WEBVTT

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Good evening, Michelle, could you please give the invocation?

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In Jeremiah 29-7, in the NCV version, it says, pray to the Lord for the city where you are

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living because if good things happen in the city, good things will happen to you also.

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So Lord, we come before you in complete surrender to your will for the city.

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We lay aside all of our own thoughts, ideas, hurts, and mistrusts, and we pray that you

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would show us your will for Freeport, that this city may prosper in all things according

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to your will, and that as Freeport prospers, so do the people that reside here.

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I pray that every word spoken here tonight flows from godly wisdom so that the city can

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accomplish its destiny in you, Jesus.

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I pray that your love saturates this place in every heart and mind here tonight.

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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.

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Thank you. We will officially call this meeting to order. Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll?

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Mayor Miller?

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Here.

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Alderpersons, Klemm?

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Here.

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Johnson?

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Here.

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Simmons is absent.

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Parker?

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Here. Stacy. Here. Shadle. Here. Sanders. Here. And Sellers. Here. If you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Parker.

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Item number one is approval of the agenda is there such a motion? So move. Second. Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes. Approval of the minutes from the regular meeting on June 2nd, 2025. Is there a motion to approve? So move. Second. Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed?

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Post. That motion passes. Item number three is the recognition of service awards. Manager

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Boyer.

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Thank you, Your Honor. Tonight we celebrate Doug Van Horn, who's been with the city for

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20 years, and we just want to thank him. Although he couldn't be here tonight, we want to thank

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him for his service to the city.

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Thank you. Public comments. We have two that are signed in on agenda items. Rhonda Scott.

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Hello, I'm Rhonda Scott, 134 North Harlem, and I'm here to speak about the airport.

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We have a resolution being proposed to spend $640,000 on the airport, most of which will

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come from a grant, but Freeport has to pay its share.

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So when I try and look this up and figure out where's the money coming from, the Freeport

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and the City Manager.

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So the budget for the airport share appears to be $32,000 on an airport.

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It's for rich private plane owners.

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I look on the agenda and I don't really see a line item for the airport.

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We've got several budgets and the airport isn't listed as a budget,

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so there's no way I can tell what's in the fund, where the money's coming from.

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and others.

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We have a lot of questions about how we

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can improve the service when we get to item 16 and discuss the

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airport. When you look at the document that is enclosed, it is

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asking you to approve some engineering services which add

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up to 198,000. Again, where is the money coming from?

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I am really concerned right now because in our country, we have

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and

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John, and we are finding ways to cut those to save money. Yet we are finding ways to

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find money to pay for airports, little teeny airports in our community for the rich. And

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this is very upsetting to me. I hope it is upsetting to members of the audience and the

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taxpayers because I don't know where the money is coming from when Freeport is paying for

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for it. There's 65 aircraft out there. Very few of them are even from Freeport. So I'm

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very concerned about this and I would like an explanation of who's paying for it. Thank

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you.

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Cheryl Altman.

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Good evening. My name is Cheryl Altman. My first one is number 13, about trying to add

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to 1% food tax.

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You already got a 1% sales tax on everything else.

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Do you think the people of Freeport

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can afford any more giving?

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And if you guys vote yes for this, for shame on you.

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Because I can go to Monroe, get cheaper up there,

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everything, tax is cheaper.

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So why would I go to Freeport and shop?

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Matter of fact, I do a lot of business at Menards,

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but I won't do it in Freeport anymore.

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I'm going to Rockford.

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Number 14. You guys want to buy, try to get a new Tahoe for the fire department. First of all, what's the matter with the old ones?

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A new Tahoe can cost anywhere from $62,000 to $82,000. For them to drive home and back and in town, that's ridiculous.

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There's better ways to spend our money, lights, gun control, and all this, than to spend it on stuff that isn't really necessary.

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That concludes public comment.

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If you could please let the record show at 6.05 Alderman Simmons entered.

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Item number five is the Consent Agenda.

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The Consent Agenda considers to be routine in nature and acted as one motion

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unless a member of council would like to have something removed for further discussion.

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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.

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The annual Treasurer Report 2025, the Building Permit Report June 2025, the Police Department Report May 2025, and the Greater Freeport Partnership Report June 2025.

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Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Johnson,

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The motion passes 6-2.

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Number six is a presentation of audit report. Thank you.

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Well, thank you for having me. First, I'd like to thank Michelle and the entire team

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for making this yet another successful audit year. Without their help, this is not possible,

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so thank you. I'm nice to go through the annual financial report with you, which is the thicker

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We're going to go over the packets you received, and if you turn to page one, you'll find our

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Waterbach name and letterhead.

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This is our independent audit report in which we provide a clean, unmodified opinion.

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That's the highest opinion you can receive.

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Basically states that we found no issues with internal controls or the numbers as they are

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presented.

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If you flip about three more pages, you'll run into the Management, Discussion, and Analysis.

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This section really provides a summary of how the year performed in narrative form.

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So if you have questions on fluctuations from year to year, or what the numbers truly mean,

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this is where you want to go to find those answers.

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I'm next going to skip ahead to what would be your individual fund income statement, which

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which begins on page 24.

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About three-quarters of the way down the page you'll notice that the General Fund had an

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Operating Increase of about $6.5 million.

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This was.

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and dollars this was further reduced by transfers out to your debt service grants capital projects

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and your landfill funds so your general fund was left with a net increase of about 1.6 million

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dollars in the current year.

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One other fund I did want to point out to you was the landfill closure fund which is

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Ft. at the bottom of the of page 28 you'll notice that the landfill fund had a

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deficit fund deposition of five million dollars is primarily due to the

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implementation of Gas B-83 which was a few years ago where we now have to put

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with the long-term liability hypothetically would be to retire that

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and Bill, which in the current year was re-evaluated at about $5 million. I will also point out

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that you'll notice that there was a transfer in from the general fund, but it did not cover

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all the expenses for that fund, which made that deficit increase in the current year.

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Where did you say that was? It's on page 28, towards the bottom of that

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We've got landfill closure at the very bottom, $5 million.

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Can you show me?

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Oh, but it doesn't say landfill.

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Yeah, at the top it says landfill closure

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in that last column.

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The next section would be the notes

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of the financial statements,

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which would begin on page 32.

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And the notes really provide further detail

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into how we came up with the figures that we did

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with supporting schedules.

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Within there, you're gonna find your long-term debt

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and your capital asset schedules.

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I'm not gonna go through the notes with you tonight,

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so I'll have you skip ahead all the way to page 92.

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Page 92 is the start of your budgetary information, so if you want to see how a specific fund performed based on what was budgeted, this is where you want to go to see those comparisons.

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Does anyone have any questions on the financial statements before moving on?

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If not, we also provided a second document called the Management Letter.

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We had two current year recommendations.

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The first one is in regards to creating a disaster recovery plan for your information technology.

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And the second document was a recommendation to perform an inventory count over your proprietary sewer fund.

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And of the three prior year recommendations, we'll be working with Michelle and looking for implementation on those in the next year.

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Anyone have any questions?

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Darren did you have something? Yeah, I wanted to clarify something on the landfill fund. Yeah, so my understanding of the net position was

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I guess how you look at it increased because of the future cost of

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Testing and things like that at the landfill that are getting more expensive over the closure time, correct? Correct. Yes. Thank you

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Thank you. Thank you, Don. All right, thank you. Enjoy the rest of your evening. Director Richter, well done to you and your team. So I'll entertain a motion to receive the report and place it on file.

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So moved. Second. The motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll?

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Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, and Johnson.

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The motion is approved 8-0.

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Item number 7 is appointments and reappointments.

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Could you please read these?

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Appointment of Michelle Swalb to the Public Library Board effective through May 31, 2027.

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Appointment to stand up the ADA Compliance Commission effective through May 31, 2029.

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Boyer, City Manager, Pat Ingram, Rachel Leverton, Joyce Sellers, Elizabeth Priller, Megan Ebert,

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and Rebecca Peters.

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Oh I am not done.

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I am so sorry.

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Reappointment of Bobby Yount to the Zoning Board of Appeals effective through June 30th,

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2030 and the reappointment of Abra Palermo to the Zoning Board of Appeals also effective

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through June 30th, 2030.

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Is there a motion to approve?

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So moved.

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Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Simmons? Parker? Stacey? Shadle? Sanders? Sellers? Klemm? Johnson? And the motion passes 8-0.

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Item number 8 is Appointments for FOIA Officers.

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This is just really a recap of all of the existing FOIA Officers, but with the retirement

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of Lieutenant, oh help me, JoLynn Markham, Kurt Schnorr is now also a FOIA Officer at

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the Police Department, as well as Deputy Chief Travis Davis at City Hall, myself, Deputy

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City Clerk, Tabriah Pearson, and Executive Assistant, Michelle Nelson, Fire Department,

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Denise Scudder, Admin Assistant, Hillary Broschus, the Fire Marshal, and at the Library, Ashley

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Huffins as the Director and Kaia Eckert, Administrative Assistant as her backup.

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Thank you.

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Is there a motion to approve?

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So moved.

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Second.

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Second.

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We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Johnson.

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Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Johnson.

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The motion passes 8-0.

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Item number 9 is the second reading of Ordinance 2025-39.

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Ordinance Approving Zoning Map Amendment at 1500 Southwest Avenue, submitted by REA4 asset

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to examine the proposed zoning map change from a B1.1 restricted retail business to a B2.1

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limited service business district.

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Thank you.

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Director Duckman.

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Thank you, Madam Mayor.

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This is the second reading for a zoning map amendment.

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The location would be the old Shopco Optical.

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It's actually between the old Shopco Optical and what's now the Flying Puff.

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And essentially what's going on here, nothing's changed from the last reading.

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So they're looking to go from a B1-2 to a B2-1 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 5-0 with zero abstentions and on June 12th our Planning Commission also recommended approval by a vote of 6-0 with zero abstentions and in line with the Zoning Board of Appeals

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and Planning Commission staff is recommending approval of the ordinance.

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Thank you. Discussion?

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Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Simmons? Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye.

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Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The ordinance passes 8-0.

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Item number 10 is the first reading of ordinance 2025-40. Could you please read this?

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Ordinance providing for additional stop signs at the intersection of Pleasant Street and

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Miami Avenue.

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Thank you.

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Manager Boyer.

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Thank you, Your Honor.

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Staff was notified by two Aldermen, Third Ward and Alderman-at-Large, about an unsafe

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intersection.

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Two stop signs were installed at the intersection of Miami and Pleasant, and staff is asking

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for approval to codify this in our ordinances as all stop sign locations are included in

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in our ordinances.

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Is there a motion to move this forward?

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So move.

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Second.

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Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Klemm.

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You need a motion for suspension of the rules?

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Staff would support that.

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I make that motion.

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Second.

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Second.

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Okay, we have a motion for suspension of the rules made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by

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Alderman, Shadle. Suspension of the rules is non-debatable and must be passed by two-thirds majority. 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 passes 8 to 0. Then before you is the final passage for ordinance 2025-40. If there's any discussion. Alderman, Shadle.

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Which street gets the stop on that? Is Miami stopping for Pleasant?

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It's a four-way now.

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Okay.

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Anything else?

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Madam Clerk, please.

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Anything else?

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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. Item number 11 is the first reading of ordinance 20-25-41. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending title 8, parking section 480.11 prohibited parking streets adding 80 feet on Oak Avenue in both

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Directions north and south of Empire. Thank you, Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor.

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As anyone in that neighborhood understands, there is a lot of on-street parking near the

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intersection because of the width of Oak Street. It makes it difficult for school buses and

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garbage trucks and any oversized vehicles to make the turn without clipping vehicles

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that are parked very close to the corner. Staff is requesting a change to the parking

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Parking Ordinance, and then removing or having no parking for the first 80 feet in either

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direction off on Oak from Empire.

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So on the north side and on the south side of Oak, 80 feet, that'll keep, there's also

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a appears to be someone who's operating some type of business in that location too that

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seems to be eating up a lot of the on-street parking.

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So we want to make that those first 80 feet either direction prohibited parking.

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So staff asked you to move forward with this ordinance.

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Is there a motion to move this forward?

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So move.

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Parker?

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I have a question on that.

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I have to have it on an ordinance or motion to move it forward.

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Okay.

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Second.

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Okay, so we have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle, Alderman

00:21:37.059 --> 00:21:38.059
Parker.

00:21:38.059 --> 00:21:41.539
Is that on the both the east and west sides of the road?

00:21:41.539 --> 00:21:42.539
Yes.

00:21:42.539 --> 00:21:43.539
Okay.

00:21:43.539 --> 00:21:44.539
I went down there to look at it.

00:21:44.539 --> 00:21:45.539
I'm sorry.

00:21:45.539 --> 00:21:46.539
Darren, do you want to?

00:21:46.539 --> 00:21:49.779
We're asking for 80 feet on the west side only of both intersections.

00:21:49.779 --> 00:21:56.460
and the Eastside already has 30 feet by ordinance so we're trying to get people to move back

00:21:56.460 --> 00:22:01.259
and the designation point that we picked was the first driveway so we really didn't want

00:22:01.259 --> 00:22:04.339
any parking from the first driveway to the corner.

00:22:04.339 --> 00:22:06.819
Thank you for that clarification.

00:22:06.819 --> 00:22:07.819
Any other discussion?

00:22:07.819 --> 00:22:13.299
I believe you were asking for a suspension on this one.

00:22:13.299 --> 00:22:15.539
Motion to approve suspension of the rules.

00:22:15.539 --> 00:22:16.539
Second.

00:22:16.539 --> 00:22:20.779
made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Parker for suspension and again

00:22:20.779 --> 00:22:24.679
suspension is non-debatable must pass by two-thirds majority. Madam Clerk would

00:22:24.679 --> 00:22:27.579
you please take the role in the suspension only. Could you repeat the

00:22:27.579 --> 00:22:34.059
second please? Parker. Thank you. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye.

00:22:34.059 --> 00:22:41.420
Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The

00:22:41.420 --> 00:22:45.980
suspension passes eight to zero. So then this would be considered the second

00:22:45.980 --> 00:22:51.059
reading of Ordinance 2025-41. If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take

00:22:51.059 --> 00:22:52.059
the roll. Simmons?

00:22:52.059 --> 00:22:53.059
Aye. Parker?

00:22:53.059 --> 00:22:54.059
Aye. Stacy?

00:22:54.059 --> 00:22:55.059
Aye. Shadle?

00:22:55.059 --> 00:22:56.059
Aye. Sanders?

00:22:56.059 --> 00:22:57.059
Aye. Sellers?

00:22:57.059 --> 00:22:58.059
Aye. Klemm?

00:22:58.059 --> 00:22:59.059
Aye. And Johnson?

00:22:59.059 --> 00:23:04.059
Aye. And the Ordinance is approved, 8-0.

00:23:04.059 --> 00:23:08.379
And Item Number 12 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-42. Could you please read

00:23:08.379 --> 00:23:09.379
this?

00:23:09.379 --> 00:23:13.720
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute Albertus Airport airplane hangar leases

00:23:13.720 --> 00:23:14.720
administratively.

00:23:14.720 --> 00:23:17.720
Thank you. Alderman Klemm or Alderman Shade?

00:23:17.720 --> 00:23:25.720
Certainly. I was an alderman for 18 years and during that period of time we never saw one of the airport leases.

00:23:25.720 --> 00:23:32.720
Airport leases are basically based off of nothing more than dollars and cents per square footage.

00:23:32.720 --> 00:23:38.720
They're basically reviewed by three to four people before they ever come to us.

00:23:38.720 --> 00:23:43.720
They come to us, we sit here and debate them back and forth for hours and what for.

