WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:23.000 Good evening. Linda, could you please give the invocation this evening? 00:00:23.000 --> 00:00:28.000 Let us bow our heads. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord on my soul. 00:00:28.000 --> 00:00:48.359 Tudor, James B. Sherwood,chemical, 00:00:48.359 --> 00:00:50.359 and 00:00:52.359 --> 00:00:54.359 Mr. 00:00:55.359 --> 00:00:57.359 John, Mr. 00:00:58.359 --> 00:01:00.359 John, Mr. 00:01:01.359 --> 00:01:03.359 John, Mr. 00:01:04.359 --> 00:01:06.359 Mr. 00:01:07.359 --> 00:01:09.359 Mr. 00:01:10.359 --> 00:01:12.359 Mr. 00:01:13.359 --> 00:01:15.359 Mr. 00:01:15.359 --> 00:01:19.859 and Hope and trusting that you alone can hold us together in your love and peace. 00:01:19.859 --> 00:01:24.859 Help us trust you more and lean not on our own understanding. Remove all fears, 00:01:24.859 --> 00:01:30.000 cancel all animosity, and bring your peace as we lean on your everlasting arms 00:01:30.000 --> 00:01:34.960 to accomplish your purposes for this city and all who dwell here. In Jesus' name, 00:01:34.960 --> 00:01:38.879 Amen. Thank you, Linda. Now we'll officially call this meeting to order. 00:01:38.879 --> 00:01:42.840 Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? Mayor Miller? Here. Alderpersons, 00:01:42.840 --> 00:01:55.280 Klemm, Monroe, Simmons is absent, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, and Sellers. 00:02:12.840 --> 00:02:22.680 item number one is the approval of the agenda however we will be removing item 00:02:22.680 --> 00:02:30.080 number 10 and moving it to the cow is there a motion for the agenda so move 00:02:30.080 --> 00:02:36.199 second in motion made by Alderman Shadle seconded by Alderman Sellers all those 00:02:36.199 --> 00:02:42.240 in favor signify by saying aye aye opposed that motion passes could you 00:02:42.240 --> 00:02:53.240 Please note that at 6.02 Alderman Simmons joined the meeting. Item number two is the approval from the minutes from the regular meeting on December 16th, 2024. Is there such a motion? 00:02:53.240 --> 00:02:55.240 So moved. 00:02:55.240 --> 00:03:01.240 Second. 00:03:01.240 --> 00:03:06.240 Motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Klemm. All those in favor signify by saying aye. 00:03:06.240 --> 00:03:07.240 Aye. 00:03:07.240 --> 00:03:11.240 Opposed? That motion passes. Public comment. 00:03:11.240 --> 00:03:18.240 We have two that are on agenda topics for this evening. Rhonda Scott, if you would like to have three minutes. 00:03:30.240 --> 00:03:38.240 Hello, I'm Rhonda Scott. I'd like to comment, really ask some questions before you consider Resolution Number 13, 00:03:38.240 --> 00:03:45.640 which has something to do with police health employment or employment health 00:03:45.640 --> 00:03:52.159 plan I read the notes on this and it was something about some contract had been 00:03:52.159 --> 00:03:57.920 negotiated and it wasn't clear there what happened is when I read the memo I had a 00:03:57.920 --> 00:04:02.480 whole lot of questions like first of all what do you mean police officers are 00:04:02.480 --> 00:04:05.800 getting a pension and we're paying for their health insurance like shouldn't 00:04:05.800 --> 00:04:07.620 and 00:04:07.620 --> 00:04:14.620 when I looked up Rockford and Chicago, the officers there, if they retire under the age 00:04:18.040 --> 00:04:25.040 of 55, the City contributes nothing. They are allowed to participate in the City's health 00:04:25.439 --> 00:04:32.139 care plan, but the officers have to pay out of their own pockets. Then once they are 55, 00:04:32.139 --> 00:04:39.139 they have the option of staying in the city plan and in Rockford the city contributes 00:04:39.139 --> 00:04:45.379 50 percent, the officer contributes the rest out of their pocket and in the city of Chicago 00:04:45.379 --> 00:04:51.219 the officers are required to contribute 3.5 percent of their annuity. 00:04:51.219 --> 00:04:56.259 I'm not sure what that amount is, I'm just passing this information on to you just because 00:04:56.259 --> 00:05:00.719 The memo, it's asking you to approve a resolution, 00:05:00.719 --> 00:05:03.959 which you probably have no idea what it means. 00:05:03.959 --> 00:05:07.579 And so I would like for you to ask some questions 00:05:07.579 --> 00:05:10.199 and find out exactly what are we paying 00:05:10.199 --> 00:05:13.039 for retired officers' health insurance? 00:05:13.039 --> 00:05:14.120 Is this a standard? 00:05:14.120 --> 00:05:16.180 I know most people, the industry standard is, 00:05:16.180 --> 00:05:19.039 when you retire after working at a company for 30 years, 00:05:19.039 --> 00:05:21.000 you go out and get your own insurance. 00:05:21.000 --> 00:05:23.360 And you go out and you pay for it with your 401K. 00:05:23.360 --> 00:05:26.360 you know the company is paying for it. 00:05:26.360 --> 00:05:29.800 So I hate to be negative but it just seems like 00:05:30.840 --> 00:05:32.620 we should run a city like a business. 00:05:32.620 --> 00:05:34.000 We have a business manager. 00:05:34.000 --> 00:05:35.680 We should be running it like a business. 00:05:35.680 --> 00:05:37.040 We should be aware of cost 00:05:37.040 --> 00:05:39.120 and I would ask for you respectfully 00:05:39.120 --> 00:05:41.400 to look at the cost of what we're paying 00:05:41.400 --> 00:05:43.160 and ask some questions please. 00:05:43.160 --> 00:05:44.000 Thank you. 00:05:45.560 --> 00:05:46.879 Next is Akia Sanders. 00:05:53.360 --> 00:06:00.860 How you doing? My name is Akiyah Sanders. I wanted to speak on item number five, reappointing Steve Cox. I don't believe he should be a reappointment. 00:06:00.860 --> 00:06:08.860 From November 19th, he actually assisted Wayne Duckman in illegally knocking down one of my residents. 00:06:08.860 --> 00:06:15.860 From what I understand, not to be even approved by council to get knocked down, and I just don't think he should be reappointed at this time. 00:06:15.860 --> 00:06:26.860 and others. Okay, now we can move on to item number four, which is the consent agenda. 00:06:26.860 --> 00:06:30.580 The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion unless a 00:06:30.580 --> 00:06:36.699 member of the council would like to have something removed for further discussion. Seeing nothing, 00:06:36.699 --> 00:06:42.660 and we will approve to receive and place on file the minutes from the boards and commission 00:06:42.660 --> 00:07:12.660 from the Foreign Fire Insurance Board, dated October 10th, 2024, the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners from October 25th and 26th, 2024, Greater Freeport Partnerships Monthly Report, dated December 18th, 2024, the National Day of Racial Healing Proclamation, approval of finance bills payable in the total of $4,436,436.46, the approval of payroll for pay period ending December 14th, 2024, 00:07:12.660 --> 00:07:17.660 in the total of $657,123.22 as well as payroll 00:07:18.480 --> 00:07:23.480 for December 28th, 2024 in the total of $668,168.88. 00:07:26.340 --> 00:07:29.220 Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda? 00:07:29.220 --> 00:07:30.060 So moved. 00:07:30.060 --> 00:07:30.879 Second. 00:07:30.879 --> 00:07:31.720 Second. 00:07:31.720 --> 00:07:35.820 We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, 00:07:35.820 --> 00:07:38.860 seconded by Alderman Klemm. 00:07:40.240 --> 00:07:42.060 Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? 00:07:42.060 --> 00:07:59.939 Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. And Sanders? Aye. The motion is approved 8-0. Thank you. Item number five is appointments. Could you please read those? 00:07:59.939 --> 00:08:09.240 Reappointment of Patrick McDermott to the Board of the Northwest Illinois Enterprise Zone for a three-year term effective through December 31st, 2027. 00:08:09.240 --> 00:08:17.339 And the reappointment of Steve Cox to the Board of the Northwest Illinois Enterprise Zone for a three-year term effective through December 31, 2027. 00:08:17.339 --> 00:08:21.839 Thank you. Is there a motion to reappoint these? Yes, so moved. 00:08:21.839 --> 00:08:25.540 I would like to make a motion that we divide these up. 00:08:25.540 --> 00:08:31.700 Sure. Okay, so we'll start with the first one, Patrick McDermott. Is there a motion to approve? 00:08:31.700 --> 00:08:32.500 So moved. 00:08:32.500 --> 00:08:33.000 Second. 00:08:34.019 --> 00:08:40.659 Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion? 00:08:42.340 --> 00:08:42.980 Yes. 00:08:42.980 --> 00:08:49.460 Thank you, Madam Mayor. This question goes to the Community Development. Do we know if 00:08:49.460 --> 00:08:53.460 Mr. McDermott has registered all of his rental properties here in the City of Freeport? 00:08:55.539 --> 00:08:57.459 I'm not sure I'd have to look into that for you. 00:09:01.459 --> 00:09:04.740 Any other discussion? 00:09:04.740 --> 00:09:08.219 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:09:08.219 --> 00:09:09.459 Sellers? 00:09:09.459 --> 00:09:10.339 Aye. 00:09:10.339 --> 00:09:10.899 Klemm? 00:09:10.899 --> 00:09:11.419 Aye. 00:09:11.419 --> 00:09:12.939 Monroe? 00:09:12.939 --> 00:09:13.620 No. 00:09:13.620 --> 00:09:14.500 Simmons? 00:09:14.500 --> 00:09:15.259 No. 00:09:15.259 --> 00:09:15.980 Parker? 00:09:15.980 --> 00:09:16.539 Aye. 00:09:16.539 --> 00:09:17.299 Stacy? 00:09:17.299 --> 00:09:18.059 No. 00:09:18.059 --> 00:09:18.699 Shadle? 00:09:18.699 --> 00:09:19.379 Aye. 00:09:19.379 --> 00:09:20.339 And Sanders? 00:09:20.339 --> 00:09:21.939 No. 00:09:21.939 --> 00:09:23.939 We are tied at four to four. 00:09:23.939 --> 00:09:25.459 Madam Mayor, what say you? 00:09:25.460 --> 00:09:27.900 Aye. 00:09:27.900 --> 00:09:31.200 And McDermott is appointed five to four. 00:09:31.200 --> 00:09:33.780 And then next would be the reappointment for Steve Cox. 00:09:33.780 --> 00:09:34.980 Is there a motion to approve? 00:09:34.980 --> 00:09:35.980 I'll move. 00:09:35.980 --> 00:09:36.980 Second. 00:09:36.980 --> 00:09:42.420 The motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle. 00:09:42.420 --> 00:09:43.420 Discussion? 00:09:43.420 --> 00:09:44.420 Alderman Monroe. 