# Meeting Events

Meeting: `x9zowxdedju.city_council_meeting_7_7_2025`

Meeting date: `2025-07-07`

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 made to approve the agenda.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number one is the approval of the agenda. Is there such a motion? So moved.”
  - **Evidence:** “Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=144s)

- **Approval of minutes from June 2nd, 2025 meeting** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion made to approve the minutes from the regular meeting on June 2nd, 2025.
  - **Evidence:** “Approval of the minutes from the regular meeting on June 2nd, 2025. Is there a motion to approve? So moved.”
  - **Evidence:** “Second. Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=153s)

- **Approval of Consent Agenda Items** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the consent agenda items.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle, Madam Clerk
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second.”
  - **Evidence:** “Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The motion passes six to two.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [07:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=474s)

- **Receiving Audit Report** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to receive the audit report and place it on file.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers
  - **Evidence:** “so I'll entertain a motion to receive the report and place it on file some of the motion made by Alderman Sellers second”
  - **Evidence:** “The motion is approved 8-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [13:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=800s)

- **Receive report and place on file** — Approved
  - **Summary:** Motion to receive a report and place it on file.
  - **Evidence:** “so I'll entertain a motion to receive the report and place it on file some of the motion made by Alderman Sellers”
  - **Evidence:** “Second The motion is approved 8-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [13:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=800s)

- **Approve appointments and reappointments (Item 7)** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve item number 7.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second.”
  - **Evidence:** “Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. And the motion passes 8 to 0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=898s)

- **Approve FOIA Officers (Item 8)** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The motion passed eight to zero.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to approve? So move. Second.”
  - **Evidence:** “Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? The motion passes eight to zero.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [16:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=978s)

- **Pass Ordinance 2025-39 (Zoning Map Amendment)** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to pass the zoning map amendment.
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, and Johnson.”
  - **Evidence:** “The ordinance passes 8-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [17:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1072s)

- **Ordinance passage (initial)** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The ordinance passed with a vote of 8-0.
  - **Evidence:** “The ordinance passes 8-0.”

- **Move forward with Ordinance 2025-40**
  - **Summary:** Motion made to move forward with the ordinance.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to move this forward? So move.”

- **Suspension of Rules (Second Motion)** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The suspension passed with a vote of 8-0.
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll on the suspension only? Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The suspension pass is 8-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [19:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1157s)

- **Ordinance 2025-40 (Final Passage)** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The ordinance passed with a vote of 8-0.
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. And the ordinance passes 8-0 as well.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [19:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1199s)

- **Move forward with Ordinance 2025-41**
  - **Summary:** Motion made to move forward with the ordinance.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to move this forward? So move.”

- **Move ordinance forward for consideration**
  - **Summary:** Motion to move the current item forward.
  - **Evidence:** “So we want to make that those first 80 feet either direction prohibited parking So staff asks you to move forward with this ordinance. Is there a motion to move this forward? So move.”
  - **Review flags:** unattached_motion_request
  - **Source timestamp:** [21:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1272s)

- **Suspension of the rules for Ordinance 2025-41** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve suspension of the rules.
  - **Evidence:** “Motion to approve suspension of the rules? Second. Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Parker for suspension, and again, suspension is non-debatable and must pass by two-thirds majority.”
  - **Evidence:** “Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The suspension passes 8-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [22:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1329s)

- **Approval of Ordinance 2025-41** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Vote on approval of Ordinance 2025-41.
  - **Evidence:** “And the ordinance is approved 8-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [22:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1378s)

- **Move Ordinance 2025-42 to next meeting**
  - **Summary:** Motion to move the ordinance authorizing the city manager to execute airport airplane hangar leases administratively to the next regularly scheduled meeting.
  - **Evidence:** “Okay, then I'll need a motion to move this ordinance on to the next regularly scheduled meeting. So moved. A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Johnson.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [24:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1493s)

- **Moving ordinance to next meeting**
  - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Johnson.
  - **Evidence:** “Yes. Okay, then I'll need a motion to move this ordinance on to the next regularly scheduled meeting.”
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Johnson.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1504s)

- **Reinstating 1% grocery tax as of January 1st, 2026**
  - **Summary:** Recommendation to move forward with reinstating the 1% as of January 1st, 2026.
  - **Evidence:** “So as I sit here with you today I'd recommend moving forward with reinstating the 1% as of January 1st, 2026.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [28:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1699s)

- **Moving ordinance to move forward**
  - **Summary:** Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Parker.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to move this ordinance forward? So move. Johnson. We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Parker.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [28:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1699s)

- **Approval to purchase new fire department vehicle**
  - **Summary:** Motion made to approve the resolution to purchase the new vehicle for the fire department shift commanders.
  - **Attribution:** Council
  - **Evidence:** “So, the fire department is requesting approval of the resolution to purchase the new vehicle for the fire department shift commanders. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [33:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2002s)

- **Adoption of Resolution 2025-71 authorizing agreement with Fehr Graham** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The resolution was adopted by a vote of 8-0.
  - **Evidence:** “The resolution is adopted 8-0. Construction of Resolution 2025-71. Could you please read this? Resolution authorizing an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services for Westward Water Main Extension.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [43:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2618s)

- **Adoption of Professional Engineering Agreement with Fehr Graham**
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the professional engineering agreement with Fehr Graham.
  - **Attribution:** Staff/Council, Alderman Shadle
  - **Evidence:** “So staff recommends to approve the professional engineering agreement with Fehr Graham to move forward with the construction oversight and management. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved.”
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [44:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2648s)

- **Resolution adoption (2025-73)** — Adopted
  - **Summary:** The resolution was adopted by a vote of 5 to 3.
  - **Evidence:** “The resolution is adopted 5 to 3.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [56:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3386s)

- **Adoption of engineering agreement**
  - **Summary:** Motion to adopt the engineering agreement.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sellers
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second.”

- **Adoption of resolution 2025-74: Ratifying Emergency Police Department HVAC System Repairs by Geostar Mechanical** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to adopt the resolution.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle, City Council
  - **Evidence:** “So is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second.”
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8 to 0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:09:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4141s)

- **Approval of bid for Westward Water Main Expansion**
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the bid with Helm Civil.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4246s)

- **Approval of bid with Helm Civil**
  - **Summary:** Staff recommends approval of the bid with Helm Civil.
  - **Evidence:** “and staff recommends approval of the bid with Helm Civil. Is there a motion to approve? So moved.”
  - **Evidence:** “So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4236s)

- **Approval of construction bid**
  - **Summary:** Vote taken on the bid approval.
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, Alderman Simmons. So again, Mr. Stiegel, this is all under the premise that these are so many grants out there that we would be sure if I were to get one.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:25:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5134s)

- **Approving the bid (General)** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The motion to approve the bid passed five to three.
  - **Evidence:** “The motion is approved five to three.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:27:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5237s)

- **Approval of SKC construction bid** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Recommendation to approve the SK construction bid.
  - **Evidence:** “SAS recommendation is to approve the SK construction bid.”
  - **Evidence:** “The motion passes five to two.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:28:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5303s)

- **City budget and tax increases**
  - **Summary:** A speaker criticized the tendency of the city to raise taxes when it does not get what it wants, citing examples like buying new public work trucks instead of using old ones until they couldn't run.
  - **Evidence:** “Second of all, the budget. Smile Mayor, keep smiling. But you know what? We all have to live in a budget. The city, when they don't get what they want, they raise the taxes, raise sales taxes, and it continues. You buy new public work trucks. Why? Use the and the old ones until they can't run. Gee, they did. But you're not.”
  - **Review flags:** unattached_second
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:52:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6729s)

- **Conflict of interest regarding Public Works contract**
  - **Summary:** A speaker raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest involving the city working with Fehr Graham for public works and suggested alternatives like Willett and Hoffman.
  - **Evidence:** “Second of all, public works. You're working with Fehr Graham. That's kind of a conflict of interest. Big time. And why can't we look at somebody else besides Fehr Graham like Willett and Hoffman who do the same thing that you do and probably will do it cheaper. But there's a connection between you working for the public works and Fehr Graham. That's why Fehr Graham gets all this.”
  - **Review flags:** unattached_second
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:52:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6755s)

- **Entering executive session**
  - **Summary:** Motion made to enter into executive session.
  - **Evidence:** “Madam Clerk, could you please read this? We will go in for two different exemptions. Pursuant to 5ILCS 122C3, the selection, oh, that's not right. Pursuant to 5ILCS 122C5, the purchase or lease of real property for the use of the public body, including meetings held for the purpose of discussing whether a particular parcel should be acquired. And pursuant to 5ILCS 122C21, discussion of minutes 21 discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under the still having a meeting please keep it down whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by section 2.06 is there a motion to enter into executive session”
  - **Evidence:** “is there a motion to enter into executive session we have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers”
  - **Evidence:** “roll call. Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, and Johnson.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:02:32](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=7352s)

## Procedural Actions

- **Invocation and Opening of Meeting**
  - **Summary:** The meeting was opened with an invocation.
  - **Attribution:** Michelle
  - **Evidence:** “Good evening, Michelle, could you please give the invocation? In Jeremiah 29-7 in the NCV version it says, pray to the Lord for the city where you are living because if good things happen in the city, good things will happen to you also. So Lord we come before you in complete surrender to your will for the city. We lay aside all of our own thoughts, ideas, hurts and mistrusts and we pray that you would and James. I pray that every word spoken here tonight flows from godly wisdom so that the city can accomplish its destiny in you, Jesus. I pray that your love saturates this place in every heart and mind here tonight. James 119 says, my dear brothers and sisters, take note of this. Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. So we pray this verse over each one of us here tonight in Jesus' name. Amen. Thank you. We will officially call this meeting to order.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [00:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2s)

- **Roll Call Attendance Check**
  - **Summary:** The roll call was taken for council members.
  - **Evidence:** “Mayor Miller? Here. Alderpersons, Klemm? Here. Johnson? Here. Simmons is absent. Parker? Here. Stacy, here. Shadle, here. Sanders, here. And Sellers, here.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=110s)

- **Pledge of Allegiance**
  - **Summary:** The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Alderman Parker.
  - **Evidence:** “If you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Parker. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=110s)

- **Consent Agenda Consideration**
  - **Summary:** The consent agenda was considered routine and acted upon by one motion.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number five is the consent agenda. The consent agenda considers 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:** [06:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=415s)

- **Consent Agenda Items Approved**
  - **Summary:** The consent agenda included approving to receive and place on file board and commission minutes.
  - **Evidence:** “The consent agenda consists of approving to receive and place on file board and commission minutes from the foreign fire insurance board, April 10th and the board of fire and police commission, May 27th, 2025.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [07:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=426s)

- **Item number 7: appointments and reappointments**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding item number 7, appointments and reappointments.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 7 is appointments and reappointments. Could you please read these?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=854s)

