WEBVTT

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and Tom.

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

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Let us bow our heads. Dear God, I praise you and I thank you for your love, mercy and grace

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and that you see all you hear all and know all your word says and thus the Lord builds the house the builders labor in vain unless the Lord watches over the city the guards stand watch in vain therefore we come to you tonight to seek your face and ask you to build and guard our city pour out your spirit of knowledge and revelation over those who are seated here may all things done tonight be connected in a state of justice fulfillment and delight free from defects

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and

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I release Luke 2436, peace, shalom to you all, in Jesus name, amen.

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Amen.

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Amen.

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and before I officially call this meeting to order, I want to remind this council that

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we have been elected to serve the residents of Freeport, not to push personal agendas

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or create unnecessary distractions.

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Our job is to focus on policy, infrastructure, economic development, and public safety.

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That is the purpose of these meetings.

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City Council's role is to set the vision and the direction for Freeport.

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It is the City Manager's role to implement that vision by directing our staff and allocating

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and

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Hire to do their jobs. The antagonistic tone and the constant personal attacks

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towards staff and leadership are unacceptable. We need to remain

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professional, keep our discussions on topic, and conduct city

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business efficiently. Personal grievances, unfounded accusations, combative behavior,

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and disorder have no place in these chambers. I would encourage all of us to

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lead by example, work together, and to stay committed to the task at hand which

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

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and Sellers.

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and if you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, slide by Alderman Parker.

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Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

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and

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Mr.

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Dixie, and I'm going to turn it over to the

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Chair.

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Item number one is the approval of the agenda. However, we will

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not be having item number 23, which is executive. And then also

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just so you're aware, we're slightly out of order tonight.

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Normally, it's our rules that we go second reading of ordinances,

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first three ordinances and resolutions.

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with that is there a motion to approve the agenda? So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Monroe,

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seconded by Alderman Sellers. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion

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passes. Item number two is the approval of the minutes from the regular meeting on February 18th,

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2025. Is there a motion? So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman

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Parker. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes. Public

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comment. We have two. Bill Schramm, you have three minutes.

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I'll give you a little bit of background. Some of you I know, some of you I don't know.

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I'm a resident of Freeport. My parents moved here when I was 10 years old and I've lived

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and I have lived here most of my life except for a couple years. I spent with the United

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States Government called the U.S. Army. But I am here tonight to say I am pleased to see

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the City of Freeport is taking steps to secure our community's water future with the purchase

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of the property for well 12. The City's commitment providing safe, clean drinking water is evident

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in the speed and efficiency with which they are getting the job done.

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From the lead service line remediation efforts to the construction of the new water treatment

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plant on Burchard Hill, the City has demonstrated a clear dedication to protecting public health

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and modernizing our water infrastructure. The progress made in such a short time is

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and I fully support these efforts to ensure a reliable and substantial water supply for

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our community. Thank you so much.

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Thank you. Next, Wendy Slayton. You have three minutes.

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Hello. My name is Wendy Slayton. I am a current resident of Freeport, Illinois and I am very

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Very happy to be here. I love Freeport and everything that it's done. I'm currently

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on a community block grant and I am very, very anxious for it to go further. But right

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now we're talking about the MSA. The MSA is definitely a good idea for all of us for

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the residents of Freeport. It improves the quality of life for the current residents

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by ensuring homes are safe, sanitary, and structurally sound. It also attracts and retains

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responsible homeowners the investment demonstrates and the commitment to the

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well-being of our neighborhoods making Freeport a more desirable place to live

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number three strengthening our community homeownership fosters a sense of pride

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and stability leading to greater civic engagement and more cohesive community

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number four increasing community value rehabilitation of our homes increases

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the property values in the area thus improving the overall value of the

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and

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Mr.

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D.

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D.

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D.

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D.

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D.

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D.

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is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion, unless there's a member of the council that would like to have something removed for further discussion.

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Seeing none, we've got the consent agenda consisting of approving to receive and place on file the board and commission minutes from the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners dated January 28th, 2025,

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the Greater Freeport Partnerships Annual Report for 2024, the Police Department Report January 25, Greater Freeport Partnerships Monthly Report for February 2025,

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and

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James,

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Greg,

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and the approval of payroll for pay period ending February 22nd, 2025, in the total of $709,166.14. Is there a motion to approve?

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Shadel, Seconded by Alderman Klemm. Discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

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Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye.

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Simmons? Aye. The motion passes 8 to 0. Item number 5 is a presentation. Could you

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please read this for the record? Presentation regarding resolution to

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For the Illinois Housing Development Authority or IDA, Home Repair and Accessibility Program for up to $1.2 million.

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Thank you. Tara Walters, thank you.

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Thank you. Good evening Mayor Miller, City Council Members, as well as City staff.

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My name is Tara Wal- Can't you hear me?

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Yeah, thank you.

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How about now? Better?

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Yep.

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is Tara Walters. I'm a Community Development Administrator with MSA

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Professional Services. I'm here with my colleague Christina Tranel who is a

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Community Development Specialist. We are here to provide the City Council with

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information regarding Ida's Home Repair and Accessibility Grant Program that is

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open now. So some program basics. Applications are due

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and John. Applications are due March 14th of this year at 3 p.m., so I understand that

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is 10 to 11 days away, which I'll call it a trap from here on out throughout the presentation

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for shortness sake. The program is designed to assist low and very low income homeowners,

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which is defined at less than or greater, sorry, less than or equal to 80% of the area

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Johnson, John, John, David, and the rest of the city.

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In addition to providing high and medium-median income, the

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program will provide funds for vital health and safety repairs

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and accessibility improvements. The program aims to preserve

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existing affordable housing stock, to provide investment and

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underserved communities, improve the health and well-being of

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occupants, and to help low-income and disabled or

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and Ida's Home Repair and Accessibility Grant Program.

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This current round is offering 16 million

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in funding available.

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The funding comes from the Illinois

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Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

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And applicants, so the city of Freeport,

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if they were to apply, they can request a minimum of 400,000.

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The program guidelines do not specify a maximum ceiling,

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but we'll talk about that in our presentation.

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And the program is a two-year program term.

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So if awarded, the city would have two years to spend the funds.

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For definition purposes, I'd just like to outline what the eligible project costs are,

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because we'll talk about them in more detail.

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First being hard construction costs, your typical construction expenses, tangible brick

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and mortar type costs.

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There's also soft construction costs, which examples include title searches, recording

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Fies, Termite or Insect Inspections. There's also project delivery, which includes activities

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in taking applications from participants in the program and homeowners, some income verification,

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cost estimates and work write-ups once inspectors get involved, as well as the inspections themselves

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and permit fees. And there's also administrative costs that are grant eligible, and this includes

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and others, general management, oversight, project management, coordination, grant reporting,

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overhead costs.

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Through the program, there are three project types, full rehab, accessibility, and roof

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only.

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I've lumped full rehab and accessibility together because the same criteria follow for both

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programs.

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Under full rehab and accessibility, homeowners may receive up to $50,000 from the HREP program

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Knotts, and Ryan.

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So those are the 5,000 people who are

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funding the Lin-N creef funds to cover hard and soft

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construction.

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They also can get project delivery costs per home, not

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exceeding 15% of the construction costs.

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So if you're at the 50,000, 15% of that would be 7,500.

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If costs do not meet 50,000, it would be 15% of whatever those

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and John.

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We also have a loan which is forgiven at one-sixtieth per month over the loan period.

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There's also a roof-only option.

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So if homeowners just need a roof, everything else is up to code and public health and safety

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standards are met within the home and on the exterior.

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These homeowners can receive up to $25,000 for the roof, again, project delivery is at

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15 percent, and the assistance for roof-only option is given as a form of a three-year

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Forgivable Loan.

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So the maximum grant request for the city

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for the roof only option would be $28,750 per home.

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So what makes a property within the city eligible

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to participate with these funds?

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The property must be the sole residence

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of all homeowners on the deed.

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The property must be current on the mortgage.

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The property value must not exceed the property value limit

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which is established by IDA and for Stevenson County,

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it's 209,000.

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The property must be held in fee simple title,

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meaning no contract for deed

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and no ownership held in trust.

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The title must also be clear of mechanics liens

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and tax liens.

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A property is ineligible if taxes have been sold

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to a tax buyer and properties with open foreclosure

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or for Closure cases are also ineligible.

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The property must be able to record the item mortgage

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on the property and it also must be owner occupied

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and single family residence.

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What are some ineligible property types?

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No reverse mortgages, no investment properties,

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again, no ownership in a trust or contract for deed situation,

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no properties that are primarily used for business,

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Meaning that 50% or more of the floor space

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within the residence is used for business.

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And then also the IDA mortgage,

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so this five-year or three-year forgivable loan

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must be the first or the second position lien

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on the property.

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In certain circumstances, we can get written approval

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depending on those circumstances from IDA

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to allow the IDA mortgage to be the third lien.

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And lastly, ineligible properties involving

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and many others.

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The grantee must be avoided at all costs.

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For example, the grantee being the City of Freeport may not enroll an employee's house

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in their HRAP program.

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So what does this forgivable loan look like to the homeowner?

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The homeowner does not have to pay back the loan at any period unless they sell the house

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or the ownership is transferred.

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So the loan balance will be due out at the net proceeds upon sale or transfer of the

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property if such an event occurs within that five-year or three-year time frame.

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The cash out, a cashing out will not be permitted during the loan period unless the unforgiven

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loan balance is paid in full.

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And then loans will be secured by a mortgage recorded against the property.

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So all homeowners will be required to sign a forgivable five-year or three-year promissory

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Renote based on the project type and construction costs with IDA.

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In terms of application scoring criteria, so what is IDA looking for?

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This is a competitive grant program.

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There is 16 million available statewide.

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So we have to convince the Illinois Housing Development Authority that the City of Freeport

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deserves this money and can use it wisely.

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and they will score it based on organization

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and team capacity.

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So that would include the City of Freeport's

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previous management and team experience

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with housing rehabilitation type programs.

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The points will be awarded for this criteria

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that clearly show a team is in place

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to effectively administer and oversee the program.

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If the staff or city does not have the capacity

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to effectively administer the program,

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they can contract with a third party contractor

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who does have said experience.

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and

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the City of Washington. It is also scored on the City's work

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plan and budget and cost control. Just ensuring that your program

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is cost effective and you have a reasonable budget. Again, the

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reasonable budget comes into play. The city would only have

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two years to spend these funds. So feasibly, how much can we get

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done in two years? So points would be awarded under this

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criteria for applicants that demonstrate a systematic

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and others. Third criteria is program need, impact, and demand. So the application needs

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to provide evidence supporting the need and the demand for the program, including data

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analysis, letters of support, and evidence of community input. And then lastly, readiness

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to proceed. If IDA were to turn around and say, yep, here's your money, how quickly

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can you you know mobilize and hit the ground running and administer your

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program. If the city decides to apply some recommendations on how that

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application package would be in discussions with you know Director

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Duckman I would recommend that you request the full rehab project type

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and

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Dupont.

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We are working on a new type of

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type instead of giving it out based on accessibility and roof

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only.

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This allows for the most flexibility when you are

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actually administering the program.

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If we apply for 17 full rehab projects and we get into the

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weeds and figure out this homeowner actually needs more

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accessibility type activity or work done to their house, we

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can always transfer it to an accessibility project type.

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and

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2-year loan for the city.

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We will try to make sure that they can get a loan for the

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city.

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We will try to find out after inspections.

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They only need a roof.

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We can always transfer the project to a 3-year forgiveable

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loan with a roof only.

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And my recommendation for how many homes, I believe the city

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would be able to feasibly get done in two years would be 17

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homes.

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What that looks like budget-wise or a budget

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request would be the construction.

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and

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the rest of the district.

00:19:51.600 --> 00:19:53.600
The next item is the

00:19:54.720 --> 00:19:57.600
$1,000,000 per home for a full rehab project type. That would

00:19:57.600 --> 00:20:03.079
allow for project delivery, 15% of construction at 127,500.

00:20:03.079 --> 00:20:05.079
Additionally, administration, grant administration would be

00:20:05.079 --> 00:20:07.079
another 48,875.

00:20:07.079 --> 00:20:12.839
The number of grants received is $45,875, which is 5% of your construction and project

00:20:12.839 --> 00:20:20.240
delivery requests, totaling a total grant request at $1,026,375.

00:20:20.240 --> 00:20:29.359
So what does this look like if the City were awarded and how, you know, the steps it takes

00:20:29.359 --> 00:20:31.639
to get to construction?

00:20:31.639 --> 00:20:38.399
So IDA, the applications are due in March. IDA intends to review applications until June

00:20:38.399 --> 00:20:43.919
or July. Once awards are announced, the programs will get, you know, their grant agreement

00:20:43.919 --> 00:20:50.240
and be able to start doing the work and expending funds in August of 2025. So that gives us

00:20:50.240 --> 00:20:56.480
till July of 2027. So what does the participant selection process look like? Who is going

00:20:56.480 --> 00:21:01.039
to get these funds or benefit from these funds from the city.

00:21:01.039 --> 00:21:03.619
So the grant is awarded to the city.

00:21:03.619 --> 00:21:06.199
The city can then contract with the third party vendor

00:21:06.199 --> 00:21:07.740
to administer the program.

00:21:09.019 --> 00:21:12.720
That's when the third party administrator would work

00:21:12.720 --> 00:21:16.359
with the city to develop a participant selection plan.

00:21:16.359 --> 00:21:19.119
Once you develop your participant selection plan,

00:21:19.119 --> 00:21:21.839
there are things within that plan that are already

00:21:21.839 --> 00:21:23.839
and

00:21:24.919 --> 00:21:26.919
the City of Washington.

00:21:28.819 --> 00:21:31.919
The city of Washington is not only recommended but required by

00:21:31.919 --> 00:21:35.679
IDA, but we can play around with the details in terms of media,

00:21:35.679 --> 00:21:37.679
outreach, application intake, things like that.

00:21:40.579 --> 00:21:42.879
Once we develop our participant selection plan, it's sent to IDA

00:21:42.879 --> 00:21:46.879
for review to ensure that it complies with regulations.

00:21:46.879 --> 00:21:48.879
We then, once they approve that, we can market the program to

00:21:48.879 --> 00:22:18.879
Any homeowner that contacts the city wants seeing, you know, the social media posts or letter in the mail. However, the city decides to market the program. They would be put on a list on a first come first serve basis in order of correspondence. Then the administrator would take that list and have everyone on that list fill out a pre-application form, which is very basic information. You know, what they believe they make for income, how many people in the household, you know, are you current on your mortgage, things like that.

