Meeting Events

Meeting: asaddxzx5rm.committee_of_the_whole_10_20_2025

Meeting date: 2025-10-20

Meeting type: committee_of_the_whole

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

Decisions and Votes

• Approval of Agenda (Item 1) — Passed

  • Summary: Motion made to approve the agenda.
  • Attribution: Alderman Sellers, Council
  • Evidence: “So with that, start with item number one which is the approval of the agenda. Is there such a motion? So moved. Settlers. 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: 02:23

• Approval of Minutes from Special Meeting on September 22nd, 2025 (Item 2) — Passed

  • Summary: Motion made to approve the minutes from the special meeting held on September 22nd, 2025.
  • Attribution: Alderman Shadle, Council
  • Evidence: “Item number two is the approval of the minutes from the special meeting on September 22nd, 2025. Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
  • Evidence: “All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes.”
  • Source timestamp: 03:31

• Approval of Consent Agenda Items — Passed

  • Summary: Motion made to approve the items listed on the consent agenda.
  • Attribution: Alderman Sellers, Council
  • Evidence: “Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  • Evidence: “Johnson. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye.”
  • Source timestamp: 07:29

• Approval of appointments — Passed

  • Summary: Motion made by Alderman Sellers to approve the listed appointments.
  • Attribution: Alderman Sellers, N/A
  • Evidence: “We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
  • Evidence: “Johnson. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye. Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sellers. Klemm. Aye. The motion is approved, seven to zero.”
  • Source timestamp: 07:29

• Moving ordinance 20-25-59 forward

  • Summary: A motion was made to move the ordinance regarding property disposal forward.
  • Attribution: Alderman Parker
  • Evidence: “Is there a A motion to move this ordinance forward? Second. A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
  • Source timestamp: 08:49

• Suspension of rules vote — Passed

  • Summary: The suspension of the rules was passed by a seven to zero vote.
  • Attribution: N/A
  • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll, the call on the suspension only? Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The suspension passes seven to zero.”
  • Source timestamp: 10:21

• Final passage of ordinance 20-25-59 — Passed

  • Summary: The final passage vote on the ordinance passed seven to zero.
  • Attribution: N/A
  • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Shadel, Sellers, and Klemm. And the ordinance passes seven to zero.”
  • Source timestamp: 10:45

• Passing of ordinance — Passed

  • Summary: The ordinance passed seven to zero.
  • Evidence: “And the ordinance passes seven to zero. Thank you.”
  • Source timestamp: 10:50

• Adoption of resolution 2025-125: License agreement with Surf Air Wireless doing business as Surf Internet — Adopted

  • Summary: Motion to adopt the agreement for renting one micro duct.
  • Evidence: “So staff requests moving forward with this agreement. Is there a motion to adopt? So Second. Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
  • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. The resolution is adopted 7-0.”
  • Source timestamp: 11:18

• Adoption of resolution 2025-126: License Agreement for Attachment of Surveillance Cameras on City-Owned Light Poles with TSR or Revamp Companies — Adopted

  • Summary: Motion to adopt the agreement with Rebant.
  • Evidence: “Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
  • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. The resolution is adopted six to one.”
  • Source timestamp: 13:27

• Adoption of Fehr Graham agreement for street reconstruction — Adopted

  • Summary: The resolution was adopted seven to zero.
  • Attribution: Alderman Sellers, Clerk
  • Evidence: “So it’s been very it’s been working very well here the last few years and Staff recommends moving forward with this resolution. Thank you. Is there a motion to adopt? So move. Second.”
  • Evidence: “Johnson. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye. Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sellers. Aye. And Klemm. Aye. The resolution is adopted seven to zero.”
  • Source timestamp: 15:42

• Approval of bid for 628 East Wyandotte Street

  • Summary: Motion to approve the bid for 628 East Wyandotte.
  • Attribution: Alderman Shadle
  • Evidence: “So we’ll start with 628 East Wyandotte. Is there a motion to approve that bid? So moved. Second.”
  • Source timestamp: 18:00

• Motion regarding 628 CMM and Associates renovations — Passed

  • Summary: The motion passed seven to zero.
  • Evidence: “Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The motion passes seven to zero.”
  • Source timestamp: 19:02

• Approval of bid for 724 East Wyandotte — Approved

  • Summary: Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.
  • Evidence: “So now we’ll take item number 12, which would be on 724 East Wyandotte. Is there a motion to approve that bid? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
  • Evidence: “Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. And that motion is also approved, 7-0.”
  • Source timestamp: 19:02

