Meeting Events

Meeting: 3vkkyedlozu.city_council_meeting_3-3-2025

Meeting date: 2025-03-03

Meeting type: city_council

This is a deterministic derived artifact, not official meeting minutes. Related records may be grouped for review while complete machine provenance remains in the JSON artifact.

Decisions and Votes

• Approval of Agenda — Passed

  • Summary: Motion to approve the agenda.
  • Attribution: Alderman Monroe, Mayor Miller
  • Evidence: “So with that, is there a motion to approve the agenda? So moved. Second. The motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
  • Evidence: “All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes.”
  • Source timestamp: 04:11

• Approval of Minutes from February 18th, 2025 — Passed

  • Summary: Motion to approve the minutes from the regular meeting on February 18th, 2025.
  • Attribution: Alderman Shadle, Mayor Miller
  • Evidence: “Item number two is the approve of the minutes from the regular meeting on February 18th, 2025. Is there a motion? Sommel. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker.”
  • Evidence: “All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes.”
  • Source timestamp: 04:21

• Approval of Consent Agenda items — Passed

  • Summary: Motion to approve receiving and placing on file board and commission minutes from January 28th, 2025; Greater Freeport Partnerships Annual Report for 2024; Police Department Report January 25th; Greater Freeport Partnerships Monthly Report for February 2025; finance bills payable totaling $2,780,624.53; and payroll for pay period ending February 22nd, 2025 totaling $709,166.14.
  • Evidence: “Seeing none, we’ve got the consent agenda consisting of approving to receive and place on file the board and commission minutes from the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners dated January 28th, 2025, the Greater Freeport Partnerships Annual Report for 2024, the Police Department Report January 25th, Greater Freeport Partnerships Monthly Report for February 2025, approval of the finance bills payable in the total of $2,780,624.53, and the approval of payroll for pay period ending February 22nd, 2025 in the total of $709,166.14.”
  • Evidence: “Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Simmons? Aye. The motion passes 8 to 0.”
  • Source timestamp: 08:00

• Adoption of resolution approving agreement with MSA — Approved

  • Summary: The council moved to item number six: adoption of resolution 2025-30, which approves an agreement with MSA Professional Services to provide IDA home repair and accessibility program grant writing Services.
  • Evidence: “we move on to item number six which is the adoption of resolution 2025 30 madam clerk could you please read this for the record resolution to approve an agreement with MSA professional services to provide IDA home repair and accessibility program grant writing Services.”
  • Source timestamp: 38:18

• Adoption of resolution 2025 30 with MSA — Passed

  • Summary: Motion to move forward with the resolution approving agreement with MSA professional services.
  • Evidence: “So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
  • Evidence: “Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. The motion passes six to two.”
  • Source timestamp: 40:09

• Approval of appointment of Roger Scholz to Library Board — Passed

  • Summary: Motion made to approve the appointment of Roger Scholz to the Library Board.
  • Attribution: Alderman Klemm
  • Evidence: “Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Monroe.”
  • Evidence: “A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Monroe.”
  • Evidence: “Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. And the motion is approved, eight to zero.”
  • Source timestamp: 43:45

• Approval of Ordinance 2025-12 Zoning Code Amendment — Passed

  • Summary: The ordinance amending the Zoning Code passed.
  • Evidence: “Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. The ordinance passes 8 to 0 and item number 10 is the second reading of ordinance 2025 11”
  • Source timestamp: 46:37

• Approval of Ordinance 2025-11 Hanger Leases — Passed

  • Summary: The ordinance approving hanger leases passed.
  • Evidence: “Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Kessler. Aye. And Simmons. Aye. The ordinance passes 8-0.”
  • Source timestamp: 48:29

• Roll call for initial action

  • Summary: Roll call taken following the review of leases.
  • Attribution: Staff/Clerk
  • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Kessler. Aye. And Simmons. Aye.”
  • Source timestamp: 48:29

• Ordinance passage (initial) — Passed

  • Summary: The ordinance passed 8-0.
  • Attribution: Council
  • Evidence: “The ordinance passes 8-0.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:00:13

• Suspension of rules for lease approval — Passed

  • Summary: Motion to suspend the rules and approve the second batch of leases.
  • Attribution: Alderman Klemm
  • Evidence: “Is there a motion to move this forward? Second. Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Monroe.”
  • Evidence: “As per requested is there if anyone would like to motion motion to suspend the rules second Alderman Monroe seconded by Alderman Sellers a suspension of the rules is non debatable and was passed by two-thirds majority madam clerk would you please take the role on the suspension only”
  • Source timestamp: 49:26

• Roll call for suspension of rules

  • Summary: Roll call taken on the suspension of rules.
  • Attribution: Staff/Clerk
  • Evidence: “Parker aye Stacy aye Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. And Simmons? Aye.”

• Ordinance 2025-13 passage (final) — Passed

  • Summary: The ordinance passed 8 to 0 after the final reading.
  • Attribution: Staff/Clerk
  • Evidence: “Madam Clerk please take the roll. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? Aye. And Simmons? Aye. This ordinance has passed 8 to 0.”
  • Source timestamp: 51:13

• Moving forward with property purchase for Well Number 12

  • Summary: Staff recommended moving forward with the purchase of a property approximately seven acres south of Crate Park to ensure receipt of grant funding.
  • Attribution: Staff
  • Evidence: “So staff is asking for a suspension of $5 million. Settler. I just want to emphasize the importance of this moving forward. We are planning on going out to bed at the end of the month with well house number 12 and it’s imperative that we have the property in place in order to get the forgiveness and and the emergent contaminants money.”
  • Source timestamp: 53:51

• Suspension of Rules for Ordinance Approval — Passed

  • Summary: A motion was made to suspend the rules regarding the ordinance approval.
  • Attribution: Alderman Monroe, Clerk
  • Evidence: “Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers for suspension of the rules.”
  • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll on the suspension only? Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Klemm, Monroe, and Simmons. The suspension of the rules passes eight to zero.”
  • Source timestamp: 56:26

• Adoption of Resolution 2025-26 regarding Mississippi Centers for Supervision — Passed

  • Summary: Vote on the resolution.
  • Evidence: “Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Monroe is absent. Simmons, since you’re returning, Alderperson Monroe, do you want to vote or not? Okay, thank you. That is eight to zero and the resolution is adopted.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:03:41

• Agreement with Fehr Graham for project planning

  • Summary: A motion was made to adopt the agreement with Fehr Graham.
  • Evidence: “So staff requests, council move forward with this agreement with Fehr Graham to move forward. The total cost of the agreement is $218,150 and that will prepare us for utilization of these funds in the 2026 construction season. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved.”
  • Evidence: “Second. A motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:05:16

• Adoption of resolution 2025-28 (Item number 16) — Adopted

  • Summary: The resolution was adopted by a vote of 8 to 0.
  • Evidence: “Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. And Simmons. The resolution is adopted 8 to 0.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:10:59

• Approval of resolution for demolition at 402-404-E Shawnee

  • Summary: Motion to approve the resolution regarding the emergency demolition.
  • Attribution: Alderman Parker
  • Evidence: “Is there a motion to approve this resolution? Second. A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:12:47

• Payment bill for contractor work

  • Summary: Vote on the payment bill.
  • Evidence: “Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. Monroe? No. Simmons? No.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:20:53

• Adoption of Resolution on Lighting Costs

  • Summary: A motion was made to adopt a resolution regarding lighting costs.
  • Evidence: “Is there a motion to adopt this resolution? I make a motion. Second it.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:32:01

• Adoption of Resolution on Lighting Costs — Passed

  • Summary: The resolution was adopted with an eight to zero vote count.
  • Evidence: “Parker. Aye. Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Klemm. Aye. Monroe. Aye. And Simmons. Aye. Simmons. The resolution is adopted eight to zero.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:35:29

Procedural Actions

• Invocation

  • Summary: Linda was asked to give the invocation.
  • Attribution: Mayor Miller
  • Evidence: “Linda, could you please give the invocation?”
  • Source timestamp: 00:24

• Calling Meeting to Order

  • Summary: The Mayor officially called the meeting to order.
  • Attribution: Mayor Miller
  • Evidence: “So with that, I’ll officially call this meeting to order.”
  • Source timestamp: 03:03

• Agenda Item 1 Approval

  • Summary: Discussion regarding the agenda, noting that item number 23 (executive) will not be having.
  • Evidence: “Item number one is the approval of the agenda, however, we will not be having item number 23, which is executive.”
  • Source timestamp: 03:42

• Consent Agenda

  • Summary: The council moved to address the consent agenda item number four.
  • Evidence: “Number four is the consent agenda.”
  • Source timestamp: 07:49

• Consent Agenda consideration

  • Summary: The consent agenda was considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion.
  • Evidence: “Number four is the consent agenda. The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion. Unless there’s a member of the council that would like to have something removed for further discussion.”
  • Source timestamp: 07:49

• Mayor’s disqualification from voting due to conflict of interest

  • Summary: A request was made for the chair to disqualify themselves from voting because Mayor Miller has a financial interest in the party set to receive funds, violating ethical standards.
  • Evidence: “I believe Mayor Miller should be disqualified from voting on this matter due to the significant conflict of interest. Specifically, Mayor Miller is related to the party that is set to receive the funds and has a financial interest in their business.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:21:08

• Adjournment of meeting

  • Summary: A motion was made to adjourn the meeting.
  • Evidence: “Then that concludes our meeting. I’ll take a motion for adjournment. So moved.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:41:51

Ordinances and Resolutions

• Adoption of resolution 2025 30 regarding MSA professional services agreement

  • Summary: Resolution to approve an agreement with MSA professional services to provide IDA home repair and accessibility program grant writing Services.
  • Evidence: “Madam clerk could you please read this for the record resolution to approve an agreement with MSA professional services to provide IDA home repair and accessibility program grant writing Services.”
  • Source timestamp: 38:18