00:22:18.879 --> 00:22:30.879
and others like that. Once the pre-application forms are in, we then can begin scheduling interviews, and that's when eligibility will really become important or will determine homeowner eligibility.

00:22:30.879 --> 00:22:43.879
So IDA has a process in which to schedule interviews to make it fair. They would involve three calls or emails within 48 hours in the order that you have in your intended participant list.

00:22:43.879 --> 00:23:13.879
and others. If no response within that 48 hours, you would send a certified letter in the mail after 10 days and still no response. You would then remove that participant from the interested participant list and they essentially forfeit their ability to use program funds. And we would also send a letter informing them that they've been removed from the list. If you are able to get a hold of somebody, you then schedule an interview.

00:23:13.879 --> 00:23:43.879
and Ida, and the last time we do a review is when we determine income. And income is calculated based on Ida's income calculator as well as a level of home inspection. So the home inspection is important because when I would be there, you know, in taking everybody's income information, figuring out which documents we need in order to process this, the income calculations after I would finish them would be sent to Ida to review. So we would get the final

00:23:43.879 --> 00:23:49.799
and I will say from IDA, but the home inspection, we only have $50,000 and priority has to go

00:23:49.799 --> 00:23:55.339
to code violations and public health and safety type work.

00:23:55.339 --> 00:24:00.119
So the home inspection would be important simply because if a home needs a lot more

00:24:00.119 --> 00:24:09.440
than $50,000 to bring it up to code, it's just not a feasible project for these funds.

00:24:09.440 --> 00:24:10.440
and more.

00:24:10.440 --> 00:24:14.319
Once the income calculations are approved by IDA, the city would then take them and rank

00:24:14.319 --> 00:24:20.399
them, determining participant eligibility and then moving forward with program administration.

00:24:20.399 --> 00:24:26.440
A note at the bottom, once the city does submit their participant selection plan, it can be

00:24:26.440 --> 00:24:27.440
amended.

00:24:27.440 --> 00:24:32.960
So say this is our plan, we're doing this, and something isn't working any longer, something

00:24:32.960 --> 00:24:38.240
that's not going to jeopardize the fairness of the participant selection, but maybe something

00:24:38.240 --> 00:24:46.940
and the process that needs to change, we can always amend it with IDA approval.

00:24:46.940 --> 00:24:54.079
A little more information on the income calculator, so how does IDA calculate income?

00:24:54.079 --> 00:24:58.240
It's calculated for all household members over the age of 18.

00:24:58.240 --> 00:25:03.400
Income includes earned income, so the full amount before any payroll deductions of wages

00:25:03.399 --> 00:25:04.139
and

00:25:04.139 --> 00:25:04.739
more.

00:25:04.739 --> 00:25:07.399
The income calculator also takes into consideration

00:25:07.399 --> 00:25:12.219
the cost of living expenses and salaries, overtime pay,

00:25:12.219 --> 00:25:16.500
commissions, fees, tips and bonuses and other compensation

00:25:16.500 --> 00:25:18.419
for personal services.

00:25:18.419 --> 00:25:22.079
It also includes assets, which is derived income,

00:25:22.079 --> 00:25:25.199
such as checking and savings account balances, certificates

00:25:25.199 --> 00:25:29.099
of deposit, stocks, value of home, et cetera,

00:25:29.099 --> 00:25:32.699
as well as unearned income, so benefits, including pensions,

00:25:32.699 --> 00:25:45.980
Bates, and a number of dependents, child care deductions, disability, elderly, and disabled.

00:25:45.980 --> 00:25:53.219
The application due March 14th asks the applicant to describe your procedures and mechanisms

00:25:53.219 --> 00:25:58.460
for intake and selection, including how your organization will prioritize eligible participants

00:25:58.460 --> 00:26:00.259
in your program.

00:26:00.259 --> 00:26:06.219
If the City moves forward with the application, I would recommend to stay in line with IDA's

00:26:06.219 --> 00:26:13.219
recommendations by prioritizing households or homeowners that have a household income

00:26:13.219 --> 00:26:19.099
of less than or equal to 50% of the area median income.

00:26:19.099 --> 00:26:24.699
This would not only ease the administrative burden and some of the administrative costs

00:26:24.699 --> 00:26:26.699
and the City of Wisconsin.

00:26:26.699 --> 00:26:29.699
So, we have a lot of opportunities to process the

00:26:29.699 --> 00:26:32.699
number of applications when it's open citywide.

00:26:32.699 --> 00:26:36.699
It would also prioritize the most in-need homeowners and

00:26:36.699 --> 00:26:42.699
households. So, what is 50% area median income?

00:26:42.699 --> 00:26:47.699
So, Stevenson County, one person household is $28,500.

00:26:47.699 --> 00:26:51.699
Two person household, $32,600. And so on and so forth.

00:26:51.699 --> 00:27:00.420
Household is $53,750 and again people in the household are only people over 18. So

00:27:00.420 --> 00:27:06.559
then if we have so say we're doing 17 homes we're going to write the

00:27:06.559 --> 00:27:10.500
application and request 17 homes however if one of the homes is less than

00:27:10.500 --> 00:27:16.659
50,000 we could always you know add to it and this process allows for that to

00:27:16.659 --> 00:27:21.259
happen so if more than 17 participants are eligible in this less than 50%

00:27:21.259 --> 00:27:23.259
and

00:27:24.359 --> 00:27:26.359
the City of Santa Barbara.

00:27:28.179 --> 00:27:30.179
The city would hold a lottery to determine the recipient of those

00:27:30.179 --> 00:27:33.940
funds. If less than 17 participants are eligible, we

00:27:33.940 --> 00:27:37.319
would then bump up the income threshold to less than or equal

00:27:37.319 --> 00:27:45.179
to 80%, which is, you know, viable or recommended by IDA.

00:27:45.179 --> 00:27:50.139
And that way, if houses are done, we use less than $50,000, so

00:27:50.139 --> 00:28:03.500
Lewis, the lottery system would ensure that the eligible participants are fairly considered.

00:28:03.500 --> 00:28:04.500
Any questions?

00:28:04.500 --> 00:28:05.500
Any questions?

00:28:05.500 --> 00:28:06.500
Yes.

00:28:06.500 --> 00:28:07.500
Darren?

00:28:07.500 --> 00:28:10.500
Hi Tara, how are you?

00:28:10.500 --> 00:28:12.500
Good, how are you?

00:28:12.500 --> 00:28:13.500
Good presentation.

00:28:13.500 --> 00:28:14.500
Thanks.

00:28:14.500 --> 00:28:19.480
I would like a couple of clarifications just for city questions.

00:28:19.480 --> 00:28:24.119
Can any of the money be spent in the flood zone or a floodway?

00:28:24.119 --> 00:28:25.119
In a floodway?

00:28:25.119 --> 00:28:27.400
A floodway or a flood zone.

00:28:27.400 --> 00:28:31.879
Freeport has quite a few homes that are in the floodway, so I think I know the answer.

00:28:31.879 --> 00:28:34.319
I just wanted to ask that out loud.

00:28:34.319 --> 00:28:35.319
Sure.

00:28:35.319 --> 00:28:40.319
I do not have that answer on hand right now, but I will definitely research it and provide

00:28:40.319 --> 00:28:42.279
it to the city.

00:28:42.279 --> 00:28:43.559
Okay.

00:28:43.559 --> 00:28:50.000
Another question I had is this for only owner-occupied properties, not landlords, correct?

00:28:50.000 --> 00:28:51.000
Correct.

00:28:51.000 --> 00:28:58.279
And I think you stated this, but let's pretend that a house has a value of only $10,000 and

00:28:58.279 --> 00:29:00.759
$50,000 won't bring it up to code.

00:29:00.759 --> 00:29:03.759
They will not end up qualifying for the program, correct?

00:29:03.759 --> 00:29:04.759
Correct.

00:29:04.759 --> 00:29:05.759
Thank you.

00:29:05.759 --> 00:29:09.319
With recommendation from a certified housing inspector.

00:29:09.319 --> 00:29:10.319
Yep.

00:29:10.319 --> 00:29:13.039
Thank you.

00:29:13.039 --> 00:29:20.039
Any other questions? Alderman, Stacy?

00:29:20.039 --> 00:29:26.400
Why did we, if this was something we wanted to consider, why didn't we start on the 21st?

00:29:26.400 --> 00:29:30.960
Why are we starting 11 days behind?

00:29:30.960 --> 00:29:37.719
Sure. The program information, it opened up on February 5th. I got the information out

00:29:37.719 --> 00:29:44.079
to the city. We didn't talk about it seriously until probably last week or the

00:29:44.079 --> 00:29:48.399
week before when we were talking about housing rehab efforts within the city

00:29:48.399 --> 00:29:53.339
and that's when Wayne and I said yep this is something we need to take to

00:29:53.339 --> 00:29:59.000
council. It's an opportunity that's out there. We need to be ready to go for it

00:29:59.000 --> 00:30:05.480
if the council so chooses. So I also want to add there too that that would be six

00:30:05.480 --> 00:30:07.480
Weeks, Ida Gives,

00:30:07.480 --> 00:30:37.480
Six weeks IDA gives the community to make a decision to apply, they call it a notice of applications or notice of funding opportunity and that came out on February 5th and so Taryn and I had several conversations about grant capacity, the Community Development Block Grant, where we were at with that current efforts and ultimately we were talking about bringing it to the last council meeting in February

00:30:37.480 --> 00:31:07.480
I want to thank you, Tara. You did an excellent job with this presentation. We felt that we should, it would be better to come better prepared March 3rd. We worked, you know, I know typically this council has a lot of questions. So we really wanted to make sure working on this presentation. We didn't want to be hasty and not have answers. So give you a lot of credit, Tara, for coming out and really putting a lot of effort into this presentation. So that's the reason why we were going to do it.

00:31:07.480 --> 00:31:12.559
and the last meeting, but we felt we needed to gather more information to present it today.

00:31:12.559 --> 00:31:15.160
Alderman Stacy, did you have a follow-up?

00:31:15.160 --> 00:31:22.400
So it's going to cost us $6,500 to go after this money, but there's no guarantee that

00:31:22.400 --> 00:31:24.920
we will even get a penny.

00:31:24.920 --> 00:31:26.200
Correct.

00:31:26.200 --> 00:31:29.160
That's typical of any grant.

00:31:29.160 --> 00:31:30.160
Alderman Monroe.

00:31:30.160 --> 00:31:31.160
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:31:31.160 --> 00:31:33.799
I've got several questions here I'd like to get through.

00:31:33.799 --> 00:31:34.799
Sure.

00:31:34.799 --> 00:31:50.799
I would recommend it be MSA because we've worked with the city on existing housing rehab programs. So in terms of an experienced grant administrator, it would behoove the city to work with somebody else.

00:31:50.799 --> 00:31:51.799
Awesome.

00:31:51.799 --> 00:31:57.799
It is not the city is able to work with whomever. I would just recommend it be with MSA.

00:31:57.799 --> 00:32:02.279
that sounds great so the way I understood your presentation that this

00:32:02.279 --> 00:32:06.759
could apply to new home builds such as maybe you know maybe tiny homes or

00:32:06.759 --> 00:32:12.759
manufactured homes that are put on empty lots in our community is that correct?

00:32:12.759 --> 00:32:18.920
That is correct there is a new home property value threshold as well the

00:32:18.920 --> 00:32:25.120
existing home was 209,000 and there is a new home number I believe it's it's more

00:32:25.120 --> 00:32:25.759
and

00:32:25.759 --> 00:32:26.759
John.

00:32:26.759 --> 00:32:27.759
Okay.

00:32:27.759 --> 00:32:28.759
But I can pull that.

00:32:28.759 --> 00:32:29.759
And.

00:32:29.759 --> 00:32:30.759
Not on this computer.

00:32:30.759 --> 00:32:31.759
That's fair enough.

00:32:31.759 --> 00:32:33.039
If you want to pull that up.

00:32:33.039 --> 00:32:35.360
This next one should be pretty easy.

00:32:35.360 --> 00:32:38.079
Who's authorized to do the home inspections?

00:32:38.079 --> 00:32:40.559
Does the person go out and get their own home inspector?

00:32:40.559 --> 00:32:42.000
Does the city?

00:32:42.000 --> 00:32:43.000
How do we do that?

00:32:43.000 --> 00:32:46.860
So when you do contract with a third party grant administrator such as MSA, we would

00:32:46.860 --> 00:32:50.840
sub-consult with a lead certified housing inspector.

00:32:50.840 --> 00:32:53.920
Okay, thank you.

00:32:53.920 --> 00:32:54.920
Any other questions?

00:32:54.920 --> 00:33:04.480
Yes, does this have anything to do with why the city wanted to purchase that property that

00:33:04.480 --> 00:33:11.720
was brought to the council last meeting, City Manager Boyer?

00:33:11.720 --> 00:33:14.140
Not specifically.

00:33:14.140 --> 00:33:19.680
Not specifically, I don't understand that answer.

00:33:19.680 --> 00:33:23.599
Well if it can be used for something like this, I don't, you know, infill housing, that'd

00:33:23.599 --> 00:33:24.599
Dixie.

00:33:24.599 --> 00:33:25.599
That's a good question.

00:33:25.599 --> 00:33:27.880
I think it would be great use for it, but that wasn't specifically what we were getting

00:33:27.880 --> 00:33:28.880
it for.

00:33:28.880 --> 00:33:32.039
It was either infill housing or some commercial property development.

00:33:32.039 --> 00:33:33.279
Okay.

00:33:33.279 --> 00:33:42.799
I also noticed that Brittany had already signed, the team leader had already signed.

00:33:42.799 --> 00:33:47.720
That's typical practice for the professional services agreements we send to clients.

00:33:47.720 --> 00:33:51.960
That means it's been reviewed at the MSA level and we're ready to move forward once

00:33:51.960 --> 00:33:56.960
and the City makes a decision and executes the contract.

00:33:56.960 --> 00:34:09.960
What's going to be in play to keep from having another incident like 1010 South Adams?

00:34:09.960 --> 00:34:11.960
She would have no idea what you're talking about there.

00:34:11.960 --> 00:34:13.960
Yes, she does. She was here.

00:34:13.960 --> 00:34:20.960
Well, I can answer that. There's different guidelines for IDA, which I thought you did an excellent job talking about how IDA

00:34:20.960 --> 00:34:50.960
Ida has its own calculator right there, and you can go look at how they actually calculate what income is, and that's it. Ida sends a spreadsheet, there's the link, they fill in the spreadsheet based on the data that's given to them, and if they fall within the parameters of area, median, income, they qualify for the grant, and that's what Ida looks at, Ida reviews it, and you gotta remember, Ida's talking about the state of Illinois and helping out people, which is really what this grant is about.