00:23:43.720 --> 00:23:50.200
Moore. It really doesn't make a bit of differences in that space. So I believe that the public

00:23:50.200 --> 00:23:58.159
works person, the airport manager, and the city manager should be able to pick those

00:23:58.159 --> 00:24:01.000
up without our approval.

00:24:01.000 --> 00:24:06.759
The other thing that this has caused in the past is the fact that I know at one point

00:24:06.759 --> 00:24:13.019
the city clerk had all the leases made out, signed, ready to go, and we didn't agree on

00:24:13.019 --> 00:24:18.299
and any of them. So they sat there and she had to redo everything. So that's the reason

00:24:18.299 --> 00:24:20.740
I believe we should change it.

00:24:20.740 --> 00:24:21.980
Olin Shadle?

00:24:21.980 --> 00:24:30.179
I just would add to that that we have in the last year standardized a new lease and it was

00:24:30.179 --> 00:24:37.059
approved as a council and the lease rates are established in an ordinance and they're voted

00:24:37.059 --> 00:25:07.059
and many others.

00:25:07.059 --> 00:25:11.259
A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Johnson.

00:25:11.259 --> 00:25:14.259
Further discussion?

00:25:14.259 --> 00:25:16.259
Alderman Stacy.

00:25:16.259 --> 00:25:18.259
Yes.

00:25:18.259 --> 00:25:26.259
Alderperson Klemm stated Public Works Director, City Manager, and there was a third person.

00:25:26.259 --> 00:25:32.259
The airport manager.

00:25:32.259 --> 00:25:34.259
If there's no further discussion,

00:25:34.259 --> 00:25:40.259
We'll move on to Item Number 13, which is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-43.

00:25:40.259 --> 00:25:42.259
Could you please read this?

00:25:42.259 --> 00:25:56.259
Ordinance amending Part 8, Business Regulation and Tax Code, Title 4, Taxation, to add Chapter 897 for the purpose of implementing a 1% municipal grocery retailer's occupation tax and a municipal grocery service occupation tax.

00:25:56.259 --> 00:25:58.259
Thank you. Manager Boyer.

00:25:58.259 --> 00:26:15.259
Thank you, Your Honor. 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 1, 2026.

00:26:15.259 --> 00:26:25.259
This tax had historically supported both state and local government operations through a revenue sharing mechanism.

00:26:25.259 --> 00:26:30.059
With its repeal, the state granted home rule municipalities the authority to

00:26:31.059 --> 00:26:36.740
reintroduce a 1% grocery tax locally via ordinance.

00:26:37.659 --> 00:26:45.139
Dozens of communities, especially in northern Illinois, are coordinating efforts to adopt this measure simultaneously to ensure

00:26:45.779 --> 00:26:47.779
fiscal stability and regional consistency.

00:26:48.740 --> 00:26:54.420
For Freeport, the repeal represents a major shift in local revenue responsibility.

00:26:54.420 --> 00:26:58.740
Without the adoption of the local ordinance the city will lose a dependable

00:26:58.740 --> 00:27:03.059
funding stream tied to essential operating costs. Region one Planning

00:27:03.059 --> 00:27:07.579
Council member municipalities are moving forward with adoption of the local

00:27:07.579 --> 00:27:13.980
grocery tax in July of this year so that is to preserve revenue continuity. So the

00:27:13.980 --> 00:27:19.619
financial impact the 1% grocery tax generates an estimated 750 to 800

00:27:19.619 --> 00:27:49.619
and O'Keefe are all are able to use the $100,000 per year to the city. We cannot be more specific about that because the way it is compiled, it is part of our total sales tax reimbursement and it is not easily or able to extract that specifically. So staff recommends adopting the event and filing with the Illinois Department of Revenue in October. That is the deadline to have it introduced in July,

00:27:49.619 --> 00:27:57.379
January. And just a couple of other points I'd like to mention. What does $800,000

00:27:57.379 --> 00:28:03.659
represent to the City of Freeport? I will say in general, approximately nine staff,

00:28:03.659 --> 00:28:10.139
whether that would be police, fire, or public works. It also represents, in terms

00:28:10.139 --> 00:28:15.599
of road work, I think recently we had an example where we had about a mile of

00:28:15.599 --> 00:28:23.279
Reconstructed Roadway that was about 900,000 so that's close. Also other

00:28:23.279 --> 00:28:29.960
communities it represents in let's say Rockford 60 to 80 police officers or 70

00:28:29.960 --> 00:28:35.199
to 90 public works employees. In Cherry Valley it also represents something

00:28:35.199 --> 00:28:40.880
similar and they have a smaller amount but two patrol officers and a yearly

00:28:40.880 --> 00:28:47.759
Major Street Improvement Program. So as I sit here with you today, I'd recommend moving forward with

00:28:49.440 --> 00:28:56.320
reinstating the 1% as of January 1st, 2026. It is not an increase. It is simply,

00:28:57.679 --> 00:29:03.039
the state is currently collecting it and has implemented it and we have the opportunity

00:29:03.039 --> 00:29:08.880
to continue that. So thank you. Is there a motion to move this ordinance forward?

00:29:08.880 --> 00:29:09.880
So move.

00:29:09.880 --> 00:29:10.880
Action.

00:29:10.880 --> 00:29:15.880
We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Parker.

00:29:15.880 --> 00:29:16.880
Discussion.

00:29:16.880 --> 00:29:17.880
Alderman Johnson.

00:29:17.880 --> 00:29:24.440
I just, just for the audience, people that are listening, this grocery tax, 1% grocery

00:29:24.440 --> 00:29:28.200
tax is something that we are already paying.

00:29:28.200 --> 00:29:35.639
It was at, this state tax was added in 1990 as a part of sales tax reform and proceeds

00:29:35.639 --> 00:29:43.240
from this tax were distributed to local governments and so that's the $800,000 that Rob was talking

00:29:43.240 --> 00:29:48.960
about that we are getting from this 1% grocery sales tax now.

00:29:48.960 --> 00:29:52.639
So it is not an added tax.

00:29:52.639 --> 00:29:58.240
Now it's going to be discontinued or eliminated effective January 1st, 2026.

00:29:58.240 --> 00:30:00.240
and

00:30:01.279 --> 00:30:04.240
other

00:30:05.240 --> 00:30:07.240
individuals.

00:30:08.240 --> 00:30:16.240
It is a continuing tax that we are already paying right now. It is not a new tax. It is one we are already paying.

00:30:17.240 --> 00:30:25.240
Correct. And that has been for the last 35 years. Right. Since 1990. Alderman Sellers, I believe you were next. Linda said what I wanted to say.

00:30:25.240 --> 00:30:30.680
Thank you for pointing that out, Alderperson, Johnson, where this is an opportunity for

00:30:30.680 --> 00:30:37.160
us to save our taxpayers that 1%, as Illinois has done away with it, again we say no, we

00:30:37.160 --> 00:30:40.819
are not going to save you that money, we are going to continue to take it.

00:30:40.819 --> 00:30:44.839
Please note who is for this, who has seconded it, who had made the motion for it to even

00:30:44.839 --> 00:30:46.920
move forward.

00:30:46.920 --> 00:30:51.480
We gotta stop taking people's money, and if this is an opportunity to save people, then

00:30:51.480 --> 00:31:00.400
we should we should take it any other discussion alderman Johnson it's not

00:31:00.400 --> 00:31:05.319
really that we want to take keep taking people's money the problem is it will put

00:31:05.319 --> 00:31:09.440
a deficit of eight hundred thousand dollars in our budget that we are using

00:31:09.440 --> 00:31:15.119
now which means that it could take away the money that we pay for our police

00:31:15.119 --> 00:31:21.200
department it could take away money that we pay for our expenses of every day to

00:31:21.200 --> 00:31:23.200
and

00:31:24.279 --> 00:31:26.279
John.

00:31:27.420 --> 00:31:29.420
So, we have to get the money out of the department.

00:31:30.620 --> 00:31:32.620
If it's not going to operate, it can take money away from every

00:31:33.620 --> 00:31:35.620
department in the city. That's what the money is being used

00:31:36.640 --> 00:31:38.640
for now. So, without it, where do we get the $800,000 deficit

00:31:40.160 --> 00:31:42.160
that we're going to have if we don't continue it?

00:31:46.059 --> 00:31:50.059
» There's no further discussion. Move on to item number 14.

00:31:51.200 --> 00:31:55.200
25, Chevrolet Tahoe from Carl Auto Group for the Fire Department.

00:31:55.200 --> 00:31:56.200
Thank you.

00:31:56.200 --> 00:31:57.200
Chief Miller.

00:31:57.200 --> 00:31:58.200
Yes, thank you, Your Honor.

00:31:58.200 --> 00:32:03.039
The Fire Department has a nearly 20-year-old response vehicle that is utilized to respond

00:32:03.039 --> 00:32:06.960
to emergencies for both firefighters and its officers.

00:32:06.960 --> 00:32:12.039
It's been determined that the vehicle is no longer suitable for a response vehicle.

00:32:12.039 --> 00:32:18.279
Due to rust on the frame and suspension components makes it no longer suitable for emergency

00:32:18.279 --> 00:32:19.279
responses.

00:32:19.279 --> 00:32:29.279
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.

00:32:29.279 --> 00:32:35.279
Those current shift commanders have completely outgrown their present Ford Explorer.

00:32:35.279 --> 00:32:40.279
They simply need more space for the required equipment that they have to carry.

00:32:40.279 --> 00:32:44.279
The Ford would replace the downgraded Chevy Trailblazer.

00:32:44.279 --> 00:32:51.279
Kaiser. This would extend the useful life of the Ford Explorer and save the City money.

00:32:51.279 --> 00:32:56.940
So funding for this proposed vehicle is accounted for and this year's budget was planned for

00:32:56.940 --> 00:33:02.420
as part of the vehicle replacement plan. So the Fire Capital Improvement Fund would cover

00:33:02.420 --> 00:33:08.819
the cost of this vehicle. This is not part of the City's general fund and will not impact

00:33:08.819 --> 00:33:12.500
any programs the city has currently planned.

00:33:12.500 --> 00:33:14.620
So the Fire Capital Improvement Fund

00:33:14.620 --> 00:33:18.920
is funded by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance.

00:33:18.920 --> 00:33:22.579
This is not something that the taxpayers would be paying for

00:33:22.579 --> 00:33:26.500
out of their sales tax or property taxes.

00:33:26.500 --> 00:33:29.180
So the fire department is requesting approval

00:33:29.180 --> 00:33:31.539
of the resolution to purchase the new vehicle

00:33:32.420 --> 00:33:35.500
for the fire department shift commanders.

00:33:38.819 --> 00:33:42.819
Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second.

00:33:42.819 --> 00:33:48.819
Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion on the resolution?

00:33:48.819 --> 00:33:52.819
Alderman Sellers.

00:33:52.819 --> 00:34:02.819
Chief Miller, you said that this money already comes out of a budget that is for replacement of vehicles.

00:34:02.819 --> 00:34:05.819
Correct? Yes, that's correct.

00:34:05.819 --> 00:34:11.980
Fire Capital Improvement Fund which is allocated for capital purchases such as

00:34:11.980 --> 00:34:21.099
vehicles, hose, turnout gear, things of a higher budget consideration. Did you want

00:34:21.099 --> 00:34:30.099
to use your second time? Yes, and you also, when we talked, you also said in that budget every year that the

00:34:30.099 --> 00:34:37.539
City takes a certain percentage off of that, out of that fund, right?

00:34:37.539 --> 00:34:38.539
That's correct.

00:34:38.539 --> 00:34:46.079
So the money that Ambulance Billing generates goes into the Fire Capital Improvement Fund.

00:34:46.079 --> 00:34:53.139
And each year in the fall, the city will take 54% of that fund and allocate that to the

00:34:53.139 --> 00:34:54.679
General Fund.

00:34:54.679 --> 00:35:00.480
So we're actually supplementing the general fund, we're not tapping into it.

00:35:00.480 --> 00:35:08.039
So the remaining 64 percent goes to fire department capital items.

00:35:08.039 --> 00:35:09.039
Alderman Sanders?

00:35:09.039 --> 00:35:11.039
Yeah, Chief Miller.

00:35:11.039 --> 00:35:13.159
Forty-six percent.

00:35:13.159 --> 00:35:20.599
Do we have the cost and the personnel staff that is going to be utilizing this vehicle,

00:35:20.599 --> 00:35:31.119
Do we have that available for us and to us where we can evaluate and look into, look further

00:35:31.119 --> 00:35:38.139
to see have we made other options to where we're purchasing this vehicle and how much

00:35:38.139 --> 00:35:44.880
it would actually cost and is there any discounts along with that or is there any biddings in

00:35:44.880 --> 00:35:50.420
and wait, is there still anything in place for the vehicle so we can even make comparisons?

00:35:50.420 --> 00:35:57.639
sure absolutely all that information you just cited is in your packet and its in memo format

00:35:57.639 --> 00:36:07.000
and also the bid costs were on there so looking at cost for this vehicle checking locally

00:36:07.000 --> 00:36:14.480
it went to backer auto group their cost for a very stripped down regular Chevy Tahoe that

00:36:14.480 --> 00:36:19.159
Tahoe, that any one of us would purchase for our families, not a response vehicle.

00:36:19.159 --> 00:36:25.760
That was $61,000 plus the fees for title and processing and all that.

00:36:25.760 --> 00:36:35.519
So for a police package response vehicle designed and built for this intention here, pre-wired

00:36:35.519 --> 00:36:42.920
for light sirens and emergency equipment from the factory, the state, Illinois State purchasing

00:36:42.920 --> 00:36:51.559
Purchasing Contract for that vehicle was Miles Chevrolet Indicator, that quote was $58,028.

00:36:51.559 --> 00:36:58.239
And then Iowa State Purchasing Contract for that same exact response vehicle designed

00:36:58.239 --> 00:37:03.980
for this use was $52,714.20.

00:37:03.980 --> 00:37:07.639
So we have done our research, we've looked into costs, we've found the best possible

00:37:37.639 --> 00:37:42.280
In my opinion, it's almost dangerous for as much equipment as they have unsecured in that

00:37:42.280 --> 00:37:45.280
tiny vehicle.

00:37:45.280 --> 00:37:47.480
Alderman Sanders, did you want to use a second time?

00:37:47.480 --> 00:37:48.480
Yes.

00:37:48.480 --> 00:37:49.480
Go ahead.

00:37:49.480 --> 00:37:59.079
Chief, I understand that you're out for bids and everything for the best option for the

00:37:59.079 --> 00:38:01.720
city when purchasing.

00:38:01.720 --> 00:38:11.599
My thing is, I'd like for you to define to us the difference between the price tags of

00:38:11.599 --> 00:38:19.039
a non-response vehicle and a response vehicle.

00:38:19.039 --> 00:38:22.519
What's the cost difference in the two?

00:38:22.519 --> 00:38:27.199
I know there's going to be a major increase when we're talking about a response vehicle.

00:38:27.199 --> 00:38:35.199
It's going to go into thousands, more so that it would probably almost exceed the price of the vehicle.

00:38:35.199 --> 00:38:44.199
So, and that's my opinion and my speculation because I don't see anything before me that tells me anything different.

00:38:44.199 --> 00:38:52.199
So I'd like for you to kind of like, you know, kind of like define the difference between the two and the cost difference.

00:38:52.199 --> 00:39:06.199
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.

00:39:06.199 --> 00:39:18.199
So for a regular script on Tahoe, meaning it still has carpet, it still has satellite radio, it has more options than a response vehicle.

00:39:18.199 --> 00:39:22.199
The cost of that vehicle is more than $61,000.

00:39:22.199 --> 00:39:32.199
So what we are seeking to purchase is a response vehicle that is built and designed for emergency responses.

00:39:32.199 --> 00:39:38.320
Specifically, again, it's wired from the factory for lights, sirens, radios.