• Appointment of Roger Scholz to Library Board

  • Summary: Appointment of Roger Scholz to the Library Board for a three-year term effective through May 31, 2028.
  • Evidence: “Item number eight is an appointment. Could you please read this? Appointment of Roger Scholz to the Library Board for a three-year term effective through May 31, 2028.”
  • Source timestamp: 43:45

• Ordinance 2025-12: Zoning Code Amendment for Storage Facilities

  • Summary: Second reading of Ordinance 2025-12, amending chapters 1248 and 1252 of the Zoning Code concerning storage facilities in business and agricultural districts.
  • Evidence: “And item number nine is the second reading of of Ordinance 2025-12, could you please read this? Ordinance amending chapters 1248 and 1252 of the Zoning Code of the City of Freeport concerning storage facilities in business and agricultural districts.”
  • Source timestamp: 44:50

• Ordinance 2025-11: Hanger Leases Approval

  • Summary: Second reading of Ordinance 2025-11, approving hanger leases for multiple individuals at the airport.
  • Evidence: “and item number 10 is the second reading of ordinance 2025 11 could you please read this ordinance approving hanger leases for a 1 Dennis Miller h1 Alexander blocker J Matt van Bergen l1 Ron Jansen l2 heritage aviation l3 Rob to campy doing business as tangle 34 l5 Paul Oda Bouda, L7, Pam Mannes, M1, John Eink, M3, Greg Manuel, M4, Ken and Paula Irwin, M8, David Hayes, and N10, John Staben.”
  • Source timestamp: 46:46

• First reading of Ordinance 2025-13

  • Summary: The first reading of Ordinance 2025-13, approving leases for E-1, Propwash, K-8, the Champ Club, New Lease, L-6, KCS, LLC, and M-6.
  • Attribution: Staff/Clerk
  • Evidence: “Item number 11 is the first reading of Ordinance 2025-13, could you please read this? This is the next batch of hangers that have come back in. This is an ordinance approving those, E-1, Propwash, K-8, the Champ Club, New Lease, so they’ve not previously been in K-8 before, L-6, KCS, LLC, KCS is also in L-8, M-6, David Slye, N1 Howard Norman, N9 Tim Mickle.”
  • Source timestamp: 48:40

• First reading of Ordinance 2025-14

  • Summary: The first reading of Ordinance 2025-14, adopting the official zoning map of the city of Freeport.
  • Attribution: Staff/Clerk
  • Evidence: “And item number 12 is the first reading of ordinance 2025-14. Could you please read this? Ordinance adopting the official zoning map of the city of Freeport.”
  • Source timestamp: 51:33

• Ordinance 2025-16: Acquisition of Real Property Interests along Fairgrounds Road for Well Number 12 — Approved

  • Summary: The ordinance approves the acquisition of real property interests, including land and easements, along Fairgrounds Road for well number 12.
  • Attribution: City Council
  • Evidence: “Seeing none, we’ll move on to item number 13, which is the first reading of ordinance 2025-16. Could you please read this? Ordinance approving the acquisition of real property interests, including land and easements, along Fairgrounds Road for well number 12.”
  • Source timestamp: 52:37

• Adoption of Resolution 2025-26 regarding Mississippi Centers for Supervision

  • Summary: Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding, or MLU, with Mississippi Centers for Supervision and a police social worker while obtaining masters of social work degree.
  • Evidence: “Item 14 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-26. Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding, or MLU, with Mississippi Centers for Supervision and a police social worker while obtaining masters of social work degree.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:00:13

• Adoption of Resolution 2025-27 regarding Fehr Graham services

  • Summary: Resolution approving an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide civil engineering services related to IDOT surface transportation program, Graham, Urban Portion, which is STU, STU Funded Street Improvements Program.
  • Evidence: “Item number 15 is the adoption of resolution 2025-27. Could you please read? Resolution approving an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide civil engineering services related to IDOT surface transportation program, Graham, Urban Portion, which is STU, STU Funded Street Improvements Program.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:04:03

• Emergency demolition of the structure located at 402 to 404 East Shawnee Street

  • Summary: Resolution ratifying emergency demolition of the structure located at 402 to 404 East Shawnee Street by Elbar and Sun Earthworks.
  • Evidence: “Item number 16 is the adoption of resolution 2025-28. Could you please read this? Resolution ratifying emergency demolition of the structure located at 402 to 404 East Shawnee Street by Elbar and Sun Earthworks.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:10:59

Financial and Contract Events

• Budget Request for Full Rehab Projects

  • Summary: The construction, hard and soft budget request is $850,000, which is at a maximum of $50,000 per home for a full rehab project type.
  • Evidence: “That’s at the maximum $50,000 per home for a full rehab project type. That would allow for project delivery, 15% of and another 48,875.”
  • Source timestamp: 19:46

• Total Grant Request Amount

  • Summary: The total grant request is $1,026,375.
  • Evidence: “totaling a total grant request at $1,026,375.”
  • Source timestamp: 19:57

• Agreement with Fehr Graham for engineering services

  • Summary: The total cost of the agreement is $218,150, which will prepare for utilization of funds in the 2026 construction season.
  • Evidence: “The total cost of the agreement is $218,150 and that will prepare us for utilization of these funds in the 2026 construction season.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:05:23

• Bids for demolition of 402-404-E Shawnee

  • Summary: Elburn Sun Earthworks bid was $19,700. Northern Illinois Service Company bid was $29,837. Fisher Excavating did not respond.
  • Attribution: Director Duckman
  • Evidence: “The bids are listed below and are provided to you and they were Elburn Sun Earthworks provided a bid in the amount of $19,700. Northern Illinois Service Company provided a bid for $29,837 and Fisher Excavating did not respond to the request for bid.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:12:03

Projects

• Identified FAU applicable routes for mill and overlay projects

  • Summary: The identified projects are Lincoln Boulevard from Locust to West, Stephenson Street from Locust to Sunset, Adams Avenue from Exchange to Float, and Walnut Avenue from Empire to South.
  • Evidence: “These are federal routes that we can use federal funding for. They are very particular about how work is done, and we’re trying to make a point of using these funds for mill and overlay projects. So those projects were identified as Lincoln Boulevard from Locust to West, Stephenson Street from Locust to Sunset, Adams Avenue from Exchange to Float, and Walnut Avenue from Empire to South.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:04:38

• List of proposed infrastructure projects

  • Summary: The identified list of projects includes Lincoln Boulevard from Locust to West, Stephenson Street from Locust to Sunset, Adams Avenue from Exchange to Float, and Walnut Avenue from Empire to South.
  • Evidence: “So those projects were identified as Lincoln Boulevard from Locust to West, Stephenson Street from Locust to Sunset, Adams Avenue from Exchange to Float, and Walnut Avenue from Empire to South. So that is the list of projects we’re hoping to do.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:04:50

Appointments

• Roger Scholz to Library Board
  • Summary: Appointment of Roger Scholz to the Library Board for a three-year term effective through May 31, 2028.
  • Evidence: “Appointment of Roger Scholz to the Library Board for a three-year term effective through May 31, 2028.”
  • Source timestamp: 43:45

Presentations and Reports

• Meeting Purpose Reminder

  • Summary: The Council was reminded that its role is to set the vision and direction for Freeport, while the City Manager’s role is to implement it.
  • Attribution: Mayor Miller
  • Evidence: “Before I officially call this meeting to order, I want to remind this Council that we have been elected to serve the residents of Freeport, not to push personal agendas or create unnecessary distractions. Our job is to focus on policy, infrastructure, economic development, and public safety. That is the purpose of these meetings. City Council’s role is to set the vision and the direction for Freeport. It is the City Manager’s role to implement that vision by directing our staff and allocating”
  • Source timestamp: 01:51

• Resolution to approve grant writing and implementation services for IHDA Home Repair and Accessibility Program

  • Summary: Presentation regarding resolution to approve grant writing and implementation services for the Illinois Housing Development Authority or IDA, home repair and accessibility program for up to $1.2 million.
  • Evidence: “Item number five is the presentation. Could you please read this for the record? Presentation regarding resolution to approve grant writing and implementation services for the Illinois Housing Development Authority or IDA, home repair and accessibility program for up to $1.2 million.”
  • Source timestamp: 08:58

• IDA Home Repair and Accessibility Grant Program details

  • Summary: The program is designed to assist low and very low income homeowners (less than or equal to 80% of the area median income). Applications are due March 14th at 3 PM. The current round offers $16 million in funding available, with a minimum request of $400,000 for the City of Freeport.
  • Attribution: Community Development Administrator with MSA Professional Services
  • Evidence: “I’m here with my colleague, Christina Tranel, who is a Community Development Specialist. We are here to provide the City Council with information regarding IDA’s Home Repair and Accessibility Grant Program. That is open now. So, some program basics. Applications are due. Applications are due March 14th of this year at 3 PM so I understand that is 10 to 11 days away the which I’ll call it a trap from here on out throughout the presentation for shortness sake the program is designed to assist low and very low income homeowners which is defined at less than or greater sorry less than or equal to 80% of the area median income the program will provide Huffines. This is round two of IDA’s Home Repair and Accessibility Grant Program. This current round is offering $16 million in funding available. The funding comes from the Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund, and applicants, so the City of Freeport, if they were to apply, they can request a minimum of $400,000.”
  • Source timestamp: 09:54

• Eligible project costs for IDA program

  • Summary: Eligible project costs include hard construction costs, soft construction costs (e.g., title searches, recording fees), project delivery activities (e.g., income verification, cost estimates), and administrative costs.
  • Attribution: Community Development Administrator with MSA Professional Services
  • Evidence: “For definition purposes, I’d just like to outline what the eligible project costs are, because we’ll talk about them in more detail. First being hard construction costs, your typical construction expenses, tangible brick and mortar type costs. There’s also soft construction costs, which examples include title searches, recording fees, termite or insect inspections. There’s also project delivery, which includes activities, intaking applications from participants in the program and homeowners, some income verification, cost estimates and work write-ups once inspectors get involved, as well as the inspections themselves and permit fees. And there’s also administrative costs that are grant eligible.”
  • Source timestamp: 11:36