00:34:50.960 --> 00:34:51.960
Fowler.

00:34:51.960 --> 00:34:59.519
There's no, you know, MSA and TARA approached me about this grant opportunity and it's really

00:34:59.519 --> 00:35:01.559
to bring help to people that are in need.

00:35:01.559 --> 00:35:07.320
They live in their homes, they're low income, and you know, no government program is perfect,

00:35:07.320 --> 00:35:12.360
but they've been doing this for a long time and they have a standardized form and it's

00:35:12.360 --> 00:35:19.519
really just meant to get people in the most need, the help that they can.

00:35:19.519 --> 00:35:25.400
time, the need is going to extend past what is available. You know, we're going to request

00:35:25.400 --> 00:35:29.760
up to a million dollars. We may not get up to a million dollars. You might only get $400,000.

00:35:29.760 --> 00:35:34.280
But should we stop? Should we quit? I mean, somebody is going to need these funds. We just

00:35:34.280 --> 00:35:38.960
had a community member up here, Wendy Slayton. She's telling you that the community is telling

00:35:38.960 --> 00:35:43.880
you we need help. Should we stop because you know what, we don't have enough money and

00:35:43.880 --> 00:35:49.360
just say we're not going to do 17 homes or 10 homes because we can't bring aid to everybody?

00:35:49.360 --> 00:35:51.159
I think it's worth trying.

00:35:51.159 --> 00:35:53.480
I think it's something you should look into yourself

00:35:53.480 --> 00:35:55.000
and think that it's probably worth trying

00:35:55.000 --> 00:35:56.199
to help our community.

00:35:56.199 --> 00:36:01.199
Director Duckman, you were the first person

00:36:02.840 --> 00:36:07.059
pertaining to that other grant that said

00:36:07.059 --> 00:36:09.679
you would never go after another grant

00:36:11.139 --> 00:36:14.159
because you don't want the responsibility.

00:36:14.159 --> 00:36:17.239
You didn't want the responsibility of the last one.

00:36:17.239 --> 00:36:20.480
that's why it fell in others hands.

00:36:20.480 --> 00:36:22.599
I don't, I deny it saying it that.

00:36:22.599 --> 00:36:24.119
Of course you would.

00:36:24.119 --> 00:36:26.420
Let's not throw unfounded accusations.

00:36:26.420 --> 00:36:31.420
But now it's like the people and if we can only help

00:36:32.000 --> 00:36:34.840
this many compared to that many.

00:36:34.840 --> 00:36:37.920
Well, I mean, it's pretty clear what the IDA guidelines are

00:36:37.920 --> 00:36:42.920
and I'm trying to bring an opportunity

00:36:42.960 --> 00:36:45.280
to help the community and if honestly,

00:36:45.280 --> 00:36:50.400
and I'm being very respectful here and saying if this council thinks that IDA has unfair

00:36:50.400 --> 00:36:54.119
practices maybe it's just not the right grant for our community if that's what you're saying.

00:36:54.119 --> 00:36:59.440
I mean if you feel that way I'm being very honest but I'm telling you that I believe

00:36:59.440 --> 00:37:03.159
in my role is to bring as much aid as I can to the community and I think this is a good

00:37:03.159 --> 00:37:05.920
program and I think it could help.

00:37:05.920 --> 00:37:08.199
I think we can bring some aid to our community.

00:37:08.199 --> 00:37:13.720
I'm not down speaking IDA at all.

00:37:13.720 --> 00:37:19.720
But now all we have is 11 days. If it was so important, why you didn't come?

00:37:19.720 --> 00:37:27.159
It's just the application is 11 days. This whole process, the grant award will probably

00:37:27.159 --> 00:37:33.039
come at some point. IDA will make its decision. Right now what we're talking about is $6,500

00:37:33.039 --> 00:37:39.559
to retain MSA to write the grant application. And IDA will review it and they'll make a

00:37:39.559 --> 00:37:42.559
And make the clear that any of those programs will be run through December from the beginning of October, and October 3rd will come after that.

00:37:42.559 --> 00:37:51.559
So that sets up the process, and then the city will take a determination on whether the city can move forward, and then there will be plenty of time for marketing this program, processing applications, determining income.

00:37:51.559 --> 00:37:53.559
All this is being talked about today is to write the grant.

00:37:53.559 --> 00:37:54.559
Let me just...

00:37:54.559 --> 00:37:56.559
It's writing the grant application.

00:37:56.559 --> 00:38:04.420
Program, and I think I agree with you, Wayne, so many people out there that is really looking

00:38:04.420 --> 00:38:09.720
for help to get their roofs done, their windows done, doors done, whatever they can get done

00:38:09.720 --> 00:38:15.400
to their homes. But I also think that, you know, we got to look at if there's grants

00:38:15.400 --> 00:38:20.039
out there that we can go after and help, that's what we're supposed to be doing. I guess that's

00:38:20.039 --> 00:38:25.539
what his department is supposed to be doing. So I do think that is something that we need

00:38:25.539 --> 00:38:31.980
to go after and help people in our community because it goes all over the city of Freeport,

00:38:31.980 --> 00:38:32.980
correct?

00:38:32.980 --> 00:38:33.980
Correct.

00:38:33.980 --> 00:38:36.300
So anybody, that other grant just went for a certain area.

00:38:36.300 --> 00:38:38.980
This can go anywhere, so anybody can get help.

00:38:38.980 --> 00:38:43.180
So I think it's a good idea, I really do.

00:38:43.180 --> 00:38:44.180
Alderman Klemm?

00:38:44.180 --> 00:38:51.539
I just have one question, and it was the fact of reaching out to people after the grants

00:38:51.539 --> 00:38:54.400
were selected and so on and so forth.

00:38:54.400 --> 00:39:14.400
Are there extra grants selected in case somebody falls out from not being able to be, well it was listed more so as sending them out a letter or three phone calls or three emails or something like that because we all know some people in these positions might be hard to get a hold of also.

00:39:14.400 --> 00:39:19.400
Does that just go by the wayside then or is there another person that takes that place?

00:39:19.400 --> 00:39:37.400
We would have a list, our intended participant list, that would likely have a lot more folks than we need to reach out to, so once, you know, once we don't get, we go through the appropriate processes and don't get a response for somebody, we just move on down to the next one.

00:39:37.400 --> 00:39:39.400
Thank you.

00:39:39.400 --> 00:39:43.400
Any other discussion?

00:39:43.400 --> 00:39:45.400
Thank you for your presentation.

00:39:45.400 --> 00:39:52.400
We move on to item number 6, which is the adoption of resolution 2025-30. Madam Clerk, could you please read this for the record?

00:39:52.400 --> 00:40:02.400
Resolution to approve an agreement with MFMSA Professional Services to provide IDA Home Repair and Accessibility Program grant writing services.

00:40:02.400 --> 00:40:03.400
Director Duckman.

00:40:03.400 --> 00:40:05.400
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:40:05.400 --> 00:40:07.400
So what this resolution would

00:40:07.400 --> 00:40:10.760
So what this resolution is discussing

00:40:10.760 --> 00:40:13.920
is moving forward with MSA.

00:40:13.920 --> 00:40:16.420
We just saw their presentation, and it

00:40:16.420 --> 00:40:19.880
would be in the amount of $6,500 for them

00:40:19.880 --> 00:40:23.880
to write a grant application for the IDA Home

00:40:23.880 --> 00:40:25.340
Repair and Accessibility Program.

00:40:25.340 --> 00:40:28.880
And staff recommends moving forward with the resolution.

00:40:28.880 --> 00:40:30.240
Is there a motion to adopt?

00:40:30.240 --> 00:40:31.000
So moved.

00:40:31.000 --> 00:40:31.800
Second.

00:40:31.800 --> 00:40:34.559
We have a motion made by Alderman Parker,

00:40:34.559 --> 00:40:38.639
Seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the resolution.

00:40:40.440 --> 00:40:43.000
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

00:40:43.000 --> 00:40:44.200
Excuse me, Parker?

00:40:44.200 --> 00:40:45.039
Aye.

00:40:45.039 --> 00:40:45.860
Stacy?

00:40:49.559 --> 00:40:50.400
No.

00:40:50.400 --> 00:40:51.220
Shadle?

00:40:51.220 --> 00:40:52.059
Aye.

00:40:52.059 --> 00:40:52.900
Sanders?

00:40:52.900 --> 00:40:53.720
No.

00:40:53.720 --> 00:40:54.559
Sellers?

00:40:54.559 --> 00:40:55.400
Aye.

00:40:55.400 --> 00:40:56.220
Klemm?

00:40:56.220 --> 00:40:57.059
Aye.

00:40:57.059 --> 00:40:57.900
Monroe?

00:40:57.900 --> 00:40:58.720
Aye.

00:40:58.720 --> 00:40:59.559
Simmons?

00:40:59.559 --> 00:41:00.400
Aye.

00:41:00.400 --> 00:41:01.860
The motion passes six to two.

00:41:04.559 --> 00:41:08.240
Item number seven is service awards. Manager Boyer.

00:41:09.760 --> 00:41:17.440
Thank you, Your Honor. I'm going to turn this over to Darren for Brandon Wells and then Chief Shenberger for Emily.

00:41:19.440 --> 00:41:30.160
Yeah, thank you. I'll do Brandon Wells. He's not here tonight. He had a family event that he couldn't make it, but Brandon Wells has been with the Public Works Department for 15 years.

00:41:30.160 --> 00:41:34.160
Brandon has worked for the city in the maintenance department.

00:41:34.160 --> 00:41:39.160
His first position was maintenance electrician and serves as the maintenance foreman today.

00:41:39.160 --> 00:41:46.160
Brandon and his team are responsible for maintaining the water plants, wells, wastewater treatment plant, all of our lift stations,

00:41:46.160 --> 00:41:52.160
and ensuring the facilities are functioning and properly running 24-7.

00:41:52.160 --> 00:42:03.960
Brandon and his highly skilled have a wide variety of specialized maintenance skills, including but not limited to electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and building repairs.

00:42:03.960 --> 00:42:09.559
Brandon is highly motivated, enjoys tough challenges that we seem to have plenty of.

00:42:09.559 --> 00:42:15.760
He manages routine preventative maintenance and performs significant repairs to equipment and to the facility.

00:42:15.760 --> 00:42:22.760
He humbly goes about his day and daily task, and Brandon has no task that's beneath him within the city.

00:42:22.760 --> 00:42:27.760
He's also a great teacher of his craft and enjoys passing his skills on to others.

00:42:27.760 --> 00:42:34.760
Brandon performs his task at a high level, consistently, and provides high value to the city utility.

00:42:34.760 --> 00:42:44.760
You might ask how he provides that. Many of the repairs that Brandon does saves the city thousands of dollars in cost of outside people to come in and do that.

00:42:44.760 --> 00:43:04.760
He oversees most of the repairs at all the facilities and provides significant savings regularly. We appreciate his 15 years of faithful service and wish him the best.

00:43:04.760 --> 00:43:07.760
Thank you. Chief?

00:43:07.760 --> 00:43:15.760
Thank you, Mayor. I'd like to recognize Emily Danikis for her five years of service with the City of Freeport.

00:43:15.760 --> 00:43:27.760
Emily actually started off as a member of our Police Explorer Program, and then she transitioned as a member of our Freeport Police Department Auxiliary Unit when she became old enough.

00:43:27.760 --> 00:43:40.760
About five years ago, Emily was hired as a telecommunicator in the Dispatch Center, and during her time with the City of Freeport, she's established herself as a dependable and valued employee.

00:43:40.760 --> 00:43:56.760
Emily also serves in other capacities, that being a trainer, so she trains new telecommunicators who are going through that training process, and again, she could not be here tonight because of a prior commitment, but I just want to express my sincere thanks to her

00:43:56.760 --> 00:44:01.039
for her commitment to the Dispatch Center and the City of Report.

00:44:01.039 --> 00:44:02.360
Thank you.

00:44:02.360 --> 00:44:03.800
Item number eight is an appointment.

00:44:03.800 --> 00:44:08.480
Could you please read this?

00:44:08.480 --> 00:44:12.320
Appointment of Roger Scholz to the Library Board for a three-year term effective through

00:44:12.320 --> 00:44:14.599
May 31, 2028.

00:44:14.599 --> 00:44:16.000
Is there a motion to approve?

00:44:16.000 --> 00:44:17.000
So moved.

00:44:17.000 --> 00:44:18.000
Second.

00:44:18.000 --> 00:44:21.640
A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Monroe.

00:44:21.640 --> 00:44:22.640
Any discussion?

00:44:22.640 --> 00:44:24.800
Madam Clerk.

00:44:24.800 --> 00:44:26.800
Why did you choose this gentleman?

00:44:26.800 --> 00:44:28.800
I'm sorry, can you repeat that?

00:44:28.800 --> 00:44:30.800
Why did you choose this gentleman?

00:44:30.800 --> 00:44:32.800
He's willing to serve.

00:44:32.800 --> 00:44:34.800
He's been on the board previously,

00:44:34.800 --> 00:44:36.800
back, I think, 20 years ago.

00:44:36.800 --> 00:44:38.800
He seems to be a good fit.

00:44:38.800 --> 00:44:40.800
Talked about it with

00:44:40.800 --> 00:44:42.800
Director Huffines, and

00:44:42.800 --> 00:44:44.800
she agrees.

00:44:44.800 --> 00:44:46.800
And for the record, he's also a

00:44:46.800 --> 00:44:48.800
local Arthur.

00:44:48.800 --> 00:44:50.800
That was my question.

00:44:50.800 --> 00:44:56.880
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

00:44:56.880 --> 00:44:57.880
Parker?

00:44:57.880 --> 00:44:58.880
Aye.

00:44:58.880 --> 00:44:59.880
Stacy?

00:44:59.880 --> 00:45:00.880
Aye.

00:45:00.880 --> 00:45:01.880
Shadle?

00:45:01.880 --> 00:45:02.880
Aye.

00:45:02.880 --> 00:45:03.880
Sanders?

00:45:03.880 --> 00:45:04.880
Aye.

00:45:04.880 --> 00:45:05.880
Sellers?

00:45:05.880 --> 00:45:06.880
Aye.

00:45:06.880 --> 00:45:07.880
Klemm?

00:45:07.880 --> 00:45:08.880
Aye.

