approving grants related to the Pretzel City area transit.

02:24:38.969 --> 02:24:44.149
So the first step, which has already been passed, is an ordinance which adopts the transportation

02:24:44.149 --> 02:24:47.750
services within Freeport and Stevenson County.

02:24:47.750 --> 02:24:52.409
The next step is a resolution authorizing an application to be made with the Office

02:24:52.409 --> 02:24:55.489
Fowler, and

02:24:55.489 --> 02:24:55.930
Dr.

02:24:55.930 --> 02:24:59.129
John

02:24:59.129 --> 02:24:59.530
Fowler.

02:24:59.530 --> 02:24:59.809
Thank you.

02:24:59.809 --> 02:25:00.170
Thank you.

02:25:00.170 --> 02:25:01.569
I wanted to

02:25:01.569 --> 02:25:03.010
mention that we're going to be

02:25:03.010 --> 02:25:05.389
having a special grant

02:25:05.389 --> 02:25:06.770
in the next few weeks.

02:25:06.770 --> 02:25:07.489
We're going to be

02:25:07.489 --> 02:25:08.489
having a special grant

02:25:08.489 --> 02:25:09.690
for the city of Freeport

02:25:09.690 --> 02:25:10.690
to be able to

02:25:10.690 --> 02:25:11.329
receive the

02:25:11.329 --> 02:25:12.489
application of the

02:25:12.489 --> 02:25:13.409
Intermortal Project

02:25:13.409 --> 02:25:14.209
implementation,

02:25:14.209 --> 02:25:15.450
which is IDOT,

02:25:15.450 --> 02:25:16.409
for financial

02:25:16.409 --> 02:25:17.610
assistance under

02:25:17.610 --> 02:25:18.850
the two grants.

02:25:18.850 --> 02:25:19.770
And that's what we're

02:25:19.770 --> 02:25:20.649
talking about in

02:25:20.649 --> 02:25:21.489
this particular

02:25:21.489 --> 02:25:25.930
there's several steps that are laid out for us to successfully operate our

02:25:25.930 --> 02:25:31.610
pretzel city area transit program so in this step staff is recommending resolution

02:25:31.610 --> 02:25:36.290
authorizing an application to be made for these grant applications thank you is

02:25:36.290 --> 02:25:42.889
there a motion to adopt so move second motion made by Alderman Clem seconded by

02:25:42.889 --> 02:25:49.530
Alderman Sellers discussion on the adoption Alderman Sanders oh yeah well I

02:25:49.530 --> 02:25:57.209
I really don't want to inject because it's such a valuable tool and I just

02:25:57.209 --> 02:26:05.049
wanted to commend you for getting involved in this with the grant processing

02:26:05.049 --> 02:26:12.049
and that it is so much needed for those that are unfortunate to be able to be

02:26:12.049 --> 02:26:18.809
mobile as accessible that they like to be and so yeah just keep up the good

02:26:18.809 --> 02:26:48.809
I appreciate that, but I do want to thank Sadie Grande. She's our transportation planner. She's done a great job with this program, keeping everything on track, and also Director Richter does a great job helping us as well. There's a large amount of financial work involved helping this program keep going, but the support of Council is greatly appreciated. Thank you very much. Any other discussion?

02:26:48.809 --> 02:26:50.610
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:26:52.450 --> 02:26:53.850
Stacy?

02:26:53.850 --> 02:26:54.690
Aye.

02:26:54.690 --> 02:26:55.510
Shadle?

02:26:55.510 --> 02:26:56.350
Aye.

02:26:56.350 --> 02:26:57.190
Sanders?

02:26:57.190 --> 02:26:58.010
Aye.

02:26:58.010 --> 02:26:58.850
Sellers?

02:26:58.850 --> 02:26:59.690
Aye.

02:26:59.690 --> 02:27:00.510
Klemm?

02:27:00.510 --> 02:27:01.350
Aye.

02:27:01.350 --> 02:27:02.190
Monroe?

02:27:02.190 --> 02:27:03.010
Aye.

02:27:03.010 --> 02:27:03.850
Simmons?

02:27:03.850 --> 02:27:04.690
Aye.

02:27:04.690 --> 02:27:05.510
And Parker?

02:27:05.510 --> 02:27:06.350
Aye.

02:27:06.350 --> 02:27:07.190
The resolution is adopted eight to zero.

02:27:07.190 --> 02:27:09.409
Item number 19 is the adoption of resolution 2025-34.

02:27:09.409 --> 02:27:11.389
Could you please read this?

02:27:11.389 --> 02:27:13.549
Resolution accepting the special warranty

02:27:13.549 --> 02:27:15.170
for public transportation funding

02:27:15.170 --> 02:27:16.809
for the federal 53-11 grant

02:27:16.809 --> 02:27:20.209
for Pretzel City Area Transit.

02:27:20.209 --> 02:27:21.170
Director Duckman.

02:27:21.170 --> 02:27:22.049
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

02:27:22.049 --> 02:27:25.450
So as promised earlier, this is the subsequent resolution

02:27:25.450 --> 02:27:27.110
that would accept the special warranty

02:27:27.110 --> 02:27:29.530
for public transportation funding.

02:27:29.530 --> 02:27:32.489
This affirms that transit employees will be treated fairly

02:27:32.489 --> 02:27:35.569
and equitably under the terms of the warranty.

02:27:35.569 --> 02:27:39.010
So in line with this, staff is recommending approval

02:27:39.010 --> 02:27:40.149
of this resolution.

02:27:41.569 --> 02:27:43.170
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:27:43.170 --> 02:27:44.010
So moved.

02:27:44.010 --> 02:27:48.760
Second.

02:27:48.760 --> 02:27:50.280
We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm.

02:27:50.280 --> 02:27:53.079
seconded by Alderman Sellers.

02:27:53.079 --> 02:27:57.969
Discussion on this resolution.

02:27:57.969 --> 02:27:59.510
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:27:59.510 --> 02:28:00.350
Stacy?

02:28:00.350 --> 02:28:01.190
Aye.

02:28:01.190 --> 02:28:02.010
Shadle?

02:28:02.010 --> 02:28:02.850
Aye.

02:28:02.850 --> 02:28:03.690
Sanders?

02:28:03.690 --> 02:28:04.510
Aye.

02:28:04.510 --> 02:28:05.350
Sellers?

02:28:05.350 --> 02:28:06.190
Aye.

02:28:06.190 --> 02:28:07.010
Klemm?

02:28:07.010 --> 02:28:07.850
Aye.

02:28:07.850 --> 02:28:08.670
Monroe?

02:28:08.670 --> 02:28:09.510
Aye.

02:28:09.510 --> 02:28:10.350
Simmons?

02:28:10.350 --> 02:28:11.190
Aye.

02:28:11.190 --> 02:28:12.010
And Parker?

02:28:12.010 --> 02:28:12.850
Aye.

02:28:12.850 --> 02:28:13.690
The resolution is adopted, eight to zero.

02:28:13.690 --> 02:28:16.190
Item number 20 is the adoption of resolution 2025-35.

02:28:16.190 --> 02:28:18.030
Could you please read this?

02:28:18.030 --> 02:28:20.510
Resolution adopting a certificate of authority

02:28:20.510 --> 02:28:24.309
to vote regarding Rock Salt contract joint participation agreement with the state of

02:28:24.309 --> 02:28:25.309
Illinois.

02:28:25.309 --> 02:28:26.309
Thank you.

02:28:26.309 --> 02:28:27.309
Manager Boyer.

02:28:27.309 --> 02:28:28.309
Thank you, your honor.

02:28:28.309 --> 02:28:32.270
The city of Freeport buys Rock Salt for snow removal operations every year.

02:28:32.270 --> 02:28:38.469
We are part of the state bid and they've made some changes so we need to approve things

02:28:38.469 --> 02:28:40.590
a little earlier than in the past.

02:28:40.590 --> 02:28:45.790
So staff requests council move forward with this joint participation agreement so that

02:28:45.790 --> 02:28:49.829
Freeport can become part of the state Rock Salt program.

02:28:49.829 --> 02:29:03.829
Is there a motion to adopt? Motion to approve. Second. Shadle? We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the resolution? Alderman Sanders?

02:29:03.829 --> 02:29:16.790
Yeah, Manager Boyer, looking at the rock salt, we're just finalizing some roads that we're

02:29:16.790 --> 02:29:25.229
just installing, and my question is, which we know that salt rock can be very, very destructive

02:29:25.229 --> 02:29:31.989
on roads, and especially on new roads, that have not settled within the front line.

02:29:31.989 --> 02:29:37.280
So, I'm going to go back to the framework that we got everything placed on the surface.

02:29:37.280 --> 02:29:45.360
My thing is, my question would be is, is there any other resources or source that is more

02:29:45.360 --> 02:29:56.120
gentle on roads and still be able to be effective for the snow conditions and the road condition?

02:29:56.120 --> 02:30:00.879
I don't know if it's if they had that or not if they're going to cost us we I like

02:30:00.879 --> 02:30:05.840
to hear the difference between the comparisons and things of that nature.

02:30:05.840 --> 02:30:11.680
Just to answer your question I think there's nothing more cost-effective per

02:30:11.680 --> 02:30:17.959
ton and then rock salt obviously the city used sand for a number of years sand

02:30:17.959 --> 02:30:21.760
plugs up the stormwater system we end up having a lot more maintenance doing that

02:30:21.760 --> 02:30:25.440
and there's some other melt products out there but they're far more expensive

02:30:25.440 --> 02:30:28.559
and Rock Salt. So I hope that answers your question.

02:30:28.559 --> 02:30:31.680
Yeah, it did. It did.

02:30:31.680 --> 02:30:34.799
If there's no further discussion, Alderman Stacey.

02:30:34.799 --> 02:30:38.200
What does joint participation consist of?

02:30:38.200 --> 02:30:40.479
It's essentially the commitment to the city

02:30:40.479 --> 02:30:44.840
to work with the state on this Rock Salt program in the past.

02:30:44.840 --> 02:30:46.079
We essentially order it.

02:30:46.079 --> 02:30:47.680
And what's happened is some communities

02:30:47.680 --> 02:30:49.239
that didn't need it backed out.

02:30:49.239 --> 02:30:51.079
So they're adding this change so that they

02:30:51.079 --> 02:30:53.440
can make sure that everybody who participates

02:30:53.440 --> 02:30:54.440
Huffines.

02:30:54.440 --> 02:30:55.440
Thank you.

02:30:55.440 --> 02:30:56.440
Thank you.

02:30:56.440 --> 02:30:57.440
Thank you.

02:30:57.440 --> 02:31:02.440
in the last few years with people not taking the salt that they promised to take.

02:31:02.440 --> 02:31:06.440
Is it a cost for this contract to be a part of this organization?

02:31:06.440 --> 02:31:12.440
No, it's just a commitment to the state that we'll be buying 300 ton or whatever we order

02:31:12.440 --> 02:31:16.440
and then we will pay for that. I think there was an issue with some of the communities

02:31:16.440 --> 02:31:18.440
just trying to back out at the last minute.

02:31:18.440 --> 02:31:24.440
And so if we don't use all that we order or all that we commit to, we have some place to store it?

02:31:24.440 --> 02:31:30.920
that's correct for the most part we we use everything we order it's hard

02:31:30.920 --> 02:31:35.639
sometimes to to guess because it all depends on the weather but we've been

02:31:35.639 --> 02:31:42.219
somewhere in the 300 ton range for some time there's no further discussion

02:31:42.219 --> 02:31:53.819
Stacey, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Monroe, Simmons, and Parker

02:31:53.819 --> 02:32:00.340
the resolution is adopted 8 to 0 and item number 21 is the adoption of

02:32:00.340 --> 02:32:05.219
resolution 2025 36 could you please read this resolution ratifying emergency

02:32:05.219 --> 02:32:08.420
repairs of a blower at the city's wastewater treatment plant by per

02:32:08.420 --> 02:32:15.579
precision drive control thank your honor recently we had a failure bearing

02:32:15.579 --> 02:32:21.180
failure on one of our large blowers that services the bath building or the

02:32:21.180 --> 02:32:24.459
Biologically Activated, I'm sorry, the Biological Air

02:32:24.459 --> 02:32:26.260
Filtration System.

02:32:26.260 --> 02:32:29.100
So this particular project to have it rebuilt

02:32:29.100 --> 02:32:31.100
is about $17,000.

02:32:31.100 --> 02:32:34.180
That's compared to $41,000 to replace it.

02:32:34.180 --> 02:32:36.020
So we're repairing it.

02:32:36.020 --> 02:32:38.100
And staff is asking city council just

02:32:38.100 --> 02:32:42.059
to ratify this emergency equipment repair.

02:32:42.059 --> 02:32:44.579
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:32:44.579 --> 02:32:45.620
Second.

02:32:45.620 --> 02:32:47.260
We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm,

02:32:47.260 --> 02:32:49.340
seconded by Alderman Shadle.

02:32:49.340 --> 02:32:52.850
discussion on this resolution.

02:32:52.850 --> 02:32:54.049
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:32:54.049 --> 02:32:59.219
Stacy?

02:32:59.219 --> 02:33:01.079
Can I ask a question?

