# Meeting Events

Meeting: `7vg8drdocw8.city_council_meeting_9_15_2025`

Meeting date: `2025-09-15`

Meeting type: `city_council`

This is a deterministic derived artifact, not official meeting minutes. Related records may be grouped for review while complete machine provenance remains in the JSON artifact.

## Decisions and Votes

- **Approval of Consent Agenda Items** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve consent agenda items.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle, City Council
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second.”
  - **Evidence:** “Sanders? Here. On the consent agenda, do you approve? No. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Simmons, Parker, Stacy, and Shadle. The motion passes 6 to 2.5 to 2.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [08:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=502s)

- **Lease of property ordinance vote tally**
  - **Summary:** A vote was taken on the lease of property ordinance.
  - **Evidence:** “Klemm, Johnson, Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, I have five to two. For the lease of property an ordinance has to pass by three fourths vote of the corporate authority so three fourths of nine so because the corporate authorities are the council plus the mayor you would need a vote of seven in order to pass so this would not pass.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [16:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=978s)

- **Adding 15-year term to SSA document** — Passed
  - **Summary:** A motion was made to add underlying language clarifying that the SSA tax assessment period is for 15 years.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle
  - **Evidence:** “So is there. So, is there a motion to add the 15 years into the document? So moved. Second.”
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, could you please take the role on the amendment of adding the language of 15 years to the document? Sanders? Yes. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. And Shadle? Aye. The motion passes seven to zero.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [19:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1197s)

- **Ordinance passage based on special assessment agreement** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The ordinance passes seven to zero.
  - **Evidence:** “And the ordinance passes seven to zero.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1518s)

- **Motion on development at Pearl City Road** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The motion passed 5 to 2.
  - **Evidence:** “Sanders? No. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. And Shadle? Aye. The motion passes 5 to 2.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [39:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2375s)

- **Moving forward with Ordinance 2025-57 (Operations Superintendent)**
  - **Summary:** A motion was made to move forward with the ordinance creating the Operations Superintendent position.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to move this forward? So moved. Second.”
  - **Evidence:** “A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [20:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1201s)

- **Motion to suspend rules** — Failed
  - **Summary:** The motion to suspend rules was voted upon, requiring a two-thirds majority.
  - **Evidence:** “It was passed by two thirds majority. Madam Clerk, would you please take the role in the suspension only? Sanders? No. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? No. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. And Shadle? Aye. The motion to suspend fails because it needs two thirds and we only ended up with what, four to three?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [46:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2807s)

- **Moving on from failed motion** — Failed
  - **Summary:** The council decided to move on to the next regularly scheduled meeting item.
  - **Evidence:** “So that's still one pass. Okay. So the suspension fails. We'll move this on to the next regularly scheduled meeting.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2880s)

- **Planning Commission recommendation on vacation rentals ordinance**
  - **Summary:** The Planning Commission recommended approval of a text amendment pertaining to vacation rentals with what was said earlier, eliminating them from the single-family residences.
  - **Attribution:** staff
  - **Evidence:** “And with that in mind, staff is recommending moving this ordinance forward. Is there a motion to move this forwarder?”
  - **Review flags:** unattached_motion_request
  - **Source timestamp:** [51:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3113s)

- **Ordinance to discuss moving forward on vacation rentals amendment**
  - **Summary:** A motion was made by Alderman Klemm and seconded by Alderman Shadle.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Klemm
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3120s)

- **Adoption of Resolution authorizing payment for tire recycling invoice**
  - **Summary:** Motion to adopt Resolution 2025-109.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle, City Council
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second.”
  - **Evidence:** “Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye.”

- **Adoption of resolution (unspecified)** — Adopted
  - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Johnson.
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Johnson.”
  - **Evidence:** “Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. And Shadle? Aye. The resolution is adopted six to zero.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:11:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4274s)

- **Adoption of resolution 2025-111: Trick-or-treating date and hours for 2025** — Adopted
  - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to adopt? Second. Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  - **Evidence:** “Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. And Shadle? Aye. The resolution is adopted, 6-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:12:32](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4352s)

- **Adoption of resolution 2025-112: Contract with FLOC safety**
  - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:14:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4475s)

- **Adoption of resolution for chief to move forward on camera project**
  - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Shadle and seconded by Alderman Parker regarding the adoption of a resolution.
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:14:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4475s)

- **Adoption of Community Solar Resolution**
  - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Shadle to approve moving forward with community solar through Illinois Shine.
  - **Evidence:** “Staff is recommending the City Council to approve moving forward with the community solar with Illinois Shine to receive solar credit incentives. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved.”
  - **Evidence:** “Second. The motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.”
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. The motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:23:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5038s)

- **Council vote on allocating solar fund money** — Failed
  - **Summary:** The resolution failed with three votes in favor and four against.
  - **Evidence:** “I have three in favor, four against and the resolution fails.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:29:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5349s)

- **Approving electrical aggregation agreement with MC squared**
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the contract with MC squared.
  - **Evidence:** “So I move.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:30:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5428s)

- **Seconding motion on electrical aggregation agreement**
  - **Summary:** Motion seconded by Alderman Shadle.
  - **Evidence:** “Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:30:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5428s)

- **Resolution adoption vote count** — Adopted
  - **Summary:** The resolution was adopted by a vote of five to three.
  - **Evidence:** “The resolution is adopted five to three. Item number 15 is the adoption of resolution 2025-115.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:45:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6351s)

- **Adoption of MOU for foreman pay increase**
  - **Summary:** Seconding the motion regarding the foreman pay increase.
  - **Evidence:** “recommendation to move forward with this $5 an hour increase to the foreman to cover for the street the street superintendent's time off. Is there a motion to adopt?”
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. The motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:05:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7505s)

- **Resolution Adoption** — Adopted
  - **Summary:** The resolution was adopted by a vote of 5-2.
  - **Evidence:** “The adoption, the resolution is adapted 5-2. Item number 16 is the adoption of resolution 2025-116.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:50:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6631s)

- **Roll call for resolution vote** — Adopted
  - **Summary:** A roll call was taken regarding a resolution.
  - **Attribution:** Madam Clerk
  - **Evidence:** “If there's nothing further, Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? Sanders? No. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? No. Parker? No. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. We have three in favor, four against, the resolution is not adopted, it fails.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:02:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7355s)

- **Approval of bid for sewer lining**
  - **Summary:** Seconding the motion to approve the bid.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle
  - **Evidence:** “There will be a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:05:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7505s)

- **Motion outcome for Item number 18** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The motion passed with a vote of 6-7 to 0.
  - **Evidence:** “The motion passes 6-7 to 0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:07:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7621s)

## Procedural Actions

- **Alderman Simmons attendance record**
  - **Summary:** The clerk noted Alderman Simmons joined at 6:22.
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, could you please note for the record that Alderman Simmons joined at 622. 622. Correct.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [07:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=428s)

- **Consent Agenda review**
  - **Summary:** The consent agenda is considered routine unless a council member requests removal for further discussion.
  - **Evidence:** “So we'll move on to item number four, which is the consent agenda. The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature, unless there's a member of the council who would like to have something removed for further discussion.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [07:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=445s)

- **Consent Agenda items approved for filing**
  - **Summary:** The consent agenda included approving to receive and place on file Building permit reports, police department reports, and fire department reports all dated August 2025; the proclamation for National Sea Treks train week, September 15th through the 21st; approval for the 2026 holiday schedule, City Council schedule, and the Committee of the Whole schedule.
  - **Evidence:** “The consent agenda consists of approving to receive and place on file business, I'm sorry, Building permit reports, police department reports, and fire department reports all dated August 2025. The proclamation for National Sea Treks thinks train week, September 15th through the 21st. Approval for the 2026 holiday schedule, City Council schedule, and the Committee of the Whole schedule.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [07:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=459s)

- **Adherence to Robert's Rules of Order**
  - **Summary:** A procedural discussion occurred regarding adherence to speaking rules, with one party stating that specific questions should be handled via a phone call.
  - **Evidence:** “Let's review rules of Robert's Rules. When someone has the floor, please allow them to speak. This back and forth doesn't happen. If you have specific questions, that's a phone call.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=867s)

- **Implementation of procedural rules**
  - **Summary:** A statement was made asserting authority over implementing Robert's Rules or home rule.
  - **Evidence:** “You can't implement a Robert's Rule nor a home rule. I am the chair of this.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=878s)

- **Moving to next agenda item**
  - **Summary:** The meeting moved on to item number six, which is the second reading of ordinance 2025-57.
  - **Evidence:** “Thank you attorney. We'll move on to item number six which is the second reading of ordinance 2025-57.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [16:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1015s)

- **Second reading of Ordinance 2025-56**
  - **Summary:** Item number seven is the second reading of Ordinance 2025-56.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number seven is the second reading of Ordinance 2025-56.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1518s)

- **First reading of Ordinance 2025-57**
  - **Summary:** Item number 8 was the first reading of Ordinance 2025-57, which revises codified ordinances to create the position of Operations Superintendent.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 8 is. Item number 8 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-57. Could you please read this? Ordinance revising codified ordinances to create the position of Operations Superintendent.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [39:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2387s)

- **Motion for suspension of the rules**
  - **Summary:** A motion was made by Alderman Klemm and Shadle for suspension of the rules, which was stated as not debatable.
  - **Evidence:** “Oh, actually, it was a request for suspension of the rules if someone wants to make that motion. So moved. Second. The motion made by Alderman Klemm, and Shadle for suspension of the rules. It's not debatable.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [46:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2773s)

- **Adoption of Resolution 2025-114**
  - **Summary:** The council moved to item number 14, which is the adoption of resolution 2025-114.
  - **Evidence:** “Move on to item number 14, which is the adoption of resolution 2025-114.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:29:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5349s)

- **Council Agenda Management**
  - **Summary:** A participant urged the council to stay on task regarding contract negotiations.
  - **Evidence:** “But I'm just saying get them a contract. Let's stay on task here. Is there any questions? Yep, let's stay on task. Please stop being disruptive.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:50:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6617s)

- **Call to Order/Roll Call Check**
  - **Summary:** The City Clerk requested the role be taken by Madam Clerk.
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, please take the role.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:50:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6631s)

- **Adoption of Minutes/Action**
  - **Summary:** A procedural request was made regarding adopting minutes or another minute.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders
  - **Evidence:** “Your four minutes has expired, Aldrin Sanders. Can I adopt it? Yeah, your four minutes has expired. Can I adopt it? Can I adopt another minute?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:00:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7241s)

- **Council vote on recommendation for City Manager**
  - **Summary:** The council was reminded that the final say on approving the city manager is with the council.
  - **Attribution:** Attorney Zito
  - **Evidence:** “Attorney Zito. Just for clarification, this contract is being presented to you, the council, to vote on. You can vote yes or no on it. You guys have the final say on whether or not to approve who the city manager is recommending. It's just a recommendation. The council has the final say on it. And that's what's before you guys tonight.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:01:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7265s)

- **Seconding procedural action**
  - **Summary:** A second was requested for a procedural matter.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders
  - **Evidence:** “Well, I want my second. So unless there's any further discussion. I want my second.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:01:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7302s)

- **Procedural confirmation**
  - **Summary:** Confirmation that a second was given and accepted.
  - **Evidence:** “You would like your second? Yeah. I like my second. Okay. Go ahead.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:01:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7306s)

- **Roll Call for Council Members**
  - **Summary:** The City Clerk called the roll to determine attendance.
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Sanders? Oh yes. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. And Shadle? Aye.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:06:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7579s)

- **Tonight's meeting limitation on voting**
  - **Summary:** No votes can happen tonight; any action must be put out for a future council meeting.
  - **Evidence:** “You can't vote on anything. You can't vote tonight. Tonight's a discussion only.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:20:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8447s)

- **Adjournment motion**
  - **Summary:** A motion was made and seconded for adjournment.
  - **Evidence:** “I'll entertain a motion for adjournment. So moved. Second. Seconded by Alderman Parker. All those in favor? Aye.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:40:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9650s)

## Ordinances and Resolutions

- **Ordinance 2025-53: Lease Renewal with Pete Albert**
  - **Summary:** Second reading of ordinance authorizing the city to enter into a fifth renewal to lease agreement with Pete Albert for 103 to 111 South Liberty Avenue.
  - **Evidence:** “item number 5 is the second reading of ordinance 2025-53. Could you please read this? Ordinance authorizing the city to enter into a fifth renewal to lease agreement with Pete Albert for 103 to 111 South Liberty Avenue.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [09:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=545s)

- **Ordinance establishing Gladewood special service area**
  - **Summary:** The ordinance establishes a special service area in Gladewood, dedicates the subdivision roadway, and levies taxes to offset costs. The SSA ensures improvements to upper and lower entrances, including base and asphalt upgrades meeting engineering standards.
  - **Evidence:** “Ordinance establishing the Gladewood special service area and accepting dedication of roadways and levy of taxes to offset the cost of Thank you, Your Honor. So the city received a petition from a majority of property owners in the Gladewood subdivision requesting the creation of a special service area following required notices and a public meeting held on May 28th. No valid objections were filed. The ordinance establishes the special service area, dedicates the subdivision roadway to The SSA ensures improvements to the subdivision's upper and lower entrances, including roadway base and asphalt upgrades meeting engineering standards. The City will also create a sustainable mechanism for funding services to the benefit area without burdening existing taxpayers with the full cost of the needed improvements.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [17:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1021s)