- **Item number 8: Appointments for FOIA Officers**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding item number 8, appointments for FOIA Officers.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 8 is Appointments for FOIA Officers. This is just really a recap of all of the existing FOIA officers.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [15:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=923s)

- **Item number 9: Second reading of ordinance 2025-39**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the second reading of Ordinance 2025-39.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number nine is the second reading of ordinance 2025-39. Could you please read it?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [16:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=988s)

- **Item number 10: First reading of Ordinance 2025-40**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the first reading of Ordinance 2025-40.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 10 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-40. Could you please read this?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [18:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1089s)

- **Second reading of Ordinance 2025-41**
  - **Summary:** The ordinance is considered the second reading.
  - **Evidence:** “So then this would be considered the second reading of Ordinance 2025-41. If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [22:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1361s)

- **First reading of Ordinance 2025-42**
  - **Summary:** The first reading of Ordinance 2025-42.
  - **Evidence:** “And item number 12 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-42. Could you please read this? Ordinance authorizing the city manager to execute Alberta's airport airplane hangar leases administratively.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [22:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1378s)

- **Discussion on proceeding**
  - **Summary:** Further discussion was requested regarding the ordinance.
  - **Evidence:** “Further discussion? Alderman Stacey.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1504s)

- **Adoption of resolution 2025-70 for Fire Department vehicle purchase**
  - **Summary:** The council moved to adopt Resolution 2025-70 approving the Purchase of a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe from Carl Auto Group for the Fire Department.
  - **Attribution:** Council
  - **Evidence:** “We'll move on to item number 14, the adoption of resolution 2025-70. Could you please read this? Approving the Purchase of a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe from Carl Auto Group for the Fire Department.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [31:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1896s)

- **Roll Call Vote for Adoption**
  - **Summary:** The council took the roll call vote for adoption.
  - **Attribution:** Clerk
  - **Evidence:** “Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [22:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1369s)

- **Order of agenda setting**
  - **Summary:** The Clerk explained that there is an ordinance governing the order of agendas.
  - **Evidence:** “Okay, so there's an ordinance that said we could not talk about this until 18? There's an order. Madam Clerk, would you like to explain that?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:20:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4818s)

- **Vote on approving the bid**
  - **Summary:** The clerk requested a vote on approving the bid.
  - **Evidence:** “if there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the vote on approving the bid.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:26:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5219s)

- **Neighborhood Watch Move Date**
  - **Summary:** The neighborhood watch for sixth Ward was moved from last Thursday to this week July 10th at 6 PM.
  - **Evidence:** “I'd like to mention the neighborhood watch for sixth Ward was moved from last Thursday to this week July 10th 6 PM Schwartz and Park Boulevard.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:33:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5597s)

- **Opening prayer for council meeting**
  - **Summary:** A speaker offered a prayer invoking divine help and trust.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Stacy, as I said many times before, we start in prayer, we can end in prayer. And my scripture for tonight is Psalms 121.1. I will lift up my eyes unto the hills from with cometh my help.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:00:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=7233s)

## Ordinances and Resolutions

- **Zoning map amendment at 1500 Southwest Avenue**
  - **Summary:** Ordinance approving zoning map amendment changing zoning from B-1-1 restricted retail business to a B-2-1 limited service business district.
  - **Evidence:** “Ordinance approving zoning map amendment at 1500 Southwest Avenue submitted by REA-4 asset to examine the proposed zoning map change from a B-1-1 restricted retail business to a B-2-1 limited service business district.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [16:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=988s)

- **Stop signs at Pleasant Street and Miami Avenue**
  - **Summary:** Ordinance providing for additional stop signs at the intersection of Pleasant Street and Miami Avenue.
  - **Evidence:** “Ordinance providing for additional stop signs at the intersection of Pleasant Street and Miami Avenue.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [18:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1097s)

- **Ordinance 2025-40: Additional stop signs at Pleasant Street and Miami Avenue**
  - **Summary:** First reading of Ordinance 2025-40, providing for additional stop signs at the intersection of Pleasant Street and Miami Avenue.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 10 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-40. Could you please read this? Ordinance providing for additional stop signs at the intersection of Pleasant Street and Miami Avenue.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [18:09](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1089s)

- **Ordinance 2025-41: Amending Title 8 parking section 480.11**
  - **Summary:** First reading of Ordinance 2025-41, amending Title 8 parking section 480.11 prohibiting parking streets adding 80 feet on Oak Avenue In both directions north and south of Empire.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 11 is the first reading of ordinance 202541. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending Title 8 parking section 480.11 prohibited parking streets adding 80 feet on Oak Avenue In both directions north and south of Empire.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [20:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1208s)

- **Resolution authorizing agreement with Fehr Graham for Westward Water Main Extension** — Adopted
  - **Summary:** The resolution authorizing an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services for Westward Water Main Extension was adopted 8-0.
  - **Attribution:** Council
  - **Evidence:** “The resolution is adopted 8-0. Construction of Resolution 2025-71. Could you please read this? Resolution authorizing an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services for Westward Water Main Extension.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [43:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2618s)

- **Approval of agreement for Airport Engineering Services (PAPI system)**
  - **Summary:** Resolution approving agreement with Crawford, Murray, and Tilley for Airport Engineering Services related to replacement of runway 624, precision approach path indicator, or the PAPI system.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 16 is the resolution, adoption of resolution 2025-73. Could you please read this? Resolution approving agreement with Crawford, Murray, and Tilley for Airport Engineering Services related to replacement of runway 624, precision approach path indicator, or the PAPI system.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [56:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3386s)

## Financial and Contract Events

- **Consent Agenda Items Approved**
  - **Summary:** The consent agenda includes approving board and commission minutes from the foreign fire insurance board (April 10th), the board of fire and police commission (May 27th, 2025), the annual treasure report (2025), the building permit report (June, 2025), the police department report (May, 2025), the greater free partnership report (June, 2025), finance bills payable totaling $1,732,163.41, payroll for pay period ending June 14th, 2025 ($675,341.10), and payroll ending June 28th, 2025 ($676,250.11).
  - **Evidence:** “The consent agenda consists of approving to receive and place on file board and commission minutes from the foreign fire insurance board, April 10th and the board of fire and police commission, May 27th, 2025. The annual treasure report, 2025. The building permit report, June, 2025. The police department report, May, 2025 and the greater free partnership report, June, 2025. Also as approval of finance bills payable in the total of $1,732,163.41, payroll for pay period ending June 14th, 2025 in the total of $675,341.10 and payroll ending June 28th, 2025 in the total of $676,250.11.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [07:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=426s)

- **Funding source for new fire department vehicle**
  - **Summary:** The cost is covered by the Fire Capital Improvement Fund, which is funded by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, and will not impact general fund programs.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “So funding for this proposed vehicle is accounted for and this year's budget was planned for as part of the vehicle replacement plan. So the Fire Capital Improvement Fund would cover the cost of this vehicle. This is not part of the City's general fund and will not impact any programs the City has currently planned. So, the Fire Capital Improvement Fund is funded by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. This is not something the taxpayers would be paying for out of their sales tax or property taxes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [32:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1966s)

- **Funding breakdown for PAPI System Replacement**
  - **Summary:** The total project cost is $640,000. Of this, 95% ($608,000) will be funded through federal and state grants, with the city responsible for a 5% local matching totaling $32,000.
  - **Evidence:** “The total cost of the project is $640,000. Of that amount, 608,000 or 95% will be funded through federal and state grants with the city responsible for 5% local matching totaling $32,000.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3505s)

- **Engineering Agreement Costs for PAPI System Replacement**
  - **Summary:** The engineering agreement with Crawford Murphy and Tilley totals $194,300. The city is responsible for a total of $32,000 budgeted in fiscal year 2025.
  - **Evidence:** “The engineering agreement totals $194,300 for the design, special services, and construction phase, and the city is responsible for total $32,000 that is budgeted in fiscal year 2025 in the airport budget.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3514s)

- **Bidding comparison to estimate**
  - **Summary:** The low bid and all four bids were under the engineer's estimate, which was north of $900,000.
  - **Evidence:** “And the low bid and all four bids were under the engineer's estimate. I believe that was north of $900,000.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4228s)

## Projects

- **PAPI System Replacement Timeline**
  - **Summary:** The project is scheduled for bid letting in November of 2025, with contractor work anticipated from May to June of 2026. Engineering work will conclude by August of 2026.
  - **Evidence:** “The project is scheduled for bid letting in November of 2025, with contractor work anticipated from May to June of 2026. Engineering work will conclude by August of 2026.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3495s)

- **Engineering work conclusion and cost**
  - **Summary:** Engineering work will conclude by August of 2026 with a total project cost of $640,000. Of this amount, $608,000 or 95% is funded through federal and state grants, leaving the city responsible for a 5% local matching totaling $32,000. The engineering agreement totals $194,300 for design, special services, and construction phase, with the city responsible for a total of $32,000 budgeted in fiscal year 2025 in the airport budget.
  - **Evidence:** “Engineering work will conclude by August of 2026. The total cost of the project is $640,000. Of that amount, 608,000 or 95% will be funded through federal and state grants with the city responsible for 5% local matching totaling $32,000. The engineering agreement totals $194,300 for the design, special services, and construction phase, and the city is responsible for total $32,000 that is budgeted in fiscal year 2025 in the airport budget.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3505s)

- **Water main replacement project scope and funding**
  - **Summary:** The project involves the water main, gate valves, water services, and fire hydrants for a corridor lacking city water availability. City restoration will be limited to the water main trench only.
  - **Evidence:** “This project was for the water main, gate valves, water services, and fire hydrants to this corridor that don't currently have city water available. City restoration will be limited to the water main trench only.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4219s)

- **Funding source for water main project**
  - **Summary:** The project will be paid for with CIP funds.
  - **Evidence:** “So this project will be paid for with CIP funds,”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4236s)

- **MFT routing and crack filling program for 2025 bid opening**
  - **Summary:** A bid opening occurred on June 24, 2025, for the MFT routing and crack filling program for 2025.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 19 is another bid approval could you please read this there was a bid opening on June 24 2025 for the MFT routing and crack filling program for 2025”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:27:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5237s)

## Appointments

- **Public Library Board appointment**
  - **Summary:** Appointment of Michelle Swalve to the Public Library Board effective through May 31, 2027.
  - **Evidence:** “Appointment of Michelle Swalve to the Public Library Board effective through May 31, 2027.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=854s)

- **ADA Compliance Commission establishment**
  - **Summary:** To stand up the ADA Compliance Commission effective through May 31, 2029.
  - **Evidence:** “To stand up the ADA Compliance Commission effective through May 31, 2029”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=866s)

- **Zoning Board of Appeals reappointment**
  - **Summary:** Reappointment of Bobby Yount to the Zoning Board of Appeals effective through June 30, 2030.
  - **Evidence:** “Reappointment of Bobby Yount to the Zoning Board of Appeals effective through June 30, 2030”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=883s)