02:33:01.079 --> 02:33:02.020
Sure.

02:33:02.020 --> 02:33:04.899
How old is this blower?

02:33:04.899 --> 02:33:05.459
Oh, gosh.

02:33:05.459 --> 02:33:09.020
I, 20 years old.

02:33:09.020 --> 02:33:16.700
Yeah, it's about, they did that in 2000, so 25 years old.

02:33:16.700 --> 02:33:17.260
Shadle?

02:33:17.260 --> 02:33:17.819
Aye.

02:33:17.819 --> 02:33:18.620
Sanders?

02:33:18.620 --> 02:33:19.059
Aye.

02:33:19.059 --> 02:33:19.620
Sellers?

02:33:19.620 --> 02:33:20.260
Aye.

02:33:20.260 --> 02:33:20.819
Klemm?

02:33:20.819 --> 02:33:21.299
Aye.

02:33:21.299 --> 02:33:21.940
Monroe?

02:33:21.940 --> 02:33:22.940
Abstain.

02:33:22.940 --> 02:33:23.860
Simmons?

02:33:23.860 --> 02:33:25.620
Aye.

02:33:25.620 --> 02:33:26.540
And Parker?

02:33:26.540 --> 02:33:27.860
Aye.

02:33:27.860 --> 02:33:30.219
Seven to zero with one abstentia.

02:33:30.219 --> 02:33:33.100
The resolution is adopted.

02:33:33.100 --> 02:33:36.420
Item number 22 is the adoption of resolution 2025-37.

02:33:36.420 --> 02:33:38.020
Could you please read this?

02:33:38.020 --> 02:33:40.860
Resolution approving the purchase of street light fixtures

02:33:40.860 --> 02:33:43.860
from Electrical Resource Management.

02:33:43.860 --> 02:33:44.979
Manager Boyer?

02:33:44.979 --> 02:33:45.899
Thank you, Your Honor.

02:33:45.899 --> 02:33:48.260
The city of Freeport has an annual maintenance agreement

02:33:48.260 --> 02:33:51.139
for the traffic signals and street lights in I-DOT

02:33:51.139 --> 02:33:51.979
corridors.

02:33:51.979 --> 02:33:54.360
Many of the street lights on top of the traffic signals

02:33:54.360 --> 02:33:57.159
are failing due to age and require replacement.

02:33:57.159 --> 02:34:00.440
Parts of the incandescent lights are more complicated to find

02:34:00.440 --> 02:34:01.520
and expensive.

02:34:01.520 --> 02:34:04.959
And the city staff submitted a grant proposal to ComEd

02:34:04.959 --> 02:34:10.120
and was awarded $20,000 toward the 70 light replacement project,

02:34:10.120 --> 02:34:13.920
which includes changing to LEDs.

02:34:13.920 --> 02:34:19.239
Each light will be 252 watts, as requested by IDOT specification.

02:34:19.239 --> 02:34:22.659
And the city needs to replace 70 of these aging street lights,

02:34:22.659 --> 02:34:30.860
and others, which are metal halide, that are still dim and failing in the IDOT corridors.

02:34:30.860 --> 02:34:34.280
We're talking primarily about West Street, Galena and South Street.

02:34:34.280 --> 02:34:37.819
As part of the maintenance agreement, the project was planned for 25 due to the large

02:34:37.819 --> 02:34:40.659
number of lights that are experiencing issues.

02:34:40.659 --> 02:34:45.860
The city crews can self-perform these installations to these lights as the signals have power

02:34:45.860 --> 02:34:48.860
shut off that are accessible to staff.

02:34:48.860 --> 02:34:53.379
Works Department can charge IDOT for our installation.

02:34:53.379 --> 02:34:56.700
The costs include traffic controls that are needed.

02:34:56.700 --> 02:35:00.340
Each intersection area has a varying allowable percentage

02:35:00.340 --> 02:35:03.979
of established replacement in cost share

02:35:03.979 --> 02:35:07.260
on the schedule between 30% and 100%.

02:35:07.260 --> 02:35:10.540
And that's per our maintenance agreement with IDOT.

02:35:10.540 --> 02:35:12.540
This is a quick hitting project that

02:35:12.540 --> 02:35:15.780
must be completed by June of 2025.

02:35:15.780 --> 02:35:17.700
And that is primarily due to the fact

02:35:17.700 --> 02:35:47.700
We are working with that ComEd grant. So the project cost for the fixtures are currently estimated to be less than $10,000. It will cost the city less than $10,000 after the ComEd grant and the IDOT share of reimbursement are completed and the City Street Department budgeted $20,000 for street lights in 2025. $10,000 was anticipated to fund this project. However, please note the city has spent $23,000 on the new crime reduction lighting recently. So staff recommends moving

02:35:47.700 --> 02:35:49.819
Moving forward.

02:35:49.819 --> 02:35:51.260
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:35:51.260 --> 02:35:52.139
So move.

02:35:52.139 --> 02:35:53.620
Second.

02:35:53.620 --> 02:35:55.540
Is there a motion made by Alderman Sellers,

02:35:55.540 --> 02:35:57.340
seconded by Alderman Shadle?

02:35:57.340 --> 02:35:59.540
Discussion?

02:35:59.540 --> 02:36:01.260
Alderman Sanders.

02:36:01.260 --> 02:36:03.459
Yeah.

02:36:03.459 --> 02:36:06.899
This will be a contract, even though a grant

02:36:06.899 --> 02:36:09.540
is being presented.

02:36:09.540 --> 02:36:13.020
We'll be contracting this out if we are awarded the grant.

02:36:13.020 --> 02:36:13.940
How does that work?

02:36:13.940 --> 02:36:17.100
No, the staff is going to reduce the cost

02:36:17.100 --> 02:36:29.100
We're going to do the in-house. We're going to do it in-house. We have our own, what I want to say, skill guys that can go out and do this work.

02:36:29.100 --> 02:36:36.100
We do. We have a lot of projects to be working on all the time, but this one is really necessary and it's a good use of our time.

02:36:36.100 --> 02:36:39.100
So would that cover all of the street lights throughout the city?

02:36:39.100 --> 02:36:45.500
No. No. The map that's included with your agenda is the back page and it's including

02:36:45.500 --> 02:36:51.500
Galena and parts of South Street and West Street where we have failed fixtures. We're

02:36:51.500 --> 02:36:55.319
going to have to fix them anyway. We just want to use other people's money to help us

02:36:55.319 --> 02:37:01.479
do it. Right, right, right, right. I got you. Okay.

02:37:01.479 --> 02:37:08.440
Alderperson Stacey, you have the floor. Okay. So did you say there's 17 of them?

02:37:08.440 --> 02:37:19.159
70. 70. 70 of them. And we're getting 20,000 from ComEd and IDOT?

02:37:19.159 --> 02:37:23.959
Yeah, we'll get approximately 20,000 from ComEd, and then I think IDOT's a cost share

02:37:23.959 --> 02:37:26.280
depending on the cost of each intersection.

02:37:26.280 --> 02:37:32.559
So the total project's around 40,000. We should get a little over 20,000 from ComEd. If we

02:37:32.559 --> 02:37:37.819
we can complete by June. There's a little bit of a, they call it a kickstart bonus.

02:37:37.819 --> 02:37:43.420
And then we can cost share the rest through our IDOT maintenance agreement. So our, our

02:37:43.420 --> 02:37:47.079
public work staff will keep track of their time and materials and we'll be able to build

02:37:47.079 --> 02:37:51.639
that out to IDOT each intersection in Freeport. So these are the lights that are on top of

02:37:51.639 --> 02:37:57.799
the traffic signals. Each one of them in town has a different cost center. So one intersection

02:37:57.799 --> 02:38:21.520
might be 30%, the next one might be 50, and the next one might be 100. We have an Excel spreadsheet that shows that. So we can take our hours, and let's say, just for simple math, we had $100 to put this intersection in, or $1,000, and it's a 30%, so we can bill them $300 of our time, and we get to mark our time up like we're a contractor. So it's a good benefit to us.

02:38:21.879 --> 02:38:24.559
Okay, so how much is this going to cost the city?

02:38:24.559 --> 02:38:30.079
It will be less than $10,000. I can't gauge that until we have the time to put it up, but

02:38:30.879 --> 02:38:37.760
we'll get 20 from ComEd and we should be able to bill out of the remaining 20 at least 10 if not 15 to IDOT.

02:38:37.760 --> 02:38:44.719
And this is coming out our original, this 10 or less is coming out our original streetlight fund?

02:38:45.520 --> 02:38:47.920
That was the plan in the budget.

02:38:48.879 --> 02:38:50.239
It's the plan.

02:38:50.239 --> 02:38:51.120
Alderman Sanders?

02:38:51.120 --> 02:39:02.340
Yeah, do we have the manpower to get this in at a time period where we do not have to

02:39:02.340 --> 02:39:09.600
pay for any additional costs because of late installments?

02:39:09.600 --> 02:39:10.600
We do.

02:39:10.600 --> 02:39:15.239
I talked to the public works superintendent, the street superintendent, and he said that

02:39:15.239 --> 02:39:17.180
they'll make time to get it done.

02:39:17.180 --> 02:39:21.559
Even if we went into overtime ranges to get it done, we can build the overtime out because

02:39:21.559 --> 02:39:25.000
our guys don't make the same as what union contractors do, so we'll be able to build

02:39:25.000 --> 02:39:27.799
that out just like we normally would in our wages.

02:39:27.799 --> 02:39:30.000
So, speaking...

02:39:30.000 --> 02:39:32.680
Speaking with him, we are a little short-staffed at the moment.

02:39:32.680 --> 02:39:36.799
We had a couple turnover positions, but he's committed to get the resources to get it done

02:39:36.799 --> 02:39:40.159
to get the grant because we don't have another way to pay for the lights.

02:39:40.159 --> 02:39:45.079
And we are, we were, we're spending more than $10,000 a year trying to fix these lights

02:39:45.079 --> 02:39:48.520
with parts and pieces that are just not acceptable anymore.

02:39:48.520 --> 02:39:52.000
These are, they're called seven-pin lights, so they unbolt.

02:39:52.000 --> 02:39:55.719
You shut the electric down, you unbolt them, you slide them on, bolt them back up, test

02:39:55.719 --> 02:39:56.719
the power.

02:39:56.719 --> 02:40:01.940
it's a relatively simple process outside of traffic control and our

02:40:01.940 --> 02:40:05.780
equipment which is the bucket truck that we already own. Okay, thanks.

02:40:05.780 --> 02:40:22.030
Ms. Stacy? Director Darin, I am a little concerned using our streetlight money on

02:40:22.030 --> 02:40:34.149
on that project because of the amount of areas we still need to fix.

02:40:34.149 --> 02:40:43.909
And there's money available for our streetlights and polls where there's not money available

02:40:43.909 --> 02:40:46.110
for our streetlights.

02:40:46.110 --> 02:40:47.549
Am I making sense?

02:40:47.549 --> 02:40:50.190
I think I understand what you're saying.

02:40:50.190 --> 02:40:57.030
I think you're talking about more money for exchanging more crime-ridden area lights,

02:40:57.030 --> 02:40:58.030
right?

02:40:58.030 --> 02:40:59.030
Yes.

02:40:59.030 --> 02:41:00.030
Yeah.

02:41:00.030 --> 02:41:02.709
But there's no funding out there for us with that.

02:41:02.709 --> 02:41:03.709
No.

02:41:03.709 --> 02:41:04.709
Uh-uh.

02:41:04.709 --> 02:41:08.190
And is there some more funding we can go after for?

02:41:08.190 --> 02:41:12.909
We can reapply next year for the select communities grant.

02:41:12.909 --> 02:41:16.549
This is the select or whatever the heck they're calling it this day.

02:41:16.549 --> 02:41:18.909
That is what this grant is.

02:41:18.909 --> 02:41:23.590
That's the $20,000 that's coming from ComEd for it.

02:41:23.590 --> 02:41:29.190
We can continue on the light exchanges, but as I told you before, those are going to be

02:41:29.190 --> 02:41:34.149
roughly about $400 a piece installed, and we can order as many of them as we want as

02:41:34.149 --> 02:41:35.350
council approves.

02:41:35.350 --> 02:41:38.149
It's just we have to find a funding source for that if we're going to continue to do

02:41:38.149 --> 02:41:39.149
it.

02:41:39.149 --> 02:41:40.149
Exactly.

02:41:40.149 --> 02:41:41.149
Yep.

02:41:41.149 --> 02:41:43.389
So do we have to do all 70 of them at once?

02:41:43.389 --> 02:41:50.270
So the issue is we applied for them all at once to make it advantageous for ComEd to

02:41:50.270 --> 02:41:55.950
help us fund it and we're having issues on most of the lights and if you went around town

02:41:55.950 --> 02:42:00.350
right now and you looked in the I-DOT corridors, the lights that are up there are not the right

02:42:00.350 --> 02:42:04.709
size wattage right now because we just tried to fill them in with something that we had

02:42:04.709 --> 02:42:08.450
on hand because we couldn't afford to go buy the new light replacements.

02:42:08.450 --> 02:42:13.889
So I would say at this time, we're not going to get a better deal to do this in the future.

