# Meeting Events Meeting: `qod_fj1btk0.city_council_meeting_6_16_2025` Meeting date: `2025-06-16` 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 the agenda** — Passed - **Summary:** Motion to approve the agenda. - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle - **Evidence:** “Item number one is the approval of the agenda. Is there such a motion? So moved.” - **Evidence:** “Second. Schaefer, and Alfreida Schaefer. Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes.” - **Source timestamp:** [03:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=217s) - **Approval of Consent Agenda items** — Passed - **Summary:** Motion to approve the consent agenda items was made by Alderman Shadle and seconded by Alderman Sellers. - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.” - **Evidence:** “Johnson? Yeah, aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The motion passes 8-0.” - **Source timestamp:** [16:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=988s) - **Appointment consideration** - **Summary:** A motion to approve an appointment was made by Alderman Sellers and seconded by Alderman Shadle. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “Item number four is an appointment. Could you please read this? And Knapp. » Is there a motion to approve? » Second. » A motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.” - **Source timestamp:** [16:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1018s) - **Amendment to placing items on agenda (Ordinance 2025 37)** - **Summary:** Motion by Alderman Johnson to amend section 220.10 subparagraph 29 to allow two aldermen to place an item on the agenda provided they give a memo with that agenda item. - **Attribution:** Alderman Johnson - **Evidence:** “Alderman Johnson proposed to change that language to say that two aldermen could still place Johnson.” - **Source timestamp:** [30:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1844s) - **Referral of agenda amendment motion** - **Summary:** Motion by Alderman Simmons to refer the motion regarding placing items on the agenda to the Committee of the Whole. - **Attribution:** Alderman Simmons - **Evidence:** “and then Alderman Simmons made a motion to refer that motion to the Committee of the Whole last week.” - **Source timestamp:** [30:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1849s) - **Amendment changing representation to two aldermen** — Passed - **Summary:** The motion passing the amendment was voted on, resulting in a 6-2 vote. - **Evidence:** “The motion passes 6-0 on the amendment only. 6-2.6-2. I meant 2.” - **Source timestamp:** [45:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2755s) - **Amendment to order of business ordinance section 220-10-10** - **Summary:** A motion was made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Johnson, to amend the portion concerning the order of business. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “So moved. I second. So we have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Johnson, to amend that portion.” - **Evidence:** “So we have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Johnson, to amend that portion.” - **Source timestamp:** [50:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3042s) - **amendment to update order of business** — Passed - **Summary:** The amendment updating the order of business passed six to two. - **Attribution:** Madam Clerk - **Evidence:** “Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? And just that amendment passes six to two.” - **Source timestamp:** [53:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3182s) - **amendment to speaking time limit (Item 4)** - **Summary:** Alderman Johnson moved to amend the ordinance regarding council speaking turns from two minutes to three minutes. - **Attribution:** Alderman Johnson - **Evidence:** “On number four, I would like to amend it where it says two minutes. I would like to amend that to say three minutes because we give the public three minutes. We should have three minutes as well.” - **Evidence:** “This ordinance also provides that each of the two turns is limited to three minutes is what I wanted to say. The three minutes can be extended by a majority vote of council.” - **Source timestamp:** [53:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3182s) - **Time limit for council speaking turns** - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Johnson to amend the ordinance limiting each member's two turns to three minutes. - **Evidence:** “We have a motion made by Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Sellers to amend as stated discussion on that.” - **Source timestamp:** [54:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3298s) - **Amendment to time limit from 3 to 5 minutes** - **Summary:** Motion proposed by Alderman Simmons to amend the time limit from three minutes to five minutes. - **Evidence:** “Are you proposing an amendment to change the three to a five?” - **Source timestamp:** [56:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3396s) - **Amendment to ordinance time limit** - **Summary:** Motion by Alderman Johnson to change the two minutes to four minutes. - **Evidence:** “so your motion then, you're changing your motion, your original motion from A change from two minutes to four minutes. Correct.” - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sellers, are you willing to amend your second to reflect four minutes? Yes.” - **Source timestamp:** [57:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3460s) - **Changing section 8, number 15, speaking twice time limit** — Passed - **Summary:** Vote on changing section 8, number 15, to state not to exceed four minutes, speaking twice. - **Evidence:** “Well, if there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll on changing section 8, number 15, to state not to exceed four minutes, speaking twice. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye.” - **Source timestamp:** [58:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3497s) - **Passing the entire package of rules of counsel** — Passed - **Summary:** Vote on changing the ordinance for the entire package of rules of counsel. - **Evidence:** “Johnson? aye Simmons? no Parker? aye Stacy? no Shadel? aye Sanders? no Sellers? aye and Klemm the The ordinance passes five to three as amended.” - **Source timestamp:** [58:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3529s) - **Amendment to rules of counsel package** — Passed - **Summary:** The amendment passes six to two. - **Evidence:** “Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. That amendment passes six to two.” - **Source timestamp:** [58:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3518s) - **Ordinance package rules of counsel** — Passed - **Summary:** The ordinance passes five to three as amended. - **Evidence:** “Sellers aye and Klemm the The ordinance passes five to three as amended.” - **Source timestamp:** [58:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3529s) - **Move Ordinance 2025-39 to next meeting** - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers. - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to move Ordinance 2025-39 onto the next meeting?” - **Evidence:** “Second. Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:01:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3679s) - **Censure Resolution for Stacy's Behavior** - **Summary:** Motion to approve a resolution imposing censure on all persons, specifically naming Stacy, for behavior on May 19th, 2025, including unexcused and deliberate absenteeism and participating in a Deliberate and Actual Conspiracy to stop council business. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “There is no absolute proof that Simmons and Sanders were a part of this conspiracy and therefore should be removed from this resolution for the reasons I am making for these reasons I am making a motion to approve a resolution imposing censure on all the person Stacy for her behavior on May 19th 2025 including unexcused and deliberate absenteeism and participating in a Deliberate and Actual Conspiracy to stop this council from doing business” - **Source timestamp:** [01:06:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4006s) - **Seconding the Censure Motion** - **Summary:** The motion to approve censure was seconded. - **Evidence:** “So you made that motion is there a second? I'll second it.” - **Review flags:** unattached_second - **Source timestamp:** [01:07:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4051s) - **Motion to Amend Censure Resolution** - **Summary:** Alderman Shadle moved to amend his original motion by removing Alderman Sanders and Alderman Simmons from the censure motion. - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle - **Evidence:** “Alderman Shadle is yours your motion now technically a motion to amend your original motion to Your amendment now is to remove Alderman Sanders and remove Alderman Simmons from the censure motion, correct?” - **Source timestamp:** [01:07:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4051s) - **Amendment to Censure Resolution** — Approved - **Summary:** The amendment removing Alderman Sanders and Alderman Simmons from the censure resolution was approved. - **Evidence:** “Johnson, Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The amendment is approved 5-3.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:09:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4187s) - **Motion to postpone discussion on tabling motion indefinitely** — Passed - **Summary:** The motion to postpone indefinitely passed. - **Evidence:** “The motion to postpone indefinitely passes 6 to 2.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:14:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4495s) - **Adoption of resolution regarding vendor payments** - **Summary:** A motion was made to adopt the resolution, seconded by Alderman Sellers. - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to adopt this resolution? Shall move. Second. A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:19:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4763s) - **Adoption of resolution regarding vendor payments** — Adopted - **Summary:** The resolution was adopted with a vote count of 8 to 0. - **Attribution:** City Council - **Evidence:** “Johnson. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye. Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. And Klemm. The resolution is adopted 8 to 0.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:24:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5047s) - **Motion to adjourn meeting** - **Summary:** Vote taken on the motion to adjourn. - **Evidence:** “All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:54:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6867s) ## Procedural Actions - **Calling meeting to order and taking roll call** - **Summary:** The Mayor called the meeting to order and a roll call was taken for several council members. - **Attribution:** Mayor Miller - **Evidence:** “So now we'll officially call this meeting to order, Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? Mayor Miller? Here. Alderpersons, Klemm? Here. Monroe? Whoa, excuse me. Johnson? Here. Simmons? Here. Parker? Here. Stacy? Here. Shadle? Here.” - **Source timestamp:** [02:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=173s) - **Consent Agenda consideration** - **Summary:** The consent agenda was considered routine in nature for action by one motion unless a member wished to remove items for further discussion. - **Evidence:** “Move on to item number three, which is the consent agenda. The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion unless a member of council would like to have something removed for further discussion.” - **Source timestamp:** [15:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=947s) - **Second reading of ordinance 2025 37 amending chapter 220 council section 220 10 rules of council and section 220** - **Summary:** The second reading of ordinance 2025 37, which amends the rules of council. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “Number six is the second reading of ordinance 2025 37 could you please read this ordinance amending chapter 220 council section 220 10 rules of council and section 220 So this is up for second reading as well at the last city council meeting.” - **Source timestamp:** [29:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1785s) - **Request to repeat amendment details** - **Summary:** A request was made for the clerk to repeat the details of the amendment. - **Evidence:** “Could you just repeat it again? It's just to change it back to the two?” - **Source timestamp:** [45:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2738s) - **Discussion following ordinance amendment** - **Summary:** A speaker inquired about further discussion regarding the ordinance with the amendment included. - **Evidence:** “So now before you is the ordinance with that amendment in it. So further discussion, Madam, would you like to talk about your piece?” - **Source timestamp:** [46:16](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2776s) - **Ordinance 2025-39 first reading** - **Summary:** First reading of ordinance 2025-39. - **Evidence:** “Item number seven is the first reading of ordinance 2025-39. Could you please read this?” - **Source timestamp:** [59:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3568s) - **Adoption of Resolution 2025-66** - **Summary:** Moving to item number eight for the adoption of resolution 2025-66. - **Evidence:** “If there's no further discussion, on to item number eight, which is the adoption of resolution 2025-66. Could you please read this?” - **Source timestamp:** [01:04:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3886s) - **Seconding Amendment Motion** - **Summary:** Alderman Klemm seconded the amendment. - **Evidence:** “And then, Alderman Klemm, you are the second on this amendment, correct? Correct.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:08:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4100s) - **Motion to postpone discussion on tabling motion indefinitely** - **Summary:** A motion was made and seconded to table the item indefinitely. - **Evidence:** “I add indefinitely. Got it, okay. And John. So, I think that's my second. I didn't clarify that your second is to table indefinitely.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:13:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4438s) - **Public comment item** - **Summary:** The council moved on to item number 14, public comment. - **Attribution:** Klemm - **Evidence:** “We'll move on to item number 14, which is public comment. Are there any public comments?” - **Source timestamp:** [01:34:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5676s) - **Motion to adjourn meeting** - **Summary:** A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the council meeting. - **Evidence:** “If there's no further public comment, I will entertain a motion for adjournment. So moved. Motion made by Shadle, seconded by Parker.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:54:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6857s) ## Financial and Contract Events - **Consent Agenda items: Minutes, Reports, Bills, Pay Rule** - **Summary:** The consent agenda included approving Board and Commission Minutes from the Zoning Board of Appeals dated May 1st, 2025; Building Permit and Fire Department Reports May 2025; Finance Bills payable in the total of $1,125,210.63; and Approval of Pay Rule for Pay Period ending May 31st, 2025 in the total of $673,289.80. - **Evidence:** “The consent agenda consists of approving to receive and placed on file. The Board and Commission Minutes from the Zoning Board of Appeals dated May 1st, 2025. The Building Permit and Fire Department Reports May 2025. The Finance Bills payable in the total of $1,125,210.63 and the Approval of Pay Rule for Pay Period ending May 31st, 2025 in the total of $673,289.80.” - **Source timestamp:** [16:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=961s) ## Projects - **Road construction scope for summer** - **Summary:** The road construction taking place for the rest of the summer is estimated to cost about $6.7 million. - **Attribution:** Public Works - **Evidence:** “So as we stated last week, about $6.7 million with the road construction that will be taking place for the rest of the summer.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:25:29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5129s) ## Presentations and Reports - **Rate adjustment proposal methodology** - **Summary:** Director Richter stated she is proposing a decrease in the current rate, based on projecting five years of expenses and calculating rates for trash charges. - **Attribution:** Director Richter - **Evidence:** “So actually, I'm not increasing. I am decreasing the rate that is in the ordinance right now. So I'm making it less. So in order to come up with these rates that I'm proposing, I had to project out the next five years of expenses in this fund and then figure out how many people are paying for trash charges in the city of Freeport and come up with a rate.” - **Source timestamp:** [21:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1288s) - **Garbage rate ordinance status** - **Summary:** Attorney Zito clarified that current garbage rates are set by an ordinance, and Director Richter proposes lowering the fee because expenses are being collected more than needed. - **Attribution:** Attorney Zito - **Evidence:** “So our current garbage rates that get charged to the citizens, it's set forth in an ordinance and that's a set dollar amount. What Director Richter has determined in looking at the expenses is that we're collecting more Winslow. So she's actually proposing to lower the garbage fee to everybody because we don't need to collect this much money to cover our expenses. And that's what this ordinance, that's before the council.” - **Source timestamp:** [25:21](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1521s) - **Refresh Freeport debris collection success** - **Summary:** The Refresh Freeport has been mostly residential stuff and was managed by Gills, reporting success with household debris. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “To my knowledge, the Refresh Freeport has been mostly residential stuff and Gills has been managing it, and thank you to all of you for watching. We had a lot of great people watching for a lot of commercial debris or other things. So to my knowledge, it's been very successful and we have not been reported back that it's been crazy. And actually, there's been a ton of mattresses that have been brought in through Refresh Report, which is nice to see.” - **Source timestamp:** [28:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1686s) - **Ordinance placement on agenda** - **Summary:** The item was placed on a city council agenda and subsequently motioned and seconded for consideration. - **Evidence:** “So this item, this ordinance was placed on a city council agenda. Yep. And so then there was a motion in second to put it on the floor. So to Alderman motioned and seconded it.” - **Source timestamp:** [37:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2240s) - **Order of business clarification regarding outdated references** - **Summary:** The clerk explained that the previous order of business is outdated because it references committees that no longer stand since the council structure changed to seven aldermen and aldermen at large. - **Attribution:** Clerk - **Evidence:** “Yes, the order of business is covered under 220-10-10 or section 7 of ordinance 2025-37. The previous order of business is outdated, it references committees that no longer stand since we've gone to the seven aldermen and the aldermen at large.” - **Source timestamp:** [46:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2813s) - **Proposed additions to order of business** - **Summary:** The clerk detailed proposed insertions for informational presentations (like awarding the American Water Works Association) and appointments, which are not in the old listing. - **Attribution:** Clerk - **Evidence:** “So there is a proposed insert of informational presentations. And Attorney Zito, I gave you that one with, did not give you that one with the red marked up. So informational presentations would be like the awarding of the American Water Works Association. We have the auditors coming in soon. So those types of informational presentations. Also, something we do on the agenda is appointments.” - **Source timestamp:** [47:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2861s) - **Ceremonial presentation details** - **Summary:** The clerk clarified that a ceremonial presentation includes proclamations, swearing ins, promotions, and recognition of service awards, all without requiring a vote. - **Attribution:** Clerk - **Evidence:** “And then we've also proposed a ceremonial presentation and that would be our proclamations and things of that nature where a vote is not required. It could be, it would be, I have it. So that would include things like proclamations, swearing ins, promotions, recognition of service awards, all those things that there's no vote on.” - **Source timestamp:** [48:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2920s) - **Ordinance approving zoning map amendment at 1500 Southwest Avenue** - **Summary:** The ordinance approves a zoning map change from B11 restricted retail business to B21 limited service business district for 1500 Southwest Avenue. - **Attribution:** Elizabeth Staff - **Evidence:** “Ordinance approving zoning map amendment at 1500 Southwest Avenue submitted by REA for asset LLC to examine the proposed zoning map change from a B11 restricted retail business. One one restricted retail business to a b2 one limited service business district Elizabeth Staff received a zoning map amendment for 1500 Southwest Avenue Freeport, Illinois, that's the Cubs shopping plaza Brown's shoe stores fifth third the petitioners requesting approval of a zoning map amendment The owner of the properties are looking to make the tenant space more attractive allowing for a greater variety of uses The tenant is looking to occupy the vacant space, intending to open up a gym. The existing uses of the nearby properties are similar in use. They're either zoned more intensely as B21 or B3, so this is the lowest zoned one in the district. There's Southwest Corridor has numerous shopping plazas and there's other gyms in the district along with athletic and recreational fields right in the district as well. On June 12th, I'm sorry, on June 5th, 2025, the Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval of a vote by five yeas, zero nays, and zero abstentions. On June 12th, 2025, the Planning Commission also recommended approval by a vote of six yeas, zero nays, and zero abstentions. Staff did review LaSalle Sinclair factors and recommends the zoning map amendment for 1500 Southwest Avenue from a B11 restricted retail Business to a B21 Limited Service Business District area.” - **Source timestamp:** [59:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3577s) - **Ordinance 2025-39 zoning map amendment details clarification** - **Summary:** Clarification that the property owner approached the city with tenants needing rezoning for a gym, requiring B-2-1 zoning. - **Evidence:** “The property owner who owns the plaza came to the city and they said that they have tenants looking to rent the space, but they would need to get it rezoned. So they're trying to actively fill their space so that they can.