- **Zoning Board of Appeals reappointment**
  - **Summary:** Reappointment of Abra Palermo to the Zoning Board of Appeals also effective through June 30th, 2030.
  - **Evidence:** “and the reappointment of Abra Palermo to the Zoning Board of Appeals also effective through June 30th, 2030.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=883s)

## Presentations and Reports

- **Audit Report Presentation**
  - **Summary:** The presenter provided an overview of the annual financial report, noting that the independent audit report provides a clean, unmodified opinion and that management discussion and analysis summarizes year performance. The general fund had an operating increase of about $6.5 million, leaving a net increase of about $1.6 million in the current year. The landfill closure fund showed a deficit fund deposition of $5 million due to GASB 83.
  - **Evidence:** “I'm nice to go through the annual financial report with you, which is the thicker the packets you received. And if you turn to page one, you'll find our waterbucket name and waterhead. This is our independent audit report in which we provide a clean, unmodified opinion. That's the highest opinion you can receive. Basically, it states that we found no issues with internal controls or the numbers as they are presented. If you flip about three more pages, you'll run into the management discussion and analysis. This section really provides a summary of how the year performed in narrative form. If you have questions on fluctuations from year to year, or what the numbers truly mean, this is where you want to go to find those answers. I'm next going to skip ahead to what would be your individual fund income statement, which begins on page 24. About three-quarters of the way down the page, you'll notice that the general fund had an operating increase of about $6.5 million. This was and dollars. This was further reduced by transfers out to your debt service, grants, capital projects and your landfill funds. So your general fund was left with a net increase of about $1.6 million in the current year. One other fund I did want to point out to you was the landfill closure fund, which is on page 28. At the bottom of page 28, you'll Notice that the landfill fund had a deficit fund deposition of $5 million. This is primarily due to the implementation of GASB 83, which was a few years ago, where we now have to put what the long-term liability hypothetically would be to retire that landfill, which in the current year was reevaluated at about $5 million.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [09:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=591s)

- **FOIA Officer roster update**
  - **Summary:** Listing of current and new FOIA officers, including Kurt Schnorr at the police department and Deputy Chief Travis Davis at City Hall.
  - **Evidence:** “But with the retirement of Lieutenant, oh, help me, JoLynn Markham, Kurt Schnorr is now also a FOIA officer at the police department, as well as Deputy Chief Travis Davis at City Hall, myself, Deputy Clerk Jabria Pearson, and Executive Assistant Michelle Nelson, Fire Department Denise Scudder, Admin Assistant Hilary Brosius, the Fire Marshal, and at the library, Ashley Huffines as the Director and Kaia Eckert, Administrative Assistant as her backup.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [15:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=936s)

- **Zoning Map Amendment Details (Ordinance 2025-39)**
  - **Summary:** The amendment concerns the old Shopco optical location, changing zoning from B1-2 to B2-1 for a proposed gym tenant. The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval by five to zero on June 5th, and the Planning Commission recommended approval by six to zero on June 12th.
  - **Evidence:** “The location would be the old Shopco optical. It's actually between the old Shopco optical and what's now the Flying Puff. And essentially what's going on here, nothing's changed from the last reading. It's literally looking to go from a B12 to a B21. And the reason for it is they have a tenant that would like to open up a gym. And this petition went before our Zoning Board of Appeals on June 5th, and it was recommended for approval by a vote of five to zero with zero abstentions. And on June 12th, our Planning Commission also recommended approval by a vote of six to zero with zero abstentions and in line with the Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Commission staff is recommending approval of the ordinance.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [17:12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1032s)

- **Justification for Ordinance 2025-40**
  - **Summary:** Staff was notified by two Aldermen, Third Ward and Aldermen at Large, about an unsafe intersection. Two stop signs were installed at the intersection of Miami and Pleasant, and staff is asking for approval to codify this in our ordinances as all stop sign locations are included in our ordinances.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Staff was notified by two Aldermen, Third Ward and Aldermen at Large, about an unsafe intersection. Two stop signs were installed at the intersection of Miami and Pleasant, and staff is asking for approval to codify this in our ordinances as all stop sign locations are included in our ordinances.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [18:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1102s)

- **Justification for Ordinance 2025-41**
  - **Summary:** Staff is requesting a change to the parking ordinance and then removing or having no parking for the first 80 feet in either direction off on Oak from Empire. So on the north side and on the south side of Oak, 80 feet, that'll keep there's there's also a appears to be someone who's operating some type of business in that location, too, that seems to be eating up a lot of the on street parking. So we want to make that those first 80 feet either direction prohibited parking.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Staff is requesting a change to the parking ordinance and then removing or having no parking for the first 80 feet in either direction off on Oak from Empire. So on the north side and on the south side of Oak, 80 feet, that'll keep there's there's also a appears to be someone who's operating some type of business in that location, too, that seems to be eating up a lot of the on street parking. So we want to make that those first 80 feet either direction prohibited parking.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [20:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1217s)

- **Ordinance 2025-43: Municipal grocery retailers occupation tax and municipal grocery service occupation tax**
  - **Summary:** The first reading of ordinance 2025-43, amending part eight, business regulation and tax code, title four, taxation, to add chapter 897 for the purpose of implementing a 1% municipal grocery retailers occupation tax and a municipal grocery service occupation tax.
  - **Evidence:** “If there's no further discussion, we'll move on to item number 13, which is the first reading of ordinance 2025-43. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending part eight, business regulation and tax code, title four, taxation, to add chapter 897 for the purpose of implementing a 1% municipal grocery retailers occupation tax and a municipal grocery service occupation tax.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1523s)

- **Fiscal impact of reinstating 1% grocery tax**
  - **Summary:** The repeal of the state's 1% grocery tax effective January 1st, and the authority granted to home rule municipalities to reintroduce a local 1% grocery tax via ordinance.
  - **Evidence:** “So as part of the fiscal year 2025 state budget, Governor Pritzker and the Illinois General Assembly approved the permanent repeal of the state's 1% grocery tax effective January 1st, and Dixie. This tax had historically supported both state and local government operations through revenue sharing mechanism. With its repeal, the state granted home rule municipalities the authority to reintroduce a 1% grocery tax locally via ordinance.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1557s)

- **Fire Department vehicle replacement need**
  - **Summary:** The Fire Department needs a new response vehicle because the current one is nearly 20 years old and unsuitable due to rust on the frame and suspension components. The proposed Tahoe would be assigned to shift commanders, who run about 85% of calls.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “Chief Miller. Thank you, Your Honor. The Fire Department has a nearly 20-year-old response vehicle that is utilized to respond to emergencies for both firefighters and its officers. It has been determined that the vehicle is no longer suitable for response vehicle. Due to rust on the frame and suspension components makes it no longer suitable for emergency responses. The new vehicle proposed would be assigned to the shift commanders, which run about 85% of the calls that we go on, exceeding 6,000 calls per year. Those current shift commanders have completely outgrown their present Ford Explorer. They simply need more space for the required equipment that they have to carry. The Ford would replace the downgraded Chevy Trailblazer. This would extend the useful life of the Ford Explorer and save the City money.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [31:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1910s)

- **Funding source for new vehicle acquisition**
  - **Summary:** The speaker confirmed that funding for the vehicle comes from a capital improvement fund created from ambulance calls revenue, which was budgeted and allocated for this year.
  - **Evidence:** “You said that this would come from the fire We have a capital improvement fund, and that fund is created from the emulants' cause that you all receive, and so you basically budgeted for this this year? That's correct. The money is in the budget for this vehicle. It was planned for, it was allocated for, and we were waiting until the vehicle became available to make a proposal or presentation to council.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [40:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2442s)

- **Resolution 2025-71 details**
  - **Summary:** The resolution authorizes an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services for the Westward Water Main Extension.
  - **Evidence:** “Could you please read this? Resolution authorizing an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services for Westward Water Main Extension. Thank you. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. Fehr Graham designed and permitted the Westward Water Main Extension on Stephenson from Brad Martin to the city limits.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [43:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2623s)

- **Westward Water Main Extension Engineering Services Details**
  - **Summary:** Fehr Graham designed and permitted the Westward Water Main Extension on Stephenson from Brad Martin to the city limits. Helm or Civil was the low bidder for construction, and Fehr Graham will provide professional construction engineering services including full-time observation, inspection, project management, survey layout, and staking.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Fehr Graham designed and permitted the Westward Water Main Extension on Stephenson from Brad Martin to the city limits. Helm or Civil was the low bidder for the construction project and plans to start the new water main installation in the fall of 25. Fehr Graham will provide professional construction engineering services to manage the project on behalf of the city and engineering services will consist of full-time observation and inspection along with project management and construction, survey layout and staking. This project consists of infrastructure improvement investment of $631,889.50 to this location and the hot mix asphalt streets will be a full lane patch upon completion of the water Mayne completion. Professional service engineering services including construction engineering, staking and so on is in the amount of $63,850. Material QAQC material testing services are done by a third party at time and material basis and as needed and construction engineering was part of the 2025 budget.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [43:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2630s)

- **PAPI System Replacement Project Details**
  - **Summary:** The replacement of the PAPI system on runway 6-24 is proposed because the current system, installed in 2002, has exceeded its design life and is no longer operational. The project involves replacing it with FAA L-880 compliant LED systems, costing a total of $640,000.
  - **Evidence:** “The Precision Approach Path Indicator PAPI system, as Dovie just mentioned, is a vital airfield safety feature that provides glide path guidance to pilots using a combination of red and white lights. The current system on runway 6-24, installed in 2002, has exceeded its design life and is no longer operational and is unsupported by the manufacturer. Recent FAA inspections have documented this delinquency. This project proposes full replacement with FAA L-880 compliant LED systems, which will provide visual guidance, increase air navigation safety, and reduce operation and maintenance costs. The total cost of the project is $640,000.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [56:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3406s)

- **Airport engineering recommendation**
  - **Summary:** Staff recommends moving forward with the agreement with Crawford, Murphy, and Tilley as our airport engineer.
  - **Evidence:** “Staff recommends moving forward with the agreement with Crawford, Murphy, and Tilley as our airport engineer.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3514s)