00:39:38.320 --> 00:39:41.199
It has larger brakes for emergency stopping.

00:39:41.199 --> 00:39:46.680
It has a larger alternator for all the electronic components it has to power.

00:39:46.680 --> 00:39:52.360
It comes with two batteries, one for the motor, one for all the electrical components.

00:39:52.360 --> 00:39:58.159
It is rated and designed to be a response vehicle substantially less than

00:40:28.159 --> 00:40:55.399
Alderman, Stacy, did you have your hand up? Yes. You said that this would come from the

00:40:55.399 --> 00:41:02.599
The Fire Capital Improvement Fund. Yes, that's correct. And that fund is created from the

00:41:02.599 --> 00:41:09.359
emulence cause. That's right. That you all receive. Correct. And so you basically budget

00:41:09.359 --> 00:41:14.839
it for this this year? That's correct. The money's in the budget for this vehicle. It

00:41:14.839 --> 00:41:21.279
was planned for, it was allocated for, and we were waiting until a vehicle became available

00:41:21.279 --> 00:41:24.319
to make a proposal or presentation to council.

00:41:24.319 --> 00:41:31.319
What I don't understand is why 54% goes into the general fund

00:41:31.319 --> 00:41:37.559
if it's from the ambulance calls, the medical calls.

00:41:37.559 --> 00:41:41.119
That's been set up by ordinance to supplement the general fund.

00:41:41.119 --> 00:41:46.639
It helps offset our salaries, our benefits,

00:41:46.639 --> 00:41:50.079
some of our station maintenance.

00:41:50.079 --> 00:41:55.359
So it contributes to the general fund for other uses within the city.

00:41:55.359 --> 00:42:00.239
Any other discussion on the purchase?

00:42:00.239 --> 00:42:04.639
Seeing none, Madam Clerk, Alderman, Johnson.

00:42:05.279 --> 00:42:11.920
Chief Miller, I just was under the understanding also that there's only certain vehicles that

00:42:11.920 --> 00:42:18.399
you can use for all the equipment that you have and this is one of them, the main one,

00:42:18.399 --> 00:42:23.399
on this Tahoe that could, that would need to be used because there's so much equipment.

00:42:23.399 --> 00:42:26.359
I mean, you showed me when I went to the police department all the equipment they have to

00:42:26.359 --> 00:42:30.719
carry and it was very cramped in that vehicle that it currently is in, so yes.

00:42:30.719 --> 00:42:37.239
Yes, we are seeking a larger vehicle to better accommodate the needs of the shift commanders.

00:42:37.239 --> 00:42:42.179
All the equipment that they carry now is just placed in their set down and what we're looking

00:42:42.179 --> 00:42:49.899
to do is have cabinets and the ability to secure the equipment so forbid they get in a crash

00:42:49.899 --> 00:42:54.940
as the equipment's not even come bouncing around inside the cab of the vehicle.

00:42:54.940 --> 00:43:00.139
Years ago, many years ago, before they had such built response vehicles, we would go

00:43:00.139 --> 00:43:07.699
to a car dealership, buy something off the lot and put light sirens and radios in that

00:43:07.699 --> 00:43:08.699
kind of car.

00:43:08.699 --> 00:43:10.500
It's not built for that kind of use.

00:43:10.500 --> 00:43:12.719
It's not built for that kind of response.

00:43:12.719 --> 00:43:14.799
The electrical components were not adequate.

00:43:14.799 --> 00:43:17.359
The braking system was not adequate.

00:43:17.359 --> 00:43:18.920
And transmission cooler.

00:43:18.920 --> 00:43:21.879
So they've come a long way with designing vehicles

00:43:21.879 --> 00:43:23.960
to last for this intended use.

00:43:26.199 --> 00:43:27.159
Thank you.

00:43:27.159 --> 00:43:28.559
If there's no further discussion,

00:43:28.559 --> 00:43:30.179
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

00:43:30.179 --> 00:43:31.239
Simmons?

00:43:31.239 --> 00:43:32.339
Aye.

00:43:32.339 --> 00:43:33.179
Parker?

00:43:33.179 --> 00:43:34.000
Aye.

00:43:34.000 --> 00:43:34.839
Stacy?

00:43:34.839 --> 00:43:35.659
Aye.

00:43:35.659 --> 00:43:36.500
Shadle?

00:43:36.500 --> 00:43:37.339
Aye.

00:43:37.339 --> 00:43:38.159
Sanders?

00:43:38.159 --> 00:43:39.000
Aye.

00:43:39.000 --> 00:43:39.839
Sellers?

00:43:39.839 --> 00:43:47.279
and Johnson. Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item number 15 is the adoption of resolution

00:43:47.279 --> 00:43:52.559
2025-71. Could you please read this? Resolution authorizing an agreement with Fehr Graham

00:43:52.559 --> 00:43:57.519
to provide construction engineering services for Westward Water Main Extension. Thank you.

00:43:57.519 --> 00:44:02.539
Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. Fehr Graham designed and permitted the Westward

00:44:02.539 --> 00:44:08.359
Water Main Extension on Stevenson from Brad Martin to the city limits. Helm or Civil was

00:44:08.359 --> 00:44:13.319
is the low bidder for the construction project and plans to start the new water main installation

00:44:13.319 --> 00:44:15.480
in the fall of 25.

00:44:15.480 --> 00:44:19.579
Fehr Graham will provide professional construction engineering services to manage the project

00:44:19.579 --> 00:44:23.960
on behalf of the city and engineering services will consist of full-time observation and

00:44:23.960 --> 00:44:28.699
inspection, along with project management, construction, survey layout, and staking.

00:44:28.699 --> 00:44:38.119
This project consists of infrastructure improvement investment of $631,889.50 to this location

00:44:38.119 --> 00:44:43.839
and the hot mix asphalt streets will be a full lane patch upon completion of the water main

00:44:43.839 --> 00:44:46.799
completion.

00:44:46.799 --> 00:44:50.879
Professional service engineering services including construction engineering, staking

00:44:50.879 --> 00:44:57.039
and so on is in the amount of $63,850.

00:44:57.039 --> 00:45:02.099
Material QAQC, material testing services are done by a third party at time and material

00:45:02.099 --> 00:45:04.079
basis and as needed.

00:45:04.079 --> 00:45:07.939
And construction engineering was part of the 2025 budget.

00:45:07.940 --> 00:45:11.579
So staff recommends to approve the professional engineering agreement with Fehr Graham to

00:45:11.579 --> 00:45:16.500
move forward with the construction oversight and management.

00:45:16.500 --> 00:45:18.859
Is there a motion to adopt?

00:45:18.859 --> 00:45:19.859
So moved.

00:45:19.859 --> 00:45:20.859
Second.

00:45:20.859 --> 00:45:24.779
A motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

00:45:24.779 --> 00:45:27.779
Discussion on the resolution?

00:45:27.779 --> 00:45:30.059
Alderman Stacy?

00:45:30.059 --> 00:45:46.460
Okay, to keep it straight and simple. First of all, we're talking about the school, Open

00:45:46.460 --> 00:45:50.659
Bible. This is the water main for Open Bible. Am I correct?

00:45:50.659 --> 00:45:56.380
It would be the water main heading west that includes multiple residents and ends at Open

00:45:56.380 --> 00:46:07.940
Open Bible. Open Bible. And we've already paid Director Stiegel $69,000 to design it.

00:46:07.940 --> 00:46:21.739
And so now we're going to be paying him another $63,850 to do the T&Ms and to be the engineer

00:46:21.739 --> 00:46:30.299
your contractor on this project, how much money, you know, you were talking about you

00:46:30.299 --> 00:46:42.980
were seeking grants for this project, how much money did we actually receive for this

00:46:42.980 --> 00:46:56.279
Watermane, Event, Alderperson, Stacy, we did see grants, we did not receive grants for

00:46:56.279 --> 00:47:06.179
this one, however, this came in about $250,000 below estimate and it's quite a value to get

00:47:06.179 --> 00:47:13.259
and I have this much water main done for what it's going to cost, so these construction

00:47:13.259 --> 00:47:20.339
supervision and management is how we ensure that the project is done to specification

00:47:20.339 --> 00:47:22.699
on time and on cost.

00:47:22.699 --> 00:47:24.779
Would you like to use your second time already Cecelia?

00:47:24.779 --> 00:47:25.779
Yes.

00:47:25.779 --> 00:47:26.779
Okay, second time.

00:47:26.779 --> 00:47:35.739
How is it that we're able to save $250,000 on that project, but no other water main?

00:47:35.739 --> 00:47:38.139
Do we save that kind of money?

00:47:38.139 --> 00:47:42.339
So how is it that we're able to save so much on that one?

00:47:42.339 --> 00:47:43.339
Maybe.

00:47:43.339 --> 00:47:44.339
Darren?

00:47:44.339 --> 00:47:45.339
Sure.

00:47:45.339 --> 00:47:50.779
All of our bids this year came in under estimate for the complete water main projects.

00:47:50.779 --> 00:47:53.939
We've got really good pricing this year.

00:47:53.939 --> 00:47:59.659
Water main material cost in general has come down slightly from kind of the post COVID

00:47:59.659 --> 00:48:00.659
years.

00:48:00.659 --> 00:48:02.819
And so prices were more advantageous.

00:48:02.819 --> 00:48:10.819
So if I go back to the other three Watermain projects that we've bid, I think in a total

00:48:10.819 --> 00:48:16.539
they were about a half a million dollars under what we estimated for those projects as well.

00:48:16.539 --> 00:48:19.339
So that's been kind of a trend here in 2025.

00:48:19.339 --> 00:48:21.099
Alderman Shadle.

00:48:21.099 --> 00:48:29.940
I just for clarity would like to mention that however Mr. Steekle is probably a very valued

00:48:29.940 --> 00:48:31.139
and Employee at Fehr Graham.

00:48:31.139 --> 00:48:33.500
He is not the one that we're making a contract with,

00:48:33.500 --> 00:48:38.139
we're making it with his Employer, Fehr Graham.

00:48:39.939 --> 00:48:41.000
Any other discussion?

00:48:42.659 --> 00:48:43.980
Alderman Sandman.

00:48:43.980 --> 00:48:48.980
Yeah, I just want to announce that there's a failure

00:48:52.039 --> 00:48:56.739
on the Council to not look into this matter

00:48:56.739 --> 00:48:59.840
because it has been before us three times now

00:48:59.840 --> 00:49:02.719
and we had not come up with a resolution.

00:49:02.719 --> 00:49:07.719
Matter of fact, as far as my understanding is,

00:49:08.319 --> 00:49:12.719
it was thrown out of here and we didn't have a vote on it

00:49:12.719 --> 00:49:16.920
or it was suspended or something to that nature.

00:49:16.920 --> 00:49:20.159
But my point, the reason why I'm bringing this up

00:49:20.159 --> 00:49:23.559
is because this has been rewritten,

00:49:23.559 --> 00:49:26.279
this has been before us,

00:49:26.279 --> 00:49:31.279
but now it has a different scenario going on

00:49:31.480 --> 00:49:36.480
for extension to accommodate the extension of this water main

00:49:37.119 --> 00:49:41.799
to accommodate this Bible solution or problem

00:49:41.799 --> 00:49:43.380
that we have been having.

00:49:43.380 --> 00:49:47.359
And my question would be is how do we come to that factor?

00:49:47.359 --> 00:49:50.199
Who's coming up with the consultation

00:49:51.119 --> 00:49:54.739
between the group of people that designing this

00:49:54.739 --> 00:49:58.179
and coming up with the fact that we're making this proposal.

00:49:58.179 --> 00:50:01.779
We're making this proposal for the third time.

00:50:01.779 --> 00:50:05.139
And if that is the case, then I feel that the council

00:50:06.299 --> 00:50:09.659
should not weigh in on this or suspend this

00:50:09.659 --> 00:50:11.739
or throw it back out of here again

00:50:11.739 --> 00:50:13.980
until we get some complete clarity.

00:50:13.980 --> 00:50:17.859
There is no clarity here because what I'm looking at

00:50:17.859 --> 00:50:20.219
is that we're coming from the back door

00:50:20.219 --> 00:50:23.899
trying to facilitate another objective.

00:50:23.899 --> 00:50:25.279
And that's my hope.

00:50:25.279 --> 00:50:27.299
That's my opinion.

00:50:27.299 --> 00:50:35.899
I feel that it has compromised the whole thing for this to be brought before us again, and

00:50:35.899 --> 00:50:42.940
it's been out of the loop for months, maybe almost a year, and while we're entertaining

00:50:42.940 --> 00:50:50.859
this again from a different perspective, it seems very odd that we would even be approaching

00:50:50.859 --> 00:50:56.799
this whole thing again, knowing that now the Bible study is going to receive an extension

00:50:56.799 --> 00:51:02.839
to all of this movement that we're putting together, this proposal that we're putting

00:51:02.839 --> 00:51:11.500
together, we're including them as well. And I'd like to see how much we're being charged

00:51:11.500 --> 00:51:18.839
for this extra engineering services that is being provided with this also being an inclusion

00:51:18.839 --> 00:51:24.359
with the Bible study as an extension because it sounds very fishy to me and I don't like

00:51:24.359 --> 00:51:31.599
and I'm saying this simply because I can see it and I can visualize what is happening right

00:51:31.599 --> 00:51:33.359
now at this moment.

00:51:33.359 --> 00:51:35.159
That's my first point.

00:51:35.159 --> 00:51:36.159
Sure.

00:51:36.159 --> 00:51:37.759
So I'll recap.

00:51:37.759 --> 00:51:40.960
The City Council voted to design this project.

00:51:40.960 --> 00:51:42.159
We designed it.

00:51:42.159 --> 00:51:44.460
The City Council voted to permit it.

00:51:44.460 --> 00:51:46.359
We permitted it.

00:51:46.359 --> 00:51:49.759
The City Council voted to put it out to bid.

00:51:49.759 --> 00:51:51.960
We put it out to bid.

00:51:51.960 --> 00:51:57.440
We have a contract to award to Helm to do the job and this is the construction engineering

00:51:57.440 --> 00:52:02.480
contract for it and it's the first time it's been to council.

00:52:02.480 --> 00:52:09.639
No it has not been the first time because this is a whole different project with the

00:52:09.639 --> 00:52:18.559
extension of including the water main along with this project that would extend to the

00:52:18.559 --> 00:52:20.079
Bible study.

00:52:20.079 --> 00:52:26.480
That's what I'm seeing right now, because my question is, we did not come up with the

00:52:26.480 --> 00:52:33.480
Bradmar, I'm looking at this thing, the other portion of this, Westward, from Bradmar, and

00:52:33.480 --> 00:52:40.960
I got this, I'm looking at my wrong notes, but the thing about it is, it's a whole different

00:52:40.960 --> 00:52:48.159
project with an inclusion of the Bible study extension, it's another extension, and to

00:52:48.159 --> 00:52:56.559
to get this even started. The council has no clue that this projection is even being presented

00:52:56.559 --> 00:53:01.879
or proposal being presented to the council. And you saying that it's the first time? No,

00:53:01.879 --> 00:53:08.799
it's another scenario. Yes, the scenario is the first part of it has been, it is the first

00:53:08.799 --> 00:53:15.000
time. But the fact that, yeah, the westward thing that we're talking about to add on the

00:53:15.000 --> 00:53:16.000
and others.

00:53:16.000 --> 00:53:17.000
So, we're going to add it to the Bible.

00:53:17.000 --> 00:53:18.000
That's the first time.

00:53:18.000 --> 00:53:22.799
But we had gone over the extension from the Bible study already two times.

00:53:22.799 --> 00:53:26.319
Now we're going to add it coming in at the back door.

