# Meeting Events

Meeting: `p1taxghar0g.city_council_meeting_1_5_2026`

Meeting date: `2026-01-05`

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 Agenda Item Number One** — Passed
  - **Summary:** A motion was made regarding the approval of the agenda.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number one is the approval of the agenda. Is there such a motion? So moved.”
  - **Evidence:** “All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=213s)

- **Approval of Minutes from December 1st and December 15th, 2025** — Passed
  - **Summary:** A motion was made to approve the minutes from council meetings held on December 1st and December 15th, 2025.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number three is approval from the minutes from the council meeting on December 1st and December 15th, 2025. Is there a motion to approve? So moved.”
  - **Evidence:** “All those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed? That motion passes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=228s)

- **Adoption of Resolution 2026-01 Authorizing Receipts of $14 million for WELT-12** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the receipt of $14 million for Well 12.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers, City Council
  - **Evidence:** “We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Klemm for the Adoption of Resolution 2026-01.”
  - **Evidence:** “Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. And Sanders? No. The resolution is adopted seven to one.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [46:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2791s)

- **Ordinance 2026.01 to the next meeting**
  - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Johnson to move Ordinance 2026.01 to the next meeting.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Johnson to move Ordinance 2026.01 to the next meeting.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2900s)

- **Entering into executive session pursuant to 5 ILCS 122C21** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion made to enter into executive session for discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under this act.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, could you please read this for the record? Just one, pursuant to 5 ILCS 122C21, discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under for this act, whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by section 2.06. Is there a motion to enter into executive?”
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. Moving motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. The motion passes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:05:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3904s)

## Procedural Actions

- **Call to Order and Invocation**
  - **Summary:** The meeting was called to order following opening remarks and a prayer.
  - **Attribution:** Mayor Jodi Miller
  - **Evidence:** “So we'll call this meeting to order. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=175s)

- **Pledge of Allegiance**
  - **Summary:** The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Alderman Sellers.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers
  - **Evidence:** “If you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Alderman Sellers. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=181s)

- **Agenda Item Two: Public Comments**
  - **Summary:** There were no public comments recorded for agenda item two.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number two is public comments, which there are none on on the agenda items.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=228s)

- **Swearing In Ceremony for Chief of Police**
  - **Summary:** Jacqueline B. Frostow was sworn in as the Chief of Police.
  - **Evidence:** “If you can please raise your right hand and repeat after me. I, Jacqueline B. Frostow. Having been appointed as the Chief of Police. In the City of Freeport. And the County of Stephenson do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Illinois and I will faithfully discharge the duties of my appointment according to the best of my ability.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [05:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=305s)

- **Moving to regular business after recognitions**
  - **Summary:** The council will move into regular business after the awards ceremony concludes.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “And then we'll move into regular business. ... And this concludes our recognitions for this evening. We'll move on to item number seven, which is the consent agenda.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [41:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2464s)

- **Consent Agenda items for approval**
  - **Summary:** The consent agenda includes approving minutes from several boards and commissions, reports, expenditures, and a resolution.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “The consent agenda consists of approving to receive in place on file, the board and commission minutes from the Billing Commission, November 13th, 2024, Zoning Board of Appeals, July 10th, 2024, Planning Commission, August 14th, and September 11th, 2025. The Freeport Public Library Board, September 10th, October 8th, 17th, 2025, the Foreign Fire Board, October 9th, 2025, the Liquor Commission, November 13th, 2025, the schedule, The regular schedule of meetings for the City of Freeport, 2026, the Greater Freeport Partnerships Monthly Report, the CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Grant, expenditures from October 31st, 25, through January 2nd, 26, also is the adoption of Resolution 202602, which was the ratifying approval of invoice from William Charles for the 2025 report, or repairs to the and in the total of $685,641.20.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [41:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2493s)

## Ordinances and Resolutions

- **Grant agreement approval for Well 12 construction**
  - **Summary:** Resolution approving a grant agreement between the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the City of Freeport regarding emerging contaminants for small communities grant for $14,063,530.48 for construction of Well 12.
  - **Attribution:** Clerk
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, could you please read this? Resolution approving a grant agreement between the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the City of Freeport regarding emerging contaminants for small communities grant for $14,063,530.48 for construction of Well 12.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [45:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2748s)

- **Amending various subsections of chapter 220 rules of council**
  - **Summary:** Ordinance amending sections related to the operation of the committee of the whole, Finance Committee of the Whole, and City Manager Recruitment Committee.
  - **Attribution:** Clerk
  - **Evidence:** “Item number nine is the first reading of ordinance 2026-01. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending various subsections of chapter 220 rules of council, the city of Freeport code of ordinances, section 220-11A-4, which is the operation of the committee of the whole, section 220-11E-5, Operation of Finance Committee of the Whole, and Section 220.11 F5, City Manager Recruitment Committee.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [46:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2803s)