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:04:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3862s) - **Imposing Censure on Three Council Members** - **Summary:** Statement regarding three Alder Persons absent from the May 19, 2025 Council Meeting who made a statement to the news media about their intent to impede quorum. - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle - **Evidence:** “At the May 19, 2025 Council Meeting, there were three Alder Persons absent from the meeting. Outgoing Alder Person Monroe made a statement to the news media in front of City Hall moments before the meeting. Alderperson Stacy was in front of the City Hall at this time as well. In his statement, Monroe mentioned that Simmons and Sanders were not there to avoid violating Illinois law. The overall intent of this action was to impede the business of this council by causing a failure of a quorum. This is quite clear in that they informed the news media exactly of their intent prior to the meeting. Fortunately, this tactic was unsuccessful as they evidently didn't understand that it was Alderperson Johnson's presence and not ex-Alderman Monroe's that mattered for the purpose of achieving a quorum. And this council was able to convene and do the very important work which was before us on the agenda.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:05:21](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3921s) - **Adoption of resolution ratifying emergency electrical repairs to police** - **Summary:** Item number 9 was the adoption of resolution 2025-69, which ratified emergency electrical repairs to police. - **Evidence:** “Item number 9 is the adoption of resolution 2025-69. Could you please read this? Resolution ratifying emergency electrical repairs to police” - **Source timestamp:** [01:14:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4495s) - **East Department Air Conditioning System by Morris Electric** - **Summary:** The discussion concerned the East Department Air Conditioning System and work done by Morris Electric. - **Evidence:** “It's the East Department Air Conditioning System by Morris Electric.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:16:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4569s) - **Public Works Department updates on street and water main projects** - **Summary:** The Carroll Street water main project starts this week, affecting the section from Adams to Empire, excluding Galena Street. Other bid street projects start next Monday, including work on Cleveland Avenue by Kelsey Excavating. - **Attribution:** Public Works - **Evidence:** “The Carroll Street water main project is starting this week. You'll probably see signs, road cutting coming up. There was is an accident on the communication. The section that's being done is from Adams to Empire, excluding Galena Street, but that whole portion will be done. I believe they're starting near Empire Street and working their way to the north. That project, again, they're starting today. Contractors should be in sometime this week to start opening up the street in Tang and Watermain. The street projects that we bid, and those will all be starting next Monday. Kelsey Excavating will be in. We met with them today and they will be starting on Cleveland Avenue and then working their way around town.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:24:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5047s) - **Fire Department activity report** - **Summary:** The Fire Department offered to share details of their weekly activities and calls responded to with council members and the public. - **Attribution:** Fire Department - **Evidence:** “Some of my personnel have expressed to me that they would like me to share some of their activities and the calls that they respond to throughout the week to council members and also the public.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:25:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5138s) - **Water main and road construction projects** - **Summary:** The water main projects can start at Blackhawk Avenue, and the overall road construction for the rest of the summer is estimated to cost about $6.7 million. - **Evidence:** “So the water main projects can start, which that will start at Blackhawk Avenue as well. So as we stated last week, about $6.7 million with the road construction that will be taking place for the rest of the summer.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:25:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5125s) - **Fire Department activity report** - **Summary:** On June 5th, Bishop responded to the Lindow Theater and successfully resuscitated a gentleman in full cardiac arrest; he was flown to Hospital Rockford. A similar successful resuscitation occurred last week at the golf course. Other incidents included four car crashes (one rollover with injuries), a garage fire on Foley set by three juveniles, and a bedroom fire started by a small child with a lighter on Ringgold. - **Evidence:** “So on June 5th, Bishop responded to the Lindow Theater and found a gentleman in full cardiac arrest. He was in the lobby, our paramedics got there, the engine company, and they successfully resuscitated him. He was flown to Hospital Rockford for further care, and now, last report, he was sitting up talking to his family, and they were wishing him a Happy Father's Day. So that was a successful resuscitation. Also last week they had a similar situation at the golf course and that same thing they had successful resuscitation that gentleman also was flown to Rockford and he's he's receiving additional care some other incidents we had four car crashes one was a rollover with injuries and we spawned into We started a garage fire on Foley that was set by three juveniles, witnessed by a construction crew that were doing the lead service line remediation. So we had good witnesses to that event there. We responded to a bedroom fire started by a small child with a lighter on Ringgold.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:26:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5175s) - **Police Department Dispatch Center operations** - **Summary:** The work done in the Dispatch Center is considered very important, and it is fully staffed with two to three dispatchers per shift. Of those, 10 are trained, and two are currently being trained. There is built-in redundancy where calls not answered by the primary dispatchers are automatically forwarded. - **Evidence:** “Initially, I'd like to state that the work that individuals do in the Dispatch Center is some of the most important work at the police department. They deserve the highest praise for their selflessness in ensuring Freeport residents feel safe and are heard. The Dispatch Center is fully staffed with two to three dispatchers per shift. Of those, 10 are trained, two are being trained right now.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:27:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5277s) - **Library Summer Reading Program** - **Summary:** The library held a kickoff event for the summer reading program attended by over 500 people last week, and there are already close to 500 kids registered. A Bluey party is scheduled for Friday. - **Evidence:** “I just wanted to highlight our summer reading program. Last week we had our kickoff event and we had over 500 people attend our event and we already have registered probably close to 500 kids for summer reading and we every event has been attended very well so we're looking forward to you. This week I think we have a Bluey party as in the Wee Party as in the cartoon is on Friday.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:29:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5350s) - **Community Building Events (High Hope Freeport)** - **Summary:** The coming weekend starts the 40 days of peace and community building with High Hope Freeport. Activities include beautifying the block on Chicago and Frank at 8 AM on Friday, a resource block party on Chicago and Frank from 1 to 4 PM on Saturday, and a church in the street on Chicago and Frank from 1 to 2:30 PM on Sunday. - **Evidence:** “I had to remind the council and the listening audience that this coming weekend starts the 40 days of peace and community building with High Hope Freeport. Friday on the area of Chicago and Frank will be 8 AM for beautifying the block and then Saturday in that same and Frank. From 1 to 4 is the resource block party and then on Sunday on Chicago and Frank is the church in the street from 1 to 2.30.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:29:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5350s) - **Neighborhood Watch Meetings** - **Summary:** The neighborhood watch for the second ward is scheduled for this Thursday at 6:30 PM at 3002 Farmdale Dillane, but the next meeting on Laurel Street will be moved to July 10th at Schwartz on Park Boulevard due to a holiday. - **Evidence:** “Alderman Johnson yeah I just want to remind everybody there's praise in the park Friday at Crate Park at 7 PM the assemblyman will be the ones that will be presenting the music and also the neighborhood watch for the second ward is this Thursday at 6:30 PM at 3002 Farmdale Dillane, Alderman Simmons, the only thing is the neighborhood watch is next Monday night on Laurel Street, Stacy, Shadle, just want to point out that our neighborhood watch is going to get moved from July 3rd because of the holiday being the next day it'll give and me a week later on July 10th at Schwartz on Park Boulevard.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:30:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5437s) - **Thank you to Pat Ingram and crews for assistance** - **Summary:** Klemm thanked Pat Ingram and his crews for handling an Arcadia Association blockage of the street. - **Attribution:** Klemm - **Evidence:** “Ollerman, Klemm? Yeah, I'd just like to take a second to thank Pat Ingram and his crews this morning. We had an Arcando Association, some branches come down and blocked the street and the guys were right there to take care of it. Thank you guys for all you do and all the people who work for the city. We really appreciate it.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:34:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5650s) ## Metrics - **Total cost estimate for electrical work** - **Summary:** The initial electrical amount was stated as $13,000, but the speaker corrected this, stating the total bill could be close to $100,000. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “Somebody can help me. 13,000 A change. Yeah, 13,000 was just the electrical. We had a lot of electrical redone within the actual AC unit and all the feeds that run into the building were done because those were original and we were afraid that they may have been grounding out in the old conduit. So those were all new conduits and pretty heavy copper wire that was raining back into the building. So that amount, that balance would cover the three invoices is what we're seeing. No, that's just one invoice from one supplier. This bill will probably be, in all reality, close to $100,000 when we're all done.