- **Gladewood SSA establishment and funding mechanism**
  - **Summary:** The ordinance establishes the special service area (SSA) for Gladewood, dedicating the subdivision roadway to it. Improvements include roadway base and asphalt upgrades meeting engineering standards. The city will create a sustainable funding mechanism via an annual levy of $400 per taxable parcel across 16 parcels to offset costs.
  - **Evidence:** “The ordinance establishes the special service area, dedicates the subdivision roadway to The SSA ensures improvements to the subdivision's upper and lower entrances, including roadway base and asphalt upgrades meeting engineering standards. The City will also create a sustainable mechanism for funding services to the benefit area without burdening existing taxpayers with the full cost of the needed improvements. The ordinance provides for an annual levy of $400 per taxable parcel across 16 parcels. The revenues will offset costs of roadway maintenance and improvements specific to Gladewood ensuring equitable cost recovery.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [17:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1061s)

- **Ordinance amending Zoning Code regarding solar arrays**
  - **Summary:** Ordinance amending chapters 1248 and 1250 of the Zoning Code of the City of Freeport concerning ground mounted solar arrays.
  - **Evidence:** “Ordinance amending chapters 1248 and 1250 of the Zoning Code of the City of Freeport concerning ground mounted solar arrays.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1546s)

- **Resolution authorizing payment for tire recycling invoice**
  - **Summary:** The City of Freeport conducted a tire recycling event in August using Green Road Tire Recycling, collecting 7,029 passenger car tires and 118 semi-truck tires. The full invoice amount, about $38,000, will be paid from the Health and Environment Fund.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “Resolution authorizing the payment of an invoice from Green Road Tire Recycling for Citywide Huffines... In August, the City of Freeport conducted a tire recycling event where residents could bring passenger car and semi-truck tires to be disposed of. The City utilized the services of Green Road Tire Recycling to dispose of the tires... At the event, they collected 7,029 passenger car tires and 118 semi-truck tires. ...The full amount of the invoice, which is about 38,000, has been budgeted for and will be paid from the Health and Environment Fund.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4209s)

- **Adoption of resolution 2025-111: Trick-or-treating date and hours for 2025**
  - **Summary:** Resolution setting the date and hours for trick-or-treating in the city for 2025.
  - **Evidence:** “And we'll move on to item number 11, which is the adoption of resolution 2025-111. Resolution setting the date and hours for trick-or-treating in the city for 2025.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:11:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4305s)

- **Adoption of resolution 2025-112: Contract with FLOC safety**
  - **Summary:** Resolution approving application for contract with FLOC safety for live video cameras, additional and a license plate reader cameras and mobile trailer cameras.
  - **Evidence:** “And item number 12 is adoption of resolution 2025-112. Could you please read this? Resolution approving application for contract with FLOC safety for live video cameras, additional and a license plate reader cameras and mobile trailer cameras.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:13:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4382s)

- **Adoption of Resolution 2025-113: Community Solar Savings Program**
  - **Summary:** The item for action was the adoption of Resolution 2025-113, titled 'Resolution Endorsing Community Solar Savings Program through Illinois Shines'.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 13 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-113. Could you please read this? Resolution Endorsing Community Solar Savings Program through Illinois Shines, which is a state-administered incentive program to support the development of new solar projects.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:21:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4913s)

- **Approving an electrical aggregation agreement with low bidder for Freeport customers**
  - **Summary:** Resolution approving an electrical aggregation agreement with the low bidder for the retail supply of electric for residential and small business customers in the city of Freeport.
  - **Evidence:** “Resolution approving an electrical aggregation agreement with, if we agree on our low bidder, that'll be that person, for the retail supply of electric for residential and small business customers in the city of Freeport.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:29:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5363s)

- **Memorandum of Understanding with AFSCME for street or forest reform and Temporary Assignment as Acting Street Superintendent**
  - **Summary:** Resolution authorizing memorandum of understanding with AFSCME for street or forest reform and Temporary Assignment as Acting Street Superintendent.
  - **Evidence:** “Resolution authorizing memorandum of understanding with AFSCME for street or forest reform and Temporary Assignment as Acting Street Superintendent. That pass.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:45:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6359s)

## Financial and Contract Events

- **Finance Bills Payable**
  - **Summary:** Approval for the finance bills payable in total of $3,900,279.24.
  - **Evidence:** “Approval for the finance bills payable in total of $3,900,279.24”
  - **Source timestamp:** [08:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=484s)

- **Payroll Ending September 6th, 2025**
  - **Summary:** Approval for Payroll ending September 6th, 2025 in the total of $668,777.79.
  - **Evidence:** “and and Payroll ending September 6th, 2025 in the total of $668,777.79.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [08:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=484s)

- **Invoice payment funding**
  - **Summary:** The full amount of the invoice, which is about 38,000, has been budgeted for and will be paid from the Health and Environment Fund.
  - **Evidence:** “The full amount of the invoice, which is about 38,000, has been budgeted for and will be paid from the Health and Environment Fund.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:11:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4264s)

- **Low bid for sewer lining**
  - **Summary:** National Power Rotting was the low bidder at $419,763 under the engineering estimate for 10,813 linear feet of sanitary sewer lining.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “On September 10, 2025, Fehr Graham and city staff had a public bid for 10,813 linear feet of sanitary sewer lining. These sewer areas are identified as areas of street replacement. The city has four reputable bidders that specialize in sewer lining and submitted bids. National power rotting was the low bidder at $419,763 under the engineering estimate”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:04:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7460s)

## Projects

- **Sewer lining completion timeline** — Approved
  - **Summary:** If approved, the installation of sewer lining should be completed by February 2026.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “With approval, the installation should be completed by February 2026 and staff has budgeted this in the sewer budget.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:04:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7489s)

- **Stephenson and Perk Boulevard Intersection Project Completion**
  - **Summary:** The project completion date was expected for Friday, September 19th, but due to a gas main issue, work will continue through the next week.
  - **Attribution:** City Manager
  - **Evidence:** “The project that's going on at the intersection of Stephenson and Perk Boulevard has had an expected completion date of Friday September 19th due to a gas main issue this project will be worked on through the next week.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:29:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8985s)

## Presentations and Reports

- **Lease Details for 103 to 111 South Liberty Avenue**
  - **Summary:** Pete Elber currently leases the first floor of the Raleigh Metal clad building. There are several floors in the building that are also available for rent.
  - **Evidence:** “Manager Boyer? Thank your honor. Pete Elber currently leases the first floor of the Raleigh Metal clad building. There are several floors in the building that are also available for rent.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [09:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=545s)

- **Status of the current ordinance for council vote**
  - **Summary:** The ordinance is before the council tonight for them to vote on, and it is not a done deal; it is a draft ordinance for consideration.
  - **Evidence:** “So to address some of your questions, in addition to what manager Boyer said, the ordinance, this ordinance is before you tonight, so that the council can vote on it. This is not a done deal. It's here tonight for you guys.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=898s)

- **Ordinance draft status**
  - **Summary:** The ordinance to be considered by the council tonight is available in the packet as a draft.
  - **Evidence:** “You have a draft of an ordinance for you guys for you to approve or not approve. Has this been drafted? Has this ordinance been drafted? Yes, it's in the packet.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [15:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=949s)

- **Clarification on SSA timeframe amendment**
  - **Summary:** Manager Boyer clarified that the ordinance needs an amendment to specify a 15-year assessment period for the SSA tax, as this was inadvertently left out of the original ordinance despite prior agreements.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “So what you have counsel would be motion to add that amendments to clarify, correct, to clarify that there's 15 years put into the agreement. Right, so from the version that was previously presented to and Mary. The 15-year ordinance was also in effect for the SSA. They had agreed that this could be made filming the last council meeting, and when they asked the last council, there was inadvertently left out of the ordinance, the timeframe for which the SSA would be effective, which is 15 years.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [18:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1122s)

- **SSA funding rationale and scope**
  - **Summary:** Manager Boyer explained that the SSA is a negotiated settlement with property owners to share costs for road improvements not built to city specification, preventing the full cost from being borne by general taxpayers.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Mr. Boyer? Just to kind of hit some of the highlights. It was plotted that the road was a private street back in 19, I believe 63. No one really knew that until we did some investigation as to the relation, it related to Gladewood Bridge and who was responsible there. Because it came to our attention, then we notified the residents of the area, affected area, that it was unclear as to who the ownership. I think there were some arguments one way or the other as far as why it wasn't, why the city wasn't responsible today, but it was doing work in the past. This is essentially our negotiated settlement with the property owners in the area so that they're participating in the cost of the road that was never built to city specification and we're offsetting the cost to fix it so that it's not completely borne by the taxpayers.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [21:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1270s)

- **Background on Ordinance 2025-56 reading history**
  - **Summary:** At the first reading, the vote was five to zero to zero and attendees included Ryan Walton, Matt Moyer, Andrea Schultz-Winner, Dr. George Walker, and Dustin Wilkinson.
  - **Evidence:** “So as stated in the first the first reading it the vote was five to zero to zero and at our planning Commission and the people that were present were Ryan Walton, Matt Moyer, Andrea Schultz-Winner, Dr. George Walker, and Dustin Wilkinson.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1556s)

- **Creation of Public Works Operations Superintendent position**
  - **Summary:** The Freeport Public Works team requested that Council create a new position, Public Works Operations Superintendent, which is intended as a promotional opportunity for a department leader and will not increase the overall payroll.
  - **Evidence:** “At this time, we are requesting the creation of a new position, Public Works Operations Superintendent. This is not an additional position to the department, but a promotional opportunity for a department leader to assume more management duties and responsibilities within the combined department leadership team.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [40:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2412s)

- **First reading of ordinance 2025-58 concerning vacation rentals**
  - **Summary:** Ordinance amending chapters 810 and 1250 concerning the licensing and zoning of vacation rentals was introduced for first reading.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number nine is the first reading of ordinance 2025-58. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending chapters 810 and 1250 concerning the licensing and zoning of vacation rentals.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2892s)

- **Ordinance amending chapters 810 and 1250 concerning vacation rentals**
  - **Summary:** The Community Economic Development Department is drafting an amended ordinance to remove vacation rentals from the R1 through R4 residential district.
  - **Attribution:** Director Duckman
  - **Evidence:** “Director Duckman. Thank you, Madam Mayor. The Community Economic Development Department has been directed to draft an amended ordinance. And the idea here is that vacation rentals, which is the RBO, Airbnb. It's getting a little less technical here to kind of give you a better idea of what we're talking about. Short term rental in line with those popular products is essentially what currently happens here is you could own a single family house and you could put it on Airbnb with proper licensing and have a short term rental weekend, et cetera. So it has been brought to our attention to, and we were directed to draft a new ordinance that essentially is removing vacation rentals from the R1 through R4 residential district.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2913s)

- **Scope of proposed change for short term rentals**
  - **Summary:** The proposal is to eliminate short-term vacation rentals in single-family residences, while duplexes, three-unit, and four-unit properties would be addressed separately.
  - **Attribution:** Director Duckman
  - **Evidence:** “So again, to kind of break down what's going on here, R1 through R4, that is where you're allowed to have a single family home, not a duplex, not a four unit, that is your true one family residential neighborhoods and what has been directed and what staff is proposing tonight is eliminating short term rentals in single Family. Bauer, John, and then we have the two short-term rentals in single-family housing. That's the simplest way to kind of boil it down.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [49:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2964s)

- **Planning Commission background on vacation rentals**
  - **Summary:** A public hearing was held by the planning commission on August 14, where there was one supporter and one objector present. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the text amendment eliminating vacation rentals from single-family residences.
  - **Attribution:** Director Duckman
  - **Evidence:** “To go with a little bit of background, on August 14, a public hearing was held by our planning commission. And the outcome of that meeting was that our planning commission heard public comment. We had one supporter and one objector present. [...] The Planning Commission recommended approval of this text amendment pertaining to vacation rentals with what I had said earlier, eliminating them from the single-family residences.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3025s)

- **Trick-or-treating logistics for 2025**
  - **Summary:** The city is collaborating with the Freeport School District second graders for a civic responsibility unit, and staff recommends keeping trick-or-treating on Friday, October 31st from 5 PM To 7 PM.
  - **Evidence:** “This year, the city is collaborating with the Freeport School District second graders and their civic responsibility unit for social studies. You'll be touring City Hall and the police station and have the opportunity to role-play a City Council meeting deliberating on the same resolution. Staff recommendation is to keep the trick-or-treating on Friday, October 31st from 5 PM To 7 PM”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:12:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4327s)

- **FLOC Safety Contract Funding Strategy**
  - **Summary:** The plan is to leverage secured funding from the attorney general's office ($9,000) to start the project one month early, utilizing appropriations dollars for 2026 and 2027.
  - **Evidence:** “So I also secured organized crime retail theft grant from the attorney general's office for $9,000. So the plan basically is to leverage that money to start this project one month early that gives us into December and then utilize the appropriations dollars for the year of 2026 and 2027.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:14:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4449s)