• Adjournment of meeting — Passed

  • Summary: Motion made to adjourn the session.
  • Evidence: “I’ll entertain a motion for adjournment. So moved. Second.”
  • Evidence: “All those in favor? Aye.”
  • Source timestamp: 44:58

Procedural Actions

• Invocation and Opening Remarks

  • Summary: The meeting began with an invocation and procedural reminders regarding council rules.
  • Attribution: Mayor Miller
  • Evidence: “Good evening. Justin, could you please give the invocation this evening? Good evening, Madam Mayor, Council, everyone. Please pray with me. Well, Lord of heaven and earth, we give you thanks tonight for your goodness to us, for the gifts that you pour out on us day after day… So before we begin I’d like to just take a moment to remind everyone that the rules of council as established by ordinance need to be followed so that we can maintain order in our meetings and conduct business efficiently.”
  • Source timestamp: 00:00

• Mayor Miller addressing the council out of order

  • Summary: The speaker declared Mayor Miller’s action of reading the letter to be out of order.
  • Evidence: “Again, out of order, Mayor Miller.”
  • Source timestamp: 32:53

• Public comment period opening

  • Summary: The chair asked if there was any public comment for the evening.
  • Evidence: “Item number 17 is public comment. Is there any public comment this evening?”
  • Source timestamp: 38:59

Ordinances and Resolutions

• Ordinance authorizing sale, recycling, donation, and or disposal of certain personal property owned by the city

  • Summary: The first reading of ordinance 20-25-59 was introduced to authorize the disposal of city property.
  • Attribution: N/A
  • Evidence: “And item number seven is the first reading of ordinance 20-25-59. Could you please read this? Ordinance authorizing the sale, recycling, donation, and or disposal of certain personal property owned by the city.”
  • Source timestamp: 07:46

• Adoption of resolution 2025-125

  • Summary: Item number eight was the adoption of resolution 2025-125.
  • Attribution: N/A
  • Evidence: “Item number eight is the adoption of resolution 2025-125. Could you please read this? Resolution approving license agreement with Surf Air Wireless doing business as Surf Internet.”
  • Source timestamp: 11:02

• Maximum fine for conduct violation according to ordinance — Failed

  • Summary: A speaker corrected Mayor Miller regarding the maximum fine for a conduct violation, stating the actual ordinance stipulates $100, not $250.
  • Evidence: “You stated if you are declared to be out of order, you will be subject to a fine up to $250. However, according to the City American Legal Publishing Page that house all city ordinance, and others. The actual ordinance states as follows, any member who refuses or neglects to comply with any of the foregoing rules or who fails to conduct him or herself in an orderly and respectful manner at a council meeting shall for each offense for each offense forfeit to the city a sum not exceeding $100 upon being duly convicted by the council.”
  • Source timestamp: 34:22

Projects

• South Street Repaving Agreement with IDOT

  • Summary: IDOT agreed to repave South Street from Locust to Galena (estimated $4.5 million project cost to the city: nothing). The city’s participation involves constructing ADA ramps in the corridor.
  • Evidence: “Last week I was able to strike an agreement with IDOT to repave South Street. Our participation is doing the ADA ramps in the corridor so they can pave it. So we plan to have the ADA ramps constructed, designed and constructed by June 30th of next year and IDOT has agreed to repave South Street from Locust to Galena, which is probably a a four and a half million dollar project that will cost the city of Freeport nothing.”
  • Source timestamp: 21:58

• ADA grievance ramps for Church Street — Approved

  • Summary: The ADA grievance ramps approved by the council for Church Street are expected to start this week and be completed next week.
  • Evidence: “Another report the ADA grievance ramps that were approved by this council for Church Street we’re going to try to start those this week and complete them next week so that issue should be resolved”
  • Source timestamp: 22:52

• South Street resurfacing and sidewalks completion timeline

  • Summary: The South Street work is planned for completion in 26. The ADA ramps required are expected by June 30th (corrected from sidewalks). Repaving will take place sometime probably July to September.
  • Evidence: “And just to clarify, both of those projects with the sidewalks as well as the resurfacing on South Street, will our constituents be able to see that being completed in 26 or is that going to take a little longer? Right now, it is planned that the South Street work would be completed in 26, the sidewalks By June 30th, excuse me, not the sidewalks, the ADA ramps which are required. The repaving will be sometime probably July to September that that project will take place.”
  • Source timestamp: 23:25