• Recommendation for full rehab project application

  • Summary: It is recommended to request the full rehab project type instead of dividing it based on accessibility and roof only, as this allows for the most flexibility when administering the program.
  • Evidence: “I would recommend that you request the full rehab project type instead of divvying it out based on accessibility and roof only. This allows for the most flexibility when you’re actually administering the program.”
  • Source timestamp: 18:38

• Income calculation components for eligibility

  • Summary: Household income includes earned income (wages, salaries, overtime pay, commissions, fees, tips, and bonuses, and other compensation for personal services) and assets (checking/savings balances, CDs, stocks, home value, etc.), as well as unearned income (pensions, social security benefits). The calculator also considers adjustments and deductions like number of dependents, childcare, disability, elderly, and disabled.
  • Evidence: “It’s calculated for all household members over the age of 18. Income includes earned income. So the full amount before any payroll deductions of wages and salaries, overtime pay, commissions, fees, tips, and bonuses, and other compensation for personal services. It also includes assets, which is derived income such as checking and savings account balances, certificates of deposit, stocks, value of home, etc., as well as unearned income, so benefits including pensions, social security benefits. The income calculator also takes into consideration adjustments and deductions. So the number of dependents, childcare deductions, disability, elderly and disabled.”
  • Source timestamp: 24:47

• Program prioritization recommendation based on Area Median Income (AMI)

  • Summary: The speaker recommends prioritizing households or homeowners with a household income less than or equal to 50% of the area median income. If more than 17 participants are eligible at this threshold, the city would hold a lottery; otherwise, the income threshold could be bumped up to less than or equal to 80%.
  • Evidence: “If the city moves forward with the application, I would recommend to stay in line with IDA’s recommendations by prioritizing households or homeowners that have a household income of less than or equal to 50% of the area median income. This would not only ease the administrative burden and some of the administrative costs to process the number of applications when it’s open citywide, it would also prioritize the most in need homeowners and households. So what is 50% area median income? So Stephenson County, one person household is 28,500, two person household 32,600 and so on so forth. They’re highlighted on this table. Eight person household is $53,750. And again, people in the household are only people over 18. So then if we have, so say we’re doing 17 homes, we’re going to write the application and request 17 homes. However, if one of the homes is less than 50,000, we could always add to it. And this process allows for that to happen. So if more than 17 participants are eligible in this less than 50% threshold, the city would hold a lottery to determine the recipient of those funds. If less than 17 participants are eligible, we would then bump up the income threshold to less than or equal to 80%, which is viable or recommended by IDA.”
  • Source timestamp: 25:49

• Program timeline and preparation

  • Summary: The program information opened on February 5th, and the council waited until late in the previous week to discuss it seriously due to housing rehab efforts. The speaker noted that IDA gives a community six weeks to make a decision.
  • Evidence: “The program information, it opened up on February 5th. I got the information out to the city. We didn’t talk about it seriously until probably last week or the week before when we were talking about housing rehab efforts within the city.”
  • Source timestamp: 29:15

• Presentation timing and preparation effort

  • Summary: The speaker stated that they felt it would be better to present on March 3rd rather than earlier, ensuring they were prepared for potential questions.
  • Evidence: “We felt that it would be better to come better prepared March 3rd. We worked, you know, I know typically this council has a lot of questions, so we really wanted to make sure working on this presentation, we didn’t want to be hasty and not have answers.”
  • Source timestamp: 30:23

• Program cost and vendor recommendation

  • Summary: The program is estimated to cost $6,500 to pursue. The speaker recommended MSA as the third-party vendor because of prior work with the city on existing housing rehab programs.
  • Evidence: “So it’s going to cost us $6,500 to go after this money, but there’s no guarantee that Who’s the third-party vendor that’ll manage the program? Is that MSA? I would recommend it be MSA because we’ve worked with the city on existing housing rehab programs.”
  • Source timestamp: 30:53

• Applicability to new construction types

  • Summary: The speaker confirmed that the presentation could apply to new home builds, such as tiny homes or manufactured homes placed on empty lots.
  • Evidence: “So the way I understood your presentation that this could apply to new home builds Such as maybe, you know, maybe tiny homes or manufactured homes that are put on Empty lots in our community. Is that correct? That is correct.”
  • Source timestamp: 31:45

• Professional services agreements review status

  • Summary: It is typical practice for professional services agreements sent to clients that they have been reviewed at the MSA level and are ready to move forward once a decision is made and the contract is executed.
  • Evidence: “I also noticed that Brittany had already signed, the team leader had already signed. It’s typical practice for the professional services agreements we send to clients. That means it’s been reviewed at the MSA level and we’re ready to move forward once makes a decision and executes the contract.”
  • Source timestamp: 33:17

• IDA grant guidelines and process

  • Summary: The IDA uses its own calculator to determine income eligibility based on area median income. The process involves filling out a spreadsheet provided by IDA using given data; if the parameters are met, the applicant qualifies for the grant.
  • Evidence: “There’s different guidelines for IDA, which I thought you did an excellent job talking about how IDA has its own calculator right there, and you can go look at how they actually calculate what income is and that’s it. IDA sends a spreadsheet, there’s the link, they fill in the spreadsheet based on the data’s given to them and if they fall within the parameters of area median income, they qualify for the grant and that’s what IDA looks at, IDA reviews it”
  • Source timestamp: 34:00

• MSA Professional Services Grant Writing Proposal

  • Summary: The resolution involves moving forward with MSA for $6,500 to write a grant application for the IDA Home Repair and Accessibility Program.
  • Evidence: “So what this resolution is discussing is moving forward with MSA. We just saw their presentation. And it would be in the amount of $6,500 for them to write a grant application for the IDA Home Repair and Accessibility Program.”
  • Source timestamp: 39:49

• Ordinance 2025-12: Zoning Code Amendment for Storage Facilities

  • Summary: Recap of the ordinance proposing to only allow storage facilities in manufacturing districts, rather than currently allowing them in B3 and via special use permit in B2.
  • Attribution: Director Duckman
  • Evidence: “So essentially what is going on here is storage facilities were, currently they’re allowed and the B3 district, the agricultural district, and they are also allowed by a special use permit in the B2 zoning districts. So what this is proposing is to only allow storage facilities like a CubeSmart, for example, in the manufacturing districts.”
  • Source timestamp: 45:18

• Ordinance 2025-11: Hanger Leases Approval

  • Summary: Staff is following up on cleaning up the leases situation at the airport using a new lease format.
  • Attribution: Manager Boyer
  • Evidence: “Manager Boyer. Thank you, honor. Just following up, this is cleaning up the leases situation at the airport. We have the new lease format, which was approved by council, and these individuals were reviewed last council meeting and staff request moving forward with these leases”
  • Source timestamp: 47:30

• Second batch of leases for Ordinance 2025-13

  • Summary: Staff presented the second batch of leases coming through.
  • Attribution: Manager Boyer
  • Evidence: “Again we have been getting these in as rapidly as possible. This is the second batch that’s come through. Staff requests a suspension of the rules and approval of these leases.”
  • Source timestamp: 48:52

• Zoning Map Requirement

  • Summary: Director Duckman presented information regarding the state requirement for annual zoning map publication.
  • Evidence: “Thank you Madam Mayor. So the state of Illinois requires communities to publish annually their zoning maps and also to publish any or discuss if there was any zoning map and John.”
  • Source timestamp: 51:33

• Zoning Map Amendments for 2024

  • Summary: Staff reported that there were zero map amendments in the year of 2024.
  • Attribution: Staff
  • Evidence: “So with this being stated and with the zoning map in front of you, staff is recommending moving this ordinance forward for a second reading. We have a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
  • Source timestamp: 52:17

• Water System Upgrade and Property Acquisition for Well Number 12

  • Summary: Staff detailed the systematic upgrade of Freeport’s water system due to forever chemicals, noting the closure of the Brick Street plant and the development of new capacity at Burchard Hill. They are seeking funding for one more well and treatment plant to ensure redundant capacity.
  • Attribution: Manager Boyer
  • Evidence: “As you know, the City of Freeport’s water system has been systematically upgraded since we were first made aware of forever chemicals in in our main water plant source water at Brick Street. Since then, we have gone offline on the Brick Street plant, have been developing new source water and filtration capacity that has recently come to a conclusion on the Burchard plant at Burchard Hill. We have one more well and treatment plant that is necessary to ensure that we have redundant capacity in place.”
  • Source timestamp: 52:53

• Background on Police Social Worker Position

  • Summary: The police social worker resigned in October 2024. A new applicant was found who obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Applied Psychology and Criminal Law and Justice from University of Illinois Chicago in 2023, has over two years of employment in the social services field, is a member of the United States Army National Guard, and anticipates receiving her masters of social work in July, 2026. She started on February 10th, 2025.
  • Evidence: “In October of 2024, the police social worker at that time resigned his position with the Freeport Police Department to pursue a position with the U. S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Human Resources advertised for the open position of police social worker. After the initial posting, the police department received interest from one applicant that was prepared to offer employment to the applicant. And John. However, the applicant declined to accept a position with another agency. The open position was posted a second time and HR received interest from one applicant. The applicant is local and obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Applied Psychology and Criminal Law and Justice from University of Illinois Chicago in 2023. She also had over two years of employment in the social services field and is a member of the United States Army National Guard. The applicant anticipates receiving her masters of social work in July, 2026. The police social worker position was offered to this applicant and she started her role on February 10th, 2025.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:00:46

• Archaeological study requirement for drainage issues

  • Summary: A project in the Sioux Basin requires an archaeological study due to potential findings of arrowheads and Indian artifacts, as any project with federal funds is subject to this.
  • Evidence: “We’re working on some drainage issues over in the Sioux Basin, and we were just notified that we have to do an archaeological study to look for arrowheads and Indian findings because it came up on some reports. It’s a hot buzz item within the engineering world and again the seminar that we went to said any project that has one dollar of federal funds in it is going to retire those two options to be done moving forward.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:10:25