- **Illinois Solar Energy Incentive Program Participation**
  - **Summary:** The City of Freeport can participate in the Illinois Solar Energy Incentive Program, allowing eligible accounts (100KW and under) to receive monetary bill credits over a 20-year subscription timeline.
  - **Evidence:** “Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. The City of Freeport has been asked if we would like to participate in the Illinois Solar Energy Incentive Program. Solar developers are often required to offer subscription incentives. The city's largest accounts, 100KW and under, would be eligible to receive the monetary bill credits from the program incentive. These incentive programs work on a 20-year subscription timeline, and this program was almost reviewed by Mr. Mudge, who is here tonight on September 8th, 2025.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:21:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4913s)

- **Recommendation for electrical supplier contract**
  - **Summary:** Staff recommends moving forward with MC squared for the low kilowatt provider at two years at a rate of 9.89 cents per kilowatt hour.
  - **Evidence:** “staff would recommend moving forward with MC squared for the low kilowatt provider at two years. At what rate are we talking about? At 9.89 cents per kilowatt hour.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:29:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5392s)

- **MOU for foreman pay increase due to superintendent time off**
  - **Summary:** Staff requested approval of an MOU to allow additional hourly pay for appointed foremen covering added responsibilities when the city superintendent takes personal time off, ensuring adequate rest and support.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “To ensure our staff is fully supported and has adequate time off and receives appropriate rest Downtime staff is requesting that a Memorandum of Understanding be approved by the City Council to allow for additional hourly pay for appointed foreman who takes on added responsibilities thereby covering this time off. This MOU pay will be for approved and assigned coverage only.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:46:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6393s)

- **Resolution Approving Airport Management Agreement**
  - **Summary:** Presentation regarding Resolution approving an airport management agreement with Freeport Aviation for Albertus Airport.
  - **Evidence:** “Could you please read this? Resolution approving an airport management agreement with Freeport Aviation for Albertus Airport.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:50:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6631s)

- **Airport Manager Contract RFQ Process**
  - **Summary:** The city issued a Request for Quote (RFQ) for the fixed base operator airport manager contract on August 11th, 2025.
  - **Evidence:** “The city issued reviewed a request for quote or RFQ for the fixed base operator airport manager contract for Albertus Airport on August 11th, 2025.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:50:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6631s)

- **Airport Manager Applications Review**
  - **Summary:** Initial meetings were held with four prospective applicants, and three submitted applications by the September 2nd deadline.
  - **Evidence:** “Initial meetings were held with four prospective applicants and three applicants submitted applications by the September 2nd deadline.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:51:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6677s)

- **Airport Manager Applications Opening**
  - **Summary:** Applications were opened on September 4th at City Hall, reviewed by multiple officials.
  - **Evidence:** “The applications were opened on September 4th at City Hall and reviewed opening by myself, the Mayor, Alderman Sellers, the Public Works Director Darren Steekle, City Clerk Dovie Anderson, and Attorney Steve Cox were present.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:51:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6688s)

- **Airport Manager Bidding Outcome**
  - **Summary:** The three applications received were deemed excellent, with the lowest responsible applicant being Jeff Monica Freeport, Illinois at $157,500 per year.
  - **Evidence:** “I am pleased to notify that all three applications received were excellent and all of them represented well-qualified applicants. The lowest of the three responsible applicants was Jeff Monica Freeport, Illinois at $157,500 per year.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:51:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6688s)

- **Approval of a bid for sewer lining**
  - **Summary:** Presentation regarding the bid opening on September 10th, 2025, for sewer lining.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 17 is approval of a bid. Could you please read this? We had a bid opening on September 10th, 2025, sewer lining for 2025. Manager Boyer. The City of Freeport has nearly 130 miles of sanitary sewer during the annual project hand.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:03:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7384s)

- **Illinois Business Corporation Act regarding administrative dissolution**
  - **Summary:** A speaker explained that 805 ILCS 5-1240 outlines the procedure for administrative dissolution by the secretary of state due to failure to correct a default, which involves sending notice of delinquency, followed by a certificate of dissolution if uncorrected.
  - **Evidence:** “And Stacey. I would just like to read 805 ILCS 5-1240 of the Illinois Business Corporation Act outlines the procedure for the administrative dissolution of a corporation by the secretary of state for failing to correct a default, such as failure to maintain a Are- to maintain a registered office or file required document. The secretary first sends a notice of delinquency to the corporation. If the default is not corrected within 90 days for most defaults, 30 days for certain others. The secretary issues a certificate of dissolution, formally dissolving the corporation.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:08:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7733s)

- **Proof of compliance filing**
  - **Summary:** A speaker confirmed having receipts, filed paperwork, and paid for compliance documentation on their phone.
  - **Evidence:** “Yes, I have it on my phone. If you give me a minute, I'll try to find it. But I do have it. It says receipts, filed the paperwork, paid the receipt.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:23:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8620s)

- **Department reports agenda item**
  - **Summary:** The council was informed that the next item to be discussed is item number 19: reports of department heads finance development.
  - **Evidence:** “Yeah yes then we will move on to item number 19 which is reports of department heads finance development nothing tonight madam mayor public works two things quickly”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:25:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8711s)

- **Sewer service issues for residents**
  - **Summary:** A point of clarification was given regarding recent calls about sewer laterals or Sewer Services at homes that have root issues.
  - **Evidence:** “we've had a significant amount of calls recently about sewer laterals or or Sewer Services at homes that have root issues. Just a point of clarification for residents.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:25:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8711s)

- **Sewer laterals ownership and responsibility**
  - **Summary:** Sewer laterals or sewer services are owned by the homeowner from the house to the main; residents bear the financial burden for issues.
  - **Attribution:** Public Works Department
  - **Evidence:** “Sewer laterals or sewer services are owned by the homeowner from the house to the main. Those issues, while you can call the city and ask for assistance, those are financially borne by the residents themselves as part of our codes and ordinances.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:25:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8743s)

- **Civilian Police Academy openings**
  - **Summary:** The Freeport Police Department is accepting applications for the civilian police academy until September 26th, with planning to start on October 2nd.
  - **Attribution:** Department Head
  - **Evidence:** “First off, on the Freeport Police Department Facebook page, there is a flyer about the is a civilian police academy. So we do have openings, we're looking for more people. So if anyone's interested, you can visit our Facebook page. We're taking people until September 26th and planning on starting on October 2nd.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:26:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8812s)

- **Report Management System Switch to Central Square**
  - **Summary:** The ETSB voted to switch from the CIS system (used since approximately 2012) to Central Square, which will go live at 8:00 AM tomorrow.
  - **Attribution:** Department Head
  - **Evidence:** “So back in 2024, the Stevens County ETSB voted to switch report management systems. So currently, the Freeport Police Department, Stevens County Sheriff's Department, and FIRE, we utilize a system called CIS... And so we felt that there was a need for a change. So ETSB voted to switch to Central Square. This is a huge project. It's gonna go live tomorrow at eight o'clock.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:27:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8843s)

- **Sculpture Walk Opening Events**
  - **Summary:** The Sculpture Walk opening events include a ribbon cutting on Friday at 12 PM by the gateway area of the Arts Plaza, and a reception from 5 to 7 PM at the library.
  - **Attribution:** Library
  - **Evidence:** “I just wanted to make sure everybody here knows that the Sculpture Walk is having our big opening events this week. On Friday, there is a ribbon cutting at 12 PM, which will be down by the gateway area of the Arts Plaza. Area of the Arts Plaza. And then the reception for the sculpture walk is from 5 to 7 PM at the library.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:29:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8949s)

- **Neighborhood Watch Meeting Locations/Dates**
  - **Summary:** Multiple neighborhood watch meetings were scheduled: one this Thursday at 6:30 PM at 3002 Farmedale Lane; another Saturday block party from 1 to 4 PM and church event from 1 to 2:30 PM on Sunday at Frankenstate; a meeting next Monday night; and the Fifth Ward meeting tomorrow at 6 o'clock at the church on Carroll.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Johnson
  - **Evidence:** “Yes, we have a neighborhood watch meeting this Thursday at 630 at 3002 Farmedale Lane and also this Saturday is the block party at Franken State from 1 to 4 and Church in the from 1 to 2.30 on Sunday at Frankenstein. Alderman Simmons? No, I don't have anything, thank you. Alderman Parker? Yes... Then the others, we have a neighborhood watch meeting next Monday night. Thank you. Alderman Stacey? Fifth Ward has a neighborhood watch meeting tomorrow. It's six o'clock at the church on Carroll.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:31:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9096s)

- **Neighborhood Watch Meeting Information**
  - **Summary:** A neighborhood watch meeting is scheduled for next Monday night.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Parker
  - **Evidence:** “Then the others, we have a neighborhood watch meeting next Monday night. Thank you.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:32:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9128s)

- **Fifth Ward Neighborhood Watch Meeting**
  - **Summary:** The Fifth Ward has a neighborhood watch meeting tomorrow at six o'clock at the church on Carroll.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Parker
  - **Evidence:** “Fifth Ward has a neighborhood watch meeting tomorrow. It's six o'clock at the church on Carroll.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:32:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9134s)

## Metrics

- **Ground mount solar projects in past two years**
  - **Summary:** There has been an uptick in the amount of the solar projects over the past two years.
  - **Evidence:** “So I did a little bit of research on that. We had, and this is in the past two years, we've had an uptick in the amount of the solar projects.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [30:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1812s)

- **Tire collection statistics**
  - **Summary:** The city collected 7,029 passenger car tires and 118 semi-truck tires.
  - **Evidence:** “At the event, they collected 7,029 passenger car tires and 118 semi-truck tires.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4245s)

- **Potential savings for Freeport customers**
  - **Summary:** If customers opt for MC squared, they could save $7.50 per customer based on current usage estimates.
  - **Evidence:** “So that's saving each customer $7, $7.50 if they want it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:34:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5670s)

- **ComEd rate comparison**
  - **Summary:** The current ComEd rate is 10.6 cents per kilowatt hour, compared to a previous rate of 10.229 cents per kilowatt hour from September 25 to May 26.
  - **Evidence:** “So the majority of the residents in the city of Freeport are just on ComEd right now. And according to this paper it says that from September 25 to May 26, it's 10.229 cents per kilowatt hour. Now you're saying it's 10.6 right now? It's 10.6 because it goes from September through May on the new rate.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:43:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6215s)

- **MC2 contract rate**
  - **Summary:** The two-year MC2 contract locks in a rate of nine point eight nine cents per kilowatt hour.
  - **Evidence:** “So if we choose this contract MC2 we choose the two-year contract we would be locked in at nine point eight nine cents per kilowatt hour for those two years which is less than what we're paying now with ComEd which is the current rate is 10.6 which could change at the end of May or in May 26”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:44:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6246s)

- **Sewer lining cost comparison**
  - **Summary:** Sewer lining is over 10 times cheaper to install than open-cut excavation methods and estimates over 60 years of useful life.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Sewer lining is considered an industry accepted method of sewer main pipe rehabilitation and is more economical than open-cut excavation methods. Sewer lining is over 10 times cheaper to install and industry standards estimate over 60 years of sustainable, useful life after installation.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:04:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7440s)

## Discussion

- **RFQ and draft agreement comparison for airport future**
  - **Summary:** The RFQ and the draft agreement are two different documents with contradictions; it is essential that the approved agreement reflects what is intended for Alberta's airport's future.
  - **Evidence:** “Were agreed upon. The RFQ and the draft agreement are two different documents. They do not coincide. In fact, there are contradictions between both. There are requirements listed in the RFQ that do not appear in the draft agreement and vice versa. It is essential that the agreement you approve truly reflects what is intended and what is best for Alberta's airport's future, not just what you were told in a memo.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=0s)

- **Tax Burden on Leased Building**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding who pays taxes on the city-owned building.
  - **Evidence:** “But what you didn't speak about is how the taxes that's paid on that building is paid by the city because it's in the city's name.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [10:29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=629s)

- **Lease Agreement Tax Benefit**
  - **Summary:** Discussion questioning why the rental agreement and associated taxes are not solely on the tenant.
  - **Evidence:** “And so it's maybe a little over a hundred dollars for the whole year. But that's not accurate, Alderman Stacy. It's the, as it was discussed in the last meeting there the city is reimbursed for it yes the city is reimbursed but why get those French benefits why is in the city's name why isn't because because he's renting that floor why isn't the rental agreement drawn up and the taxes on him and not weeping the benefit of the city because We're the tech we are we own it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [10:29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=629s)

- **Lease Renewal Flexibility for Sale**
  - **Summary:** Discussion point stating a change to the lease would allow working out a sale price between now and the next renewal.
  - **Evidence:** “Where I just wanted to add There's a change to this lease. It'll allow us to work out a sale price for the building between now and the next time this renews.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [10:29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=629s)

- **Tax Burden on Potential Sale**
  - **Summary:** Discussion questioning the cost if the city were to sell the building.
  - **Evidence:** “At what cost? We're not hearing what are you wanting to sell?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [10:29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=629s)