00:45:08.880 --> 00:45:09.880
Monroe?

00:45:09.880 --> 00:45:10.880
Aye.

00:45:10.880 --> 00:45:11.880
Simmons?

00:45:11.880 --> 00:45:12.880
Aye.

00:45:12.880 --> 00:45:13.880
And the motion is approved, 8-0.

00:45:13.880 --> 00:45:14.880
And item number 9 is the second reading of Ordinance 2025-12.

00:45:14.880 --> 00:45:15.880
Could you please read this?

00:45:15.880 --> 00:45:19.920
Ordinance amending Chapters 1248 and 1252 of the Zoning Code of the City of Freeport

00:45:19.920 --> 00:45:23.400
Concerning Storage Facilities in Business and Agricultural

00:45:23.400 --> 00:45:24.800
Districts.

00:45:24.800 --> 00:45:26.400
Director Duckman.

00:45:26.400 --> 00:45:28.599
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:45:28.599 --> 00:45:30.800
So in this second reading, I'll just give a recap

00:45:30.800 --> 00:45:33.960
of what we talked about in the last meeting.

00:45:33.960 --> 00:45:35.760
So essentially, what is going on here

00:45:35.760 --> 00:45:40.199
is storage facilities were, currently, they're

00:45:40.199 --> 00:45:44.440
allowed in the B3 district, the Agricultural District.

00:45:44.440 --> 00:45:46.099
And they're also allowed by a special use

00:45:46.099 --> 00:45:48.960
permit in the B2 zoning districts.

00:45:48.960 --> 00:45:59.000
So what this is proposing is to only allow storage facilities like a CubeSmart, for example,

00:45:59.000 --> 00:46:01.159
in the manufacturing districts.

00:46:01.159 --> 00:46:06.640
And just a little recap, what drove this, we brought this to our planning commission

00:46:06.640 --> 00:46:11.880
on February 13th, which was recommended by approval of 6-0.

00:46:11.880 --> 00:46:18.220
What has spurred this is we've had several expansions in the past year, several self-storage

00:46:18.220 --> 00:46:28.140
We've seen a large increase in our retail areas, and we anticipate that it could potentially

00:46:28.140 --> 00:46:35.780
grow and continue to grow and take over areas where we really could use some more variety

00:46:35.780 --> 00:46:40.519
in our retail, especially considering that these self-storage facilities take up large

00:46:40.519 --> 00:46:42.220
geographic areas.

00:46:42.220 --> 00:46:47.300
So with that being said, staff is recommending approval in line with our planning commission

00:46:47.300 --> 00:46:53.380
of this ordinance. Thank you. Any further discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

00:46:56.740 --> 00:47:08.500
Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. And Simmons? Aye.

00:47:08.500 --> 00:47:15.780
The ordinance passes 8-0. And item number 10 is the second reading of ordinance 2025-11. Could

00:47:15.780 --> 00:47:17.860
Could you please read this?

00:47:17.860 --> 00:47:21.659
Ordinance approving hangar leases for A1, Dennis Miller, H1,

00:47:21.659 --> 00:47:26.579
Alexander Glocker, J, Matt Van Bergen, L1, Ron Jansen, L2,

00:47:26.579 --> 00:47:30.220
Heritage Aviation, L3, Rob Tekempe,

00:47:30.220 --> 00:47:36.260
Doing Business as Tangle 34, L5, Paul Oda, L7, Pam Manis, M1,

00:47:36.260 --> 00:47:42.300
John Eink, M3, Greg Manuel, M4, Ken and Paula Irwin, M8,

00:47:42.300 --> 00:47:46.940
David Hayes, and N10 John Staben.

00:47:46.940 --> 00:47:48.059
Manager Boyer.

00:47:48.059 --> 00:47:48.700
Thank you, Your Honor.

00:47:48.700 --> 00:47:51.820
Just following up, this is cleaning up the leases situation

00:47:51.820 --> 00:47:53.019
at the airport.

00:47:53.019 --> 00:47:56.420
We have the new lease format, which was approved by council.

00:47:56.420 --> 00:48:00.059
And these individuals were reviewed last council meeting

00:48:00.059 --> 00:48:03.900
and staff requests moving forward with these leases.

00:48:03.900 --> 00:48:06.780
Are there any discussion on these particular leases?

00:48:06.780 --> 00:48:08.579
Alderman Stacey.

00:48:08.579 --> 00:48:09.860
Yes.

00:48:09.860 --> 00:48:20.300
Hanger L3, Rob, Tecumple, and then it says Tango 34 LLC,

00:48:20.300 --> 00:48:21.579
different hanger.

00:48:21.579 --> 00:48:23.019
So this is two hangers.

00:48:28.059 --> 00:48:31.940
When we sent the leases out, his came back

00:48:31.940 --> 00:48:34.860
in a different hanger, so it's not two hangers.

00:48:34.860 --> 00:48:37.539
He just was previously not an L3.

00:48:37.539 --> 00:48:41.260
He's moved to a different hangar, which is L3.

00:48:42.619 --> 00:48:43.460
Okay.

00:48:44.940 --> 00:48:46.019
Any other discussion?

00:48:47.500 --> 00:48:49.699
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

00:48:49.699 --> 00:48:50.539
Parker?

00:48:50.539 --> 00:48:51.360
Aye.

00:48:51.360 --> 00:48:52.519
Stacy?

00:48:52.519 --> 00:48:53.360
Aye.

00:48:53.360 --> 00:48:54.180
Shadle?

00:48:54.180 --> 00:48:55.019
Aye.

00:48:55.019 --> 00:48:55.860
Sanders?

00:48:55.860 --> 00:48:56.680
Aye.

00:48:56.680 --> 00:48:57.519
Sellers?

00:48:57.519 --> 00:48:58.360
Aye.

00:48:58.360 --> 00:48:59.180
Klemm?

00:48:59.180 --> 00:49:00.019
Aye.

00:49:00.019 --> 00:49:00.860
Monroe?

00:49:00.860 --> 00:49:01.680
Aye.

00:49:01.680 --> 00:49:02.519
And Simmons?

00:49:02.519 --> 00:49:03.360
Aye.

00:49:03.360 --> 00:49:04.180
The ordinance passes eight to zero.

00:49:04.180 --> 00:49:06.019
Item number 11 is the first reading of ordinance 2025-13.

00:49:06.019 --> 00:49:07.400
Could you please read this?

00:49:07.400 --> 00:49:12.960
This is the next batch of hangers that have come back in. This is an ordinance approving those.

00:49:12.960 --> 00:49:21.039
E-1, Propwash, K-8, The Champ Club, New Lease, so they've not previously been in K-8 before,

00:49:21.039 --> 00:49:31.519
L-6, KCS, LLC, KCS is also in L-8, M-6, David Sly, N-1, Howard Norman, N-9, Tim Mickle.

00:49:31.519 --> 00:49:32.519
Manager Boyer.

00:49:32.519 --> 00:49:36.880
Thank you, Your Honor. Again, we have been getting these in as rapidly as possible.

00:49:36.880 --> 00:49:41.760
This is the second batch that's come through. Staff request a suspension of the rules and approval of these leases.

00:49:42.640 --> 00:49:44.640
Is there a motion to move this forward?

00:49:46.240 --> 00:49:48.240
Tomo? Second.

00:49:51.760 --> 00:49:57.519
Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Monroe. Alderman Monroe. Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:49:58.360 --> 00:50:04.260
This is questions for a City Manager. How many of these are still outstanding after this batch goes through?

00:50:04.260 --> 00:50:07.369
and Andrew. Madam Clerk. I mailed out 50

00:50:07.369 --> 00:50:14.489
Madam Clerk? I mailed out 50. So I haven't done a count, but this isn't half. No. No. Thank you.

00:50:16.809 --> 00:50:22.210
Alderman, oh go ahead. Why do some hangers have

00:50:24.049 --> 00:50:26.049
the holder's name and

00:50:27.009 --> 00:50:28.609
some have

00:50:28.609 --> 00:50:34.889
the listed business. Why if they have a business aren't isn't the business listed?

00:50:34.889 --> 00:50:42.730
Alderperson, Stacy, my guess is that these are private airplane, you know, pleasure aircraft

00:50:42.730 --> 00:50:44.929
where the other ones are listed under a business.

00:50:44.929 --> 00:50:47.329
Dovie, did you have something to add?

00:50:47.329 --> 00:50:48.329
Yeah.

00:50:48.329 --> 00:50:50.849
If they provide a business name, it's listed.

00:50:50.849 --> 00:50:59.489
If they don't provide a business name, then they're leased under the individual's name.

00:50:59.489 --> 00:51:02.369
Any further discussion?

00:51:02.369 --> 00:51:07.889
As per requested, is there a motion to suspend the rules?

00:51:07.889 --> 00:51:08.889
Second.

00:51:08.889 --> 00:51:13.089
Seconded by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

00:51:13.089 --> 00:51:17.210
A suspension of the rules is non-debatable and was passed by two-thirds majority.

00:51:17.210 --> 00:51:20.849
Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll on the suspension only?

00:51:20.849 --> 00:51:21.849
Parker?

00:51:21.849 --> 00:51:22.849
Aye.

00:51:22.849 --> 00:51:23.849
Stacy?

00:51:23.849 --> 00:51:24.849
Aye.

00:51:24.849 --> 00:51:25.849
Shadle?

00:51:25.849 --> 00:51:26.849
Aye.

00:51:26.849 --> 00:51:27.849
Sanders?

00:51:27.849 --> 00:51:28.849
Aye.

00:51:28.849 --> 00:51:29.849
Sellers?

00:51:29.849 --> 00:51:30.849
Aye.

00:51:30.849 --> 00:51:31.849
Klemm?

00:51:31.849 --> 00:51:51.529
Parker, Stacey, Shadel, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Monroe, Simmons.

00:51:51.529 --> 00:51:54.029
This ordinance has passed 8-0.

00:51:54.029 --> 00:51:56.889
Item number 12 is the first reading of ordinance 20-25-14.

00:51:56.889 --> 00:51:59.949
Could you please read this?

00:51:59.949 --> 00:52:03.069
Adopting the Official Zoning Map of the City of Freeport.

00:52:03.069 --> 00:52:06.670
Thank you, Director Duckman.

00:52:06.670 --> 00:52:09.230
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:52:09.230 --> 00:52:16.829
So the State of Illinois requires communities to publish annually their zoning maps and also

00:52:16.829 --> 00:52:23.909
to publish any or discuss if there was any zoning map amendments and in the year of 2024,

00:52:23.909 --> 00:52:28.230
I have it up here, I can turn off the lights if necessary, but essentially there were zero

00:52:28.230 --> 00:52:30.230
and

00:52:31.230 --> 00:52:33.230
Mr.

00:52:34.230 --> 00:52:36.230
Miller.

00:52:37.230 --> 00:52:38.230
We have a new

00:52:38.230 --> 00:52:40.230
map amendment in the year of 2024.

00:52:40.230 --> 00:52:43.230
With this being stated and with the zoning map in front of you,

00:52:43.230 --> 00:52:47.230
staff is recommending moving this ordinance forward for a second

00:52:47.230 --> 00:52:49.230
reading.

00:52:50.230 --> 00:52:52.230
Is there a motion to move this forward?

00:52:52.230 --> 00:52:54.230
So moved. Second.

00:52:54.230 --> 00:53:00.630
the Ordinance. Seeing none, we'll move on to item number 13, which is the first reading

00:53:00.630 --> 00:53:05.630
of Ordinance 2025-16. Could you please read this? Ordinance approving the acquisition

00:53:05.630 --> 00:53:10.049
of real property interests, including land and easements, along Fairgrounds Road for

00:53:10.049 --> 00:53:15.909
well number 12. Thank you, Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. As discussed, February

00:53:15.909 --> 00:53:22.130
10th in closed session, city staff is recommending moving forward with the purchase of a property

00:53:22.130 --> 00:53:35.069
Approximately 7 acres south of Crate Park. We'll have the map up here. As you know, the

00:53:35.069 --> 00:53:40.889
City of Freeport's water system has been systematically upgraded since we were first made aware of

00:53:40.889 --> 00:53:46.230
Forever Chemicals in our main water plant, Source Water, at Brick Street. Since then,

00:53:46.230 --> 00:53:52.789
We have gone offline on the Brook Street plant, have been developing new source water and filtration

00:53:52.789 --> 00:53:59.190
capacity that has recently come to a conclusion on the Berchard plant at Berchard Hill.

00:53:59.190 --> 00:54:03.190
We have one more well and treatment plant that is necessary to ensure that we have redundant

00:54:03.190 --> 00:54:08.190
capacity in place and so staff has been working for the last year trying to find a location

00:54:08.190 --> 00:54:09.190
for that.

00:54:09.190 --> 00:54:14.509
We located the best, not only quality of water, but a good location for the city at this location

00:54:14.509 --> 00:54:19.829
on Forrest Road. We then reached out and worked up a option agreement with the

00:54:19.829 --> 00:54:24.590
property owners and we are ready to move forward to ensure that we receive grant

00:54:24.590 --> 00:54:28.309
funding that's available and whether it's five million dollars in

00:54:28.309 --> 00:54:31.750
forgivable loans, another seven million dollars in emerging contaminants funding

00:54:31.750 --> 00:54:35.829
money, we're interested in moving it along rapidly from the standpoint of

00:54:35.829 --> 00:54:38.949
making sure that those funds we actually receive given the change in

00:54:38.949 --> 00:54:43.469
administration. So staff is asking for a suspension of the rules related to this

00:54:43.469 --> 00:55:13.469
Project. Is there a motion to move this forward? So moved. Second. Is there a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers? Darren? I just want to emphasize the importance of this moving forward. We are planning on going out to bed at the end of the month with well house number 12 and it's imperative that we have the property in place in order to get the forgiveness and the emergent contaminants money. Again,

00:55:13.469 --> 00:55:20.630
and Rob Brown, and it's $12.2 million around the line, and this plan, property, not this

00:55:20.630 --> 00:55:27.469
exact property, but property was planned in the 2025 budget for this purchase.

00:55:27.469 --> 00:55:34.389
Why it's taken so long is City Manager and I have been working on real estate in that

00:55:34.389 --> 00:55:39.590
corridor for probably over six months and had to move from property to property because

00:55:39.590 --> 00:55:44.909
and others, we had significant issues trying to gain enough property to build the structure

00:55:44.909 --> 00:55:49.109
and the well that we need in a quality area.