• Galena Avenue resurfacing and new ADA ramps (IDOT)

  • Summary: A large IDOT project is expected for Galena Avenue from Park Street to Clark Street, involving all new pavement and all new ADA ramps. It might take two seasons to complete.
  • Evidence: “And I did miss one other project. Again, due to the relationship that we built with IDOT, we are expecting a resurfacing project and all new AD ramps starting next year. I don’t believe it completed next year, but it’ll be on Galena Avenue from Park Street to Clark Street. It’s a very large project for IDOT. I believe it might take two seasons to complete, but there’ll be all new pavement and all new ADA ramps in the corridor.”
  • Source timestamp: 23:55

• HSP sidewalks completion timeline

  • Summary: The HSP sidewalks are not expected to be done next year; it is estimated to be a two-year project due to federal processes required for ESR construction.
  • Evidence: “But with those sidewalks will they be done in 26 ones from the HSP ones. I don’t believe the HSP ones will be done next year. It’s usually because it’s a federal process for that money, usually takes a year to do an ESR to be able to construct them. So that’d probably be honestly a two year project to get it to the finish line.”
  • Source timestamp: 24:13

• IDOT five-year plan street repaving (West Street)

  • Summary: The last remaining street in the IDOT five-year plan is West Street from Galena Avenue to just beyond Empire Street. This will be a suicide lane repaving, similar to what was done on West Stephenson Street.
  • Evidence: “In the five year plan, the last remaining street that that made the five-year plan is West Street from Galena Avenue to South Street, excuse me, it’s not quite to South Street. It’s just beyond Empire Street. That’ll be a, what they call a suicide lane repaving.”
  • Source timestamp: 24:13

• West Street repaving timeline

  • Summary: The West Street project was slated for 10 to 15 years out but was pulled into the five-year plan and has already received phase one and phase two funding, meaning it should be completed in about five years.
  • Evidence: “That project was slated to be out 10 to 15 years and it got pulled into the five-year plan and they’ve already issued a phase one and a phase two for it, so that does mean that it should hit in about five years.”
  • Source timestamp: 26:12

Appointments

• Commission appointments and vacancies
  • Summary: Reappointments and new appointments were noted for the Arts and Culture Commission and Freeport Housing Authority.
  • Attribution: N/A
  • Evidence: “Reappointment of Yvette Sellers to the Arts and Culture Commission, effective through August 31, 2028, appointment of Gwen Shirley to the Freeport Housing Authority, effective through October 31, 2030, and the appointment of Jabria Pearson to fill a vacant seat for of the Arts and Culture Commission, effective through August 31st, 2027.”
  • Source timestamp: 07:07

Presentations and Reports

• Swearing In of Director of Community and Economic Development

  • Summary: Gertrude Heimerdinger was sworn in as the Director of Community and Economic Development.
  • Attribution: Gertrude Heimerdinger
  • Evidence: “I, Gertrude Heimerdinger, have been appointed as the Director of Community and Economic Development In the City of Freeport, in the County of Stephenson, I solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the State of Illinois, and I will faithfully discharge the duties of my appointment according to the best of my ability.”
  • Source timestamp: 04:17

• Consent Agenda Items

  • Summary: The consent agenda included approval for various routine items including board and commission minutes, department reports, financial bills payable, and payroll.
  • Attribution: Council
  • Evidence: “The consent agenda consists of approval to receive and place on file the board and commission Minutes from the Freeport Public Library August 13th 2025 and the Foreign Fire Insurance Board August 14th 2025 the reports from building permit police department and fire department all September 25 the finance bills payable in total of three million three hundred and four thousand forty dollars ninety five cents and payroll ending October 4th 2025 in the total of six hundred”
  • Source timestamp: 05:51

• Planning Commission Reappointments and New Appointments

  • Summary: Three reappointments to the Planning Commission (William Green, George Walker, and Will Clark) were noted, along with appointments for Arts and Culture Commission and Freeport Housing Authority.
  • Attribution: Council
  • Evidence: “We have three reappointments to the Planning Commission, all effective through October 31, 2029, William Green, George Walker, and Will Clark. Reappointment of Yvette Sellers to the Arts and Culture Commission, effective through August 31, 2028, appointment of Gwen Shirley to the Freeport Housing Authority, effective through October 31, 2030, and the appointment of Jabria Pearson to fill a vacant seat for of the Arts and Culture Commission, effective through August 31st, 2027.”
  • Source timestamp: 06:56