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:23:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4993s) ## Discussion - **Aldermen's ability to speak and address ward concerns** - **Summary:** Concerns were raised regarding the aldermen's ability to speak out and put issues on the agenda, citing an example involving a building inspector denying permits. - **Evidence:** “I want to say it isn't important for our aldermen to be able to speak out and to, without being Fine without being put in backs against the wall and we are in that ward so why would it be important or why would it not be important for them to be able to speak, put things on the agenda because the situation that happened with Alfredo was the building inspector told her that it was nothing in the ordinance, there was nothing written down to where she couldn't do what she was asking to do and then in return after being denied a permit They actually said to Mrs. Stacy that we asked to buy her lot.” - **Source timestamp:** [07:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=465s) - **Concerns about city processes and potential lawsuits** - **Summary:** A speaker expressed belief that certain departments are denying permits to gain access to property, suggesting this could open the city up to another lawsuit. - **Evidence:** “One thing I want y'all to know is that we are hip to whatever is going on behind these doors. You guys are prompt to community development is the main one. He is basically denying permits to gain access to the property over there. That's how we feel. Y'all have put blocks on the state or on the county tax sale and you're showing your hand. Showing your hand. We're not going to give up. And if she's not able to get her permit after going through all of the legal things, that is opening the city for another lawsuit.” - **Source timestamp:** [08:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=504s) - **Aldermen addressing ward issues** - **Summary:** A speaker stated that aldermen should be able to address issues in their respective wards and expressed concern about efforts to silence them. - **Evidence:** “She's supposed to be able to go to her alderman and put things on the agenda that a fifth ward, a third ward cares about. There's not things happening everywhere. All I see is you guys with your neighborhood watch. That's like an activity to some of y'all. There's actually things Higgins. So, we're going to be talking about things happening in our ward that we need our aldermen to be able to address.” - **Source timestamp:** [08:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=522s) - **Freedom of speech and constitutional rights** - **Summary:** A speaker argued that efforts to silence voices violate constitutional rights. - **Evidence:** “And don't think that we don't know that you guys are packed up in here like nerds versus or jocks versus the geeks. We know that if y'all get five people or whatever y'all got going on trying to pack up and hush them, we know that we're not going to be able to account on our aldermen. So you're kind of like taking their job title away and their ability to help their own people. And I don't know how you feel. I don't know what's great about that. Nothing this shouldn't even be on the agenda to even try to find them. That's like freedom of speech We need to start doing a research on some of this stuff should be violating our constitutional rights Plain and simple. It's shameful that you guys are actually trying to silence freedom of speech” - **Source timestamp:** [09:21](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=561s) - **Ordinance amending Chapter 1060: Garbage fees rate adjustment** - **Summary:** Director Richter explained that the ordinance adjusts trash pickup rates for the remaining years of a ten-year contract, noting the new rates are still slightly below previous ordinance rates. - **Attribution:** Director Richter - **Evidence:** “If you recall from our last council meeting, I read from the memo that last year the City Council voted to suspend the annual increase for trash pickup that normally takes effect on July 1st. We kept the same rate. We did not change it. At this time, the ordinances that has been suggested will adjust those rates. We can't keep them the same rate every year. Our contract was for 10 years. So we are adjusting the rates from now until the end of that contract. There's a chart on my memo indicating what those rates would be. They are still a little bit below each year than what the rates were in the previous ordinance.” - **Source timestamp:** [17:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1071s) - **Funding source for trash fee increase** - **Summary:** Director Richter stated that money collected for trash goes into the health and environmental fund, which is used to pay haulers, pay Freeport, and cover write-offs. - **Attribution:** Director Richter - **Evidence:** “There is a specific fund only for trash. So any of the money that is collected for trash goes into the health and environmental fund. That's trash. So we collect the money there. We pay the bill to the haulers from there. We also pay refresh free port out of there. We also have, you know, any bad debt that and I write off, that we bring to council every year, we bring that in November, December, the bad, any people that didn't pay their water bills, or I'm sorry, strike that, trash, garbage, when we do the write-offs from seven years ago, there's a little bit of piece of that, that'll go through that fund as well.” - **Source timestamp:** [18:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1136s) - **Fund allocation for write-offs and payments** - **Summary:** The fund handles payments to haulers, refresh free port out, and bad debt write-offs from previous years. - **Attribution:** Robert - **Evidence:** “We pay the bill to the haulers from there. We also pay refresh free port out of there. We also have, you know, any bad debt that and I write off, that we bring to council every year, we bring that in November, December, the bad, any people that didn't pay their water bills, or I'm sorry, strike that, trash, garbage, when we do the write-offs from seven years ago, there's a little bit of piece of that, that'll go through that fund as well. So it's just that fund, that's where the money goes.” - **Source timestamp:** [18:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1136s) - **Mechanism for rate adjustments** - **Summary:** A question was raised regarding how a scale is created for increases and decreases in rates. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “Oldham and Sanders? Yeah. How did you come up with the scale for increase and decrease? Sure. What's your mechanism that creates that?” - **Source timestamp:** [19:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1198s) - **Information dissemination regarding rate changes** - **Summary:** A speaker expressed gratitude to the Board of Trustees for providing necessary information but questioned how the public is notified about proposed increases and what mechanism drives them. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “John, and I am very grateful to the Board of Trustees for providing the information that you need, the information that you need, the help that you're using to make these kinds of increases on any item that you deem that feels necessary, where you're getting this information and how you disseminate it to the public because they need to know exactly that is that is affected by what we're doing here so but yeah are we are are we doing anything to notify people that these increases are taking effect because of this reason and I understand we have reserves and things for to pay to pay bills and things like that but when you see things like that that we need to and I'm not a voter, I'm not a voter, I'm not a voter. The people needs to be informed. Why are we increasing anything? And what creates that mechanism that causes that?” - **Source timestamp:** [20:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1209s) - **Projection details for service frequency** - **Summary:** Director Richter detailed projections regarding the frequency of services like refresh Freeport, electronics recycling, and tire collection over five years. - **Attribution:** Director Richter - **Evidence:** “So when I put the expenses together, so those, the budget for 2026, 2027, 2028 is not finalized. We are even there. I'm projecting and I conferred with the city manager, how often are we going to do refresh Freeport? Are we doing it every day or every year, every month? That was the plan. So for the five years, I projected that. We're talking about electronics recycling. How often are we going to do that? Are we going to do that every year or are we going to do that every other year? So I discussed that with him. I think there's been discussions about a tire possibly thing about bringing in tires as well on a different date. So how often are we going to do that? So I had to project all that out and figure out how much the fund would need in order to be sustainable. And I did that, and I was able to reduce the amounts that were in the ordinance previously.” - **Source timestamp:** [22:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1362s) - **Need for public notification on rate changes** - **Summary:** A speaker emphasized the necessity of notifying the general public about process and reasons behind any proposed increases, stating decisions cannot be based only on feeling. - **Attribution:** Huffines - **Evidence:** “I would like for the general public to be notified and have complete clarity of what the process of how we got to where we're going, how we're getting to this particular area of increase because it's affecting people. When we do things like that and it's based upon feelings, we need more than just one individual making that decision. And I'd like to know who are the other party officials that is looking at what you're making decisions on.” - **Source timestamp:** [24:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1487s) - **Impact of proposed garbage rate change** - **Summary:** A speaker questioned if the reduction in garbage rates would affect services like dumping on the first Saturday of the month and whether contractors are over-dumping. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “Alderman Stacey? Is some of this money going to the expense of the every first Saturday of the month where people could go dump stuff? This money is going toward that? Yes it is. Isn't it also true that a lot of contractors are taking advantage and dumping their stuff more so than a lot of tons is being weighed? But I don't know how much of it is the citizens of Freeport compared to contractor and business people” - **Source timestamp:** [26:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1616s) - **Use of funds for debris dumping site** - **Summary:** Discussion regarding whether money is allocated to the first Saturday of the month for people to dump stuff. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “Alderman Stacey? Is some of this money going to the expense of the every first Saturday of the month where people could go dump stuff? This money is going toward that?” - **Source timestamp:** [26:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1616s) - **Contractor dumping at debris site** - **Summary:** Discussion about contractors taking advantage and dumping more than weighed tons. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “Isn't it also true that a lot of contractors are taking advantage and dumping their stuff more so than a lot of tons is being weighed? But I don't know how much of it is the citizens of Freeport compared to contractor and business people Releasing, Aron, Joe, Br Taylor, Robert, Triple T, Bernie, and just real quick for the news media, we're getting messages that where you're standing is blocking the YouTube video people from being able to see who's speaking.” - **Source timestamp:** [27:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1630s) - **Commercial debris at debris site** - **Summary:** Discussion confirming that the tonnage was higher than anticipated and suggesting commercial debris loads would be rejected; most items were household debris. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “So what you say, there is some commercial debris? Which they would because the tonnage has been way more than was anticipated and so I think that they would reject those types of loads so I don't believe it's been a lot of construction debris's period. It's been a lot of household debris that people don't seem to have an avenue to get rid of. Stuff that doesn't fit in your garbage can.” - **Source timestamp:** [28:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1718s) - **Amendment to placing items on agenda (Ordinance 2025 37)** - **Summary:** Discussion regarding a motion by Alderman Johnson to change the language in section 220.10 subparagraph 29, requiring only two aldermen with a memo to place an item on the agenda. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “I went over the memo that, and went over all the proposed changes to the rules of council ordinance. I won't bore you by rereading it again, but at the last council meeting Alderman Johnson did make a motion to amend section 220.10 subparagraph 29 which deals with placing items on the agenda. As proposed, there was a change that said that it would require a majority of the aldermen to place an item on the agenda. Alderman Johnson proposed to change that language to say that two aldermen could still place Johnson.” - **Source timestamp:** [30:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1806s) - **Status of agenda amendment (Ordinance 2025 37)** - **Summary:** The item is currently at the discussion stage regarding Alderman Johnson's motion to change language in subparagraph 29. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “So where we're at as far as tonight is, is that what's on the floor before you would be Alderman Johnson's motion to change the language of subparagraph 29 to reflect that two aldermen could still place an item on the agenda provided they gave a memo with that agenda item. So procedurally that's we're at the discussion stage of that motion.” - **Source timestamp:** [31:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1877s) - **Process for adding items to the agenda** - **Summary:** Discussion reiterating that knowing what an item is about beforehand is desired, as previous items were mainly questions. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “And I think that she's doing it, nobody is trying to stop anyone from talking. It's just that we just would like to know when you do have something on the agenda, we know what it's about. And some of the things that was on the agenda last week were mainly just questions. And those are things that you can just go in and ask those questions.” - **Source timestamp:** [31:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1910s) - **Council rights regarding quorum** - **Summary:** Discussion concerning council's right to conduct quorums, separate from the current amendment discussion. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “Well, yeah it does suppress counsel from speaking if you're trying to make modifications where the council and the mayor because no one defined that part to me I understand the council has the right to conduct quorum's but I didn't know in this well I'm talking on portion to the to the next portion because right We're just on the amendment of two aldermen with supporting document.” - **Source timestamp:** [32:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1948s) - **Amendment scope and timing** - **Summary:** Clarification that the current discussion is limited to an amendment concerning 'two aldermen with supporting documents' and not related to quorum at this time. - **Evidence:** “Well, what I'm saying is to support this document even with the two aldermen. Yeah, it's just there's no nothing to do with quorum at this point. That's you can talk about after we get done with this amendment portion. Does that make sense?” - **Source timestamp:** [33:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=1990s) - **Amendment language change proposal** - **Summary:** The motion on the floor is an amendment to change the requirement to 'two aldermen with supporting documents such as a memo'. - **Evidence:** “That's what's on the floor right now that's the motion that's on the floor was this amendment to change it to where to Alderman plus a memo would be able to put something on the agenda now once we get done dealing with that issue then we can then the whole ordinance is back on the floor and you can people whoever can bring up any other topics regarding this ordinance that they want to talk about okay so is there any other discussion on this amendment” - **Source timestamp:** [33:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2015s) - **Ordinance status based on Johnson's motion** - **Summary:** If Alderman Johnson's motion is approved, the speaker would rewrite the ordinance to include that language. - **Evidence:** “Right now what's on the floor is Jess Alderman Johnson's motion there and if that's approved then I would go and rewrite the ordinance to include that language. So what you see in the ordinance right now is the original from first reading there still Johnson. And that's what Alderman Johnson is proposing to change.” - **Source timestamp:** [34:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2055s) - **Prerequisites for amendment consideration** - **Summary:** A challenge was raised regarding whether a majority vote of aldermen was required at the time the ordinance was first considered for modification via an amendment. - **Evidence:** “Yeah, but what you're not saying is that for this particular ordinance to even be considered as an amendment. There was no majority at that time of aldermen voting for that particular item. There was no majority in effect when this first came about to make a modification to amend it for the majority of the aldermen and the mayor making these changes.” - **Source timestamp:** [34:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2087s) - **Justification for amendment process** - **Summary:** The speaker questioned the basis for amending the ordinance if no initial majority supported the modification. - **Evidence:** “And so since it had never been a majority at the outset, at the very beginning, how How are we making amendments and modifications to even justify whether or not all the men all have to vote whether or not an agenda is approved? I have a question. Are you back to the May 19th question that you've had a couple of times, is that what you're asking?” - **Source timestamp:** [36:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2173s) - **Ordinance introduction context** - **Summary:** The speaker stated that if the ordinance was not introduced initially, they would not be discussing it now. - **Evidence:** “Well, I'm talking about this agenda and this ordinance. That's what I'm referring to. If the ordinance was not introduced initially, we wouldn't be having this conversation is what I'm getting at. We would not be sitting here talking about this ordinance if it had not been introduced because everything was already in play. No changes had to be made. Everything was according to previous ordinance or the past ordinance before it was introduced to be modified or changed or have an amendment to it. And that's what I'm getting at.” - **Source timestamp:** [36:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2205s) - **Ordinance placement on agenda** - **Summary:** Discussion regarding who placed the ordinance on the city council agenda. - **Evidence:** “My question is, who brought that to the agenda? Who implemented that suggestion that that ordinance, that particular ordinance be placed on the agenda? That's what I'm getting at. Who put that in there so we can be, why are we sitting here discussing something somebody put on the agenda?” - **Source timestamp:** [37:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2265s) - **Origin of ordinance discussion** - **Summary:** Alderman Sanders stated that the amendment was originally presented by Attorney Zito. - **Evidence:** “I would have to say that was presented originally by attorney Zito.” - **Source timestamp:** [39:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2349s) - **Efficiency of meetings and process improvement** - **Summary:** Several aldermen spoke with Attorney Zito about improving the efficiency of the meetings. - **Evidence:** “So myself, several aldermen sitting here actually spoke with attorney Zito about how do we fix this? How do we make us better? How do we become more efficient?” - **Source timestamp:** [39:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2367s) - **Discussion on the amendment itself** - **Summary:** A participant stated that they would speak again regarding the amendment. - **Evidence:** “I want folks to know that I will speak again. And you are welcome to.” - **Source timestamp:** [39:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2393s) - **Agenda item scope for clarity** - **Summary:** A participant stated that bringing items to the agenda is generally for clarity and understanding. - **Evidence:** “When we bring something to the agenda, it's basically for clarity and understanding.” - **Source timestamp:** [40:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2419s) - **Council majority rule on amendments** - **Summary:** A participant referenced a 5 to 3 majority vote in relation to adding items to the agenda. - **Evidence:** “It's not like we're asking counsel to vote on a new lawnmower or hangers and others at the airport or water mains breaks and piping and tubing and fixing and it's just a way to try and shut us down or we got to put in the work as if we don't have jobs Besides this one, this was not broke. And to come at us with the majority rules, it's five to three.” - **Source timestamp:** [40:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2451s) - **Alternative input methods for council business** - **Summary:** A participant suggested that phone calls or attending weekly meetings are appropriate ways to provide input rather than requiring formal agenda items. - **Evidence:** “if all you're looking for is an answer to something you're you and every one of the council members are welcome to make phone calls to myself, to the city manager. We welcome that. We also welcome that weekly meeting that many attend and some don't at all.” - **Source timestamp:** [42:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2545s) - **Concerns regarding council process and communication** - **Summary:** A speaker expressed frustration with the council process, citing feeling lied to, ignored, and uncomfortable attending meetings at the office, stating they will instead use email for a paper trail. - **Evidence:** “Some of us don't come to your office. Some of us are not comfortable coming to your office. Some of us don't believe and trust what you say because you say one thing in our face and when we get to the council floor not you but when we get to the council floor it's another whole different story.” - **Source timestamp:** [44:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2657s) - **Discussion on amendment status** - **Summary:** A speaker confirmed they had exhausted their time regarding the amendment discussion. - **Evidence:** “I exhausted it, okay. If there's no further discussion, Madam.” - **Source timestamp:** [45:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2738s) - **Clarification of 'other' business category** - **Summary:** The clerk noted the suggestion to change 'other' to 'bid openings at other miscellaneous city business' and updated council announcements into a clarified new business section. - **Attribution:** Clerk - **Evidence:** “I could note it's not part of this, but we used to just put other, and the suggestion is to change that to bid openings at other miscellaneous city business. And previously it used to just say new business. We have inserted the council announcements in there when each of you go around and have a chance to speak. We've just clarified that that is new business and council announcements.” - **Source timestamp:** [49:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=2993s) - **New Business definition** - **Summary:** Discussion regarding how 'new business' is referred to on the agenda and its meaning. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “When you say new business, how did you refer to that particular section, when you talk about new business? Just a standard agenda format. I don't understand what that is. I don't know, does it come from Robert Rules of Order, Attorney Zeno? Vance, and Mrs. Huffines.” - **Source timestamp:** [50:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3054s) - **New Business scope** - **Summary:** Clarification that 'new business' refers to the time allowed at the end of the meeting for attendees to say whatever they want. - **Evidence:** “Okay. So, okay. The breakdown of new business could refer to, it's kind of broad when we say that. What it means is the time that each one of you are allowed at the end of the meeting to say whatever you want. That's what that means.” - **Source timestamp:** [51:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3090s) - **Standing committees status** - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the removal of standing committee reports from the agenda due to non-existence or outdated records. - **Attribution:** Alderman Stacy - **Evidence:** “So why get rid of communications and written reports? Why get rid of reports of standing committees? Why not? We don't have standing committees. That's an old, old. It never was updated.” - **Source timestamp:** [51:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3105s) - **Time limit for council speaking turns** - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the proposed time limit change, with suggestions of three minutes and five minutes. - **Evidence:** “The recommendation from Ms. Johnson is using the ordinance for three minutes. Is that what's stated in the ordinance? Three minutes? Two. Two minutes. And you want to make an amendment for? Three. Three minutes. Why are we stopping at three minutes?” - **Source timestamp:** [55:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3311s) - **Time limit for council speaking turns** - **Summary:** Discussion confirming that the original ordinance time limit was not explicitly set in the code. - **Evidence:** “There was actually no time limit set in the code as it reads right now. Right, so it's up to Alderman Johnson if she wants to change it from 3 to 5.” - **Source timestamp:** [57:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3447s) - **Ordinance 2025-39 zoning map amendment details** - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the proposed zoning change for a gym at 1500 Southwest Avenue, including concerns about scope and purpose. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sanders. Yeah, I understand the existing business complex that's already there is what we're referring to. And they want to establish or opening or design a different modification of that complex in order for them to establish whatever that she was referring because I understood portions of it, but I don't understand the full details of what they're asking for. And so we're not looking at the full details of it. I know you mentioned Jim, but we don't know how it's going to be, you know, produced in those areas and whether or not it causes any kind of infractions upon any other businesses there. Are they taking over the whole complex over there or how they're working that? Because I can't see that space over there being large enough. What is their purpose? I'll put it like that. What is their main objectives and their purpose for wanting all of these things done?” - **Source timestamp:** [01:01:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3703s) - **Quorum and Council Business Impediment** - **Summary:** Monroe stated that Simmons and Sanders were absent to avoid violating Illinois law, intending to impede business by causing a failure of quorum. Monroe noted the tactic was unsuccessful because Alderperson Johnson's presence mattered for quorum. - **Attribution:** Monroe - **Evidence:** “In his statement, Monroe mentioned that Simmons and Sanders were not there to avoid violating Illinois law. The overall intent of this action was to impede the business of this council by causing a failure of a quorum. This is quite clear in that they informed the news media exactly of their intent prior to the meeting. Fortunately, this tactic was unsuccessful as they evidently didn't understand that it was Alderperson Johnson's presence and not ex-Alderman Monroe's that mattered for the purpose of achieving a quorum.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:05:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3945s) - **Conduct of Elected Officials** - **Summary:** A concerted effort by elected older persons to prevent city business is conduct neither council nor constituents should tolerate. - **Evidence:** “Regardless of the ultimate failure of these tactics, a concerted effort by elected older persons to prevent the business of the city they were elected to serve is not the type of conduct either we as a council nor the constituents of the wards who elected them should be expected to tolerate.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:06:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=3983s) - **Procedural Discussion Regarding Amendments** - **Summary:** Discussion occurred regarding whether jumping to an amendment was appropriate given that the original ordinance/protocol from May 19th had not been resolved yet. - **Evidence:** “Why are we jumping over the fence to get to an amendment? Because Alderman Shadle just made a motion to amend his original motion because he originally made the motion a few weeks ago. But that has nothing to do with the ordinance itself.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:08:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4107s) - **Procedure for Absence Notification** - **Summary:** Alderman Sellers suggested that if a council member is going to be absent, they should call the city clerk so she can take attendance. - **Evidence:** “I don't know if this is the part, but I would like to add in there that if you are going to be absent, that you make a call to the city clerk, because she has to take attendance.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4237s) - **Requirement for absence notification at council meetings** - **Summary:** Alderman Sellers suggested that absent members should call the city clerk to take attendance. - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sellers. I don't know if this is the part, but I would like to add in there that if you are going to be absent, that you make a call to the city clerk, because she has to take attendance.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4237s) - **Process for changing council ordinances regarding absence notification** - **Summary:** Alderman Sellers stated that requiring members to inform the clerk of an absence and reason constitutes an ordinance change. - **Evidence:** “So if you wanted to require, if anyone's going to be absent, that they inform the clerk and give the reason. That's a change to our ordinance. So that would be an ordinance change.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4259s) - **Censure resolution discussion regarding procedure** - **Summary:** Alderman Sanders argued that the censure resolution should not have been brought up until in-depth discussions were held on protocols and consistency. - **Evidence:** “But my point is that in my argument, this should not have been brought to the floor until we had in-depth discussions about it, what is relevant and what is not, and how the protocols are set up, and what is the consistency, the consistency of how we adopt things and how we do things in this administration and this council.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:11:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4316s) - **Clarification on motion to table indefinitely** - **Summary:** Alderman Simmons was asked for clarification regarding his motion to table. - **Evidence:** “I just feel Alderman, Simmons, just for clarification, are you, is your motion to table this to another meeting or to table indefinitely?” - **Source timestamp:** [01:13:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4397s) - **Electrical issues at police facility related to air conditioning load** - **Summary:** A specialist found that eight added air conditioning systems in the Banks-Bergana building, which never submitted a load letter to ComEd, de-balanced the electrical system. - **Evidence:** “After research, it was found that the Banks-Bergana building had added eight air conditioning systems since it reopened up and they never turned in a load letter to ComEd. So they added all that load to the same grid pulling from the same transformers.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:17:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4662s) - **Resolution of electrical issues at police facility** - **Summary:** The issue was resolved after pressure was put on ComEd to replace transformers, and subsequent work included rewiring and updating items. - **Evidence:** “We put some pressure on ComEd to come out and replace the transformers and they did on overtime to get it done. This has probably been an issue that's been going on for probably about the time I've been doing the public works role three years because we've had ComEd out there three times and they they really were persistent that there wasn't an issue till we were able to get the specialist out with the proper equipment to measure it so thanks to their help most of its resolved since then” - **Source timestamp:** [01:18:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4683s) - **Billing for electrical repair assistance** - **Summary:** The council is asking to pay Morris Electric their invoice fee for helping with the repairs. - **Evidence:** “so we're asking to pay Morris Electric their invoice fee for helping us” - **Source timestamp:** [01:18:16](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4696s) - **Payment for electrical work and claim process** - **Summary:** The speaker detailed that ComEd was persistent about an issue until specialists could measure it, leading to the resolution of most issues. They mentioned paying Morris Electric their invoice fee and starting a rewiring at the facility as prevention. The bills will be turned into a physical electrical claim with the city's insurance company. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “so thanks to their help most of its resolved since then we did fry another compressor but it was because the compressor was bad it actually blew a piston it had nothing to do with the electrical content and so we're asking to pay Morris Electric their invoice fee for helping us we are also did a bunch of We've started a rewiring at the facility and updated some items to make sure that the system wasn't grounding out. All in prevention to make sure this was happening. We have other bills that are coming along with this. This is just the first one of a few. And we are turning this into a ComEd electrical claim that we've already started the process with the city's insurance company. So all these bills will be turned over as a physical electrical claim.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:18:16](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4696s) - **Payment timing for contractors** - **Summary:** Alderman Sanders questioned why contractors should have to wait for the insurance claim to process before being paid for services already rendered. The speaker clarified that they would pay for the service and then seek reimbursement through the insurance company. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “And these contractors wants to get paid exp. Wants to get paid expeditiously as soon as possible as we as we are talking well they're they're good contractors and they're not begging for the money but you know but they can't wait for the insurance claim to crack they shouldn't have to wait for a claim that they weren't part of okay they just provide a good service to us do we know what the claim has not been investigated yet is that correct um I wouldn't say it's not investigated we just submitted the Huffines to replace this equipment and the balance that needs to be paid. And not only that, what are we suggesting in paying the contractors early for the work service that they have done? I wouldn't say we're going to pay them early. We've already provided the service. We will pay them for the service and then we will seek our reimbursement through the insurance company, which is the way more its claims are done.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:19:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4785s) - **Invoices related to electrical work** - **Summary:** The speaker listed expected invoices including Morris, Geostar (HVAC master supplier), and Genesis Power (generator systems), and asked Michelle to collect historical invoices for the claim. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers - **Evidence:** “Okay yeah, so there'll be three invoices that I know of for sure will have this Morris invoice. We have a bill from Geostar which is our HVAC master supplier that's been working out there. And then Genesis Power with the generator systems, we should have invoices from them. I've also asked Michelle to go back through the time that we've been dealing with this and collect those invoices as well as part of the claim because we've had a lot of work done there in the last couple years.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:21:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4872s) - **Building AC unit replacement scope** - **Summary:** Alderman Sanders questioned if replacing 10 air conditioners at the Banks Pergagna building would be necessary, given the building's planned exit and the load requirement issues. - **Attribution:** Alderman Sanders - **Evidence:** “I was just wondering, I know you said the Banks Pergagna building, I mean, they had the 10 air conditioners, so if they were to turn them on again, it's going to have to be a lot of work to replace the AC outside, so I don't think we're looking to do that in a building that we would like to exit shortly. I was just wondering, I know you said the Banks Pergagna building, I mean they had the 10 air conditioners, so if they were to turn them on again it wouldn't affect us.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:22:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=4925s) - **Chapter 20 Rules of Council Order of Business changes** - **Summary:** A concern was raised regarding potential unapproved modifications to the order of business within Chapter 20 Rules of Council and Section 2, 2010, questioning who established any such changes. - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sanders? Yeah, I'd like to just elaborate on this Chapter 20 Rules of Council and Section 2, 2010, Order of Business. I'm just curious to want to know, has any changes and I would like to know, in this order, been modified, reconstructed, and anything of that nature been moved from one position to another and only people that I know that, only person I know that is presenting this, was there any changes in the order of these rules of council and I'd like to know who established those changes and what was recommended for” - **Source timestamp:** [01:31:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5496s) - **Changes to council rules and process** - **Summary:** A speaker expressed concern that changes to the rules of council were made without proper discussion on the floor and requested a return to regular standard processing. - **Attribution:** Miller - **Evidence:** “I'm just curious to want to know, has any changes and I would like to know, in this order, been modified, reconstructed, and anything of that nature been moved from one position to another and only people that I know that, only person I know that is presenting this, was there any changes in the order of these rules of council and I'd like to know who established those changes and what was recommended for Miller. I feel that those changes, because I feel that these changes are out of alignment of the process that we usually go through, the formality that we was going through previously before I actually saw this rule of council.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:31:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5510s) - **Impact of current rules on public input** - **Summary:** The speaker argued that the current rules suppress council's opportunity to speak on public announcements, preventing rebuttal to general public presentations. - **Attribution:** Miller - **Evidence:** “So I like to address that because I want it to be changed back to its regular standard processing, because that right there suppresses council opportunity to speak on the subject matter of the public announcements. When the citizens of Freeport comes in, it cancels out council from injecting their views and and rebutting of anything that the general public might present to the council or to this city hall.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:32:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5570s) - **Concerns regarding ordinance changes process** - **Summary:** The speaker expressed concern that a manipulation process took place regarding rule changes, suggesting something was taken out and replaced. - **Attribution:** Miller - **Evidence:** “I see that it's been taken out and then put something else been put in there and I don't think that should” - **Source timestamp:** [01:33:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5607s) - **Police department necessity and worker rights** - **Summary:** The speaker argued that the police department is necessary despite current issues, emphasizing the need for officers to be paid properly and not suppressed when speaking their minds. - **Evidence:** “Now, do I want us to lose power in the streets? We have shootings happening all over town. Do we not need our police department? Of course we do. We also need our people to be paid properly, to not be put down, to not be rolled up because they speak their minds and tell their struggles.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:39:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5959s) - **Meeting decorum rules regarding sound/applause** - **Summary:** A speaker questioned the council's enforcement of decorum rules that allow removal for making a sound or clapping. - **Evidence:** “Regarding decorum during meetings, the provision has been changed to provide that any person, any person, any person who is deemed to be out of order are violating the rules of council twice can be removed. Somebody made a sound, you're out of order. Somebody goes, or clap, you're out of order.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:41:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6072s) ## Public Comment - **Property issues and local government support** - **Summary:** Alfreida Schaefer spoke regarding property ownership in the Fifth Ward, detailing issues with permits, fines, and praising Alderman Stacy's assistance. - **Attribution:** Alfreida Schaefer - **Evidence:** “Hello. Good evening. My name is Alfreida Schaefer. I actually wanted to speak on item number, I believe it's eight. And the reason why it's important to me is because I actually own property in the Fifth Ward. And Ms. Stacy has brought to her attention about an issue that I was having with my property.” - **Source timestamp:** [04:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=249s) - **Aldermen's ability to speak on local matters** - **Summary:** A speaker expressed concern about aldermen being able to speak out without fear of penalty regarding ordinances. - **Evidence:** “I want to say it isn't important for our aldermen to be able to speak out and to, without being Fine without being put in backs against the wall and we are in that ward so why would it be important or why would it not be important for them to be able to speak, put things on the agenda because the situation that happened with Alfredo was the building inspector told her that it was nothing in the ordinance, there was nothing written down to where she couldn't do what she was asking to do and then in return after being denied a permit They actually said to Mrs. Stacy that we asked to buy her lot.” - **Source timestamp:** [07:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=465s) - **Ordinance 2025-37 impact on community voices** - **Summary:** A speaker argued that eliminating the ability to hear from non-majority voices is detrimental to the whole community, comparing it to a body needing attention in its injured parts. - **Evidence:** “I get it. I know majority rules. He, she, they who have the majority can pretty much do whatever they want. And that's fine when you're making a softball team line up for deciding when to go for dinner or when you've discussed something again and you finally come to the decision where you have to make a I understand that. But I think you have to realize, you know, what's the best thing for the 23,000 members of this community? If there is going to be elimination of being able to hear from those voices that aren't in the majority, you know, is that really good for the whole community?” - **Source timestamp:** [09:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=577s) - **Ordinance 2025-37 impact on community voices** - **Summary:** The speaker urged council members to vote no on Ordinance 37, stating that absolute power corrupts. - **Evidence:** “Your desire to streamline, work, or punish dissenting voices, or even eliminate them altogether is likely possible tonight, I can understand you guys have the majority, but but in your hearts, I think some of you know in your heart that it's the wrong thing to do. It would be a courageous thing for you to vote no on that ordinance. And we always remember that absolute power eventually does corrupt.” - **Source timestamp:** [11:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=709s) - **Support for elected representatives and ward rights** - **Summary:** A speaker stated that residents of the fifth and third wards voted for Huffines, asserting that the determination of what they speak on belongs to them, not the council. - **Evidence:** “Those of us that live in the fifth ward, that live in the third ward, that lives in the wards that you guys are trying to silence, you need to understand something. We voted Huffines. They're our voice. We should make the determination as to what they speak on, not any of you.” - **Source timestamp:** [12:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=777s) - **Community resistance and demand for justice** - **Summary:** The speaker warned that efforts to silence residents will fail, citing past large-scale demonstrations and predicting continued organized opposition. - **Evidence:** “The other day, 400,500 plus Freeport residents marched against what is happening in this country and in this town. All of you who sit under the mega category need to understand that none of us are going to stop this battle. We're not going to stop fighting.” - **Source timestamp:** [13:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=815s) - **Constituent concerns regarding council actions and representation** - **Summary:** A speaker warned council members about potential constituent unrest from various parts of town if they do not address issues of justice. - **Evidence:** “You will have people standing out there, 400 plus, outside of your doors, waiting for you to not sneak out the back door, because you are going to have to deal with your constituents. Every last one of us, the ones that live on the east side, the ones that live on the west, Lerner, Kareem, and many others. Those of us that live on the west side, those of us that live on the other side of town, those who live in the areas where they're not being affected or going to rise up, and they're going to speak, and they're going to demand justice.” - **Source timestamp:** [14:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=855s) - **Ordinance change process and lack of discussion** - **Summary:** A speaker stated that the body defended an ordinance change to city council rules where many changes were never discussed on the floor. - **Attribution:** Joshua Atkinson - **Evidence:** “Tonight, you guys, this body defended the ordinance change to change city council rules. Many of the changes in there were never discussed on this floor. They were just in there, so it was up to you guys all to look in there.