- **Amendments to Chapter 220, Rules of Council regarding agenda items** — Referred
  - **Summary:** The proposed ordinance amends the language of codified ordinance to reflect that agenda items for the Committee of the Whole, Finance Committee of the Whole, and City Manager Recruitment Committee meeting shall be requested by the mayor and the city manager or two aldermen, or as referred to it by the city council.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “On June 16, 2025, Council made various revisions to Chapter 220, Rules of Council, however For not all sections governing various types of meetings were updated to reflect that two alder persons can add an agenda item. The proposed ordinance amends the language of the above-referenced codified ordinance to reflect that agenda items for the Committee of the Whole, Finance Committee of the Whole, and City Manager Recruitment Committee meeting that shall be requested by the mayor and the city manager or two aldermen, or as referred to it by the city council.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [47:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2858s)

## Projects

- **Completion of existing airport terminal building**
  - **Summary:** The current airport terminal building is long overdue for replacement and is in poor condition; completion is scheduled for 2026.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “The main number one item currently needed out there is completion of the airport terminal building. That building is already existing and built out there. It just needs to be finished off. The current building is long overdue for replacement and is getting in pretty poor condition. Currently the completion for this project, uh, is in 2026.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3045s)

- **PAPI lighting system installation**
  - **Summary:** Installation of the PAPI lighting system (precision approach path indicator lights) is slated to start in July of 2026.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “Uh, the other major project in, uh, 2026 is, uh, installation of the PAPI lighting system, uh, which stands for, uh, the precision approach path, uh, indicator lights. Uh, that project is slated for a start in July of 2026.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3045s)

- **Construction of airport storage building**
  - **Summary:** A heated storage building is needed to house all airport equipment (like plows) so the hangar space can be used for airplanes.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “Beyond that other needs that we need out there is a construction of a storage building for all the airport equipment, a heated space so we can get all the plows and all that stuff out of the heated hanger space and use that for airplanes, which it was designed for.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3045s)

- **West apron and taxiway entrance development**
  - **Summary:** Development is planned along the west apron and taxiway entrance with hangar development scheduled for the first week of October.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “Right now they have scheduled on their west apron and taxiway entrance with hanger development along that apron. The first week also in October we opened up the south South, Entrance Road again for traffic, a couple of weeks after that a crew came out and did a striping project on that road so all the striping is completed on that road.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3127s)

- **Asbestos removal from Hangar D**
  - **Summary:** All asbestos was removed from Hangar D, making it available for demolition when needed for future development.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “Moving on to mid-November, Hangar D, which is the old maintenance shop that had a crew come in and removed all the asbestos out of that building. They put their space suits on and removed all that and that building is now able to B. Demolition whenever that space is needed for future development.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [53:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3191s)

## Presentations and Reports

- **Lucinda's tenure and role**
  - **Summary:** Lucinda has been with the water and sewer department for almost 25 years.
  - **Attribution:** Lucinda
  - **Evidence:** “Good evening everyone. I am Lucinda as Michelle said and I have been with the water and sewer for almost 25 years”
  - **Source timestamp:** [12:32](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=752s)

- **Darren Steakle's community impact and service**
  - **Summary:** Darren Steakle was presented with the first Community Impact Award for his deep connection to the community and significant contributions, including involvement in the Chicago Streets Gate Project, the Well 11 project design/construction, leading the wastewater treatment plant project, and securing over $31 million in outside funding for the Well 12 project.
  - **Attribution:** Darren Steakle
  - **Evidence:** “So tonight it's my honor to present the first Community Impact Award to Darren Steakle. This award recognizes someone who works reaches far beyond the job title... He was deeply involved in the Chicago Streets Gate Project, helping to ensure it was completed in a single construction season to reduce disruption to local businesses. He played a key role in the design and construction of Well 11 project, strengthening the city's water system. He continues to lead the wastewater treatment plant project, guiding it through each phase with care and accountability. His leadership was also instrumental in securing more than 31 million dollars in outside funding for the Well 12 project which will benefit the community for generations.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [30:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1841s)

- **Chief Scott Miller's early training and experience**
  - **Summary:** Chief Miller began his career in 1981 at age 22 with the Lake Zurich Fire Department, completing EMT advanced and paramedic training through Northwest Community Hospital along with Firefighter II and III certifications.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “Chief Miller began his career in in 1981 at the age of 22 with the Lake Zurich Fire Department. Early in his service, he completed EMT advanced and paramedic training through Northwest Community Hospital along with Firefighter II and III certifications.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [36:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2174s)