- **Adoption of resolution 2025-74: Ratifying Emergency Police Department HVAC System Repairs by Geostar Mechanical**
  - **Summary:** Manager Boyer presented details regarding the recurring HVAC issues at the city's police department, citing compressor loss and subsequent evaluations by Fehr Graham, ComEd, and specialists. The city will pay Geostar $55,804.15 for emergency repairs and file a claim with ComEd.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 17 is the adoption of resolution 2025-74, could you please read this? Ratifying Emergency Police Department HVAC System Repairs by Geostar Mechanical. Thank you. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. Over the last three years, the city's police department has had reoccurring HVAC or air conditioning issues. The facility air conditioning system, which is original to the building, has had compressor loss at alarming rates, so I think we've gone through three compressors at this point. So due to the last two compressors only lasting nine months and the replacement only lasting one week, Darren from Fehr Graham as the Public Works Director Consultant requested getting a professional third party electrician involved and also a generator specialist for total system evaluation and during the research and discovery phase all internal police station have been able to access the facility. A team of police officers from the city of Washington, electrical demands and wiring were checked. After this was complete, the city requested that ComEd bring in a team of specialists to evaluate the facility and the transformer load rating on the building with specialized monitoring equipment. ComEd monitors proved that the police department was being deprived of full electrical power during sporadic levels of demand. That was upgraded three years ago, had added sufficient demand on these transformers which changed the load and was causing our local transformers to not supply sufficient power to the police station under high demand. So the monitoring equipment proved when all of their systems hit in the new upgraded building that the power lines at the same time the transformers couldn't keep up and comment representatives told city staff that the city can file a claim for all costs associated with the event. So that is the plan currently. Finance Director Richter is compiling all the city's costs for these events over the last several years for a claim. Common responded with new larger Transformers after the power shortage was uncovered and the police station has not had any power related issues since then. So the city will pay Geostar $55,804.15 for the emergency repairs. Furthermore, the staff will file a claim with ComEd for all costs and expenses related to these incidents due to the lack of supply required for our air conditioning system at the city police department. So staff recommends approve the Geostar emergency invoice and we will continue to recover our costs with ComEd in the coming weeks and months.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:07:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4071s)

- **Approval of bid for Westward Water Main Expansion**
  - **Summary:** Manager Boyer presented details on the water main installation designed by Fehr Graham for West Evenson Street, noting that four local bids were received. Helm Civil was the low bidder at $631,889.50.
  - **Attribution:** Manager Boyer
  - **Evidence:** “Item number 18 is approval of bid. Could you please read this? There was a bid opening on June 13th, 2025 for the Westward Water Main Expansion. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. So, Fehr Graham designed and permitted the new 12-inch Graham designed and permitted the new 12 inch water main installation for West Evenson Street from Radmar to the city limits. That would include Open Bible and a public bid opening was held on Friday, June 13th at 10 AM at City Hall. City staff received four local bids for this important project from Kelsey Excavating, Northern Illinois Service Company, Helm Civil, and Fisher Excavating. Helm Civil was the low bidder at $631,889.50. This project was for the water main, gate valves, water services, and fire hydrants to this corridor that don't currently have city water available. City restoration will be limited to the water main trench only. And the low bid and all four bids were under the engineer's estimate. I believe that was north of $900,000. So this project will be paid for with CIP funds, and staff recommends approval of the bid with Helm Civil.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:09:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4173s)

- **History of fire suppression system work**
  - **Summary:** Manager Boyer recounted that 20 years ago, a handshake agreement was made regarding water service construction; staff later began design work with City Council permission after the State Fire Marshal noticed no operational sprinkler systems at a large child care facility.
  - **Evidence:** “Manager Boyer just to speak to a few points you know just to recap 20 years ago there was a handshake agreement with the then fire chief and the water utility that said we'll pursue the construction of this structure if we get water service out there within a period of time those people have either died retired or have moved on to other organization other issues we had a change of the State Fire Marshal who upon inspection noticed that none of the fire suppression systems within the facility that is one of our largest young child care facilities had no operational sprinkler system so staff began the work with City Council permission to put together a design which we did then We Pursued Grant Funding, which we were unsuccessful in getting.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:14:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4485s)

- **Water main construction and service provision scope**
  - **Summary:** The project is not only for one child care facility but also provides water for 11 homes along Stephenson, Highland College, and Freeport School District.
  - **Evidence:** “And I want to remind everyone here that this is not serving a single child care facility. It's also providing water for 11 different homes along Stephenson that don't have access to water. And it's also providing water for Highland College and also Freeport School District.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:15:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4554s)

- **Grant funding sources for water main project**
  - **Summary:** A presentation detailing grant applications, including CDBG and requests sent to Congressional representatives.
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, Alderman Simmons. So again, Mr. Stiegel, this is all under the premise that these are so many grants out there that we would be sure if I were to get one.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:25:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5134s)

- **Crack filling services bid details**
  - **Summary:** The city received two local bids from Denlar Miller, Inc., and SKC Construction. SKC Construction of West Dundee was the low bidder at $76,178.49.
  - **Evidence:** “The city received these two local bids for this specialty pavement project from Denlar Miller, Inc., and SKC Construction. SKC Construction of West Dundee was the low bidder at $76,178.49.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:27:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5279s)

- **Public Works updates (Street and water main)**
  - **Summary:** Cleveland started point repairs this week; Cleveland, from Berger to Empire, will be closed most of the day tomorrow. Black Hawk Water Main started today at Dewey Street moving north and should be under construction for at least the next month before moving to Willow Street. Carroll is under construction from Empire to Galena.
  - **Evidence:** “Cleveland started this week with point repairs happening tomorrow. Cleveland, from Berger to Empire, will be closed most of the day tomorrow. Black Hawk Water Main started today starting at Dewey Street moving north. It should be under construction probably at least the next month and then they should be moving to Willow Street. Carroll is under construction from Empire to Galena.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:29:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5373s)

- **Fire Department activity report**
  - **Summary:** Last week, the fire department responded to 124 calls for service, including incidents on the 4th of July such as a car crash resulting in one adult fatality and a residential fire started by a charcoal grill.
  - **Evidence:** “Last week the fire department responded to 124 calls for service. One of those days of the week, I'll describe what our crews went through on the 4th of July. They began their shift in the afternoon with a car crash that resulted in one adult fatality, one child in critical condition that was flown out to Rockford.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:30:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5424s)

- **Police Department training compliance**
  - **Summary:** All officers completed required safety trainings by July 1st of 2025.
  - **Evidence:** “I'm just happy to report that all of our officers were able to get all the required training done by July 1st of this year, something that not every department was able to do.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:32:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5525s)

- **Water main breaks and maintenance**
  - **Summary:** The fire department crews responded to an estimated 11 water main breaks last week.
  - **Evidence:** “I would like to take a few minutes and thank our dedicated crews that responded to, I believe, 11 water main breaks this last week.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:32:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5535s)

- **Officer Training Completion**
  - **Summary:** All officers were able to complete all required training by July 1st of this year.
  - **Evidence:** “I'm just happy to report that all of our officers were able to get all the required training done by July 1st of this year, something that not every department was able to do.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:32:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5525s)

- **Water Main Breaks and Maintenance**
  - **Summary:** The crews responded to an estimated 11 water main breaks last week, which are correlated with maintenance and the installation of hydro-pneumatic tanks.
  - **Evidence:** “I would like to take a few minutes and thank our dedicated crews that responded to, I believe, 11 water main breaks this last week. They are correlated with maintenance that we're doing in the system and the installation of hydro-pneumatic tanks that we've put in place and preparing for the repainting of the Berchard Tower.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:32:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5535s)

- **Police Department Service Highlight**
  - **Summary:** The police department was highlighted for work done recently, including a major drug bust and recovery of dangerous weapons.
  - **Evidence:** “Also, I would like to highlight a major service, police department, I greatly appreciate the work that's gone on there as well recently with a major drug bust and recovery of dangerous weapons.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:33:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5582s)

- **Next Community Event Date**
  - **Summary:** The next event will be on Saturday the 19th at Knowlton Square.
  - **Evidence:** “And the next event will be on Saturday the 19th at Knowlton Square.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:33:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5597s)

- **Alderman Shadle Neighborhood Watch Schedule**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Shadle will have a neighborhood watch on the last Tuesday of the month.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Klemm? I just wanted to bring up Alderman Shadle who'll have a neighborhood watch the last Tuesday of the month.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:33:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5639s)

- **Staff Representative Introduction**
  - **Summary:** Robert Holtz introduced himself as the AFSCME staff representative for Local 3367, representing municipal employees of Freeport, Illinois.
  - **Evidence:** “hello my name is Robert Holtz and I'm the AFSCME staff representative for Local 3367, the municipal employees of Freeport, Illinois.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:33:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5639s)

## Metrics

- **Estimated annual revenue from 1% grocery tax**
  - **Summary:** The 1% grocery tax generates an estimated $750,000 to $800,000 per year to the city.
  - **Evidence:** “So, the financial impact. The 1% grocery tax generates an estimated $750,000 to $800,000 per year to the city.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [27:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1626s)

## Discussion

- **Landfill Fund Net Position Clarification**
  - **Summary:** A question was raised regarding the net position increase in the landfill fund due to future costs of testing and other expenses.
  - **Evidence:** “Darren, did you have something? I wanted to clarify something on the landfill fund. So my understanding of the net position was I guess how you look at it increased because of the future cost of testing and things like that at the landfill that are getting more expensive over the closure time correct correct yes thank you”
  - **Source timestamp:** [13:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=791s)

- **Landfill fund net position clarification**
  - **Summary:** Clarification regarding the increase in the net position of the landfill fund due to future testing costs.
  - **Evidence:** “I wanted to clarify something on the landfill fund. So my understanding of the net position was I guess how you look at it increased because of the future cost of testing and things like that at the landfill that are getting more expensive over the closure time correct correct yes thank you thank you Don”
  - **Source timestamp:** [13:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=791s)

- **Value of $800,000 revenue to City of Freeport**
  - **Summary:** The $800,000 represents approximately nine staff, which could be police, fire, or public works. It also represents road work, such as a mile of reconstructed roadway that was about 900,000.
  - **Evidence:** “What does $800,000 represent to the City of Freeport? I will say in general, approximately nine staff, whether that would be police, fire, or public works. It also represents, in terms of road work, I think recently we had an example where we had about a mile of reconstructed roadway that was about 900,000, so that's close.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [27:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1669s)

- **Nature of the 1% grocery tax**
  - **Summary:** The 1% grocery tax is not an added tax but a continuing tax that was already being paid, which is now discontinuing or eliminating effective January 1st, 2026.
  - **Evidence:** “Just for the audience, people that are listening, this grocery tax, 1% grocery tax is something that we are already paying. It was, this state tax was added in 1990 as a part of sales tax reform and proceeds from this tax were distributed to local governments and so that's the $800,000 that Rob was talking about that we are getting from this 1% grocery sales tax now. So it is not an added tax. But now it's going to be discontinued or eliminated effective January 1st, 2026.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [29:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1755s)

- **Status of 1% grocery sales tax**
  - **Summary:** The current 1% grocery sales tax was added in 1990 and is not a new tax, but it is set to be discontinued or eliminated effective January 1st, 2026.
  - **Attribution:** Rob
  - **Evidence:** “It was, this state tax was added in 1990 as a part of sales tax reform and proceeds from this tax were distributed to local governments and so that's the $800,000 that Rob was talking about that we are getting from this 1% grocery sales tax now. So it is not an added tax. But now it's going to be discontinued or eliminated effective January 1st, 2026. It's up to the municipalities. They have the option to continue it or not. So that's what this is. It's a continuing a tax that we are already paying right now. It's not a new tax. It's one we are already paying.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [29:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1765s)