02:42:13.889 --> 02:42:18.549
These lights should last per their warranty at least 10 years of life.

02:42:18.549 --> 02:42:23.250
So it's a longevity and it will help us in the future because we'll have less maintenance

02:42:23.250 --> 02:42:27.610
cost in the I-DOT corridors because they actually pay us annually to maintain these as part

02:42:27.610 --> 02:42:32.969
of our, it's about $238,000 we get from them.

02:42:32.969 --> 02:42:44.969
Okay, so long as the rest of the council understand that 10,000 of that money, for those who wanted more than Fifth Ward,

02:42:47.969 --> 02:43:00.889
10,000 of that kitty is going to have to go to this project, which is going to limit what we could do for the rest of the year.

02:43:00.889 --> 02:43:06.889
yeah I you guys get to decide what you want to do I was just stating that when

02:43:06.889 --> 02:43:11.690
Rob and I and the street department worked on the budget we had set ten

02:43:11.690 --> 02:43:16.489
thousand in that budget for this project because we we knew that we're we're

02:43:16.489 --> 02:43:20.030
having a tough time repairing them with public works even just getting the

02:43:20.030 --> 02:43:28.790
materials anymore is difficult any other discussion so we're getting

02:43:28.790 --> 02:43:32.790
twenty thousand dollars from ComEd correct yes and then we just have to put

02:43:32.790 --> 02:43:35.790
and the 10 with it to take care of.

02:43:35.790 --> 02:43:37.370
And then IDOT is given what?

02:43:38.389 --> 02:43:40.110
IDOT will reimburse us.

02:43:40.110 --> 02:43:43.829
So again, my example is if we had $1,000

02:43:43.829 --> 02:43:46.670
for a four-legged intersection to change the lights,

02:43:47.709 --> 02:43:49.190
depending on the intersection,

02:43:49.190 --> 02:43:50.030
because every one of them

02:43:50.030 --> 02:43:51.629
has a different reimbursement amount.

02:43:51.629 --> 02:43:53.750
Some of them are 30%, some of them are 50,

02:43:53.750 --> 02:43:56.069
some of them are 70, it depends.

02:43:56.069 --> 02:43:59.510
We can bill them for the city's time and material,

02:43:59.510 --> 02:44:00.790
just like we're a contractor,

02:44:00.790 --> 02:44:03.309
to get that additional $20,000.

02:44:03.309 --> 02:44:06.469
It might get down to $5,000 by the time we're done.

02:44:06.469 --> 02:44:09.389
I can't predict how much it's going to take to get it done.

02:44:09.389 --> 02:44:11.110
Remember, these are an IDOT corridor,

02:44:11.110 --> 02:44:12.829
so we have to have full traffic control.

02:44:12.829 --> 02:44:15.309
So we're going to have to have four to five guys out doing

02:44:15.309 --> 02:44:19.899
these to get them replaced.

02:44:19.899 --> 02:44:21.860
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk,

02:44:21.860 --> 02:44:22.700
please take the roll.

02:44:22.700 --> 02:44:24.899
Stacy?

02:44:24.899 --> 02:44:25.500
Shadle?

02:44:25.500 --> 02:44:26.139
Aye.

02:44:26.139 --> 02:44:27.659
Sanders?

02:44:27.659 --> 02:44:28.620
Is absent.

02:44:28.620 --> 02:44:29.340
Sellers?

02:44:29.340 --> 02:44:30.620
Aye.

02:44:30.620 --> 02:44:31.299
Klemm?

02:44:31.299 --> 02:44:32.459
Aye.

02:44:32.459 --> 02:44:33.139
Monroe?

02:44:33.139 --> 02:44:42.950
Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted, 7-0. Item number 23 is the adoption

02:44:42.950 --> 02:44:48.549
of resolution 2025-38. Could you please read this? Resolution authorizing a letter of commitment

02:44:48.549 --> 02:44:53.870
to the Interstate Renewable Energy Council to become a charging smart designated community.

02:44:53.870 --> 02:45:06.030
So we were contacted last month by Region 1 out of Rockford.

02:45:06.030 --> 02:45:13.149
They're a community development resource and they asked us if the city of Freeport was interested

02:45:13.149 --> 02:45:17.870
in becoming a Charging Smart designated community.

02:45:17.870 --> 02:45:22.690
The program is 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.

02:45:22.690 --> 02:45:28.569
Smart is committed to transforming the transportation system in ways that positively benefit the

02:45:28.569 --> 02:45:34.010
environment, the economy through access to charging infrastructure. Really the discussion

02:45:34.010 --> 02:45:41.350
is they're asking us to be part of the program. There is no financials for it. Their team

02:45:41.350 --> 02:45:49.049
will help us develop codes, ordinances, and technical assistance on providing charging

02:45:49.049 --> 02:45:50.049
Fowler.

02:45:50.049 --> 02:45:53.129
We're going to be working with the city of Freeport, whether it be city of Freeport or

02:45:53.129 --> 02:45:58.370
private development, they'll even help us with code resources for homes.

02:45:58.370 --> 02:46:01.729
Something that we've talked about at the council level, most of these charging units that are

02:46:01.729 --> 02:46:06.370
in people's homes are the equivalent of four households, so it could put quite a strain

02:46:06.370 --> 02:46:11.090
on our network of infrastructure as they come on.

02:46:11.090 --> 02:46:16.110
We all know that the state and federal governments are pushing them with rebates, and so eventually

02:46:16.110 --> 02:46:18.489
we will see more.

02:46:18.489 --> 02:46:24.090
There's another item on here talking about EV chargers. This one particularly is just

02:46:24.090 --> 02:46:29.129
helping us establish codes and ordinances and some baseline for the City of Freeport

02:46:29.129 --> 02:46:34.809
because while if we become charge smart or not, we're still going to have people that

02:46:34.809 --> 02:46:38.250
want to have charged cars in this community that we're going to have to deal with. And

02:46:38.250 --> 02:46:43.590
right now we really don't have anything on the books for it. So again, there's no financial

02:46:43.590 --> 02:46:47.590
and we're recommending that this would be the time that we would move forward being

02:46:47.590 --> 02:46:48.590
Settlers.

02:46:48.590 --> 02:46:52.909
The only investment is staff time to help work with them to get the codes and ordinances

02:46:52.909 --> 02:46:56.149
in place that would come to you guys for final approval.

02:46:56.149 --> 02:46:57.909
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:46:57.909 --> 02:46:58.909
So moved.

02:46:58.909 --> 02:46:59.909
Second.

02:46:59.909 --> 02:47:03.149
A motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

02:47:03.149 --> 02:47:04.149
Discussion on the resolution?

02:47:04.149 --> 02:47:05.149
Alderman Monroe?

02:47:05.149 --> 02:47:08.629
No, it's, thank you, Darren.

02:47:08.629 --> 02:47:15.629
You know, I think the question I've got is as we scroll down to item number 27, resolution

02:47:15.629 --> 02:47:17.629
and

02:47:18.750 --> 02:47:20.629
the

02:47:20.629 --> 02:47:23.629
E.V. Charging Station. There actually are charges associated

02:47:23.629 --> 02:47:27.629
with where we're going with this. Is that correct?

02:47:27.629 --> 02:47:32.629
There's grants with that. And we, if we move forward 27, I

02:47:32.629 --> 02:47:35.629
don't want to skip too far ahead, but those will be paid

02:47:35.629 --> 02:47:40.629
for charging there. They won't be free chargers. But these are

02:47:40.629 --> 02:47:47.750
We're just establishing the best practices to be a charging community.

02:47:47.750 --> 02:47:48.750
Director Duckman?

02:47:48.750 --> 02:47:53.510
I did want to add, too, because I was put in the email chain with Region 1.

02:47:53.510 --> 02:47:57.909
It looks, because they're both talking about charging, they look similar.

02:47:57.909 --> 02:48:02.309
They could be connected, but honestly what happened was is Isaac Guerrero is their community

02:48:02.309 --> 02:48:06.790
development director and services director in Region 1.

02:48:06.790 --> 02:48:09.889
He reached out to us and said, hey, this is an opportunity.

02:48:09.889 --> 02:48:10.889
Sanders.

02:48:10.889 --> 02:48:15.170
We're reaching out to all communities, looking for support to become a charge smart community

02:48:15.170 --> 02:48:19.569
and then that would help us down the road if we wanted to apply for grants, they would

02:48:19.569 --> 02:48:25.149
essentially help, we'd essentially be getting their help down the road.

02:48:25.149 --> 02:48:33.030
So while they look similar, they are different items.

02:48:33.030 --> 02:48:36.030
Thank you.

02:48:36.030 --> 02:48:56.709
I was looking at this and I had a chance to kind of like evaluate what this is talking about and I understand you like to change them out, do away with them because they're not available parts and things of this nature.

02:48:56.709 --> 02:49:01.389
have we decided, am I on the wrong subject?

02:49:01.389 --> 02:49:02.229
This is not-

02:49:02.229 --> 02:49:04.350
You can move to 23 honey.

02:49:04.350 --> 02:49:08.590
Oh, 23, okay, I was in the management room.

02:49:08.590 --> 02:49:11.750
Okay, sorry about that.

02:49:11.750 --> 02:49:16.750
Yes, okay, so I understand that there's 0% funded,

02:49:20.030 --> 02:49:22.670
no financials currently,

02:49:22.670 --> 02:49:27.670
But as codes and updates come and is needed

02:49:27.670 --> 02:49:32.680
come and is needed I mean we could get it free this year and next year it cost us

02:49:32.680 --> 02:49:41.440
$10,000 to upgrade everything to be active and powerful. Not in this program

02:49:41.440 --> 02:49:45.440
it would not cost us anything and there would be no required updates to the

02:49:45.440 --> 02:49:49.180
solar ordinances unless the council felt that that was necessary this is

02:49:49.180 --> 02:49:57.139
is just trying to make sure that we get some guidance and some expertise helping us make

02:49:57.139 --> 02:50:01.920
sure that we're doing the right codes and ordinances originally to get this section

02:50:01.920 --> 02:50:02.920
set up.

02:50:02.920 --> 02:50:08.100
Most communities don't have charging codes or ordinances established, so they're trying

02:50:08.100 --> 02:50:10.139
to help communities.

02:50:10.139 --> 02:50:12.059
That's why it's funded by the Department of Energy.

02:50:12.059 --> 02:50:15.579
But it will, it won't ever cost us anything?

02:50:15.579 --> 02:50:16.579
Should not, nope.

02:50:16.579 --> 02:50:20.500
and if it would come back to where it would cost money we could opt out of it at that

02:50:20.500 --> 02:50:26.520
point but the only time when I talked to them and we had meetings the only thing is the

02:50:26.520 --> 02:50:30.020
investment of our time to work with them.

02:50:30.020 --> 02:50:31.500
What is the demand?

02:50:31.500 --> 02:50:39.059
How great of a demand is it here in Freeport with electric cars?

02:50:39.059 --> 02:50:45.180
So I don't have a ton of experience with it but I do know that we get calls frequently

02:50:45.180 --> 02:50:48.700
if not weekly for people looking for places to charge.

02:50:48.700 --> 02:50:51.979
I believe right now there's one or two spots in Freeport

02:50:51.979 --> 02:50:53.899
that they can charge, which is I believe

02:50:53.899 --> 02:50:55.940
at the Ford dealership and at the Chevy dealership.

02:50:55.940 --> 02:50:58.180
Those are the only two that I'm aware of right now.

02:50:58.180 --> 02:51:01.459
There's probably some people that have EV cars

02:51:01.459 --> 02:51:04.219
that may or may not have a charger in their house already

02:51:04.219 --> 02:51:05.940
that we wouldn't be aware of

02:51:05.940 --> 02:51:07.159
because we don't have any ordinance

02:51:07.159 --> 02:51:08.659
that says they have to tell us.

02:51:11.319 --> 02:51:16.319
Can we move this to the COW until we find out

02:51:16.559 --> 02:51:17.559
Fowler.

02:51:17.559 --> 02:51:18.559
Thank you.

02:51:18.559 --> 02:51:23.760
I just want to ask about more information pertaining to how many people or the number,

02:51:23.760 --> 02:51:27.600
the need.

02:51:27.600 --> 02:51:28.600
Certainly can move into the cow.

02:51:28.600 --> 02:51:32.000
I just don't know how I'll be able to answer that question.

02:51:32.000 --> 02:51:33.000
Even then.

02:51:33.000 --> 02:51:34.680
I don't know how to give you the resource.

02:51:34.680 --> 02:51:40.780
I can't tell you what the demand is, but because the demand really comes with 27.

02:51:40.780 --> 02:51:43.299
This is just about establishing codes and ordinances.

02:51:43.299 --> 02:51:48.180
We know that people in the community have chargers already because there's hybrid cars

02:51:48.180 --> 02:51:49.180
McClendon.

02:51:49.180 --> 02:51:52.819
So we already know people have chargers in town.

02:51:52.819 --> 02:51:58.020
We just don't have the option for people to charge in our community as an asset, like

02:51:58.020 --> 02:52:00.100
a gas station or something else like that.

02:52:00.100 --> 02:52:01.940
We don't have that ability currently.

02:52:01.940 --> 02:52:03.180
Old MacLennan.