00:55:49.109 --> 00:55:53.150
This area's been tested, we feel that we'll have significant good water quality like we

00:55:53.150 --> 00:56:03.150
did at well 11, it's 6,500 feet away and also has the yellow creek as the aquifer foundation

00:56:03.150 --> 00:56:05.670
to the well that we'll be drilling there.

00:56:05.670 --> 00:56:13.549
So if anybody doesn't know, this is on the curves out on Fairgrounds Road and Park.

00:56:13.549 --> 00:56:14.630
City Manager.

00:56:14.630 --> 00:56:20.869
And one last thing, just the city provided $9,500 in the first option agreement with

00:56:20.869 --> 00:56:23.429
the landowners and that is non-refundable.

00:56:23.429 --> 00:56:27.429
So I would like to move forward as not part of the purchase price.

00:56:27.429 --> 00:56:29.269
Alderman Monroe.

00:56:29.269 --> 00:56:31.269
Thank you, Madam Mayor.

00:56:31.269 --> 00:56:39.069
Even though Director Steekle didn't really sell me on the Yellow Creek, Yummy Water,

00:56:39.069 --> 00:56:43.349
I will make a motion to suspend the rules and move this forward.

00:56:43.349 --> 00:56:45.069
Second.

00:56:45.069 --> 00:56:48.750
We have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers for suspension

00:56:48.750 --> 00:56:49.750
of the rules.

00:56:49.750 --> 00:56:51.829
Again, that's non-debatable and must pass by two-thirds majority.

00:56:51.829 --> 00:56:54.909
Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll on the suspension only?

00:56:54.909 --> 00:56:55.909
Parker?

00:56:55.909 --> 00:56:56.909
Aye.

00:56:56.909 --> 00:56:57.909
Stacy?

00:56:57.909 --> 00:56:58.909
Aye.

00:56:58.909 --> 00:56:59.909
Shadle?

00:56:59.909 --> 00:57:00.909
Aye.

00:57:00.909 --> 00:57:09.909
Klemm, Monroe, and Simmons. The suspension of the rules passes 8 to 0. So now before

00:57:09.909 --> 00:57:14.349
you is the final passage for this ordinance Alderman Stacey. Yes I would

00:57:14.349 --> 00:57:20.989
like to know how much is this gonna cost us?

00:57:20.989 --> 00:57:50.989
Manager, Boyer? Approximately $22,000 an acre. $22,000 an acre? Correct. Yes. And that includes the earnest money as well. And how many acres are we looking at? So we originally asked for 10, but we were able to get the work done that we needed for 7, so we renegotiated with the owner

00:57:50.989 --> 00:57:55.549
and 7 was all we needed.

00:57:55.549 --> 00:57:56.909
Any other discussion?

00:57:56.909 --> 00:57:59.109
Yes, one more?

00:57:59.109 --> 00:58:04.069
Let me see if anybody else has, because you used your 2.

00:58:04.069 --> 00:58:06.590
If no one objects.

00:58:06.590 --> 00:58:10.109
OK, Alderman Stacey.

00:58:10.109 --> 00:58:18.549
Without having this property, Darren, I'm sorry, Director,

00:58:18.549 --> 00:58:22.150
and without knowing how many acres,

00:58:23.349 --> 00:58:25.929
how did we budget for something like this?

00:58:28.389 --> 00:58:31.509
So anybody can easily research

00:58:31.509 --> 00:58:34.349
what commercial type properties go for

00:58:34.349 --> 00:58:37.029
in Stevenson County and in the city.

00:58:37.029 --> 00:58:40.090
And so we took a stab at what it might cost

00:58:40.090 --> 00:58:43.550
or what the max value we were willing to pay for properties.

00:58:43.550 --> 00:58:46.789
There was two other properties that City Manager

00:58:46.789 --> 00:58:52.949
and I negotiated on, one of them was a half a million dollars an acre, and another one

00:58:52.949 --> 00:59:02.849
was $50,000 an acre. So we deemed them unaffordable and way beyond our budget. $20,000 would be

00:59:02.849 --> 00:59:08.429
high for farm ground, but not for commercial ground. And this opportunity gives us a lot

00:59:08.429 --> 00:59:13.149
of legs for the future growth of Freeport. And the attributes, as I discussed in executive

00:59:13.149 --> 00:59:43.149
We have a lot of obsession to this property, way into the price, so it's one of the areas of Freeport that doesn't flood, right, so we want to get just like well house 11, we need to place this in somewhere that's not low ground, the attributes to the yellow creek, one of the reasons that we like that is the water source is permanent and it filters through the ground layers, and we are drilling down to 1300 feet is the expectation for this well, similar to well 11.

00:59:43.149 --> 00:59:52.449
the future expansion to Freeport is significantly beneficial to this property.

00:59:52.449 --> 00:59:59.569
I will also remind everyone this well in particular will feed 70% of the people in Freeport because

00:59:59.569 --> 01:00:03.029
it feeds the Low Zone which is our largest population of zone.

01:00:03.029 --> 01:00:06.329
It's our business district, the down south, the east side.

01:00:06.329 --> 01:00:08.329
We will be pumping

01:00:08.329 --> 01:00:15.329
and the Eastside, so we will be pumping that water across Walnut Avenue and to the East part of town.

01:00:15.329 --> 01:00:17.329
Did you say 70?

01:00:17.329 --> 01:00:27.329
About 70 percent, yeah, because it's most of our commercial businesses and most of our downtown area and to the East.

01:00:27.329 --> 01:00:33.329
And that's where we need the extra capacity at.

01:00:33.329 --> 01:00:37.329
If there's no further discussion, please take the roll.

01:00:37.329 --> 01:00:55.329
Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. And Simmons? Aye. The ordinance passes 8 to 0. Item number 14 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-26. Could you please read this?

01:00:55.329 --> 01:01:05.329
Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding or MLU with Mississippi Centers for Supervision of Police Social Worker while obtaining Masters of Social Work degree.

01:01:05.329 --> 01:01:07.929
Thank you, Chief Shenberger.

01:01:07.929 --> 01:01:08.929
Thank you.

01:01:08.929 --> 01:01:13.849
In October of 2024, the police social worker at that time resigned his position with the

01:01:13.849 --> 01:01:19.250
Freeport Police Department to pursue a position with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.

01:01:19.250 --> 01:01:23.170
Human Resources advertised for the open position of police social worker.

01:01:23.170 --> 01:01:27.690
After the initial posting, the police department received interest from one applicant that

01:01:27.690 --> 01:01:29.809
was prepared to offer employment to the applicant.

01:01:29.809 --> 01:01:34.489
However, the applicant declined to accept the position with another agency.

01:01:34.489 --> 01:01:39.130
The open position was posted a second time and HR received interest from one applicant.

01:01:39.130 --> 01:01:44.110
The applicant is local and obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Applied Psychology and Criminal

01:01:44.110 --> 01:01:49.329
Law and Justice from University of Illinois Chicago in 2023.

01:01:49.329 --> 01:01:54.369
She also had over two years of employment in the social services field and is a member

01:01:54.369 --> 01:01:56.929
of the United States Army National Guard.

01:01:56.929 --> 01:02:02.969
The applicant anticipates receiving her Masters of Social Work in July 2026.

01:02:02.969 --> 01:02:06.889
The Police Social Worker position was offered to this applicant and she started her role

01:02:06.889 --> 01:02:09.809
on February 10th, 2025.

01:02:09.809 --> 01:02:13.610
The Freeport Police Department reached out to Mississippi Centers to have a licensed clinical

01:02:13.610 --> 01:02:18.670
social worker supervise the new police social worker on a weekly basis until she obtains

01:02:18.670 --> 01:02:22.650
her Masters of Social Work in July of 2026.

01:02:22.650 --> 01:02:27.969
In 2022, the Freeport Police Department hired a police social worker under similar circumstances

01:02:27.969 --> 01:02:33.769
who also required supervision from an LCSW until she received her certification.

01:02:33.769 --> 01:02:38.170
The police social worker will also work closely with the Stevenson County Sheriff's Office

01:02:38.170 --> 01:02:39.170
social worker.

01:02:39.170 --> 01:02:44.090
The supervision of a police social worker until she obtains her masters of social work

01:02:44.090 --> 01:02:45.750
is not uncommon.

01:02:45.750 --> 01:02:50.409
According to the National Association of Social Workers and Association of Social Work Boards,

01:02:50.409 --> 01:02:55.769
working under an LCSW supervisor is important to the profession to have assurance that all

01:02:55.769 --> 01:03:01.130
All social workers are equipped with the necessary skills to deliver competent and ethical social

01:03:01.130 --> 01:03:03.049
work services.

01:03:03.049 --> 01:03:08.250
Professional supervision is defined as the relationship between a supervisor and a supervisee

01:03:08.250 --> 01:03:13.569
in which the responsibility and accountability for the development of competence, demeanor,

01:03:13.569 --> 01:03:15.690
and ethical practice take place.

01:03:15.690 --> 01:03:21.069
The supervisor is responsible for providing direction to the supervisee who applies social

01:03:21.069 --> 01:03:27.389
Work Theory, Standardized Knowledge, Skills, Competency, and Applicable Ethical Content

01:03:27.389 --> 01:03:29.869
in the Practice Setting.

01:03:29.869 --> 01:03:33.590
The supervisor and the supervisee both share responsibility for carrying out their role

01:03:33.590 --> 01:03:36.630
in this collaborative process.

01:03:36.630 --> 01:03:42.110
This MOU with the Mississippi Centers includes one two-hour session per week at no cost.

01:03:42.110 --> 01:03:47.069
Any time spent by the Mississippi over two hours a week could be subject to a charge

01:03:47.069 --> 01:03:52.069
of $40 an hour, however, it's not anticipated that this will be necessary.

01:03:52.069 --> 01:03:53.069
Thank you.

01:03:53.069 --> 01:03:54.069
Is there a motion to adopt?

01:03:54.069 --> 01:03:55.069
So moved.

01:03:55.069 --> 01:03:56.069
Second.

01:03:56.069 --> 01:04:01.150
A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.

01:04:01.150 --> 01:04:02.150
Questions on the resolution?

01:04:02.150 --> 01:04:06.190
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:04:06.190 --> 01:04:07.190
Parker?

01:04:07.190 --> 01:04:08.190
Aye.

01:04:08.190 --> 01:04:09.190
Stacy?

01:04:09.190 --> 01:04:10.190
Aye.

01:04:10.190 --> 01:04:11.190
Shadle?

01:04:11.190 --> 01:04:12.190
Aye.

01:04:12.190 --> 01:04:13.190
Sanders?

01:04:13.190 --> 01:04:14.190
Aye.

01:04:14.190 --> 01:04:15.190
Sellers?

01:04:15.190 --> 01:04:16.190
Aye.

01:04:16.190 --> 01:04:29.190
Since you're returning, Alderperson, Monroe, do you want to vote or not? Okay, thank you. That is 8 to 0 and the resolution is adopted.

01:04:29.190 --> 01:04:34.190
Item number 15 is the adoption of resolution 2025-27. Could you please read this?

01:04:34.190 --> 01:04:45.190
Resolution approving an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide civil engineering services related to IDOT surface transportation program, urban portion, which is STU,

01:04:45.190 --> 01:04:49.269
FAU, STU, STU Funded Street Improvements Program.

01:04:49.269 --> 01:04:51.309
Manager Boyer?

01:04:51.309 --> 01:04:52.710
Thank you, Your Honor.

01:04:52.710 --> 01:04:58.750
So February 10th, we discussed the various FAU applicable routes.

01:04:58.750 --> 01:05:01.590
These are federal routes that we can use federal funding for.

01:05:01.590 --> 01:05:08.110
They are very particular about how work is done, and we're trying to make a point of

01:05:08.110 --> 01:05:11.009
using these funds for mill and overlay projects.

01:05:11.009 --> 01:05:16.050
So those projects were identified as Lincoln Boulevard from Locust to West, Stevenson Street

01:05:16.050 --> 01:05:23.329
from Locust to Sunset, Adams Avenue from Exchange to Float, and Walnut Avenue from Empire to

01:05:23.329 --> 01:05:24.329
South.

01:05:24.329 --> 01:05:27.250
So that is the list of projects we're hoping to do.

01:05:27.250 --> 01:05:32.569
However, because we have to do an environmental study, we'd like to move forward with design

01:05:32.569 --> 01:05:37.009
on this, even though construction won't begin until 2026.

01:05:37.009 --> 01:05:43.409
So staff requests Council move forward with this agreement with Fehr Graham to move forward.

01:05:43.409 --> 01:05:51.170
The total cost of the agreement is $218,150 and that will prepare us for utilization of

01:05:51.170 --> 01:05:53.569
these funds in the 2026 construction season.

01:05:53.569 --> 01:05:55.329
Is there a motion to adopt?

01:05:55.329 --> 01:05:56.329
So moved.

01:05:56.329 --> 01:05:57.329
Second.

01:05:57.329 --> 01:06:02.050
A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

01:06:02.050 --> 01:06:03.050
Discussion on the resolution?

01:06:03.050 --> 01:06:04.050
Madam.

01:06:04.050 --> 01:06:05.050
I have a question.

01:06:05.050 --> 01:06:06.050
Alderman Stacy.

01:06:06.050 --> 01:06:23.090
Alderman, Stacy Okay, this is a grant that will pay $2.5 million.

01:06:23.090 --> 01:06:25.090
It is not per se in a grant.

01:06:25.090 --> 01:06:30.409
This is funds that are dispersed through IDOT, but they have to be dispersed in a specific

01:06:30.409 --> 01:06:37.289
and Stacey. We have a very high level of parameters. Unfortunately, we were hoping to deploy these

01:06:37.289 --> 01:06:41.690
funds this year, but because of the environmental study that needs to be done, I think it's

01:06:41.690 --> 01:06:46.049
an eight or nine month process. These will end up being deployed in 26, but we still

01:06:46.049 --> 01:06:50.489
need to get the work done now so we can deploy these funds in 26.

01:06:50.489 --> 01:06:52.489
Alderman, Stacy

01:06:52.489 --> 01:06:56.489
Okay, so we currently have two contracts with Fehr Graham.

01:06:56.489 --> 01:07:06.489
Water Works Director and Master Service contract.

01:07:06.489 --> 01:07:19.489
Why wouldn't one of those cover this cost to go after this money?

01:07:19.489 --> 01:07:26.969
and others. Those are different projects. So the Public Works Director, I believe that's

01:07:26.969 --> 01:07:30.469
what you're referring to, that is dealing with the day-to-day management and working

01:07:30.469 --> 01:07:36.050
with the superintendents and the employees day-to-day. This is actually designed and

01:07:36.050 --> 01:07:41.090
preparation for the STU funds to be deployed next year. It's just a completely different

01:07:41.090 --> 01:07:42.690
thing. I don't know if Darren wants to-

01:07:42.690 --> 01:07:45.449
with the second contract that we have with Fehr Graham.