- **Impact of losing 1% grocery sales tax**
  - **Summary:** Losing the 1% tax would create an $800,000 deficit in the budget, potentially taking away money used for police department expenses and day-to-day city operations.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Johnson
  - **Evidence:** “Johnson, where this is an opportunity for us to save our taxpayers that 1% as Illinois has done away with it again we say no we are not going to save you that money we are going to continue to take it please know who who is for this who has seconded it who had made the motion for it to even move forward that we we got to stop taking people's money and if this is an opportunity to save people Hull, then we should take it. Any other discussion? Alderman Johnson? It's not really that we want to keep taking people's money. The problem is, it will put a deficit of $800,000 in our budget that we are using now, which means that it could take away the money that we pay for our police department, it could We can take away money that we pay for our expenses of every day to operate. It can take money away from every department in the city. That's what the money's being used for now. So without it, where do we get the $800,000 deficit that we're going to have if we don't continue it?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [30:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1820s)

- **Fire Capital Improvement Fund allocation details**
  - **Summary:** The money comes from the Fire Capital Improvement Fund, which is allocated for capital purchases. The city takes 54 percent of ambulance billing revenue generated into this fund each year to supplement the general fund.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “Chief, you, Chief Miller, you said that this money already comes out of a budget that is for replacement of vehicles. Correct? Yes, that's correct. It's the Fire Capital Improvement Fund, which is allocated for capital purchases, such as vehicles, hose, turnout gear, things of a higher budget consideration. ... The money that ambulance billing generates goes into the fire capital improvement fund and each year in the fall The city will will take 54 percent of that fund and allocate that to the general fund. So We're actually Supplementing the general fund. We're not tapping into it.”

- **Cost comparison of response vehicle vs. regular family car**
  - **Summary:** The speaker detailed the cost difference between a stripped-down regular Chevy Tahoe (over $61,000) and the specialized police package response vehicle ($52,714.20 for Iowa state contract), noting the response vehicle is substantially less expensive.
  - **Evidence:** “So looking at costs for this vehicle, checking locally, we went to Bakker Auto Group. Their cost for a very stripped down regular Chevy Tahoe that any one of us would purchase for our families, not a response vehicle that was $61,000 plus the fees for title and processing and all that. So for a police package response vehicle designed and built for this intention here, pre-wired for light sirens and emergency equipment from the factory, the state, Illinois state purchasing contract for that vehicle was miles Chevrolet indicator, that quote was $58,028. And then Iowa State Purchasing Contract for that same exact response vehicle designed for this use was $52,714.20.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [36:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2165s)

- **Condition and capacity of current equipment storage in vehicles**
  - **Summary:** The speaker noted that the shift commanders' vehicle is overcrowded with unsecured equipment from floor to ceiling, back seat, and passenger seat, deeming it almost dangerous.
  - **Evidence:** “And then also the shift commanders, there's not one seated surface of that vehicle that's open. There's things stacked from the floor to the ceiling and the back and the back seat and also the passenger seat. So in my opinion, it's almost dangerous for as much equipment as they have unsecured in that tiny vehicle.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [37:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2239s)

- **Cost difference definition between non-response and response vehicles**
  - **Summary:** A council member requested a clear definition of the cost difference between a standard vehicle and a specialized response vehicle, anticipating a major increase in cost for the latter.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Johnson
  - **Evidence:** “My thing is to do I like for you to define to us the difference between the price tags of a non-response vehicle and a response and I have a question for you. I know that you are talking about a response vehicle. What is the cost difference in the two? I know there is going to be a major increase when we are talking about a response vehicle. It is going to go into thousands, more so that it probably almost exceeds the price of the vehicle.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [37:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2258s)

- **Comparison details: Standard vs. Response Vehicle Costs and Features**
  - **Summary:** The speaker confirmed a regular Tahoe costs over $61,000, while the specialized response vehicle is $52,714, which is almost $8,000 cheaper than the family car, despite being built for emergency use.
  - **Evidence:** “Certainly. So, once again, the regular, I guess, standard vehicle that any person could buy from a car dealership. This example is Bakker Auto Group. So, for a regular script on Tahoe, meaning it still has carpet. Carpet. It still has satellite radio. It has more options than a response vehicle. The cost of that vehicle is more than $61,000. So what we are seeking to purchase is a response vehicle that is built and designed for emergency responses. Specifically, again, it's wired from the factory for lights, sirens, radios. It has larger brakes for emergency stopping. It has a larger alternator for all the electronic components it has to power. It comes with two batteries, one for the motor, one for all the electrical components. It is rated it, and designed to be a response vehicle, substantially less than Substantially less than the family car, the one that we're requesting is $52,714, so it's almost $8,000 cheaper than what we would be getting for a regular family car, so this is a benefit to the city, and the quote that's in there, it reflects and demonstrates discounts that are given to the city because it's a municipal purchase, it's not a public person purchase.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2339s)

- **Allocation of ambulance call revenue funds**
  - **Summary:** A council member questioned why 54 percent of the ambulance calls revenue goes into the general fund when it was set up by ordinance to supplement the general fund for offset purposes.
  - **Evidence:** “What I don't understand is why 54 percent goes into the general fund if it's from the ambulance calls, the medical calls. That's been set up by ordinance to supplement the general fund. It helps offset our salaries, our benefits, some of our station maintenance. So, it contributes to the general fund for other uses within the city.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [41:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2477s)

- **Vehicle type suitability for equipment storage**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Johnson stated that only certain vehicles can accommodate all necessary equipment, and the Tahoe is required due to the volume of gear carried by shift commanders.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Johnson
  - **Evidence:** “Chief Miller, I just was under the understanding also that there's only certain vehicles that you can use for all the equipment that you have, and this is one of them. The main one is Tahoe that would need to be used because there's so much equipment. I mean you showed me when I went to the police department all the equipment they have to carry and it was very cramped in that Vehicle that it currently is in so yes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [41:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2514s)

- **Benefits of specialized response vehicles over modified civilian cars**
  - **Summary:** The speaker explained that modern built response vehicles are superior to older, modified civilian cars because they have adequate electrical components, braking systems, and transmissions designed for emergency use.
  - **Evidence:** “Years ago, many years ago, before they had such built response vehicles, we would go to a car dealership, buy something off the lot, and put light sirens and radios in that kind of car. It's not built for that kind of use. It's not built for that kind of response. The electrical components were not adequate. The braking system was not adequate. And Transmission Cooler. So, they've come a long way with designing vehicles to last for this intended use.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [42:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2567s)

- **Clarification on Water Main Scope and Costs for Open Bible Area**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the water main scope, confirming it is for the area heading west to Open Bible, noting prior payment of $69,000 to Director Stegall for design, and subsequent cost for T&Ms/engineering.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Stacey
  - **Evidence:** “To keep it straight and simple, first of all, We're talking about the school, Open Bible. This is the water main for Open Bible. Am I correct? It would be the water main heading west that includes multiple residents and ends at Open Bible. Open Bible. And we've already paid Director Stegall $69,000 to design it. And so now we're are going to be paying him another $63,850 to do the T&Ms and to be the engineer contractor on this project.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [45:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2718s)

- **Funding Status of Open Bible Water Main Project**
  - **Summary:** A question was raised regarding grant funding for the water main project; it was confirmed that no grants were received but the cost came in about $250,000 below estimate.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Stacey
  - **Evidence:** “How much money, you know, you were talking about you were seeking grants for this project. How much money did we actually receive for this water main event? Older person Stacey, we did seek grants. We did not receive grants for this one. However, this came in about $250,000 below estimate, and it's quite a value to get this much water main done for what it's going to cost.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [46:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2780s)

- **Reason for Cost Savings on Water Mains**
  - **Summary:** It was explained that all bids this year came in under estimate due to good pricing and a slight decrease in general water main material costs since the post-COVID years.
  - **Attribution:** Darren
  - **Evidence:** “All of our bids this year came in under estimate for the complete water main projects. We've got really good pricing this year. Water main material cost in general has come down slightly from kind of the post COVID years. And so prices were more advantageous. So if I go back to the other three water main projects, I think in a total they were about a half a million dollars under what we estimated for those projects as well. So that's been a kind of a trend here in 2025.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [47:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2858s)

- **Contracting Entity Clarification for Fehr Graham Services**
  - **Summary:** Clarification was provided that the contract is with the employer, Fehr Graham, not Mr. Steekle.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Shadle
  - **Evidence:** “I just for clarity would like to mention that however Mr. Steekle is probably a very valued employee at Fehr Graham. He is not the one that we're making a contract with. We're making it with his employer Fehr Graham.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [47:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2874s)

- **Council Oversight on Water Main Extension Issues**
  - **Summary:** A council member expressed concern that the matter of water main extension has been brought before the council multiple times without a resolution.
  - **Attribution:** Alderman Sam
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sam? Yeah, I just want to announce that there's a failure on the council to not look into this matter because it has been before us three times now and we had not come up with a resolution. Matter of fact, as far as I was, as far as because my understanding is it was thrown out of here and we didn't have a vote on it or it was suspended or something to that nature, but my point, the reason why I'm bringing this up is because this has been rewritten, this has been before us, but now it has a different scenario going on for extension to accommodate this Bible solution or problem that we have been having.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2900s)

- **Water main extension and Bible study inclusion**
  - **Summary:** The speaker questioned the process for proposing the water main extension to accommodate the Bible study, noting it is being proposed for the third time without clarity.
  - **Attribution:** Dovie
  - **Evidence:** “And my question would be is, how do we come to that factor? Who's coming up with the consultation between the group of people that design in this and coming up with the fact that we're making this proposal?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [49:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2977s)

- **Council involvement on project proposals**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated that if a proposal is being made for the third time, the council should not weigh in or suspend it until complete clarity is achieved.
  - **Attribution:** Dovie
  - **Evidence:** “We're making this proposal for the third time, and if that is the case, then I feel that the council should not weigh in on this or suspend this or throw it back out of here again until we get some complete clarity. There is no clarity here,”
  - **Source timestamp:** [49:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2991s)

- **Concerns about proposal facilitation**
  - **Summary:** The speaker expressed concern that the process seems to be facilitating an objective from 'the back door' and compromised the whole thing.
  - **Attribution:** Dovie
  - **Evidence:** “because what I'm looking at is that we're coming from the back door trying to facilitate another objective, and that's my hope. That's my opinion. I feel that it has compromised the whole thing for this to be brought before us again.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3005s)