00:53:26.319 --> 00:53:30.559
That should not ever happen without the discussion of the council.

00:53:30.559 --> 00:53:36.599
I don't care how we get there, but the council needs to be able to talk about it and discuss

00:53:36.599 --> 00:53:41.599
it.

00:53:41.599 --> 00:53:43.639
Nothing's been done without the council approval.

00:53:43.639 --> 00:53:46.519
the record will show that it's been voted on every time

00:53:46.519 --> 00:53:50.159
and passed the council to move forward to this project point.

00:53:50.159 --> 00:53:52.359
I don't know if Dovie has those records,

00:53:52.359 --> 00:53:55.819
but this council, the sitting council here,

00:53:55.819 --> 00:53:58.719
with the exception of Linda at the last vote,

00:53:58.719 --> 00:54:00.359
move this forward to bid.

00:54:00.359 --> 00:54:01.839
And so we, the bid,

00:54:01.839 --> 00:54:04.119
this is the construction engineering part.

00:54:04.119 --> 00:54:05.819
The bid is later in the agenda

00:54:05.819 --> 00:54:07.719
based on the way the agendas are wrote.

00:54:10.359 --> 00:54:12.159
Any further, Alderman Simmons?

00:54:12.159 --> 00:54:17.759
This is for you, Director Stecco. So yes, you are right. We did pass on the design

00:54:17.759 --> 00:54:22.679
under the understanding that that was what was needed in order to even apply

00:54:22.679 --> 00:54:27.579
for the grants that are out there. So my question then to you is how many grants,

00:54:27.579 --> 00:54:34.839
if any, were applied for to help get this project completed? So as we promised, I

00:54:34.839 --> 00:54:39.159
believe it was Alderwood and Stacey that asked, we have applied for every grant

00:54:39.159 --> 00:55:03.159
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.

00:55:03.159 --> 00:55:28.159
So, we did our best to find money. I believe, and I think City Manager Boyer or Mayor Miller will have to let us know, but I believe that Open Bible projected $15,000 to the city towards this project from their coffers, not to include any work on their property.

00:55:28.159 --> 00:55:38.719
that's correct chief Miller yes thank you your honor I realize that extending that

00:55:38.719 --> 00:55:45.960
water service out to the western edge of the city would benefit many people who

00:55:45.960 --> 00:55:50.599
live out in that area whether it's residential whether it's institutional

00:55:50.599 --> 00:55:56.000
but what our concerns are at the fire department that extension represents

00:55:56.000 --> 00:56:01.599
and 7 more fire hydrants. I carry about 800 feet of 5 inch holes which is our considered

00:56:01.599 --> 00:56:08.119
above ground water main on each truck. So if we had an incident anywhere in that area

00:56:08.119 --> 00:56:15.399
whether it be a institution or residential we would be scrambling for a water supply

00:56:15.399 --> 00:56:21.960
sufficient enough to feed our apparatus and effectively extinguish any fires out that

00:56:21.960 --> 00:56:22.960
way.

00:56:22.960 --> 00:56:33.960
Thank you. Alderman Sanders, you've already had your twice. Is there anyone else? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

00:56:33.960 --> 00:56:44.960
Simmons? No. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye.

00:56:44.960 --> 00:56:48.960
The resolution is adopted 5-3. Thank you.

00:56:48.960 --> 00:56:55.359
Item number 16 is the Resolution, Adoption of Resolution 2025-73. Could you please read this?

00:56:55.359 --> 00:57:00.559
Resolution approving agreement with Crawford, Murray, and Tilly for Airport Engineering Services

00:57:00.559 --> 00:57:07.679
related to replacement of Runway 624, Precision Approach Path Indicator, or the PAPI System.

00:57:07.679 --> 00:57:08.960
Thank you. Manager Boyer?

00:57:08.960 --> 00:57:12.960
Thank you, Your Honor. The Precision Approach Path Indicator or PAPI System,

00:57:12.960 --> 00:57:16.639
as Dovie just mentioned, is a vital airfield safety feature

00:57:16.639 --> 00:57:21.519
that provides glide path guidance to pilots using a combination of red and white lights.

00:57:22.159 --> 00:57:29.920
The current system on runway 6-24 installed in 2002 has exceeded its design life and is

00:57:29.920 --> 00:57:37.599
no longer operational and is unsupported by the manufacturer. Recent FAA inspections have documented

00:57:37.599 --> 00:57:46.239
this delinquency. This project proposes full replacement with FAA L-880 compliant LED systems

00:57:46.239 --> 00:57:52.239
which will provide visual guidance, increase air navigation safety, and reduce operation and

00:57:52.239 --> 00:57:58.559
maintenance costs. This project includes removal of the existing PAPI system and installation of

00:57:58.559 --> 00:58:05.519
the new LED floor box system at both runway ends. Power for both systems will be routed through the

00:58:05.519 --> 00:58:10.319
airport's existing lighting vault, improving reliability and maintenance efficiency.

00:58:10.319 --> 00:58:17.899
Cofford, Murphy, and Tilley, or CMT, has been selected and is our current airport engineer

00:58:17.899 --> 00:58:22.799
and provides the design, special services, and construction engineering under the IDOT

00:58:22.799 --> 00:58:29.299
approved agreement. The project is scheduled for bid letting in November of 2025 with contractor

00:58:29.299 --> 00:58:36.079
work anticipated from May to June of 2026. Engineering work will conclude by August of

00:58:36.079 --> 00:59:06.079
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,

00:59:06.079 --> 00:59:12.879
Services, and Construction Fays, and the city is responsible for a total $32,000 that is

00:59:12.879 --> 00:59:20.119
budgeted in fiscal year 2025 in the airport budget. Staff recommends moving forward with

00:59:20.119 --> 00:59:24.399
the agreement with Crawford, Murphy, and Tilley as our airport engineer.

00:59:24.399 --> 00:59:27.159
Is there a motion to adopt?

00:59:27.159 --> 00:59:28.159
So moved.

00:59:28.159 --> 00:59:29.159
Second.

00:59:29.159 --> 00:59:37.480
motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion.

00:59:37.480 --> 00:59:44.719
Alderman Stacey. So if they were to get into this project and something

00:59:44.719 --> 00:59:52.759
unexpectedly came up, where would that money come from? This is for engineering

00:59:52.759 --> 00:59:56.119
so they're telling us that's what it's going to cost to engineer the project

00:59:56.119 --> 00:59:58.239
Stewart, and to complete the project for the city.

00:59:58.239 --> 01:00:04.279
and to complete the project for the city. So that is what the city's paying and the

01:00:04.279 --> 01:00:09.799
total amount is six hundred and forty thousand. The total amount for the city

01:00:09.799 --> 01:00:16.279
is thirty-two thousand. I understand but the total for the project. Yes it's I it's

01:00:16.279 --> 01:00:20.279
itemized in the memo six hundred and forty thousand dollars. Okay I mean I'm

01:00:20.279 --> 01:00:24.599
just I'm just stating for the record.

01:00:24.599 --> 01:00:34.599
I just want to add one thing to Rob's point is we are currently having quite a few issues with the lighting system out there.

01:00:34.599 --> 01:00:44.599
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.

01:00:44.599 --> 01:00:48.599
And so the new system will alleviate some of that issue.

01:00:48.599 --> 01:01:01.599
We, we, the guidance system has to be able to turn them on at night and if that's not working then we have to go to leaving them on at night and we've seen significant increase in those electrical costs.

01:01:03.599 --> 01:01:04.599
Alderman Sanders.

01:01:04.599 --> 01:01:15.599
Yeah, is there a way that we can address that issue by manually turning those lights off when not needed, necessarily needed?

01:01:15.599 --> 01:01:16.599
and I.

01:01:16.599 --> 01:01:26.359
Is there any reason why we can't be in a, you know, have someone to manage all of that lighting

01:01:26.359 --> 01:01:30.919
system out there the proper way until we get the system back up and going?

01:01:30.919 --> 01:01:37.119
Well, I should answer that question, Manager Jansen said, but I would believe that we're

01:01:37.119 --> 01:01:41.359
not, we don't staff the airport 24-7, so it would be hard to have somebody turning them

01:01:41.359 --> 01:01:42.359
on and off.

01:01:42.359 --> 01:01:45.359
That's why they have to be left on at night.

01:01:45.359 --> 01:01:53.059
I can't, you mean to say it take a staff to turn lights on and off? It does it? It's set up that way?

01:01:53.059 --> 01:01:57.559
No, currently I believe it's automatic, but that system is not working.

01:01:57.559 --> 01:02:03.759
Okay, so what we're saying is manually we have to conduct that?

01:02:03.759 --> 01:02:08.759
Yep, when she leaves for the day, she turns them on. When she comes in the morning, she turns them off.

01:02:08.759 --> 01:02:10.559
I see. Okay, thank you.

01:02:12.559 --> 01:02:13.559
Alderman Stacy?

01:02:13.559 --> 01:02:21.479
Yes. I just want to state that, you know, why is the city paying for the airport? It's

01:02:21.479 --> 01:02:29.839
not a part of our strategic plan for development. Nowhere on the strategic planning document

01:02:29.839 --> 01:02:39.919
on the city page is there anything about the airport in our strategic plan even listed.

01:02:39.919 --> 01:02:44.359
Why is that, City Manager Boyer?

01:02:44.359 --> 01:02:49.079
I'll have to review it, but I thought it is mentioned, but I'd have to double check and

01:02:49.079 --> 01:02:50.079
review that.

01:02:50.079 --> 01:02:53.239
Yeah, we actually talked about it quite a bit last two years ago, and I'm sure we'll

01:02:53.239 --> 01:02:55.839
discuss it again in our September meeting.

01:02:55.839 --> 01:02:57.719
Why is it not on the page?

01:02:57.719 --> 01:03:02.479
Actually, I believe there it is listed on there, and I believe it actually one of the

01:03:02.479 --> 01:03:06.679
to-dos was an economic development plan.

01:03:06.679 --> 01:03:08.799
It's not on there.

01:03:08.799 --> 01:03:15.879
I would just like to remind everybody that the airport has its own master plan and this

01:03:15.879 --> 01:03:18.879
is part of the airport's master plan of replacement.

01:03:18.879 --> 01:03:23.559
That's why we're getting so much grant funding towards it and I think we talked about this

01:03:23.559 --> 01:03:28.619
before with the resealing of the pavement but we have taken quite a bit of money in

01:03:28.619 --> 01:03:33.259
federal grants towards the airport and we need to keep the airport up to federal standards

01:03:33.259 --> 01:03:38.479
or we will end up having to pay that money back over time.

01:03:38.479 --> 01:03:39.479
Any other discussion?

01:03:39.479 --> 01:03:40.479
Alderman Johnson?

01:03:40.479 --> 01:03:47.359
I'm just wondering, what would the ramifications be if this is not done?

01:03:47.359 --> 01:03:52.319
I don't know if Angie would like to speak to that, being that she's a little more, she'd

01:03:52.319 --> 01:03:55.319
have a better understanding of the ramifications.

01:03:55.319 --> 01:04:02.599
Basically, ramifications on it, basically it could be shut down.

01:04:02.599 --> 01:04:07.839
And if the airport is shut down, there's millions and millions and millions of money that has

01:04:07.839 --> 01:04:08.839
and others.

01:04:08.839 --> 01:04:09.839
We are not making parts for it.

01:04:09.839 --> 01:04:10.839
We are going to make parts for it.

01:04:10.839 --> 01:04:11.839
It has to be paid back.

01:04:11.839 --> 01:04:12.839
So that is bottom line.

01:04:12.839 --> 01:04:13.839
That is the ramifications of it.

01:04:13.839 --> 01:04:17.759
As it stands right now, Darren was correct in a lot of what he was saying.

01:04:17.759 --> 01:04:21.439
Our actually the PAPI system right now is not working at all.

01:04:21.439 --> 01:04:29.279
So it is like it was said that we cannot, we cannot make, or there is not parts for

01:04:29.279 --> 01:04:30.279
it anymore.

01:04:30.279 --> 01:04:34.199
They were making parts for it and we are to the point now that we are past that.

01:04:34.199 --> 01:04:37.239
So again, that could be the last result.

01:04:37.239 --> 01:04:39.239
and

01:04:40.239 --> 01:04:42.239
the City of Washington.

01:04:43.239 --> 01:04:45.239
And it could shut the airport down, which is not a good thing

01:04:46.239 --> 01:04:48.239
for everyone, for the city and everyone.

01:04:49.239 --> 01:04:51.239
Alderman Johnson. So it's not usable right at this

01:04:52.239 --> 01:04:54.239
moment? That is correct.

01:04:55.239 --> 01:04:57.239
Is that what you're saying? Yeah, that's why this is in the

01:04:58.239 --> 01:05:00.239
process of trying to get the new ones.

01:05:01.239 --> 01:05:03.239
Thank you. Thank you.

01:05:04.239 --> 01:05:06.239
Alderman, Sellers. Just want to know, how long

01:05:07.239 --> 01:05:09.719
because of everything with the bid letting and stuff like that.

01:05:09.719 --> 01:05:11.439
It's supposed to be completed, I believe.

01:05:11.439 --> 01:05:13.879
Manager Boyer ended up saying that.

01:05:13.879 --> 01:05:15.559
I believe it's next year, yeah.

01:05:15.559 --> 01:05:16.799
Yep, it'd be.

01:05:16.799 --> 01:05:19.239
And sometimes it does get moved up a little quicker.

01:05:19.239 --> 01:05:20.839
We can always cross our fingers.

01:05:20.839 --> 01:05:22.439
But it will be as of next year.

01:05:22.439 --> 01:05:24.579
The thing is, is what the state looks at

01:05:24.579 --> 01:05:28.719
and the feds look at is at least it's in the process.

01:05:28.719 --> 01:05:32.219
That's what they care about, that it's going to happen.

01:05:32.219 --> 01:05:34.559
But if there's nothing in the process,

01:05:34.559 --> 01:05:35.960
that's when we have an issue.

01:05:35.960 --> 01:06:00.960
Yeah, is this project budgeted? Yeah, the city's portion. We have the grants and everything. The grants are already done, yep. They're done and we're moving forward with everything at this time. Yep. Okay, I could ask more questions but I'm going to leave it at that for now.

01:06:00.960 --> 01:06:30.960
if there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Klemm, Johnson. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item number 17 is the adoption of resolution 2025-74. Could you please read this? Resolution ratifying Emergency Police Department HVAC system repairs by GeoStar Mechanical. Thank you, Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. Over the last

01:06:30.960 --> 01:06:36.659
Just three years, the city's police department has had reoccurring HVAC or air conditioning

01:06:36.659 --> 01:06:38.139
issues.

01:06:38.139 --> 01:06:43.439
The facility air conditioning system, which is original to the building, has had compressor

01:06:43.439 --> 01:06:49.939
loss at alarming rates, so I think we've gone through three compressors at this point.

01:06:49.939 --> 01:06:54.739
So due to the last two compressors only lasting nine months and the replacement only lasting

01:06:54.739 --> 01:07:00.939
one week, Darren, from Fehr Graham, as the Public Works Director-Consultant, requested

01:07:00.939 --> 01:07:09.939
We requested getting a professional third-party electrician involved and also a generator specialist for total system evaluation.

01:07:09.939 --> 01:07:17.939
And during the research and discovery phase, all internal police station electrical demands and wiring were checked.

01:07:17.939 --> 01:07:24.939
After this was complete, the city requested that ComEd bring in a team of specialists to evaluate the facility

01:07:24.939 --> 01:07:30.539
and the transformer load rating on the building with specialized monitoring equipment.

01:07:30.539 --> 01:07:37.339
ComEd monitors proved that the police department was being deprived of full electrical power

01:07:37.339 --> 01:07:39.979
during sporadic levels of demand.