02:52:03.180 --> 02:52:09.260
Yes, I was at an event Saturday night and a guy came up to me and talked to me about

02:52:09.260 --> 02:52:10.260
this.

02:52:10.260 --> 02:52:15.100
And he said, keep one thing in mind when you're talking about chargers in the city of Freeport,

02:52:15.100 --> 02:52:19.940
We aren't talking about chargers for the people that got electric cars here, every one of

02:52:19.940 --> 02:52:21.739
them has got one in their house.

02:52:21.739 --> 02:52:25.620
You're talking about people that are traveling, like you want them to go through.

02:52:25.620 --> 02:52:32.739
I know as we move down here we talk about them being in the city lot or around, but

02:52:32.739 --> 02:52:38.219
it's an asset for people traveling between point A and point B. It's not necessarily

02:52:38.219 --> 02:52:43.459
totally used by the people here because they've got them in their houses.

02:52:43.459 --> 02:52:49.260
So this is something that's just it's it's free but it's just getting us

02:52:49.260 --> 02:52:56.879
prepared for having it. Okay. So if there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk,

02:52:56.879 --> 02:53:11.870
please take the roll. Stacy? I'm reluctant because I don't know enough about this.

02:53:11.870 --> 02:53:25.079
Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye.

02:53:25.079 --> 02:53:36.309
Monroe? No. Simmons? Parker? Aye. Resolution is adopted 6-2. Item number 24 is the

02:53:36.309 --> 02:53:42.069
adoption of resolution 2025-39. Could you please read this? Resolution approving the

02:53:42.069 --> 02:53:51.790
purchase of fire hydrants from J&R Supply. Darren? Yes. Annually we do fire

02:53:51.790 --> 02:54:03.790
We were wanting to buy 12 hydrants this year, but we went back through the budget and we

02:54:03.790 --> 02:54:09.309
don't have the money to buy 12 this year, so in the budget we're looking to buy five

02:54:09.309 --> 02:54:10.309
replacements.

02:54:10.309 --> 02:54:14.069
Curt, if you wouldn't mind bringing that back up.

02:54:14.069 --> 02:54:16.489
Wayne, would you get the light for me, please?

02:54:16.489 --> 02:54:20.729
So this is a map that I wanted to show you guys just quickly.

02:54:20.729 --> 02:54:26.649
This is hydrants within the city of Freeport that currently, the red ones, which there's

02:54:26.649 --> 02:54:34.190
only two currently don't work, there's, sorry, I'm struggling to read that, there's the beige

02:54:34.190 --> 02:54:43.309
color that, Kirk, can you zoom into that a little bit?

02:54:43.309 --> 02:54:50.829
The beige color ones are ones that are currently, ones that need to be replaced, and then the

02:54:50.829 --> 02:54:53.750
The yellow ones are ones that have four-inch branches.

02:54:53.750 --> 02:54:58.229
So in the fire stands, if they don't have a steamer port,

02:54:58.229 --> 02:55:00.709
a fire engine can't hooked up to them

02:55:00.709 --> 02:55:02.770
for the yellow ones there.

02:55:02.770 --> 02:55:05.590
So as you can see, they're spread all over the community.

02:55:05.590 --> 02:55:06.989
It's not one resources.

02:55:06.989 --> 02:55:09.389
So the city has an annual program that we go out

02:55:09.389 --> 02:55:11.190
and try to fix and replace our own

02:55:11.190 --> 02:55:13.950
because it's much more cost prohibitive.

02:55:13.950 --> 02:55:16.270
I believe, I don't have the memo pulled up,

02:55:16.270 --> 02:55:19.590
but I believe we have 87 fire hydrants currently

02:55:19.590 --> 02:55:22.290
that are older than 1960.

02:55:22.290 --> 02:55:25.309
And I believe we have around 47 of them

02:55:25.309 --> 02:55:27.270
that are still from 1930 era.

02:55:27.270 --> 02:55:29.110
So those don't have steamer nozzles.

02:55:29.110 --> 02:55:32.510
So like I said, our crews are pretty efficient

02:55:32.510 --> 02:55:35.270
about putting them in, but we did look through the budget

02:55:35.270 --> 02:55:38.069
and we only had enough budget for 50,000 this year.

02:55:38.069 --> 02:55:40.729
So that's the proposals in front of you.

02:55:40.729 --> 02:55:43.709
Kennedy hydrant is our preferred manufacturer

02:55:43.709 --> 02:55:46.290
for the city of Freeport for hydrant replacements.

02:55:46.290 --> 02:55:48.790
And we're asking for approval of this

02:55:48.790 --> 02:55:53.750
so we can get the materials on hand for summer construction.

02:55:53.750 --> 02:55:55.370
Is there a motion to adopt?

02:55:55.370 --> 02:55:59.430
So moved.

02:55:59.430 --> 02:56:01.469
We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm,

02:56:01.469 --> 02:56:05.030
seconded by Alderman Shadle.

02:56:05.030 --> 02:56:09.729
Any discussion on the resolution?

02:56:09.729 --> 02:56:10.889
Alderman Sanders.

02:56:10.889 --> 02:56:14.409
Do we still have the flushing program going on?

02:56:14.409 --> 02:56:15.250
Yes.

02:56:15.250 --> 02:56:19.530
And that's during a particular part of the year

02:56:19.530 --> 02:56:21.790
that we do that, or is that all seasonal?

02:56:21.790 --> 02:56:22.629
Spring and fall.

02:56:22.629 --> 02:56:23.930
Spring and fall.

02:56:23.930 --> 02:56:27.370
and are we making discoveries of those conditions

02:56:27.370 --> 02:56:29.250
of those hydrants at that time?

02:56:29.250 --> 02:56:30.090
Yep.

02:56:30.090 --> 02:56:35.690
And we're taking an assessment of what's needed to be done.

02:56:35.690 --> 02:56:40.610
Are any of those hydrants that is being mapped out up there,

02:56:40.610 --> 02:56:44.209
could they be rehabbed?

02:56:44.209 --> 02:56:45.209
No.

02:56:45.209 --> 02:56:46.649
They're not able to.

02:56:46.649 --> 02:56:50.049
200 hydrants that are shown up there are too old.

02:56:50.049 --> 02:56:51.290
They're 1960 area.

02:56:51.290 --> 02:56:53.850
They don't make the parts anymore.

02:56:53.850 --> 02:57:01.450
okay I see what you're saying okay thanks if there's no further discussion madam clerk please take the

02:57:01.450 --> 02:57:13.610
role Stacy aye Shadle aye Sanders aye Sellers aye Klemm aye Monroe aye Simmons and Parker aye

02:57:14.250 --> 02:57:21.129
the resolution is adopted eight to zero item number 25 is the adoption of resolution 202540

02:57:21.129 --> 02:57:27.290
could you please read this resolution approving a proposal from OEC for repairs

02:57:27.290 --> 02:57:32.090
and upgrades to the Albertus Airport fuel station payment system thank you

02:57:32.090 --> 02:57:36.229
manager Boyer thank your honor so the city owned Albertus Airport has been

02:57:36.229 --> 02:57:42.729
experiencing issues with our our credit card fuel payment system the system's

02:57:42.729 --> 02:57:47.370
been attempted to be fixed several times but it's basically antiquated and

02:57:47.370 --> 02:57:49.090
requires upgrading.

02:57:49.090 --> 02:57:50.610
The airport clients have complained

02:57:50.610 --> 02:57:52.170
about not being able to purchase fuel

02:57:52.170 --> 02:57:55.649
as the system cuts out routinely.

02:57:55.649 --> 02:57:59.450
And the current system was last upgraded in 2015-16.

02:57:59.450 --> 02:58:01.690
So the airport manager, Angie, has

02:58:01.690 --> 02:58:05.850
been working with vendors on the update replacement.

02:58:05.850 --> 02:58:09.809
And we're working with OEC on resolving the fuel system

02:58:09.809 --> 02:58:11.010
payment issues.

02:58:11.010 --> 02:58:13.649
Angie selected the proposed system upgrade

02:58:13.649 --> 02:58:15.930
to match the public works fuel system currently

02:58:15.930 --> 02:58:27.729
and West, and the fuel master and OEC state that this will be a more secure system for

02:58:27.729 --> 02:58:34.649
payments and transactions. Additionally, the cellular system will not have the lag in information

02:58:34.649 --> 02:58:40.290
that is creating all the payment issues for the fuel purchasing, so the total cost of

02:58:40.290 --> 02:59:10.290
Upgrade is fourteen thousand nine hundred fifty four dollars and the fuel master software will have a reoccurring software update fee of fourteen hundred dollars annually. So this contract is budgeted in the 2025 airport budget and staff request council approved this contract for the payment program for the payment equipment. Is there a motion to adopt? Motion to adopt. So second. Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm. Discussion on

02:59:10.290 --> 02:59:14.389
and the resolution Alderman Stacey.

02:59:14.389 --> 02:59:22.670
Wasn't this budgeted like in 23 for this?

02:59:22.670 --> 02:59:24.069
No, I don't think so.

02:59:24.069 --> 02:59:25.069
It was budgeted in 24.

02:59:25.069 --> 02:59:27.430
It was budgeted in this.

02:59:27.430 --> 02:59:32.940
I think you're mistaken the fuel upgrade down at the city yards, which is just about ready

02:59:32.940 --> 02:59:34.940
to start.

02:59:34.940 --> 02:59:41.159
That's the fuel master system, or the fuel upgrades that we use to all of the city employees

02:59:41.159 --> 02:59:44.139
and public work staff, police, fire, get their fuel from.

02:59:44.139 --> 02:59:46.559
This is specifically at the airport.

02:59:46.559 --> 02:59:50.409
Okay.

02:59:50.409 --> 02:59:51.409
There's no further discussion.

02:59:51.409 --> 02:59:52.969
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

02:59:52.969 --> 02:59:53.969
Stacy?

02:59:53.969 --> 02:59:54.969
Aye.

02:59:54.969 --> 03:00:06.340
Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And Parker? Aye.

03:00:06.340 --> 03:00:12.979
Resolution is adopted, 7-1. Item number 26 is the adoption of resolution 2025-41. Could

03:00:12.979 --> 03:00:18.540
you please read this? Resolution approving agreement with Fehr Graham to provide civil

03:00:18.540 --> 03:00:23.260
engineering services related to water and sewer equipment rehabilitation and electrical

03:00:23.260 --> 03:00:27.979
upgrades at Laurel lift station, Galena lift station, and well number eight. Thank

03:00:27.979 --> 03:00:32.559
you manager Boyer. Thank you your honor. The city of Freeport is planning utility

03:00:32.559 --> 03:00:36.540
upgrade projects for 25. The Laurel lift station and Galena lift stations were

03:00:36.540 --> 03:00:40.979
originally built in 67. While the building facilities are in acceptable

03:00:40.979 --> 03:00:45.020
shape for their age, the old equipment is failing due to lack of availability of

03:00:45.020 --> 03:00:49.059
parts and beyond its useful life. Our maintenance staff is running out of

03:00:49.059 --> 03:00:55.059
We have options for system repairs, so electrical systems are outdated, unsafe, and in need of updates.

03:00:55.059 --> 03:01:05.059
Additionally, the City utility needs to have automatic power generation at lift stations per IEP requirements for redundancy within the permitted sanitary sewer system.

03:01:05.059 --> 03:01:16.059
Furthermore, the water production well 8, so that's Carroll, in the low zone requires generator backup as part of the water capacity redundancy plan and efforts.

03:01:16.059 --> 03:01:29.059
So city staff proposes utilizing the existing building enclosures, wet well, dry vaults, infrastructure to fully replace the pumping system equipment, electrical controls and repair the building interiors.

03:01:29.059 --> 03:01:45.059
Fehr Graham design team will provide plans and specifications for the completed rehabilitation of the existing lift stations, including a new pumping system, full control panel, SCADA ready, so that's the over the air computer control system,

03:01:45.059 --> 03:01:51.219
and level transducers, backup floats, alarms, lights, electrical systems, and startup training.

03:01:51.219 --> 03:01:56.659
Additionally, a backup generator and automatic transfer switch will be sized and specified

03:01:56.659 --> 03:02:01.180
for both lift stations and for well number eight at the Carroll Water Tank.

03:02:01.180 --> 03:02:07.059
These projects will be designed specifically and bid in one package so the work is consistent

03:02:07.059 --> 03:02:10.579
and the synergy of the bid pricing will give us a little bit better pricing.

03:02:10.579 --> 03:02:19.100
So overall the cost of this additional design work will be $125,000 and $125 and the city

03:02:19.100 --> 03:02:22.100
staff recommends moving forward.

03:02:22.100 --> 03:02:26.340
Just a side note, this was budgeted in the 2025 utility budget.

03:02:26.340 --> 03:02:27.819
Is there a motion to adopt?

03:02:27.819 --> 03:02:29.379
So moved.

03:02:29.379 --> 03:02:33.030
Second.

03:02:33.030 --> 03:02:34.030
Monroe?

03:02:34.030 --> 03:02:39.149
James, was that you?

03:02:39.149 --> 03:02:43.469
made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

03:02:43.469 --> 03:02:47.030
Alderman Shadle, did you have a question?