• Disposal of city property

  • Summary: Manager Boyer detailed that the City Hall, Pretzel City area transit, and the Pretzel City Kitchen require disposal or sale of property with no useful life.
  • Attribution: Manager Boyer
  • Evidence: “City Hall, Pretzel City area transit, and the Pretzel City Kitchen are currently in need of disposing or selling a property which has no useful life. In the case of the Pretzel City Kitchen, the program has been discontinued and staff would like to put the equipment up for auction. As far as the Pretzel City Transit, we have a number of buses that were involved in various incidents that damaged them and we want to make sure that those, we can essentially get rid of those. They’ve been at the city yards for quite some time. I mean years I think in addition to that office furniture we’ve accumulated a number of different chairs and desks and most of which have been reviewed by staff and if staff wanted to switch out a chair they’ve done so but now we have the ones that nobody wants downstairs so we’d like permission to get rid of that get rid of the chairs and the other furniture that’s in disuse.”
  • Source timestamp: 08:28

• Adoption of resolution 2025-125: License agreement with Surf Air Wireless doing business as Surf Internet

  • Summary: Manager Boyer presented details regarding a request for a permanent review for the section, where the city wants to rent its micro duct rather than having Surf install it in their own.
  • Evidence: “Resolution approving license agreement with Surf Air Wireless doing business as Surf Internet. Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. Don’t be confused. Surf Wireless is the company that’s installing fiber optics citywide to We’ve been renting out, I think we’ve rented out one to Unite Private Network when they did a build out, and Surf has requested a permanent review for the section, and we identified that we want them to rent our micro duct more than we want them to install it in their own. So, staff has brought forward a request for a permit review for the section, and we identified that we want them to rent our micro that we want them to rent our micro duct more than we want them to install it in their own. So staff has brought forward to you for discussion here tonight the rental of one of the micro ducts. I think that would mean we still have five open ones. Yeah. So for ten years and it would be three thousand dollars per year so the total duration of contract would be thirty thousand dollars. So staff requests moving forward with this agreement.”
  • Source timestamp: 11:02

• Adoption of resolution 2025-126: License Agreement for Attachment of Surveillance Cameras on City-Owned Light Poles with TSR or Revamp Companies

  • Summary: Manager Boyer presented that Revamp requested to put two cameras on existing city poles, and staff recommends an agreement for $100 a year for five years.
  • Evidence: “Item number nine is the adoption of resolution 2025-126. Could you please read this? Resolution Approving License Agreement for Attachment of Surveillance Cameras on City-Owned Light Poles with TSR or Revamp Companies. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. Revamp or TSR is in the old State Bank building on the corner of State and Stephenson. Revamp owns the building and they’ve been having some security concerns and have requested that they would like to put some cameras on, on two cameras on existing city poles. So we put together just a real quick agreement with them for $100 a year so they could attach their cameras to these two poles for five years. So staff recommends moving forward with the agreement with Rebant for $100 annually.”
  • Source timestamp: 12:42

• Adoption of resolution 2025-127: Agreement with Fehr Graham for engineering services

  • Summary: Manager Boyer noted that the community has several streets up for reconstruction in 2026.
  • Evidence: “Item number 10 is the adoption of resolution 2025-127. Could you please read this? Resolution approving agreement with Fehr Graham to provide engineering, design, and other services related to 2026 street improvements. Thank you. Manager Boyer. Thank you, your honor. So as we mentioned during the budget, community of the whole, we have a number of streets up for reconstruction for next year.”
  • Source timestamp: 14:00

• Fehr Graham agreement for 2026 street improvements

  • Summary: Manager Boyer presented a proposal from Fehr Graham for $385,500 to cover engineering, design, oversight inspection, and bidding for reconstruction of multiple streets in 2026.
  • Attribution: Manager Boyer
  • Evidence: “Resolution approving agreement with Fehr Graham to provide engineering, design, and other services related to 2026 street improvements. Thank you. Manager Boyer. Thank you, your honor. So as we mentioned during the budget, community of the whole, we have a number of streets up for reconstruction for next year. We did enumerate them already, but I’ll just quickly hit them real quick. We have work on Seminole, Carroll, South Demeter, Benton, Stewart, Dewey, Concord, Gladewood, Pershing, and a municipal lot. For us to continue our progress, we need an agreement for engineering and various other services related to the reconstruction of the streets. And we’ve received a proposal from Fehr Graham for the amount of $385,500 for the 2026. This includes design, Oversight Inspection and Bidding. So it’s been very it’s been working very well here the last few years and Staff recommends moving forward with this resolution.”
  • Source timestamp: 14:09