- **Chief Miller's tenure at Elk Grove Village Fire Department**
  - **Summary:** In 1985, Chief Miller joined the Elk Grove Village Fire Department where he served for more than 27 years.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “In 1985, Chief Miller joined the Elk Grove Village Fire Department where he served for more than 27 years.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [37:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2266s)

- **Chief Miller's advancement at Elk Grove Village Fire Department**
  - **Summary:** During his time, Chief Miller advanced through the ranks, being promoted to Lieutenant in 1998, Battalion Chief in 2003, and Deputy Chief in 2006, and serving as Interim Fire Chief from 2011 to 2012.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “Miller. During that time, he advanced through the ranks, being promoted to Lieutenant in 1998, Battalion Chief in 2003, and Deputy Chief in 2006, and serving as Interim Fire Chief from 2011 to 2012.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2280s)

- **Chief Miller's work at Elk Grove Village Fire Department**
  - **Summary:** His work included emergency management, budgeting, purchasing, participation in regional fire and EMS oversight organizations.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “His work included emergency management, budgeting, purchasing, participation in regional fire and EMS oversight organizations.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2295s)

- **Chief Miller's arrival and first major incident in Freeport**
  - **Summary:** Chief Miller came to Freeport in 2013 with broad experience. On January 3, 2014, the department responded to two structure fires within hours of each other on West Galena Avenue and South Chicago Avenue.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “Chief Miller came to Freeport in 2013 with broad experience and a strong understanding of Department Operations. On January 3, 2014, during an extreme cold with temperatures reaching minus 21 degrees, the Department responded to two structure fires within hours of each other, one on West Galena Avenue and the other on South Chicago Avenue.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2302s)

- **Improvements during Chief Miller's tenure in Freeport**
  - **Summary:** During his tenure as the Freeport Fire Chief from 2013 to 2017 and again from 2022 to 26, Chief Miller led improvements including guiding the city through the Home Rule process, replacing outdated apparatuses, increasing staffing level.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “During his tenure as the Freeport Fire Chief from 2013 to 2017 and again from 2022 to 26, Chief Miller led many improvements. These included guiding the city through the Home Rule process, replacing outdated apparatuses, increasing staffing level”
  - **Source timestamp:** [39:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2342s)

- **Department modernization efforts by Chief Miller**
  - **Summary:** Through grants and cooperative purchasing, the department modernized turnout gear, reading equipment, radios, and communication infrastructure.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “Through grants and cooperative purchasing, the department modernized turnout gear, reading equipment, radios, and communication infrastructure.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [39:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2363s)

- **Chief Miller's advocacy for education**
  - **Summary:** He was the first chief to require new recruits to complete a full fire academy, establishing the current practice of sending all new hires to the Romeoville Fire Academy.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “He was the first chief to require new recruits to complete a full fire academy, establishing the current practice of sending all new hires to the Romeoville Fire Academy.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [39:32](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2372s)

- **Illinois Environmental Protection Agency funding for Well 12 construction**
  - **Summary:** The City of Freeport will receive a total of $31 million through forgivable loans and emerging contaminant funding, along with approximately $1 million secured with the support of Congressman Eric Sorensen.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Tonight, I am proud to announce that the City of Freeport will receive a total of $31 million through forgivable loans and emerging contaminant funding, along with approximately $1 million secured with the support of Congressman Eric Sorensen, who believes every community deserves and others access to clean drinking water.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [45:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2707s)

- **Public Works Department update on EV Chargers installations**
  - **Summary:** The final total for the EV Charger installation project was just over $800,000, and the city will receive $840,000 in forgivable grants from ComEd and CEJA, resulting in a net zero cost to Freeport.
  - **Attribution:** Public Works Department
  - **Evidence:** “I'd like to let everybody know that the final total for the project was just over $800,000. And we will be receiving $840,000 in forgivable grants from ComEd and CEJA for the project. So it will be a net zero to Freeport. Thank you.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2938s)

- **Airport facility updates (Hangar cleaning and equipment storage)**
  - **Summary:** Completed cleaning out hangars and end spaces to make room for equipment, storing all equipment and vehicles under a roof.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “We started completing, cleaning out a lot of the hangars and end spaces to make room for the equipment so that we could in turn open up a lot of space for For Hangers for Airplanes. Now all the equipment and vehicles are currently stored inside and under a roof.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3012s)

- **TIPS meeting attendance and airport improvement needs**
  - **Summary:** Attended a TIPS meeting in Chicago at the IDOT headquarters with joint attendance from IDOT Aeronautical Division and the FAA to discuss future needed projects for the airport.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “That meeting was held in Chicago at the IDOT headquarters. I was attended jointly by IDOT Aeronautical Division and the FAA. While there we discussed future needed projects for the airport for improvement.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3012s)