- **Ordinance Legitimacy and Revision Need**
  - **Summary:** Questioning the legitimacy of Ordinance 2025-53 and requiring revision for council authorization.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sanders? Yeah. This ordinance that we're looking at is considered an authorized ordinance by the city of Freeport, the city. Who's authorizing this, and is it a real ordinance? Is it, because I see here, I see it's doctored up here, an Ordinance 2025-53.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [12:29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=749s)

- **Authorization and revision of leasing ordinance**
  - **Summary:** The council must authorize the lease before any consideration by Mr. Boyer, and the ordinance needs a revision to justify if the annual cost meets the value of other city properties.
  - **Evidence:** “And that means from the council. That means the council has to authorize that lease before you, Mr. Boyer, even consider, and it needs a revision. That ordinance and the leasing needs a revision for council to go back to justify whether or not the price or the annual cost of the leasing meets the value of all of the other city properties.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [12:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=773s)

- **Origin and authority of the leasing ordinance**
  - **Summary:** Questions were raised regarding where the ordinance came from, who is creating it, and how it might be bypassing city authorities, emphasizing that the council holds the authority for this specific ordinance, not the city manager.
  - **Evidence:** “And the thing about it is where is this ordinance at and where is it coming from and who's creating it? And how is it being bypassed by the authorities of the city? And we've got to remember it's the council that is the authority of this particular ordinance, not the city manager. And you can't call the shots on this particular leasing.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [13:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=810s)

- **History of rent for property leased to Pete Elber**
  - **Summary:** The building has been rented to Pete Elber since 2021 at a rate of one thousand, and in 2022, the rent increased to two thousand.
  - **Evidence:** “We've had, we've been renting that building to Pete Elber since 2021. Then the rent at that time was a thousand. Then in 2022, the rent was increased to 2000.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [13:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=839s)

- **Authorization of previous lease increases**
  - **Summary:** The city council authorized the lease four previous times.
  - **Evidence:** “City council? Yes. Okay. So in the city council is authorized it four previous times.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=853s)

- **Future status of SSA after 15 years**
  - **Summary:** Discussion occurred regarding what happens to the assessment and responsibilities after the initial 15-year period concludes.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Stacey? What do we do after the 15 years? Then it goes away. That assessment goes away. Alderman Sanders? To, well, I wanted to call it the special, the special maintenance upkeep and everything. Is it because the city is gonna take on the responsibilities of this particular site area?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [20:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1212s)

- **Concerns regarding SSA prioritization**
  - **Summary:** Huffines expressed concern that approving the Gladewood SSA might cause other necessary city infrastructure projects to be delayed.
  - **Evidence:** “Huffines. So I guess my only problem with this is we add them and then they jumped the line. Like we start on Gladewood when we've had roads that have been part of the city infrastructure and have been waiting to get done. And then this area gets to go first because we added them and haven't done it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [22:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1347s)

- **Roadway repair scope for Gladewood entry and exit**
  - **Summary:** Approximately 400 feet of the road's entry and exit area will be fixed, but the rest of Gladewood must wait for the normal road program.
  - **Evidence:** “yes we're gonna fix approximately 400 feet of that road so that the entry and exit is passable but the rest of Gladewood will have to wait in the normal road program when council brings it to staff's attention that need to move forward”
  - **Source timestamp:** [22:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1377s)

- **Special assessment for Glenwood area repairs**
  - **Summary:** Every home in this Glenwood area will be paying $400 every year for 15 years.
  - **Evidence:** “Ms. Stacey. Every home in this Glenwood area will be paying $400 every year. For 15 years.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [24:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1474s)

- **Ground mounting concern for solar arrays**
  - **Summary:** A question was raised regarding whether the City of Freeport or the residents should be concerned about the ground mounting of the product.
  - **Evidence:** “Miller. Yeah, I know that before I was rudely interrupted, I understand that. But my thing, it says concerning, there's a concern there when I'm reading this about the mounting, the ground mounting, is the City of Freeport, or the residents should be concerned about the mounting of this particular product, or what are we talking about?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [28:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1725s)

- **Planning Commission recommendation on solar arrays**
  - **Summary:** The Planning Commission members were not interested in having ground-mounted solar.
  - **Evidence:** “I sat on the Planning Commission and it was the direction of the Commission members that they are not interested in having ground-mounted solar.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [29:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1799s)

- **Solar project approvals and community feedback**
  - **Summary:** The speaker noted an uptick in solar projects due to private sector incentives, citing past approvals at Park Hills (4-0 recommendation, 5-1 planning commission, passed city council) and 1405 South Benson (ZBA recommended 5-0, Planning Commission voted 5-0).
  - **Attribution:** Don
  - **Evidence:** “So I did a little bit of research on that. We had, and this is in the past two years, we've had an uptick in the amount of the solar projects. And the reason that there's an uptick is there's many of the private sector is truly beggしゃ the installation of solar due to the fact that there's incentives to construct solar. So essentially, salespeople are, I'm sure everyone in this room has had a salesperson trying to sell them solar. So in the past year, we've had Park Hills, which is owning a port of appeals, they recommended approval four to zero. Planning commission at that point recommended five to one. It passed. One it passed city council. Park Hills has had quite a few people complain after the fact. They don't like the way it looks.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [30:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1812s)

- **Solar project approvals and community feedback**
  - **Summary:** The speaker cited another past approval at 1405 South Benson, noting the Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval five to zero and the Planning Commission voted five to zero.
  - **Evidence:** “And I think in moving on from there, we had 1405 South Benson, which was a large residential lot, the Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval five to zero. planning commission voted five to zero. That ended up passing our city council.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [31:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1906s)

- **Ground-mounted solar concerns in residential areas**
  - **Summary:** The speaker noted that community sentiment suggests the Planning Commission is aware of public dissatisfaction regarding ground-mounted solar in residential neighborhoods, citing 1161 West Lincoln failing City Council and Harmony Church being a highly contested project.
  - **Evidence:** “One and John. The attitudes of our people have said, our Planning Commission was listening and was saying, okay, we remember what happened at Park Hills Church. We know that our community isn't happy about ground-mounted solar residential neighborhoods and you're starting to see it in the evidence because 1161 West Lincoln, Planning Commission voted against it. It failed City Council. Then you look at Harmony Church, that was a highly contested ground-mounted solar project.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [32:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=1972s)

- **Planning Commission recommendation regarding ground-mounted solar**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated the Planning Commission directed staff to draft an ordinance to eliminate ground-mounted solar zoning in residential neighborhoods because it was not well received.
  - **Evidence:** “So at this point you're starting to see our planning commission is digging in its heels, not really seeing the connection to our community with ground mounted solar. Ultimately that did pass council, although it took several hearings before it was heard. So the point here is that to your point, to your point, our planning commission noticed that it's not really been, it was not well received in our community and they directed staff to draft an ordinance that would eliminate it zoning wise in residential neighborhoods.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [33:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2006s)

- **Solar department feel influencing votes**
  - **Summary:** The speaker questioned if the information provided by the zoning department regarding their feelings is being used to sway votes.
  - **Evidence:** “Director Duckman. Yes. I think giving all that information about how the zoning department feel is being said to sway the vote.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [34:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2044s)

- **Number of ground-mounted solar approvals in past two years**
  - **Summary:** The speaker asked how many ground-mounted solar projects had been approved in the past two years, and was told three out of four.
  - **Evidence:** “My original question was in the past two years, how many have we approved? We've approved three out of four. We have approved three out of the four.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [34:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2064s)

- **Current stance on ground-mounted solar approvals**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated that no ground-mounted solar projects would be approved tonight, as they are trying to remove them.
  - **Evidence:** “We're not approving any ground monitor tonight. We're trying to remove it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [34:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2080s)

- **Consistency of council decisions on solar**
  - **Summary:** A speaker questioned the inconsistency of the council by saying 'how do you say yes to one and no to someone else?'
  - **Evidence:** “I understand, but it goes back, Madam Mayor, it goes back to us allowing some and now not others. And how do you say yes to one and no to someone else?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [34:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2087s)

- **Council's initial stance on solar energy**
  - **Summary:** The speaker attributed the initial allowance of solar projects to City Manager Crowe, who decided the council was 'a solar friendly city' at that time.
  - **Evidence:** “So this goes back to realistically the error of City Manager Crowe who decided at that time with the council that we were a solar friendly city and we were experimenting with solar and trying to you know a lot of communities were looking at the facts of what solar was and wasn't and so as with any new process you learn things over time what works and and what doesn't work.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [35:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2118s)

- **Community feedback on installed solar systems**
  - **Summary:** The speaker noted that community members have provided negative feedback regarding installed solar projects, citing maintenance issues and obtrusiveness at Park Hills Church.
  - **Evidence:** “And we've gotten feedback from community members more than like them. We've had more feedback that people don't like them. The biggest example is the one that's at Park Hills Church. There's, I don't wanna say there's been issues with it throughout, but maintenance has been a problem. Fencing has been a problem. It's obtrusive to the neighbors.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [35:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2159s)

- **Difference between residential and commercial zoning for solar arrays**
  - **Summary:** The speaker highlighted that the current application is for residential home zoning and questioned if filling a backyard with an array visible from the street would be acceptable.
  - **Evidence:** “And we're also talking the difference between residential zoning and commercial zoning. So this application here is for residential home zoning. So it'd be if your next door neighbor came to the council and said, I wanna fill my backyard full of an array and you can see it from your house while it's their property.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [36:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2179s)

- **Solar company preference for ground mount systems**
  - **Summary:** The speaker noted that solar companies are pushing ground mounts because they are cheaper to install than roof mounts, even though the latter hides better.
  - **Evidence:** “And Wayne's exactly right. In dealing with a lot of solar companies over the last year, many of the solar companies are pushing the ground mount because it's cheaper for them to install than the roof mount and it's less work for them long term, even though it hides it better from the community.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [36:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2208s)

- **Planning Commission recommendation on eliminating ground-mount zoning**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated that the Planning Commission unanimously recommended drafting an ordinance to eliminate ground-mount solar because they do not believe it fits the residential platform.
  - **Evidence:** “So while I do sit on the planning commission and I agree totally with their recommendation to get rid of this. This wasn't pushed by me. This was a completely unanimous vote by the Planning Commission and we directed council, which is Mr. Cox that sits on that committee to draft this ordinance.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [37:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2224s)

- **Size difference between roof-mounted and ground-mounted panels**
  - **Summary:** The speaker contrasted small (two by two) rooftop panels with large ground-mount arrays described as a 'mini RV of solar panels' in backyards.
  - **Evidence:** “We're not talking about panels that are two by two. We're talking about panels that are 10 by eight. It's a big difference. Yeah, it is. And so the panels they get primarily mounted on rooftops now are about a two by two square and bundles that they put on based on your usage. The ones that they put in the backyards are actually a trapeze of steel that they get put on and most of the panels are eight to 10 foot tall and probably four foot wide and the average house probably needs four to six of them to gain power.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [37:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2251s)

- **Harmony Church solar project details**
  - **Summary:** The speaker confirmed that Harmony Church requested a large ground-mount system, which was approved by council.
  - **Evidence:** “But that's not what Harmony asked for. That's not what. That is exactly what Harmony asked for. That large. Yes ma'am. And it was in the back. It was by their garage near the trees of their property but that is exactly what they asked for and that's what this council approved.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2289s)

- **Concerns about ground-mounted solar impact on residential areas**
  - **Summary:** The speaker expressed concern over the danger of large solar arrays in a residentially zoned area opening up to more residential development, calling them potential eyesores.
  - **Evidence:** “Yes cause what was the danger of it other than we might see it driving down, what's the road? Pearl city road. Yes. The danger of it in my opinion is exactly what we're talking about here. That church is in a residentially zoned area that opens up to more residentially zoned people adding this and so what the planning commission is recommending and I'm not speaking for everyone but I think based on the vote I can, we're recommending that this is not a path that Freeport should move forward, that it will not long-term benefit residential properties and it'll become an eyesore like an old car sitting in a yard over time.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2311s)

- **Recommendation regarding development at Pearl City Road**
  - **Summary:** The planning commission recommended that Freeport should not move forward with the proposed development because it will not long-term benefit residential properties and may become an eyesore.
  - **Evidence:** “I think based on the vote I can, we're recommending that this is not a path that Freeport should move forward, that it will not long-term benefit residential properties and it'll become an eyesore like an old car sitting in a yard over time.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2330s)

- **Public Works Operations Superintendent role details**
  - **Summary:** The new superintendent role would oversee both Public Works and Water Utility operations, consolidating responsibilities from two separate roles.
  - **Evidence:** “So recently the utility operation or the utility superintendent has moved on and we felt that this was a good opportunity to consolidate the the department's overall and that's why staff is asking for a new person to oversee the Public Works Department.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [41:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2508s)

- **Nature of Operations Superintendent position**
  - **Summary:** The role involves changing the job description of an individual rather than adding a completely new, additional position.
  - **Evidence:** “I just want to give a point of clarity to Rob's statement there so this is creating a job position that we currently don't have in the structure that's what it's doing it's not adding a role it's giving it's giving a new role to an old position that we currently don't have”
  - **Source timestamp:** [42:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2548s)