• Emergency Demolition of 402-404-E Shawnee

  • Summary: The property was declared a chronic nuisance on May 16th, 2024. A notice for Statutory Fast Track Demolition was posted on September 3rd, 2024. Bids were solicited on December 11th, 2024.
  • Attribution: Director Duckman
  • Evidence: “So we’re bringing this back up to council for approval. It is the Emergency Demolition of 402-404-E Shawnee. This property was declared a chronic nuisance on May 16th of 2024. The city posted a notice for the Statutory Fast Track Demolition on September 3rd of 2024. And then due to the immediate health and safety concerns, I solicited bids for the demolition of this property on December 11th, 2024 from three contractors.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:11:30

• Adoption of Resolution 2025-29: ComEd Street Light Upgrade Agreement

  • Summary: A presentation detailing the process and cost analysis for an agreement with ComEd to upgrade street lights in high crime areas.
  • Evidence: “And so, while we’re talking about it, I just don’t get how it is that you can vote for something that has a conflict of interest. You as as the mayor trying to break a conflict of interest I don’t see how you can do that okay then the conversation is done we’ll move on to item number 17 which is the adoption of resolution 2025-29 could you please read this resolution approving a customer work agreement with ComEd to upgrade street lights here”
  • Source timestamp: 01:26:33

• ComEd Light Replacement Scope and Cost

  • Summary: Authorization was given for 63 light replacements at a cost of $23,562.
  • Evidence: “I authorized an agreement for 63 light replacements at a cost of $23,562.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:27:56

• Estimated Monthly Cost Increase (ComEd)

  • Summary: The estimated increase in light cost is $5 a month to the rental and upkeep account Holt, and less than $3 a month per light in the electrical cost.
  • Evidence: “The estimated increase in light cost is $5 a month to the rental and upkeep account Holt, and less than $3 a month per light in the electrical cost.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:27:56

• LED Light Specifications

  • Summary: Each installed light will be 149-watt LED similar to the Cobrahead lights that are downtown.
  • Evidence: “Each one of the lights will be 149-watt LED similar to the Cobrahead lights that are downtown.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:28:28

• ComEd vs. Solar Lighting Cost Comparison (20 Years)

  • Summary: Over a 20 year period, ComEd lighting was estimated to cost $2,400 in rental and upkeep costs, while solar lights were estimated to cost $7,780.
  • Evidence: “So the breakout over So the breakout over a 20 year period, a ComEd 40 to 60 watt light, which is our standard that we have all over Freeport, cost the city about $2,400 in rental cost and in upkeep cost and lighting cost as well. So those lights have a $10 rental cost per month and about $5 in electricity per month to our what they call our tower account… So a 20 year comparison on a, and these were 80 watt lights is what the solar ones were, a 20 year cost on that is $7,780.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:29:38

• Solar Light Installation Cost Comparison

  • Summary: The upfront cost for 50 solar lights was $4,100, but buying five at a time increased the cost to $4,600.
  • Evidence: “If we buy 50 lights at a time, the cost of the lighting poles would be $4,100. If we don’t buy 50 at a time and let’s say we buy five at a time, the cost goes to $4,600.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:30:16

• Solar Light Component Lifespan and Replacement Cost

  • Summary: The batteries for solar lights are only good for 10 to 12 years max with a replacement cost of $700. The light itself is only good for 20 years with a replacement cost today of $200 a piece, and the photovoltaic cell is currently $200 a piece to replace.
  • Evidence: “The batteries that light solar lights are only good for 10 to 12 years max and they’re We’re a replacement cost of $700. The light itself is only good for 20 years and has a replacement cost today to $200 a piece. And the photo pail cell is currently $200 a piece to replace.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:30:56

• Current Lighting Cost Estimate (Freeport)

  • Summary: The current lights, regardless of location in Freeport, will cost $374 for installation and maintenance that replaces the light for life.
  • Evidence: “Huffines. Thank you. The current lights, no matter where we put them in the city of Freeport, right now in 2025, will cost $374. The installation is included in that price and the maintenance costs that we pay will replace that light for life.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:31:30

• Freeport Public Library Exhibit: Journey to Freedom

  • Summary: The Freeport Public Library is hosting an exhibit titled ‘Journey to Freedom,’ which covers the Underground Railroad in Illinois, featuring photos, videos, maps, and personal stories. The exhibit runs from March 6th through April 5th.
  • Attribution: Library
  • Evidence: “Library? I will take up all of their time. On Thursday we are going to have our opening house for our exhibit titled Journey to Freedom, the Underground Railroad exhibit. […] This exhibit is located on the second floor of the Freeport Public Library and is open to the public, experienced selected stories of freedom seekers, conductors, and communities in Illinois that were part of the journey to freedom on the Illinois Underground Railroad. […] Highlighted stories include freedom seekers John and Eliza Little, who traveled barefoot Huffines. This exhibit is open March 6th through April 5th for all Open Hours of the Library.”

• Refresh Freeport Cleanup Event Metrics

  • Summary: A recent ‘Refresh Freeport’ event collected over 25 tons of garbage and over 50 mattresses.
  • Attribution: City Manager
  • Evidence: “I think, Your Honor, just wanted to report another successful Refresh Freeport event where we collected over 25 tons of garbage and over 50 mattresses. So that’s work our crews no longer have to get done with and we thank everybody for participating.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:37:58

• 6th Ward Neighborhood Watch Meeting

  • Summary: The 6th Ward Neighborhood Watch is scheduled for this Thursday night at 6 PM at Schwartz Park Boulevard.
  • Attribution: Alderman Schaefer
  • Evidence: “Alderman Schaefer. I’d like to mention the 6th Ward Neighborhood Watch is this Thursday night at 6 PM at Schwartz Park Boulevard.”
  • Evidence: “I’d like to mention the 6th Ward Neighborhood Watch is this Thursday night at 6 PM at Schwartz Park Boulevard.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:38:25

• Citizens Utility Board Environmental Study Group meeting details

  • Summary: The Citizens Utility Board Environmental Study Group will meet on Thursday, March 6th, from 5:30 to 7:30 at the Freeport Public Library.
  • Attribution: Alderman Sanders
  • Evidence: “Kessler. It is Thursday, March 6th, 530 to 730 at the Freeport Public Library.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:38:56

• Neighborhood Watch reminder

  • Summary: A reminder about Neighborhood Watch later this month will be distributed to all constituents.
  • Attribution: Alderman Klemm
  • Evidence: “Alderman Klemm? Just a reminder of Neighborhood Watch later this month, I’ll get information out to all the constituents. Thank you very much.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:39:03

Metrics

• Water capacity from well
  • Summary: The well will feed 70 percent of the people in Freeport because it feeds the low zone which is our largest population of zone. It’s our business district, the down south, the east side.
  • Evidence: “I will also remind everyone this well in particular will feed 70 percent of the people in Freeport because it feeds the low zone which is our largest population of zone.”
  • Source timestamp: 59:35

Discussion

• Council Conduct Expectations

  • Summary: The Mayor encouraged council members to work together on department decisions instead of making personal attacks towards staff and leadership.
  • Attribution: Mayor Miller
  • Evidence: “And John. I would like to encourage all of us to work together to manage department decisions instead of trusting the professionals that we’ve hired to do their jobs. The antagonistic tone and the constant personal attacks towards staff and leadership are unacceptable. We need to remain professional, keep our discussions on topic, and conduct city business efficiently.”
  • Source timestamp: 02:23

• Soft construction costs examples

  • Summary: Examples of soft construction costs include title searches, recording fees, termite or insect inspections.
  • Evidence: “There’s also soft construction costs, which examples include title searches, recording fees, termite or insect inspections.”
  • Source timestamp: 11:44

• Project delivery components

  • Summary: Project delivery includes activities such as intaking applications from participants in the program and homeowners, some income verification, cost estimates and work write-ups once inspectors get involved, as well as the inspections themselves and permit fees.
  • Evidence: “There’s also project delivery, which includes activities, intaking applications from participants in the program and homeowners, some income verification, cost estimates and work write-ups once inspectors get involved, as well as the inspections themselves and permit fees.”
  • Source timestamp: 11:54

• Administrative costs eligibility

  • Summary: Administrative costs that are grant eligible include general management, oversight, project management, coordination, grant reporting, overhead costs.
  • Evidence: “And there’s also administrative costs that are grant eligible. And this includes general management, oversight, project management, coordination, grant reporting, overhead costs.”
  • Source timestamp: 12:11

• Program types and funding limits (Full Rehab/Accessibility)

  • Summary: Under full rehab and accessibility, homeowners may receive up to $50,000 from the HREP funds to cover hard and soft construction. They can also get project delivery costs per home, not exceeding 15% of the construction costs.
  • Evidence: “Under full rehab and accessibility, homeowners may receive up to $50,000 from the HREP funds to cover hard and soft construction. They also can get project delivery costs per home, not exceeding 15% of the construction costs.”
  • Source timestamp: 12:39

• Full Rehab/Accessibility loan terms

  • Summary: The assistance for full rehab and accessibility is provided as a five-year forgivable loan, forgiven at 1.60th per month over the loan period.
  • Evidence: “This assistance is provided to homeowners in the form of a five-year forgivable loan, which is forgiven at 1.60th per month over the loan period.”
  • Source timestamp: 13:08

• Roof only option funding and terms

  • Summary: For a roof only option, homeowners can receive up to $25,000 for the roof, with project delivery at 15%. The assistance is given as a form of a three-year forgivable loan, making the maximum grant request for the city $28,750 per home.
  • Evidence: “These homeowners can receive up to 25,000 for the roof. Again, project delivery is at 15%. So, and the assistance for a roof only option is given as a form of a three-year forgivable loan. So the maximum grant request for the city for the roof only option would be $28,750 per home.”
  • Source timestamp: 13:31