- **Engineering services charges related to Bible study extension**
  - **Summary:** The speaker found it suspicious regarding the charging for extra engineering services included with the Bible study as an extension.
  - **Attribution:** Dovie
  - **Evidence:** “I like to see how much we're being charged for this extra engineering services that is being provided with this also being an inclusion with the Bible study as an extension, because it sounds very fishy to me, and I don't like what it is doing,”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3027s)

- **Project history and council action**
  - **Summary:** A speaker recounted that the City Council voted to design, permit, put out to bid, and award a contract for the project.
  - **Attribution:** Don
  - **Evidence:** “Sure. So I'll recap. The City Council voted to design this project. We designed it. The City Council voted to permit it. We permitted it. The City Council voted to put it out to bid. We put it out to bid. We have a contract to award to Helm to do the job and this is the construction engineering contract for it and it's the first time it's been to council.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [51:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3085s)

- **Scope change regarding Westward extension**
  - **Summary:** A speaker noted that the current proposal involves a whole different project with an inclusion of the Bible study extension, which is another extension.
  - **Attribution:** Don
  - **Evidence:** “No it has not been the first time because this is a whole different project with the extension of including the water main along with this project that would extend to the Bible study. And so on. That's what I'm seeing right now, because my question is, we did not come up with the Bradmar, I'm looking at this thing, the other portion of this, Westward, from Bradmar, and i got this, I'm looking at my wrong notes, but the thing about it is, it's a whole different project with an inclusion of the Bible study extension, it's another extension.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [51:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3114s)

- **Council input on new proposal components**
  - **Summary:** The speaker asserted that the council was not informed about the westward addition or Bible study inclusion until this presentation.
  - **Attribution:** Don
  - **Evidence:** “And to get this even started, the council has no clue that this projection is even being presented or proposal being presented to the council and you saying that it's the first time? No, it's another scenario. Yes, the scenario is the first part of it has been, it is the first time, but the fact that, yeah, the westward thing that we're talking about to add on the Bible. That's the first time.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3159s)

- **Need for council discussion on extensions**
  - **Summary:** The speaker emphasized that any addition related to the Bible study extension should not happen without prior council discussion.
  - **Attribution:** Don
  - **Evidence:** “But we had gone over the extension from the Bible study already two times. Now we're going to add it coming in at the back door. That should not ever happen without the discussion of the council. I don't care how we get there, but the council needs to be able to talk about it and discuss it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3159s)

- **Council approval history for project stages**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated that nothing has happened without prior council approval regarding bidding on the project.
  - **Attribution:** Don
  - **Evidence:** “Nothing's been done without the council approval. The record will show that it's been voted Bid on every time and pass the council to move forward to this project point.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [53:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3208s)

- **Water service extension and grant funding status**
  - **Summary:** The council discussed the water main extension project, noting that the sitting council (with the exception of Linda at the last vote) moved it forward to bid. A representative stated they applied for every available grant for Watermain but have not received any funds, mentioning a $4 million withdrawal from city funds previously anticipated.
  - **Evidence:** “I don't know if Dovie has those records, but this council, the sitting council here, with the exception of Linda at the last vote, moved this forward to bid. And so we, the bid, this is the construction engineering part. The bid is later in the agenda based on the way the agendas are wrote... So as we promised, I believe it was Alderwood and Stacy that asked, we have applied for every grant that has been available for Watermain. We have not received any. We've received a lot of grants. Even Mr. Sorensen's money that was appropriated to Freeport with the presidential change, all of those funds were pulled back, which was $4 million from the city that we were anticipating for this year.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [54:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3265s)

- **Fire department concerns regarding water service extension**
  - **Summary:** Chief Miller expressed concern that extending water service to the western edge of the city would require seven more fire hydrants, potentially straining the available water supply for firefighting apparatus.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “but our concerns are with the fire department, that extension represents seven more fire hydrants. I carry about 800 feet of five inch holes, which is our considered above ground water main on each truck. So if we had an incident anywhere in that area, whether it be a institution or residential, we would be scrambling for a water supply sufficient enough to feed our apparatus and effectively extinguish any fires out that way.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [55:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3320s)

- **Funding source for unexpected project costs**
  - **Summary:** A question was raised regarding the source of funds if unexpectedly costs arise during the project.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Stacey. So if they were to get into this project and something unexpectedly came up, where would that money come from? This is for engineering, so they're telling us that's what it's going to cost to engineer the project and to complete the project for this. And to complete the project for the city.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [59:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3566s)

- **Airport lighting system electrical costs**
  - **Summary:** A concern was raised about significantly expensive electrical bills at the airport due to the current non-functioning lighting system, which requires leaving lights on overnight.
  - **Evidence:** “I just want to add one thing and Rob's point is we are currently having quite a few issues with the lighting system out there. Manager Jansen's here, but we've been having significantly expensive electrical bills out at the airport because they're not working properly and we have to leave them on overnight and so the new system will alleviate some of that issue.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [59:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3590s)

- **Manual management of airport lighting system**
  - **Summary:** A suggestion was made to address high electrical costs by manually turning off lights when not needed, or having staff manage the system until repairs are complete.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sanders? Yeah. Is there a way that we can address that issue by manually turning those lights off when not needed, necessarily needed? Is there any reason why we can't be in a, you know, have someone to manage all of that lighting system out there the proper way until we get the system back up and going?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:00:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3651s)

- **City funding for airport operations**
  - **Summary:** A question was raised questioning why the city is paying for the airport, as it is not listed in the city's strategic plan.
  - **Evidence:** “I just want to state that, you know, why is the city paying for the airport? It's not a part of our strategic plan for development. Nowhere on the strategic planning document on the city page is there anything about the airport in our strategic plan even listed. Why is that, City Manager Boyer?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:01:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3718s)

- **Airport master plan and funding necessity**
  - **Summary:** It was stated that the airport has its own master plan, and federal grant money requires keeping the airport up to federal standards or facing repayment obligations.
  - **Evidence:** “I would just like to remind everybody that the airport has its own master plan and this is part of the airport's master plan of replacement. That's why we're getting so much grant funding towards it and I think we talked about this before with the resealing of the pavement but we have taken quite a bit of money in federal grants towards the airport and we need to keep the airport up to federal standards or we will end up having to pay that money back over time.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:02:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3776s)

- **PAPI system status at airport**
  - **Summary:** It was confirmed that the PAPI system is not working and parts are no longer available, which could potentially shut down the airport.
  - **Evidence:** “Kirk. So that's bottom line. That is the ramifications of it. As it stands right now, Darren was correct in a lot of what he was saying. Our, actually the PAPI system right now is not working at all. So it is, like it was said, that we cannot, we cannot make, there's not parts for it anymore.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:03:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3838s)

- **Usability of airport systems**
  - **Summary:** Confirmation was given that the PAPI system is currently unusable and replacement efforts are underway.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Johnson? So it's not usable right at this moment? That is correct. Is that what you're saying? Yeah, we're in, that's why this is in the process of trying to get the new ones.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:04:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3874s)

- **Project timeline for airport improvements**
  - **Summary:** The project completion is expected next year, though it might be moved up; however, state and federal attention focuses on the process being underway.
  - **Evidence:** “Alderman Sellers? You just want to know, how long would this project take to get done, to get you back into. So it's actually, because of everything with the bid letting and stuff like that, it's supposed to be completed, I believe. Manager Boyer ended up saying that, I believe it's next year. And sometimes it does get moved up a little quicker, we can always cross our fingers, but it will be as of next year. The thing is, is what the state looks at and the feds look at, is at least it's in the process.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:04:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3883s)

- **Budgetary status of airport project**
  - **Summary:** It was confirmed that the city's portion of the project is budgeted, and grant funding has already been secured.
  - **Evidence:** “Is this project budgeted? Yeah, the city's portion. We have the grants and everything for this. The grants are already done, yep.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:05:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=3927s)

- **Concerns regarding water main replacement resolution**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Sanders questioned the basis for the resolution, noting that previous discussions were needed on how to reach the current position and questioning why a specific water main in the Bradmar location needs replacement.
  - **Evidence:** “Discussion on the bid? Alderman Sanders? Yeah, it goes back to where we started with this whole conversation. I think we were back two resolutions ago that this resolution should not pass simply because we still don't have a resolution for how we even got to this position of having a new one.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:10:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4256s)

- **Water main replacement scope and city limits**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Sanders questioned the process regarding water mains extending from one section through all the way to the city limits, noting that the council had not discussed these matters.
  - **Evidence:** “I didn't know what protocol is for replacement of water main, but I didn't know replacement of water main start at one section and then goes all the and John. And I think that's the way to the city limits... The other thing that bothers me is the fact that it all is coming back to the city limits.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:11:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4283s)

- **Process for bidding on water main replacement**
  - **Summary:** Alderman Sanders expressed concern about bringing a bid before council without prior discussion on how the project reached its current state.
  - **Evidence:** “So I think we should be trying to approve a bidding opening for anything at this point when it's in this kind of form and being brought to the council for an approval. I don't get that.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:13:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4431s)

- **Water main existence status**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated the water main does not even exist, meaning nothing is being replaced.
  - **Evidence:** “So just to let you know that the water main doesn't even exist. So we're not replacing anything.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:16:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4593s)

- **Origin of initial water service agreement**
  - **Summary:** The community director was told 25 years ago that the city would take care of getting water out there, and this was never brought to the council floor.
  - **Evidence:** “All of this mix up and confusion started when it was brought to the council because 25 years ago, let's put that out there, whoever the community director was told the principle of Open Bible that the city would take care of them getting water out there. It was never brought to the council floor. It was never dealt with nor talked about on the council floor.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:17:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4666s)

- **Timeline for sprinkler system compliance**
  - **Summary:** The facility was given a grace period after being busted at the last inspection for not having a working water sprinkler, which ended in March.
  - **Evidence:** “And so where we had spoke about this in 2024 and where it had even fell on vote, then once you got reelected, Mayor Miller, everything came back up again because you would have have the votes to push you to and pass it.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:19:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4745s)

- **Water main routing discrepancy**
  - **Summary:** The speaker questioned why the water main numbers are listed at different locations (e.g., 14 or 15 or 16 versus 18) instead of being sequential.
  - **Evidence:** “Now it's West whatever. Now it's West, whatever, but why couldn't both of those numbers be put back to back? Why is one up here in 14 or 15 or 16 and then one down here at 18?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:19:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4745s)

- **Requirement for water main discussion paperwork**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated that to discuss a replacement or even mention Huffines, the city needs to see the paperwork supporting it, including a resolution for water main evaluation, analysis, and updates.
  - **Evidence:** “to do a replacement, to even discuss Huffines. We need to see the paperwork that brought that into view, that a resolution for water main evaluation, analysis, updates, and the reason why,”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:20:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4836s)