- **Funding and staffing for Operations Superintendent**
  - **Summary:** The position would be filled by an internal candidate, cover the duties of a resigned employee, and include hiring an assistant to cover weekends.
  - **Evidence:** “We believe we have a qualified internal candidate for this position. Would this position also be covering the position where the gentleman resigned from? That's correct... I mean, why did we need that position then if we don't need it now? Well, as I mentioned, it'll be the superintendent will oversee all of public works and will be asking for an assistant to also come alongside to cover weekends.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [45:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2746s)

- **Opening position status and staffing needs**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding whether a current open position is truly necessary or if duties can be absorbed by existing staff.
  - **Evidence:** “And so it's like in a roundabout way, I hear what you're saying and I hear what you're saying but it's like we're ignoring the fact that a person you put in position has left the department and so that is an opening position or you're telling me it's not going to be We are opening position because we're going to add those duties to someone else's duty. So if we could have done that from the beginning, why did we ever hire this gentleman? Because that's who you chose, that's who you wanted, and we hired him.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [44:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2688s)

- **Superintendent oversight of Public Works assistant role**
  - **Summary:** The superintendent will oversee all of public works and will be asking for an assistant to also come alongside to cover weekends, a role that was not clearly defined before.
  - **Evidence:** “Well, as I mentioned, it'll be the superintendent will oversee all of public works and will be asking for an assistant to also come alongside to cover weekends. And the superintendent did not do that before? Correct, they did, but it was not a clearly defined role. Droll. And the way it's being explained tonight is not clearly defined.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [45:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2751s)

- **Concerns regarding Airbnb rentals in single-family residential areas**
  - **Summary:** A speaker detailed concerns stemming from an incident where numerous people with loaded weapons were present at a rented Airbnb, which they felt was unsafe for a $200,000 to $300,000 neighborhood.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Klemm
  - **Evidence:** “The real crux of this comes from everybody here believes in Airbnb's, everybody believes that it can be a positive thing for the community, there's no doubt about that, but it mostly stems from an incident and where it was at basically. I believe it was June 6th at one of these Airbnbs that this person, first of all I'll We go back to the point where I was here when they originally discussed Airbnbs over a year ago and nobody really brought up the thought of what was going to happen in that area, what could happen in that area, what could develop in that area. Nobody in that area would know who's going to be in that house, when they're going to be in that house, when it's rented, when it isn't going to be rented and who's there.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3127s)

- **Economic impact and regulation of Airbnb businesses**
  - **Summary:** A speaker noted that Airbnbs are businesses that bring people and money into the city, suggesting regulations like long contracts with stipulations could be put in place.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Johnson
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Johnson. I'm not sure how many of these Airbnbs we have here in Freeport, but they are businesses. Three is all we have? We have three in Singleton. Okay. And they bring, I mean, they bring people in who spend money here. So that's, you know, part of the city. The other thing I'm thinking about, you know, you do take a chance when you're a person that owns an Airbnb of who you rent to, but I know any of the vacation rentals that we've ever rented, there's a very long contract that you have to fill out with them that has a lot of stipulations on it, what you can do and what you can't do, how many cars you can park there, and a lot of things that regulate that that I think could be put in place for those that do have Airbnbs.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [55:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3346s)

- **Proposed alternative regulation for Airbnb rentals**
  - **Summary:** A speaker suggested implementing a requirement for property owners to obtain a special use permit every year instead of banning the practice entirely, and also suggested limiting the total number of Airbnbs.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Johnson
  - **Evidence:** “Also I'm thinking could we do like they have to have a Huffines. We're going to have a special use permit every year or something like that instead of totally disregarding this altogether. Those are my thoughts.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3445s)

- **Concerns over inconsistent ordinance application**
  - **Summary:** A speaker expressed concern about the proposed ban being applied only to single-family houses while allowing it in areas that are mostly apartments, citing fairness issues.
  - **Evidence:** “All right. Hold on one second. I'm sorry, but that is laughable. So because it happened in this area and these houses are worth that much, we're going to ban it for single-family houses. But in the areas that happen to be mostly apartments, we're going to allow it because these houses are $250, $300,000 which was repeated a couple of times so it's not okay there but it's okay in other neighborhoods and to even feel safe making a statement as such is is wow.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3464s)

- **Short-term rental ordinance restrictions by housing type**
  - **Summary:** The proposed ban on short-term rentals for single-family houses is suggested due to property values in certain areas, while allowing it in areas mostly composed of apartments.
  - **Evidence:** “So because it happened in this area and these houses are worth that much, we're going to ban it for single-family houses. But in the areas that happen to be mostly apartments, we're going to allow it because these houses are $250, $300,000 which was repeated a couple of times so it's not okay there but it's okay in other neighborhoods and to even feel safe making a statement as such is is wow.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3471s)

- **License reapplication requirements for three properties**
  - **Summary:** The ordinance requires the three specified properties to reapply for their licenses; if they let them lapse, or if they continue to reapply, the license will sunset on January 1st, 2029.
  - **Evidence:** “Director, I have a question in this would that be in effect immediately or is there can you enlighten that there's M. So essentially the ordinance reads that this would, they would have to still, basically the current licenses for the three properties that we're speaking of, they would still have to reapply for the license. If they let it lapse on their own, they let it lapse on Johnson. If they continue to reapply, it would sunset January 1st, 2029 and after such date, all licenses would cease to be valid. So a little over three years.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3479s)

- **Support for tourism development via short-term rentals**
  - **Summary:** A speaker expressed support for allowing Airbnbs in the city of Freeport because they are trying to be a tourist town.
  - **Evidence:** “Sure. I would like to agree with Alderperson Johnson. We are trying to be a tourist town, we are trying to do things to draw people here. We only have two, I'm not sure if the other one is still open, legitimate hotels that you wouldn't mind staying in. So and myself, I have a couple of kids, so when we go, we use Airbnbs, I don't understand why you would want to stop that for the city of Freeport. I can't. It just doesn't. It just doesn't make sense.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [59:21](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3561s)

- **History and scope of short-term rental ordinance**
  - **Summary:** The current short-term vacation rental ordinance has been in existence for approximately five years, with the concept being newer than previous B&B models. The issue is noted as a hot topic causing conflict between tourism benefits and neighbor complaints.
  - **Evidence:** “Director Duckman, how long has this, do you know, if you know, that this ordinance has been in existence? Well, the current short-term vacation rental ordinance, I would say, has been what? Clerk Anderson, five years, right around COVID, I think. We had bed and breakfast on the books for a very long time, because that's an older model. But we added the Airbnb pre-COVID. I've been here eight years, somewhere between five and eight years. It's a newer concept, correct? So when we're talking short-term rentals, the idea generally is that short-term rentals, by the way, it is not just in the city of Freeport. It's a hot topic.”

- **Concerns regarding neighborhood guidelines for vacation rentals**
  - **Summary:** A speaker raised concerns about the lack of established policies or guidelines for neighborhoods affected by vacation rentals.
  - **Evidence:** “Oldham and Sanders? Yeah, just elaborating on the concerning of neighborhood areas that has got a concern about the vacationing property and the zoning and the licensing. And we have not set up any policies or anything like that, guidelines for the people who does have concerns about the area of vacationing rentals and things like that.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:01:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3695s)

- **Previous Planning Commission meetings regarding short-term rentals**
  - **Summary:** Two planning commission meetings were held concerning this ordinance: one on August 14th, attended by Clerk Anderson and Alderperson Klemm; the second was scheduled for September 11th.
  - **Evidence:** “Yes, we had two planning commission meetings that we talked about before. I took some notes on that. We had a meeting on August 14th. And as I stated before, Clerk Anderson and Alderperson Klemm were in attendance there.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:02:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3763s)

- **Protocol for short-term rentals in single-family homes**
  - **Summary:** The ordinance dictates that having an Airbnb in a single-family house is prohibited if the vote passes as written.
  - **Evidence:** “The easiest thing to explain to somebody is no. If I have a single family house, what is the protocol for having a vacation rental? That's easy. No. That's what you're voting for.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:04:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3857s)

- **Protocol for short-term rentals in duplexes**
  - **Summary:** If an individual owns a duplex, they would need to go to a hearing and request permission or have it voted on by council via a special use hearing.
  - **Evidence:** “Right now what you would be voting on is single family house, no, you cannot have an Airbnb. If you have a duplex, you would have to go to a hearing and ask for permission or ask, you'd have to have it voted on by council, which is that special use hearing.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:05:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3913s)

- **Airbnb ordinance implications for single-family homeowners**
  - **Summary:** A homeowner expressed concern that the proposed ordinance would prevent them from renting out their single-family home to friends visiting from out of town if they were snowbirds, as they did not get permission when purchasing the property.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Parker
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Parker? I wasn't going to say anything, but the way I understand this, I own a single family home and if I happen to be a snowbird and want to go to Florida for the winter and I have some friends that want to come in and rent my house, I can't do it under this ordinance. You know, it's my house, I didn't ask permission when I bought the thing.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:05:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3949s)

- **Airbnb regulation concerns and special use zoning alternatives**
  - **Summary:** A speaker discussed the growth of Airbnb, noted difficulties in locating these rentals, expressed concern that passing the ordinance would punish licensed owners, and suggested using a special use designation for neighborhood control.
  - **Evidence:** “I did wanna just share, if nobody else, if nobody else mirrored my thoughts. So I believe the Airbnb craze is really popular. I think it's growing nationwide... One of my concerns is if this passes, it will be very punitive to the people who have followed the rules... I think that special use is the tool to solve that because you ask our neighbors, You could leave a special use, R1, single family.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:06:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3995s)

- **Funding details for license plate reader cameras project**
  - **Summary:** The cost breakdown for two years includes $200,000 from appropriations, $100,000 for two years of license plate reader cameras, and $69,200 for two trailer cameras for two years, plus the $9,000 from the Organized Crime Retail Theft Grant.
  - **Evidence:** “the money that we're utilizing is $200,000 from appropriations, $69,000, that's for the license plate reader cameras, or I'm sorry, $100, $100,000 for two years for license plate reader cameras, $69,200 for two trailer cameras for two years. And then we're also using the $9,000 that we're getting from the Organized Crime Retail Theft Grant. So that's what it's gonna cost for two years.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:15:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4536s)

- **Legal requirements for camera access**
  - **Summary:** To search, a law enforcement reason is required, such as a crime occurring or a missing person case; a case number must also be provided.
  - **Evidence:** “So in order for us to even do a search, we have to have a reason, a law enforcement reason, So generally, you know, a crime's occurred or if there's a missing person or something like that. So we have to put a reason in.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:16:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4618s)

- **Camera technology comparison and selection rationale**
  - **Summary:** The proposed platform (Fock) is described as smoother, easier to use, and more modern than the previous system committed to in 2021 (Motorola or Vigilant), specifically noting that Fock has trailer cameras and other desired features.
  - **Evidence:** “Vigilant doesn't have the trailer cameras and the other two things that we're looking to get to. Fock is a smoother, easier to use, more modern platforms. It's something that wasn't available in 2021.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:17:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4670s)

- **Grant funding status clarification**
  - **Summary:** The retail theft grant is an annual grant that can be reapplied for every year; the appropriations money mentioned is from Senator Durbin's office and is for two years.
  - **Evidence:** “So did this grant just come out recently or it just came out recently you could apply for it So the yeah, the retail theft grant it's an annual grant. It's one that you can reapply for every year Okay, and that's for the $9,000 the appropriations. That's something totally different. You know, that's being appropriated to us through Senator Durbin's office.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:19:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4758s)

- **Contingency funding status**
  - **Summary:** The project will not proceed unless grant money is secured; if appropriations fail, the $9,000 from the Attorney General's Grant provides enough for about two to three cameras.
  - **Evidence:** “So just to clarify, this won't go forward unless we get the grant money and we'll use part the appropriations money for part of these things, but we won't get it all unless we get the grant money.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:21:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4861s)

- **Illinois Solar Energy Incentive Program Details**
  - **Summary:** The city utility accounts are appealing to the program due to large and consistent electricity use; there is no financial requirement except for a subscription fee charged from received credits.
  - **Evidence:** “Manager Boyer? ... The city utility accounts are appealing to the program due to the large and consistent use of electricity. Many Northwestern Illinois cities are joining this program, and there is a brochure if someone is interested to see it. But Mike did present at the last Committee of the Whole, so there were many questions as to that time. So there is no financial requirement except the provider will charge a subscription fee from the credit received.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:23:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5017s)

- **Community Solar Program Concerns**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Simmons expressed concern that a previous company failed to honor its contract when the city signed up for this program.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Simmons. So if I can Persuade any of you even since before my time on council I cannot think of one person that has said I'm glad that the city has done this program and I would like to remind you all that last time we set up we signed up for this the company was not able to honor their contract so please just keep those things in mind when making your decision.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:24:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5052s)

- **Community Solar Program Distinction from Past Contracts**
  - **Summary:** Manager Boyer clarified that the current program is different from past aggregation contracts and allows receiving credits for existing solar arrays built by others.
  - **Evidence:** “Manager Boyer? I'd like to make one minor Johnson. I have a minor comment related to this. The aggregation contract is what the city has done in the past. This is something new and this is completely different from the aggregation contract. This would allow the city to receive solar credits for the solar arrays that are already being built by other people.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:24:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5052s)