- **Automated Weather Observation Station (AWAS) Status**
  - **Summary:** The AWAS is back up and running after having a circuit board issue; installation required state approval and personnel from Minnesota.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “The second week of December, we finally got the AWAS back to reporting the weather over the internet. The AWAS, that's the Automated Weather Observation Station that had a circuit board that was out. It was really hard to get. It had to get approved through the state. And then a guy came down from Minnesota to install that. So that is back up and running.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [54:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3251s)

- **Airport Activity Report: Hangars**
  - **Summary:** All runnable hangars are currently leased out; some other hangars need work, which will be addressed in the spring.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “As far as the airport activity report, right now at the airport, we currently have a based aircraft right at 50 airplanes. All of the runnable hangars are currently leased out. There's a couple other ones that need some work. We'll be doing that in the spring, getting on that and getting those hangars repaired and run it back out.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [54:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3266s)

- **Airport Operations Data Improvement**
  - **Summary:** Vertower installed equipment that reads ADSB data from incoming and outgoing airplanes, allowing for more accurate operations data.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “As far as activity operations out there, we can get a lot more accurate data Now, because just this past summer, a company called Vertower installed equipment out at the airport that when airplanes come in and out, this system can read the ADSB data off the airplane so we can get a lot more accurate operations data.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [54:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3290s)

- **Support for City Pantries**
  - **Summary:** Thanking Darren and Fehr Graham for their wonderful support regarding the city's pantries.
  - **Attribution:** Loman, Stacy
  - **Evidence:** “Stacy. Yes. First, I want to say to Darren, thank you for hearing. For hearing my cry of help to the City of Freeport and the pantries. What you and Fehr Graham did was wonderful. I appreciate you. I thank you for all you do for the city.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [59:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3582s)

- **City Funding Context (Grants/Loans)**
  - **Summary:** The $31 million loan is significant because the 2026 budget was around $27 million. Fehr Graham and Mr. Steekle have brought a total of $60 million in forgivable loans and grants since 2020.
  - **Attribution:** Solomon Shadle
  - **Evidence:** “Solomon Shadle? Yes. Just want to say thanks to all the employees, especially the ones that were recognized tonight. But in total we have a quite a group of people working for us and they should all be thanked. I'd like to put this $31 million in the context a little bit. Our budget for 2026 was right for the entire city was right in the neighborhood of $27 and we got a 31 million dollar loan that's forgivable and Fehr Graham has done tremendous work. We've got totals of forgivable loans and grants from back to the year 2020 that at total $60 million that has been brought to our coffers by Fehr Graham and Mr. Steekle.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:00:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3630s)

- **Kings Day celebration invitation**
  - **Summary:** Javonte Brown invited everyone to the Kings Day celebration on Saturday, January 17th, mentioning selling a Martin Luther King program with the theme 'freedom' at the FMS Jeanette Louie Theater at 5 PM.
  - **Attribution:** Javonte Brown
  - **Evidence:** “Good evening, everyone. I'm Javonte Brown. Congratulations, Chief. I would like to invite everyone to the Kings Day celebration. I'm with the BSU for the Freeport High School. I serve as a social media manager on Saturday, January 17th. We'll be selling the Martin Luther King program. The theme is freedom at the FMS Jeanette Louie Theater at 5 PM until.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:03:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3818s)

## Metrics

- **Current airport aircraft count**
  - **Summary:** There are currently based at least 50 airplanes at the airport.
  - **Evidence:** “As far as the airport activity report, right now at the airport, we currently have a based aircraft right at 50 airplanes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [54:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3266s)

- **Total Airport Operations (Last 90 Days)**
  - **Summary:** Total operations for the quarter was 1,354 (October: 667, November: 440, December: 247).
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “So right now I have, I ran some reports in October, total operations out there was 667 in October in November was 440. And then with the weather turned bad, it slows down a lot. December was 247. So that makes for a total for the quarter of 1,354 operations.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [55:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3313s)

- **Quarterly Jet and Turbo Prop Operations**
  - **Summary:** The number of jet and turbo prop operations for the quarter was 68.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “And then I can further break that down into jet and turbo prop operations for the quarter was 68 for that.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [55:29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3329s)

## Discussion

- **Modernizing project status**
  - **Summary:** A question was raised regarding updates on modernizing, with a response stating that money is secured but work is paused due to interconnected roofs and the intention to wait until spring.
  - **Evidence:** “Sure. Just to Darren, Darren, have we heard any more on the modernizing because I know it was stopped when the government quit and all that. I just thought of that just so we all know. Sure. The money's still secured and right now we're kind of in a holding pattern because of the roofs where they're interconnected. We don't want to open up the neighboring building in the middle of winter so we intend to wait till spring to take them down but we still We'll have the DCO money to do that. The shutdown, the governmental shutdown was the delay and at that point once we got to December and we started getting the snowfall, I don't want to take the chance of damaging a neighboring building.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:04:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3857s)