00:09:44.420 --> 00:09:48.139 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 00:09:48.139 --> 00:09:54.019 I'd like to make a motion that we move this to the next regularly scheduled meeting based 00:09:54.019 --> 00:10:00.019 Just on the fact that Mr. Cox is involved in negotiations and 00:10:00.019 --> 00:10:10.620 negotiations and advisement with the the current City Manager petition that's 00:10:10.620 --> 00:10:17.620 going around. What does that have to do with this enterprise zone? It has 00:10:17.620 --> 00:10:24.100 everything to do with Madam Mayor. Okay so that was a motion to move it? Yes. 00:10:24.100 --> 00:10:29.779 Second. So a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Stacy. Any 00:10:29.779 --> 00:10:59.620 I don't want this to be my second. 00:10:59.620 --> 00:11:06.860 I'll make I'll respond but I don't want to be my second that's up to you okay 00:11:06.860 --> 00:11:13.879 then I won't I'm good madam mayor could you repeat what the motion was that the 00:11:13.879 --> 00:11:19.659 appointment of Steve Cox to the enterprise zone be moved to the cow no 00:11:19.659 --> 00:11:28.779 next regularly scheduled scheduled meeting January 21st okay yes okay so 00:11:28.779 --> 00:11:37.279 So, if there's no further discussion on moving that, Madam Clerk, would you please take the role on moving it to the next meeting, the next regularly scheduled meeting? 00:11:37.279 --> 00:11:39.279 Sellers? Aye. 00:11:39.279 --> 00:11:41.279 Klemm? No. 00:11:41.279 --> 00:11:43.279 Monroe? Aye. 00:11:43.279 --> 00:11:45.279 Simmons? Aye. 00:11:45.279 --> 00:11:47.279 Parker? No. 00:11:47.279 --> 00:11:49.279 Stacy? Aye. 00:11:49.279 --> 00:11:51.279 Shadle? No. 00:11:51.279 --> 00:11:53.279 And Sanders? Aye. 00:11:53.279 --> 00:11:56.279 One, two, three, four, five. 00:11:56.279 --> 00:12:03.279 It will be moved to the January 21st council meeting by a vote of 4 to 3. 00:12:03.279 --> 00:12:06.279 It should be 5 to 3. 00:12:06.279 --> 00:12:08.279 5 to 3, thank you. 00:12:08.279 --> 00:12:12.279 Okay, next is recognition of service awards. Manager Boyer? 00:12:12.279 --> 00:12:16.279 I would have to acknowledge the Fire Chief on this one. 00:12:16.279 --> 00:12:18.279 Yes, thank you. 00:12:18.279 --> 00:12:29.839 So it's my pleasure to introduce firefighter paramedic Kevin Meads. Here we're recognizing 00:12:29.839 --> 00:12:35.720 his five-year anniversary with the department. He comes to us from Winnebago and his hired 00:12:35.720 --> 00:12:42.579 date was January 13, 2020. So he's almost five years to date. Some of the certifications 00:12:42.579 --> 00:12:52.220 and Documents that he holds in his position is Basic Firefighter Operations, Advanced 00:12:52.220 --> 00:12:59.419 Firefighter Technician, Paramedic, Fire Service Vehicle Operator, Fire Service Instructor 00:12:59.419 --> 00:13:05.059 1, and then several technical rescue classes consisting of Structural Collapse, Confined 00:13:05.059 --> 00:13:13.259 Space, VMO or Vehicle Machinery Operations, and Rope Operations and Technician Level. 00:13:13.259 --> 00:13:18.059 He's currently a member of the Mavis Technical Rescue Team, meaning he can respond anywhere 00:13:18.059 --> 00:13:22.659 within the county and also outside the county on special requests through Mavis. 00:13:22.659 --> 00:13:28.620 He is also a member of the department's TEMS team, the Technical Emergency Paramedics, 00:13:28.620 --> 00:13:31.980 that also assist with the police department. 00:13:31.980 --> 00:13:36.899 So, and then lastly, he's currently working on his Associate's Degree in Fire Science 00:13:36.899 --> 00:13:38.659 through Rock Valley College. 00:13:38.659 --> 00:13:47.659 So, with that, I'd like to present Kevin with this certificate of five years, and congratulations. 00:13:47.659 --> 00:13:58.819 I also want to add that half the room here is his family that's come to join him this 00:13:58.819 --> 00:13:59.819 evening. 00:13:59.819 --> 00:14:20.819 I appreciate the opportunity to work in this city. It's been an awesome experience for me. I've learned so much. I've gotten to meet the wonderful residents of the city and had a good time doing it with all my friends. Thank you so much. 00:14:20.819 --> 00:14:33.819 We move on to item number seven, which is the second reading of ordinance 2025-01. Could you please read this? 00:14:33.819 --> 00:14:42.819 This was formally Ordinance 2024-86 from last year, amending airplane hanger fees at Freeport-Albertus Airport and adopting revised hanger lease form. 00:14:42.819 --> 00:14:44.819 Thank you. Manager Boyer? 00:14:44.819 --> 00:14:51.299 Thank you, Your Honor. We've gone over this at several meetings. We're requesting Council 00:14:51.299 --> 00:14:59.779 move forward with the new lease format and the new rental rates for J. Hanger. So staff 00:14:59.779 --> 00:15:09.579 requests approval of this at second reading. Discussion? Alderman Stacey? 00:15:09.579 --> 00:15:24.139 I want to be sure, this is talking about 61 hangars? 00:15:24.139 --> 00:15:29.819 This is a new lease agreement and the hanger rate adjustment is for J-hanger. 00:15:29.819 --> 00:15:38.419 So we've recommended no changes at this time except for J-hanger to increase that to $800 00:15:38.420 --> 00:15:59.180 Any further discussion? Alderman, Monroe. Thank you Madam Mayor. So City Manager 00:15:59.180 --> 00:16:10.819 Boyer, the rates for the hangers that have working water and other amenities, I would 00:16:10.819 --> 00:16:21.299 call them, I guess, those hanger prices aren't changing. 00:16:21.299 --> 00:16:22.299 Manager Boyer. 00:16:22.299 --> 00:16:28.299 We have had the airport manager review all the hanger rates, compared them to other communities 00:16:28.299 --> 00:16:33.620 of our similar size and traffic and she has recommended that we do not right now 00:16:33.620 --> 00:16:43.379 our rental rates are in line with other communities of a similar size. Can you 00:16:43.379 --> 00:16:56.580 can you tell me who is the owner of Hangar J? The city of Freeport. I think she 00:16:56.579 --> 00:17:08.139 Meese, Lessie. Who's renting it? No, no, there's a there's a tenant in there 00:17:08.139 --> 00:17:15.139 currently not from Freeport but recently was approved to move in there so 00:17:15.139 --> 00:17:19.819 council approved the last one I don't recall it off the top of my head. 00:17:26.579 --> 00:17:56.579 I don't need it. If discussion is done. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. And Sanders? Aye. The ordinance passes 8-0. Item number 8 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-02. Could you please read this? 00:17:56.579 --> 00:17:59.799 Ordinance Authorizing Northern Illinois Gas Company, 00:17:59.799 --> 00:18:02.200 doing business as NICOR Gas Company, 00:18:02.200 --> 00:18:04.319 to construct, operate, and maintain 00:18:04.319 --> 00:18:06.400 a gas distributing system in and through 00:18:06.400 --> 00:18:08.279 the city of Freeport. 00:18:08.279 --> 00:18:09.400 Manager Boyer. 00:18:09.400 --> 00:18:10.240 Thank you, Your Honor. 00:18:10.240 --> 00:18:13.240 About every 50 years, the city has an opportunity 00:18:13.240 --> 00:18:17.220 to re-enter or renew their enterprise agreement 00:18:17.220 --> 00:18:19.360 with NICOR Gas. 00:18:19.360 --> 00:18:22.880 This has recently come up and was negotiated 00:18:22.880 --> 00:18:25.759 essentially the same terms that we have had in the past. 00:18:25.759 --> 00:18:31.759 However, we've also negotiated free therms for the Freeport Library. 00:18:31.759 --> 00:18:38.119 It's one of our larger gas-using facilities, and I think that will save the city somewhere 00:18:38.119 --> 00:18:42.319 approximately $70,000 a year. 00:18:42.319 --> 00:18:49.240 Correction, it'll save the library $70,000. 00:18:49.240 --> 00:18:50.240 Motion to approve. 00:18:50.240 --> 00:18:51.240 Second. 00:18:51.240 --> 00:18:58.680 We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers to move Ordinance 00:18:58.680 --> 00:19:03.440 2020-502 on to the next meeting. Is there discussion? 00:19:03.680 --> 00:19:09.400 Move on to item number nine, which is the first reading of Ordinance 2020-503. 00:19:09.400 --> 00:19:17.039 Could you please read this? This was formerly Ordinance 2024-85 from last 00:19:17.240 --> 00:19:19.839 . 00:19:33.579 --> 00:19:36.619 since 2017, the city has managed social media pages for city 00:19:38.619 --> 00:19:42.179 posting and information and more. The social media policy 00:19:42.179 --> 00:19:46.139 for all staff has been in place to set guidelines for personal 00:19:46.139 --> 00:19:49.699 has yet to set guidelines for page administrators. 00:19:49.699 --> 00:19:55.420 In addition, public comment on city pages has been limited since 2017. 00:19:55.420 --> 00:19:59.420 In order to improve transparency and strengthen the communication pipeline between the city 00:19:59.420 --> 00:19:59.980 City and Residence 00:19:59.980 --> 00:20:01.980 and 00:20:03.099 --> 00:20:06.000 the City of Freeport believes that the use of social media 00:20:06.000 --> 00:20:09.000 platforms can effectively broaden the reach of government 00:20:09.000 --> 00:20:12.000 communication to its constituents. The use of social 00:20:12.000 --> 00:20:16.000 media by the city is to convey or obtain information that is 00:20:16.000 --> 00:20:18.000 useful to or will further the goals of the city. 00:20:21.000 --> 00:20:24.000 The City of Freeport believes that the use of social media 00:20:24.000 --> 00:20:27.000 platforms can effectively broaden the reach of government 00:20:27.000 --> 00:20:32.000 Information that is useful to or will further the goals of this local government. 00:20:32.000 --> 00:20:37.039 The revised policy also outlines important guidelines for page administrators to ensure 00:20:37.039 --> 00:20:41.079 discourse remains informational and appropriate. 00:20:41.079 --> 00:20:46.620 This is the first reading tonight, but in the end, we recommend that the Council approves 00:20:46.620 --> 00:20:47.620 this policy. 00:20:47.620 --> 00:20:48.620 Thank you. 00:20:48.620 --> 00:20:50.279 Is there a motion to move this forward? 00:20:50.279 --> 00:20:51.279 So moved. 00:20:51.279 --> 00:20:52.279 Second. 00:20:52.279 --> 00:21:02.620 May, Alderman, Klemm, Alderman, Sellers, discussion? Alderman Sanders? 00:21:02.620 --> 00:21:10.000 Do I understand that there's no administrator at this point in time? Is that what you're 00:21:10.000 --> 00:21:11.000 saying? 