- **Future Solar Development Scope**
  - **Summary:** Mr. Mudge stated that subscriptions are for new fields being developed in 2026 and beyond, and placement depends on economic benefit to connect to the ComEd grid.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Johnson. From what I understood, the gentleman telling us, is that the subscriptions that we do are to give money to have more solar farms or plots put up. So if we get electricity, he said that's already used in all these other farms that are around. So this means they're going to be putting more solar farms around the city of Freeport, right? Well, we have Mr. Mudge here. Maybe he can be a little more specific. Mr. Mudge, would you wanna address that? Thank you for the question. Basically the state, the state and the governor wants to promote clean, clean power and the subscriptions when you subscribe on it's going to be for new new fields that are being developed right now or being developed in 2026 and they need subscribers.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:25:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5137s)

- **Solar energy connection incentives and location**
  - **Summary:** The placement of solar projects will be determined by economic benefit for connecting to the ComEd grid, likely in rural areas where connection fees are lower.
  - **Evidence:** “Where they will be built and where they'll be placed is where it's gonna be economically beneficial to connect into the ComEd grid. So, I don't know if that's answering your specific question, Linda, Ms. Johnson, but wherever these are going to be built will be in approved locations through the Illinois Shines program and doesn't necessarily mean there's gonna be a lot more here in Freeport or not. Probably nothing in their city but in most likely rural areas where the connection fees to comment are lower.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:26:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5188s)

- **Solar project suitability for land use**
  - **Summary:** A good solar project location is on old landfills, which are perfect uses for land that cannot be really used for anything else.
  - **Evidence:** “For example, a good solar project is like what's being built right here in the city of Freeport on the old landfill. That's a perfect use for land that cannot be really used for anything else.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:26:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5197s)

- **Solar fund contribution and council decision**
  - **Summary:** All members of the combat area pay into the solar fund, and it is up to the council whether or not they want to allocate this money back to City Freeport for public works accounts only.
  - **Evidence:** “Everyone, I mentioned last time, everyone in combat area pays into the solar fund. So it's up to the council here whether or not you want to get some of that money that's being paid and leaving City Freeport back in for public works, accounts only.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:28:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5300s)

- **Opt-out nature of previous utility agreements**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Simmons stated that last year when they did this, everyone was automatically changed unless they sent in a paper opting out.
  - **Evidence:** “As Alderman Simmons stated earlier, that last year when we did this, everybody was automatically changed. If you didn't want the change, you had to send in a paper apting out, and then they couldn't even fulfill and the need and so why are we back here again and being that we're back here again I hope this time if people choose to take it that they have a choice and not that they're automatically and others, and then they had to change back.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:30:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5437s)

- **Comparison of utility contract options**
  - **Summary:** Manager Boyer explained that last year the issue was a pass-through charge increase from Nordic Energy; now, with ComEd rates known (10.6 cents), passing this ordinance gives customers a choice back.
  - **Evidence:** “Last year Council did agree and we had a signed agreement with Nordic Energy. However, their cost, not to their fault, but it was a pass-through charge, increased the charges where they could not honor that contract... Now, I looked at the new ComEd rate tariffs that came out for September through May and the ComEd rate now is at 10.6 cents. The MC squared rate, whether you do a one year or two year contract, that's what it'll be. ... by passing this ordinance, you're giving the customers a choice back that was really taken away from them when we all agreed we didn't know what the new comment rate was back in April or May when we had to replace that original contract.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:32:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5547s)

- **Difference between one and two-year contract savings for customers**
  - **Summary:** The difference between the one or two-year contract results in a saving of $7 to $7.50 per customer.
  - **Evidence:** “So what difference does the difference between the one or the two-year contract make? If there's a penny difference, and we have 3,000 customers in Freeport, then the average customer uses about 700,730 kilowatt hours, ComEd customers. So that's saving each customer $7, $7.50 if they want it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:34:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5646s)

- **Ordinance impact on customer choice regarding energy rate**
  - **Summary:** Passing the ordinance gives customers a choice back that was taken away when the original contract was replaced in April or May.
  - **Evidence:** “So by passing this ordinance, you're giving the customers a choice back that was really taken away from them when we all agreed we didn't know what the new comment rate was back in April or May when we had to replace that original contract.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:34:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5680s)

- **Regulated rate for Nordic Energy**
  - **Summary:** The regulated rate passed on to Nordic Energy is set for the next two years.
  - **Evidence:** “It's out of your hands too. The regulated rate that was passed on to Nordic Energy has now set for the next two years.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:35:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5705s)

- **City savings from energy contract**
  - **Summary:** The city does not save any money at all under the current contract structure; it is strictly for residents.
  - **Evidence:** “No, on this contract, how much do we save as the city of Freeport? The city does not save any money at all? No. This is strictly for your residents?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:36:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5796s)

- **City water account contract details**
  - **Summary:** The current contract for city water accounts ends in December 2026 with a rate of 5.61 cents.
  - **Evidence:** “Our contract, decision contract right now ends December 2026 for the city water accounts, as I get the rate of 5.61 cents.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:37:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5821s)

- **Electric aggregation contract scope**
  - **Summary:** The electric aggregation contract is strictly for residential and small businesses; a separate contract exists for city accounts like Wastewater Treatment Plant.
  - **Evidence:** “If I'm understanding your question, it'll, electric aggregation, this particular contract is strictly for residential, city, residential and small, small businesses. We have a separate for the city accounts like our Wastewater Treatment Plant and etc.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:37:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5835s)

- **Opt-out process for residents**
  - **Summary:** People have two choices to opt out: receiving a letter from MC Squared or a ComEd switch letter; if they do nothing, they are automatically in the program.
  - **Evidence:** “People have two choices to opt out. Once they'll get a letter, under city letterhead, from MC Squared, if they were chosen, to say, here's what your rate will be starting in December, if you don't want to be part of this program, let us know. Secondly, a ComEd switch letter comes out, what was the state's the same thing, in case somebody misses it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:37:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5870s)

- **Potential city savings from energy contract**
  - **Summary:** If the $7 per month saving applied to 3,000 residents, it would be $21,000 a month staying in the city.
  - **Evidence:** “What's the value of this to the city of Freeport? If it's $7 a month times 3,000 residents that's $21,000 a month that stays in the city might not seem like a lot But every to me every dollar count.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:38:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5915s)

- **Opt-out requirement for program participation**
  - **Summary:** To opt out of the program, one must actively opt out; otherwise, they are automatically enrolled due to state statute.
  - **Evidence:** “If you ignore it, you will be you you will be switched and that's the state. That's the state statute It's like it's always been Alderman Parker. If you want out you have to opt out. Otherwise you're in”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:38:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5915s)

- **Challenges with previous energy program implementation**
  - **Summary:** The speaker recounted difficulties experienced when trying to implement a similar program previously.
  - **Evidence:** “The thing that I found out, and it's like you said, they had issues managing how they want to want to implement their program, but they fail. They initially failed their program because I was part of that program, and they had so much difficult. And they had so much difficulties with it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:39:21](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=5961s)

- **Alternative supplier option for residents**
  - **Summary:** Residents who already use suppliers other than ComEd should continue to use them.
  - **Evidence:** “If they have suppliers already in existence right now that they're using other than ComEd, that they should continue to use their supplier”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:41:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6106s)

- **Customer energy choices summary**
  - **Summary:** Customers have three choices: stay uncommitted, go back (to ComEd), or join the city program with P squared.
  - **Evidence:** “Customers do have three choices. Three now. There are three choices. One, stay uncommitted. Two, they could go back, or they could go under the city program of P squared and appreciate a better rate and save a few dollars on a round-trip bill.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:42:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6159s)

- **Customer choices regarding utility service**
  - **Summary:** Customers have three choices: stay uncommitted, go back to the city program (P squared) for a better rate, or choose their own supplier at their own risk.
  - **Evidence:** “Oldham and Johnson? Customers do have three choices. Three now. There are three choices. One, stay uncommitted. Two, they could go back, or they could go under the city program of P squared and appreciate a better rate and save a few dollars on a round-trip bill. Three, you can go out like you probably did and choose your own supplier at your own risk. So that's the three choices that all customers have.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:42:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6159s)

- **Foreman pay increase details**
  - **Summary:** The proposed MOU increases the appointed foreman's hourly pay by five dollars an hour, applicable only to hours of coverage physically worked and logged during the superintendent's time off.
  - **Evidence:** “The MOU will provide five $5 an hour increase in the appointed foreman hourly pay is approved only on an hours of coverage that are physically worked and logged in the absence of the superintendent during time off”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:47:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6427s)

- **Concerns about spending increases vs. contract negotiation**
  - **Summary:** A concern was raised regarding continuing with pay increases while waiting for a contract that has been in action for three or four months.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Stacy
  - **Evidence:** “I don't understand how we can continue to move forward with increases when we're still waiting on a contract that's been not in action for three or four months. Dasme Union continue to wait for a contract and we continue to wanna make increases everywhere but with them.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:48:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6483s)

- **Union Contract Negotiations Status**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding delays in a contract negotiation with the union, noting that increases are desired despite the pending contract.
  - **Evidence:** “I don't understand how we can continue to move forward with increases when we're still waiting on a contract that's been not in action for three or four months. Dasme Union continue to wait for a contract and we continue to wanna make increases everywhere but with them.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:48:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6483s)

- **Union Contract Status**
  - **Summary:** A participant questioned the duration of time a contract has been inactive.
  - **Evidence:** “What do you mean by three or four months? You tell me. No, I don't know what you meant by that.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:48:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6527s)

- **Union Contract Status**
  - **Summary:** A participant questioned when the union's contract ended.
  - **Evidence:** “When was their contract up? When did their contract end?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:48:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6535s)

- **Contract Negotiation Fairness**
  - **Summary:** Discussion emphasizing the need for fairness across the board regarding a contract with the union.
  - **Evidence:** “And you were not prepared to move forward with it, but you're prepared to move forward with increases where you want increases. Let's be fair across the board. They deserve a fair contract. Let's make it happen.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:49:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6548s)

- **Street Superintendent Wages and Union Agreement**
  - **Summary:** Discussion confirming that providing additional wages for a street superintendent to cover time off is acceptable to the unions moving forward.
  - **Evidence:** “This is providing additional wages to a street superintendent to cover in between time we've already discussed it with the union it is acceptable but to the it is acceptable to the unions moving forward.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:49:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6566s)

- **9-1-1 Staffing Hours**
  - **Summary:** A participant raised the topic of 9-1-1 personnel working 12 hour days, which was stated to be a different topic.
  - **Evidence:** “And what about our 9-1-1 people working 12 hour days? This has nothing to do with that. I know it has nothing to do with it because we don't want to discuss that.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:49:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6593s)

- **Airport Operator Business Hours Clarification**
  - **Summary:** A question was raised regarding whether the operator must be physically present during all stated business hours or if phone contact suffices.
  - **Evidence:** “I'm just looking on the contract and it says that the operator airport operators shall who keep regular posted business hours, eight to six, Monday through Friday, eight to five, Saturday, and Sunday, eight to noon. Now, does that mean that the operator will be there in person all of those hours, or can they just be reached by phone, or how do they cover all of those hours?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:51:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6688s)

- **Airport Operator Coverage Alternatives**
  - **Summary:** A question was asked about who would run the airport if the primary operator was at another job and what terms were negotiated.
  - **Evidence:** “Yes, who's going to run the airport when this person is at his other job? And what terms was this negotiated under? And is the contract for a year or 19 years?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:53:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6787s)

- **Airport Contract Renewal Terms**
  - **Summary:** The contract automatically renews each year unless either the operator or the city chooses to renegotiate it, which would trigger a new RFQ.
  - **Evidence:** “Remind me of the last question it is automatically renewed each year unless either the operator or the city is interested to open the contract and renegotiate it in which it will be a new request for quote be sent out in a similar fashion as this last one so it would be available for anyone to provide and I quote for him.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:54:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6844s)

- **Airport Operator Staffing Alternatives**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the existence of an alternate staffing plan, with disagreement on whether such an alternate has ever been established.
  - **Evidence:** “So what's an alternate? We've never had an alternate before. That's incorrect. We have someone, it is, if there is an employee of the operator that can carry the office hours.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:55:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6905s)

- **Airport Operator Qualifications and Hiring Process**
  - **Summary:** A speaker expressed concern that the current airport operator, who has worked there for 28 years, was not considered for a position despite their expertise.
  - **Attribution:** Miller
  - **Evidence:** “You know this is her life this is her livelihood for 28 years she have ran that airport and there is nobody in miles that can touch her they're not equipped they don't know what they're doing Doerr and because they haven't done it and shame on you to take and not even consider her for this position.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:55:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6919s)

- **Airport Operator Selection Process**
  - **Summary:** Manager Boyer stated that the current operator has been in place for five years, and the process was open, accepting three qualified statements or quotes, with the lowest quote being recommended to council.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “I will say that the current operator has been operating the airport for five years and this This was an open process that accepted three qualified statements or quotes. The quotes were opened with a panel who reviewed them all and the lowest quote was the one that was recommended for council to move forward with.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:56:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6965s)