## Public Comment

- **Homeless Concerns and Property Ownership Dispute**
  - **Summary:** Concern raised about the lack of care for a deceased homeless person, and questioning ownership of the property at 101 Liberty Street between the city and Elbers.
  - **Attribution:** Cheryl Altman
  - **Evidence:** “Hi, my name's Cheryl Altman. Congratulations. Hopefully you can help look out for the homeless because we just had a lady pass away and nobody really cared about her. They just froze with it, what a shame. Second of all, I'm talking about the property at 101 Liberty Street, which is claimed by the city owns it. They did own it in 2013, but in 2014, it went to Elbers property. So who really owns this and who's not telling the truth here? Kind of figure out if Elbers putting a lot of money in that building, they probably own it because to Rob and you, the city owns it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:02:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3728s)

- **Building demolition licensing violations**
  - **Summary:** A resident demanded paperwork regarding alleged violations concerning people who tore down buildings without proper licenses, referencing a potential filing action.
  - **Attribution:** Cheryl Altman
  - **Evidence:** “Also Rob, I need those papers, I don't know what you're trying to hide is because you and Wayne knew the people that tore down these buildings didn't have their license and it's a violation because they have to have their license and they did not. So if you don't want to give me these paperwork, I'll have to file and do what Akia Sanders did.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:02:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3763s)

## Proclamations and Recognitions

- **Service Recognition Award for Pat Ingram**
  - **Summary:** Pat Ingram received a service recognition award, marking Ken Wilkin's 20th year recognition (Note: The speaker mentions 'Ken' but the award is listed under Pat Ingram).
  - **Evidence:** “Next we have a service recognition award. Pat Ingram. I'm Ken Wilkin. This is Ken's 20th year recognition.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [08:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=506s)

- **Utility Employee of the Year Award**
  - **Summary:** Lucinda Lenore was named Utility Employee of the Year for her work in the Water and Sewer Billing Office.
  - **Evidence:** “And this year's Utility Employee of the Year, Lucinda Lenore. She exemplifies that role in every possible way.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [10:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=633s)

- **Utility Employee of the Year Award**
  - **Summary:** Lucinda Lenore was honored as Utility Employee of the Year for her outstanding performance and dedication.
  - **Evidence:** “For her outstanding performance, unwavering dedication, and positive impact on both our customers and our team, it is with great pride that we honor Lucinda Lenore as our Utility Employee of the Year. Please join me in congratulating and thanking Lucinda for her exceptional service.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [12:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=735s)

- **Todd Marsh Employee of the Year Award**
  - **Summary:** Todd Marsh was recognized as the street department employee of the year.
  - **Attribution:** Pat
  - **Evidence:** “Pat. I'd like to bring Todd Marsh up. Todd Marsh is our street department employee of the year.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:16](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=856s)

- **Tiffany Bender Honorable Mention**
  - **Summary:** Tiffany Bender received an honorable mention for Public Works Street Department.
  - **Evidence:** “You good? Tiffany Bender. She's our public works street department, honorable mention.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [16:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=963s)

- **Blaine Strickwall Honorable Mention**
  - **Summary:** Blaine Strickwall received an honorable mention for Public Works Utility.
  - **Evidence:** “I'd also like to call up Blaine Strickwall. He's our public works utility, honorable mention.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [17:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1066s)

- **Penn and Sanjay Summer Help Recognition**
  - **Summary:** Penn and Sanjay were recognized for their work on nuisance permits and city lots during the summer.
  - **Evidence:** “I'd like to call Sanjay up and Ted these are our certificate of recognition for all you guys do for our summer help Penn and Sanjay, they're our mowing crew in the summer. They do all the nuisance permits, nuisance lots, all the city lots.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [18:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1122s)

- **Katie Smith Honorable Mention**
  - **Summary:** Katie Smith received an honorable mention for exceptional dedication and service as an administrative assistant in Community Development.
  - **Attribution:** Gertrude
  - **Evidence:** “I get the honor to introduce Katie Smith to you guys. Most of Katie received an honorable mention for Employee of the Year in recognition of her exceptional dedication and service as an administrative assistant here in the Community Development Department within City Hall.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [20:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1218s)

- **Katie's assistance with community development and city services**
  - **Summary:** Katie provides clear guidance, assists coworkers with public hearings, uses Spanish-speaking skills to ensure everyone is heard, and brings professionalism and kindness to the city of Freeport.
  - **Attribution:** Amanda
  - **Evidence:** “Katie constantly answers questions with patience, provides clear and helpful guidance, and goes above and beyond to help individuals navigate the community development process and the city services. She's a tremendous support to her coworkers, assisting with public hearings, and always willing to lend a helping hand to make everybody's day run a little smoother, especially mine. Katie uses her Spanish-speaking skills to ensure that everyone has a voice here and feels heard. Her professionalism, kindness, and positive attitude makes her a true joy to work with. Thank you, Katie, for the care and the heart that you bring to the city of Freeport. Thank you so much.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [21:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1290s)