• Property eligibility requirements

  • Summary: To participate with funds, the property must be the sole residence of all homeowners on the deed, current on the mortgage, and its value must not exceed the IDA established limit for Stephenson County, which is 209,000. The title must also be clear of mechanics liens and tax liens.
  • Evidence: “So what makes a property within the city eligible to participate with these funds? The property must be the sole residence of all homeowners on the deed. The property must be current on the mortgage. The property value must not exceed the property value limit which is established by IDA and for Stephenson County, it’s 209,000. The property must be held in fee simple title, meaning no contract for deed and no ownership held in trust. The title must also be clear of mechanics liens and tax liens.”
  • Source timestamp: 13:54

• Property ineligibility criteria

  • Summary: Properties are ineligible if taxes have been sold to a tax buyer, or if they have open foreclosure Miller, or Foreclosure cases.
  • Evidence: “A property is ineligible if taxes have been sold to a tax buyer and properties with open foreclosure Miller, or Foreclosure cases are also ineligible.”
  • Source timestamp: 14:27

• Property occupancy requirements

  • Summary: The property must be able to record the item mortgage on the property, and it must be owner, occupied, and single-family residents.
  • Evidence: “The property must be able to record the item mortgage on the property, and it also must be owner, occupied, and single-family residents.”
  • Source timestamp: 14:43

• Ineligible property types

  • Summary: Ineligible property types include reverse mortgages, investment properties, ownership in a trust or contract for deed situation, properties primarily used for business (meaning 50% or more of the floor space within the residence is used for business), and IDA mortgage if it is not the first or second position lien.
  • Evidence: “What are some ineligible property types? No reverse mortgages, no investment properties, again, no ownership in a trust or contract for deed situation, no properties that are primarily used for business, meaning that We’ve got 50% or more of the floor space within the residence is used for business. And then also the IDA mortgage, so this five-year or three-year forgivable loan must be the first or the second position lien on the property.”
  • Source timestamp: 14:56

• Loan repayment terms

  • Summary: The homeowner does not have to pay back the loan at any period unless they sell the house or the ownership is transferred, in which case the balance will be due out at the net proceeds.
  • Evidence: “So what does this forgivable loan look like to the homeowner? The homeowner does not have to pay back the loan at any period unless they sell the house or the ownership is transferred. So the loan balance will be due out at the net proceeds upon sale or transfer of the property if such an event occurs within that five-year or three-year time frame.”
  • Source timestamp: 15:53

• Loan security and documentation

  • Summary: Loans will be secured by a mortgage recorded against the property, requiring all homeowners to sign a forgivable five-year or three-year promissory Rennow with IDA.
  • Evidence: “And then loans will be secured by a mortgage recorded against the property. So all homeowners will be required to sign a forgivable five-year or three-year promissory Rennow, based on the project type and construction costs with IDA.”
  • Source timestamp: 16:23

• IDA application scoring criteria (Team Capacity)

  • Summary: IDA scores applications based on organization and team capacity, which includes the City of Freeport’s previous management and team experience with housing rehabilitation type programs.
  • Evidence: “They will score it based on organization and team capacity. So that would include the City of Freeport’s previous management and team experience with housing rehabilitation type programs.”
  • Source timestamp: 16:58

• IDA application scoring criteria (Budget)

  • Summary: The program is scored on the city’s work plan and budget and cost control, ensuring it is cost effective and has a reasonable budget.
  • Evidence: “It’s also scored on the city’s work plan and budget and cost control, just ensuring that your program is cost effective and you have a reasonable budget.”
  • Source timestamp: 17:28

• IDA application scoring criteria (Need)

  • Summary: The third criterion is program need, impact, and demand, requiring evidence supporting the need and demand through data analysis, letters of support, and community input.
  • Evidence: “Third criteria is program need, impact, and demand. So the application needs to provide evidence supporting the need and the demand for the program, including data analysis, letters of support, and evidence of community input.”
  • Source timestamp: 17:56

• IDA application scoring criteria (Readiness)

  • Summary: The final criterion is readiness to proceed, assessing how quickly the city can mobilize and administer the program if funding is granted.
  • Evidence: “And then lastly, readiness to proceed. If IDA were to turn around and say, yep, here’s your money, how quickly can you mobilize and hit the ground running and administer your program?”
  • Source timestamp: 18:11

• Rehab Project Application Scope Recommendation

  • Summary: Recommendation to request the full rehab project type instead of dividing it by accessibility and roof only for maximum flexibility.
  • Evidence: “I would recommend that you request the full rehab project type instead of divvying it out based on accessibility and roof only. This allows for the most flexibility when you’re actually administering the program.”
  • Source timestamp: 18:38

• Feasible Number of Rehab Projects

  • Summary: The city would be able to feasibly complete 17 homes in two years.
  • Evidence: “The one that will feasibly get done in two years would be 17 homes.”
  • Source timestamp: 19:35

• Participant Selection Process Overview

  • Summary: The city receives the grant and contracts with a third-party vendor to develop a participant selection plan, which must be reviewed by IDA.
  • Evidence: “So the grant is awarded to the city. The city can then contract with the third party vendor to administer the program. That’s when the third party administrator would work with the city to develop a participant selection plan.”
  • Source timestamp: 20:20

• Participant Selection Plan Submission and Marketing

  • Summary: After developing the plan, it is sent to IDA for review; upon approval, the city can market the program.
  • Evidence: “Once we develop our participant selection plan it’s sent to IDA for review to ensure that it complies with regulations. We then, once they approve that, we can market the program to the public, develop an interested participant list.”
  • Source timestamp: 20:20

• Participant Selection Order of Operations

  • Summary: Homeowners contacting the city are placed on a first come first serve basis in order of correspondence.
  • Evidence: “However, the city decides to market the program, they would be put on a list on a first come first serve basis in order of correspondence.”
  • Source timestamp: 21:43

• Pre-Application Form Submission and Interview Scheduling

  • Summary: The administrator collects pre-application forms (income estimate, household size, mortgage status), followed by scheduling interviews to determine eligibility.
  • Evidence: “Once the pre-application forms are in, we then can begin scheduling interviews and that’s when eligibility will really become important or will determine homeowner eligibility.”
  • Source timestamp: 22:08

• IDA Interview Contact Protocol

  • Summary: IDA requires three calls or emails within 48 hours to the intended participant list; failure to respond leads to a certified letter, and removal after 10 days of no response.
  • Evidence: “They would involve three calls or emails within 48 hours in the order that you have in your intended participant list. If no response within that 48 hours, you would send a certified letter in the mail. After 10 days and still no response, you would then remove that participant from the interested participant list”
  • Source timestamp: 22:21

• Home Inspection Importance for Funding Feasibility

  • Summary: The home inspection is important because if a home requires more than $50,000 to meet code violations and public health/safety standards, it may not be feasible with the available funds.
  • Evidence: “So the home inspection would be important simply because if a home needs a lot more than fifty thousand dollars to bring it up to code it’s just not a feasible project for these funds.”
  • Source timestamp: 23:14

• Income Calculation Finalization

  • Summary: After income calculations are completed and reviewed by IDA, the city ranks participants to determine eligibility and proceed with administration.
  • Evidence: “Once the income calculations are approved by IDA, the city would then take them and rank them determining participant eligibility and then moving forward with program administration.”
  • Source timestamp: 23:14

• Amendment of Participant Selection Plan

  • Summary: The participant selection plan can be amended later if necessary, provided it does not jeopardize fairness and receives IDA approval.
  • Evidence: “A note at the bottom, once the city does submit their participant selection plan, it can be amended. So say this is our plan, we’re doing this and and something isn’t working any longer, something that’s not going to jeopardize the fairness of the participant selection, but maybe something in the process that needs to change, we can always amend it with IDA approval.”
  • Source timestamp: 23:14

• IDA Income Calculation Components

  • Summary: Income is calculated for all household members over 18 and includes earned income (wages, salary, overtime, etc.), assets (checking/savings balances, CDs, stocks, home value), and unearned income (pensions, Social Security).
  • Evidence: “It’s calculated for all household members over the age of 18. Income includes earned income. So the full amount before any payroll deductions of wages and salaries, overtime pay, commissions, fees, tips, and bonuses, and other compensation for personal services. It also includes assets, which is derived income such as checking and savings account balances, certificates of deposit, stocks, value of home, etc., as well as unearned income, so benefits including pensions, social security benefits.”
  • Source timestamp: 24:35

• Income Calculation Deductions Considered by IDA

  • Summary: The income calculator also considers adjustments and deductions such as the number of dependents, childcare deductions, disability, elderly, and disabled status.
  • Evidence: “The income calculator also takes into consideration adjustments and deductions. So the number of dependents, childcare deductions, disability, elderly and disabled.”
  • Source timestamp: 25:19

• Flood zone/floodway spending limitations

  • Summary: A question was raised regarding whether any money could be spent in a flood zone or a flood way.
  • Evidence: “Can any of the money be spent in the flood zone or a flood way? In a flood way? Flood way or a flood zone?”
  • Source timestamp: 27:39

• Property ownership requirement for program eligibility

  • Summary: A question was asked to confirm if the program is only for owner-occupied properties, not landlords.
  • Evidence: “another question I had is this for only owner occupied properties not landlords correct”
  • Source timestamp: 28:25

• Minimum property value threshold for qualification

  • Summary: A question was posed regarding whether a house valued at $10,000 or $50,000 would fail to qualify if they could not be brought up to code.
  • Evidence: “and let’s pretend that a house has a value of only ten thousand dollars and fifty thousand dollars won’t bring it up to code they will not end up qualifying for the program correct”
  • Source timestamp: 28:25

• New home property value threshold

  • Summary: The speaker confirmed there is a new home property value Threshold, which is more than two hundred thousand.
  • Evidence: “There is a new home property value Threshold as well. The existing home was two hundred nine thousand and there is a new home number. I believe it’s It’s more than two hundred thousand.”
  • Source timestamp: 31:45