03:02:47.030 --> 03:02:48.030
Sanders, I'm sorry.

03:02:48.030 --> 03:02:49.030
Yeah.

03:02:49.030 --> 03:02:49.510
I'm sorry.

03:02:49.510 --> 03:02:53.149
I do not look like this guy.

03:02:53.149 --> 03:03:03.680
Anyway, anyway, question is about the pumps.

03:03:03.680 --> 03:03:06.959
Are we, I know at any point in time

03:03:06.959 --> 03:03:11.159
it can be an emergency situation because of the seasonal time

03:03:11.159 --> 03:03:18.479
and the rainy period times and things like that when these stations really can break down

03:03:18.479 --> 03:03:21.600
on you and things of that nature.

03:03:21.600 --> 03:03:33.219
But did I hear you say something about additional generators at certain, do we have generators

03:03:33.219 --> 03:03:36.899
in place at these facilities at this point in time?

03:03:36.899 --> 03:03:37.899
No.

03:03:37.899 --> 03:03:38.899
Okay.

03:03:38.899 --> 03:03:47.659
is an emergency situation because the reason why I'm saying that, I know the people over

03:03:47.659 --> 03:03:52.340
there by Laurel and other places with these wells and things of this nature have been

03:03:52.340 --> 03:04:01.379
experiencing some serious backup problems because of breakdowns and things of this nature.

03:04:01.379 --> 03:04:08.059
And who is doing the overall work for these types of projects?

03:04:08.059 --> 03:04:14.340
who is scheduled to set up the computers, the electrical and where we're buying our

03:04:14.340 --> 03:04:16.540
pumps and things of this nature.

03:04:16.540 --> 03:04:21.340
We have all of these things lined up ready to go like yesterday.

03:04:21.340 --> 03:04:26.139
We should have all of this ready to go like yesterday already, but I'm just saying this

03:04:26.139 --> 03:04:35.219
simply because this is the season for this and I like to know that we're on top of it.

03:04:35.219 --> 03:04:41.840
We're actually going to be, we've got all our team players ready to go to replace these

03:04:41.840 --> 03:04:46.020
parts and replace these pumps and things of this nature.

03:04:46.020 --> 03:04:53.059
So if that is the case, who is the overseer, the people that's going to be monitoring the

03:04:53.059 --> 03:04:56.059
installation of these water pumps?

03:04:56.059 --> 03:05:00.059
Just to address what you're saying, we need to get the plan together first, and that's

03:05:00.059 --> 03:05:02.020
what this is, okay?

03:05:02.020 --> 03:05:06.180
This is get the plan together, figure out the scope of work, get the generator size, get

03:05:06.180 --> 03:05:11.979
everything lined up, and then we'll move forward with a bid, with a contractor, with a plan

03:05:11.979 --> 03:05:16.260
that everything's already been thought out. But this is basically one of the issues as

03:05:16.260 --> 03:05:23.379
you noted is we have a lot of remote sites in the system. We only have one portable generator.

03:05:23.379 --> 03:05:30.020
There's a few sites that have back up generator, but only like field circle and maybe a couple

03:05:30.020 --> 03:05:32.020
and

03:05:33.379 --> 03:05:46.180
the rest of them you have to drive all the way around the city with a generator in the middle of an emergency because you have no power so we're trying to very systematically go through, update all these remote sites and ensure that they have their own backup capacity if they need it.

03:05:46.180 --> 03:05:48.180
Can we have a planning operation?

03:05:48.180 --> 03:05:50.180
Yes, that's what this is. That's what this resolution is.

03:05:50.180 --> 03:05:55.540
And we will hear about this next meeting?

03:05:55.540 --> 03:05:59.139
Well, when we get the design together, we'll go out to bid on that.

03:05:59.139 --> 03:06:03.500
We get this design, because it's an emergency.

03:06:03.500 --> 03:06:07.540
Some people may not think it, but whenever a breakdown

03:06:07.540 --> 03:06:15.340
breaks down, you're at the mercy of Almighty, that kind of thing.

03:06:15.340 --> 03:06:18.579
Right, you don't want to be solving your problem.

03:06:18.579 --> 03:06:19.819
Yeah, exactly.

03:06:19.819 --> 03:06:21.700
All right.

03:06:21.700 --> 03:06:23.219
If there's no further discussion,

03:06:23.219 --> 03:06:24.579
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:06:24.579 --> 03:06:26.100
Stacy?

03:06:26.100 --> 03:06:26.780
Aye.

03:06:26.780 --> 03:06:27.379
Shadle?

03:06:27.379 --> 03:06:27.879
Aye.

03:06:27.879 --> 03:06:28.500
Sanders?

03:06:28.500 --> 03:06:29.000
Aye.

03:06:29.000 --> 03:06:29.819
Sellers?

03:06:29.819 --> 03:06:30.659
Aye.

03:06:30.659 --> 03:06:31.500
Klemm?

03:06:31.500 --> 03:06:32.319
Aye.

03:06:32.319 --> 03:06:33.159
Monroe?

03:06:33.159 --> 03:06:36.459
Aye.

03:06:36.459 --> 03:06:37.280
Simmons?

03:06:37.280 --> 03:06:38.120
Parker?

03:06:38.120 --> 03:06:38.959
Aye.

03:06:38.959 --> 03:06:41.420
The resolution is adopted, eight to zero.

03:06:41.420 --> 03:06:44.920
Item number 27 is the adoption of resolution 2025-42.

03:06:44.920 --> 03:06:46.120
Could you please read this?

03:06:46.120 --> 03:06:48.360
Resolution approving an agreement with Fehr Graham

03:06:48.360 --> 03:06:50.659
to provide civil engineering services related

03:06:50.659 --> 03:06:53.940
to EV charging station installation project.

03:06:54.780 --> 03:06:55.920
Manager Boyer.

03:06:55.920 --> 03:06:56.760
Thank you, your honor.

03:06:56.760 --> 03:07:00.500
So the city is receiving $320,000 in 2025

03:07:00.500 --> 03:07:07.340
for EV Charger Grant funding through the Illinois EPA Climate and Equitable Jobs Act program.

03:07:07.340 --> 03:07:14.459
This will incorporate EV chargers in two locations, the municipal lot and the southwest corner

03:07:14.459 --> 03:07:19.399
of the, I'm sorry, it would not be the southwest corner, it would be the Lindo lot.

03:07:19.399 --> 03:07:22.659
Each location is planned to have four chargers.

03:07:22.659 --> 03:07:28.500
Additionally, comments, grants now available for the interconnect for each location for

03:07:28.500 --> 03:07:35.940
for which Freeport will qualify up to $240,000 each interconnect on each interconnect installation.

03:07:35.940 --> 03:07:39.700
These grant opportunities are good only through 2025.

03:07:39.700 --> 03:07:44.620
So the city needs to design and bid the EV charger installations and site for this project.

03:07:44.620 --> 03:07:49.819
Fehr Graham will complete the detailed reconnaissance of the two EV charger locations and collect

03:07:49.819 --> 03:07:52.500
topo survey on each site.

03:07:52.500 --> 03:07:57.219
This information will be used to create a full civil site layout plan as well as develop

03:07:57.219 --> 03:08:10.219
We have proposed electrical drawings. The charger selection, specification, and station layout will be coordinated between Fehr Graham and Thayer Energy Solutions and the selected local EV supplier.

03:08:10.219 --> 03:08:21.219
The engineering firm will coordinate the layout and proposed EV charging station utility interconnect with ComEd and lead the efforts on the grant initiatives for connections.

03:08:21.219 --> 03:08:45.219
Fehr Graham team will provide contract bid documents and project specifications for a bid letting project in accordance with the city of Freeport and state requirements. The cost of these services is $90,730. This charger project was budgeted in the 2025 year budget, and staff recommends moving forward with the EV Charger Design program.

03:08:45.219 --> 03:08:57.350
is there a motion to adopt so move was that Clem yeah I moved to move it forward I was just trying

03:08:57.350 --> 03:09:04.229
to guess who it happened too quickly it was it was okay all right so we have a motion made by

03:09:04.229 --> 03:09:10.790
Alderman Shadle seconded by Alderman Clem uh discussion on this resolution Darren I just

03:09:10.790 --> 03:09:16.389
want to clarify one thing so the by the time the memos were due I wasn't able to change this but

03:09:16.389 --> 03:09:23.430
While the memo says the southwest corner of Walmart had a discussion with the funding manager

03:09:23.430 --> 03:09:27.639
funding manager for the project from the state and we have to stick with our

03:09:27.639 --> 03:09:31.879
original selections because that's what they approved which were the municipal

03:09:31.879 --> 03:09:36.040
lot downtown and also we call it the Linda lot but it's the lot of state in

03:09:36.040 --> 03:09:41.879
Maine those were the two areas that were selected because ComEd power has has the

03:09:41.879 --> 03:09:48.040
juice required to run these chargers and the what Freeport has selected is

03:09:48.040 --> 03:09:49.040
Miller.

03:09:49.040 --> 03:09:52.639
This is level three chargers so we can have people come in and charge quickly, maybe get

03:09:52.639 --> 03:09:57.120
a bite to eat and be ready to go or shop downtown or something like that.

03:09:57.120 --> 03:10:05.139
That was the intent of this program and they also required, and this was per the requirement

03:10:05.139 --> 03:10:17.569
of the grantee that you have to put at least four up per bank and they have to be ADA accessible.

03:10:17.569 --> 03:10:22.450
making one comment actually those might be better locations at this time just

03:10:22.450 --> 03:10:27.530
because we already have several at Freeport Ford which I think are the only

03:10:27.530 --> 03:10:39.290
ones in the county is that does Bakers have one now too or to there's no

03:10:39.290 --> 03:10:46.010
further discussion and clerk please take the role Stacy I Shadel I Sanders all

03:10:46.010 --> 03:11:22.379
Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Parker? Aye. The resolution is adopted eight to zero. Item number 28 is the adoption of resolution 2025-43. Could you please read this? Resolution approving Illinois Department of Transportation resolution for the 2025 motor fuel tax or MFT hot mix asphalt materials. Thank you. Darren? Yeah, this is annually we get an allotment from

03:11:22.379 --> 03:11:24.899
I-DOT through the Motor Fuel Tax Fund.

03:11:24.899 --> 03:11:27.059
The last couple of years, we've chose

03:11:27.059 --> 03:11:30.459
to use that money to buy hot mix for our crews.

03:11:30.459 --> 03:11:33.180
This is how we are paving streets.

03:11:33.180 --> 03:11:38.219
Last year, we did about, I believe, about 16,000 tons.

03:11:38.219 --> 03:11:43.180
We did the calculations for this year, and it's about 14,500 tons.

03:11:43.180 --> 03:11:45.180
In order for us to go out to bid,

03:11:45.180 --> 03:11:48.540
we have to pass this resolution through the council.

03:11:48.540 --> 03:11:52.340
So we have a resolution number for IDOT.

03:11:52.340 --> 03:11:54.299
This will be paid for with the IDOT money

03:11:54.299 --> 03:11:57.639
that we receive in 2025.

03:11:57.639 --> 03:11:59.899
So it's our recommendation for council to approve this

03:11:59.899 --> 03:12:02.299
so we can get it out to bid tomorrow.

03:12:02.299 --> 03:12:02.899
So moved.

03:12:02.899 --> 03:12:03.399
Thank you.

03:12:03.399 --> 03:12:06.659
Is there a motion to adopt?

03:12:06.659 --> 03:12:07.500
Sellers in.

03:12:07.500 --> 03:12:09.459
All right, we have a motion by Alderman Sellers,

03:12:09.459 --> 03:12:11.979
seconded by Alderman Monroe.

03:12:11.979 --> 03:12:14.819
Discussion on this resolution?

03:12:14.819 --> 03:12:17.059
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:12:17.059 --> 03:12:17.940
Stacy?

03:12:17.940 --> 03:12:18.459
Aye.

03:12:18.459 --> 03:12:26.940
Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye.

03:12:26.940 --> 03:12:33.180
The resolution is adopted 8-0. And for item number 29 could you please read the approval of a bid?

03:12:34.379 --> 03:12:39.979
A bid opening was held on March 18th 2025 for lead service line replacement phase 4.

03:12:40.620 --> 03:12:45.180
Thank you manager Boyer. Thank you your honor. The city of Freeport's been working on

03:12:45.180 --> 03:12:50.219
reducing and eliminating lead water service lines for nearly five and a half years and that came

03:12:50.219 --> 03:12:57.260
through about 12 million dollars in forgivable loan funds through the EPA. The city has estimated

03:12:57.260 --> 03:13:02.459
that we started with about 2,300 lead services in the system and we have currently replaced more

03:13:02.459 --> 03:13:09.420
than 1,350 services to date with IEPA loans and received nine million dollars so far in funding

03:13:09.420 --> 03:13:14.180
thanks to the help of our engineer program the lead service line program

03:13:14.180 --> 03:13:18.819
phase four has secured an additional three million twenty seven thousand

03:13:18.819 --> 03:13:22.979
dollars in EPA forgivable loan funds for this phase bringing the total to twelve

03:13:22.979 --> 03:13:28.459
million dollars on March 18 2025 the city held a bid opening for the lead

03:13:28.459 --> 03:13:33.420
service line replacement program phase four the engineer has several seven

03:13:33.420 --> 03:13:37.059
contractors pull plans and specifications five contractors

03:13:37.059 --> 03:13:42.579
submitted final bids and 5 Star Energy Services LLC out of Waukesha, Wisconsin was a little

03:13:42.579 --> 03:13:51.700
better at $19,731 per base bid. The total contract project award for this phase will

03:13:51.700 --> 03:14:00.020
be $2,525,000 for service equipment, I'm sorry, for service replacements. The additional funds

03:14:00.020 --> 03:14:07.200
will reimburse the city for design and required construction engineering per IEPA rules.