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:34:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5682s) - **Lack of answer regarding ordinance agenda placement** - **Summary:** A speaker noted that despite asking a simple question about who put the ordinance on the agenda, no clear answer was provided. - **Attribution:** Joshua Atkinson - **Evidence:** “While Alderman Sanders, although it takes him a little bit sometimes to get there, flat out asked a very simple question very clearly, who put this ordinance on the agenda? And still, we have no answer for that.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:35:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5720s) - **Concerns about retaliation against public speaker** - **Summary:** A speaker expressed concern that a young woman who spoke at the police department was written up and accused of lying. - **Attribution:** Joshua Atkinson - **Evidence:** “I don't know if this is true or not, Scott, but I just heard about it today, that the young woman who spoke and pleaded for this council to help her at the conditions at the police department was written up when she returned to work and accused of lying. And I really hope that's not true.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:35:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5754s) - **City worker contract negotiations and city shutdown risk** - **Summary:** A speaker addressed the ongoing negotiation with city workers, noting the deadline for a strike is June 25th, and warned that a strike would shut down all city services. - **Attribution:** Wendy Pearson - **Evidence:** “I would like to first address the contract for city workers. As you guys know, the city has been in negotiation with city workers for the past three to four months. The deadline for them to be able to strike is May, I'm sorry, June 25th. I'd like to say to you this, regardless to what the chief has just stated, there have been times that I've walked up in the police station there was one dispatch person, just one. The same thing I've been told has happened in the sheriff's department as well... If our city workers decide to strike, that means that the entire city will be shut down. No services, no police department, no water service, no street services, no services whatsoever.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:37:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5839s) - **Need for fair contract negotiation with city workers** - **Summary:** The speaker urged the council to negotiate a fair and honest contract with city workers, stating that one day of shutdown would demonstrate failures in governance. - **Attribution:** Wendy Pearson - **Evidence:** “But the fact of the matter is, is you guys need to sit down with our city workers. You need to negotiate a fair and honest contract with them. And I'm going to tell the city that I've encouraged some of them to strike. And I've encouraged them to strike for one day because one day of shutting down this city will show what has not been accomplished, the things that have not been done, the manner in which we're being treated.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:38:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=5932s) - **First Amendment rights and meeting decorum** - **Summary:** A resident expressed concern over the restriction on First Amendment rights regarding making sounds (cheering, booing, clapping) during meetings. - **Evidence:** “it is seriously a first amendment right problem. If somebody back there cheers, if somebody boos, if somebody claps, regarding decorum during meetings, the provision has been changed to provide that any person, any person, any person who is deemed to be out of order are violating the rules of council twice can be removed.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:41:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6062s) - **Juneteenth observance dates** - **Summary:** A resident inquired if the listed 'American Freedom Days' period includes Juneteenth, noting that banks are closed for it. - **Evidence:** “Also, one other question, what happened to Juneteenth? I noticed that you have American Freedom Days from June 19th to July 4th. Does that include? Because the banks are off for Juneteenth.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:42:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6131s) - **Lack of trust in council members' answers** - **Summary:** A speaker stated there is no trust because council members fail to answer simple questions that could be answered privately. - **Evidence:** “There is no trust. There's no trust. So who do you expect to come to you? Because they trust you? After you've improved over and over again who you may be? Without answering a simple, a very simple question that has been asked a bunch of meetings, a bunch of times that you could have answered behind closed doors.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:42:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6173s) - **Police funding and 'defunding'** - **Summary:** A speaker argued that failing to pay police officers and dispatchers a living wage constitutes 'defunding' the police. - **Evidence:** “But then you come to the city of Freeport where we don't pay our policemen or our dispatchers a living wage and you don't call that defunding. You don't call not paying people to live in the town that you want them to live in by our ordinances, defunding.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:45:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6340s) - **40 days of peace protocol** - **Summary:** A speaker questioned what happens if there is no peace during the 40 days observance period. - **Evidence:** “Also, I have a question about the 40 days of peace. If there is not peace during the 40 days, does the clock restart or what are we doing?” - **Source timestamp:** [01:46:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6382s) - **Critique of civic action and need for action over prayer** - **Summary:** The speaker questioned the reliance on prayer without corresponding action from the city as a whole. - **Evidence:** “At what point are we going to understand that prayer is nothing without action? You can pray all day. I can pray that I can get a Mercedes Benz next week. If I don't go to work, make that money, work hard, that Benz is not gonna fall into my lap. We can pray all we want, but as a city, we need to put some work behind that prayer.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:46:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6419s) - **Praise for council members and criticism of questioning process** - **Summary:** The speaker thanked Altman, Stacy, Sanders, and Simmons for their hard work but criticized Shadle and the rest of the council for not asking questions when working for the people. - **Evidence:** “First, I'd like to again thank Altman, Stacy, for your hard work, Sanders for your hard work, and Simmons for your hard work. The rest of you, for shame is all I got to say. Shadle, you said that you work for the people, but you don't ever ask any questions. None of the rest of you guys ask questions.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:47:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6433s) - **Concerns regarding city management and criminal influx** - **Summary:** The speaker expressed concern about the city becoming a distressed city due to current leadership, predicting that only criminals will move there. - **Evidence:** “Second of all, third of all, I hope you're happy that now you're getting the city to be a distressed city Mayor, because the only people you're going to have coming to this town is criminals. Good people, taxpayers, are going to be out of here.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:48:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6483s) - **Accusation of hypocrisy regarding public statements** - **Summary:** The speaker accused a council member (Norman Stacy) of hypocrisy when responding to the public. - **Evidence:** “Also, when the people get up here at first to pray, you bow your head, say amen at the end, but when Norman Stacy gets up here, you're like, uh-huh, uh-huh. There's a word for that. I think it's hypocrite.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:48:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6505s) - **Defense of freedom of speech** - **Summary:** The speaker stated that it is unfair for someone to be written up for expressing their freedom of speech. - **Evidence:** “Paige Kerr, I just want to add to the record and I think it's unfair that she was written up for expressing her freedom of speech.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:48:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6516s) - **Difficulty securing electricity for personal property in Freeport** - **Summary:** The speaker detailed issues with receiving electricity for a garage on their lot, noting that other residents have power without owning the home, and alleging the city was trying to buy the lot through lies. - **Evidence:** “I just want to say that with everything that I have been through, as far as with my garage receiving electricity, I I think that it's just a shame that living, having my lot where it's at, I'm not in a position where I can have electricity in order to secure my property and the items that I have. There are several residents and property around Freeport that has electricity without a home on it.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:49:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6542s) - **Concerns over city resistance regarding utilities** - **Summary:** The speaker expressed confusion and frustration over the difficulty in obtaining electricity for their lot, stating they believe it is discrimination. - **Evidence:** “I don't understand what is a resistant is. Even the electrician from ProSource, he said, I have never dealt with a county like this. What is the problem? It's only electricity into a existing garage. He said he'd done many of them in Freeport. So I just wanna say whatever that's going on in this town that is blocking me from at least receiving electricity so that I can maintain my lot, so that I could take care of my plants that I just put on there through Highland Community College. I don't understand.” - **Source timestamp:** [01:51:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qod_Fj1bTK0&t=6662s)