• Home inspection authorization process

  • Summary: A question was asked about who is authorized to do the home inspections—if an individual gets their own inspector or if the city handles it.
  • Evidence: “Who’s authorized to do the home inspections? Does the person go out and get their own home inspector? Does the city?”
  • Source timestamp: 32:21

• New home property value Threshold for builds

  • Summary: Discussion regarding a new home property value threshold, noting that the existing home was two hundred nine thousand and the new home is believed to be more than two hundred thousand.
  • Evidence: “The existing home was two hundred nine thousand and there is a new home number. I believe it’s It’s more than two hundred thousand.”
  • Source timestamp: 31:45

• Home inspection authorization for builds

  • Summary: Discussion on who is authorized to conduct home inspections, with confirmation that contracting with a third party grant administrator like MSA would involve sub-consulting with a lead certified housing inspector.
  • Evidence: “Who’s authorized to do the home inspections? Does the person go out and get their own home inspector? Does the city? How do we do that? So when you do contract with a third party grant administrator such as MSA, we would sub-consult with a lead certified housing inspector.”
  • Source timestamp: 32:21

• Purpose of property purchase for council consideration

  • Summary: A question was raised regarding whether the city’s interest in purchasing a specific property relates to infill housing or commercial development, as opposed to its initial purpose.
  • Evidence: “Yes. Does this have anything to do with why the city wanted to purchase that property that was brought to the council last meeting? City Manager Boyer? Not specifically. I don’t understand that answer. Well, if it can be used for something like this, I don’t, you know, infill housing, that and Denney. They would be great for it. But that wasn’t specifically what we were getting it for. It was either infill housing or some commercial property development.”
  • Source timestamp: 32:37

• Scope and purpose of the current grant opportunity

  • Summary: The grant opportunity is intended to provide help to low-income people who live in their homes, noting that MSA and TARA approached the speaker about it.
  • Evidence: “There’s no, you know, MSA and TARA approached me about this grant opportunity and it’s really to bring help to people that are in need. They live in their homes, they’re low income and you know, no government program’s perfect but they’ve been doing this for a long time and they have a standardized form and it’s really just meant to get people in the most need, the help that they can.”
  • Source timestamp: 34:38

• Funding goals and community need assessment

  • Summary: Discussion on requesting up to one million dollars for funds, acknowledging that the amount received might be less (e.g., $400,000), but emphasizing the community’s expressed need.
  • Evidence: “Time. The need is going to extend past what is available. You know, we’re going to request up to a million dollars. We may not get up to a million dollars. You might only get 400,000, but should we stop? Should we quit? I mean, somebody is going to need these funds. We just had a community member up here, Wendy Slayton. She’s telling you that the community is telling you we need help.”
  • Source timestamp: 35:06

• Responsibility for pursuing multiple grants

  • Summary: A discussion occurred regarding whether an individual should pursue additional grant opportunities or if they should limit themselves due to perceived responsibility limits from a previous grant.
  • Evidence: “Director Duckman, you were the first person pertaining to that other grant that said you would never go after another grant because you don’t want the responsibility. You didn’t want the responsibility of the last one. That’s why it fell in others’ hands. I deny it, saying it that. Of course you would.”
  • Source timestamp: 35:42

• IDA guidelines and grant suitability for community

  • Summary: The speaker reiterated belief in the IDA guidelines while acknowledging council concerns about potential unfair practices with the grant program.
  • Evidence: “Well, I mean, it’s pretty clear what the IDA guidelines are. And I’m trying to bring an opportunity to help the community. And if honestly and I’m not I’m being very respectful here and saying it if if this council thinks that IDA has unfair practices maybe it’s just not the right grant for our community if that’s what you’re saying I mean if you if you feel that way I’m being very honest but I’m telling you that I believe in my role is to bring as much aid as I can to the community and I think this is a good program and I think it could help”
  • Source timestamp: 36:21

• Timeline for grant application process

  • Summary: The current discussion pertains only to writing the grant application, which involves a cost of $6,500 to retain MSA. The subsequent steps include IDA review and determination.
  • Evidence: “All this being talked about today is to write the grant. It’s writing the grant application. Yeah, I just want to say I do really like the program, and I think I agree with you, Wayne. So many people out there that is really looking for help to get their roofs done, their windows done, doors done, whatever they can get done to their house.”
  • Source timestamp: 37:34

• Availability of alternative grants

  • Summary: The speaker suggested the need to investigate other available grants that could assist people in the community, noting that some grants cover areas across the entire city of Freeport.
  • Evidence: “I also think that you know we got to look at if there’s grants out there that we can go after and help That’s what we’re supposed to be doing. I guess that’s what his department is supposed to be doing so I do think that is something that we need to Go after and help people in our community because it goes all over the city of Freeport, correct? So anybody that other grant just went for a certain area this can go anywhere so anybody can get help”
  • Source timestamp: 37:57

• Contingency planning for grant participants

  • Summary: A question was raised about whether there are extra grants or plans in place if intended participants do not respond after being contacted via letters, phone calls, or emails.
  • Evidence: “Are there extra grants selected in case somebody falls out from not being able to be, well, it was listed more so as sending them out a letter or three phone calls or three emails or something like that We would have a list our intended participant list that would likely have a lot more folks than we need to reach out to so once you know once we don’t get we go through the appropriate processes and don’t get a response for somebody we just move on down to the next one”
  • Source timestamp: 38:18

• Participant list management for grants

  • Summary: The process involves having a master participant list and moving to the next person if there is no response.
  • Evidence: “We would have a list our intended participant list that would likely have a lot more folks than we need to reach out to so once you know once we don’t get we go through the appropriate processes and don’t get a response for somebody we just move on down to the next one”
  • Source timestamp: 38:18

• Rationale for Ordinance 2025-12 Zoning Change

  • Summary: The ordinance is driven by several expansions in the past year, a large increase in retail areas, and anticipation of continued growth that could take over areas needing more retail variety.
  • Attribution: Director Duckman
  • Evidence: “What has spurred this is, we’ve had several expansions in the past year, several self storage facilities. We’ve seen a large increase in our retail areas and we anticipate that it could potentially grow and continue to grow and take over areas where we really could use some more variety in our retail.”
  • Source timestamp: 45:45

• Hanger Lease Clarification (Rob Tecumple)

  • Summary: Discussion regarding hanger L3 Rob Tecumple, noting that the initial documentation incorrectly suggested two hangers when he moved to a different hanger which is now designated as L3.
  • Attribution: Alderman Stacey
  • Evidence: “Alderman Stacey yes hanger l3 Rob Tecumple and then it says tango 34 LLC different hanger so this is two hangers when we sent the leases out, his came back in a different hanger, so it’s not two hangers, he just was previously not an L3, he’s moved to a different hanger, which is L3.”
  • Source timestamp: 47:37

• New lease format review

  • Summary: Discussion regarding the new lease format approved by council and specific leases reviewed.
  • Attribution: Alderman Stacy
  • Evidence: “We have the new lease format, which was approved by council, and these individuals were reviewed last council meeting and staff request moving forward with these leases there any discussion on these particular leases Alderman Stacey yes hanger l3 Rob Tecumple and then it says tango 34 LLC different hanger so this is two hangers when we sent the leases out, his came back in a different hanger, so it’s not two hangers, he just was previously not an L3, he’s moved to a different hanger, which is L3. Any other discussion?”
  • Source timestamp: 47:37

• Outstanding leases count

  • Summary: Discussion regarding the number of outstanding leases after processing this batch.
  • Attribution: Alderman Monroe
  • Evidence: “Alderman Monroe. Thank you Madam Mayor. This is How many of these are still outstanding after this batch goes through? I mailed out 50. Madam Clerk? I mailed out 50. So I haven’t done a count, but this isn’t half. No. Thank you.”
  • Source timestamp: 49:26

• Lease listing discrepancy

  • Summary: Discussion on why some hangers list the holder’s name and others list a business.
  • Attribution: Alderman Stacy
  • Evidence: “Why do some hangers have the holder’s name and some have the listed business? Why if if they have a business aren’t, isn’t the business listed? Alderman Stacy, my guess is that these are private airplane, you know, pleasure aircraft, where the other ones are listed under a business. Dovie, did you have something else? Yeah, if they provide a business name, it’s listed. If they don’t provide a business name, then they’re leased under the individual’s name.”
  • Source timestamp: 50:01

• Cost and Acreage for Well Number 12 Property

  • Summary: Discussion covered the cost estimate of $22,000 per acre, the final acreage needed (seven acres), and comparisons to other negotiated properties.
  • Evidence: “Alderman Stacey. Yes I would like to know how much is this gonna cost us. Manager Boyer? Approximately $22,000 an acre. Baker, 22,000 an acre correct yes and that includes the earnest money as well and how many acres are we looking at so we originally asked for ten but we were able to get the work done that we needed for seven so we renegotiated with the owner and and seven was all we need any other discussion yes one more let me see If anybody else has, because you’ve already used your two.”
  • Source timestamp: 56:37

• Property suitability for Freeport growth

  • Summary: The property is desirable because it does not flood and has permanent water sources that filter through ground layers, which is beneficial for future expansion.
  • Evidence: “So it’s one of the areas of Freeport that doesn’t flood, right? So we want to get just like Wellhouse 11, we need to place this in somewhere that’s not low ground. The attributes to the Yellow Creek, one of the reasons that we like that is the water source is permanent and it filters through the ground layers.”
  • Source timestamp: 58:38

• Supervision requirement for Police Social Worker

  • Summary: The Freeport Police Department reached out to Mississippi Centers to have a licensed clinical social worker supervise the new police social worker on a weekly basis until she obtains her masters of social work in July of 2026. This supervision is noted as standard practice.
  • Evidence: “The Freeport Police Department reached out to Mississippi Centers to have a licensed clinical social worker supervise the new police social worker on a weekly basis until she obtains her masters of social work in July of 2026. In 2022, the Freeport Police Department hired and the police social worker under similar circumstances who also required supervision from an LCSW until she received her certification.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:01:49