00:21:11.000 --> 00:21:15.579 There is an administrator for the city, an administrator for the police, an administrator 00:21:15.579 --> 00:21:22.160 for the fire and the library, and the communications director, which is myself, also administrates 00:21:22.160 --> 00:21:30.360 All Pages. So who is supervising that media page? So the media page that you are probably 00:21:30.360 --> 00:21:37.240 referring to is Facebook and the administrator for the city is myself, the communications 00:21:37.240 --> 00:21:46.160 director. So you're the sole person that is managing, you're the sole person that is managing 00:21:46.160 --> 00:21:50.160 that website? For the most part I am the sole person, however there are other people who 00:21:50.160 --> 00:21:54.620 who have access to it that in times of need are able to post. 00:21:54.620 --> 00:22:03.720 So how many administrators can you have at one time or not at just one time but at the 00:22:03.720 --> 00:22:12.240 council's discretion, the city's discretion to have privy information to enter into those 00:22:12.240 --> 00:22:15.880 administrative areas? 00:22:15.880 --> 00:22:25.860 I don't think there is a limit that Facebook or Meta puts on their site, however, within 00:22:25.860 --> 00:22:35.740 this policy, the branch that we are adopting is City Manager oversees the administrators. 00:22:35.740 --> 00:22:40.660 So ultimately, discretion falls on City Manager. 00:22:40.660 --> 00:22:41.900 City Manager. 00:22:41.900 --> 00:22:46.180 but that does not mean the City Manager posts nor comments on anything. 00:22:46.180 --> 00:22:47.180 Okay. 00:22:47.180 --> 00:22:59.059 I just want to see how it's operated and the mission and goals of the website and what 00:22:59.059 --> 00:23:01.980 is this protocol. 00:23:01.980 --> 00:23:08.620 I would like to see that because we all need to see the protocol of that website and how 00:23:08.620 --> 00:23:10.620 it's going to be governed. 00:23:10.620 --> 00:23:13.819 and that's an excellent point that you make and that is exactly what this policy does. 00:23:13.819 --> 00:23:18.500 Okay, all right, thank you. 00:23:18.500 --> 00:23:19.500 Any further discussion? 00:23:19.500 --> 00:23:20.500 Alderman Monroe. 00:23:20.500 --> 00:23:23.099 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 00:23:23.099 --> 00:23:26.140 This is a topic that's come up quite a bit across the country. 00:23:26.140 --> 00:23:34.180 The Supreme Court, many of you may or may not know, recently ruled on this back in 2024 00:23:34.180 --> 00:23:41.420 and it actually would put the city in my opinion at greater risk of a lawsuit. 00:23:41.420 --> 00:23:47.400 Social media itself has tools that have been designed across all platforms to report posts 00:23:47.400 --> 00:23:54.840 that go against community standards and I don't believe in a lot of ways this is creating 00:23:54.840 --> 00:23:56.340 any transparency. 00:23:56.340 --> 00:24:03.860 In a lot of ways it's creating a lack of transparency because it allows city officials and staff 00:24:03.860 --> 00:24:10.860 and others, and we have a lot of people that are trying to block comments that they find divisive based on their viewpoints. 00:24:10.860 --> 00:24:13.860 It could be religious, it could be social, it could be whatever it might be. 00:24:13.860 --> 00:24:18.860 But in a general scheme of the First Amendment, we're given those rights to speak out. 00:24:18.860 --> 00:24:23.860 And the problem is, this may be well-intentioned. 00:24:23.860 --> 00:24:31.860 But in a lot of ways, this is the rabbit hole that once you open it, doesn't get applied appropriately. 00:24:31.860 --> 00:24:35.619 and with so many people having access to this, 00:24:35.619 --> 00:24:38.180 the citizens don't know who's blocking them. 00:24:38.180 --> 00:24:40.299 It could be the City Manager who disagrees with somebody 00:24:40.299 --> 00:24:43.519 who doesn't like what he's doing with the roads. 00:24:43.519 --> 00:24:45.579 That doesn't mean what they posted was wrong 00:24:45.579 --> 00:24:49.980 or incorrect or inflammatory or anything else. 00:24:49.980 --> 00:24:51.579 It just means that they spoke out 00:24:51.579 --> 00:24:54.940 and they voiced their opinion in a community forum. 00:24:54.940 --> 00:24:58.900 And I think it's a very, very dangerous path to go down 00:24:58.900 --> 00:25:06.740 to allow any member of the city staff to block and you know I know the police department does it 00:25:06.740 --> 00:25:12.820 regularly they turn off posts they turn off things when people would even make comments 00:25:12.820 --> 00:25:21.140 encouraging them and saying they've done a great job but as as citizens we've got a responsibility 00:25:21.140 --> 00:25:28.660 as well but I I think as all of us here on this council and as staff have a responsibility to 00:25:28.660 --> 00:25:29.660 and others. 00:25:29.660 --> 00:25:55.180 I think it's a very dangerous path to take when you start messing with First Amendment, 00:25:55.180 --> 00:25:58.619 because it is really our ability as citizens to speak out. 00:25:58.619 --> 00:26:04.779 and John. And we've seen in the last, today as a matter of fact, the city officials trying 00:26:04.779 --> 00:26:11.139 to block people from speaking out. And I think that this just gives another avenue for that 00:26:11.139 --> 00:26:17.700 to happen. And I really believe strongly this should not go through. I hope the citizens 00:26:17.700 --> 00:26:23.440 will call and speak up and say that they feel it shouldn't go through. But our First Amendment 00:26:23.440 --> 00:26:28.180 here in the United States is the foundation for what all of our society is built on. And 00:26:28.180 --> 00:26:29.180 and others. 00:26:29.180 --> 00:26:34.720 We have a few people who are trying to control that speech from the government level. 00:26:34.720 --> 00:26:37.099 That is a horrible, horrible thing. 00:26:37.099 --> 00:26:39.099 Director Bridge. 00:26:39.099 --> 00:26:47.880 Alderman Monroe, I understand your perspective because we have heard it within City Hall 00:26:47.880 --> 00:26:55.720 that hey, we need to be prepared to not use too much of our opinion, right? 00:26:55.720 --> 00:27:02.880 So I totally understand your perspective and I won't say that you are entirely wrong. 00:27:02.880 --> 00:27:11.400 However, this policy does lay out really good guidelines to keep us from having one head 00:27:11.400 --> 00:27:13.920 of power. 00:27:13.920 --> 00:27:21.720 We have to understand that posts that attack a person are not going to be blocked because 00:27:21.720 --> 00:27:24.140 of this policy. 00:27:24.140 --> 00:27:26.779 We don't have a policy right now. 00:27:26.779 --> 00:27:28.820 So those comments can get blocked. 00:27:28.820 --> 00:27:33.279 So technically we are not having good transparency right now. 00:27:33.279 --> 00:27:36.579 So I understand your perspective. 00:27:36.579 --> 00:27:44.579 I still would say let's see what this policy can do for us because I know what goes on 00:27:44.579 --> 00:27:45.579 at City Hall. 00:27:45.579 --> 00:27:50.579 We are trying our best to represent the residents of Freeport. 00:27:50.579 --> 00:27:56.220 Right now we're not doing that as well as we can be doing if we have this policy in place. 00:27:56.220 --> 00:27:57.220 Alderman Sanders. 00:27:57.220 --> 00:28:18.019 Yeah, I have an understanding what the Alderman Monroe is saying and I also feel there's not 00:28:18.019 --> 00:28:29.059 not enough detail as he is explaining for transparency and I think before we initiate any movement 00:28:29.059 --> 00:28:39.019 on this particular ordinance that we do a due diligence of evaluation of this particular 00:28:39.019 --> 00:28:40.019 Miller. 00:28:40.019 --> 00:29:00.259 We need to see things that you are actually speaking on in writing. 00:29:00.259 --> 00:29:06.699 How we look at it from a different viewpoint when it's in writing and then we can probably 00:29:06.700 --> 00:29:09.240 Walker, and many more. 00:29:09.240 --> 00:29:14.660 I have to say, we are trying to move forward. 00:29:14.660 --> 00:29:22.980 Not only are you setting up a policy, but you have to remember the public, the Council, 00:29:22.980 --> 00:29:29.980 the administrative staff of this city hall also have input on certain things and guidelines. 00:29:29.980 --> 00:29:59.950 and 00:29:59.950 --> 00:30:09.190 We need to be able to bring those things forth. I understand the concerns. There is a big concern 00:30:09.190 --> 00:30:17.390 here. And let us move cautiously with all of that. 00:30:17.390 --> 00:30:22.430 Just in case you weren't aware, in your packet, there's seven pages in writing on this policy. 00:30:22.430 --> 00:30:26.509 There's seven pages. Director Bridge? 00:30:26.509 --> 00:30:29.870 So I'll say a couple things. 00:30:29.870 --> 00:30:32.789 Number one, we did talk about this at the Committee of the Whole. 00:30:32.789 --> 00:30:35.049 There was no discussion. 00:30:35.049 --> 00:30:37.309 There was nothing from Councilmembers. 00:30:37.309 --> 00:30:43.990 So if there had been something from Councilmembers, and that is not to blame anyone on this floor, 00:30:43.990 --> 00:30:49.670 but I wish that some discussion would come, and that is why this is a first reading so 00:30:49.670 --> 00:30:52.789 that we can have those kinds of talks. 00:30:52.789 --> 00:30:53.789 Sullivan. 00:30:53.789 --> 00:30:56.269 We can also operate with the community at a union level. 00:30:56.269 --> 00:31:00.630 I don't know how you prefer this word together a union-level, I got the same thing. 00:31:00.630 --> 00:31:05.090 Let me read from section three of the Social Media Policy. 00:31:05.090 --> 00:31:09.250 In case someone doesn't have it in front of them. 00:31:09.250 --> 00:31:12.829 Social media platforms not only provide the government with a communications venue but 00:31:12.829 --> 00:31:17.990 often allow for public comment to be posted to the city's sites. 00:31:17.990 --> 00:31:19.990 and the City of Houston. 00:31:19.990 --> 00:31:22.269 The following policies are not subject to 00:31:22.269 --> 00:31:24.090 removal or restriction by the 00:31:24.090 --> 00:31:26.090 administration. 00:31:26.090 --> 00:31:28.090 These policies do not comply 00:31:28.090 --> 00:31:30.090 endorsement or agreement by the 00:31:30.090 --> 00:31:32.090 government nor reflect the opinions or 00:31:32.090 --> 00:31:34.090 policies of the government. 00:31:34.090 --> 00:31:36.090 The following enumerated list of 00:31:36.090 --> 00:31:38.090 content may not be permitted on the 00:31:38.090 --> 00:31:40.090 City's social media platforms and 00:31:40.090 --> 00:31:42.090 such content is subject to removal 00:31:42.090 --> 00:31:44.090 and or restriction by the 00:31:44.090 --> 00:31:46.090 administrator. 00:31:46.090 --> 00:31:47.090 and others. 