01:07:39.979 --> 01:07:45.000
After more research, it was found that an adjacent building that was upgraded three

01:07:45.000 --> 01:07:54.219
years ago had added sufficient demand on these transformers, which changed the load and was

01:07:54.219 --> 01:08:00.000
and others, causing our local Transformers to not supply sufficient power to the police

01:08:00.000 --> 01:08:02.099
station under high demand.

01:08:02.099 --> 01:08:08.479
So the monitoring equipment proved when all of their systems hit in the new upgraded building

01:08:08.479 --> 01:08:12.599
that the power lines at the same time the Transformers couldn't keep up and comment

01:08:12.599 --> 01:08:17.139
representatives told city staff that the city can file a claim for all costs associated

01:08:17.139 --> 01:08:18.340
with the event.

01:08:18.340 --> 01:08:21.619
So that is the plan currently.

01:08:21.619 --> 01:08:26.939
Director, Richter, is compiling all of the city's costs for these events over the last

01:08:26.939 --> 01:08:29.460
several years for a claim.

01:08:29.460 --> 01:08:34.340
ComEd responded with new larger transformers after the power shortage was uncovered and

01:08:34.340 --> 01:08:39.500
the police station has not had any power related issues since then.

01:08:39.500 --> 01:08:46.659
So the city will pay GeoStar $55,804.15 for the emergency repairs.

01:08:46.659 --> 01:08:50.859
Furthermore the staff will file a claim with ComEd for all costs and expenses related to

01:08:50.859 --> 01:08:57.939
these incidents due to the lack of supply required for our air conditioning system at the City

01:08:57.939 --> 01:08:59.639
Police Department.

01:08:59.639 --> 01:09:07.260
So staff recommends approve the GeoStar emergency invoice and we will continue to recover our

01:09:07.260 --> 01:09:11.260
costs with ComEd in the coming weeks and months.

01:09:11.260 --> 01:09:13.180
Is there a motion to adopt?

01:09:13.180 --> 01:09:14.180
So moved.

01:09:14.180 --> 01:09:15.180
Second.

01:09:15.180 --> 01:09:19.180
We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

01:09:19.180 --> 01:09:20.180
Discussion?

01:09:20.180 --> 01:09:47.180
Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item number 18 is approval of bid. Could you please read this?

01:09:47.180 --> 01:09:53.180
There was a bid opening on June 13th, 2025 for the Westward Water Main Expansion.

01:09:53.180 --> 01:09:55.180
Manager Boyer?

01:09:55.180 --> 01:09:58.180
Thank you, Your Honor. So, Fehr Graham designed and permitted the new 12-inch

01:09:58.180 --> 01:10:02.300
Graham designed and permitted the new 12-inch water main installation for West

01:10:02.300 --> 01:10:07.539
Stevenson Street from Radmar to the city limits. That would include Open Bible and

01:10:07.539 --> 01:10:14.220
a public bid opening was held on Friday, June 13th at 10 a.m. at City Hall. City

01:10:14.220 --> 01:10:19.260
staff received four local bids for this important project from Kelsey Excavating,

01:10:19.260 --> 01:10:24.960
Northern Illinois Service Company, Helm Civil, and Fisher Excavating. Helm Civil

01:10:24.960 --> 01:10:33.659
was the low bidder at $631,889.50. This project was for the water main, gate

01:10:33.659 --> 01:10:38.760
valves, water services, and fire hydrants to this corridor that don't currently

01:10:38.760 --> 01:10:42.960
have city water available. City restoration will be limited to the

01:10:42.960 --> 01:10:46.960
water main trench only and the low bid and all four bids were under the

01:10:46.960 --> 01:10:52.800
engineer's estimate. I believe that was north of $900,000. So this project will

01:10:52.800 --> 01:10:58.880
will be paid for with CIP funds and staff recommends approval of the bid with Helm Civil.

01:10:58.880 --> 01:11:01.360
Is there a motion to approve?

01:11:01.360 --> 01:11:02.360
So moved.

01:11:02.360 --> 01:11:03.360
Second.

01:11:03.360 --> 01:11:09.880
We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.

01:11:09.880 --> 01:11:10.880
Discussion on the bid?

01:11:10.880 --> 01:11:11.880
Alderman Sanders?

01:11:11.880 --> 01:11:12.880
Yeah.

01:11:12.880 --> 01:11:18.600
It goes back to where we started with this whole conversation.

01:11:18.600 --> 01:11:23.480
I think we were back two resolutions ago,

01:11:23.480 --> 01:11:26.180
that this resolution should not pass

01:11:26.180 --> 01:11:30.560
simply because we still don't have a resolution

01:11:30.560 --> 01:11:35.060
for how we even got to this position of having a new,

01:11:35.060 --> 01:11:39.320
and I understand, I don't know what the protocol is

01:11:39.320 --> 01:11:42.000
for replacement of water main,

01:11:42.000 --> 01:11:43.960
but I didn't know replacement of water main

01:11:43.960 --> 01:11:46.560
start at one section and then goes

01:11:46.560 --> 01:11:48.480
all the way to the city limits.

01:11:48.480 --> 01:11:55.720
Limits. I didn't quite understood that part, and where did that city limit became a part

01:11:55.720 --> 01:12:04.659
of the expansion, became a part of the expansion of Bradmar, westwardly, westwardly. And so

01:12:04.659 --> 01:12:10.000
I can understand if it's old and ancient and dilapidated, which I know it isn't because

01:12:10.000 --> 01:12:17.840
that development area is not all that old to have a new replacement of water main. But

01:12:17.840 --> 01:12:26.560
But anyway, it's here in this resolution for replacement of a water main that we have not

01:12:26.560 --> 01:12:33.159
had any understanding why would that water main out there in the Bradmar location needs

01:12:33.159 --> 01:12:34.820
to be replaced.

01:12:34.820 --> 01:12:40.300
We have not talked about that, nor have we got any clarification, but the thing that

01:12:40.300 --> 01:12:46.320
bothers me is the fact that it all is coming back to the city limits.

01:12:46.320 --> 01:12:52.840
The City Limits is at a certain point where it passes right back to where we started with

01:12:52.840 --> 01:12:57.520
the Bible study, extensions and things of that nature.

01:12:57.520 --> 01:13:05.480
So what it is doing is repeating itself and why we have a position where contractors want

01:13:05.480 --> 01:13:13.780
to bid on this project, it needs to be understood how do we even get to this point to bring

01:13:13.780 --> 01:13:20.740
Bradmar and the city limits all together to understand that this water main is now in the

01:13:20.740 --> 01:13:26.020
formation of being bedded on and council has not discussed these matters.

01:13:26.020 --> 01:13:34.820
Well clue me in to how we got to this point where Bradmar is asking for a replacement

01:13:34.820 --> 01:13:40.579
of water main and we have not had a discussion on the matter and the fact that I know we

01:13:40.579 --> 01:13:48.380
out there playing titterly winks with the extension of the Bible study extension for

01:13:48.380 --> 01:13:51.340
Watermain to be included.

01:13:51.340 --> 01:13:58.100
Help me to understand why it is that now we're talking about all of it being meshed together

01:13:58.100 --> 01:14:03.260
and we don't know exactly where the funding is coming from and the council has not even

01:14:03.260 --> 01:14:06.700
made an appeal or discussion on this issue.

01:14:06.700 --> 01:14:09.320
I know we're talking parts of it.

01:14:09.320 --> 01:14:14.119
We're talking part, and then we're going to put them all together, and that should not

01:14:14.119 --> 01:14:22.520
be the case here. And I don't feel that we should be trying to approve a bidding opening

01:14:22.520 --> 01:14:29.440
for anything at this point when it's in this kind of form and being brought to the Council

01:14:29.440 --> 01:14:36.240
for an approval. I don't get that. It just dumb-founds me how we even get to this point.

01:14:36.240 --> 01:14:41.740
for you guys to insult the intelligence of the council to bring this before us.

01:14:41.740 --> 01:14:48.119
I think it's a matter of injustice or some kind of ludicrous formation that is being

01:14:48.119 --> 01:14:51.760
put together to do whatever you want to do.

01:14:51.760 --> 01:14:58.680
I just don't get it, but anyway, that's my opinion and that's how I feel about it.

01:14:58.680 --> 01:15:00.480
Manager Boyer?

01:15:00.480 --> 01:15:07.320
Just to speak to you a few points, just to recap, 20 years ago, there was a handshake

01:15:07.320 --> 01:15:16.520
agreement with the then Fire Chief and the water utility that said we'll pursue the construction

01:15:16.520 --> 01:15:22.659
of this structure if we get water service out there within a period of time.

01:15:22.659 --> 01:15:28.680
Those people have either died, retired, or have moved on to other issues.

01:15:28.680 --> 01:15:34.140
We had a change of the State Fire Marshal who upon inspection noticed that none of the fire

01:15:34.140 --> 01:15:42.520
suppression systems within the facility that is one of our largest young child care facilities

01:15:42.520 --> 01:15:45.659
had no operational sprinkler system.

01:15:45.659 --> 01:15:51.880
So staff began the work with City Council's permission to put together a design, which

01:15:51.880 --> 01:15:52.880
we did.

01:15:52.880 --> 01:15:56.100
Then we pursued grant funding, which we were unsuccessful in getting.

01:15:56.100 --> 01:16:01.320
then we brought it back to Council to go ahead and have it bid. That was approved by Council.

01:16:01.320 --> 01:16:06.860
We went ahead and had it bid and we are now bringing this before Council for approval.

01:16:06.860 --> 01:16:15.119
And I want to remind everyone here that this is not serving a single child care facility.

01:16:15.119 --> 01:16:21.740
It's also providing water for 11 different homes along Stevenson that don't have access

01:16:21.740 --> 01:16:27.100
and others, and it's also providing water for Highland College and also Freeport School

01:16:27.100 --> 01:16:33.659
District. So I hope that clears it up, but it was approved by council to move forward

01:16:33.659 --> 01:16:36.140
with this bidding process.

01:16:36.140 --> 01:16:41.460
And I believe we've been talking about this for about a year now. And the water main doesn't

01:16:41.460 --> 01:16:47.700
actually I have the floor. Well, you can't have the floor. So just to let you know that

01:16:47.700 --> 01:17:17.700
Fowler, Mayor, Mayor, Mayor, Mayor, Mayor

01:17:17.700 --> 01:17:24.340
and

01:17:24.340 --> 01:17:30.340
I was not done. Well you've actually are done with your piece of it so Alderman

01:17:30.340 --> 01:17:36.340
Shadle would you like to be next? Yeah I just I'm not understanding why this is so

01:17:36.340 --> 01:17:43.020
hard to understand. Bradmar had a new water main last summer. We're tying into

01:17:43.020 --> 01:17:51.300
the corner of Stevenson and Bradmar to extend the water main west. This is a new

01:17:51.300 --> 01:17:55.300
and I have a new water main because there is nothing there.

01:17:55.300 --> 01:17:59.300
Radmar is not getting a new water main.

01:17:59.300 --> 01:18:03.300
They got a new water main last summer.

01:18:03.300 --> 01:18:07.300
Anyone else? Alderman Stacy?

01:18:07.300 --> 01:18:11.300
Yes.

01:18:11.300 --> 01:18:15.300
All of this mix-up and confusion

01:18:15.300 --> 01:18:19.300
started when it was brought to the Council

01:18:19.300 --> 01:18:39.300
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.

01:18:39.300 --> 01:18:46.300
and I. And it was never brought to the council floor. It was never dealt with nor talked

01:18:47.060 --> 01:18:54.060
about on the council floor. And so now when they got busted at the last inspection for

01:18:55.860 --> 01:19:02.860
not having a working water sprinkler, they were given a grace period, and I don't remember

01:19:09.300 --> 01:19:37.300
I remember if it was a year or if it was six months, but it ended in March, I do know that, and so where we had spoke about this in 2024, and where it had even failed on vote, then once you got re-elected, Mayor Miller, everything came back up again.

01:19:37.300 --> 01:19:45.260
because you would have the votes to push you to and pass it so this is why a

01:19:45.260 --> 01:19:50.820
piece here and a piece here and a piece here now we just talked about this water

01:19:50.820 --> 01:19:59.740
main up here and you keep changing the name now it's West whatever

01:19:59.740 --> 01:20:07.420
Now it's West, whatever, but why couldn't both of those numbers be put back to back?

01:20:07.420 --> 01:20:15.180
Why is one up here in 14 or 15 or 16 and then one down here at 18?

01:20:15.180 --> 01:20:21.560
And it's just to, I don't know, I don't know, I'm not confused, but are you trying to confuse

01:20:21.560 --> 01:20:22.560
the council?

01:20:22.560 --> 01:20:24.180
Are you trying to confuse the people?

01:20:24.180 --> 01:20:27.380
What really are we doing here?

01:20:27.380 --> 01:20:33.380
Well, the order of agenda is set by ordinance. Madam Clerk, would you like to explain that?

01:20:33.380 --> 01:20:38.380
Okay, so there's an ordinance that said we could not talk about this until 18?

01:20:38.380 --> 01:20:46.380
That would be correct. There's an order. Madam Clerk, would you like to explain that? We just passed it at the last meeting.

01:20:46.380 --> 01:20:48.380
Well, we keep changing these ordinance.

01:20:48.380 --> 01:20:49.380
No, it's not. Go ahead.

01:20:49.380 --> 01:20:52.380
Yeah, you just passed the last meeting.

01:20:52.380 --> 01:20:56.380
It's an order of how our agendas are set up.

01:21:02.380 --> 01:21:04.380
Is there any other discussion?

01:21:04.380 --> 01:21:05.380
Yeah.

01:21:05.380 --> 01:21:06.380
Alderman Sanders.

01:21:06.380 --> 01:21:12.380
Yeah, first of all, I don't know who's creating the order of our agenda.

01:21:12.380 --> 01:21:18.380
So one portion of it ends up at the deep last ending of the agenda.

01:21:18.380 --> 01:21:20.380
So it doesn't get discussed as much.

01:21:20.380 --> 01:21:21.380
and so on.

01:21:21.380 --> 01:21:27.380
I don't know much, but my whole point is, and just to elaborate on some things, to do

01:21:27.380 --> 01:21:35.060
a replacement, to even discuss something of that magnitude, we need to see the paperwork

01:21:35.060 --> 01:21:43.100
that brought that into view, that a resolution for water main evaluation analysis updates

01:21:43.100 --> 01:21:47.740
and the reason why, because everything is scheduled.

01:21:47.740 --> 01:21:55.700
These domains are usually scheduled throughout the year, decades, or whatever the case is, for new upgrades and all these kinds of things.

01:21:55.700 --> 01:22:03.860
But the thing that bothers me is that, if we don't have the monies where it's supposed to be,

01:22:03.860 --> 01:22:11.260
and I hate for people to be, when they're regurgitating things, to have a different viewpoint of opinion

01:22:11.260 --> 01:22:14.900
or how it was addressed the very first two times.

01:22:14.900 --> 01:22:23.540
If we're going to talk about this, then the city clerk should be talking about what it was that we approved and did not approve of.

01:22:23.540 --> 01:22:31.180
We should be able to reiterate all of those things that we talked about the first two, three meetings

01:22:31.180 --> 01:22:40.100
and the disagreements of why we didn't want to approve that first extension to the Bible study.

01:22:40.100 --> 01:22:47.700
Well, the thing about it is now we have roped it to include it back into a proposal, but

01:22:47.700 --> 01:22:52.540
first of all, we have not discussed the fact that it matter whether or not the Bradmar

01:22:52.540 --> 01:22:58.620
extension or replacement water main was even relevant. We have not discussed that. Who

01:22:58.620 --> 01:23:05.420
does the study and get all the data and the information that shows us that we're having

01:23:05.420 --> 01:23:10.500
and water main issues that needs to be replaced in the Bradmar sector.