01:07:49.289 --> 01:07:54.289
So we do multiple contracts with the city every year.

01:07:55.009 --> 01:07:57.429
The Public Works Director is exactly what Rob said.

01:07:57.429 --> 01:08:00.110
That's me running the day-to-day of Public Works

01:08:00.110 --> 01:08:03.090
with the Superintendent, so that's a standalone contract.

01:08:03.090 --> 01:08:07.289
The Master Service Agreement is small contracts,

01:08:07.289 --> 01:08:09.190
things that we help the Fire Department with

01:08:09.190 --> 01:08:12.369
or the Police Department or specific things,

01:08:12.369 --> 01:08:16.630
and others, building issues, other grants that we go after, smaller projects.

01:08:16.630 --> 01:08:22.689
Whenever we get into big projects, we do stand-alone contracts for them.

01:08:22.689 --> 01:08:28.090
It defines the scope of the project better than the Master Service Agreement.

01:08:28.090 --> 01:08:34.229
We could add this money on to the Master Service Agreement, but when it comes to IDOT or EPA

01:08:34.229 --> 01:08:39.109
or anything that's federally funded, has money in it, they like to see stand-alone contracts

01:08:39.109 --> 01:08:40.970
for just that project alone.

01:08:40.970 --> 01:08:44.930
So to be honest with you, this is a more transparent way

01:08:44.930 --> 01:08:46.869
of bringing it to the council and to the floor

01:08:46.869 --> 01:08:49.010
so everybody can see the contracts

01:08:49.010 --> 01:08:52.510
rather than just the day-to-day stuff that are,

01:08:52.510 --> 01:08:53.750
I don't wanna say they're meaningless,

01:08:53.750 --> 01:08:55.090
but they're much smaller items

01:08:55.090 --> 01:08:58.149
like helping the Fire Chief get a grant for windows

01:08:58.149 --> 01:09:00.750
or helping the police station with their canopy

01:09:00.750 --> 01:09:03.189
that fell down, things like that.

01:09:03.189 --> 01:09:05.630
That's what the master service contract is for.

01:09:05.630 --> 01:09:09.789
Okay, so this is not gonna happen until 2026.

01:09:09.789 --> 01:09:16.149
The construction won't, the design process needs to start now if we want to get the project

01:09:16.149 --> 01:09:17.149
constructed.

01:09:17.149 --> 01:09:19.390
And we budgeted for this?

01:09:19.390 --> 01:09:23.529
We have engineering budgets for it and all the expense won't come this year.

01:09:23.529 --> 01:09:27.829
Some of it will come this year and some of it will come in 26.

01:09:27.829 --> 01:09:35.189
I would say this project was not budgeted for like it is shown today because we didn't

01:09:35.189 --> 01:09:39.750
know that we were going to be able to get this money when we did budgets, right?

01:09:39.750 --> 01:09:46.029
So that's what I said in the memo, this is a chance to get $2.5 million, but we have

01:09:46.029 --> 01:09:48.869
to support the engineering ourselves.

01:09:48.869 --> 01:09:56.350
So I already have the negotiations done with IDOT, we will get this funding, maybe even

01:09:56.350 --> 01:10:01.189
a little bit more, because it's a cost estimate, it's not perfect, right, it's 10,000 feet

01:10:01.189 --> 01:10:06.350
at the moment, but if we don't move forward with the engineering now, this will not be

01:10:06.350 --> 01:10:08.350
Reconstructed in 26 because the

01:10:08.350 --> 01:10:10.350
Holt, Tom, George, C.D., and now the board of trustees.

01:10:12.370 --> 01:10:14.450
The board of trustees is the only thing in our community that

01:10:14.450 --> 01:10:17.950
is going to be constructed in 26 because the ESR alone is a

01:10:17.950 --> 01:10:19.950
nine-month process.

01:10:21.270 --> 01:10:23.270
≫ Thank you for being truthful. ≫ Alderman Klemm?

01:10:23.690 --> 01:10:25.690
≫ What is the environmental issue?

01:10:26.990 --> 01:10:28.990
≫ It is being pushed down from the federal government.

01:10:30.590 --> 01:10:32.590
We went to a seminar about it but anything that has a dollar of

01:10:32.690 --> 01:10:35.390
federal money tied to it anymore is going to end up having an ESR

01:10:38.350 --> 01:10:44.890
and other agencies, that, and archeological studies are the new buzzwords, and unfortunately,

01:10:44.890 --> 01:10:48.070
they're very expensive to do.

01:10:48.070 --> 01:10:52.590
We're working on some drainage issues over in the Sioux Basin, and we were just notified

01:10:52.590 --> 01:10:57.829
that we have to do an archeological study to look for arrowheads and Indian findings

01:10:57.829 --> 01:10:59.710
because it came up on some reports.

01:10:59.710 --> 01:11:04.870
So it's a hot buzz item within the engineering world.

01:11:04.870 --> 01:11:09.990
and again the seminar that we went to said any project that has one dollar of federal

01:11:09.990 --> 01:11:14.310
funds in it is going to retire those two options to be done moving forward.

01:11:14.310 --> 01:11:16.250
Thank you.

01:11:16.250 --> 01:11:19.950
Any other discussion on this resolution?

01:11:19.950 --> 01:11:21.829
Seeing none Madam Clerk please take the roll.

01:11:21.829 --> 01:11:22.829
Parker?

01:11:22.829 --> 01:11:23.829
Aye.

01:11:23.829 --> 01:11:24.829
Stacy?

01:11:24.829 --> 01:11:25.829
Aye.

01:11:25.829 --> 01:11:26.829
Shadle?

01:11:26.829 --> 01:11:27.829
Aye.

01:11:27.829 --> 01:11:28.829
Sanders?

01:11:28.829 --> 01:11:29.829
Aye.

01:11:29.829 --> 01:11:30.829
Sellers?

01:11:30.829 --> 01:11:31.829
Aye.

01:11:31.829 --> 01:11:32.829
Klemm?

01:11:32.829 --> 01:11:33.829
Aye.

01:11:33.829 --> 01:11:34.829
Monroe?

01:11:34.829 --> 01:11:42.350
Item number 16 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-28. Could you please read this?

01:11:42.350 --> 01:11:50.350
Resolution ratifying emergency demolition of the structure located at 402 to 404 East Shawnee Street by Elber and Sun Earthworks.

01:11:50.350 --> 01:11:52.350
Director Duckman.

01:11:52.350 --> 01:11:57.850
Thank you, Madam Mayor. So we're bringing this back up to Council for approval.

01:11:57.850 --> 01:12:02.650
It is the emergency demolition of 402-404-E Shawnee.

01:12:02.650 --> 01:12:07.850
This property was declared a chronic nuisance on May 16th of 2024.

01:12:07.850 --> 01:12:14.250
The city posted a notice for the Statutory Fast Track Demolition on September 3rd of 2024.

01:12:14.250 --> 01:12:25.450
And then due to the immediate health and safety concerns, I solicited bids for the demolition of this property on December 11th, 2024 from three contractors.

01:12:25.450 --> 01:12:31.450
In the memorandum, I posted the solicited bids, as well as the return bids.

01:12:31.450 --> 01:12:37.450
The bids are listed below and are provided to you.

01:12:37.450 --> 01:12:43.450
And they were, Elburn Sun Earthworks provided a bid in the amount of $19,700.

01:12:43.450 --> 01:12:48.450
Northern Illinois Service Company provided a bid for $29,837.

01:12:48.450 --> 01:12:52.450
And Fisher Excavating did not respond to the request for bid.

01:12:52.450 --> 01:13:09.450
The city moved forward with the demolition from Alvern Sun Earthworks, which was met the statutory requirement of 120 days from the posting or the statutory fast-track demolition and staff recommends approval of this resolution.

01:13:09.450 --> 01:13:21.450
Is there a motion to approve this resolution? Second. A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion on the resolution? Alderman Stacey?

01:13:21.450 --> 01:13:24.650
What was the real emergency? What was the emergency?

01:13:24.650 --> 01:13:33.450
Oh, gosh. I mean, I think I talked about that for an hour a couple weeks ago, but I think the biggest emergency here when we talk about public safety is

01:13:33.450 --> 01:13:38.950
our fire department had two arson calls on this property.

01:13:38.950 --> 01:13:42.950
Confirmed arson calls from our fire marshal.

01:13:42.950 --> 01:13:50.950
It's a very serious matter when we're talking about the safety of our community. We also know that the property did not have insurance.

01:13:50.950 --> 01:14:20.950
So, when you have a fire hazard that had two incidents of arson on it, and then since I've been in this position, I've been called several times on that property from the community saying, hey, somebody's been in the property, somebody's breaking in, so the true nature of the emergency for several reasons, but I believe the biggest threat to the community was the arson, the arson threat documented more than once,

01:14:20.950 --> 01:14:22.950
and

01:14:23.950 --> 01:14:25.950
other members of the community.

01:14:26.950 --> 01:14:28.950
Any other discussion? Alderman, Monroe.

01:14:29.950 --> 01:14:34.950
Thank you, Madam Mayor. Director Duckman, you know, thank you for

01:14:34.950 --> 01:14:38.950
the timeline. It was nice to see that actually written down. Why

01:14:38.950 --> 01:14:42.950
didn't you come to Council sooner? Because when we're talking, you

01:14:42.950 --> 01:14:46.950
know, I don't remember exactly how many years and months, but you

01:14:46.950 --> 01:14:49.390
and many other times.

01:14:49.390 --> 01:14:56.670
But here we are May, August, September, October, December, and you never once thought of coming

01:14:56.670 --> 01:15:00.870
to council like you do with every other demo.

01:15:00.870 --> 01:15:02.910
Why didn't that occur?

01:15:02.910 --> 01:15:07.910
And two, when did the city actually take ownership of the property?

01:15:07.910 --> 01:15:10.510
A couple questions there.

01:15:10.510 --> 01:15:15.870
Well, first answer is, this is now the second, I guess I'd say the third time I've talked

01:15:15.870 --> 01:15:20.870
We talked about this demolition, right? We talked about it at Cal. We talked about the emergency, right?

01:15:20.870 --> 01:15:23.870
Just please answer the two questions I asked. That's all I'm asking.

01:15:23.870 --> 01:15:29.870
Okay, well, that's my first answer. So this is the third time we've talked about this demolition. So that's my answer to your first question.

01:15:29.870 --> 01:15:30.870
After the fact.

01:15:30.870 --> 01:15:36.870
Yes. Now, we're going to talk about the second question being, remind me of the second question so I can answer it.

01:15:36.870 --> 01:15:42.390
So the first one, why didn't you come to the council before you demoed the house with

01:15:44.950 --> 01:15:51.510
basically a structured agreement, everything in place, like we have every other demo we've done

01:15:51.510 --> 01:15:56.390
in the city. Why didn't you do that? Because clearly there was an opportunity through November

01:15:56.390 --> 01:16:01.270
and December to do that. No, I would say there wasn't. I would say it was done as an emergency

01:16:01.270 --> 01:16:05.350
demolition, which is what I talk about in the memo, which is what I talked about, I believe it

01:16:05.350 --> 01:16:26.070
and Sitka, Butterfield,

01:16:26.070 --> 01:16:27.070
Second Question

01:16:27.070 --> 01:16:28.070
Yeah.

01:16:28.070 --> 01:16:29.990
When did we take possession of the property?

01:16:29.990 --> 01:16:35.310
The city does not own this property and a fast-track demolition the city does

01:16:35.310 --> 01:16:36.310
and others.

01:16:36.310 --> 01:16:41.030
A fast track demolition, that's why you post notice to the property owner saying, hey,

01:16:41.030 --> 01:16:46.390
you've left this property vacant, you've left it abandoned, and you left it as a nuisance

01:16:46.390 --> 01:16:51.390
to the property, to this community, and if you don't fix it or demolish it yourself,

01:16:51.390 --> 01:16:54.350
the city's going to because it's a nuisance and a threat to the community.

01:16:54.350 --> 01:16:58.210
And that's exactly what we told the property owner.

01:16:58.210 --> 01:17:04.750
And we told it to multiple property owners, this is not the first one we've done.

01:17:04.750 --> 01:17:14.750
I just want some clarification on is this to just pay Albert and Sons for the work

01:17:14.750 --> 01:17:20.790
is done because the house is gone so we can't change that so this is to pay them

01:17:20.790 --> 01:17:27.310
for demoing the property this is 100% correct this is to pay them for the

01:17:27.310 --> 01:17:28.310
and Stacey.

01:17:28.310 --> 01:17:29.310
Yes.

01:17:29.310 --> 01:17:30.310
Alderman Stacey?

01:17:30.310 --> 01:17:37.990
Was this a fast track demo or was it an emergency demo?

01:17:37.990 --> 01:17:40.130
Both.

01:17:40.130 --> 01:17:43.550
Because we've never heard emergency until now.

01:17:43.550 --> 01:17:46.110
You've always just said fast track.

01:17:46.110 --> 01:17:47.110
Correct.

01:17:47.110 --> 01:17:52.630
And when I actually brought up in January an emergency board up of the hotel, which

01:17:52.630 --> 01:17:55.750
also had a threat of a fire in January.

01:17:55.750 --> 01:18:02.750
So whenever there's a threat of a fire to this community in a structure, I'm going to stand

01:18:02.750 --> 01:18:06.470
behind a demolition as fast as I can or a board up as fast as I can.

01:18:06.470 --> 01:18:10.870
As long as there is a threat of fire in this community, I'm going to stand behind the quickest

01:18:10.870 --> 01:18:14.910
action I can possible to protect this community from a fire threat.

01:18:14.910 --> 01:18:17.270
So I did it in January for the hotel.

01:18:17.270 --> 01:18:20.190
I solicited bids from three contractors.

01:18:20.190 --> 01:18:22.550
Hutter,

01:18:22.550 --> 01:18:23.550
I'm sorry, did you?

01:18:23.550 --> 01:18:26.130
I said I'm not talking about the hotel.

01:18:26.130 --> 01:18:29.590
Well I mean you asked if I had ever done an emergency action in the past and the answer

01:18:29.590 --> 01:18:30.590
to that question is yes.

01:18:30.590 --> 01:18:32.270
No, that's not what I said.