00:31:47.090 --> 00:31:51.930 It includes personal identifiable information such as a social security number or other 00:31:51.930 --> 00:31:58.470 sensitive information, violates any federal, state or local law or encourages illegal activity, 00:31:58.470 --> 00:32:03.970 is obscene, sexual or pornographic in content and or language, promotes commercial activities 00:32:03.970 --> 00:32:10.769 not related to government business, is spam or links to malware or viruses, or discloses 00:32:10.769 --> 00:32:15.870 confidential government information, sensitive information or personal information relating 00:32:15.870 --> 00:32:17.870 and 00:32:19.309 --> 00:32:21.009 other members of the public. And lastly, before I turn it 00:32:21.009 --> 00:32:28.029 back over, if you are in City Hall walking alongside me, you 00:32:28.029 --> 00:32:30.930 know what kind of person I am and I'm not one who makes 00:32:30.930 --> 00:32:35.590 decisions by myself. Though the Communications Department is a 00:32:35.590 --> 00:32:39.890 one-person thing, I do not make decisions by myself. The City 00:32:39.890 --> 00:32:43.710 Manager does not make decisions by himself. He and I do not 00:32:43.710 --> 00:32:49.269 and I do not make decisions by ourselves, it is a team effort here, and that is why 00:32:49.269 --> 00:32:52.470 this is on the floor before you. 00:32:52.470 --> 00:32:54.470 Manager Boyer, did you want to say something? 00:32:54.470 --> 00:32:56.590 No, I'm good. 00:32:56.590 --> 00:32:57.590 Any further discussion? 00:32:57.590 --> 00:32:58.590 Alderman Monroe. 00:32:58.590 --> 00:33:00.750 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 00:33:00.750 --> 00:33:03.110 Thank you for reading that, Director. 00:33:03.110 --> 00:33:06.230 You know, you bring up a couple of really good points. 00:33:06.230 --> 00:33:07.230 I'm going to go through them. 00:33:07.230 --> 00:33:10.590 Promotes discrimination, define discrimination for me. 00:33:10.590 --> 00:33:11.590 That's a gray area, Mr. 00:33:11.590 --> 00:33:12.590 Thank you, exactly. 00:33:12.590 --> 00:33:19.029 Exactly. Part number number six. I think we all know what obscene sexual and 00:33:19.029 --> 00:33:23.990 pornographic content is, but explain to me what that language is. That's a gray 00:33:23.990 --> 00:33:28.910 area, Mr. Monroe. Thank you. Once again, here we are going down a rabbit hole. 00:33:28.910 --> 00:33:33.390 What you consider to be obscene, what the city manager of the mayor considers 00:33:33.390 --> 00:33:38.710 obscene, the Supreme Court says is free speech. And those are things that you're 00:33:38.710 --> 00:33:42.710 DeVine, and the President of the United States, and I want to 00:33:42.710 --> 00:33:45.710 thank you for your work in the room, and the work you're 00:33:45.710 --> 00:33:50.710 taking into your powers as a government official and applying 00:33:50.710 --> 00:33:54.710 those to individuals in the community. That limits the 00:33:54.710 --> 00:33:58.710 communication and the ability of those citizens to stand up and 00:33:58.710 --> 00:34:02.710 voice their opinions about how the city is doing. And this is 00:34:02.710 --> 00:34:06.710 where it comes. There was recently within the last six 00:34:06.710 --> 00:34:08.710 and the other two weeks ago. 00:34:08.710 --> 00:34:15.710 And he was arrested because the police chief and the sheriff said it's not allowed. 00:34:15.710 --> 00:34:17.710 Well guess what happened two weeks later? 00:34:17.710 --> 00:34:20.710 His lawyer and he came back to the room and they served him papers. 00:34:20.710 --> 00:34:25.710 The city paid $50,000 for violating their constitutional rights. 00:34:25.710 --> 00:34:28.710 This is where this is going. 00:34:28.710 --> 00:34:32.710 And the problem is you want me to trust you. 00:34:32.710 --> 00:34:33.710 and others. 00:34:33.710 --> 00:34:40.230 I don't trust people easily because I've seen what's happened with behavior behind closed 00:34:40.230 --> 00:34:46.750 doors in this building and all of a sudden now you're coming here in front of this forum, 00:34:46.750 --> 00:34:50.349 the people that represent the citizens of Freeport and you want to take away those people's 00:34:50.349 --> 00:34:56.949 rights to speak and that is a major problem anywhere in the United States of America. 00:34:56.949 --> 00:35:08.949 Fowler, Director, Bridge, only thing I will say to that is this is not taking away. We are taking away right now. This is adding to what they can say. 00:35:08.949 --> 00:35:15.949 If there is no further discussion, move on to the next item. Thank you, Director, Bridge. 00:35:15.949 --> 00:35:22.949 Move on to item number 11, which is the adoption of resolution 2025-02. Could you please read this? 00:35:22.949 --> 00:35:28.630 Resolution Approving Memorandum of Understanding with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for 00:35:28.630 --> 00:35:30.829 Response to Calls for Service. 00:35:30.829 --> 00:35:31.829 Thank you. 00:35:31.829 --> 00:35:32.829 Chief Shenberger. 00:35:32.829 --> 00:35:39.970 The United States Department of Veterans Affairs operates facility within the City of Freeport 00:35:39.970 --> 00:35:42.710 at 750 South Kiwanis Drive. 00:35:42.710 --> 00:35:47.230 The VA is requesting the City of Freeport to enter an MOU regarding the response to 00:35:47.230 --> 00:35:50.150 calls for service at the VA. 00:35:50.150 --> 00:35:58.230 Thomas, MOU will be effective upon signature and the date will be reviewed every three years. 00:35:58.230 --> 00:35:59.510 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:35:59.510 --> 00:36:00.510 So moved. 00:36:00.510 --> 00:36:01.510 Second. 00:36:01.510 --> 00:36:06.829 A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 00:36:06.829 --> 00:36:11.230 Discussion on the resolution? 00:36:11.230 --> 00:36:13.630 Seeing none, Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? 00:36:13.630 --> 00:36:14.630 Sellers? 00:36:14.630 --> 00:36:15.630 Aye. 00:36:15.630 --> 00:36:16.630 Klemm? 00:36:16.630 --> 00:36:17.630 Aye. 00:36:17.630 --> 00:36:18.630 Monroe? 00:36:18.630 --> 00:36:19.630 Aye. 00:36:19.630 --> 00:36:25.630 Senator, aye, Stacy, aye, Shadle, aye, Sanders is currently absent. 00:36:25.630 --> 00:36:28.889 The resolution is adopted 7-0. 00:36:28.889 --> 00:36:31.909 Item number 12 is the adoption of resolution 20-2503. 00:36:31.909 --> 00:36:33.590 Could you please read this? 00:36:33.590 --> 00:36:38.110 Resolution approving invoice from Stevers Ford for upfitting for three new squad vehicles. 00:36:38.110 --> 00:36:39.110 Thank you. 00:36:39.110 --> 00:36:40.110 Chief Shenberger? 00:36:40.110 --> 00:36:43.930 The Freeport Police Department is currently in need of purchasing and replacing three 00:36:43.930 --> 00:36:45.470 squad cars. 00:36:45.470 --> 00:36:51.349 The squad cars will replace F2, which is a 2021 Dodge Durango with about 75,000 miles, 00:36:51.349 --> 00:37:00.030 F5, a 2021 Dodge Durango with about 90,000 miles, and F6, a 2022 Ford Explorer with 75,000 00:37:00.030 --> 00:37:01.030 miles. 00:37:01.030 --> 00:37:05.789 All three squad cars are currently utilized by the Patrol Division. 00:37:05.789 --> 00:37:11.449 On December 16th, 2024, the Council approved the squad bid submitted by Stivers Ford in 00:37:11.449 --> 00:37:20.769 and Walkie, Iowa, at $48,190 for each for three 2025 Ford Explorer police interceptors 00:37:20.769 --> 00:37:27.970 for a total of $144,570,000. 00:37:27.970 --> 00:37:33.250 Minus $19,000 to trade in the four older squad cars, the total cost to purchase the three 00:37:33.250 --> 00:37:38.409 new squad cars will be $125,570. 00:37:38.409 --> 00:37:45.450 During subsequent conversations with Stivers-Ford, the salesmen agreed to discount squad cars 00:37:45.450 --> 00:37:53.970 by $500 each, which ended up being a total of $124,070, which includes the $19,000 deduction 00:37:53.970 --> 00:37:56.409 for trade-ins. 00:37:56.409 --> 00:38:00.690 Stivers-Ford also submitted a bid to upfit the three marked squad cars. 00:38:00.690 --> 00:38:05.890 Stivers-Ford upfitted the squad cars purchased by the police department in 2024, and the 00:38:05.889 --> 00:38:08.889 and others. 00:38:08.889 --> 00:38:18.170 The cost to upfit the two Ford Explorers from Dodge Durangos will be $8,375 each. 00:38:18.170 --> 00:38:24.550 The cost to upfit the third Ford Explorer Police Interceptor will be $7,372. 00:38:24.550 --> 00:38:33.329 So the total cost to upfit all three vehicles will be $148,192. 00:38:33.329 --> 00:38:40.289 The funding for the three new squad cars and upfitting is provided in the fiscal year 2025 00:38:40.289 --> 00:38:46.570 Police Department Capital Budget 331-302-7005. 00:38:46.570 --> 00:38:47.570 Thank you. 00:38:47.570 --> 00:38:48.570 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:38:48.570 --> 00:38:49.570 Motion to adopt, Mayor. 00:38:49.570 --> 00:38:50.570 Second. 00:38:50.570 --> 00:38:55.130 We have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Parker. 00:38:55.130 --> 00:38:56.130 Discussion on the resolution? 00:38:56.130 --> 00:38:57.130 Seeing none. 00:38:57.130 --> 00:38:58.130 Oh, I'm sorry. 00:38:58.130 --> 00:38:59.130 Alderman Stacy. 00:38:59.130 --> 00:39:00.130 Yes. 00:39:00.130 --> 00:39:26.130 Yes, I just have a question. And it maybe was spoken of the first time. I just do not remember. And I would just like to know why did we, why Iowa? Why not our Ford dealership right here in good old Freeport? 00:39:26.130 --> 00:39:37.170 couldn't we get the discounts and all the extra right here you know and I would 00:39:37.170 --> 00:39:42.450 agree with that but we did post the bid and we had only one full response and 00:39:42.450 --> 00:39:47.769 that was from Stivers in Iowa and we had one incomplete response which was out of 00:39:47.769 --> 00:39:50.769 Detroit, Michigan. 00:39:50.769 --> 00:39:59.010 Thank you, Madam Mayor. Chief, there are only a few dealerships within, say, 400 miles 00:39:59.010 --> 00:40:00.010 and others. 00:40:00.010 --> 00:40:00.030 Thank you. 00:40:00.030 --> 00:40:05.030 I'd say 400 miles up here that sell these type of vehicles. Is that true or not? 00:40:05.030 --> 00:40:13.030 Well, I mean, there's probably more dealerships. I don't know. I mean, you can, you know, we've bought them locally before. 00:40:13.030 --> 00:40:18.030 But like I said, we posted the bid and we only had one complete response, so. 00:40:22.030 --> 00:40:26.030 There's no further discussion. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:40:26.030 --> 00:40:27.030 Sellers? 00:40:27.030 --> 00:40:28.030 Aye. 00:40:28.030 --> 00:40:29.030 Klemm? 00:40:29.030 --> 00:40:59.030 Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. And Sanders? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8 to 0. Item number 13 is the adoption of resolution 2025-04. Could you please read this? Resolution approving Memorandum of Understanding with Fraternal Order of Police regarding Post-Employment Health Plan or PEP. Thank you. Manager Boyer. Madam Mayor. Chief. 00:40:59.030 --> 00:41:29.030 Sure. So before we get into this memo, I just want to clarify something about that was brought up. This is by no means this is not post employment health insurance. Once you separate, you don't have health insurance unless you participate in the COBRA. So this is just a savings account, a medical savings account that the city was contributing to. But during the recent negotiations with the FOP, they got rid of the PEP plan. So this is to consider 00:41:29.030 --> 00:41:36.670 3 people who had this benefit throughout their entire career and then during discussions 00:41:36.670 --> 00:41:42.510 with the union it was suggested that they would be allowed to have that during this 00:41:42.510 --> 00:41:43.550 next contract. 00:41:43.550 --> 00:41:50.390 So in a prior version of the collective bargaining agreement between the City of Freeport and 00:41:50.390 --> 00:41:56.310 the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, employees were entitled to a post-employment 00:41:56.310 --> 00:41:57.090 and 00:41:57.090 --> 00:42:01.990 a PEP plan to help fund health insurance costs post-employment. 00:42:01.990 --> 00:42:09.110 The current CBA between the city and IL FOPLC no longer includes this benefit. 00:42:09.110 --> 00:42:13.789 At the time the current CBA was negotiated, three employees either reached or will reach 00:42:13.789 --> 00:42:19.150 20 years of service during the current agreement, qualifying them for the at-retirement portion 00:42:19.150 --> 00:42:22.150 of the previous PEP provisions. 00:42:22.150 --> 00:42:22.750 M. Hickman, 00:42:22.750 --> 00:42:24.550 Patrolman Brandi Hilbyshe, 00:42:24.550 --> 00:42:27.950 Patrolman Brandi Hilbyshe reached 25 years of service in October of 2024. 00:42:27.950 --> 00:42:32.550 Patrolman Eric Diemer will reach 20 years of service in September of 2025. 00:42:32.550 --> 00:42:37.550 And Patrolman Tony Bradbury will reach 20 years of service in October of 2027. 00:42:37.550 --> 00:42:42.550 In recognition of the years of service, the officers and as part of, years of, years of 00:42:42.550 --> 00:42:48.550 service, the officers and as part of the agreement reached with the ILFOP, IOF, I'm getting, 00:42:48.550 --> 00:42:50.550 I'm going to start all over. 00:42:50.550 --> 00:42:58.550 ILFOPLC, the city desires to extend the specific at-retire provisions from the former section 00:42:58.550 --> 00:43:02.230 11.7 to these three officers. 00:43:02.230 --> 00:43:09.190 So if one of these three officers chooses to retire during the current ILFOPLC CBA, 00:43:09.190 --> 00:43:13.910 the following language will be applicable and honored at the time of retirement, effective 00:43:13.910 --> 00:43:19.190 Upon the retirement of an officer with 20 or more years of employment with the city, 00:43:19.190 --> 00:43:25.470 the city shall contribute to the employee's post-employment health plan, health care premium 00:43:25.470 --> 00:43:32.150 sub-account, an amount equal to $4 for every hour of unused sick time accumulated during 00:43:32.150 --> 00:43:41.910 the employee's 10-year service, up to a maximum of $5,556. 00:43:41.910 --> 00:43:43.750 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:43:43.750 --> 00:43:44.570 So moved. 00:43:45.430 --> 00:43:47.190 We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm, 00:43:47.190 --> 00:43:48.830 seconded by Alderman Parker. 00:43:49.710 --> 00:43:52.250 Any discussion on the adoption? 00:43:52.250 --> 00:43:53.150 Alderman Stacy. 00:43:54.230 --> 00:43:59.230 Are you saying that these three employees 00:44:05.390 --> 00:44:10.390 would be the last three officers to receive this benefit? 00:44:10.390 --> 00:44:40.390 That's correct. And the city was contributing to the PEP plans. That was something that was given up during the negotiations. If you had 10 years or under, the city was contributing 1% of the salary per year to this plan. And if you had more than 10 years, then the city was contributing 1.5%. So that has been given up. The accounts are still there, whatever the officers were able to accumulate throughout their tenure here. It's just, 00:44:40.390 --> 00:44:43.050 and 00:44:43.050 --> 00:44:50.270 who could possibly reach the age of retirement during this current contract. 00:44:50.270 --> 00:44:59.670 Because it was something that was afforded to them or offered to them up until this point. 00:44:59.670 --> 00:45:00.670 Any other discussion? 00:45:00.670 --> 00:45:01.670 Alderman Monroe? 00:45:01.670 --> 00:45:09.550 just to be clear theoretically there's an amount of cash in this amount in this 00:45:09.550 --> 00:45:13.870 these accounts already that's accumulated so they could already be at 00:45:13.870 --> 00:45:19.470 the five thousand five hundred and fifty six dollars or no no I mean yeah they 00:45:19.470 --> 00:45:23.590 they would have accounts with money in that the city has contributed to you 00:45:23.590 --> 00:45:27.230 know during the time they've worked here up until this point that's just the 00:45:27.230 --> 00:45:28.230 and others. 00:45:28.230 --> 00:45:35.350 So if they have the maximum amount of sick time and they decide to leave next year, then 00:45:35.350 --> 00:45:44.150 the city would pay $4 an hour, which would be a max out of $5,556 that would go in that 00:45:44.150 --> 00:45:45.150 account. 00:45:45.150 --> 00:45:56.150 So if they had 500 hours of sick time, it would be significantly less. 00:45:56.150 --> 00:46:03.910 Any further discussion, Alderman Stacy? 00:46:03.910 --> 00:46:20.270 What you have said tonight has given me more insight and I'm using my last question, so 00:46:20.270 --> 00:46:32.270 I would like to make a motion that we move this to the COW so that we can have a greater 00:46:32.270 --> 00:46:41.550 understanding and more discussion on this matter because I, if they're invested and 00:46:41.550 --> 00:46:48.070 have been invested, then just maybe they should be acknowledged. 00:46:48.070 --> 00:46:59.390 But to add something back into a contract that was missed, no, I'm not for that, but according 00:46:59.390 --> 00:47:04.470 to what you're saying, that's not what's happening, am I correct? 00:47:04.470 --> 00:47:11.030 This was brought up during the negotiations, just not in the contract. 00:47:11.030 --> 00:47:17.710 I make a motion that we move this to the COW for greater discussion. 00:47:17.710 --> 00:47:19.550 Is there a second? 00:47:19.550 --> 00:47:20.710 Yeah, I'll second. 00:47:23.990 --> 00:47:26.230 OK, so what's on the floor before you 00:47:26.230 --> 00:47:30.590 is a motion to move this to the COW, which would be next week. 00:47:30.590 --> 00:47:33.630 Is there any discussion on the movement? 00:47:33.630 --> 00:47:37.670 Madam Clerk, please take the role on the, yes. 00:47:37.670 --> 00:47:39.789 So are we just trying to get information 00:47:39.789 --> 00:47:44.510 on moving it to the COW to get more information on understanding 00:47:44.510 --> 00:47:53.270 Why just these three are getting this, or are we moving it to? 00:47:53.270 --> 00:47:57.910 No, it only pertains to these three, to my understanding. 00:47:57.910 --> 00:48:00.070 It only pertains to these three. 00:48:00.070 --> 00:48:04.070 OK, so I just want to know, what am I going to be looking for? 00:48:04.070 --> 00:48:06.070 What questions should I ask? 00:48:06.070 --> 00:48:09.150 Because I don't understand what else we need to. 00:48:09.150 --> 00:48:09.710 I don't know. 00:48:09.710 --> 00:48:12.750 You might have to talk to Chief Shenberger and get that. 00:48:12.750 --> 00:48:14.150 But I'm saying, I'm OK with it. 00:48:14.150 --> 00:48:44.150 that's why I'm saying I just want to understand the reasoning for you know continuing the the conversation on it I just want to I just want to know that's all I want to know do you I don't know is it because thank you thank you Madam Mayor you know I don't think any of these officers are retiring in the next two weeks so the delay I don't think is a huge deal from that standpoint yeah I've got a few questions myself I'd 00:48:44.150 --> 00:49:02.150 I'd like to know how much is in those accounts, financially, how much that means, and I had asked that question before this meeting, but never heard back, so I'd at least like to understand that, I mean, we're probably talking a few hundred bucks to a thousand bucks, maybe, each, but I mean, that's just a thought. 00:49:02.150 --> 00:49:05.150 Okay. Director Richter, did you have an answer on that? 00:49:05.150 --> 00:49:06.150 I do. 00:49:06.150 --> 00:49:09.150 Oh, perfect. 00:49:09.150 --> 00:49:28.150 So, PEP is something that currently all employees get, but it's been, well, with police it has been negotiated out, but it is up until 10 years, until you work 10 years, you get 1% of your wage. 00:49:28.150 --> 00:49:40.150 So every payroll, we calculate 1% of your base wage, it doesn't apply to overtime, it's just your base wage, goes into an account. 00:49:40.150 --> 00:49:45.150 So, you know, for an average employee, you know, it might just be $15 a paycheck. 00:49:45.150 --> 00:49:53.150 But if you're here for 20 years, if you're here for 30 years, yes, it is substantial. 00:49:53.150 --> 00:49:59.990 and when I say substantial, you know it could be $30,000 or something, but you can't use 00:49:59.990 --> 00:50:06.190 and others, but you can't use these funds until you separate from the City of Freeport, 00:50:06.190 --> 00:50:13.550 and they are for medical expenses, is the purpose of the funds. 00:50:13.550 --> 00:50:19.630 So yes, they add up, you have to be here a while. 00:50:19.630 --> 00:50:20.630 Chief? 00:50:20.630 --> 00:50:26.150 Yeah, and I'm sure this is already clear, I know people listening to me try to fumble 00:50:26.150 --> 00:50:27.750 through this. 00:50:27.750 --> 00:50:35.170 So the only payout is for, let's say, someone retires tomorrow and they have 500 hours of 00:50:35.170 --> 00:50:36.170 sick time. 00:50:36.170 --> 00:50:40.330 The only payout is $4 an hour for the sick time. 00:50:40.330 --> 00:50:45.350 So that's what it is, it's not to continue to contribute to it, it's just to pay out 00:50:45.350 --> 00:50:48.790 for the sick time, that's all. 00:50:48.790 --> 00:50:51.870 Alderman, Klemm. 