- **Morgan Cook - Library Employee of the Year**
  - **Summary:** Morgan Cook is being recognized as the library employee of the year, celebrating her five-year anniversary in March and providing valuable service in technical services, customer service at adult/circulation desks, and Youth Services.
  - **Attribution:** Amanda
  - **Evidence:** “It is my privilege to introduce this year's library employee of the year, Morgan Cook. Morgan will be celebrating her five-year anniversary at the library this March. Morgan is a valuable part of the library team in many ways. She works hard behind the scenes in technical services, mending items that come back damaged and discarding our withdrawn books. Morgan also offers fantastic customer service to all our patrons. Most often you'll see her at the adult or circulation desks, but she also does a great job in the Youth Services department. Morgan is always happy to help out when needed as an extra set of hands at a program like last year's New Year's Eve party. Morgan's favorite part of the job is helping the variety of patrons that come to the library each day. Congratulations, Morgan, and thank you for your hard work and dedication to the library.”

- **Jabriah Pearson - City Hall Employee of the Year Award**
  - **Summary:** Jabriah Pearson is being presented with the City Hall Employee of the Year Award for her contributions, curiosity, humility, determination, and ability to bring calm to tense moments.
  - **Evidence:** “So it is with great pleasure that I present Jabriah Pearson, the Deputy City Clerk for the City Hall Employee of the Year Award. Although Jabriah joined and her team a little over a year ago. It is difficult to imagine our office without her. She has quickly become an irreplaceable part of our daily operations and her contributions shine through in both the work she does and the way she makes those around her feel. From day one, Jabria approached the role with curiosity, humility and determination. She learned the responsibility of the clerk's office with impressive speed. Not only absorbing and her willingness to work hard, step in wherever needed, and take initiative, reflects a level of dedication that elevates our entire team. What truly sets Debrea apart is her kindness, her professionalism, under grace. She consistently treats every resident with patience and respect, and her natural deescalation skills help her turn difficult Jabria brings calm to tense moments, clarity to confusing situations, and warmth to every conversation. She embodies what public service should be like, accessible, compassionate, and community-minded. Her commitment extends beyond her desk. Jabria's appointment to the Arts and Culture Commission is a testament to her character and her desire to contribute to the city in meaningful ways. She leads not with position, but with presence, dependable, thoughtful, and steady in every task that she undertakes. DeBria is reliable, calm, and quietly powerful in a way she supports her co-workers and the public. In such a short time, she has made a lasting impact on our office, our residents, and the culture of City Hall. We are better because she is here. For all these reasons, and with a heartfelt appreciation, I am proud to present Jabria Pearson with the City Hall Employee of the Year. Her work, character, and spirit exemplifies is the very best of public service.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [23:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1385s)

- **Michelle Richter - Department Head of the Year Award**
  - **Summary:** Michelle Richter is receiving the City of Freeport's Finance Director award for Department Head of the Year for the second time, recognizing consistent performance and ethical public service.
  - **Evidence:** “Tonight is my privilege to recognize Michelle Richter, the City of Freeport's Finance Director, as Department Head of the Year. This award is especially meaningful because Michelle is receiving it for the second time with her first recognition in 2019. That's been a couple days ago. Yeah, a couple city managers too. That reflects consistent performance over time and the trust she has earned across the organization. As Finance Director, Michelle holds a responsibility that reaches every part of the city government. She manages public funds with care and understanding, and these resources belong to the residents and businesses of Freeport. In doing so, she reflects the principles of the Illinois Governmental Finance Officers Association, also known as IGFOA. I. G. F. O. A. Is a professional organization that supports government finance officers through education, best practices, and strong ethical framework for public financial management. The I. G. F. O. A. Code of Ethics calls on finance professionals to act with integrity, to be accountable to the public, and to ensure transparency in financial reporting. Michelle demonstrates all of these principles. She provides clear and accurate financial information so that elected officials and department leaders can make informed decisions Huffins. Michelle also supports those around her. She invests in her team, shares her knowledge, and works collaboratively with colleagues across the organization. She approaches difficult decisions with clarity and follows through on her commitments. And while Michelle is known for her precision and discipline, those who know her well know that there's a lighter side. She brings calm to stressful moments, and a quiet sense of humor when it's needed most, and a steady presence that reminds everyone that good work can be done without unnecessary drama. Much of Michelle's work happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout the city. The city of Freeport operates more effectively because of her leadership and her commitment to ethical public service. Tonight, we recognize the department head who has earned respect through her work, her dedication to doing things the right way, and being named department head of the year for a second time is a meaningful achievement.”