01:23:10.500 --> 01:23:16.660
And if we don't have that, then we can't make an informed decision on how we want to go and

01:23:16.660 --> 01:23:21.780
vote on these matters simply because the information is not coming to us.

01:23:21.780 --> 01:23:26.660
And that's the reason why we're sitting here paused at what is being said.

01:23:26.660 --> 01:23:34.340
And so my whole thing is, what are we going to do when it comes to making these payments?

01:23:34.340 --> 01:24:02.740
Who's going to cover the bill when we don't have the monies and we talked millions of dollars just to extend that water main to the, yes, we did, we talked about, I remember that really clearly, that we talked, it was about 1.2 million dollars to extend it from one intersection to the Bible study, that's what my last recollection was.

01:24:02.740 --> 01:24:14.980
and until we go back and review that whole discussion, from this point on, I'm not accepting

01:24:14.980 --> 01:24:21.580
anything that is being said until we have had an opportunity to review the matters of

01:24:21.580 --> 01:24:27.300
things that we have discussed and that's why we're sitting here right now with scratching

01:24:27.300 --> 01:24:33.660
I hear is on how we got here, and now we're trying to put bidders in place to do the construction

01:24:33.660 --> 01:24:34.660
work of it.

01:24:34.660 --> 01:24:35.660
I just don't get it.

01:24:35.660 --> 01:24:40.520
It sounds like a three-wing circus to me, and it should not be going on like that.

01:24:40.520 --> 01:24:42.280
That's my opinion, you know.

01:24:42.280 --> 01:24:50.020
So anybody can rebut me, challenge me, or they can help me to understand is what is

01:24:50.020 --> 01:24:51.020
needed.

01:24:51.020 --> 01:24:52.020
Darren?

01:24:52.020 --> 01:24:53.020
Yes.

01:24:53.020 --> 01:24:55.880
So I'll try to explain this another time.

01:24:55.880 --> 01:25:02.100
There is no water main or no study to do going to the west of Bradmar because water main

01:25:02.100 --> 01:25:06.160
does not exist there currently and has never existed.

01:25:06.160 --> 01:25:10.600
It's an area of town that is unserved.

01:25:10.600 --> 01:25:16.580
Last year, I believe it was last year and the year before, we replaced the water main

01:25:16.580 --> 01:25:20.980
at Bradmar and town as part of the city project.

01:25:20.980 --> 01:25:24.860
This project came to the Council the first time it was denied.

01:25:24.860 --> 01:25:25.900
It was brought back.

01:25:25.900 --> 01:25:28.460
It was approved to design.

01:25:28.460 --> 01:25:29.780
We designed it.

01:25:29.780 --> 01:25:32.260
We permitted it with Council's approval.

01:25:32.260 --> 01:25:34.380
We bid it at Council approval.

01:25:34.380 --> 01:25:38.380
Just happens to be that you were not at the meeting that the Council approved to go out

01:25:38.380 --> 01:25:39.380
to bid.

01:25:39.380 --> 01:25:42.220
That's probably why you don't recall that.

01:25:42.220 --> 01:25:44.380
That was about a month ago.

01:25:44.380 --> 01:25:50.380
And now here is the bid for approval.

01:25:50.380 --> 01:25:55.940
Any other questions on the bid?

01:25:55.940 --> 01:25:56.940
Seeing none, Alderman Simmons?

01:25:56.940 --> 01:26:02.300
So, again, Mr. Stiegel, this is all under the premise that these are so many grants

01:26:02.300 --> 01:26:05.580
out there that we would be sure if I were to get one.

01:26:05.580 --> 01:26:09.940
And I would just like to ask, can you name one that you applied for?

01:26:09.940 --> 01:26:10.940
Yes.

01:26:10.940 --> 01:26:14.620
Community Development Block Grant, CDBG grant, we tried to get that grant.

01:26:14.620 --> 01:26:16.980
We went after Congressional Direct Spending.

01:26:16.980 --> 01:26:19.380
We sent a request to John Cabello.

01:26:19.380 --> 01:26:21.740
We sent requests to Eric Sorensen.

01:26:21.740 --> 01:26:22.740
We sent letters.

01:26:22.740 --> 01:26:28.460
The mayor sent multiple letters out asking for help with this project.

01:26:28.460 --> 01:26:32.660
Unfortunately, it's not a project that really qualifies.

01:26:32.660 --> 01:26:37.020
It's not that big of a project in the scope of a big, large water main project.

01:26:37.020 --> 01:26:39.460
And again, we're not redoing the entire road.

01:26:39.460 --> 01:26:42.460
We're only doing the trench.

01:26:42.460 --> 01:26:44.660
You've already spoken twice, Larry.

01:26:44.660 --> 01:26:45.660
Okay.

01:26:45.660 --> 01:27:00.660
Oh, I had asked for a deadline for the application. I'm glad that you noted reaching out and asking people, but I mean actual grant applications, so you did name the community development grant, but I would like the deadline that had to have been turned in by as well.

01:27:00.660 --> 01:27:14.660
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 have to look it up, but it was the end of 2024 for CDBG. It's only offered once a year.

01:27:14.660 --> 01:27:20.740
If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the vote on approving the bid.

01:27:20.740 --> 01:27:22.740
Simmons? No.

01:27:22.740 --> 01:27:24.020
Parker? Aye.

01:27:24.020 --> 01:27:25.460
Stacy? No.

01:27:25.460 --> 01:27:26.660
Shadle? Aye.

01:27:26.660 --> 01:27:27.940
Sanders? No.

01:27:27.940 --> 01:27:29.140
Sellers? Aye.

01:27:29.140 --> 01:27:30.500
Klemm? Aye.

01:27:30.500 --> 01:27:32.180
Johnson? Aye.

01:27:32.180 --> 01:27:37.380
The motion is approved five to three.

01:27:37.380 --> 01:27:43.140
Item number 19 is another bid approval. Could you please read this?

01:27:43.140 --> 01:27:50.580
There was a bid opening on June 24, 2025 for the MFT routing and crack filling program for 2025.

01:27:51.140 --> 01:27:58.100
Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. So as our ongoing pavement maintenance program exists,

01:27:58.100 --> 01:28:04.500
we have probably 20 miles or so in town that we've reconstructed in the last several years.

01:28:04.500 --> 01:28:10.900
As part of maintaining that, we need to do crack filling and other maintenance things to make sure

01:28:10.900 --> 01:28:24.420
We have requested a bid on crack filling services. The city received these two local bids for

01:28:24.420 --> 01:28:32.460
this specialty pavement project from Denlar Inc. and SKC Construction. SKC Construction

01:28:32.460 --> 01:28:37.460
of West Dundee was the low bidder at $76,178.49.

01:28:40.340 --> 01:28:44.060
SKC was awarded the contract the last time the city did

01:28:44.060 --> 01:28:47.820
crack sealing maintenance and did a very nice job for us

01:28:47.820 --> 01:28:49.560
and we're very happy with their work.

01:28:49.560 --> 01:28:52.900
So the low bid was actually under engineer's estimate

01:28:52.900 --> 01:28:57.900
and as I mentioned, 76,000 is a very low bid

01:28:58.020 --> 01:28:59.740
and the project will be paid for

01:28:59.740 --> 01:29:03.220
through our motor fuel tax funding for 2025,

01:29:03.220 --> 01:29:07.860
and staff's recommendation is to approve the SK construction bid.

01:29:07.860 --> 01:29:09.460
Motion to approve.

01:29:09.460 --> 01:29:10.940
Second.

01:29:10.940 --> 01:29:14.500
Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle.

01:29:14.500 --> 01:29:16.580
Discussion on the approval of this bid.

01:29:19.220 --> 01:29:21.180
Madam Clerk, please take the roll.

01:29:21.180 --> 01:29:23.500
Simmons?

01:29:23.500 --> 01:29:24.260
Parker?

01:29:24.260 --> 01:29:25.060
Aye.

01:29:25.060 --> 01:29:25.740
Stacy?

01:29:25.740 --> 01:29:26.740
No.

01:29:26.740 --> 01:29:27.300
Shadle?

01:29:27.300 --> 01:29:28.140
Aye.

01:29:28.140 --> 01:29:37.500
Sanders is absent, Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The motion passes five to two.

01:29:39.740 --> 01:29:45.580
Next is reports of department heads, finance? Thank you. Community development? Nothing tonight,

01:29:45.580 --> 01:29:53.740
Madam Mayor. Thank you. Public works? Some street and water main updates. Cleveland started this

01:29:53.740 --> 01:29:58.060
This week with point repairs happening tomorrow, Cleveland from Burchard to Empire will be

01:29:58.060 --> 01:29:59.700
closed most of the day tomorrow.

01:29:59.700 --> 01:30:02.620
Weir will be closed most of the day tomorrow.

01:30:02.620 --> 01:30:09.500
Black Hawk Water Main started today, starting at Dewey Street, moving north, should be under

01:30:09.500 --> 01:30:15.340
construction probably at least the next month, and then they should be moving to Willow Street.

01:30:15.340 --> 01:30:19.580
Carroll is under construction from Empire to Galena.

01:30:19.580 --> 01:30:23.380
They should be working on water services this week and then transferring to the other side

01:30:23.380 --> 01:30:26.060
of the street, working towards Adams.

01:30:26.060 --> 01:30:31.340
Williams, there'll be a lot of construction going on within the city limits moving forward

01:30:31.340 --> 01:30:36.300
for the rest of the summer so please be cautious and courteous around the road closures and

01:30:36.300 --> 01:30:42.340
also the traffic control devices to make sure the contractors and our city workers are safe.

01:30:42.340 --> 01:30:43.340
Fire?

01:30:43.340 --> 01:30:46.020
Yes, thank you, Your Honor.

01:30:46.020 --> 01:30:52.420
Last week the fire department responded to 124 calls for service.

01:30:52.420 --> 01:31:01.940
of those days of the week, I'll describe what our crews went through on the 4th of July.

01:31:01.940 --> 01:31:08.340
They began their shift in the afternoon with a car crash that resulted in one adult fatality,

01:31:08.340 --> 01:31:14.420
one child in critical condition that was flown out to Rockford. Then later in the evening

01:31:14.420 --> 01:31:20.180
they responded to a fire on Madison Street, a residential fire, which was started by a

01:31:20.180 --> 01:31:50.180
and

01:31:50.180 --> 01:31:52.180
and

01:31:53.180 --> 01:31:55.180
Mr.

01:31:57.180 --> 01:31:59.180
L.

01:32:01.180 --> 01:32:03.180
K.

01:32:04.180 --> 01:32:10.180
In 2022 when the state of Illinois passed the safety act, it required officers to fulfill training mandates by July 1st of 2025.

01:32:10.180 --> 01:32:14.180
Some of those trainings were scenario based trainings, de-escalation.

01:32:14.180 --> 01:32:16.180
and others.

01:32:18.280 --> 01:32:20.280
We have a lot of training training, scenario-based

01:32:21.160 --> 01:32:23.580
training, de-escalation. These courses have to be renewed on

01:32:23.580 --> 01:32:26.900
an annual two-year, three-year basis. I'm happy to report that

01:32:26.900 --> 01:32:30.900
all of our officers were able to get all the required training

01:32:30.900 --> 01:32:34.100
done by July 1st of this year. Something that not every

01:32:34.100 --> 01:32:38.100
department was able to do. It was a lot of work for us to

01:32:38.100 --> 01:32:41.460
organize that. I'm just glad that, I'm proud of them for

01:32:41.460 --> 01:32:48.240
Certifications Needed, Library, I just want to make sure everybody knows that the

01:32:48.240 --> 01:32:59.340
library is closed on Saturday for Teddy Baker days, that's it, IT, Airport, City

01:32:59.340 --> 01:33:02.780
Manager, thank you honor I would like to take a few minutes and thank our

01:33:02.780 --> 01:33:08.220
dedicated crews that responded to I believe 11 water main breaks this last

01:33:08.220 --> 01:33:12.580
last week, they are correlated with maintenance that we're doing in the system and the installation

01:33:12.580 --> 01:33:18.380
of hydropneumatic tanks that we've put in place and preparing for the repainting of

01:33:18.380 --> 01:33:20.660
the Birchard Tower.

01:33:20.660 --> 01:33:27.760
Also I would like to highlight a major service, police department, I greatly appreciate the

01:33:27.760 --> 01:33:34.540
work that's gone on there as well recently with a major drug bust and recovery of dangerous

01:33:34.540 --> 01:33:40.660
Weapons. So thank you very much on that Chief. So that's all I have tonight. And I

01:33:40.660 --> 01:33:44.460
just wanted to thank you to everyone that participated in the resource party in the

01:33:44.460 --> 01:33:49.300
Church on the Street put by High Hope Freeport and the next event will be on

01:33:49.300 --> 01:33:58.300
Saturday the 19th at Knowlton Square. Alderman Simmons, Alderman Parker,

01:33:58.300 --> 01:33:59.980
Nothing Allerman State

01:34:02.220 --> 01:34:03.740
Nothing Alderman Shadle

01:34:04.780 --> 01:34:10.540
Like to mention the neighborhood watch for Sixth Ward was moved from last Thursday to this week

01:34:11.340 --> 01:34:17.020
July 10th 6 p.m. Schwartz and Park Boulevard. Alderman Sanders

01:34:17.020 --> 01:34:18.940
Nothing Alderman Sellers

01:34:18.940 --> 01:34:21.180
Nothing Alderman Klemm

01:34:21.180 --> 01:34:31.180
I just wanted to bring up like Alderman Shadle who have a neighborhood watch the last Tuesday of the month.

01:34:31.180 --> 01:34:39.180
And Alderman Johnson stepped out. So that leaves us with public comment. Robert Holtz.

01:34:51.180 --> 01:34:58.060
Mayor, City Council, Hello, my name is Robert Holt and I'm the AFSCME Staff Representative

01:34:58.060 --> 01:35:03.500
for Local 3367, the Municipal Employees of Freeport, Illinois.

01:35:03.500 --> 01:35:08.760
I come to you today due to the actions of the city's administration silencing the voices

01:35:08.760 --> 01:35:14.200
of our members by disciplining a member for engaging in legally protected activity.

01:35:14.200 --> 01:35:21.060
Union concerted activity allows members or a member acting on behalf of others to voice

01:35:21.060 --> 01:35:24.600
and

01:35:24.600 --> 01:35:25.600
Here are the facts.

01:35:25.600 --> 01:35:31.580
According to the Stevenson County ETSB, the city must have two dispatchers on duty and

01:35:31.580 --> 01:35:37.360
currently there are two shifts where there are only two telecommunicators staffed.

01:35:37.360 --> 01:35:41.780
But that does not mean that there are always two telecommunicators dispatching emergency

01:35:41.780 --> 01:35:42.780
calls.

01:35:42.780 --> 01:35:46.740
During their shift when a telecommunicator takes the contractually obligated break or

01:35:46.740 --> 01:35:52.580
for lunch, there is a telecommunicator actively responding to 911 calls, answering the non-emergency

01:35:52.580 --> 01:35:56.680
phone line, and assisting citizens at the front window.

01:35:56.680 --> 01:36:01.300
It is the policy of the city that when an emergency medical 911 call comes in and there

01:36:01.300 --> 01:36:06.620
are no available ambulances in the city, that 911 dispatchers have been instructed to place

01:36:06.620 --> 01:36:11.900
those emergency calls on hold to reach out to a third-party medical provider.

01:36:11.900 --> 01:36:21.260
Those statements are facts.

01:36:21.260 --> 01:36:27.260
And for bringing those facts to this body out of the concern for the public and the liability

01:36:27.260 --> 01:36:31.360
placed on the dispatchers, our member was disciplined.