00:50:51.870 --> 00:50:56.430 This would very rarely be for the Chief or Michelle, so basically this is similar to 00:50:56.430 --> 00:51:12.150 Okay, so before you is the motion to move this to the next COW next week. Madam Clerk, 00:51:12.150 --> 00:51:18.870 would you please take the roll on moving it to the COW? Sellers? No. Klemm? No. Monroe? 00:51:18.870 --> 00:51:48.870 Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? No. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? No. And Sanders? Aye. I can't believe, I can't believe this man. We are tied again, four to four. Mayor? I'm not sure what more is going to be learned, but if you want to have more understanding, then let's move it to the cow. Motion passes five to four to move item 13 to the cow. Thank you, Mayor. 00:51:48.870 --> 00:51:58.150 Discussion and Possible Action to Install a Street Light at the Intersection of Iroquois 00:51:58.150 --> 00:52:00.190 Street and State Avenue. 00:52:00.190 --> 00:52:13.470 Alderman Stacey and Simmons, yes, I am, I'm asking the City of Freeport to put a stoplight, 00:52:13.470 --> 00:52:20.950 I'm sorry, a light at State and Iroquois. 00:52:20.950 --> 00:52:24.950 This is where a young man was murdered. 00:52:24.950 --> 00:52:32.390 And it's Shalom Park or picnic area. 00:52:32.390 --> 00:52:35.230 And it's pitch black. 00:52:35.230 --> 00:52:37.670 Yes, yes it is. 00:52:37.670 --> 00:52:42.670 and you know, we say we wanna make a difference 00:52:45.410 --> 00:52:47.190 in these neighborhoods. 00:52:48.390 --> 00:52:53.390 We want people to be safe and be better and do better. 00:52:54.590 --> 00:52:58.490 If something goes down at that spot tonight, 00:52:58.490 --> 00:53:00.870 it's no way you'll even be able to tell 00:53:02.710 --> 00:53:04.030 if they're white or black 00:53:04.030 --> 00:53:07.030 and 00:53:07.030 --> 00:53:14.030 because the area is dark. And so I am asking the city, we done marched over this, we done 00:53:14.490 --> 00:53:21.490 had gatherings over this, we done had church outside on the lawn for this. So I'm asking 00:53:23.450 --> 00:53:30.450 the city to move forward in lightening that area. I don't care if it's a street light, 00:53:30.450 --> 00:53:43.450 I don't care if it's a street light, I don't care if it's a private light just over the Shalom Park area, 00:53:44.450 --> 00:53:57.450 but we need to change that dilemma so that it doesn't happen again, and we need light on that corner. 00:54:00.450 --> 00:54:30.450 Shadle. Alderman Shadle. There's a street light on the corner. There. On the southeast corner. There's a pole. It's got a street light on. Alderman Shadle, have you driven through there? I drove by it tonight. Okay, was it dark outside? It had not become lit yet. Okay, so when you leave here tonight, I'm gonna ask you to go to the 00:54:30.450 --> 00:54:41.690 I ask you to please drive through Iroquois all the way up to state and you will see exactly 00:54:41.690 --> 00:54:44.289 what I'm speaking of. 00:54:44.289 --> 00:54:46.370 It's pitch black. 00:54:46.370 --> 00:54:56.250 Yes, there is a street light across the street, but it's heading toward the Iroquois way, 00:54:56.250 --> 00:55:03.610 at the State Way. 00:55:03.610 --> 00:55:08.010 Manager Boyer, is there any way we can put a brighter light in that spot that Alderman 00:55:08.010 --> 00:55:10.050 Shadle is talking about? 00:55:10.050 --> 00:55:15.210 I can go by there tonight and have a look and yes, we can put a brighter light on the 00:55:15.210 --> 00:55:17.090 existing pole. 00:55:17.090 --> 00:55:20.570 I'm sure Mr. Galrapp would be helpful with us on that one. 00:55:20.570 --> 00:55:24.250 So yeah, I'm sure we can make that happen. 00:55:24.250 --> 00:55:31.210 Sellers. I drive that way all the time but um and I do know there is a light but I 00:55:31.210 --> 00:55:35.410 think the problem is not really the light I think that the trees around there 00:55:35.410 --> 00:55:41.530 need to be cut back a lot because those trees cover that light because that's the 00:55:41.530 --> 00:55:46.250 way I go all the time when I'm leaving my family home and I go there all the 00:55:46.250 --> 00:55:50.710 time but it's the trees that need to be cut back because they're too thick 00:55:50.710 --> 00:55:58.710 Hick, around that light. Okay, Director Duckman, what are the chances of that, too, happening? 00:55:58.710 --> 00:56:06.710 Of trimming back those trees? Yes. I'm sure we can ask Pat to cut some trees, right? Alright. 00:56:06.710 --> 00:56:13.710 Alderman Sanders. Yeah, my concern is it's not the one light that is not illuminating 00:56:13.710 --> 00:56:20.670 that whole block. That's what we're referring to is the reason why the request to push trees 00:56:20.670 --> 00:56:22.670 and I have a question about the trees. 00:56:22.670 --> 00:56:31.670 I think if you cut the trees back, even if you cut the trees down or cut them back, it's not going to illuminate that whole block, not that one pole. 00:56:31.670 --> 00:56:35.670 So you need at least two poles or three, maybe. 00:56:35.670 --> 00:56:36.670 I don't know. 00:56:36.670 --> 00:56:41.670 But I think it should go all the way to Chicago myself, in front of the church. 00:56:41.670 --> 00:56:49.670 But my thing is, cutting back trees is not going to cause one pole to illuminate that whole block. 00:56:49.670 --> 00:57:03.990 I will say that as I circle through the Fifth Ward, I see a lot of street lights angled 00:57:03.990 --> 00:57:08.870 down, not up. 00:57:08.870 --> 00:57:18.310 And that too makes a difference in how much it's able, the area it's able to illuminate. 00:57:18.310 --> 00:57:25.350 So I'm going to ask that that too be taken into consideration. 00:57:25.350 --> 00:57:32.830 A lot of the lights in 3rd and 5th Ward are angled downward, not upward, where they can 00:57:32.830 --> 00:57:34.630 illuminate. 00:57:34.630 --> 00:57:35.630 Thank you. 00:57:35.630 --> 00:57:44.230 If there's no further discussion, we'll move on to Department Head Reports, Finance. 00:57:44.230 --> 00:57:46.230 Nothing this evening. 00:57:46.230 --> 00:57:47.230 Yes ma'am. 00:57:47.230 --> 00:57:54.030 can we take action on this I was hoping if there was any further discussion and no one said anything I 00:57:54.030 --> 00:58:00.510 was hoping to take action on this tonight well I think it was kind of decided that we would 00:58:00.510 --> 00:58:06.430 task the some trees to be removed or trimmed back and a brighter light put in and let's see how it 00:58:06.430 --> 00:58:13.390 looks we can always talk about it once those things are done if it's not satisfactory okay 00:58:13.390 --> 00:58:20.110 I'm not all right with that, but what do I say? 00:58:20.110 --> 00:58:25.190 What do you want to do? 00:58:25.190 --> 00:58:29.190 Let's take it one step at a time and see how, if it solves the problem, if it doesn't then 00:58:29.190 --> 00:58:32.070 let's come back to the board. 00:58:32.070 --> 00:58:39.090 Mayor Miller, there's people that know this area. 00:58:39.090 --> 00:58:49.650 There's people that know the power in the angle of the light and the power in the bulb. 00:58:49.650 --> 00:58:58.310 And so you already know what it's going to take to lighten up this area and make it better. 00:58:58.310 --> 00:59:01.530 So that's all I'm asking for. 00:59:01.530 --> 00:59:11.530 So if people are committing to lighting up that area and making it better, then okay. 00:59:11.530 --> 00:59:15.950 George, did you want to say something about that? 00:59:15.950 --> 00:59:17.850 Okay, Darren. 00:59:17.850 --> 00:59:20.789 So George and I can go look at it together. 00:59:20.789 --> 00:59:24.910 We have no problem adding, you know, additional lighting if it's needed. 00:59:24.910 --> 00:59:26.730 There's different kinds of lighting. 00:59:26.730 --> 00:59:34.590 The existing lighting that ComEd utilizes on most of their poles, the new LEDs has a downward 00:59:34.590 --> 00:59:35.890 sweep on it, right? 00:59:35.890 --> 00:59:40.410 So we can buy different lights to go on poles if that's the direction of council to try 00:59:40.410 --> 00:59:41.890 to illuminate it better. 00:59:41.890 --> 00:59:45.810 And cutting trees is just a function of ordering that to be done. 00:59:45.810 --> 00:59:47.690 So we can absolutely have that done. 00:59:47.690 --> 00:59:54.410 If it's not enough, then we can investigate adding another pole to the area or maybe adding 00:59:54.410 --> 01:00:00.010 some lighting to the park, although I don't believe it's a city park. 01:00:00.010 --> 01:00:30.010 Alderman, Alderman, Alderman 01:00:30.010 --> 01:00:34.010 and others that are causing a little bit of darkness in the 01:00:34.010 --> 01:00:38.010 community or whatever the case may be. If we can do that, also 01:00:38.010 --> 01:00:42.010 in addition to what we're doing here on State and 01:00:42.010 --> 01:00:46.010 Iroquois, I think we'll get a better 01:00:46.010 --> 01:00:50.010 understanding of what's going on throughout the city itself. 01:00:50.010 --> 01:00:54.010 So, we discussed this subject 01:00:54.010 --> 01:00:58.010 I want to say maybe six months ago, and I brought 01:00:58.010 --> 01:01:20.010 We can change lights out in areas. The police chief and I sat down and targeted some areas in town. To replace the lights is roughly probably $500 a fixture plus install to change them out to a brighter fixture, something like you'd see in downtown Freeport. 01:01:20.010 --> 01:01:50.010 That's not something ComEd can support. That's something that we locally have to do. If we want to add poles and lights and tap those into the electric system, roughly that's going to cost us about $15,000 per pole to add and that's a cost to the City of Freeport because those pole placements and everything are already all negotiated out and I've talked to Georgia at length about it. They're more than willing to add them but that's a bill that we have to sustain. 01:01:50.010 --> 01:01:51.010 and others. 01:01:51.010 --> 01:01:57.090 Realistically, when we changed from an incandescent fixture, which used a lot more electricity, 01:01:57.090 --> 01:02:03.330 those had more of a bulb type of fan light, where the LEDs are more directional because 01:02:03.330 --> 01:02:05.370 they're way less wattage. 01:02:05.370 --> 01:02:08.210 So I'm not saying we can't, we just have to have direction. 01:02:08.210 --> 01:02:13.930 The last time we discussed this, and I can go back and get the date, there was no direction 01:02:13.930 --> 01:02:19.570 to do anything, so we didn't do anything with it at that time because we can't have 01:02:19.570 --> 01:02:23.210 have ComEd do it and not pay them for the work. 01:02:23.210 --> 01:02:32.270 I don't know what the city can do with switching the heads or the light fixtures. 