• Supervision definition and necessity

  • Summary: Professional supervision is defined as the relationship between a supervisor and a supervisee where responsibility for competence, demeanor, and ethical practice occurs. The MOU includes one two-hour session per week at no cost.
  • Evidence: “Professional supervision is defined as the relationship between a supervisor and a supervisee in which the responsibility and accountability for the development of competence, demeanor, and ethical practice take place. The supervisor is responsible for providing direction to the supervisee who applies social work theory, standardized knowledge, skills, competency, and applicable ethical content in the practice setting. The supervisor and the supervisee both share responsibility for carrying out their role in this collaborative process. This MOU with Mississippi centers includes one two-hour session per week at no cost.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:02:42

• Potential charges for supervision time

  • Summary: Any time spent by Mississippi over two hours a week could be subject to a charge of $40 an hour.
  • Evidence: “Suttman. Any time spent by Mississippi over two hours a week could be subject to a charge of $40 an hour. However, it’s not anticipated that this will be necessary.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:03:16

• Design planning timeline for infrastructure projects

  • Summary: The council wishes to move forward with design despite construction not beginning until 2026, due to required environmental studies.
  • Evidence: “However, because we have to do an environmental study, we’d like to move forward with design on this, even though construction won’t begin until 2026.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:05:04

• Funding source and deployment timeline

  • Summary: The funds are from IDOT and require a specific dispersal method; while hoped for this year, the environmental study makes deployment likely in 2026.
  • Evidence: “Okay, this is a grant that will pay $2.5 million. It is not per se in a grant. This is funds that are dispersed through IDOT, but they have to be dispersed in a specific way with a very high level of parameters. So unfortunately, we were hoping to deploy these funds this year, but because of the environmental study that needs to be done, I think it’s an or 9 month process, so these will end up being deployed in 26, but we still need to get the work done now so we can deploy these funds in 26.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:05:41

• Contract scope clarification (Public Works Director vs. Master Service Agreement)

  • Summary: The Public Works Director contract handles day-to-day management, while the Master Service Agreement is for smaller projects; standalone contracts are preferred for large, federally funded projects.
  • Evidence: “Those are different projects. So the public works director, I believe that’s what you’re referring to, that is dealing with the day-to-day management and working with the superintendents and the employees day-to-day. This is actually design and preparation for the STU funds to be deployed next year. It’s just a completely different thing.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:07:05

• Contract structure preference for federal funding

  • Summary: For federally funded projects (IDOT or EPA), standalone contracts are preferred over adding costs to the master service agreement because it provides better transparency.
  • Evidence: “If we could add this money on to the master service agreement, but when it comes to IDOT or EPA or anything that’s federally funded, has money in it, Fowler, and they like to see stand-alone contracts for just that project alone.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:07:40

• Project budgeting status

  • Summary: The current proposal was not budgeted for because the availability of the $2.5 million funding was unknown when budgets were created.
  • Evidence: “I would say this project was not budgeted for like it is shown today, because we didn’t We didn’t know that we were going to be able to get this money when we did budgets, right?”
  • Source timestamp: 01:09:07

• Environmental study requirements (Federal funding)

  • Summary: Any project receiving federal funds requires an environmental study, which is a process pushed down by the federal government and can involve expensive archaeological studies.
  • Evidence: “It’s being pushed down from the federal government. We went to a seminar about it, but anything that has a dollar of federal money tied to it anymore is going to end up and John. It’s something that the government is pushing down through all their agencies. That and archaeological studies are the new buzzwords, and unfortunately, they’re very expensive to do.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:09:53

• Emergency nature of demolition at 402-404-E Shawnee

  • Summary: The emergency was characterized by two confirmed arson calls on the property, posing a fire hazard, and repeated reports of break-ins.
  • Attribution: Alderman Stacey
  • Evidence: “But I think the biggest emergency here when we talk about public safety is our fire department had two arson calls on this property, confirmed arson calls from our fire marshal. It’s a very serious matter. When we’re talking about the safety of our community, we also know that the property did and I have insurance. So when you have a fire hazard that had two incidents of arson on it, and then since I’ve been in this position, I’ve been called several times on that property from the community saying, hey, somebody’s been in the property, somebody’s breaking in.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:12:55

• Timing of council involvement for demolition at 402-404-E Shawnee

  • Summary: Question regarding why the city did not come to council before the demolition, despite multiple dates mentioned.
  • Evidence: “But you stated it multiple times. But here we are May, August, September, October, December, and you never once thought of coming to council like you do with every other demo. Why didn’t that occur?”
  • Source timestamp: 01:14:18

• City ownership status for demolition at 402-404-E Shawnee

  • Summary: Clarification that the city does not own the property, and fast-track demolition is used when a property owner fails to address it as a nuisance.
  • Attribution: Director Duckman
  • Evidence: “The city does not own this property and a fast-track demolition the city does not own a property a fast-track demolition that’s why you post notice to the property owners saying hey you’ve left this property vacant you’ve left it abandoned and you left it as a nuisance to the proper to this community and if you don’t fix it or demolish it yourself the city is going to because it’s a nuisance and a threat to the community”
  • Source timestamp: 01:16:07

• Demolition process and property ownership

  • Summary: The city does not own the property; demolition notices are sent to owners for vacant or abandoned properties that become a nuisance.
  • Evidence: “The city does not own this property and a fast-track demolition the city does not own a property a fast-track demolition that’s why you post notice to the property owners saying hey you’ve left this property vacant you’ve left it abandoned and you left it as a nuisance to the proper to this community and if you don’t fix it or demolish it yourself the city is going to because it’s a nuisance and a threat to the community and that’s exactly what we told the property owner and we told it to multiple property owners this is not the”
  • Source timestamp: 01:16:07

• Payment for demolition work

  • Summary: Confirmation that payment is specifically for the demolition of the property.
  • Evidence: “I just want some clarification on, is this to just pay Albert and Sons for the work is done because the house is gone? So we can’t change that. So this is to pay them for demoing the property? This is 100% correct. This is to pay them for the demolition of the property, yes.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:16:39

• Type of demolition (Fast-track vs Emergency)

  • Summary: The process involved both fast-track and emergency measures.
  • Evidence: “So, was this a fast track demo or was it an emergency demo? Both. Because we’ve never heard emergency until now. You’ve always just said fast track.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:17:08

• Past actions regarding fire threats

  • Summary: The speaker stated they have taken action on multiple occasions due to fire threats, including a board-up of a hotel in January.
  • Evidence: “And when I actually brought up in January an emergency board up of the hotel which also had a threat of a fire in January. So, whenever there’s a threat of fire to I’m going to stand behind a demolition as fast as I can or a board up as fast as I can as long as there if there is a threat of fire in this community I’m going to stand behind the quickest action I can possible to protect this community from a fire threat. So I did it in January for the hotel.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:17:20

• Property owner opportunity to fix property

  • Summary: The property owner was given an opportunity to fix the issue but took no action.
  • Evidence: “So if it was such a big hazardous to the community, we’re in 24. Miller. I gave, I gave the property owner the opportunity to fix it. And they did nothing.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:18:25

• Defense of professional actions and decisions

  • Summary: The speaker stated they stand behind their work and decisions regarding demolition, even if disciplinary action is taken.
  • Evidence: “I will say it again, if any council member would like to go to City Manager Boyer and do an investigation into how I work, I stand behind my work, and I always will. And if the way I operate is looked at as being deceitful, dishonest, inappropriate, etc., I stand behind that.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:18:58

• Examples of emergency actions taken

  • Summary: The speaker stated they have conducted two emergency actions related to fire since sitting in their seat.
  • Evidence: “Many, many fast track demolitions, yes. This is the one emergency demolition that I can speak of. I said I did another emergency action of a board up of a hotel in January. So I’ve done two emergency actions since I’ve sat in this seat, both related to fire.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:20:18

• Mayor’s right to vote despite conflict concern

  • Summary: A council member questioned the basis for disqualification, asserting the right to vote.
  • Evidence: “I’m not a city employee, I’m an elected official, and I believe at the last one you actually abstained, but what would have been your reason? I don’t even think you said it. So if I choose to vote, I believe that’s my right.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:22:39

• Definition of family member in conflict of interest

  • Summary: A request was made for the definition of a family member.
  • Evidence: “Adam Clark? Can we have the definition of a family member?”
  • Source timestamp: 01:22:39

• Conflict of Interest and Voting Procedures

  • Summary: Discussion regarding a member’s personal interest potentially violating state and local ordinances during a vote.
  • Evidence: “She’s engaging in a decision where a member has a personal interest that can lead to a violation of state and local ordinances, potentially resulting in legal consequences for the individual and the city.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:24:10

• Right to Abstain from Voting

  • Summary: A discussion confirming an elected official’s right to abstain but noting they are not obligated to do so.
  • Evidence: “Alderman Rowe, I guess my response would be to that is just as with any elected official, someone feels they should abstain they have the right to abstain but you’re not obligated to abstain if you don’t want to I’m very I’m not obligated so my vote stands”
  • Source timestamp: 01:24:27

• Project Bidding Process

  • Summary: A statement asserting that a specific project was posted to the community for bidding, meaning anyone could bid on it.
  • Evidence: “Alderman Klemm I just like to I just like to bring up the fact that this project was posted to the community for bidding anybody could bid it”
  • Source timestamp: 01:24:27

• Procedural Objection and Conflict of Interest

  • Summary: A member objected to a vote, arguing that if there is a conflict of interest, the council should have an opportunity to investigate.
  • Evidence: “Yeah, you should be repealed because if there is a conflict of interest and the council have an interest in wanting to investigate it, then we should have that opportunity to do so.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:26:21