• Bid opening for rehabilitation of single-family home at 628 East Wyandotte Street

  • Summary: A bid opening was held on October 16th for the rehabilitation of a single-family home at 628 East Wyandotte Street.
  • Evidence: “Item number eleven. Could you please read the bill? Approval of bid. There was a bid opening on October 16th for rehabilitation of a single-family home at 628 East Wyandotte Street. Thank you. Director Heimerdinger.”
  • Source timestamp: 15:57

• Community Development Block Grant Housing Rehabilitation Program (Agenda Items 11 and 12)

  • Summary: The program allows improvements to be made to enhance the safety and quality of life for residents, covering nine homes total; tonight covers homes eight and nine.
  • Evidence: “Good evening. Agenda items 11 and 12 have been combined into one memo regarding the Community Development Block Grant Housing Rehabilitation Program. This is a program that allows improvements to be made to enhance the and Kierkegaard. We have a lot of work to do to help protect and protect the safety and quality of life for these residents. The program includes nine homes total. Tonight covers homes eight and nine, which are the final two homes within this grant.”
  • Source timestamp: 16:21

• Bid opening results for 628 and 724 East Wyandotte Street

  • Summary: For 724 East Wyandotte Street, two bids were received; one was disqualified for missing a bid bond or check. CMM and Associates submitted the only valid bid.
  • Evidence: “As they said, October 16th, we held the bid opening for a 628 and 724 East Windout Street. For a 628, we and the new systems and new gutters. For 7-24, we received two bids. One was disqualified for missing the necessary requirements, which was a bid bond or a check. And CMM and Associates submitted the only valid bid.”
  • Source timestamp: 16:44

• Public Works Department Report - IDOT Grant and Sidewalk Program

  • Summary: The City of Freeport was awarded almost $2.4 million for a HSP grant from IDOT to improve sidewalk access by South Street and West Street, connecting Cub Foods to Wal-Mart and Culver’s area to Aldi’s area.
  • Evidence: “Public Works? I’m very happy to announce that the City of Freeport will be submitted for a HSP grant from IDOT and last week we were awarded almost $2.4 million. This grant was submitted for sidewalk access by South Street and West Street. That’s the area that we’ve been talking about for a while, that people are driving scooters Fowler. This sidewalk program should give us connectivity from Cub Foods to Wal-Mart and from the Culver’s area to the Aldi’s area with sidewalks.”
  • Source timestamp: 20:29

• Fire Department Fire Prevention Month activities

  • Summary: The fire department reported that its three shifts completed educational visits to all grade schools in town during October, estimating about 2,500 children received fire safety education.
  • Evidence: “I’m pleased to announce the backbone of the fire department, meaning the three shifts are wrapping up fire prevention month educational visits to all the grade schools in town here. So, again, estimate about 2,500 children received fire safety education for the month of October, which they take home to their siblings, to their parents, their grandparents.”
  • Source timestamp: 26:32

• Police Department participation in Trunk or Treat

  • Summary: The Police Department (PD) will participate in the Trunk or Treat event on October 26th at Redeemer Lutheran Church.
  • Evidence: “Yes, Madam Mayor, I just wanna say that the PD will be participating in the Trunk or Treat October 26th at our Redeemer Lutheran Church. So come out and get some candy from some of the people that work at the PD.”
  • Source timestamp: 27:02

• Library Pumpkin Decorating Contest

  • Summary: The Library is hosting a Pumpkin Decorating Contest where attendees can vote for their favorite pumpkin.
  • Evidence: “I just wanna say that our pumpkin book character, Huffines. Thank you. The Pumpkin Decorating Contest is on right now, so make sure to stop by the library and vote for your favorite pumpkin. There’s a lot of really good ones.”
  • Source timestamp: 27:24

• Eastgate Christian Center Youth Conference

  • Summary: There will be a God with Us Youth Conference at Eastgate Christian Center this Friday and Saturday. On Saturday, sessions are scheduled for 11 AM and 2 PM, featuring Corey Curry, Cameron Henderson, and performances by The Tenacity and the Sweats.
  • Evidence: “Alderman Johnson? Yes, this Friday and Saturday at Eastgate Christian Center, they’re having a God with Us Youth Conference after the football game starts at 9 o’clock and then Saturday they have a session at 11 AM and 2 PM It’s featuring Corey Curry, Cameron Henderson, performance by the Tenacity and the Sweats and is for sixth grade through 12th grade.”
  • Source timestamp: 28:44