03:14:07.200 --> 03:14:14.680
Five Star Energy is the current construction contractor on phase three, which has approximately

03:14:14.680 --> 03:14:17.620
$400,000 of work remaining.

03:14:17.620 --> 03:14:23.100
And the city plans to fund the $3 million project with 100% IEPA forgivable loan funding

03:14:23.100 --> 03:14:25.000
and no cost to the users.

03:14:25.000 --> 03:14:30.440
and this project was accounted for in 2025 and will be accounted for in the 2026 budget.

03:14:30.440 --> 03:14:33.559
This is a reimbursable funded project.

03:14:33.559 --> 03:14:39.600
So staff recommends City Council approve the low bid from Five Star Energy Services, LLC,

03:14:39.600 --> 03:14:45.840
in the amount of $2,525,000, allowing the project to proceed to construction once we

03:14:45.840 --> 03:14:48.399
receive the IEPA concurrence.

03:14:48.399 --> 03:14:50.799
Chair motion to approve as stated.

03:14:50.799 --> 03:14:51.799
Second.

03:14:51.799 --> 03:14:57.879
Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the bid.

03:14:57.879 --> 03:14:59.399
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:14:59.399 --> 03:15:01.159
Stacy? Aye.

03:15:01.159 --> 03:15:02.280
Shadle? Aye.

03:15:02.280 --> 03:15:03.479
Sanders? Aye.

03:15:03.479 --> 03:15:04.600
Sellers? Aye.

03:15:04.600 --> 03:15:05.799
Klemm? Aye.

03:15:05.799 --> 03:15:07.079
Monroe? Aye.

03:15:07.079 --> 03:15:08.680
Simmons? Aye.

03:15:08.680 --> 03:15:10.680
And Parker? Aye.

03:15:10.680 --> 03:15:13.319
The motion passes 8-0.

03:15:13.319 --> 03:15:16.200
Item number 30, could you please read the next bid?

03:15:16.200 --> 03:15:26.200
Another bid opening was held on March 21st, 2025 for installation of video cameras in public transportation vehicles for Pretzel City Transit.

03:15:26.200 --> 03:15:28.000
Director Duckman.

03:15:28.000 --> 03:15:41.000
Thank you, Madam Mayor. I want to take a minute again to thank Sadie Grande for doing a great job on this project because actually the city was awarded this grant money back in 2022.

03:15:41.000 --> 03:15:47.000
and we've been working tirelessly with the state back and forth and finally we were able to put

03:15:47.000 --> 03:15:57.479
this out to bid again and so the city held a bid opening on February 9th of 2025 or I'm sorry it

03:15:57.479 --> 03:16:02.680
was published on February 9th and the bid opening was actually held on March 21st at 10 a.m. and

03:16:02.680 --> 03:16:08.920
essentially what this bid opening for is to put security cameras on our pretzel city area transit

03:16:08.920 --> 03:16:16.840
Busses. So staff received a total of five bids. Two of them were disqualified and the reason you

03:16:16.840 --> 03:16:23.239
would have a disqualifying bid is that anytime you have a bid opening, occasionally if you need to

03:16:23.239 --> 03:16:29.799
change language or specifications before the bid opening, you have to have an addendum signed saying

03:16:29.799 --> 03:16:35.879
you receive the addendum. Proof of insurance is another. There's different items in a bid package

03:16:35.879 --> 03:16:52.280
So staff provided a matrix of the results of the bid opening and the lowest responsible bidder was Angel Tracks.

03:16:52.280 --> 03:16:58.120
They had a bid of 36,000, a little over 36,000.

03:16:58.120 --> 03:17:04.879
they also provided a few options and the options were to add cameras at the front

03:17:04.879 --> 03:17:10.079
of the bus as well as also having a wireless access point in their parking

03:17:10.079 --> 03:17:14.920
lot that would add another four thousand six hundred dollars that kept them still

03:17:14.920 --> 03:17:18.840
as the lowest responsible bidder at forty one thousand and staff is

03:17:18.840 --> 03:17:25.559
recommending moving forward with angle angel tracks for this project is there a

03:17:25.559 --> 03:17:26.559
Settlers.

03:17:26.559 --> 03:17:27.559
Do we have a motion to approve?

03:17:27.559 --> 03:17:28.559
So move.

03:17:28.559 --> 03:17:29.559
Second.

03:17:29.559 --> 03:17:33.719
Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

03:17:33.719 --> 03:17:34.719
Discussion on the bid.

03:17:34.719 --> 03:17:35.719
Alderman Sanders.

03:17:35.719 --> 03:17:40.399
Well, this is not directly a discussion on the bid.

03:17:40.399 --> 03:17:41.399
The bid is...

03:17:41.399 --> 03:17:42.399
Wait a minute.

03:17:42.399 --> 03:17:43.399
Wait a minute.

03:17:43.399 --> 03:17:44.399
So that...

03:17:44.399 --> 03:17:45.399
Yeah, it's part of a...

03:17:45.399 --> 03:17:46.399
So it's about the...

03:17:46.399 --> 03:17:47.399
Yeah, it's part of the bid.

03:17:47.399 --> 03:17:53.040
Okay, it's going to be about the bid, right?

03:17:53.040 --> 03:17:54.040
Installing cameras in the bid, right?

03:17:54.040 --> 03:17:54.879
and

03:17:54.879 --> 03:17:56.040
Yeah, that's what I'm about to talk about.

03:17:56.040 --> 03:17:56.879
Okay, all right.

03:17:56.879 --> 03:17:59.719
Y'all trying to second guess me.

03:17:59.719 --> 03:18:01.059
I don't like that.

03:18:01.059 --> 03:18:02.540
But you stated it yourself all the time.

03:18:02.540 --> 03:18:04.479
Well, I may have said it like that,

03:18:04.479 --> 03:18:06.760
but I didn't mean it like that.

03:18:06.760 --> 03:18:11.760
But anyway, the cameras will provide security,

03:18:13.200 --> 03:18:15.000
part of the bidding.

03:18:15.000 --> 03:18:19.559
It's part of the bid that the cameras

03:18:19.559 --> 03:18:28.479
are going to be also subject to security for the transportation vehicles when they're at

03:18:28.479 --> 03:18:31.799
the company or whatever the case is.

03:18:31.799 --> 03:18:39.280
We also would have that available for possible vandalism or something of that nature.

03:18:39.280 --> 03:18:41.719
Cameras would be installed for those purposes as well.

03:18:41.719 --> 03:18:42.719
Yes.

03:18:42.719 --> 03:18:43.719
That's part of the bid, am I correct?

03:18:43.719 --> 03:18:44.719
Yes.

03:18:44.719 --> 03:18:48.280
These are security cameras for vandalism, inappropriate behavior, et cetera.

03:18:48.280 --> 03:18:50.280
See, I told you, man.

03:18:50.280 --> 03:18:52.280
Okay.

03:18:52.280 --> 03:18:54.280
Any other discussion?

03:18:54.280 --> 03:18:56.280
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

03:18:58.280 --> 03:18:59.280
Stacy?

03:18:59.280 --> 03:19:00.280
Aye.

03:19:00.280 --> 03:19:01.280
Shadle?

03:19:01.280 --> 03:19:02.280
Aye.

03:19:02.280 --> 03:19:03.280
Sanders?

03:19:03.280 --> 03:19:04.280
Aye.

03:19:04.280 --> 03:19:05.280
Sellers?

03:19:05.280 --> 03:19:06.280
Aye.

03:19:06.280 --> 03:19:07.280
Plem?

03:19:07.280 --> 03:19:08.280
Aye.

03:19:08.280 --> 03:19:09.280
Monroe?

03:19:09.280 --> 03:19:10.280
Aye.

03:19:10.280 --> 03:19:11.280
Simmons?

03:19:11.280 --> 03:19:12.280
Aye.

03:19:12.280 --> 03:19:13.280
And Parker?

03:19:13.280 --> 03:19:14.280
Aye.

03:19:14.280 --> 03:19:15.280
The motion is approved, 8-0.

03:19:15.280 --> 03:19:19.079
31 is Discussion and Possible Adaption of Resolution 2025-32.

03:19:19.079 --> 03:19:20.079
Could you please read this?

03:19:23.090 --> 03:19:29.049
the the resolution if adopted is terminating a contract with Nordic for

03:19:29.049 --> 03:19:36.090
residential and small business electrical aggregation I think your honor I kind of

03:19:36.090 --> 03:19:40.690
were behind a little bit on this one apparently Nordic has already extras

03:19:40.690 --> 03:19:44.930
they have already canceled this agreement so the residents that are on

03:19:44.930 --> 03:19:50.450
the citywide aggregation program will be transferred back to ComEd so there's

03:19:50.450 --> 03:19:56.889
Do you know how soon that will happen?

03:19:56.889 --> 03:20:03.500
My guess would be very shortly within the next month.

03:20:03.500 --> 03:20:04.500
Alderman Sanders.

03:20:04.500 --> 03:20:21.399
I'm about to ask you, I'm about to ask you, okay, just getting my thought process in place.

03:20:21.399 --> 03:20:24.680
Nordic is canceling.

03:20:24.680 --> 03:20:26.879
Yes.

03:20:26.879 --> 03:20:36.239
There's no other suppliers that the customers, the city of Freeport can have and adopt as

03:20:36.239 --> 03:20:44.920
opposed to commit. Are there other suppliers that will be available to the residents of

03:20:44.920 --> 03:20:45.920
Freeport?

03:20:45.920 --> 03:20:51.399
Well, not at the moment, but we'll bring back, we're going to re-bid this thing if

03:20:51.399 --> 03:20:56.760
its councils will do so and then we'll have some other options. But not right this minute

03:20:56.760 --> 03:21:04.639
No. Okay, we'll move on to item number 32, which is discussion regarding the

03:21:04.639 --> 03:21:11.239
structure fire of the storage building on East Stevenson. Deputy Chief. Thank you,

03:21:11.239 --> 03:21:17.959
Madam Mayor. It's been a few weeks since the fire occurred, but we wanted to give

03:21:17.959 --> 03:21:22.840
you a report on the actions of that evening so that you guys were in the

03:21:22.840 --> 03:21:28.879
loop on it. On Saturday afternoon, March 22nd, approximately 416 p.m. units from

03:21:28.879 --> 03:21:34.319
and the Freeport Fire Department were dispatched for a grass fire that was reported to be located

03:21:34.319 --> 03:21:38.639
at 607 East Stevenson Street here in Freeport.

03:21:38.639 --> 03:21:46.159
Upon arrival, first-in crews located a fire in a lot located on the west side of the 100

03:21:46.159 --> 03:21:54.239
block of South Sherman, located directly to the south of a church that was located there.

03:21:54.239 --> 03:21:58.559
Initial size-up revealed the grass fire had spread from a fire pit and was increasing

03:21:58.559 --> 03:22:03.360
in both size and intensity and was now involving a nearby structure.

03:22:03.360 --> 03:22:08.100
This structure was located at 525 East Stevenson Street.

03:22:08.100 --> 03:22:13.719
At 428 p.m., it was confirmed that a working structure fire was present in the rear of

03:22:13.719 --> 03:22:17.879
a 450-foot-long structure located there.

03:22:17.879 --> 03:22:21.879
Fire suppression efforts were established, however, due to the growing intensity of the

03:22:21.879 --> 03:22:22.879
and others.

03:22:22.879 --> 03:22:29.440
The fire and its path of travel, location and accessibility, off-duty personnel were

03:22:29.440 --> 03:22:35.520
immediately recalled to the scene to assist with additional manpower and equipment needs.

03:22:35.520 --> 03:22:41.479
Despite all initial efforts, the fire within the rear of the first involved structure advanced

03:22:41.479 --> 03:22:49.860
westward into the rear of the second and much larger structure, also located at 525 E. Stevenson.

03:22:49.860 --> 03:22:53.819
This was determined to be the main building of the complex.

03:22:53.819 --> 03:23:00.379
At 5.06 p.m., a Mavis division box alarm, that's an all call for area departments around

03:23:00.379 --> 03:23:06.700
us, was placed through city dispatch requesting additional resources of manpower and apparatus

03:23:06.700 --> 03:23:10.180
to the scene from surrounding communities.

03:23:10.180 --> 03:23:16.020
Specifically requested were an additional ladder tower and pumper water tankers from

03:23:16.020 --> 03:23:20.940
from Tana Area Departments that would assist with supplying water to the elevated master

03:23:20.940 --> 03:23:28.340
streams and hose lines that were deployed in various locations to battle this fire.