- **Authorization of Resolution Regarding Contracts**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Sanders questioned who is drafting the resolution and who authorizes moving forward on an issue of this magnitude concerning contracts, suggesting it should not be the city manager creating such a hiring/firing resolution.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders
  - **Evidence:** “Yeah, this resolution that is being brought into our focus at this time, who is drafting this authorization of this resolution? And how do we even come to the decision of establishing whether or not we should move forward with this resolution in terms of who introduced this resolution? I mean, I mean, who gives the author, who gives the authorization to move on it on an issue of this caliber of this magnitude when it comes to contracts and things like that?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:56:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=6998s)

- **Council Authority over Contract Resolutions**
  - **Summary:** A speaker argued that if council has not intervened in the drafting, the resolution should be dismissed until proper protocol for managing contracts with management organizations is established.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders
  - **Evidence:** “And I feel that if council has not intervened in terms of the drafting of this resolution, I think this thing should be dismissed, thrown in the garbage until we come up with the right protocol on how we're going to conduct contracts with any management organization and system that we should be totally informed about it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:57:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7072s)

- **Council Authority over Contract Resolutions**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated that council has the last say regarding resolutions authorizing memoranda, suggesting no administrative heads or city manager can impose such matters.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders
  - **Evidence:** “I think council has the last say so when it comes to the resolution of Authorizing Any Memorandum, and I'm just saying that should be the procedure, unless you show me something else in writing that does not give the council the authorization to dismiss something that we have not even considered. Something that we have not even considered to authorize for a contract.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:58:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7115s)

- **Need for Council Review on Contracts**
  - **Summary:** A speaker advised that any acceptance of matters must be properly set right or have proper provisions allowing authorization, suggesting the matter should not be entertained at this time.
  - **Attribution:** Miller
  - **Evidence:** “Miller. We have to make sure that what we're accepting here is properly set right or we got the proper provisions to allow such an authorization to go through. I don't even think we should be even entertaining this matter at this time.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:59:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7178s)

- **Contract End Dates**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated that every contract has an end date.
  - **Evidence:** “Every contract has an end date.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:00:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7259s)

- **Council Vote Authority on Contract Recommendation**
  - **Summary:** Attorney Zito clarified that the council is presented with the contract to vote on and has the final say, even if it is a recommendation from the city manager.
  - **Attribution:** Attorney Zito
  - **Evidence:** “Just for clarification, this contract is being presented to you, the council, to vote on. You can vote yes or no on it. You guys have the final say on whether or not to approve who the city manager is recommending. It's just a recommendation. The council has the final say on it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:01:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7265s)

- **Contract Selection Basis**
  - **Summary:** A speaker noted that the memo states all three bidders were qualified, and the chosen one was based on the lowest amount.
  - **Attribution:** Attorney Zito
  - **Evidence:** “If you read the memo, it says that all three were qualified, the chosen one with lowest amount.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:01:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7296s)

- **Agenda item authorization protocol**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the authority to place items on the agenda.
  - **Evidence:** “Attorney Zito, you failed to mention the fact that the person that put this on this agenda was not authorized to do so. We failed to acknowledge that. Yeah, go ahead. The City Manager has the authority to place items on the agenda. Well, we didn't see that in the memo. There was no memo drafted on that matter. Because we have to go through the same protocol. That is an authority that the City Manager has to, I mean, all these other items are on the agenda that the City Manager put on the agenda.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:02:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7325s)

- **Council decorum**
  - **Summary:** A comment regarding maintaining professionalism during council proceedings.
  - **Evidence:** “Please withhold. Such inappropriate tonight. It boggles my mind. Let's try to remain professional.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:03:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7384s)

- **Televising program information and project conditions**
  - **Summary:** A speaker expressed inability to observe the condition of lines due to lack of knowledge regarding the televising program's extent but requested updates on line conditions for ongoing projects.
  - **Evidence:** “So I think we can do an installation that we can make sure that this is the appropriate thing to be doing for this particular area. I don't know how extensive our televising program is, and so I couldn't, I really can't make an observation to determine what it is that is going on in that field, but I suspect you guys would keep us informed about the conditions of these lines and why we are investing into these projects.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:06:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7568s)

- **Awarding contracts to a dissolved business entity**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Simmons raised concerns regarding the awarding of bids and contracts to a business entity that was involuntarily dissolved by the Illinois Secretary of State in June 2025.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 18, would you please Please read this discussion. Discussion regarding awarding contracts to a dissolved business entity. Alderman Simmons. I'll try to get through this as quickly as possible. Pursuant to my responsibilities as a duty, duly elected all the person I am formally requesting that the following might be placed on the agenda, which was just read by City Clerk Anderson, considering consideration and discussion regarding the city procurement practices in In relation to the awarding of contracts to a business entity that was involuntarily dissolved by the Illinois Secretary of State in June 2025, it has come to my attention that a business whose corporate status was involuntarily dissolved under 805 ILCS 512.40 of the Illinois Business Corporation Act continues to be awarded bids and contracts for city projects as dissolution terminates the legal standing of the corporation except for limited purposes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:07:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7635s)

- **Dissolution status of Albert and Son Earthworks LLC**
  - **Summary:** The speaker noted that Albert and Son Earthworks LLC was already in an involuntary dissolved situation as of June 13th, 2025, despite being awarded bids on the August 18th meeting.
  - **Evidence:** “And that's what has happened here with Albert and Son Earthworks LLC. And if you go back in August, the 18th meeting, Davis, the 18th meeting, they were awarded these demos. However, I believe it was June the 13th, 2025, they were already in an involuntary dissolved situation.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:10:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7805s)

- **Concerns over awarding contracts to non-good standing entities**
  - **Summary:** A speaker questioned how jobs totaling almost a quarter million dollars could be given to a company not registered in good standing.
  - **Evidence:** “Huffines, James, Jim, Jodi. However, we just gave them jobs totally almost a quarter million, and they're not even registered in good standing. How does that happen? You know, we send out for these bids, and we're supposed to trust what you're bringing us. And time and time again, we're finding that we can't trust what you're bringing us. This should not be, this should not be coming to us if you're not in good standing.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:11:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7886s)

- **Staff review of bidder qualifications**
  - **Summary:** A speaker questioned who was responsible for vetting bidders and why the state status of the bidding company was unknown.
  - **Evidence:** “You knew back in March that your license were suspended, April, May, June, July, August is when you were granted these. And whoever chose this, I know it was the lower bid, but who's looking at the people that's bidding for these jobs? And why didn't you know that they were not adequately a business with the state?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:12:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7928s)

- **Director Duckman addressing concerns about false information**
  - **Summary:** A speaker confronted someone regarding repeated instances of providing untrue information.
  - **Evidence:** “All of that is false. Go ahead, Director. No. See, this is what I talk about. You're telling me, don't be disrespectful to you, but you, this is the third time. And you are putting out information that is not true. This is the third time you have. You are putting out information that is not true.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:12:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=7964s)

- **Wayne Duckman addressing contract filing status**
  - **Summary:** Wayne Duckman explained that state law requires annual filing for corporations, and Albert and Son Earthworks LLC had filed their paperwork late, which caused the involuntary dissolved status.
  - **Evidence:** “Go ahead, Wayne. I was just going to say let's start back with what we're talking about here and I'll start with a simply with a simple explanation as I can. And then I'll get I'll get into more of the details of the contract etc. What what we're talking about here is when you have a company corporation the state of Illinois requires you to file the fee I do it every year I have a company and I believe it's right around $72 for corporation you file some paperwork it's usually about a page and every year you're required to file as a corporation in the state of Illinois, that's a rule. So what we're talking about here is that Albert and Son, it has to do with when they filed their paperwork. I have been in contact with Albert and Son on this matter. They have filed their paperwork. I've seen the receipts. I have them. I mean, I have no reason to be dishonest about that. They have filed their paperwork. My understanding is they filed their paperwork late, which is probably why it's showing up as an involuntary dissolved organization.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:13:21](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8001s)

- **City protection from contractor inaction**
  - **Summary:** A speaker advised on how the city can protect itself by requiring contractors to follow all state and federal laws in contracts.
  - **Evidence:** “Now, going back to how does the city of Freeport protect itself from this type of inaction, whether it be with malice or not, whether they intended to, how do we protect ourselves? There is a clause in our contract that says, we require all contractors to follow all state and federal laws. When they bid on the project, they We know it's not just City of Freeport ordinances, it's state and federal laws.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:15:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8106s)

- **Contract compliance and termination options for Albert and Son**
  - **Summary:** Staff has the right to bring contract issues back to council to consider terminating a contract if an issue is discovered.
  - **Evidence:** “Is when staff becomes aware of an issue, they have the right to bring it back to council to terminate the contract.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:15:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8155s)

- **Council's options regarding contractor compliance**
  - **Summary:** The council has three options: determine there was an issue and it was fixed; decide the remedy is not good enough for them, leading to termination; or move forward if they believe the situation is remedied.
  - **Evidence:** “And now the next step would be council can either say there was an issue, they fixed it, or council can say you know what, that's not good enough for us, we're We're going to move to terminate the contract.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:15:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8155s)

- **Contract revocation discussion**
  - **Summary:** If filing paperwork is egregious enough to warrant contract revocation, counsel should be consulted.
  - **Evidence:** “if you think that filing this paperwork is egregious enough to where they need to have these contracts revoked, I think you talk to counsel and see if that's something you want to talk about.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:16:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8184s)

- **Illinois State Standing Requirement for Contractors**
  - **Summary:** A business entity cannot be awarded or considered for any contract if it is not in good standing with the state of Illinois.
  - **Evidence:** “if the company or corporation was not in good standing with the state of Illinois, you cannot award or consider awarding any business entity, now let me finish, any business or entity with any acknowledgement of a potential contract,”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:17:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8246s)

- **Impact of non-compliant contractor on bidding process**
  - **Summary:** If one bidder falls off due to non-compliance, other corporations move up to fill the slot; however, the contract remains in play until compliance is confirmed.
  - **Evidence:** “If there's others in line and one falls off that didn't come into compliance, then the others move up. Other corporations move into that slot.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:18:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8287s)

- **Requirement for council reevaluation before contract award**
  - **Summary:** The council should not issue awards or contracts until the timing and dates of compliance are fully understood; this discussion should have happened before any mistakes were corrected.
  - **Evidence:** “So until we understand the timing and the dates of those contracts or the awarding, then there shouldn't be any awards out if there was only one person receiving the award or one company receiving the award. There shouldn't be any.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:19:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8373s)

- **Procedural requirement for council action on contract status**
  - **Summary:** The council must vote and make a motion to revoke the contract and move to the next person, as this should not have happened.
  - **Evidence:** “I'm saying you need to make a vote now and make a motion to say I motion that the council revoke the contract and move to the next person because the contract has been awarded and then you have to make that motion.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:20:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8424s)

- **Council vote on contract revocation**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated the need to make a motion to revoke a contract and move to the next person because the contract had been awarded.
  - **Evidence:** “What I'm saying is you need to make a vote now and make a motion to say I motion that the council revoke the contract and move to the next person because the contract has been awarded and then you have to make that motion. That shouldn't have happened.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:20:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8424s)

- **Council meeting voting restrictions**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated that no votes could happen on this night, only discussion.
  - **Evidence:** “You can't vote on anything. You can't vote tonight. Tonight's a discussion only.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:20:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8447s)

- **Contract compliance status**
  - **Summary:** A speaker asserted that the contractors are currently in compliance and provided receipts as evidence.
  - **Evidence:** “I understand, and I apologize for my speaking, but my point, what I'm trying to say here is they are currently in compliance. I have the receipts of them being in compliance.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:20:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8459s)

- **Contract requirements regarding law adherence**
  - **Summary:** A speaker noted that contract awards require a person entering into the contract to follow federal, state, and all laws.
  - **Evidence:** “Our contract awards say that we require a person entering into the contract to follow federal, state, all laws, and when we know, as staff, that a law has been broken, that Huffines. They're not in compliance with the law, and we know about it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:21:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8473s)

- **Remedy for non-compliance**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated that if a remedy was made and paperwork filed, they have receipts showing compliance.
  - **Evidence:** “So if there's something, but we also know that a remedy was made. They filed their paperwork. I have the receipts. They're now in compliance.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:21:29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8489s)

- **Scope of contract discussion**
  - **Summary:** A speaker clarified that the discussion is not about awarding a bid.
  - **Evidence:** “This is not about an awarding and a bid, Alderman.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:21:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8494s)

- **State website resolution date**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Simmons inquired about when a state website issue, noted as of June 2025, was resolved.
  - **Evidence:** “So because as of June 2025 that on the state website that had not been resolved so I would like to know when”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:21:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8500s)

- **Impact of non-compliance on future grants**
  - **Summary:** A speaker questioned if using grant funding while technically non-compliant could affect future grant eligibility.
  - **Evidence:** “would knowing that they were or if not knowingly they were not compliant will that affect our future grants or put us from being able to get grants because we aren't doing what we're supposed to do.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:21:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8500s)