• Neighborhood Watch meeting

  • Summary: Announced a Neighborhood Watch meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 6th at The Schwartz Chapel on Park Boulevard.
  • Evidence: “I have a Neighborhood Watch meeting Thursday, November 6th. That’s it. The Schwartz Chapel on Park Boulevard, 6 PM”
  • Source timestamp: 37:27

• Street Department work status

  • Summary: Reported positive updates regarding the Street Department’s current and planned work.
  • Evidence: “I just want to say I’m glad to hear all the great work the Street Department is doing and all the streets that are getting done this year and what we got planned for next year”
  • Source timestamp: 37:44

Metrics

• Sidewalk Program Funding Details
  • Summary: The project requires a match of $300,000 for design, and Freeport is one of two awardees in the area.
  • Evidence: “There is some match money to this grant, we’ll have to pay for the design, and we had a match of $300,000 to build it, but it’s exciting, we’re one of the two awards in the area.”
  • Source timestamp: 21:11

Discussion

• Public awareness for kitchen equipment auction

  • Summary: A question was raised regarding how the public would be made aware of the kitchen equipment auction.
  • Attribution: Alderman Stacey
  • Evidence: “Alderman Stacey? The auction of the kitchen equipment. How will the public be made aware of this?”
  • Source timestamp: 09:32

• Suspension of rules to expedite ordinance passage

  • Summary: A suggestion was made to suspend the rules to allow for faster movement on the sale items.
  • Attribution: N/A
  • Evidence: “Absolutely. If Council is so willing, please feel free to suspend the rules because that would allow us to move along a little faster. We don’t have to wait till November to do this. I make a motion that we suspend the rules. I second. We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Johnson, to suspend the rules.”
  • Source timestamp: 10:01

• Future use of property at 628 East Wyandotte Street

  • Summary: Discussion regarding the future disposition of the property after rehabilitation.
  • Evidence: “Alderman Stacy. What are we going to do with this building? The work project? Yeah. I think you said it, didn’t you? We are going to, for 628 CMM and Associates, is going to provide new windows, radon abatement, a new HVAC system, which includes cooling and heating, and also new gutters. So when all this is done, what are we going to do with that property? That property stays with the homeowner. It’s that community development block grant that we received.”
  • Source timestamp: 18:32

• Property disposition after renovations at 628 CMM and Associates

  • Summary: The property remains with the homeowner following renovations funded by a community development block grant.
  • Evidence: “So when all this is done, what are we going to do with that property? That property stays with the homeowner. It’s that community development block grant that we received.”
  • Source timestamp: 18:45

• Upcoming community events (Bootyful Saturday)

  • Summary: On Saturday in downtown, there will be ‘Bootyful Saturday,’ starting at 10 o’clock with a free movie at the Lindo, and the store-to-store walk is from 11 to 1.
  • Evidence: “And also for any of you that have little ones, this Saturday in the downtown is Bootyful Saturday. If you have children of actually of all ages and you want to dress in a costume, your favorite costume, that starts at 10 o’clock with a free movie at the Lindo and then the actual walk from store to store is from 11 to 1.”
  • Source timestamp: 28:18

• Use and condition of Stephenson Street bike path

  • Summary: A speaker noted that the repainting of Stephenson Street into a one-lane each way configuration is being well utilized by people walking and biking.
  • Attribution: Alderman Parker
  • Evidence: “The other thing is that Stephenson Street that was repainted and turned into one lane each way, and that I was against it when it came up, but I drive it every day and I see a lot of people out walking in the bike path and stuff and it’s really being used and I think they’ve done a great job.”
  • Source timestamp: 29:27

• Consequences for breaking rules of conduct by Mayor Miller

  • Summary: A speaker questioned the consequences for Mayor Miller when she breaks the rules and who holds her accountable.
  • Evidence: “My question is, what happens to you, Mayor Miller, when you break the rules? You have frequently disregarded them. What are the consequences for your action? Who holds you and your allies on the council accountable?”
  • Source timestamp: 33:44