01:36:31.360 --> 01:36:36.260
She received discipline for voicing not only her concerns, but those of her fellow co-workers.

01:36:36.260 --> 01:36:40.940
Unfortunately for the City of Freeport, we believe that that action taken against her

01:36:40.940 --> 01:36:43.280
is Illegal.

01:36:43.280 --> 01:36:47.100
The local and myself are more than willing to resolve this issue within the grievance

01:36:47.100 --> 01:36:54.740
procedure, but if that's not the case, then we will, then we are and we will be prepared

01:36:54.740 --> 01:37:01.740
to file an unfair labor, or unfair label charge, unfair labor charge with the Illinois Labor

01:37:01.740 --> 01:37:04.620
Relations Board to ensure that our members made whole.

01:37:04.620 --> 01:37:05.620
Thank you.

01:37:05.620 --> 01:37:35.580
and Melissa. Melissa Schnepper, 2019 West Laurel. I'm in the

01:37:35.580 --> 01:37:42.580
I'm in the process of moving back to Freeport. I grew up here, lived here most of my life, got married, moved to Wisconsin.

01:37:42.580 --> 01:37:46.580
And I was very much looking forward to moving back to this town.

01:37:46.580 --> 01:37:53.580
But I recently paid my property taxes and was horrified by the amount that I am paying.

01:37:53.580 --> 01:37:57.580
And a lot of questions about what it is that I am paying.

01:37:57.580 --> 01:38:03.660
What I see the we've got the 1% proposed tax on groceries

01:38:03.660 --> 01:38:09.780
I mentioned that to some friends in Evansville this weekend and they laughed at me and I told them how much we were paying in sales

01:38:09.780 --> 01:38:15.960
Tax, they thought it was a joke. Is that the kind of reputation you want the city to have a laughable

01:38:16.940 --> 01:38:18.940
overtax community

01:38:18.940 --> 01:38:25.220
I love Freeport and I was really looking forward to coming back here, but the taxes here are incredibly high

01:38:25.220 --> 01:38:34.100
and I. You're taxing people out of places to live. What, as I'm looking at my tax bill,

01:38:34.100 --> 01:38:40.020
I'm wanting to know what the home rule tax is. What does that money go toward? I've asked

01:38:40.020 --> 01:38:45.440
and nobody can answer that for me. And what is the, regarding property taxes, Freeport

01:38:45.440 --> 01:38:51.580
City Corporation tax, what is that? I have no idea what that is. What are the, what's

01:38:51.580 --> 01:38:54.180
What is the assessment process on our properties?

01:38:54.180 --> 01:38:56.860
That seems to be a mystery to me as well.

01:38:56.860 --> 01:39:01.100
You talk about how we are, with the 1% tax,

01:39:01.100 --> 01:39:04.260
we're gonna get, we're gonna bridge the gap

01:39:04.260 --> 01:39:09.140
of an $800,000 deficit for this budget in this town.

01:39:09.140 --> 01:39:14.140
Well, for saving money on the water main materials,

01:39:15.700 --> 01:39:18.220
why is there a deficit?

01:39:18.220 --> 01:39:19.460
That doesn't make any sense.

01:39:19.460 --> 01:39:21.280
or Road Improvements.

01:39:21.280 --> 01:39:23.480
That doesn't make any sense to me either.

01:39:23.480 --> 01:39:26.240
We're taking in all this tax money.

01:39:26.240 --> 01:39:28.040
Where's the money going?

01:39:28.040 --> 01:39:29.080
Where's it going?

01:39:29.080 --> 01:39:31.080
I don't understand.

01:39:33.080 --> 01:39:36.540
We keep raising taxes and the roads still look like garbage.

01:39:36.540 --> 01:39:37.380
It's embarrassing.

01:39:37.380 --> 01:39:39.540
Where's the 20 miles of improvements?

01:39:39.540 --> 01:39:40.760
Somebody please look at me.

01:39:40.760 --> 01:39:42.120
I'm talking to you.

01:39:42.120 --> 01:39:43.960
Where's the improvement?

01:39:43.960 --> 01:39:44.800
I don't know where it is.

01:39:44.800 --> 01:39:47.420
And who is JoLynn Miller?

01:39:47.420 --> 01:39:57.100
Who is Jolin Miller? Because Jolin Miller is making $100,000 according to the 2024 annual

01:39:57.100 --> 01:39:59.700
Treasurer's Report on the Finance Committee website?

01:39:59.700 --> 01:40:26.860
I had to respond to, I'm Rhonda Scott again, I had to respond to the 1% tax that Alderman

01:40:26.860 --> 01:40:34.620
Simmons brought up, we are taking money from people and we have been taking it since 1990.

01:40:34.620 --> 01:40:42.500
In 1990, we were more well off in Freeport. We had more people. The town looked better.

01:40:42.500 --> 01:40:48.140
In 1994, I moved here and all the stores downtown were filled. We had a mall that was filled

01:40:48.140 --> 01:40:57.980
with Hallmark Stores. Every store was filled. Now it's 2025, and we are paying still the

01:40:57.980 --> 01:41:05.940
1% tax, which is producing $800,000. And what are we doing with that money? We're spending

01:41:05.940 --> 01:41:11.980
over a million dollars to extend our infrastructure out to Open Bible, where my daughter went

01:41:11.980 --> 01:41:15.660
to Preschool from 2002 to 2004.

01:41:15.660 --> 01:41:17.980
They had water back then.

01:41:17.980 --> 01:41:20.780
Now, there's fire suppression system is down.

01:41:20.780 --> 01:41:24.140
But is this the only way you can take care of fire suppression?

01:41:24.140 --> 01:41:26.980
My daughter was there, and they had fire suppression.

01:41:26.980 --> 01:41:28.740
And they must have had a well.

01:41:28.740 --> 01:41:31.180
But we're spending over a million dollars

01:41:31.180 --> 01:41:35.380
to extend our infrastructure when our population has decreased

01:41:35.380 --> 01:41:37.700
to 23,000 people.

01:41:37.700 --> 01:41:41.020
And our property taxes are ridiculous.

01:41:41.020 --> 01:41:47.020
and more than most communities where the standard of living is much higher.

01:41:47.020 --> 01:41:54.520
This is ridiculous, $800,000 is being collected from our grocery bill and yet we're spending

01:41:54.520 --> 01:41:59.220
over $600,000 on an airport.

01:41:59.220 --> 01:42:06.220
Why is Freeport with 23,000 people funding a regional airport so that 65 individuals

01:42:06.220 --> 01:42:10.620
can keep their aircraft out there and we're paying for it with our grocery money?

01:42:10.620 --> 01:42:11.620
It's ridiculous.

01:42:11.620 --> 01:42:12.620
Wendy?

01:42:12.620 --> 01:42:31.860
Good evening Council, City of Freeport, my name is Wendy Pearson, I live at 1323 South

01:42:31.860 --> 01:42:32.860
Chicago Avenue.

01:42:32.860 --> 01:42:37.980
I've got a couple of questions and I'm pretty sure I'm not going to get any answers but

01:42:37.980 --> 01:42:38.980
I'm going to put them out there anyway.

01:42:38.980 --> 01:42:44.820
I'd like to know how we how do we get to the place where we are the citizens of

01:42:44.820 --> 01:42:49.740
Freeport are being held hostage to a million dollars should the airport shut

01:42:49.740 --> 01:42:57.900
down is that based around matching grants that we'd have to pay back where

01:42:57.900 --> 01:43:02.860
is it coming from and if it should shut down where are we getting the money to

01:43:02.860 --> 01:43:11.360
to replace this, $32,000 for an airport that none of us utilize and as she stated you see

01:43:11.360 --> 01:43:15.500
the individuals that are utilizing are all corporate individuals that we're paying for

01:43:15.500 --> 01:43:20.500
them to be out there and I want to know how much they're paying us to have their planes

01:43:20.500 --> 01:43:25.400
anchored there, how much are they paying us for runway costs and maintenance and repairs,

01:43:25.400 --> 01:43:29.380
how much are we getting from those 80 plus people that have the opportunity to fly a

01:43:29.380 --> 01:43:36.980
Plain, into this very small town that we don't need.

01:43:36.980 --> 01:43:41.180
As far as Open Bible is concerned, we don't have a problem with supplying water to individuals

01:43:41.180 --> 01:43:44.180
who own homes and are paying taxes as well.

01:43:44.180 --> 01:43:51.460
20 years ago, 30 years ago, when you had a verbal agreement with nothing on paper stating

01:43:51.460 --> 01:43:55.540
that this is what we were supposed to be doing and promising those individuals out at Open

01:43:55.540 --> 01:44:08.940
and Michael. We have a problem with putting an extension onto a piece of property that

01:44:08.940 --> 01:44:13.700
is a private entity that is making quite a bit of money. And not only are they making

01:44:13.700 --> 01:44:18.940
quite a bit of money, they are also receiving quite a few grant dollars and government funding

01:44:18.940 --> 01:44:24.320
for that school. So we don't have a problem with supplying water to people that are supplying

01:44:24.320 --> 01:44:26.740
and

01:44:26.740 --> 01:44:33.100
we do have a problem with paying for entities that already have government dollars floating

01:44:33.100 --> 01:44:38.180
out there for those children and sometimes not in the best conditions because I've been

01:44:38.180 --> 01:44:40.880
told that sometimes kids come home pretty dirty.

01:44:40.880 --> 01:44:44.560
Now let me take it a little bit farther.

01:44:44.560 --> 01:44:48.180
Chief you talked about buying a new vehicle.

01:44:48.180 --> 01:44:52.940
I'd like to know how much this administration is gonna pay

01:44:52.940 --> 01:44:56.580
based around the Washington, D.C.'s administration,

01:44:56.580 --> 01:44:59.660
and I will not acknowledge the person that's sitting there,

01:44:59.660 --> 01:45:03.540
and tariffs, because it was basically exposed

01:45:03.540 --> 01:45:06.140
that when the new cars came out,

01:45:06.140 --> 01:45:09.020
the tariff dollars was gonna kick anybody in their butt

01:45:09.020 --> 01:45:10.320
that was buying a new one.

01:45:10.320 --> 01:45:11.820
So I'd like to know how much of that money

01:45:11.820 --> 01:45:15.140
is a tariff tax that has been placed on vehicles,

01:45:15.140 --> 01:45:16.940
and how much are we paying?

01:45:18.180 --> 01:45:24.180
As far as ordinances are concerned, ordinances have been changed, ma'am.

01:45:24.180 --> 01:45:25.180
Your time has expired, Wendy, thank you.

01:45:25.180 --> 01:45:28.180
Just to make it clear to you, your time has expired.

01:45:28.180 --> 01:45:29.180
Thank you.

01:45:29.180 --> 01:45:30.180
Next.

01:45:30.180 --> 01:45:31.180
Yes, ma'am.

01:45:31.180 --> 01:45:41.180
Christina Rice, I live on Staver Street.

01:45:41.180 --> 01:45:42.180
All right.

01:45:42.180 --> 01:45:47.180
So I do, you guys actually got me off off the couch tonight.

01:45:47.180 --> 01:46:11.180
So grant money is at a minimal right now and we keep spending $32,000, $90,000 to have things engineered and it's not coming through so what's happening with that money 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?

01:46:11.180 --> 01:46:13.180
and

01:46:14.260 --> 01:46:16.260
the rest of the board.

01:46:17.440 --> 01:46:21.440
Do you work for Freeport or do you work for Fehr Graham?

01:46:21.440 --> 01:46:23.440
You get paychecks from both?

01:46:23.440 --> 01:46:25.440
Okay.

01:46:25.440 --> 01:46:27.440
Let's not go back and forth.

01:46:31.440 --> 01:46:33.440
And also, I came here seven years ago about the lighting issue

01:46:33.440 --> 01:46:37.440
in Freeport, and then it's kind of a slap in the face that

01:46:37.440 --> 01:46:39.440
nothing was done until this year, and then all of a sudden

01:46:39.440 --> 01:46:46.540
and I. And then all of a sudden the airport comes up and we do something about it. Who's

01:46:46.540 --> 01:46:53.360
more important, our citizens or the airport? Put timers on the lights. Okay. And then we've

01:46:53.360 --> 01:47:03.960
also had $1.7 million for what, a building downtown to be torn down and it's still there.

01:47:03.960 --> 01:47:13.560
and where is the money? Then we also had $400,000 for safe streets. Where is the money? So I

01:47:13.560 --> 01:47:20.680
want to know why you guys don't have itemized grant lists. What happens with the grant money

01:47:20.680 --> 01:47:29.920
itemized on your website? Because I think you at least owe us that. And if, how much

01:47:29.920 --> 01:47:48.920
How much time do I have left? If they need help with the fire department, answering the telephone calls, and if you can't help them, then it's Mayor Jodi Miller's responsibility, and it's Rob's responsibility, because you guys are our leaders in this city.

01:47:48.920 --> 01:47:52.920
And that's all I have to say.

01:47:52.920 --> 01:48:21.920
Kim Sims, 23 West Empire Street. I was wondering about Teddy Bakers. Does anybody know who brought Teddy Baker back, this festival they're putting before the Stevenson County Fair? Why are we doing that? Why are we doing that?

01:48:21.920 --> 01:48:29.920
that. Because the Stevenson County Fair is what gives our kids scholarships and all that.

01:48:29.920 --> 01:48:33.800
But what does Tuddy Baker give them? Who gets all the money from Tuddy Baker? Where

01:48:33.800 --> 01:48:41.120
do the proceeds go? Can somebody tell me that? Where do the proceeds go from Tuddy Baker?

01:48:41.120 --> 01:48:51.840
Did somebody answer that? No? Okay, so nobody knows where the money goes. Excuse me. Ma'am,

01:48:51.840 --> 01:48:57.340
Public comment is not for discourse back and forth, it's not for dialogue, but you are free to express your opinion.

01:48:57.340 --> 01:49:05.340
Where we can find out who runs Huddy Baker, where the money goes, and maybe we can get that money and give that to the children of our city.

01:49:05.340 --> 01:49:08.840
Give them something to do during the summer, besides run the streets and cause trouble.

01:49:08.840 --> 01:49:13.340
There's no place for these kids to go. No place.

01:49:13.340 --> 01:49:17.340
Next.

01:49:26.340 --> 01:49:30.340
Paige Kerr, 103 Arbor Drive.

01:49:30.340 --> 01:49:37.340
Over the past few months I brought concerns to this council, especially around the relationship between certain members and perceived conflict of interest.

01:49:37.340 --> 01:49:39.340
But tonight, I'm here with a solution.

01:49:39.340 --> 01:49:41.340
Artificial Intelligence.

01:49:41.340 --> 01:49:46.340
Now before that phrase makes anyone uneasy, I want to say something I believe to be true.

01:49:46.340 --> 01:49:50.340
I have a feeling some of you sitting here today already know AI is coming.

01:49:50.340 --> 01:49:55.340
Maybe you've seen early reports, maybe you've been part of the conversations.

01:49:55.340 --> 01:49:59.340
So this isn't about pushing a radical idea, it's about guiding what's already unfolding.

01:49:59.340 --> 01:50:00.340
Fowler.

01:50:00.340 --> 01:50:04.860
I want to introduce a bold but grounded proposal.

01:50:04.860 --> 01:50:09.180
Let's use AI to promote accountability where it matters most.

01:50:09.180 --> 01:50:15.140
Not to surveil everyday citizens, but to monitor decision-making at the top, where power is

01:50:15.140 --> 01:50:18.420
held and where corruption hides.

01:50:18.420 --> 01:50:21.540
Rather than fearing artificial intelligence, let's consider how it can serve the public

01:50:21.540 --> 01:50:24.740
good, especially when it comes to government transparency.