01:02:32.270 --> 01:02:38.210 So on the ComEd-owned poles, ComEd has to change the fixtures on ComEd poles. 01:02:38.210 --> 01:02:43.650 We can buy the lights and they can do the replacements, but they're their fixtures, 01:02:43.650 --> 01:02:45.330 they're under their contracts. 01:02:45.330 --> 01:02:52.610 Okay, I just don't want this to go another six months and don't see nothing happening 01:02:52.610 --> 01:02:54.290 or nothing done. 01:02:54.290 --> 01:02:58.850 So I am asking that we move on this now. 01:02:58.850 --> 01:03:01.250 Alderman Sellers? 01:03:01.250 --> 01:03:07.130 Alderman Stacy, I totally agree with you about lighting, but that is all over Freeport. 01:03:07.130 --> 01:03:14.130 If you go down to the corner of, what is it, Ottawa and Iroquois, it's dark down, you 01:03:14.130 --> 01:03:20.290 you can't hardly see down there. If you go, if you ride down Lincoln, it's dark riding 01:03:20.290 --> 01:03:28.090 down Lincoln. If you ride down, so we need to make it where it's a whole city looking 01:03:28.090 --> 01:03:34.210 into lighting, not just one area, because to me the whole city needs more lighting. 01:03:34.210 --> 01:03:44.110 I understand what you're saying Alderman Sellers, but we have to start somewhere. We have to 01:03:44.110 --> 01:03:54.470 to start somewhere. So I brought this tonight. Rachel and I brought this tonight to the Council, 01:03:54.470 --> 01:04:01.510 hoping that we have a beginning of something wonderful and new. But we have to start somewhere. 01:04:01.510 --> 01:04:09.710 Darren, do you have any idea how many lights the City has replaced with the brighter LED? 01:04:09.710 --> 01:04:26.870 Excuse me. I believe that the only brighter LED lights in town are the ones that the city actually owns and paid for, which are through the downtown loops, because the ones that are outside of downtown are all comment owned. They're not directly ours. 01:04:26.870 --> 01:04:32.590 that being said if we want to do a light I'm gonna call it a light fixture 01:04:32.590 --> 01:04:35.390 replacement because it's not something we just change a bulb in you got to 01:04:35.390 --> 01:04:39.950 change the whole head unit then we need direction on where that money will come 01:04:39.950 --> 01:04:44.950 from out of the budget which is fine and we can move on it and I would suggest 01:04:44.950 --> 01:04:48.830 that if we are going to make some changes then we work off of Chief 01:04:48.830 --> 01:04:53.190 Shenberger's list of higher area of crime that's where we kind of started 01:04:53.190 --> 01:04:58.150 and sort of directed that before, but we've got to have a budget to purchase these fixtures 01:04:58.150 --> 01:05:00.790 out of because it will become our cost. 01:05:00.790 --> 01:05:02.790 Alderman Sanders. 01:05:02.790 --> 01:05:10.110 Yeah, I gather all of that which you just said, which is a true statement as I believe 01:05:10.110 --> 01:05:11.110 it is. 01:05:11.110 --> 01:05:19.310 But I also want, because my sister Alderman is crying about the scheduling and the planning 01:05:19.310 --> 01:05:24.230 of this project and how to get it moving, getting it off the ground. 01:05:24.230 --> 01:05:32.350 So I want Manager Boyer to give us a preview of how this is going to come about and what 01:05:32.350 --> 01:05:40.270 it's going to cost us and things of this nature because I'm thinking that his input to when 01:05:40.270 --> 01:05:47.390 this should be scheduled and done, we should be hearing it from Manager Boyer. 01:05:47.390 --> 01:05:52.350 That's how we get this thing started, that's what I'm trying to say. 01:05:52.350 --> 01:05:58.789 She wants to get it, Alderman, Stacy wants to get it started, I'm quite sure everybody 01:05:58.789 --> 01:06:04.110 in this room wants to get it started because it's a necessity, it's a necessity and we 01:06:04.110 --> 01:06:05.390 should not wait. 01:06:05.390 --> 01:06:12.289 And so I'm asking Manager Boyer if it's possible that he can start this project planning so 01:06:12.290 --> 01:06:17.970 So we can get a big view of how we're going to go about and what it's going to cost us 01:06:17.970 --> 01:06:23.810 and how we're going to plan it out for the council to understand how we're going to go 01:06:23.810 --> 01:06:27.210 about it in the community as well. 01:06:27.210 --> 01:06:37.110 So I think starting this project is definitely something that I feel that should be something 01:06:37.110 --> 01:06:38.650 you're looking into. 01:06:38.650 --> 01:06:42.130 You should look into that matter so we can get it started. 01:06:42.130 --> 01:06:48.930 Thomas, I don't want to hear her say, again, how to get it started, you know, or what should 01:06:48.930 --> 01:06:55.210 we be doing, because to me it looks like, or sound like, I don't hear no sound. 01:06:55.210 --> 01:07:00.210 I don't hear the reverberation that's supposed to be going on about, yeah, yeah, let's put 01:07:00.210 --> 01:07:05.930 more lights out there so people are not getting killed, you know, that kind of stuff. 01:07:05.930 --> 01:07:14.050 and so we need a plan and strategy, survey, all of the things that is required to make 01:07:14.050 --> 01:07:19.730 this thing happen. I may not have all the answers right now, but I'm quite sure we 01:07:19.730 --> 01:07:24.690 all sitting here collectively should be able to come up with a plan. 01:07:24.690 --> 01:07:31.250 George, did you want to add to that? 01:07:31.250 --> 01:07:36.930 Good evening, George Galrap, Freeport Residence, employed by ComEd. So, six months ago I did 01:07:36.930 --> 01:07:43.730 take a tour of the streets that Darren gave me. They are LED lights. Freeport's, I believe 01:07:43.730 --> 01:07:49.570 all Freeport lights, incandescent lights, have been replaced with LED. Now, maybe not 01:07:49.570 --> 01:07:55.850 the standard of the alums that you want to have it, so I did give Darren a cost estimate 01:08:25.850 --> 01:08:31.170 and let's do it the right way the first time. So if somebody else would like to join that 01:08:31.170 --> 01:08:36.450 tour or make suggestions, that's fine. And like Alderman Sanders said, this is not one 01:08:36.450 --> 01:08:42.170 area. I live in Catherine Drive over in Highland Heights along with Alderman Klemm and we have 01:08:42.170 --> 01:08:47.890 one street light period, single street light. The developer traded out with the city 30 01:08:47.890 --> 01:08:53.930 years ago that the homes were supposed to have a garage peak light to light the area. 01:08:53.930 --> 01:09:00.250 Hardly any do. So we'll make sure we include the entire city. But next week or this week 01:09:00.250 --> 01:09:04.250 coming up will be a tour of the Fifth Ward. Any questions? 01:09:04.250 --> 01:09:07.690 Alderman Monroe. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Since you're here, 01:09:07.690 --> 01:09:12.970 I'll ask you face to face. So northbound on 26, on the east side of the road, there's 01:09:12.970 --> 01:09:18.250 a pole that was hit by lightning, burned to the ground. The wires are all the way to the 01:09:18.250 --> 01:09:23.890 ground. Power line appears. I've been asking for over a year to get that fixed. Several 01:09:23.890 --> 01:09:29.930 people within the city administration not been fixed the other who do we call to 01:09:29.930 --> 01:09:34.970 notify of light street lights that are out and who's responsible for that pretty 01:09:34.970 --> 01:09:44.530 easy it's 1-800-Edison-1 so 1-800-Edison-1 yes so it's 1-800-334-7661 01:09:44.530 --> 01:09:50.710 or you can cheat and call me a lot quicker if you call me and the city 01:09:50.710 --> 01:09:57.950 Manager will give you my cell number, okay? Any other questions? Thank you. Thank you. 01:09:57.950 --> 01:09:59.270 You're welcome. Thank you, George. 01:09:59.270 --> 01:10:06.270 Madam Mayor, I do have a question. Not for you, Mr. Goreff. Thank you for your time. 01:10:06.270 --> 01:10:07.270 Yeah, go ahead. 01:10:07.270 --> 01:10:15.270 Okay, so my question would be for you, Darren, or Wayne, whichever one. So trimming the trees, 01:10:15.270 --> 01:10:23.270 getting a brighter bowl, what is our timeline? 01:10:23.270 --> 01:10:30.270 Trim and Trees, we can probably get done if the weather holds in the next 5 to 10 days max. 01:10:30.270 --> 01:10:35.270 Lights, I will have to see if we have anything in the inventory. If we do, we can address that. 01:10:35.270 --> 01:10:41.270 I don't know if we have any ones that are as bright as Freeport or as downtown. 01:10:41.270 --> 01:10:48.270 If not, we can order one based on supply. I would think within a couple weeks we could have that light changed out. 01:10:48.270 --> 01:10:53.350 you know shouldn't be shouldn't be that big a hassle to get done as long as 01:10:53.350 --> 01:11:02.950 that's direction we want to move yes you keep saying that why do you keep saying 01:11:02.950 --> 01:11:10.030 that I what I'm if the one at the the corner of Iroquois and state is no 01:11:10.030 --> 01:11:14.430 problem it's if we want to move further then we have to have more direction that 01:11:14.430 --> 01:11:26.910 until we do the fifth board drive-through with Mr. Gaurav, we don't know, correct? 01:11:26.910 --> 01:11:29.510 That's where it comes back to one step at a time. 01:11:29.510 --> 01:11:42.270 Yep. Exactly. Okay, we good? And I believe Finance, you said no report. Community 01:11:42.270 --> 01:11:47.370 Development. Nothing tonight Madam Mayor. Thank you. Public Works? Just one thing we 01:11:47.370 --> 01:11:53.430 have a water main break on Galena, North Galena Avenue by the McDonald's and the 01:11:53.430 --> 01:12:00.510 Lincoln Mall. We have traffic control set up at this time. Please avoid the area if 01:12:00.510 --> 01:12:05.270 at all possible till we get the area fixed. I'm not sure if we'll get working 01:12:05.270 --> 01:12:10.310 on it tomorrow or actually Wednesday. We're trying to pinpoint where the leak 01:12:10.310 --> 01:12:16.570 is before we start digging the road up. Thank you. Chief Miller. No report from fire this 01:12:16.570 --> 01:12:22.650 evening. Thank you. Chief Schaffer. I have nothing tonight. Thank you. Library. Now is 01:12:22.650 --> 01:12:27.690 the perfect time to sign up for the Library's eNewsletter and learn all about our upcoming 01:12:27.690 --> 01:12:33.510 events which include our American History lecture series, our One Book One Freeport 01:12:33.510 --> 01:12:38.570 Community Read which begins on January 25th, and we are also working on a collaboration 01:12:38.570 --> 01:12:43.530 with the Greater Freeport Partnership and the Link of Douglas Society for a Journey to Freedom, 01:12:43.530 --> 01:12:47.010 Illinois's Underground Railroad, and it's a museum exhibit. 