- **Pat Ingram - Honorable Mention for Superintendent Operations of the Year**
  - **Summary:** Pat Ingram is receiving an honorable mention for Superintendent Operations of the Year.
  - **Evidence:** “Also, we have an honorable mention, as if you haven't seen enough of him already. This is for Pat Ingram. It's my honor to recognize Pat Ingram with honorable mention for Superintendent Operations of the Year.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [29:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1743s)

- **Michelle's leadership and service to the city**
  - **Summary:** Michelle was recognized for her leadership and commitment to ethical public service; she is named department head of the year for a second time.
  - **Attribution:** Michelle
  - **Evidence:** “Tonight, we recognize the department head who has earned respect through her work, her dedication to doing things the right way, and being named department head of the year for a second time is a meaningful achievement. Thank you, Michelle.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [28:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1729s)

- **Pat Ingram's service as Superintendent Operations**
  - **Summary:** Pat Ingram received honorable mention for Superintendent Operations of the Year for demonstrating steady leadership, accountability, and commitment to getting work done right.
  - **Attribution:** Pat Ingram
  - **Evidence:** “Also, we have an honorable mention, as if you haven't seen enough of him already. This is for Pat Ingram. It's my honor to recognize Pat Ingram with honorable mention for Superintendent Operations of the Year. Pat demonstrates steady leadership, accountability, and a clear commitment to getting work done right.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [29:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=1743s)

- **Chris Shenberger's career service to Freeport Police Department**
  - **Summary:** Chris Shenberger received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his over 20 years of service, during which he held nearly every major role in the department and focused on building a stronger department.
  - **Attribution:** Chris Shenberger
  - **Evidence:** “So tonight it's an honor to present a lifetime achievement award to Chris Shenberger, retired chief of police for the Freeport Police Department... Tonight we recognize a career built on service and responsibility. Chris Shenberger, thank you for your service to the City of Freeport and congratulations on this Lifetime Award.”

- **Chris Shenberger's service to the City of Freeport**
  - **Summary:** Chris Shenberger received a Lifetime Award for his service.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “Chris Shenberger leaves behind a department that is stronger and a community that is safer because of his work. Chris Shenberger, thank you for your service to the City of Freeport and congratulations on this Lifetime Award.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [35:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2107s)

- **Chief Scott Miller's career service**
  - **Summary:** Chief Scott Miller's career reflects more than four decades of service leadership and commitment to the fire service and communities he's served.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “Tonight's bittersweet. So Chief Scott Miller's career reflects more than four decades of service leadership and commitment to the fire service and communities he's served.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [36:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2174s)

- **Lifetime Achievement Award for Chief Scott Miller**
  - **Summary:** The award recognizes a career built on service, trust, and commitment. The city of Freeport is stronger because of this leadership.
  - **Attribution:** City Council
  - **Evidence:** “This lifetime achievement award recognizes a career built on service, trust, and commitment. The city of Freeport is stronger because of this leadership and we are grateful for his enduring contributions.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [39:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2394s)

- **Grant Funding for Well 12**
  - **Summary:** Congratulations on a successful grant combination of grants and Forgivable Loans for Well 12.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Klemm
  - **Evidence:** “When you count a service or a plane coming in, you mentioned those figures, those figures I just want to congratulate the team on that successful grant, combination of grants and Forgivable Loans for Well 12.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [56:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3373s)

- **Chiefs' Service and Retirement**
  - **Summary:** Congratulations to Chief Frosto for commitment and new appointment, and to Chief Miller on retirement.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Klemm
  - **Evidence:** “I would like to congratulate both of our Chiefs, Chief Frosto, for your commitment to the city and your new appointment and Chief Miller on your retirement. Happy for you but sad for us.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [56:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3373s)

- **Upcoming Council Meeting Date Change**
  - **Summary:** The next regular council meeting will be on Tuesday, January 20th, not Monday the 19th. City Hall will be closed in honor of Martin Luther King Day.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Klemm
  - **Evidence:** “And then also to remind the council that our next regular council meeting will be on Tuesday, January 20th, not Monday. The 19th City Hall will be Close in honor of Martin Luther King Day.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [56:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3419s)

- **Community Service and Grant Funding**
  - **Summary:** Thank you to Alderman Sellers for being a part of the community, and recognition for $31 million in grant funding for water.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Klemm
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sellers. I just want to say thank you also for being a part of our community. And I'll also say to Chief, we're going to miss you. So thank you for all your service. And then I also want to say great job for the $31 million in the grant for the water.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3433s)