• Authority to declare rule violations

  • Summary: A speaker stated that according to the ordinance, the City Council has the authority to deem who has spoken the rules, not Mayor Miller.
  • Evidence: “You also seem to have conveniently overlooked who has the authority to declare a violation. According to the ordinance, it is the City Council that deems who has spoken the rules. Not you, Mayor Miller, as you would like to imply.”
  • Source timestamp: 35:30

• Application of conduct rules across all public body members

  • Summary: A speaker emphasized that enforcing rules must apply to all members of the public body regardless of status (elected, appointed, or hired) and that discipline must be administered with equity, fairness, and truth.
  • Evidence: “So while enforcing the rules of conduct in decorum is necessary, Perry, let’s ensure it applies to all members of the public body, regardless of statue, elected, appointed, or hired. Additionally, let’s make sure discipline is administrated with equity, fairness, and truth.”
  • Source timestamp: 35:44

• Praise for street crews work on Hans and Harvey streets

  • Summary: A speaker complimented the street crews for their work on Hans and Harvey.
  • Evidence: “Oldham and Shadle. Yeah. I’d like to compliment Street Crews on Hans and Harvey. Was driving down there today. Fantastic.”
  • Source timestamp: 36:12

• Future infrastructure funding consideration

  • Summary: A speaker noted the sheer magnitude of $6 million that is expected to be put out for future work.
  • Evidence: “Wanted to comment on the street list for next and the other things that we have to do next year and the sheer magnitude of it. Six million dollars that we haven’t seen in a long time to put that much money out and get that much done.”
  • Source timestamp: 36:51

• 1% sales tax funding

  • Summary: Stated that despite pushback, the 1% sales tax is securing necessary work.
  • Evidence: “There was a lot of pushback on the 1% sales tax, but this is what we’re getting. We’re getting the work done.”
  • Source timestamp: 37:19

• Running water west project status

  • Summary: Reported that the running water west project is progressing well, with pavement preparation observed.
  • Evidence: “The project of running water west is going fantastic. There’s no ifs, ands, but that looks like they were getting ready for pavement today.”
  • Source timestamp: 38:28

• Martinizing timeline

  • Summary: Indicated that Martinizing will likely occur shortly or in the wintertime.
  • Evidence: “Martinizing is probably going to happen shortly or in the wintertime as soon as some of these end up. Finish up?”
  • Source timestamp: 38:37

• Concerns regarding city safety and conduct of officials

  • Summary: A speaker expressed concern over a big storm coming to Freeport, criticizing Mayor Miller’s past actions and raising concerns about gun violence in the city.
  • Evidence: “There’s a big storm coming for the city of Freeport and you’re going to be involved, Mayor Miller. And I was glad because so many times she has cut everybody off, made nasty remarks to people. You’ve You’ve even cut me off and I really don’t care because I don’t care about you. What I care about is the people of Freeport and the way you guys are treating them. Gun violence is terrible in here. How many shootings have we had here in the last week? You don’t care because they’re not happening on your side of the town. I mean, you sit there and smirk and think you’re all high and mighty, but your world’s going to be crumbling down soon.”
  • Source timestamp: 43:32

Public Comment

• Rules of conduct and decorum violations by Mayor Miller

  • Summary: A speaker addressed the rules of conduct, citing instances where Mayor Miller allegedly broke them, such as calling council members liars, interrupting rudely, injecting oneself into unasked questions, and using a chair to deflect questions.
  • Attribution: Alderman Simmons
  • Evidence: “Seeing the rules of conduct in decorum, I hope these guidelines apply to you Mayor Miller and everyone currently seated on this council. There have been instances where you yourself have broken these rules. For example, you have called council members liars, interrupted them rudely with snide comments while they had the floor. You injected yourself into questions not asked to you and you even used your chair to deflect pertinent questions asked to the city manager.”
  • Source timestamp: 29:56

• Mayor Miller’s conduct regarding City Manager Boyer questioning

  • Summary: A speaker cited an instance on September 15th where Mayor Miller allegedly prevented Alderman Simmons from allowing City Manager Boyer to answer three questions.
  • Attribution: Alderman Simmons
  • Evidence: “For example, during our council meeting held September 15th, when I asked three questions of city manager Boyer, and you refuse to allow him to the opportunity to answer. Instead you pass the floor to Darren Steagall.”
  • Source timestamp: 30:40