01:18:32.270 --> 01:18:40.710
Okay, I said, was this a fast track demo or was it an emergency demo and when was the

01:18:40.710 --> 01:18:41.710
fires?

01:18:41.710 --> 01:18:43.210
It's both.

01:18:43.210 --> 01:18:44.210
It's both.

01:18:44.210 --> 01:18:47.030
So it's both emergency and fast track.

01:18:47.030 --> 01:18:48.030
And when were the fires?

01:18:48.030 --> 01:18:59.150
The last fires were in 2021. So if it was such a big hazardous to the community, we're in 24.

01:19:00.510 --> 01:19:08.350
I gave, I gave the property owner the opportunity to fix it, and they did nothing.

01:19:09.390 --> 01:19:15.550
Oh, they did a whole lot. Did they? Enlighten me. My question for you, I'd like. Back on topic,

01:19:15.550 --> 01:19:41.590
Bates, and I will also state that, and I said it in the last time this came up for resolution,

01:19:41.590 --> 01:19:47.550
and I will say it again, if any council member would like to go to City Manager Boyer and

01:19:47.550 --> 01:19:53.010
do an investigation into how I work, I stand behind my work and I always will.

01:19:53.010 --> 01:20:00.030
And if the way I operate is looked at as being deceitful, dishonest, inappropriate, et cetera,

01:20:00.030 --> 01:20:01.030
I stand behind that.

01:20:01.030 --> 01:20:05.030
And if there's some disciplinary action of determination, I stand behind that.

01:20:05.030 --> 01:20:08.430
and if that's the decision of my manager, I respect that.

01:20:08.430 --> 01:20:14.350
My manager, I respect that, I'm not going to fight that, but I've proposed and I've

01:20:14.350 --> 01:20:22.110
laid out everything I've done as part of this 6-year process that was going on before me

01:20:22.110 --> 01:20:28.310
and ultimately I stand behind my decisions and I do not believe the contractor should

01:20:28.310 --> 01:20:32.950
be punished for a decision that I made for the demolition of a property.

01:20:32.950 --> 01:20:34.950
Alderman Monroe.

01:20:34.950 --> 01:20:35.950
Thank you Madam Mayor.

01:20:35.950 --> 01:20:37.950
and

01:20:38.950 --> 01:20:40.950
Michael.

01:20:43.950 --> 01:20:46.950
I have a final question. You said you have done many fast track or

01:20:46.950 --> 01:20:50.950
emergency demolitions. Can you give an example of one?

01:20:50.950 --> 01:20:55.950
Many, many fast track demolitions, yes. This is the

01:20:55.950 --> 01:20:59.950
one emergency demolition that I can speak of. I said I did

01:20:59.950 --> 01:21:03.950
another emergency action of a board up of a hotel in January.

01:21:03.950 --> 01:21:12.369
and I brought both of them to council after the fact okay so if there's no

01:21:12.369 --> 01:21:18.570
more discussion I'm paying this bill madam clerk please take the role Parker

01:21:18.570 --> 01:21:30.210
aye Stacey no Shadle aye Sanders no Sellers aye Klemm Monroe no Simmons we

01:21:30.210 --> 01:21:32.650
We have a 4-4 tie, Mayor?

01:21:32.650 --> 01:21:33.650
Aye.

01:21:33.650 --> 01:21:35.010
Point of order, Chair.

01:21:35.010 --> 01:21:38.490
The resolution is adopted, 5-4.

01:21:38.490 --> 01:21:44.210
Alderman, Monroe.

01:21:44.210 --> 01:21:45.210
Thank you.

01:21:45.210 --> 01:21:49.730
I believe Mayor Miller should be disqualified from voting on this matter due to the significant

01:21:49.730 --> 01:21:51.369
conflict of interest.

01:21:51.369 --> 01:21:56.230
Specifically, Mayor Miller is related to the party that's set to receive the funds and

01:21:56.230 --> 01:21:58.970
has a financial interest in their business.

01:21:58.970 --> 01:22:04.329
This situation violates our ethical standards and contravenes several legal provisions.

01:22:04.329 --> 01:22:11.450
Illinois Administrative Code 44-3, Admin Code 7000-.30 defines a conflict of interest

01:22:11.450 --> 01:22:16.289
as a situation where a person in authority may benefit financially from a decision made

01:22:16.289 --> 01:22:23.369
in that capacity, including indirect benefits to family members or associated businesses.

01:22:23.369 --> 01:22:30.130
Also, the City of Freeport Employee Handbook, while it primarily is for City employees,

01:22:30.130 --> 01:22:34.970
emphasizes the City's commitment to an ethical conduct stating that no employee should use

01:22:34.970 --> 01:22:39.650
their position to promote a personal business interest and this reflects the City's stance

01:22:39.650 --> 01:22:41.829
against conflicts of interest.

01:22:41.829 --> 01:22:47.650
In light of these considerations, I respectfully request that the Chair disqualify themselves

01:22:47.650 --> 01:22:52.930
from voting on this matter to uphold our organization's integrity and comply with applicable laws

01:22:52.930 --> 01:22:55.490
of Federal, State, and Local Ordinances.

01:22:55.490 --> 01:23:00.650
Well, that's a nice little rehearsed piece there.

01:23:00.650 --> 01:23:06.810
I would have to say that conflict of interest, I'm not a city employee, I'm an elected official,

01:23:06.810 --> 01:23:10.010
and I believe at the last one you actually abstained, but what would have been your reason?

01:23:10.010 --> 01:23:11.770
I don't even think you said it.

01:23:11.770 --> 01:23:18.890
So if I choose to vote, I believe that's my right.

01:23:18.890 --> 01:23:20.810
I appeal the decision of the chair then.

01:23:20.810 --> 01:23:25.930
What do we do, what do we do with an appeal, I don't know what that is.

01:23:25.930 --> 01:23:26.930
Adam Clark?

01:23:26.930 --> 01:23:29.289
Can we have the definition of a family member?

01:23:29.289 --> 01:23:34.010
I think, I think the owner is your first cousin once removed.

01:23:34.010 --> 01:23:35.010
Is that correct?

01:23:35.010 --> 01:23:39.329
Well, and it's, it's a person that's been doing business with the city for many, many

01:23:39.329 --> 01:23:40.329
years.

01:23:40.329 --> 01:23:41.329
Prior to my...

01:23:41.329 --> 01:23:42.329
That you have no interest in the business.

01:23:42.329 --> 01:23:43.329
...direction.

01:23:43.329 --> 01:23:44.329
Yeah.

01:23:44.329 --> 01:23:45.329
So...

01:23:45.329 --> 01:23:47.210
And you have no interest, financial interest in the business.

01:23:47.210 --> 01:23:48.210
None, none.

01:23:48.210 --> 01:23:54.130
it's your uncle and your cousin i i i believe i know who my relatives are it's not an uncle

01:23:54.130 --> 01:23:59.650
yeah so it's completely out of order so i'm asking so yeah this is out of order so you we don't have

01:23:59.650 --> 01:24:06.690
a parliamentary ruling by the by the chair here like as to whether or not you know who gets to

01:24:06.690 --> 01:24:13.570
speak or or this or that that you could you know appeal the decision uh there's statue says that

01:24:13.570 --> 01:24:15.570
make a motion to reconsider that vote.

01:24:16.690 --> 01:24:17.850
I believe she's not saying the mayor does that when there is a

01:24:17.850 --> 01:24:19.850
vote.

01:24:21.570 --> 01:24:23.570
When there is a tie, the mayor gets to cast a vote on that.

01:24:25.090 --> 01:24:27.090
She casts a vote.

01:24:28.450 --> 01:24:29.890
I'm appealing that vote under the robberts rules as well as the

01:24:29.890 --> 01:24:31.890
rules of this Chamber.

01:24:33.409 --> 01:24:35.409
Would she so eloquently say we need to follow this evening?

01:24:36.770 --> 01:24:38.770
I guess I'm not sure.

01:24:39.970 --> 01:24:41.970
You're asking for a motion to

01:24:41.970 --> 01:24:46.650
in a decision where a member has a personal interest that can lead to a violation of state

01:24:46.650 --> 01:24:51.210
and local ordinances, potentially resulting in legal consequences for the individual and

01:24:51.210 --> 01:24:52.210
the city.

01:24:52.210 --> 01:24:58.930
Alderman Rowe, I guess my response would be to that is, just as with any elected official,

01:24:58.930 --> 01:25:03.390
if someone feels they should abstain, they have the right to abstain, but you're not

01:25:03.390 --> 01:25:06.490
obligated to abstain if you don't want to.

01:25:06.490 --> 01:25:10.369
I'm not obligated, so my vote stands.

01:25:10.369 --> 01:25:18.369
Alderman Klemm I'd just like to bring up the fact that this

01:25:18.369 --> 01:25:25.770
project was posted to the community for bidding. Anybody could bid it. Elber bid it as a low

01:25:25.770 --> 01:25:32.170
bid. We contracted with him to take it down and he took it down. There isn't a reason

01:25:32.170 --> 01:25:36.770
in the world that we shouldn't pay him. Alderman Sanders

01:25:36.770 --> 01:25:43.890
all of that, this whole commentary that you guys are demonstrating before the public here.

01:25:43.890 --> 01:25:53.329
And yeah, I resent the fact that you questioned ethics at the very beginning of our council

01:25:53.329 --> 01:26:02.130
meeting. I think it was very inappropriate for you to project that kind of comment or

01:26:02.130 --> 01:26:03.130
Southerland.

01:26:03.130 --> 01:26:10.450
And I'm going to talk about the fact that you're making it and then give an explanation

01:26:10.450 --> 01:26:13.850
to why you're making it.

01:26:13.850 --> 01:26:20.430
And where did you pull that out of your hat is what got me perturbed right now, because

01:26:20.430 --> 01:26:27.409
it's like you pulled that out from somewhere, but no one was able to rebut you on the whole

01:26:27.409 --> 01:26:28.409
circumstances.

01:26:28.409 --> 01:26:35.409
and so and when I'm sitting here listening to you doing it again you're out of order and I have a

01:26:35.409 --> 01:26:41.130
right to say that you're out of order and reject whatever your sentiments are about the vote the

01:26:41.130 --> 01:26:47.890
voting cast casting that took just taking place yeah it should you should be repealed because if

01:26:47.890 --> 01:26:54.570
there is a conflict of interest and and the council have an interest in wanting to investigate it then

01:26:54.570 --> 01:26:58.210
and we should have that opportunity to do so.

01:26:58.210 --> 01:27:12.409
And so while we're talking about it and you, I just don't get how it is that you can vote

01:27:12.409 --> 01:27:15.570
for something that has a conflict of interest.

01:27:15.570 --> 01:27:20.289
You as the mayor trying to break a conflict of interest.

01:27:20.289 --> 01:27:21.930
I don't see how you can do that.

01:27:28.050 --> 01:27:30.130
Okay, then the conversation is done.

01:27:30.130 --> 01:27:31.930
We'll move on to item number 17,

01:27:31.930 --> 01:27:34.570
which is the adoption of resolution 2025-29.

01:27:34.570 --> 01:27:35.890
Could you please read this?

01:27:35.890 --> 01:27:38.369
Resolution approving a customer work agreement

01:27:38.369 --> 01:27:40.510
with ComEd to upgrade street lights.

01:27:45.369 --> 01:27:46.210
Darren?

01:27:46.210 --> 01:27:47.030
Yeah.

01:27:47.030 --> 01:27:48.990
So at the last meeting,

01:27:48.990 --> 01:28:00.990
I was tasked, I'm not going to go through the whole memo, but I was tasked to work on the list of high crime areas in the city of Freeport and get lights replaced.

01:28:00.990 --> 01:28:08.990
I received a list from Cecelia and from Chief Shenberger.

01:28:08.990 --> 01:28:16.990
I went through the list. We went block by block over the list with ComEd.

01:28:16.990 --> 01:28:24.909
Hed, they actually came out and did a survey. I authorized an agreement for 63 light replacements

01:28:24.909 --> 01:28:35.590
at a cost of $23,562. We authorized that last week. You guys decided at the last meeting

01:28:35.590 --> 01:28:42.550
it was an emergency to move this forward. The estimated increase in light cost is $5

01:28:42.550 --> 01:29:12.550
Miller, Mayor, Mayor,

01:29:12.550 --> 01:29:18.390
Crock, Avenue, and the areas identified in the memo.

01:29:18.390 --> 01:29:19.950
We research solar lights.

01:29:19.950 --> 01:29:24.990
I had a couple calls today with some lighting options.

01:29:24.990 --> 01:29:27.510
I have a breakout of those lights.

01:29:27.510 --> 01:29:33.710
Ultimately, anywhere that we currently have ComEd lighting in our city, where there's

01:29:33.710 --> 01:29:42.530
existing poles and existing arms to put the Cobra heads on, the existing lights are about

01:29:42.530 --> 01:29:48.450
about 50% cheaper over a 20-year period than solar lights would be.

01:29:48.450 --> 01:29:57.490
In my research today talking to a couple companies, solar lights are good installation practices

01:29:57.490 --> 01:30:02.890
when there isn't existing ComEd or they're underground and you have to set new poles.

01:30:02.890 --> 01:30:07.329
They admitted that they can't compete on the cost of that full term.

01:30:07.329 --> 01:30:08.409
Until the Breakout Over...

01:30:08.409 --> 01:30:23.409
So the breakout over a 20 year period, a ComEd 40 to 60 watt light which is our standard that we have all over Freeport costs the city about $2,400 in rental cost and upkeep cost and lighting cost as well.

01:30:23.409 --> 01:30:32.409
So those lights have a $10 rental cost per month and about $5 in electricity per month to our what they call our tower account.

01:30:32.409 --> 01:30:39.130
County, the 149-watt ones will have a cost of $15 per month and an average estimated

01:30:39.130 --> 01:30:42.689
electrical cost of $8 per month.

01:30:42.689 --> 01:30:49.569
In the same scenario for solar lightings, if we buy 50 lights at a time, the cost of

01:30:49.569 --> 01:30:52.569
the lighting poles would be $4,100.

01:30:52.569 --> 01:30:59.369
If we don't buy 50 at a time and let's say we buy five at a time, the cost goes to $4,600.

01:30:59.369 --> 01:31:07.250
Each pole will cost $1,500 to install and each pole will cost an average of $580 to

01:31:07.250 --> 01:31:10.449
ship to Freeport during that purchase price.

01:31:10.449 --> 01:31:18.649
So a 20-year comparison on a, and these were 80-watt lights is what the solar ones were,

01:31:18.649 --> 01:31:22.809
a 20-year cost on that is $7,780.