• Solar Lighting Costs and Comparison

  • Summary: The batteries for solar lights last 10 to 12 years with a replacement cost of $700; the light itself lasts 20 years with a replacement cost today of $200 per piece; the photo pail cell is currently $200 per piece and is estimated to last about 30 years.
  • Evidence: “The batteries that light solar lights are only good for 10 to 12 years max and they’re We’re a replacement cost of $700. The light itself is only good for 20 years and has a replacement cost today to $200 a piece. And the photo pail cell is currently $200 a piece to replace. And they’re estimated to last for about 30 years. So upfront cost wise and the 10 and 20 year comparison, there really wasn’t any comparison.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:30:56

• Current City Lighting Costs in Freeport

  • Summary: The current lights in the city of Freeport, as of 2025, will cost $374, which includes installation and maintenance costs that replace the light for life, resulting in no future cost other than monthly maintenance.
  • Evidence: “Now, if we have subdivisions Huffines. Thank you. The current lights, no matter where we put them in the city of Freeport, right now in 2025, will cost $374. The installation is included in that price and the maintenance costs that we pay will replace that light for life. So there will be no future cost other than the maintenance that we pay monthly.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:31:30

• Lighting Effectiveness and Brightness

  • Summary: A question was raised regarding the effectiveness and brightness of the proposed lights, specifically if they are LED type and if the lumens will be at the highest peak achievable for the price.
  • Evidence: “Are we talking about the installation of these lights and everything. But are there going to be, Are we able to get the effectiveness and the brightness from these lights? Are we talking LED type lights and the looms are going to be at the highest peak of the looms that we can receive from these lightings that we’re purchasing of that price?”
  • Source timestamp: 01:32:26

• Light Brightness Details

  • Summary: The available light is a 149 watt light in the Cobra Head style, with the widest or strongest lumens being 18,000 lumens. The speaker noted that anything more than this would be disruptive to residents’ properties.
  • Evidence: “Yeah, so 149 watt light in the Cobra Head style, the widest looms or the strongest looms you can get is 18,000 looms. […] I would say anything more than that would be disruptive to the residents’ properties themselves.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:32:49

• Scope of Lighting Improvements

  • Summary: The current plan addresses every light on Chief’s List, which is stated to be a starting point, and there are other programs available but they would be very expensive.
  • Evidence: “We did address every light on Chief’s List. It’s a starting point. […] There are programs I’m going to tell you, I have done more light research in the last week and a half than I’d like to have done in my whole life, but there’s programs out there to change every light in town, but it’s going to be very expensive and it’ll be an added cost to every user in this town per month for the rest of our life if we want to do that. This is a starting point.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:32:49

• Tree Trimming Focus Areas

  • Summary: The primary focus for trimming trees back is on streets being addressed that year in preparation for paving; however, limbs can also be clipped back in crime areas.
  • Evidence: “Our number one focus of trimming trees back is generally started on the streets that we’re addressing this year, because we’re prepping to get the streets paved and the material, and that’s the first step in the process is trimming them up. But in the crime areas, we’re trying to go in those and clip all the limbs back that we can as well.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:34:41

• Utility Bill Reduction Advice

  • Summary: Citizens were advised to join the Citizens Utility Board Environmental Study Group and State Representative John Cabello to learn about reducing utility bills and accessing clean energy programs.
  • Evidence: “Alderman Seller? Yes, I would just like everyone to remember to join the Citizens Utility Board Environmental Study Group and State Representative John Cabello to learn about how to reduce your utility bills and to tap into money-saving clean energy programs.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:38:35

Public Comment

• Water Infrastructure Support

  • Summary: The speaker expressed support for the city’s efforts to secure the community’s water future through property purchase and infrastructure modernization.
  • Attribution: Bill Schramm
  • Evidence: “I am here tonight to say I am pleased to see the city of Freeport is taking steps to secure our community’s water future with a purchase of the property for well 12. The city’s commitment providing safe, clean drinking water is evident in the speed and efficiency with which they are getting the job done.”
  • Source timestamp: 05:12

• MSA Support for Freeport Development

  • Summary: The speaker expressed strong support for the MSA initiative, citing benefits like ensuring safe homes, attracting responsible homeowners, and increasing community value.
  • Attribution: Wendy Slayton
  • Evidence: “My name is Wendy Slayton. I’m a current resident of Freeport, Illinois, and I’m very happy to be here… The MSA is definitely a good idea for all of us for the residents of Freeport. It improves the quality of life for the current residents by ensuring homes are safe, sanitary and structurally sound.”
  • Source timestamp: 06:37

• Community benefits of home ownership and rehabilitation

  • Summary: Home ownership fosters pride and stability leading to greater civic engagement; rehabilitation increases property values.
  • Evidence: “Number three, strengthening our community. Home ownership fosters a sense of pride and stability leading to greater civic engagement and more cohesive community. Number four, increasing community value. Rehabilitation of our homes increases the property values in the area, thus improving the overall value of the community. I am confident that this initiative will contribute significantly to the betterment of Freeport, creating a more vibrant and prosperous future for us all and all of our residents. I urge that the grant and the IHDA is recognized and prospered. Thank you.”
  • Source timestamp: 07:02

• Thanking Director Darren for work on city lights and safety improvements

  • Summary: The speaker thanked Director Darren for his work in getting the lights fixed, noting his commitment to making Freeport a better safer place.
  • Attribution: Public Commenter
  • Evidence: “I just want to thank Director Darren for all the work you’ve put in getting us our lights I know it’s been a back-and-forth problem on the council floor But I feel like this entire time you’ve been set on making Freeport a better safer place, so I appreciate you.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:39:42

• Concerns regarding the term ’emergency’ and city liability

  • Summary: The speaker questioned the use of the word ’emergency’ and demanded accountability for potential lawsuits against the city, citing a lack of compassion shown to a citizen.
  • Attribution: Kia Sanders
  • Evidence: “My name is Kia Sanders. I just want to say like when you when you use the word emergency that doesn’t mean four years in gap Got to be raising a question. I mean my head’s too thick or maybe I’m crazy, but that doesn’t mean emergency to me and then I want to know like pay somebody that is gonna have to pay me as a I don’t know why you decided to you know not to tell them that there is a pending lawsuit against this city of Freeport at any given time they’re gonna pay me for the stuff they stole or for knocking down my house somebody is going to pay me the fact that you showed no compassion about a citizen having a problem and you don’t Don’t even weigh his question, why he used the word emergency and waited four years. And this is the only case that he does like this.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:39:42

• Invitation to meet and greet for District 145 candidates

  • Summary: The speaker invited the public to a meet and greet on March 5th, from 6 to 8 PM at the Eagles Club to meet write-in candidates for District 145, Pat Ludwig and Dennis Myers, plus all other running candidates.
  • Attribution: Linda Johnson
  • Evidence: “Linda Johnson. I just want to invite the public to the meet and greet. It’s going to be March 5th, 6 to 8 at the Eagles Club to meet and greet. There’s write-in candidates for District 145, Pat Ludwig and Dennis Myers, plus all the candidates that are running for office will be at this meet and greet. So we’d like people to come out and meet them.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:41:00

Proclamations and Recognitions

• Service Award for Brandon Wells

  • Summary: Brandon Wells has been with the Public Works Department for 15 years and works in maintenance, responsible for maintaining water plants, wells, wastewater treatment plant, all lift stations.
  • Attribution: Manager Boyer
  • Evidence: “Brandon Wells has been with the Public Works Department for 15 years. Brandon has worked for the city in the maintenance department. His first position was maintenance electrician and serves as the maintenance foreman today. Brandon and his team are responsible for maintaining the water plants, wells, wastewater treatment plant, all of our lift stations and ensuring the facilities are functioning and properly running 24-7.”
  • Source timestamp: 40:42

• Service Award for Emily Danikis

  • Summary: Emily Danikis has five years of service with the City of Freeport, starting as a Police Explorer member and later hired as a telecommunicator.
  • Attribution: Chief Shenberger
  • Evidence: “I’d like to recognize Emily Danikis for her five years of service with the City of Freeport. Emily actually started off as a member of our Police Explorer program and then she transitioned as a member of our Freeport Police Department Auxiliary Unit when she became old enough. About five years ago, Emily was hired as a telecommunicator in the Dispatch Center”
  • Source timestamp: 42:51

• Praise for Alderman Parker’s performance in three points

  • Summary: The speaker complimented Don Parker, stating he did a good job compared to the others in the three points.
  • Attribution: Public Commenter
  • Evidence: “And Don Parker, I just wanted to tell you, you did a good job. You did best of all of them in the three points. Thank you, Tom.”
  • Source timestamp: 01:41:44

Follow-ups

• Program Start Timeline

  • Summary: Applications are due in March; IDA intends to review applications until June or July, and programs can start expending funds in August of 2025.
  • Evidence: “IDA, the applications are due in March. IDA intends to review applications until June or July once awards are announced, the programs will get, you know, their grant agreement and be able to start doing the work and expending funds in August of 2025.”
  • Source timestamp: 20:20

• New home property value threshold documentation

  • Summary: The speaker agreed to pull up the specific number for the new home property value threshold.
  • Evidence: “Okay, but I can pull that Winslow. That’s fair enough if you want to pull that up.”
  • Source timestamp: 31:45

• Lead certified housing inspector consultation

  • Summary: The speaker stated that when contracting with a third-party grant administrator like MSA, they would sub-consult with a lead certified housing inspector.
  • Evidence: “So when you do contract with a third party grant administrator such as MSA, we would sub-consult with a lead certified housing inspector.”
  • Source timestamp: 32:27

Attendance

• Roll Call Check
  • Summary: Confirmation of attendance for council members.
  • Attribution: Mayor Miller
  • Evidence: “Mayor Miller? Here. Alderpersons, Klemm? Here. Monroe? Here. Simmons? Here. Parker? Here. Stacy? Here. Shadle? Here. Sanders? Here. And Sellers?”
  • Source timestamp: 03:07