03:23:28.340 --> 03:23:33.620
Firefighting efforts continued throughout the rest of the evening and into Sunday morning,

03:23:33.620 --> 03:23:40.000
and by 2 a.m. an excavator from Fisher Excavating arrived on scene and was utilized to gain

03:23:40.000 --> 03:23:45.100
safe access throughout the main structure, thus assisting our crews with overhaul and

03:23:45.100 --> 03:23:48.059
and finally extinguishment efforts.

03:23:48.059 --> 03:23:53.819
These efforts were completed by 3.30 a.m. and all units had cleared the scene by 4.30

03:23:53.819 --> 03:23:55.540
a.m.

03:23:55.540 --> 03:24:00.620
Factors that our command staff and personnel were called to deal with at this large scale

03:24:00.620 --> 03:24:07.899
event included rapidly developing fire conditions, dealing with differing types of building construction

03:24:07.899 --> 03:24:12.239
in several structure with large footprints.

03:24:12.239 --> 03:24:18.219
The condition of those structures, proximity and accessibility issues, positioning fire

03:24:18.219 --> 03:24:20.799
apparatus and personnel around the structure.

03:24:20.799 --> 03:24:28.219
There was a lot of overgrowth and stuff surrounding the property.

03:24:28.219 --> 03:24:35.920
Ensuring protection for all the nearby structures, accountability for all unseen personnel, not

03:24:35.920 --> 03:24:41.860
just ours, but also those that were attending and making sure that they had instructions

03:24:41.860 --> 03:24:44.360
and others based upon safe operations.

03:24:44.360 --> 03:24:47.239
Establishing traffic control along Stevenson Street

03:24:47.239 --> 03:24:49.479
and Henderson Road, there were a lot of people

03:24:49.479 --> 03:24:51.280
that wanted to see what was going on

03:24:51.280 --> 03:24:54.139
and of course that was flooding into our operations

03:24:54.139 --> 03:24:58.079
as we were trying to put down water supply lines.

03:24:58.959 --> 03:25:01.200
Securing of utilities, we needed ComEd

03:25:01.200 --> 03:25:05.840
to secure this facility from electric

03:25:05.840 --> 03:25:07.600
while we did our operations.

03:25:07.600 --> 03:25:10.479
And assessing our water systems capabilities

03:25:10.479 --> 03:25:14.420
versus the amount that would be required for extinguishment.

03:25:15.559 --> 03:25:20.600
As well as logistical issues related to

03:25:20.600 --> 03:25:24.360
establishing tanker supplied water operations.

03:25:24.360 --> 03:25:27.680
We don't do, because we have a hydrogen city,

03:25:27.680 --> 03:25:31.659
we don't do as much with water tankers and everything,

03:25:31.659 --> 03:25:36.040
but we do train annually with these groups

03:25:36.040 --> 03:25:41.040
and that proved helpful in us keeping this up.

03:25:42.040 --> 03:25:45.959
Large master stream devices like water towers and stuff,

03:25:45.959 --> 03:25:48.399
they can flow 2,000 gallons a minute.

03:25:48.399 --> 03:25:52.799
And the hydrants in that area are not substantial

03:25:52.799 --> 03:25:56.399
to meet the needs of three different water towers

03:25:56.399 --> 03:25:57.639
that are all flowing at once.

03:25:57.639 --> 03:26:02.600
If you were to imagine if we had a bottle of pop here

03:26:02.600 --> 03:26:04.899
and we put six straws in it.

03:26:04.899 --> 03:26:07.020
It's not gonna last very long.

03:26:07.020 --> 03:26:11.260
Same thing, which is why we had to have additional water

03:26:11.260 --> 03:26:16.260
supplied to us from other departments with their tankers.

03:26:17.340 --> 03:26:18.940
We had to deal with the potential need

03:26:18.940 --> 03:26:21.700
to refill apparatus on scene due to the length

03:26:22.700 --> 03:26:24.459
of the incident.

03:26:24.459 --> 03:26:27.540
Also the feeding and rehabbing of the personnel

03:26:27.540 --> 03:26:28.500
that were there.

03:26:28.500 --> 03:26:31.139
This was a 13 hour event.

03:26:31.139 --> 03:26:33.319
and finally the securing of heavy equipment

03:26:33.319 --> 03:26:36.139
to break apart the structure so finer overhaul

03:26:36.139 --> 03:26:39.700
and extinguishment of the fire could occur.

03:26:40.819 --> 03:26:44.540
In entirety, this event spanned, like I said, 13 hours.

03:26:44.540 --> 03:26:47.379
It involved nearly 120 individuals

03:26:47.379 --> 03:26:51.520
and required roughly 2.3 million gallons of water

03:26:51.520 --> 03:26:53.540
to achieve final extinguishment.

03:26:53.540 --> 03:26:57.020
It's an estimate based upon calculations

03:26:57.020 --> 03:27:00.659
of what we know that the equipment there could flow.

03:27:00.659 --> 03:27:02.219
During the course of this event,

03:27:02.219 --> 03:27:04.700
three firefighters sustained minor injuries.

03:27:04.700 --> 03:27:07.379
All were assessed by on-scene EMS

03:27:07.379 --> 03:27:11.100
and were determined not to require transport.

03:27:11.100 --> 03:27:13.639
And that is our report on that fire.

03:27:14.739 --> 03:27:18.239
Thank you.

03:27:18.239 --> 03:27:19.440
And I'm guessing we're gonna move on

03:27:19.440 --> 03:27:22.879
to department head reports, finance?

03:27:22.879 --> 03:27:23.799
Nothing, Your Honor.

03:27:23.799 --> 03:27:24.920
Thank you, community development.

03:27:24.920 --> 03:27:26.280
Nothing tonight, Madam Mayor.

03:27:26.280 --> 03:27:27.120
Thank you.

03:27:27.120 --> 03:27:29.440
Public works, nothing, fire, do you have more?

03:27:29.440 --> 03:27:30.799
No. Police?

03:27:30.799 --> 03:27:32.239
Just real quick, last year,

03:27:32.239 --> 03:27:36.079
the Council approved the purchase of new body-worn cameras.

03:27:36.079 --> 03:27:37.340
And when I presented that memo,

03:27:37.340 --> 03:27:39.600
I said that I was gonna apply for a grant.

03:27:39.600 --> 03:27:44.040
So I applied for a federal small rural tribal grant.

03:27:44.040 --> 03:27:46.959
And it was about a month ago or so

03:27:46.959 --> 03:27:50.340
we received about $25,000 towards that purchase, so.

03:27:53.000 --> 03:27:53.840
Thank you for that.

03:27:53.840 --> 03:27:54.659
Library?

03:27:54.659 --> 03:27:55.500
No airport.

03:27:57.139 --> 03:28:00.079
Airport, would you like to say anything?

03:28:00.079 --> 03:28:01.399
Angie, no?

03:28:01.399 --> 03:28:05.280
Okay, then we will move on to city manager report.

03:28:05.280 --> 03:28:06.360
No report tonight.

03:28:06.360 --> 03:28:07.760
I'm sorry, Curt?

03:28:07.760 --> 03:28:08.600
No.

03:28:08.600 --> 03:28:12.479
And given the time, I'm gonna pass on mine as well.

03:28:12.479 --> 03:28:13.479
Alderman Stacey?

03:28:14.440 --> 03:28:15.280
No.

03:28:16.120 --> 03:28:17.000
Alderman Shadle?

03:28:17.000 --> 03:28:17.979
Nothing to that.

03:28:17.979 --> 03:28:19.280
Alderman Sanders?

03:28:19.280 --> 03:28:22.440
Yeah, I'd like to make a comment

03:28:22.440 --> 03:28:25.479
since I didn't get a chance to make it earlier.

03:28:25.479 --> 03:28:28.639
And I just wanted to bring it to our attention

03:28:28.639 --> 03:28:31.479
and I want council to know it as well

03:28:31.479 --> 03:28:35.000
because there was a violation with one of the ordinances

03:28:35.000 --> 03:28:38.399
and it had to do with our residency ordinances.

03:28:38.399 --> 03:28:41.280
And the fact that it was a violation

03:28:41.280 --> 03:28:45.360
and it took effect, it was played out anyway

03:28:46.280 --> 03:28:47.959
and nobody is held accountable

03:28:47.959 --> 03:28:50.639
for the violation of this ordinance.

03:28:50.639 --> 03:28:55.440
And I wanted to visit that to get clarity with that

03:28:55.440 --> 03:28:57.399
since it had been brought to our attention

03:28:57.399 --> 03:28:59.520
but I wanted the public to know

03:28:59.520 --> 03:29:03.079
that there was an ordinance violation

03:29:03.079 --> 03:29:06.959
and we need to adhere to that

03:29:06.959 --> 03:29:10.000
and make another, take another look at it.

03:29:10.000 --> 03:29:12.139
I don't know if we put it on the agenda

03:29:12.139 --> 03:29:14.479
on the California for the next time

03:29:14.479 --> 03:29:16.639
but the fact of the matter is

03:29:16.639 --> 03:29:20.180
it is something that needs to be looked into.

03:29:20.180 --> 03:29:20.719
that needs to be looked into and I think

03:29:21.600 --> 03:29:29.219
me addressing it now will give it will give everybody an opportunity to look into the matter because the resident see

03:29:31.239 --> 03:29:38.139
Problem shouldn't never happen first of all because there was an ordinance in place and if that ordinance is in place

03:29:38.139 --> 03:29:46.040
We got to be held accountable for that ordinance and not violate that ordinance and that's what I wanted to bring

03:29:46.040 --> 03:29:46.620
and Herb.

03:29:47.360 --> 03:29:48.559
We had a little bit of a

03:29:48.559 --> 03:29:49.639
technical issue just a moment

03:29:49.639 --> 03:29:50.059
ago.

03:29:50.059 --> 03:29:51.680
Thank you for your attention to

03:29:51.680 --> 03:29:53.260
the attention.

03:29:54.780 --> 03:29:58.319
I just would like to publicly

03:29:58.319 --> 03:30:01.239
thank all of the personnel that

03:30:01.239 --> 03:30:08.620
worked on putting out the fire

03:30:08.700 --> 03:30:10.459
on Eastside.

03:30:10.459 --> 03:30:12.659
As the Chief mentioned, there

03:30:12.659 --> 03:30:16.040
were about 125 people involved

03:30:16.040 --> 03:30:19.420
and Rob and I had a meeting next

03:30:19.420 --> 03:30:26.020
Miller, and really got some good insight of everything. But, you know, the things that

03:30:26.020 --> 03:30:31.659
you forget on all this stuff is what the police department did, what public works did, what

03:30:31.659 --> 03:30:37.000
the street department did in closing these off and to place off. And like he mentioned,

03:30:37.000 --> 03:30:42.659
one of the big hazards were the people that coming over to look at it. And there's one

03:30:42.659 --> 03:30:48.379
example and fortunately we don't have a lot of them here, but there's one example of a

03:30:48.379 --> 03:30:50.659
of a large building that was built years ago

03:30:50.659 --> 03:30:53.459
that had everything in the world stored into it

03:30:53.459 --> 03:30:55.379
and everybody kind of forgets about it

03:30:55.379 --> 03:30:58.620
till somebody does a dumb move.

03:30:58.620 --> 03:31:01.020
But thank you guys for all the work that you did.

03:31:01.020 --> 03:31:02.700
We appreciate it.

03:31:02.700 --> 03:31:03.940
Alderman Monroe.

03:31:03.940 --> 03:31:05.299
Nothing to nightmare.

03:31:05.299 --> 03:31:06.139
Alderman Simmons.

03:31:07.379 --> 03:31:09.700
Yeah, I just want to second what Klemm said.

03:31:09.700 --> 03:31:10.659
I was gonna say that too.

03:31:10.659 --> 03:31:14.340
It was amazing watching all y'all fight that fire

03:31:14.340 --> 03:31:15.299
and put it out.

03:31:15.299 --> 03:31:16.139
So thank you for that.

03:31:16.139 --> 03:31:20.799
and also thank you for clarifying why you didn't use the fire hydrants right there on

03:31:20.799 --> 03:31:23.799
Stevenson Street because that caused a lot of confusion.

03:31:23.799 --> 03:31:24.799
So thank you for that.

03:31:24.799 --> 03:31:25.799
On Parker.

03:31:25.799 --> 03:31:26.799
Public comment.

03:31:26.799 --> 03:31:31.799
Is there anyone for public comment?

03:31:31.799 --> 03:31:41.530
Go ahead.

03:31:41.530 --> 03:31:45.229
Good evening, city officials.

03:31:45.229 --> 03:31:53.149
I was home sick, but I couldn't sit in front of YouTube and listen to what was going on

03:31:53.149 --> 03:31:54.149
down here.

03:31:54.149 --> 03:32:01.430
One of the first things I'd like to talk about is this situation with residency.

03:32:01.430 --> 03:32:07.549
Some of you know that I've been talking about residency in Freeport for years.

03:32:07.549 --> 03:32:15.389
I have an issue with individuals working here, getting paid by us, and taking their dollars

03:32:15.389 --> 03:32:20.909
someplace else, tax dollars, property taxes, so forth and so on.