- **Water main evaluation and funding requirements**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the need for paperwork supporting a resolution for water main evaluation, analysis, updates, and the necessity of knowing if funds are available before proceeding.
  - **Evidence:** “We need to see the paperwork that brought that into view, that a resolution for water main evaluation, analysis, updates, and the reason why, because everything is scheduled. Water mains are usually scheduled throughout the year, decades, or whatever the case is for new upgrades and all these kinds of things.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:21:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4875s)

- **City Clerk's role in recording past council decisions**
  - **Summary:** A request that the city clerk reiterate what was approved and not approved during previous meetings.
  - **Evidence:** “If we're gonna talk about this, then the city clerk should be talking about what it was that we approved and did not approve of. We should be able to reiterate all of those things that we talked about the first two-three meetings and the disagreements of why we didn't want to approve that first extension to the Bible study.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:21:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4919s)

- **Water main data requirement for Bradmar sector**
  - **Summary:** A statement asserting that a study is needed to provide data showing water main issues requiring replacement in the Bradmar sector before an informed decision can be made.
  - **Evidence:** “But first of all, we have not discussed the fact that it matter whether or not the Bradmar and John. We have not discussed that. Who does the study? And get all the data and the information that shows us that we are having water main issues that needs to be replaced in the Bradmar sector.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:22:32](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4952s)

- **Funding mechanism for water main payments**
  - **Summary:** A concern raised about who will cover bills if monies are unavailable.
  - **Evidence:** “so my whole thing is what are we going to do when it comes to making these payments who's for who's going to take who's going to cover the bill when we don't have the monies”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:22:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4964s)

- **Previous discussion on water main extension cost**
  - **Summary:** A recollection of a previous discussion regarding the cost to extend a water main from one intersection to the Bible study, estimated at $1.2 million.
  - **Evidence:** “We talked millions of dollars just to extend that water main to the, yes, we did. We talked about, I remember that real clearly, that we talked, it was about 1.2 million dollars to extend it from one intersection to the Bible study.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:22:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=4964s)

- **Review of prior discussions before proceeding with bids**
  - **Summary:** A statement refusing to accept any information until a review of previously discussed matters is completed.
  - **Evidence:** “from this point on, I'm not accepting anything that is being said until we have had an opportunity to review the matters of things that we have discussed”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:23:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5025s)

- **Water main existence west of Brandmark**
  - **Summary:** A clarification that no water main currently exists west of Brandmark; it is an unserved area.
  - **Evidence:** “There is no water main or no study to do going to the west of Brandmark because water main does not exist there currently and has never existed. It's an area of town that is unserved.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:24:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5064s)

- **History of Bradmar water main project approval stages**
  - **Summary:** A timeline detailing that the Bradmar water main project was denied, then approved for design, permitted, and bid at council approval.
  - **Evidence:** “last year I believe it was last year in the year before we replaced the water mine at Bradmar in town as part of the city project this project came to the council the first time it was denied it was brought back it was approved to design we designed it we permitted it with councils approval we bid it at council approval”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:24:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5090s)

- **Grant eligibility for water main project**
  - **Summary:** A statement suggesting the project scope might not qualify for large grant funding.
  - **Evidence:** “Unfortunately, it's not a project that really qualifies. It's not that big of a project in the scope of a big, large water main project.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:26:06](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5166s)

- **CDBG grant deadline information**
  - **Summary:** A follow-up discussion regarding the deadline for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application.
  - **Evidence:** “I would like the deadline that had to have been turned in by as well. Sure, it would have been. Because we've been working on this for a year. So it would have been last cycle, which would have been, I'll have to look it up. But it was the end of 2024 for CBBG.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:26:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5196s)

- **Community development grant deadline**
  - **Summary:** The deadline for the community development grant was at the end of 2024 for CBBG.
  - **Evidence:** “But it was the end of 2024 for CBBG. It's only offered once a year.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:26:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5211s)

- **Discipline of Telecommunicator**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated that a member was disciplined for voicing concerns regarding city policy on emergency calls when no ambulances were available.
  - **Evidence:** “But that does not mean that there are always two telecommunicators dispatching emergency calls. During their shift when a telecommunicator takes their contractually obligated break or lunch, there is a telecommunicator actively responding to 911 calls, answering the non-emergency phone line, and assisting citizens at the front window. It is the policy of the city that when an emergency medical 911 call comes in and there are no available ambulances in the city, that 911 dispatchers have been instructed to place those emergency calls on hold to reach out to a third party medical provider.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:33:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5639s)

- **Labor Dispute Resolution**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated willingness to resolve the issue through grievance procedure or file an unfair labor charge with the Illinois Labor Relations Board.
  - **Evidence:** “The local and myself are more than willing to resolve this issue within the grievance procedure, but if that's not the case, then we are and we will be prepared to file an unfair labor charge with the Illinois Labor Relations Board”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:36:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5778s)

- **Alderman Johnson's concern about city funding vs. citizen burden**
  - **Summary:** A speaker addressed Alderman Johnson regarding his worry about the city of Freeport versus the citizens who must pay extra money.
  - **Attribution:** Cheryl Altman
  - **Evidence:** “Good evening again, my name is Cheryl Altman. Alderman Johnson, when we were talking about the 1%, you know what I heard? I heard you say you were worried about the city of Freeport. I didn't hear you say you were worried about the citizens who are going to have to pay that extra money again. Not once did you care about the citizens who put you in that seat. You're wrong.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:51:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6680s)

- **Public awareness of political maneuvering**
  - **Summary:** A speaker stated that people are catching up to perceived 'sneaky little crap' regarding city governance.
  - **Evidence:** “Mayor, you can smell all you want but you know what? People are catching up to you. They're onto your sneaky little crap.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:53:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6783s)

- **Tax tax relief and subsequent tax proposals**
  - **Summary:** A speaker noted that Governor Pritzker lifted the 1% tax for breathing room but questioned who put it back on, suggesting the responsible party was not the Democrats.
  - **Evidence:** “I Thank God that Governor Pritzker lifted that 1% tax. I'm not so happy that y'all are gonna be putting it back on. That's because when you are looking at taxes, when you did your 3% tax, it was a little bit different in the city. It was a little bit different climate. People weren't losing their jobs like crazy. People weren't having companies closed like little dominoes. That's happening now. That's happening. That's why the governor took the 1% off the grocery tax to give the people a little bit of breathing room. And by God, who put the tax back on? It surely wasn't the Democrat. It surely wasn't Governor Pritzker. It was the party that says the Democrats tax like crazy.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:53:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6832s)

- **Reviewing city savings and pet projects**
  - **Summary:** A speaker suggested looking at existing savings or postponing 'pet projects' until the economy improves.
  - **Evidence:** “Maybe we could look at that. Maybe we could look at other pet projects that maybe shouldn't be done and put them off to the side at least until the country gets back on its feet. We get back on our feet. Maybe some people get different jobs or jobs actually start to come back into the market.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:54:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6879s)

- **Parking lot closure and ADA access**
  - **Summary:** A speaker requested that the parking lot remain open until Thursday due to four handicapped spots.
  - **Evidence:** “By closing that parking lot down there as early as you did, which was because we're going to have Teddy Baker Day starting on Friday, you close the parking lot off to everybody today. Yes, they wanted to park their little stuff in there, but we could wait until Thursday because there's four handicapped parking spots, one that has two of them that have a crater the size of the moon, but there are four there and you block them off to the public. So to the ADA grievance board, please, will you open the parking lot till maybe Thursday? Thank you very much.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:55:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6913s)

- **Legal threats regarding city management fees**
  - **Summary:** A speaker warned a council member about potential legal action concerning the handling of funds.
  - **Evidence:** “Rob, I want you to keep my lawyer's name in my name out your mouth, okay? That lawsuit sticking, whatever you think. You ain't a lawyer, are you?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:59:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=7150s)

- **City manager compensation and efficiency**
  - **Summary:** A speaker questioned the necessity of paying the city manager $90,000 for administrative tasks.
  - **Evidence:** “We are paying $90,000 for you to scribble on some paper, give me $90,000. I can get you a lot of money.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:59:16](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=7156s)

- **Threat of further legal action regarding harassment**
  - **Summary:** A speaker threatened to add harassment charges to an existing lawsuit if certain actions continued.
  - **Evidence:** “I inbox Rob, inbox Jodi, Wayne if you dot Iroquois again, I'm going to add harassment to my lawsuit.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:59:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=7182s)

## Public Comment

- **Airport funding concerns**
  - **Summary:** Speaker expressed concern over proposed $640,000 expenditure on the airport, questioning the source of funds.
  - **Evidence:** “Hello, I'm Rhonda Scott, 134 North Harlem, and I'm here to speak about the airport. We have a resolution being proposed to spend $640,000 on the airport, most of which will come from a grant.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=210s)

- **Taxation concerns regarding food tax and local shopping**
  - **Summary:** Speaker expressed concern about adding a 1% food tax and stated intent to shop elsewhere due to taxes.
  - **Evidence:** “Good evening. My name is Cheryl Altman. My first one is number 13 about trying to add a 1% food tax. You already got a 1% sales tax on everything else.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [05:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=326s)

- **Property Tax Concerns**
  - **Summary:** A resident expressed horror at the amount of property taxes paid and questioned what specific funds were allocated for various fees.
  - **Evidence:** “I recently paid my property taxes and was horrified by the amount that I am paying. I had a lot of questions about what it is that I am paying.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:36:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5778s)

- **Tax Burden and Sales Tax Comparison**
  - **Summary:** A resident questioned the high tax burden, comparing local sales tax rates to those in Evansville.
  - **Evidence:** “Huffines. We have the 1% proposed tax on groceries. I mentioned that to some friends in Evansville this weekend, and they laughed at me when I told them how much we were paying in sales tax.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:37:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5858s)

- **Tax Transparency Questions**
  - **Summary:** The speaker questioned the purpose of specific taxes like 'home rule tax' and 'Freeport City Corporation tax', and requested clarity on the assessment process.
  - **Evidence:** “As I'm looking at my tax bill, I'm wanting to know what the home rule tax is. What does that money go toward? I've asked and nobody can answer that for me. And what is the, regarding property taxes, Freeport City Corporation tax, what is that?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:38:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5888s)

- **Budget Deficit and Infrastructure Spending**
  - **Summary:** The speaker questioned the existence of a deficit despite taking in tax money and asked where funds were allocated for road improvements.
  - **Evidence:** “You talk about how we are with a 1% tax, we're gonna get, we're gonna bridge the gap of an $800,000 deficit for this budget in this town. Well, for saving money on the water main materials, why is there a deficit? That doesn't make any sense or road improvements.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:38:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5919s)

- **Staff Salary Inquiry**
  - **Summary:** The speaker questioned the salary of JoLynn Miller based on the 2024 Annual Treasurer's Report.
  - **Evidence:** “And who is JoLynn Miller? Who is JoLynn Miller? Because JoLynn Miller is making $100,000 according to the 2024 Annual Treasurer's Report on the Finance Committee website.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:39:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5964s)