- **Neighborhood Watch Date Confirmation**
  - **Summary:** The Neighborhood Watch will remain on the fourth Tuesday of this month.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Klemm
  - **Evidence:** “Yeah. Just like to say the Neighborhood Watch will remain the same date this month. It'll be the fourth Tuesday of this month.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3454s)

- **Police Chief Welcome and Retirement Wishes**
  - **Summary:** Welcome to the new police chief, and best wishes for retirement to Chief Miller.
  - **Attribution:** Oliver Johnson
  - **Evidence:** “Oliver Johnson. Yeah, I'd like to say welcome to our new police chief. I enjoyed your speech. Thank you very much. And for you, Chief Miller, we'll miss you.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3521s)

- **Honorees Recognition and New Year Wishes**
  - **Summary:** Congratulations to everyone honored for hard work, dedication, and integrity; wishing a prosperous and peaceful New Year.
  - **Attribution:** Oliver Johnson
  - **Evidence:** “And I'd also like to congratulate everyone that was honored tonight. I just think it's wonderful to have people honored for their hard work and their dedication and their integrity, so congratulations to all of those. And just wanted to say Happy New Year to everyone, and I declare it will be a prosperous and new year with unity and peace.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3538s)

- **Chief's Departure Wishes**
  - **Summary:** Expressing that the departing Chief will be missed.
  - **Attribution:** Loman, Simmons
  - **Evidence:** “Loman, Simmons? Well, just thank you, Chief, I'm going to miss you. That's all. Thank you.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [59:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3558s)

- **Chief Welcome and Retirement Wishes**
  - **Summary:** Echoing thanks for both Chiefs; welcoming the new Chief and wishing retirement well.
  - **Attribution:** Loman, Parker
  - **Evidence:** “Loman, Parker? Yeah. Just want to echo what everyone else has said about both Chiefs. Welcome to the new Chief and enjoy your retirement. It's a great thing. Thank you. I just wanted to repeat what everyone else has said, so thank you.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [59:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3566s)

## Follow-ups

- **Taxi lights rehabilitation and LED conversion timeline**
  - **Summary:** The plan includes current rehab of taxi lights and conversion to LED in 2027.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “Going forward on the tips down the road for 27, right now in the plan is current for rehab of the taxi lights and conversion over to LED.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [51:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3117s)

- **Field farm modernization project timeline**
  - **Summary:** A field farm modernization project is scheduled for 2028.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “In 28. It's scheduled for a field farm modernization project and then a little further down the road in 29.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3127s)

- **Street lighting installation at South Entrance Road**
  - **Summary:** Eight light poles are planned for installation, with two older ones to be removed. New pole deliveries are scheduled for late January, and installation will occur in the spring.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “The plan is for eight light poles to be installed and then two older ones to be removed. Those poles have been on backorder and are scheduled for delivery late in January and then the installation will occur in the spring when the weather gets nicer.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3174s)

- **Automated Weather Observation Station (AWAS) repair**
  - **Summary:** The AWAS, which had an out circuit board, was repaired after state approval and installation by a technician from Minnesota.
  - **Attribution:** Airport
  - **Evidence:** “The second week of December, we finally got the AWAS back to reporting the weather over the internet. The AWAS, that's the Automated Weather Observation Station that had a circuit board that was out. It was really hard to get. It had to get approved through the state. And then a guy came down from Minnesota to install that. So that is back up and running.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [54:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3251s)

- **Illinois Battery Recycling Law Compliance**
  - **Summary:** Need to look into where batteries can be recycled, as a new Illinois law prohibits throwing them away, and the Chicago Tribune noted no place was available in Freeport.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Klemm
  - **Evidence:** “One thing came up today. Also congratulations on the funding. We really, really appreciate that. Congratulations to both chiefs. Great luck and family you have here. Nice warm dog come out. That was very nice. One thing somebody brought to my attention today just to put into the things coming up, one of the new laws in the state Illinois was that you can't throw away batteries anymore. They have to be Recycle, and according to the Chicago Tribune that where it listed it had it there wasn't any place available in Freeport. So just something we're going to need to take a look into.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=3489s)

## Attendance

- **Roll Call for Council Members**
  - **Summary:** Council members were called to the roll and confirmed present.
  - **Attribution:** Madam Clerk
  - **Evidence:** “Mayor Miller? Here. Alderpersons, Klemm? Here. Johnson? Here. Simmons? Here. Parker? Here. Stacy? Here.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=181s)

## Other

- **Illinois Environmental Protection Agency grants for Freeport water system**
  - **Summary:** Announcement regarding EPA awards totaling $31 million in grants and forgivable loans for the construction of well number 12.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Item number eight is an announcement concerning the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency towards awards totaling 31 million dollars in grants and forgivable loans for the construction of well number 12.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [43:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1TAXghAr0g&t=2608s)