01:50:24.740 --> 01:50:31.340
A.I. is capable of monitoring those in positions in power, ensuring funds are allocated properly,

01:50:31.340 --> 01:50:34.900
promises are tracked, and corruption is flagged early.

01:50:34.900 --> 01:50:39.620
Imagine public dashboards visually showing where city money is going and where the gaps

01:50:39.620 --> 01:50:41.420
exist.

01:50:41.420 --> 01:50:45.500
Just for an example, residents could see that one neighborhood received three times more

01:50:45.500 --> 01:50:53.120
funding for road repairs rather than another, prompting clear, data-backed decisions.

01:50:53.120 --> 01:50:58.120
Not only that, but AI can triage complaints from the public, prioritize the most urgent

01:50:58.120 --> 01:51:02.960
ones like a broken street light near a school, and even predict maintenance needs before

01:51:02.960 --> 01:51:05.400
they arise.

01:51:05.400 --> 01:51:11.840
But above all else, AI is an unbiased tool, one that can enhance your positions, hold

01:51:11.840 --> 01:51:16.020
you accountable, and begin to win back public trust.

01:51:16.020 --> 01:51:19.200
And understand this, we're not jumping into the unknown.

01:51:19.200 --> 01:51:23.960
is proposing $55 million in A.I. capacity grants to help cities responsibly experiment

01:51:23.960 --> 01:51:31.360
with these tools. San Jose is already running civic sandbox pilots. These aren't hypothetical.

01:51:31.360 --> 01:51:37.960
They're happening. So why not lead? Open A.I., Google, Palantir, these companies already

01:51:37.960 --> 01:51:42.060
have had closed door discussions with city officials across the country. You might already

01:51:42.060 --> 01:51:46.720
be aware of this. This might be your last chance to lead the city of Freeport through

01:51:46.720 --> 01:51:51.160
through this transition, and be remembered as the council that embraced truth, transparency,

01:51:51.160 --> 01:51:52.980
and innovation.

01:51:52.980 --> 01:51:58.720
You can take this moment to lead, or you can wait and let AI decide for you.

01:51:58.720 --> 01:52:17.380
Next Good evening again, my name is Cheryl Altman, Alderman Johnson. When we were talking

01:52:17.380 --> 01:52:21.200
about the one percent, you know what I heard? I heard you say you were worried about the

01:52:21.200 --> 01:52:24.840
city of Freeport. I didn't hear you say you were worried about the citizens who are going

01:52:24.840 --> 01:52:27.120
You're gonna have to pay that extra money again.

01:52:27.120 --> 01:52:28.960
Not once did you care about the citizens.

01:52:28.960 --> 01:52:31.060
Who put you in that seat?

01:52:31.060 --> 01:52:31.900
You're wrong.

01:52:33.200 --> 01:52:35.560
Second of all, the budget.

01:52:36.960 --> 01:52:39.320
Smile Mayor, keep smiling.

01:52:39.320 --> 01:52:40.280
But you know what?

01:52:41.200 --> 01:52:42.880
We all have to live in a budget.

01:52:43.740 --> 01:52:45.940
The city, when they don't get to what they want,

01:52:45.940 --> 01:52:50.940
they raise the taxes, raise sales taxes, and it continues.

01:52:51.480 --> 01:52:54.440
You buy new public work trucks, why?

01:52:54.440 --> 01:52:56.520
Use the old ones until they can't run.

01:52:57.800 --> 01:52:58.800
Chief, they did.

01:53:00.940 --> 01:53:01.780
But you're not.

01:53:02.800 --> 01:53:05.000
Second of all, Public Works.

01:53:05.000 --> 01:53:06.200
You're working with Fehr Graham.

01:53:06.200 --> 01:53:09.460
That's kind of a conflict of interest, big time.

01:53:11.040 --> 01:53:12.520
And why can't we look at somebody else

01:53:12.520 --> 01:53:14.560
besides Fehr Graham like Willett and Hoffman,

01:53:14.560 --> 01:53:15.800
who do the same thing that you do,

01:53:15.800 --> 01:53:18.180
and probably will do it cheaper.

01:53:18.180 --> 01:53:19.900
But there's a connection between you working

01:53:19.900 --> 01:53:23.180
for the Public Works and Fehr Graham.

01:53:23.180 --> 01:53:27.180
and that's why Fehr Graham gets all this, and it's wrong.

01:53:29.660 --> 01:53:31.160
You know, like again, I said, you know,

01:53:31.160 --> 01:53:34.880
the rest of us live on a budget, the city should too.

01:53:34.880 --> 01:53:37.700
Mayor, you can smell all you want, but you know what?

01:53:37.700 --> 01:53:39.300
People are catching up to you.

01:53:39.300 --> 01:53:41.300
They're onto your sneaky little crap.

01:53:41.300 --> 01:54:11.300
Hi, I'm Sue Cook. Gosh, where do I live? I live in Freeport. As far as this one percent tax, I thank God that Governor Pritzker lifted

01:54:11.300 --> 01:54:12.300
and others.

01:54:12.300 --> 01:54:17.860
I'm not so happy that you all are going to be putting it back on.

01:54:17.860 --> 01:54:23.220
That's because when you are looking at taxes, when you did your 3% tax, it was a little

01:54:23.220 --> 01:54:24.220
bit different in the city.

01:54:24.220 --> 01:54:26.320
It was a little bit different climate.

01:54:26.320 --> 01:54:29.140
People weren't losing their jobs like crazy.

01:54:29.140 --> 01:54:34.500
People weren't having companies closed like, you know, little dominoes, but that's happening

01:54:34.500 --> 01:54:35.500
now.

01:54:35.500 --> 01:54:40.900
That's happening, and that's why the governor took the 1% off the grocery tax, to give the

01:54:40.900 --> 01:54:44.020
and the people a little bit of breathing room.

01:54:44.020 --> 01:54:48.820
And by God, who put the tax back on?

01:54:48.820 --> 01:54:50.660
It surely wasn't the Democrat.

01:54:50.660 --> 01:54:53.240
It surely wasn't Governor Pritzker.

01:54:53.240 --> 01:54:58.240
It was the party that says the Democrats tax like crazy.

01:54:58.460 --> 01:55:00.140
I about died, I about fell over.

01:55:00.140 --> 01:55:02.220
I was like, what?

01:55:03.180 --> 01:55:05.560
This does not make sense.

01:55:05.560 --> 01:55:06.520
We have savings.

01:55:06.520 --> 01:55:08.960
Darren said we're saving on certain things.

01:55:08.960 --> 01:55:23.960
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.

01:55:23.960 --> 01:55:29.960
Maybe some people get different jobs or jobs actually start to come back into the market.

01:55:29.960 --> 01:55:35.960
The other thing I want to say is thank you for creating the ADA Grievance Board. That is amazing.

01:55:35.960 --> 01:55:42.960
And I have your first grievance. By closing that parking lot down there as early as you did,

01:55:42.960 --> 01:55:45.960
which was because we're going to have Teddy Baker Day starting on Friday,

01:55:45.960 --> 01:55:51.960
you closed the parking lot off to everybody today. Yes, they wanted to park their little stuff in there.

01:55:51.960 --> 01:55:56.960
But we could wait till Thursday because there's four handicapped parking spots,

01:55:56.960 --> 01:55:59.880
One that has two of them that have a crater the size of the moon

01:56:00.040 --> 01:56:04.600
But they there are four there and you block them off to the public

01:56:05.560 --> 01:56:06.960
so

01:56:06.960 --> 01:56:12.400
To the ADA grievance board, please. Will you open the parking lot till maybe Thursday?

01:56:13.280 --> 01:56:15.120
Thank you very much

01:56:15.120 --> 01:56:17.120
Are there any other public comments?

01:56:26.960 --> 01:56:32.960
My name is Micaiah Stacy. I live in Freeport. For how long? I guess nobody really knows.

01:56:32.960 --> 01:56:35.960
I just got back here and I'm ready to leave already.

01:56:35.960 --> 01:56:40.960
I was watching on my phone. I was at work. And the best thing I've heard all meeting

01:56:40.960 --> 01:56:45.960
is that we're buying a Tahoe from Carl because I worked at Carl while I went to school.

01:56:45.960 --> 01:56:50.960
And they're good people. Kind of sucks that they have to get dirty money.

01:56:50.960 --> 01:56:54.960
How many times do us as citizens have to get up,

01:56:54.960 --> 01:56:59.960
Stand in front of this council, stand in front of our mayor and say, hey, it really sucks to live here.

01:57:00.360 --> 01:57:02.360
Property taxes are going up.

01:57:02.360 --> 01:57:06.960
Every place we have to rent is either a slumlord or it's skyrocketed out of the roof.

01:57:07.240 --> 01:57:09.240
This is not Chicago by any means.

01:57:09.240 --> 01:57:11.880
No one should be paying over a thousand dollars for an apartment.

01:57:12.580 --> 01:57:14.140
That's a little crazy.

01:57:14.140 --> 01:57:18.020
And every day we wake up and there's a new tax.

01:57:18.520 --> 01:57:22.780
Kind of like Sue was saying, oh, all the Democrats bring up all the all the taxes.

01:57:22.780 --> 01:57:27.580
and then we get back here to Freeport who has potholes and

01:57:27.580 --> 01:57:31.180
Teddy Baker days and poor people that can barely pay their

01:57:31.180 --> 01:57:34.860
house taxes and we say, yeah, you can buy a $30 wristband

01:57:34.860 --> 01:57:38.300
and have a little bit of fun and maybe not pop your tire on

01:57:38.300 --> 01:57:43.500
a pothole going out. When are you actually going to listen

01:57:43.500 --> 01:57:50.540
to the people and what we need and not the top tier rich

01:57:50.540 --> 01:57:59.540
and many other 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.

01:57:59.540 --> 01:58:05.540
And I think we've kind of forgotten the plot here.

01:58:05.540 --> 01:58:11.540
This group of people matters more than this group. You're supposed to listen to us.

01:58:11.540 --> 01:58:16.540
We voted you in. I didn't vote you in. We voted you in.

01:58:16.540 --> 01:58:46.540
and we expect it to be taken care of and all I can see is people taking care of their friends and patting their own pockets and leaving the rest of us garbage, nothing, so we get up here every week and we look at you in the face and we say can you please be a good person and you slam that gavel down and say hell no and then we say dang maybe next week and then we get back up here and you're tired of looking at my face and I'm tired of talking to you but I won't stop because it's annoying and I know it is.

01:58:46.540 --> 01:58:58.540
Until you can recognize what your town actually is and get out of your head that living over on that side of town where nothing really even happens is the best part of Freeport.

01:58:58.540 --> 01:59:08.540
And Freeport isn't that bad. We will get nowhere. There has to be some give. I'm willing to have a little bit of give. But there also has to be give with the people in power. Thank you.

01:59:16.540 --> 01:59:25.740
You started my time before I spoke, but that's cool too.

01:59:25.740 --> 01:59:31.620
I want to just say I appreciate Mrs. Stacy, Larry, and Rachel, I'm always going to recognize

01:59:31.620 --> 01:59:32.620
them.

01:59:32.620 --> 01:59:33.860
This won't take long, don't point it out.

01:59:33.860 --> 01:59:38.580
Rob, I want you to keep my lawyer's name in my name out your mouth, okay?

01:59:38.580 --> 01:59:41.300
That lawsuit sticking, whatever you think, you ain't a lawyer, are you?

01:59:41.300 --> 01:59:45.140
You're supposed to be a city manager, but I wonder why you can't figure out how to turn

01:59:45.140 --> 01:59:50.860
and a light switch off to save the city some money, you know, and we wouldn't be so against

01:59:50.860 --> 01:59:54.860
you if we wasn't, if the city wasn't washing money through you.

01:59:54.860 --> 01:59:58.780
We are paying $90,000 for you to scribble on some paper, give me $90,000, I can get

01:59:58.780 --> 01:59:59.340
you a lot of money.

01:59:59.340 --> 02:00:00.340
Spence.

02:00:00.340 --> 02:00:01.340
Wonderful.

02:00:15.040 --> 02:00:17.180
My house has cameras on it.

02:00:17.180 --> 02:00:18.100
Bet you I ain't know that.

02:00:18.100 --> 02:00:20.340
You always getting called up, slippin'.

02:00:20.340 --> 02:00:23.880
That's harassment at the end of the day.

02:00:23.880 --> 02:00:25.620
Smell all you want to.

02:00:25.620 --> 02:00:29.100
I know smellin' is nervousness.

02:00:29.100 --> 02:00:32.100
Yeah, do all that. Clown.

02:00:32.100 --> 02:00:38.100
But anyway, I want to speak up on all the money you guys are taking from people.

02:00:38.100 --> 02:00:41.100
You guys got us beat now. I try to tell my people, you got us beat.

02:00:41.100 --> 02:00:50.100
We got three people up here for us, but I swear to God, I will not sleep in 2027 when it's time to get rid of some of this shit.

02:00:50.100 --> 02:01:05.100
Any other public comments? We will move on to Alderman Stacy.

02:01:07.100 --> 02:01:17.900
Alderman Stacy, as I said many times before, we start in prayer, we can end in

02:01:17.900 --> 02:01:28.100
Prayer. And my scripture for tonight is Psalms 121-1. I will lift up my eyes unto the hills

02:01:28.100 --> 02:01:36.380
from which cometh my help. Father God, in the name of Jesus, I come to you seeking your

02:01:36.380 --> 02:01:46.660
face. I seek you, O God, with this declaration of faith. I trust you as the source of all

02:01:46.660 --> 02:01:49.320
Fowler,

02:01:49.320 --> 02:01:55.460
Father, God, for you sit high and you look low, and you know more than we could ever

02:01:55.460 --> 02:02:04.100
tell you, so I'm asking you, Father, in the name of Jesus, to take back control over this

02:02:04.100 --> 02:02:06.640
your city.

02:02:06.640 --> 02:02:11.800
We're trusting and we're depending on you, and we're not going to stop, we're not going

02:02:11.800 --> 02:02:13.560
to give up.

02:02:13.560 --> 02:02:29.560
We know, God, if you don't do it, it won't be done. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

02:02:29.560 --> 02:02:34.200
Next is Executive Session. Madam Clerk, could you please read this?

02:02:34.200 --> 02:02:40.560
We will go in for two different exemptions. Pursuant to 5 ILCS, 122C3, the selection

02:02:40.560 --> 02:03:10.560
Oh, that's not right. Pursuant to 5-ILCS-122-C5, 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 5-ILCS-122-C21, discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under the- We're 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.

02:03:10.560 --> 02:03:13.560
as mandated by Section 2.06.

02:03:13.560 --> 02:03:16.560
Is there a motion to enter into Executive Session?

02:03:16.560 --> 02:03:17.560
So moved.

02:03:17.560 --> 02:03:18.560
Second.

02:03:18.560 --> 02:03:27.560
We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.

02:03:27.560 --> 02:03:28.560
Roll call.

02:03:28.560 --> 02:03:29.560
Simmons?

02:03:29.560 --> 02:03:30.560
Aye.

02:03:30.560 --> 02:03:31.560
Parker?

02:03:31.560 --> 02:03:32.560
Aye.

02:03:32.560 --> 02:03:33.560
Stacy?

02:03:33.560 --> 02:03:34.560
Aye.

02:03:34.560 --> 02:03:35.560
Shadle?

02:03:35.560 --> 02:03:36.560
Aye.

02:03:36.560 --> 02:03:37.560
Sanders?

02:03:37.560 --> 02:03:38.560
Sellers?

02:03:38.560 --> 02:03:39.560
Aye.

02:03:39.560 --> 02:03:41.560
Klemm and Johnson.