01:31:22.809 --> 01:31:29.289
The batteries that light solar lights are only good for 10 to 12 years max and they're

01:31:29.289 --> 01:31:30.289
and others.

01:31:30.289 --> 01:31:31.970
We have a replacement cost of $700.

01:31:31.970 --> 01:31:39.130
The light itself is only good for 20 years and has a replacement cost today to $200 a

01:31:39.130 --> 01:31:40.130
piece.

01:31:40.130 --> 01:31:46.250
And the photo pail cell is currently $200 a piece to replace and they're estimated it

01:31:46.250 --> 01:31:48.250
will last for about 30 years.

01:31:48.250 --> 01:31:54.729
So upfront cost wise and the 10 and 20 year comparison, there really wasn't any comparison

01:31:54.729 --> 01:31:55.729
now.

01:31:55.729 --> 01:32:02.729
and the City of Freeport right now in 2025 will cost $374. The installation is included in that price and the maintenance costs that we pay will replace that light for life. So there will be no future cost other than that.

01:32:25.729 --> 01:32:28.369
and the maintenance that we pay monthly.

01:32:28.369 --> 01:32:30.630
Is there a motion to adopt this resolution?

01:32:32.369 --> 01:32:33.369
I make a motion.

01:32:34.609 --> 01:32:35.849
Second it.

01:32:35.849 --> 01:32:38.250
We have a motion made by Alderman Stacy,

01:32:38.250 --> 01:32:40.289
seconded by Alderman Sanders.

01:32:40.289 --> 01:32:42.789
Discussion on the resolution, Alderman Sanders.

01:32:44.050 --> 01:32:45.569
Yeah, Director Darin.

01:32:48.329 --> 01:32:50.769
We're talking about the installation

01:32:50.769 --> 01:32:53.329
of these lights and everything,

01:32:53.329 --> 01:32:58.329
but are there going to be, are we able to get the effectiveness

01:32:58.649 --> 01:33:01.769
and the brightness from these lights that are,

01:33:01.769 --> 01:33:05.729
we're talking LED probably type lights

01:33:05.729 --> 01:33:08.970
and the looms are going to be at the highest peak

01:33:08.970 --> 01:33:13.710
of the looms that we can receive from these lightings

01:33:13.710 --> 01:33:15.789
that we're purchasing of that price.

01:33:15.789 --> 01:33:19.869
Yeah, so 149 watt light and the Cobra head style,

01:33:19.869 --> 01:33:22.349
the widest looms or the strongest looms you can get

01:33:22.349 --> 01:33:52.349
and others. 18,000 looms and that's what we've ordered with ComEd. They actually wanted to order, I think it was a 15,000 loom and I told them no to go to the brighter lights. I will tell you LED is brighter, right? So I don't want to get too bright. So you know, where we're burning earth house gas at night on Oak Street, but these should be plenty bright enough for the area. I walked down the area myself, there's a pole or excuse me, there's a light on this specific block of Oak we keep discussing. There's a light

01:33:52.349 --> 01:33:57.630
about every third pole, if not every other pole. So it should be much, much brighter.

01:33:57.630 --> 01:34:01.949
I would say anything more than that would be disruptive to the residents, you know,

01:34:01.949 --> 01:34:09.269
properties themselves. We did address every light on Chief's list. It's a starting point.

01:34:09.269 --> 01:34:14.470
I don't know that it's a finishing point, but it's a starting point. If, you know,

01:34:14.470 --> 01:34:18.949
there are programs, I'm going to tell you, I have done more light research in the last

01:34:18.949 --> 01:34:48.949
Binkley, and I have a whole lot of work to do. I think there's a whole lot of work in this next week and a half that I'd like to have done in my whole life. But there's programs out there to change every light in town. But it's going to be very expensive, and it will be an added cost to every user in this town per month for the rest of our life if we want to do that. This is a starting point. I don't have the exact number of lights we have, but I believe it's over 1500 lights.

01:34:48.949 --> 01:34:53.869
Will we still be cutting back trees?

01:34:53.869 --> 01:34:55.149
Yes, we are.

01:34:55.149 --> 01:35:00.590
A matter of fact, Pat was out on a tour this week

01:35:00.590 --> 01:35:02.229
with Rob and myself.

01:35:02.229 --> 01:35:03.510
We went at different times.

01:35:03.510 --> 01:35:08.189
So some of the trees, we're trying to get them clipped back.

01:35:08.189 --> 01:35:11.149
Base, I will be honest with you, our number one

01:35:11.149 --> 01:35:13.470
focus of trimming trees back is generally

01:35:13.470 --> 01:35:15.750
started on the streets that we're addressing this year,

01:35:15.750 --> 01:35:21.109
and I. We're trying to get the streets paved and the material and that's the first step

01:35:21.109 --> 01:35:25.029
in the process is trimming them up. But in the crime areas, we're trying to go in there

01:35:25.029 --> 01:35:30.949
and clip all the limbs back that we can as well. The forestry crew has been working on

01:35:30.949 --> 01:35:32.829
that with the great weather we've been having.

01:35:32.829 --> 01:35:39.029
I just want to say I appreciate you. I thank you for all your hard work. This, from the

01:35:39.029 --> 01:35:46.029
Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Monroe, Simmons, The resolution is adopted.

01:36:09.029 --> 01:36:10.809
Senate, 8-0.

01:36:10.809 --> 01:36:12.010
Reports from Department heads, Finance?

01:36:12.010 --> 01:36:13.010
Nothing, Your Honor.

01:36:13.010 --> 01:36:14.010
Thank you.

01:36:14.010 --> 01:36:15.010
Community Development?

01:36:15.010 --> 01:36:16.170
Nothing, tonight, Madam Mayor.

01:36:16.170 --> 01:36:17.170
Thank you.

01:36:17.170 --> 01:36:18.170
Public Works?

01:36:18.170 --> 01:36:23.130
I believe it's only 7.30.

01:36:23.130 --> 01:36:24.269
Nothing, tonight.

01:36:24.269 --> 01:36:25.630
Thank you.

01:36:25.630 --> 01:36:26.630
Mayor?

01:36:26.630 --> 01:36:27.630
Nothing this evening.

01:36:27.630 --> 01:36:28.630
Police?

01:36:28.630 --> 01:36:29.750
I have no report.

01:36:29.750 --> 01:36:30.750
Library?

01:36:30.750 --> 01:36:36.389
I will take up all of their time.

01:36:36.389 --> 01:36:44.430
Thursday we are going to have our opening house for our exhibit titled Journey to

01:36:44.430 --> 01:36:49.229
Freedom, the Underground Railroad exhibit. Journey to Freedom Illinois's

01:36:49.229 --> 01:36:53.189
Underground Railroad is a new museum quality exhibit highlighting the

01:36:53.189 --> 01:36:57.630
courageous stories of freedom seekers and the multiracial conductors who

01:36:57.630 --> 01:37:01.510
assisted them on the Underground Railroad in Illinois. The exhibit is

01:37:01.510 --> 01:37:05.269
located on the second floor of the Freeport Public Library and is open to

01:37:05.269 --> 01:37:10.389
and the public. Experienced selected stories of freedom seekers, conductors, and communities

01:37:10.389 --> 01:37:16.329
in Illinois that were part of the journey to freedom on the Illinois Underground Railroad.

01:37:16.329 --> 01:37:22.449
This exhibit uses photos, videos, maps, personal stories, and illustrations created specifically

01:37:22.449 --> 01:37:27.989
for this exhibit and visitors will learn about the people and communities who took part in

01:37:27.989 --> 01:37:33.909
this hidden history. Highlighted stories include freedom seekers John and Eliza Little who

01:37:33.909 --> 01:37:36.470
who traveled barefoot through Illinois to Canada

01:37:36.470 --> 01:37:39.909
to gain their freedom or conductors like Henry

01:37:39.909 --> 01:37:43.889
who worked for Abraham Lincoln and Mary Ann King Brown

01:37:43.889 --> 01:37:46.649
who helped the enslaved to freedom

01:37:46.649 --> 01:37:49.829
in the Springfield, Quincy and Galena areas.

01:37:49.829 --> 01:37:54.750
This exhibit is open March 6th through April 5th

01:37:54.750 --> 01:37:57.710
for all open hours of the library.

01:37:57.710 --> 01:38:02.710
It is a collaboration between the Lincoln Douglas Society,

01:38:02.710 --> 01:38:09.710
and the Greater Freeport Partnership, the Library, and Looking for Lincoln, which is a state organization.

01:38:09.710 --> 01:38:11.710
Can you repeat those dates again?

01:38:11.710 --> 01:38:13.710
March 6th through April 5th.

01:38:13.710 --> 01:38:14.710
Thank you.

01:38:14.710 --> 01:38:19.710
And then we have featured events that you can find on our calendar, in our newsletter,

01:38:19.710 --> 01:38:24.710
but this open house is this Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

01:38:24.710 --> 01:38:25.710
Thank you.

01:38:25.710 --> 01:38:26.710
IT?

01:38:26.710 --> 01:38:28.710
City Manager?

01:38:28.710 --> 01:38:33.470
Manager. I think Your Honor just wanted to report another successful Refresh Freeport

01:38:33.470 --> 01:38:41.630
event where we collected over 25 tons of garbage and over 50 mattresses. So that's work our

01:38:41.630 --> 01:38:46.670
crews no longer have to contend with and we thank everybody for participating. And I have

01:38:46.670 --> 01:38:51.670
nothing new this evening. Alderman Parker? Nothing tonight, Your Honor. Alderman Statham?

01:38:51.670 --> 01:38:57.590
Nothing, thank you. Alderman Schaefer? I'd like to mention the Sixth Ward Neighborhood

01:38:57.590 --> 01:39:01.829
Watches this Thursday night at 6 p.m. at Schwartz Park Boulevard.

01:39:01.829 --> 01:39:02.829
Alderman Sanders?

01:39:02.829 --> 01:39:03.829
Alderman Sellers?

01:39:03.829 --> 01:39:13.029
Yes, I would just like everyone to remember to join the Citizens Utility Board Environmental

01:39:13.029 --> 01:39:18.590
Study Group and State Representative John Cabello to learn about how to reduce your

01:39:18.590 --> 01:39:22.829
utility bills and to tap into money-saving clean energy programs.

01:39:22.829 --> 01:39:29.829
It is Thursday, March 6th, 530 to 730 at the Freeport Public Library and thank you.

01:39:29.829 --> 01:39:30.829
Alderman Klemm?

01:39:30.829 --> 01:39:33.829
Just a reminder of Neighborhood Watch later this month.

01:39:33.829 --> 01:39:37.829
I'll get information out to all the constituents.

01:39:37.829 --> 01:39:38.829
Thank you very much.

01:39:38.829 --> 01:39:39.829
Alderman Monroe?

01:39:39.829 --> 01:39:40.829
Nothing to nightmare.

01:39:40.829 --> 01:39:41.829
Alderman Simmons?

01:39:41.829 --> 01:39:42.829
No.

01:39:42.829 --> 01:39:43.829
No, I don't.

01:39:43.829 --> 01:39:44.829
Thank you.

01:39:44.829 --> 01:39:48.829
That leaves us with public comment.

01:39:48.829 --> 01:39:51.829
Are there any public comments this evening?

01:39:51.829 --> 01:40:03.069
take your pick whichever one's come first I just want to thank director Darren can

01:40:03.069 --> 01:40:07.689
you can you identify yourself please Micaiah Stacy sorry I just want to thank

01:40:07.689 --> 01:40:10.449
director Darren

01:40:10.449 --> 01:40:14.449
I just want to thank Director Darren for all the work you've put in getting us our lights.

01:40:14.449 --> 01:40:21.449
I know it's been a back-and-forth problem on the council floor, but I feel like this entire time you've been set on making Freeport a better, safer place.

01:40:21.449 --> 01:40:25.449
So I appreciate you. Thank you.

01:40:25.449 --> 01:40:31.449
Next.

01:40:31.449 --> 01:40:33.449
My name is Kia Sanders.

01:40:33.449 --> 01:40:38.449
I just want to say like when you use the word emergency, that doesn't mean four years in gap.

01:40:38.449 --> 01:40:44.449
Got to be raising a question. I mean, my head's too thick or maybe I'm crazy, but that doesn't mean emergency to me.

01:40:44.449 --> 01:40:50.449
And then I want to know, like, pay somebody that is going to have to pay me.

01:40:50.449 --> 01:40:58.449
As a, I don't know why you decided to, you know, not to tell them that there is a pending lawsuit against this city of Freeport.

01:40:58.449 --> 01:41:04.449
At any given time, they're going to pay me for the stuff they stole or for knocking down my house.

01:41:04.449 --> 01:41:16.449
Somebody is going to pay me. The fact that you show no compassion about a citizen having a problem, and you don't even question why he used the word emergency and waited four years.

01:41:16.449 --> 01:41:25.449
And this is the only case that he does like this. And I just want to thank Alderman Stacy and Alderman Monroe for noticing and working for the people, not just me.

01:41:25.449 --> 01:41:32.449
I believe if it wasn't me, somebody else going through what I'm going through, they would also fight the battle. Appreciate you.

01:41:32.449 --> 01:41:40.970
any other public comments three minutes Linda Johnson I just want to invite the

01:41:40.970 --> 01:41:46.970
public to the meet-and-greet that's going to be March 5th 6 to 8 at the Eagles

01:41:46.970 --> 01:41:52.050
Club to meet and greet those writing candidates for district 145 Pat Ludwig

01:41:52.050 --> 01:41:56.970
and Dennis Myers plus all the candidates that are running for office will be at

01:41:56.970 --> 01:42:01.609
this meet-and-greet so we'd like people to come out and meet them any other

01:42:01.609 --> 01:42:12.210
Dickerman, do you like that picture of the, I got for you?

01:42:12.210 --> 01:42:14.729
I love Jersey Mike, so yeah, it was a good picture.

01:42:14.729 --> 01:42:19.170
And Don Parker, I just wanted to tell you, you did a good job.

01:42:19.170 --> 01:42:22.449
You did best of all of them in the three points.

01:42:22.449 --> 01:42:23.449
Thank you, Don.

01:42:23.449 --> 01:42:27.569
Are there any other public comments this evening?

01:42:27.569 --> 01:42:28.569
Then that concludes our meeting.

01:42:28.569 --> 01:42:30.489
I'll take a motion for adjournment.

01:42:30.489 --> 01:42:32.329
Move.

01:42:32.329 --> 01:42:33.329
All those in favor?

01:42:33.329 --> 01:42:33.829
Aye.