03:32:20.909 --> 03:32:26.750
But I also have another issue in talking to somebody who this would possibly affect.

03:32:26.750 --> 03:32:30.110
I don't agree with this either and I'm going to tell you what it is.

03:32:30.110 --> 03:32:35.870
An individual who is already grandfathered into their home, if they decide that they

03:32:35.870 --> 03:32:40.750
want to run for another position or if the chief somehow decides he's going to leave,

03:32:40.750 --> 03:32:45.469
they then would not be grandfathered in and they'd have to move their livelihood, their

03:32:45.469 --> 03:32:49.829
home, and their family back to Freeport based around it and I don't think that's right.

03:32:49.829 --> 03:32:52.069
If they're grandfathered in, leave them grandfathered in.

03:32:52.069 --> 03:32:53.489
Don't mess with them.

03:32:53.489 --> 03:32:56.430
But anybody else that comes into this city

03:32:56.430 --> 03:32:59.350
should be living in the city and their tax dollars,

03:32:59.350 --> 03:33:01.309
property tax dollars should be coming back

03:33:01.309 --> 03:33:02.649
within this community.

03:33:02.649 --> 03:33:04.709
That's the one thing I wanted to talk about.

03:33:05.670 --> 03:33:07.590
The other thing is, on the east side,

03:33:07.590 --> 03:33:09.750
I was over there doing that fire.

03:33:09.750 --> 03:33:11.989
And yeah, they did a wonderful job.

03:33:11.989 --> 03:33:13.389
But nobody's talking about the hydrants

03:33:13.389 --> 03:33:15.549
that have been removed from over there.

03:33:15.549 --> 03:33:18.729
I know of two that have been taken out.

03:33:18.729 --> 03:33:20.850
We also know that there had to be additional waters

03:33:20.850 --> 03:33:24.469
brought in because hydrants weren't working.

03:33:24.469 --> 03:33:26.409
Let's tell the truth about what is really happening

03:33:26.409 --> 03:33:27.250
in this town.

03:33:27.250 --> 03:33:28.770
We're talking about bringing in new hydrants.

03:33:28.770 --> 03:33:30.110
Where are you gonna put them?

03:33:30.110 --> 03:33:31.329
Are you gonna put them on the side of town

03:33:31.329 --> 03:33:33.209
where the hydrants weren't working?

03:33:33.209 --> 03:33:34.709
Are you gonna put them on the other side of town

03:33:34.709 --> 03:33:37.129
where they've been taken out?

03:33:37.129 --> 03:33:40.809
There's no fire hydrants in front of Bucky's shop anymore.

03:33:40.809 --> 03:33:43.510
There's no fire hydrant in front of Taylor Park School

03:33:43.510 --> 03:33:45.670
anymore, they've been removed.

03:33:45.670 --> 03:34:15.670
As far as the situation with the private road, I want to make it very clear to everybody sitting in this audience and everybody that's listening to my voice, that private road has been a private road forever, but for 30 years we thought it was a part of the city, so we've been maintaining, we've been plowing, we've been doing all of this stuff for 30 years on a road that is not a part of our city, that is a private road,

03:34:15.670 --> 03:34:21.030
asked to contribute, and not with our money, but with theirs. The fact of the matter is,

03:34:21.030 --> 03:34:24.829
we couldn't ride down that road. We couldn't drive our cars through there because it's

03:34:24.829 --> 03:34:29.909
a private road that we've been maintaining. So let's tell the truth and shame the devil

03:34:29.909 --> 03:34:34.030
because we've been maintaining that road for 30 plus years thinking it was ours and

03:34:34.030 --> 03:34:41.879
it isn't. It appears to me that everything that happens in this town, no offense, Darren,

03:34:41.879 --> 03:34:44.239
program has their fingers in it.

03:34:44.239 --> 03:34:45.920
Time is expired, thank you.

03:34:45.920 --> 03:34:47.319
Pardon me?

03:34:47.319 --> 03:34:48.520
Nobody else is speaking.

03:34:48.520 --> 03:34:50.159
Appreciate you.

03:34:50.159 --> 03:34:51.000
All right.

03:34:51.000 --> 03:34:52.020
Is there any other public comment?

03:34:52.020 --> 03:35:02.520
Yes.

03:35:03.340 --> 03:35:06.340
I wanted to say thank you for the lights that were placed.

03:35:06.340 --> 03:35:07.180
Could you please state your name?

03:35:07.180 --> 03:35:08.260
I drove down Iroquois Street.

03:35:08.260 --> 03:35:09.819
Could you please state your name for the record?

03:35:09.819 --> 03:35:11.239
General Altman.

03:35:11.239 --> 03:35:12.780
Drove down Iroquois Street.

03:35:12.780 --> 03:35:17.139
We have eight street lights on the whole street of Iroquois.

03:35:17.139 --> 03:35:19.260
Drove down Chicago and the four blacks

03:35:19.260 --> 03:35:21.860
and there's 60 street lights.

03:35:21.860 --> 03:35:24.219
and I can only assume why they're there,

03:35:24.219 --> 03:35:25.780
but we'll let that go.

03:35:27.139 --> 03:35:30.739
Also, talking about driving vehicles,

03:35:30.739 --> 03:35:34.020
I have been to Lena Made Meats in Lena

03:35:34.020 --> 03:35:37.059
and saw the city trucks, Public Works truck up there,

03:35:37.059 --> 03:35:42.719
buying meat so that you guys can have a cookout.

03:35:42.719 --> 03:35:46.280
Next, in your little pamphlet that you so gave out

03:35:46.280 --> 03:35:49.479
to the people, my renters, on the good side of town,

03:35:49.479 --> 03:35:52.239
but not on the east side of town.

03:35:52.239 --> 03:35:53.479
they didn't get any of these little flyers,

03:35:53.479 --> 03:35:56.159
this little paper that you so sent out,

03:35:56.159 --> 03:35:59.399
but that's okay because on here you're tooting your horn

03:35:59.399 --> 03:36:02.340
because you guys tore down 51 properties.

03:36:03.440 --> 03:36:05.319
It's right here in the paper,

03:36:05.319 --> 03:36:08.719
but the worst problem is after I got thinking about this,

03:36:08.719 --> 03:36:10.639
then you comment that the city's gonna buy them

03:36:10.639 --> 03:36:11.620
on the tax sale.

03:36:12.840 --> 03:36:14.219
It's all right here in black and white

03:36:14.219 --> 03:36:15.680
if you don't believe me.

03:36:15.680 --> 03:36:19.280
The worst thing is you're gonna take taxpayers money

03:36:19.280 --> 03:36:22.120
to buy this stuff and then you're gonna put houses on it

03:36:22.120 --> 03:36:25.879
to compete against the taxpayers who have property here

03:36:25.879 --> 03:36:29.879
and who are landlords.

03:36:29.879 --> 03:36:32.920
The second thing is, why am I paying taxes

03:36:32.920 --> 03:36:34.719
on my electric and gas bill for the city?

03:36:34.719 --> 03:36:36.399
What am I getting for that?

03:36:36.399 --> 03:36:39.399
I don't see anything, no roads, no nothing.

03:36:39.399 --> 03:36:41.639
And we're talking about the buses.

03:36:41.639 --> 03:36:44.040
You guys get grant money for these buses,

03:36:44.040 --> 03:36:48.170
but what do you do with the money when you sell them?

03:36:48.170 --> 03:36:49.909
No answer there either, I guess.

03:36:49.909 --> 03:37:03.770
My other thing was, your opponent that ran against you, you said that he was funded by slumlords.

03:37:03.770 --> 03:37:11.770
So in other words, you're calling anybody in here that's a landlord that funded him and voted for him a slumlord.

03:37:11.770 --> 03:37:15.770
Please take a look at yourselves, because you guys own the Raleigh Building.

03:37:15.770 --> 03:37:20.770
Wasn't it four or five years ago that we had to shut Liberty Street down because the bricks were falling?

03:37:20.770 --> 03:37:26.250
I was told by one of Wayne's employees any houses that have a hole or windows

03:37:26.250 --> 03:37:31.149
broke will be fast-tracked so why is a will why is the Raleigh building not

03:37:31.149 --> 03:37:35.290
fast-tracked that you go up and down those alleys there's thousands and

03:37:35.290 --> 03:37:40.090
thousands of broken windows glass all over and trees growing through it in the

03:37:40.090 --> 03:37:42.889
roof cave in it but that Raleigh building sits there and that's more of a

03:37:42.889 --> 03:37:49.469
hazard than anything in this free park so you know I appreciate you calling the

03:37:49.469 --> 03:37:51.229
and the people of Slumlord.

03:37:51.229 --> 03:37:54.030
It shows you how much you really care for the people of Freeport.

03:37:54.030 --> 03:37:57.850
Any other public comments?

03:37:57.850 --> 03:38:07.649
How you doing?

03:38:07.649 --> 03:38:08.649
I'm Akia Sanders.

03:38:08.649 --> 03:38:14.049
I just want to say thank you, James, for always sticking up for what you truly, truly believe

03:38:14.049 --> 03:38:16.190
in and for the people.

03:38:16.190 --> 03:38:20.549
And I don't like the fact that you guys took a lot of credit for Cecelia and Stacy fighting

03:38:20.549 --> 03:38:21.549
for those lights.

03:38:21.549 --> 03:38:23.290
I mean, I seen the chief on there.

03:38:23.290 --> 03:38:29.229
You took a little bit of credit, but nobody applauded Cecelia for bringing it and actually

03:38:29.229 --> 03:38:30.229
Dugman.

03:38:30.229 --> 03:38:36.350
And then I want to say something about that residency.

03:38:36.350 --> 03:38:43.270
The part that bothers me is that people are here that don't care, don't know people, like

03:38:43.270 --> 03:38:44.350
he said.

03:38:44.350 --> 03:38:48.709
And then the fact that you guys hired Wayne Dugman, for a matter of, I truly don't know

03:38:48.709 --> 03:38:51.549
where he is, you know, I ain't trying to offend him with that.

03:38:51.549 --> 03:38:57.049
But he came here and he walked you right into a lawsuit.

03:38:57.049 --> 03:39:03.209
is still going to pay me for what he did and use his poor judgment, disrespected the council,

03:39:03.209 --> 03:39:10.250
not brought the matter that spend city money on a property that he tore down, then he asked

03:39:10.250 --> 03:39:14.969
y'all to pay for it after the fact that it was already done.

03:39:14.969 --> 03:39:17.969
And for that, I mean, I truly don't know why he leaving, but you know.

03:39:17.969 --> 03:39:20.399
truly don't know why he leaving but you know all of a sudden you leaving now but that's

03:39:20.399 --> 03:39:26.079
a that's a great thing because you really are tearing everybody up in Freeport and Rob

03:39:26.079 --> 03:39:30.440
Boyer I don't know why you just keep cooling them for that you either you spoke on it y'all

03:39:30.440 --> 03:39:36.000
tearing people homes up y'all tearing down the history of Freeport everywhere and don't

03:39:36.000 --> 03:39:40.760
care about nobody here and then the fact that let's speak on how y'all don't never follow

03:39:40.760 --> 03:39:45.520
y'all rules I wouldn't want to live here either y'all are a mess up here more than half of

03:39:45.520 --> 03:39:50.399
Fia. Nobody knows what they're doing, dude sitting next to you. He don't never do his

03:39:50.399 --> 03:39:55.600
job until somebody calls him out and actually look him in the eye and tell him, hey, what's

03:39:55.600 --> 03:39:59.600
this mean? What's this mean? Robert's rules have been violated on this council since I've

03:39:59.600 --> 03:40:04.700
been here, since I've been coming here. You can't ask for a city ordinance to be followed

03:40:04.700 --> 03:40:10.190
if y'all ain't following them.

03:40:10.190 --> 03:40:11.489
Are there any other public comments?

03:40:11.489 --> 03:40:29.250
Hi, my name is Micaiah Stacy. I just want to ask the council for a little bit more respect.

03:40:29.250 --> 03:40:33.209
Recently, when Akia was talking, I watched Joy Sellers pick up her phone and I watched

03:40:33.209 --> 03:40:39.049
Gregory Shadle, who has his phone in his hand right now as I do, pick up his phone and scroll.

03:40:39.049 --> 03:40:43.489
And I know a couple weeks ago, there was a comment made that I don't work for the city

03:40:43.489 --> 03:40:48.569
or something of that sort. You do. You are elected and you get a paycheck from the city

03:40:48.569 --> 03:40:54.809
and our taxes pay for it. So I'm just asking, when we're talking, please listen. I know

03:40:54.809 --> 03:40:58.450
you don't want to be here. It's been what, three and a half hours or whatever. I've been

03:40:58.450 --> 03:41:03.170
up since 6 a.m. to I don't want to be here but in order for us to feel like

03:41:03.170 --> 03:41:06.549
we're being listened to and feel like we're respected I ask that you give

03:41:06.549 --> 03:41:13.850
your undivided attention thank you any other public comments and I will

03:41:13.850 --> 03:41:19.129
entertain a motion for adjournment second we have a motion by Alderman

03:41:19.129 --> 03:41:26.250
Sellers seconded by Alderman Shadle all those in favor have a good evening