- **Tax Rate and Infrastructure Spending Critique**
  - **Summary:** The speaker criticized the continued 1% tax despite population decrease and questioned the spending over a million dollars to extend infrastructure.
  - **Evidence:** “I had to respond to the 1% tax that Alderman Simmons brought up. We are taking money from people. And we have been taking it since 1990... Now it's 2025 and we are paying still the 1% tax, which is producing $800,000. And what are we doing with that money? We're spending over a million dollars to extend our infrastructure out to Open Bible where my daughter went to preschool from 2002 to 2004.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:40:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6013s)

- **Tax revenue and infrastructure spending concerns**
  - **Summary:** A resident questioned the use of $800,000 collected tax revenue, noting over a million dollars is being spent to extend infrastructure to Open Bible despite population decrease to 23,000 people.
  - **Evidence:** “Now it's 2025 and we are paying still the 1% tax, which is producing $800,000. And what are we doing with that money? We're spending over a million dollars to extend our infrastructure out to Open Bible where my daughter went to preschool from 2002 to 2004.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:40:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6031s)

- **Airport funding and utilization questions**
  - **Summary:** A resident questioned why Freeport, with 23,000 people, is funding a regional airport for only 65 individuals and asked how much the utilizing corporate individuals are paying for runway costs and maintenance.
  - **Attribution:** Wendy Pearson
  - **Evidence:** “Why is Freeport with 23,000 people funding a regional airport so that 65 individuals can keep their aircraft out there and we're paying for it with our grocery money? ... I want to know how much they're paying us for runway costs and maintenance and repairs?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:41:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6099s)

- **Water supply agreement at Open Bible**
  - **Summary:** A resident stated that the water supply arrangement for Open Bible was based on a verbal agreement, which is now nonexistent.
  - **Evidence:** “As far as Open Bible is concerned, we don't have a problem with supplying water to individuals who own homes and are paying taxes as well. 20 Years ago, 30 years ago, when you had a verbal agreement with nothing on paper stating that this is what we were supposed to be doing and promising those individuals out at Open Bible, initially there were, and I think something was left out, initially they were talking about there was something in writing, they never could find it. So it's nonexistent.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:43:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6197s)

- **Tariff tax on new vehicles**
  - **Summary:** A resident requested clarification on how much of the cost for a new vehicle is attributable to tariffs placed by the Washington, D.C.'s administration.
  - **Evidence:** “I'd like to know how much of that money is a tariff tax that has been placed on vehicles and how much of it are we paying?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:44:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6290s)

- **Grant money accountability for airport and downtown projects**
  - **Summary:** A resident questioned the status of grant money allocated for a $32,000 airport expense and other funds like $1.7 million for a building downtown and $400,000 for safe streets.
  - **Evidence:** “Since you've put 32,000 We've given you $32,000 and I'm looking at you, and are we getting our money back? No? ... And then we've also had 1.7 million dollars for what a building downtown to be torn down and it's still there and where is the money then we also had four hundred thousand dollars for safe streets where is the money so I want to know why you guys don't have itemized grant lists what happens with the grant money itemized on your website Sight.”

- **Festival proceeds accountability**
  - **Summary:** A resident questioned who benefits from the proceeds of Teddy Baker's festival before the Stephenson County Fair, asking where the money goes.
  - **Attribution:** Kim Sims
  - **Evidence:** “I was wondering about Teddy Bakers. Does anybody know who brought Teddy Baker back, this festival, they're putting before the Stephenson County Fair? Why are we doing that? Because the Stephenson County Fair is what gives our kids scholarships and all that. But what does Teddy Baker give them? Who gets all the money from Teddy Baker? Where did the proceeds go?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:47:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6453s)

- **Stephenson County Fair funding and proceeds**
  - **Summary:** A speaker questioned where the money from Teddy Baker and Tutti Baker proceeded to, stating that nobody knows where the money goes.
  - **Evidence:** “Why are we doing that? Because the Stephenson County Fair is what gives our kids scholarships and all that. But what does Teddy Baker give them? Who gets all the money from Teddy Baker? Where did the proceeds go? Can you tell me that? Where did the proceeds go from Tutti Baker? Did somebody answer that? It's not here. No? Okay, so nobody knows where the money goes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:47:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6478s)

- **AI for government transparency and accountability**
  - **Summary:** A speaker proposed using Artificial Intelligence to monitor decision making at the top in government, ensuring fund allocation and tracking promises to promote public good.
  - **Attribution:** Paige Kerr
  - **Evidence:** “Over the past few months, I've brought concerns to this council, especially around the relationship between certain members and perceived conflict of interest. But tonight, I'm here with a solution. Artificial intelligence. Now before that phrase makes anyone uneasy, I want to say something I believe to be true. I have a feeling some of you sitting here today already know AI is coming. Maybe you've seen early reports, maybe you've been part of the conversations. So this isn't about pushing a radical idea, it's about guiding what's already unfolding. Let's use AI to promote accountability where it matters most. Not to surveil everyday citizens, but to monitor decision making at the top.”

- **AI monitoring capabilities and grants**
  - **Summary:** A speaker detailed how AI can be used for public dashboards showing city money allocation gaps, triaging complaints (like broken street lights near schools), and mentioned that Congress is proposing $55 million in AI capacity grants.
  - **Evidence:** “Imagine public dashboards visually showing where city money is going and where the gaps exist. Just for an example, residents could see that one neighborhood received three times more funding for road repairs rather than another, prompting clear data-backed decisions. Not only that, but but AI can triage complaints from the public, prioritize the most urgent ones like a broken street light near a school and even predict maintenance needs before they arise. But above all else, AI is an unbiased tool, one that can enhance your positions, hold you accountable and begin to win back public trust. And understand this, we're not jumping into the unknown. Congress is proposing 55 million in AI capacity grants to help cities responsibly experiment with these tools.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:50:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6613s)

- **Concerns regarding tax increases and city finances**
  - **Summary:** A speaker expressed concern over the potential for tax increases, noting that a previous 3% tax was different from current conditions due to job losses.
  - **Attribution:** Sue Cook
  - **Evidence:** “I'm not so happy that y'all are gonna be putting it back on. That's because when you are looking at taxes, when you did your 3% tax, it was a little bit different in the city. It was a little bit different climate. People weren't losing their jobs like crazy. People weren't having companies closed like little dominoes. That's happening now. That's happening.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:53:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6832s)

- **ADA parking lot access request**
  - **Summary:** A speaker requested that the ADA grievance board keep the parking lot open until Thursday, citing four handicapped parking spots that were blocked off to the public.
  - **Evidence:** “By closing that parking lot down there as early as you did, which was because we're going to have Teddy Baker Day starting on Friday, you close the parking lot off to everybody today. Yes, they wanted to park their little stuff in there, but we could wait until Thursday because there's four handicapped parking spots, one that has two of them that have a crater the size of the moon, but there are four there and you block them off to the public. So to the ADA grievance board, please, will you open the parking lot till maybe Thursday?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:55:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6913s)

- **General concerns regarding cost of living and taxes in Freeport**
  - **Summary:** A resident expressed frustration over rising property taxes, high rental costs, and general economic struggles compared to other areas.
  - **Evidence:** “How many times do us as citizens have to get up, stand in front of this council, stand in front of our mayor and say, hey, it really sucks to live here. Property taxes are going up. Every place we have to rent is either a slum lord or it's skyrocketed out of the roof. This is not Chicago by any means. No one should be paying over $1,000 for an apartment. That's a little crazy. And every day we wake up and there's a new tax.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:56:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6986s)

- **Call for council attention to local needs versus wealthy interests**
  - **Summary:** A speaker urged the council to focus on the needs of the general populace rather than catering only to top-tier rich people.
  - **Evidence:** “When are you actually going to listen to the people and what we need and not the top tier rich people in this city? Because I promise you, there's a lot more of a slum in it than it is with full bank accounts. And I think we've kind of forgotten the plot here.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:57:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=7039s)

- **Plea for council to listen to constituents**
  - **Summary:** A speaker addressed the council, stating that the group matters more and that they expected to be taken care of.
  - **Evidence:** “And Jodi. This group matters more than this group. You're supposed to listen to us. We voted you in, and we expected to be taken care of.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:57:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=7056s)

## Proclamations and Recognitions

- **Service Award for Doug Van Horn**
  - **Summary:** The city recognized Doug Van Horn for 20 years of service.
  - **Evidence:** “Item number three is the recognition of service awards. Manager Boyer. Thank you, your honor. Tonight we celebrate Doug Van Horn who's been with the city for 20 years and we just want to thank him.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=181s)

- **Resource Party Attendance**
  - **Summary:** Thanked everyone who participated in the resource party at the Church on the Street put by High Hope Freeport.
  - **Evidence:** “And I just wanted to thank everyone that participated in the resource party in the Church on the Street put by High Hope Freeport.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:33:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=5597s)

- **ADA grievance board creation**
  - **Summary:** A speaker thanked the council for creating the ADA grievance board.
  - **Evidence:** “The other thing I want to say is thank you for creating the ADA grievance board. Is amazing and I have your first grievance.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:54:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=6879s)

## Follow-ups

- **Filing deadline for local ordinance adoption**
  - **Summary:** Staff recommends adopting the 1% grocery tax ordinance in July and filing with the Illinois Department of Revenue in October, that is the deadline, to have it introduced in January.
  - **Evidence:** “So staff recommends adopting the 1% grocery tax ordinance in July and filing with the Illinois Department of Revenue in October, that is the deadline, to have it introduced in January.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [27:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=1653s)

- **Information regarding vehicle purchase costs and options**
  - **Summary:** The Fire Department confirmed that cost comparisons, including local quotes (e.g., $61,000 for a stripped down Tahoe) and the state contract quote ($58,028), are available in the packet.
  - **Attribution:** Chief Miller
  - **Evidence:** “Adams. Olderman Sanders. Yeah, Chief Miller. Forty-six percent. Do we have the cost and the personnel staff that is going to be utilizing this vehicle? Do we have that available for us and to us where we can evaluate and look into, look We look further to see have we made other options to where we're purchasing this vehicle and how much it would actually cost and is there any discounts along with that or is there any biddings in place for the vehicle so we can even make comparisons? Sure, absolutely. All that information you just cited is in your packet and it's in a memo format and and also the bid costs were on there. So looking at costs for this vehicle, checking locally, we went to Bakker Auto Group. Their cost for a very stripped down regular Chevy Tahoe that any one of us would purchase for our families, not a response vehicle that was $61,000 plus the fees for title and processing and all that. So for a police package response vehicle designed and built for this intention here, pre-wired for light sirens and emergency equipment from the factory, the state, Illinois state purchasing contract for that vehicle was miles Chevrolet indicator, that quote was $58,028.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [35:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9ZowXDEdJU&t=2103s)