- **Grant compliance remediation process**
  - **Summary:** A speaker advised that grant managers generally do not penalize for finding an issue and working to remedy it.
  - **Evidence:** “Anytime a grant manager is when you're working in a grant, they will always have comments, questions. We need you to file a certain way. We notice that you're missing this compliance here. Anytime that you find an issue and you work to remedy the issue, they're not going to penalize you for that.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:22:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8535s)

- **Legal counsel consultation on non-compliance**
  - **Summary:** A speaker asked about investigating options with legal counsel regarding missed compliance dates.
  - **Evidence:** “If there's a remedy that wants to be investigated or discussed with our legal counsel, what remedies and options we have, I maybe ask that question.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:22:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8559s)

- **Date of awareness of non-compliance**
  - **Summary:** A speaker estimated becoming aware of the non-compliance late last week.
  - **Evidence:** “My second question was the date. I became aware of this probably early part of late last week.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:23:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8604s)

- **Attorney input on grant auditing risks**
  - **Summary:** A speaker asked Attorney Zito for comments regarding potential issues during audits when using grant funding while technically non-compliant.
  - **Evidence:** “Without using my second time, Attorney Zito, do you have anything to say to that? Because I know in most cases when you use grant funding, you are audited and they come and they look at those things with a fine-tooth comb.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:23:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8636s)

- **Grant administrator opinion on compliance issue**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated that the question of whether non-compliance at award time creates a problem is for grant administrators to determine.
  - **Evidence:** “I suppose that is a question ultimately for the grant administrators to say hey do you guys think this would cause a problem that at the time of the award they technically were not in good standing with the Secretary of State's office. They have now remedied it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:24:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8652s)

- **Bid bond issuance confirmation**
  - **Summary:** A speaker confirmed that a bid bond was issued, which was in the form of a check.
  - **Evidence:** “Was a bid bond issued on this, Jim? Yes, there's a bid bond in this. It's actually a check.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:24:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8652s)

- **Abusive behavior towards Public Works staff**
  - **Summary:** The department will no longer tolerate abusive behavior toward public works staff or phone operators and will politely end calls that are not professional.
  - **Attribution:** Public Works Department
  - **Evidence:** “And I'm making it a point of clarification that we're not going to tolerate it at the public works department. We will pull up lightly and all calls that are made that are abusive. Our staff does not get paid to be abused... moving forward, we will politely end all calls that are not done in a professional manner with our department.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:26:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=8779s)

- **Animal Control Officer Safety Concerns**
  - **Summary:** The city must stand up for its employees, specifically the animal control officer, who has been targeted by threats and hateful posts on social media while performing their duties.
  - **Attribution:** City Manager
  - **Evidence:** “In addition, for the better part of this summer, our new and excellent animal control officer has been under attack by groups on social media that have gone even as far as making threats to the officer, those involved in their daily tasks. I find it necessary to stand up for all employees of the city and specifically our animal control officer who is doing an outstanding job...”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:30:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9031s)

- **ComEd's control over power outage response lists**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated that ComEd acts as the delivery company for all power and controls the list for outages.
  - **Attribution:** Public Commenter
  - **Evidence:** “Sir? Just for the record, ComEd is sort of a delivery company for all the power. They control the list and everything, that doesn't go away. So if the power goes out, ComEd will send a message or whatever to say they're calling to no matter who it's by.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:36:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9384s)

## Public Comment

- **Short-term rental ordinance changes**
  - **Summary:** The speaker noted they and their owner were not notified of possible changes to the short-term rental ordinance. They argued that vacation rentals serve important purposes like housing employees, testing neighborhoods, and assisting displaced individuals, and suggested capping the number of rentals instead of rezoning.
  - **Evidence:** “Ashley Howman? Ashley Howman, I'm here tonight to speak on item number nine. I'm here tonight on behalf of one of my owners and myself. I would first like to note that neither myself nor my owner was notified of a possible change to an ordinance in regarding the short-term rental and noting that I am the registered agent for the rental registry. Please note that you would have had to go to the Planning Commission agenda to know that there was a public hearing to discuss the changes being presented to you this evening. With that said, when it comes to short-term rentals, often called vacation rentals, everyone seems to become a real estate expert, quick to say that they destabilize neighborhoods or create problems. In reality, vacation rentals also serve important purposes. Corporations need them to use to just house their employees. Families use them to test neighborhoods before buying. Individuals who are displaced from their home Due to certain circumstances, traveling employment, such as the traveling nurses that work for FHN. These homes are typically well-maintained because owners depend on good reviews and constant bookings. I am in the real estate business and I have firsthand acknowledged of vacation rentals, complimenting housing markets rather than harming them. I personally own several and have stayed at numerous short-term rentals. They provide flexibility for property owners, support local tourism and offer families and employees more housing choices throughout a city. Many of the issues often raised with these rentals, noise, property maintenance, nuisance activities are already addressed by city ordinance. The city has tools to address problems with these properties without stripping the rights of responsible owners. Instead of the current proposed changes and rezoning to only allow in certain districts and removing those rights, the city could cap the number of vacation rentals for short-term rentals no matter the zoning. The village of Cherry Valley with only 2,300 people has a short-term rental ordinance with no zoning restrictions with many successes. Many of these areas have asked for support and guidance in the ordinance. Freeport has some opportunity to balance regulation that works for everyone. To strengthen the ordinance further, the city could add guardrails, tie guest limits to the bedroom counter square footage, require a local property manager if the owner is not nearby.”

- **Airport Manager Agreement (Item 16)**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated they were interested in the airport manager position and noted that an RFP was not initially available. They received an RFQ on August 13th with a September 1st deadline, which required creating an LLC and getting bonds, suggesting prior knowledge was necessary to respond. The speaker also alleged that arrangements were underway to fill the position with a friend of the city, and warned that the draft contract presented is not like the final contract Mr. Boyer will sign, noting it is a one-year contract with 19 automatic renewals running for 20 years.
  - **Evidence:** “Johnson, John Staben, 1070 North Canyon Drive. I'm here to speak on item 16, the airport manager agreement. Thank you for this time. I was the fifth person interested in the airport manager position. I have fought for Alberta's airport for years. When I found out Ms. Jensen was going to be removed, I thought I might be able to help. I looked for a notice that an RFP for the airport position was available. I found none. On April 30th, I went to the City Hall and requested the RFP request for a proposal. I received the RFQ request for quotation on August 13th and was required to respond by September 1st, 18 days, to create an LLC, get the bonds and other requirements. Only possible if you had prior knowledge this was happening. I responded to Mr. Boyer declaring that the RFQ was not biddable, which you all know last Johnson. Last year in this chamber, it became known that arrangements were underway to fill this position with a friend of the city. They just needed to wait until Mrs. Johnson's contract expired. The draft contract to tonight's agenda was presented as presented on the web, is nothing like the contract Mr. Boyer will sign. Please read the final contract before you approve this. East, remember, this is a one year contract with 19 automatic renewals. This runs 20 years. I must compliment Mr. Boyer, this hurts. He has bragged for a year privately he was going to throw Angie Johnson off the airport. He has done just that. It wasn't pretty, it wasn't moral, and it certainly wasn't legal. In the next two years, the cost of operations at Albertus Airport will go up considerably due to lost hangar rent. I think the taxpayers should know this.”

- **Solar Savings Program (Item 13)**
  - **Summary:** The speaker questioned whether taxpayers are paying for all solar panels and who is receiving the incentives.
  - **Evidence:** “My name is Cheryl Altman. I'm going to start with number 13 first for the solar savings program. I'd like to know, are the taxpayers the one that are paying for all these solar panels going up? And also, who's getting all the incentives from all these solar's going up?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [06:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=383s)

- **Rental Space Cost (Item 5)**
  - **Summary:** The speaker questioned the fairness of renting a space to Pete Elber for $2,000, calculating this as $166.66 a month, and asked where else in town one could rent a space for that price unless they were friends and family with the mayor.
  - **Evidence:** “My next one is number five. They're renting to Pete Elber for $2,000. That's $166.66 a month. You tell me where anybody in this town can go rent a space for $166.66 a month. Only if you're friends and family with the mayor.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [06:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=404s)

- **Allegations regarding building demolition and EPA violations**
  - **Summary:** The speaker alleged that Wayne knew Albers did not have the right states filed out with states, allowing buildings to be torn down, and that Darren or Rob should have been present as EPA regulations were allegedly violated.
  - **Attribution:** Cheryl Alton
  - **Evidence:** “My name is Cheryl Alton and so Wayne you admitted that you knew Albers didn't have the right states filed out with states but that you allowed them to tear down buildings and also you Darren or Rob should have been out there they did not follow EPA regulations at all I've got pictures of it with dust flying everywhere.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:32:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9142s)

- **Allegations regarding building tear-down and EPA regulations**
  - **Summary:** The speaker accused Wayne of allowing buildings to be torn down without proper state filings, alleging failure to follow EPA regulations at a property belonging to the speaker.
  - **Attribution:** Cheryl Alton
  - **Evidence:** “My name is Cheryl Alton and so Wayne you admitted that you knew Albers didn't have the right states filed out with states but that you allowed them to tear down buildings and also you Darren or Rob should have been out there they did not follow EPA regulations at all I've got pictures of it with dust flying everywhere. No fences surrounding stuff. And that's on my property.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:32:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9142s)

- **Allegations regarding property removal and official misconduct**
  - **Summary:** The speaker accused Wayne of tearing down the speaker's house, taking a driveway, back lot, and steps, and accused Rob of failing to provide paperwork for three weeks.
  - **Attribution:** Cheryl Alton
  - **Evidence:** “Also, you tore down my house Wayne. You think you got a big win. Now that I found out tonight, you don't. Also, you took my driveway, my back lot, and my steps. Why? That driveway was not part of the Miller. And Rob, I've been on you for three weeks to get me the paperwork of all this.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:33:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9183s)

- **Concerns about Mayor Miller's reaction to discussions about elders**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated that Mayor Miller dislikes when people discuss elders, suggesting it irritates him because they get things wrong.
  - **Attribution:** Cheryl Alton
  - **Evidence:** “And Mayor Miller, you don't like it when people come up here and talk about elders. It irritates you. It irritates you because, you know, they get things wrong.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:33:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9213s)

- **Concerns regarding city bidding practices**
  - **Summary:** The speaker expressed concern that the process always favors the lowest bid, even if other bidders have necessary qualifications or local knowledge.
  - **Evidence:** “I notice that we go for the lowest bid. I know you look to save the buck because that's what everybody and so on. That's what everybody does. They always go for the lowest bid.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:34:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9250s)

- **Request for guaranteed power restoration for medical equipment users**
  - **Summary:** The speaker requested confirmation that ComEd or MC Squared maintain a list to immediately address power outages affecting individuals on oxygen, ventilators, or other home medical equipment.
  - **Attribution:** Public Commenter
  - **Evidence:** “Also, for the people that are on oxygen when we're talking about this, ComEd or MC Squared, if they're on oxygen with ComEd or if they're on a ventilator Bader, or if they're on any kind of home oxygen equipment or home medical equipment and the power goes out, you are on a list that immediately your area is worked on right away because some of these people, they cannot go.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:34:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9291s)

- **Apology and commitment to doing right**
  - **Summary:** A council member apologized for personal shortcomings, stating that 'right is right and wrong is wrong.'
  - **Attribution:** Council Member
  - **Evidence:** “Councilmen and women and you my constituents. I take my position seriously and yeah sometimes I too fall short and get upset because right is right and wrong is wrong. So I stand before you tonight apologizing for my shortcomings. I'm only human.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:37:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9431s)

## Proclamations and Recognitions

- **National Sea Treks Train Week Proclamation**
  - **Summary:** Proclamation for National Sea Treks train week, September 15th through the 21st.
  - **Evidence:** “The proclamation for National Sea Treks thinks train week, September 15th through the 21st.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [07:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=470s)

## Follow-ups

- **License reapplication requirement for existing Airbnb properties**
  - **Summary:** A question was raised regarding whether the ordinance would require the three current licensed properties to reapply for their licenses.
  - **Evidence:** “Director, I have a question in this would that be in effect immediately or is there can you enlighten that there's M. So essentially the ordinance reads that this would, they would have to still, basically the current licenses for the three properties that we're speaking of, they would still have to reapply for the license.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=3479s)

- **Requirement for bidders to be in good standing**
  - **Summary:** The speaker suggested adding an ordinance or process requirement ensuring that all bidders are in right standing.
  - **Attribution:** Council Member
  - **Evidence:** “For future reference, Director Duckman, I just think it's only right that everybody be in good standing. That bids on jobs and maybe that's something that can be added to the ordinance or to the process or to the whatever that they have to show that they are in right standing.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:38:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=9488s)

## Attendance

- **Roll Call Vote Tally**
  - **Summary:** The roll call confirmed 7 votes in favor and 0 against.
  - **Evidence:** “Sanders. Aye. Klemm. Aye. Johnson. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye. Stacy. Aye. And Shadle. 7, 7-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:21:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=4893s)

- **Council Member Attendance Confirmation**
  - **Summary:** Confirmation of attendance from several council members.
  - **Evidence:** “Sanders. No. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [39:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vg8DrdOcw8&t=2375s)