01:12:47.010 --> 01:12:49.010 Thank you. 01:12:49.010 --> 01:12:51.010 Communication? 01:12:51.010 --> 01:12:53.010 IT? 01:12:53.010 --> 01:12:54.010 City Manager? 01:12:54.010 --> 01:12:55.010 Thank you, Your Honor. 01:12:55.010 --> 01:13:00.970 I just want to report on the successful Refresh Freeport endeavor we did this last weekend. 01:13:00.970 --> 01:13:07.410 We received, had 83 vehicles come by with over 17 tons of garbage. 01:13:07.410 --> 01:13:14.810 so that's a victory as far as I'm concerned the Gills did not anticipate anywhere near 01:13:14.810 --> 01:13:19.990 that much of a response so the way we have to look at it is this is garbage that's going 01:13:19.990 --> 01:13:24.590 to end up in the dump not on these empty lots so that's all. 01:13:24.590 --> 01:13:25.590 Thank you Mayor. 01:13:25.590 --> 01:13:26.590 Yes. 01:13:26.590 --> 01:13:27.590 Thank you to Gills' disposal. 01:13:27.590 --> 01:13:28.590 Alderman Sellers? 01:13:28.590 --> 01:13:29.590 No. 01:13:29.590 --> 01:13:30.590 Nothing. 01:13:30.590 --> 01:13:31.590 Alderman Klemm? 01:13:31.590 --> 01:13:38.390 Clem? A couple things if I could. First off, we'll have a neighborhood watch on the 28th 01:13:38.390 --> 01:13:46.910 at Schwartz Chapel. I'll get email out on that. And there's a group of concerned citizens 01:13:46.910 --> 01:13:55.570 working at the moment with an extra amount of homeless people here in the city. As we 01:13:55.570 --> 01:14:00.710 know, it's really going to get cold tonight. There's a setup at the church next door all 01:14:00.710 --> 01:14:06.590 Ready to Go. The people are looking for somebody to help man it from different churches or 01:14:06.590 --> 01:14:14.230 different organizations. So if there's anything we can do at all to help with this, you can 01:14:14.230 --> 01:14:18.070 please get ahold of me and I can pass it on, or there's a number of people that you can 01:14:18.070 --> 01:14:25.390 get ahold of. But it's really important because they have ten setups and FACC is overwhelmed 01:14:25.390 --> 01:14:30.710 I've got it at the moment and it's something we as citizens need to help everybody out with. 01:14:30.710 --> 01:14:31.710 Thank you. 01:14:31.710 --> 01:14:40.330 My number is, I'll just give it 815-978-0484 and I'll be happy to pass any information on. 01:14:40.330 --> 01:14:41.430 Thank you. 01:14:41.430 --> 01:14:42.430 Thank you. 01:14:42.430 --> 01:14:43.430 Alderman Monroe? 01:14:43.430 --> 01:14:44.430 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 01:14:44.430 --> 01:14:48.990 I'm glad we're getting to that water break that's been there for about three weeks now 01:14:48.990 --> 01:14:50.450 that's important. 01:14:50.450 --> 01:14:54.430 It's been wet for three weeks. 01:14:54.430 --> 01:15:00.870 and, you know, never mind, that's all I've got, Mayor. 01:15:00.870 --> 01:15:01.870 Thank you. 01:15:01.870 --> 01:15:02.870 Alderman Simmons? 01:15:02.870 --> 01:15:03.870 I don't have anything. 01:15:03.870 --> 01:15:04.870 Thank you. 01:15:04.870 --> 01:15:05.870 And Alderman Parker? 01:15:05.870 --> 01:15:06.870 Nothing tonight. 01:15:06.870 --> 01:15:07.870 Alderman Stake? 01:15:07.870 --> 01:15:08.870 Nothing. 01:15:08.870 --> 01:15:09.870 Alderman Shadle? 01:15:09.870 --> 01:15:10.870 Nothing tonight. 01:15:10.870 --> 01:15:11.870 Alderman Sanders? 01:15:11.870 --> 01:15:12.870 Nothing. 01:15:12.870 --> 01:15:18.070 That leaves us to public comment. 01:15:18.070 --> 01:15:22.230 We had one that signed in, Makaya Stacey. 01:15:32.030 --> 01:15:33.050 Good evening. 01:15:33.050 --> 01:15:34.590 I'm here to express my deep concern 01:15:34.590 --> 01:15:37.250 regarding the events surrounding item number nine, 01:15:37.250 --> 01:15:41.070 discussing the revisions to ordinance chapter 220, 01:15:41.070 --> 01:15:44.930 council section 220.10, rules of council, 01:15:44.930 --> 01:15:47.630 which was discussed on November 12th. 01:15:47.630 --> 01:15:51.870 It is a fact that after much conversation, Alderperson Stacy moved and Alderperson Simmons 01:15:51.870 --> 01:15:55.270 seconded a motion to move this item to December 16th. 01:15:55.270 --> 01:15:59.230 The motion was carried with full support from seven Alderpersons, including Klemm, Simmons, 01:15:59.230 --> 01:16:03.030 Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, and Sellers. 01:16:03.030 --> 01:16:06.830 It appears that the direction given by our elected Alderpersons was ignored and not respected 01:16:06.830 --> 01:16:10.510 and the item was not placed on the December 16th agenda. 01:16:10.510 --> 01:16:13.050 The people of Freeport would like to know why. 01:16:13.050 --> 01:16:16.550 Not only was this a blatant disregard for the Council's decision, but it also furthered 01:16:16.550 --> 01:16:17.550 and Z. 01:16:17.550 --> 01:16:18.550 The City Council is pleased to announce that the Public Order has been informed of the 01:16:18.550 --> 01:16:19.550 development of the Public Order by the Department of Public Administration. 01:16:19.550 --> 01:16:20.550 The Public Order has made clear that the public will be able to exercise their authority. 01:16:20.550 --> 01:16:21.550 This is a matter of course, and it is of course very important. 01:16:21.550 --> 01:16:22.550 We are also very concerned about the current administration and the current actions of 01:16:22.550 --> 01:16:23.550 the public. 01:16:23.550 --> 01:16:24.550 We are also concerned about the current administration and the current actions of the public, which 01:16:24.550 --> 01:16:27.070 seem rooted in inclusion and hate, have been designed to restrict the voice of our elected 01:16:27.070 --> 01:16:30.190 officials and, by extension, the people of Freeport. 01:16:30.190 --> 01:16:33.990 The proposal to increase fines and impose more strict rules further diminishes the public's 01:16:33.990 --> 01:16:36.350 ability to engage in local governance. 01:16:36.350 --> 01:16:41.190 We expected this Mayor to provide some type of explanation for our proposal on December 01:16:41.190 --> 01:16:42.190 16. 01:16:42.190 --> 01:16:44.070 Or did you think we would forget? 01:16:44.070 --> 01:16:45.790 The situation needs to be addressed immediately. 01:16:45.790 --> 01:16:55.790 I urge the Mayor, City Council, and the City Manager to take the necessary steps to uphold the will of the council and ensure that all items are discussed and placed on the agenda according to the proper procedures. 01:16:55.790 --> 01:17:02.790 The public's trust in this administration has been shaken and transparency must be restored. Thank you. 01:17:03.790 --> 01:17:05.790 Are there any other public comments? 01:17:05.790 --> 01:17:21.110 Branch off what I said earlier. On November 19th, when they thought that they were going 01:17:21.110 --> 01:17:27.070 to be able to knock my house down, Albers and Sons, one in my house stole a bunch of 01:17:27.070 --> 01:17:32.750 stuff, created a felony theft, and I'm trying to figure out why they was not arrested. The 01:17:32.750 --> 01:17:37.170 The only thing I could say is that Chief Shenberger told me today that he was going to still look 01:17:37.170 --> 01:17:38.290 into it. 01:17:38.290 --> 01:17:42.410 They continue to bring items every time they're spoken to. 01:17:42.410 --> 01:17:43.470 Even today I got a call. 01:17:43.470 --> 01:17:47.110 They have two of my bounce houses, commercial grade, that they keep getting. 01:17:47.110 --> 01:17:50.950 I would have been arrested the second that they thought I committed felony theft. 01:17:50.950 --> 01:17:55.150 I don't know why this is being ignored or being treated as not important. 01:17:55.150 --> 01:18:01.310 And then also, I've talked to Mayor Miller, I've talked to Rob Boyer about the direct 01:18:01.310 --> 01:18:06.510 Duckman has been aiming towards me. He actually said that he was going to knock down everything 01:18:06.510 --> 01:18:14.890 I own. On the 27th of December, I served him and Steve Cox with a stop demolition order. 01:18:14.890 --> 01:18:21.310 They tore down my house the same day. The legal is if I am filing a legal court proceeding 01:18:21.310 --> 01:18:28.510 that my house automatically halted demolition. He chose to knock it down anyway. And I just 01:18:28.510 --> 01:18:34.010 Don't Understand Why or Who's Ignoring What and Why Is He Giving So Much Power to Do What He Want? 01:18:34.010 --> 01:18:40.010 And if it wasn't part of the approval on the council member, it's 402 and 404 E. Shawnee 01:18:40.010 --> 01:18:44.010 that was not approved to get knocked down. Thank you. 01:18:44.010 --> 01:18:48.010 Are there any other public comments? 01:18:48.010 --> 01:18:54.010 Seeing none, we'll move on to Executive Session. Madam Clerk, could you please read that for the record? 01:18:54.010 --> 01:19:00.610 We have two items tonight pursuant to 5 ILCS 122 C 11 litigation when an action against 01:19:00.610 --> 01:19:04.810 effecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before 01:19:04.810 --> 01:19:10.170 a court or administration administrative tribunal or when the public body finds that an action 01:19:10.170 --> 01:19:14.410 is probable or imminent in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and 01:19:14.410 --> 01:19:20.230 entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 122 C 21 discussion of 01:19:20.230 --> 01:19:22.510 of Minutes of Meetings, lawfully closed under this act, 01:19:22.510 --> 01:19:26.410 whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes 01:19:26.410 --> 01:19:28.250 or semi-annual review of the minutes 01:19:28.250 --> 01:19:30.550 as mandated by Section 2.06. 01:19:31.530 --> 01:19:34.150 Is there a motion to enter into executive session? 01:19:34.150 --> 01:19:35.290 So moved. Second. 01:19:38.510 --> 01:19:41.050 Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Monroe, 01:19:41.050 --> 01:19:42.690 Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? 01:19:42.690 --> 01:19:43.530 Sellers? 01:19:44.510 --> 01:19:45.350 Aye. 01:19:45.350 --> 01:19:46.170 Klemm? 01:19:46.170 --> 01:19:47.010 Aye. 01:19:47.010 --> 01:19:47.850 Monroe? 01:19:47.850 --> 01:19:48.670 Aye. 01:19:48.670 --> 01:19:49.510 Simmons? 01:19:49.510 --> 01:19:52.870 Stacy, Shadle, and Sanders.