• Mayor Miller’s conduct regarding public comment time limits

  • Summary: A speaker criticized Mayor Miller for verbally engaging with citizens who were allotted three minutes of uninterrupted speaking time during public comments simply due to disagreement.
  • Evidence: “You have verbally engaged with citizens who were allotted three minutes to uninterrupted speaking time during public comments simply because you disagreed with their statement. Furthermore, you have permitted certain members, certain council members, to tell citizens and John. And you’ve even allowed them to use the phrase, you people.”
  • Source timestamp: 31:21

• Mayor Miller’s conduct regarding reading letters at meetings

  • Summary: A speaker criticized Mayor Miller for choosing to read a letter to the council before any other business was conducted on October 6th, 2025.
  • Evidence: “Let’s consider the most recent instance of disrespect for the rules of conduct in decorum, which occurred on October the 6th, 2025. You chose to read a letter to the council before any other business was conducted.”
  • Source timestamp: 31:58

• Mayor Miller’s procedure for addressing the council

  • Summary: A speaker noted that Mayor Miller and the public must wait until the end of the meeting to address the council on nine agenda items, as no such topic was listed on the agenda.
  • Evidence: “Miller, and the public must wait until the end of the meeting to address the council on nine agenda items. I didn’t see a mayor address on the agenda nor the topic as an agenda item for the meeting.”
  • Source timestamp: 32:17

• Nature and intent of Mayor Miller’s letter reading

  • Summary: A speaker argued that Mayor Miller’s reading of the letter was not intended to put the council on notice but rather an opportunity for grandstanding.
  • Evidence: “So let’s talk about grandstanding. Your reading of the letter was not intended to put the council on notice, as you claimed. Huffines. Instead, it was an opportunity for you to grandstand, a chance for you to cater to your voter base while attempting to assert imaginary authority.”
  • Source timestamp: 33:04

• Proposed ordinance review request

  • Summary: Submitted an email requesting review of a proposed ordinance regarding sex and asking for replies from all council members.
  • Evidence: “I sent an email this morning asking for your review on a proposed ordinance in regards to sex I also ask for a reply from each of you, so I know you received my email, even if you weren’t able to read the information about the proposal.”
  • Source timestamp: 39:24

• Critique of city governance and social issues

  • Summary: Criticized council members for favoring elites with tax breaks while the working poor struggle, demanded better housing solutions in Freeport, improved crime reduction, and protection from pedophiles.
  • Evidence: “Do better than to please the elites so that their overflowing pockets are filled even more with favoritism and tax breaks for certain wealthy individuals while the working poor are struggling to pay ever higher bills each year. Where’s the justice in that? Do better with the housing situation in freeports so that the working poor are not run out of their homes by overpriced rents from wealthy landlords and realtor packs who support some of your election campaigns to maintain the status quo.”
  • Source timestamp: 40:15

• Critique of council conduct and justice issues

  • Summary: Criticized the reading of the Bible at meetings when not led by ‘chosen ones’ and cited Isaiah 10:1-2 regarding oppression.
  • Evidence: “At council meetings, the Bible is often quoted and read during prayers to perform a manner of holiness if the right people lead them. Otherwise, I have noted eye rolls and disrespect from some of you when other than chosen ones lead a prayer.”
  • Source timestamp: 41:43

• Complaint against city operations and personnel

  • Summary: Filed complaints regarding Elburn Sons operating without proper state compliance, unsatisfactory work from Rob Boyer and Wayne Duckman, and receiving contradictory paperwork for property.
  • Evidence: “I’m making a complaint against the city of Freeport, Rob Boyer, Wayne Duckman, and Elburn Sons. They were allowed, Elburn Sons were allowed to operate knowing they weren’t in complaints with the state of Illinois.”
  • Source timestamp: 42:44

• Complaint regarding local leadership accountability

  • Summary: Demanded action on Mayor Miller’s lease expiration and criticized her conduct towards residents.
  • Evidence: “And then also, why is Pete Elber still down there? Miller, his lease is up. You either need to evict him or something because now he’s living off us taxpayers.”
  • Source timestamp: 43:32

• Praise for police department personnel

  • Summary: A speaker expressed missing Chief Sugar Booger and praising the work of the police department, specifically mentioning Travis Davis at the police station.
  • Evidence: “Any other public comments? Tommy? I’m going to miss Chief Sugar Booger and he does a good job in that police department and all the police was doing a good job with it and Travis Davis is doing a good job at the police station and we’re going to miss him very much. He was a nice Chief of Freeport. Any other public comments?”
  • Source timestamp: 44:27

Proclamations and Recognitions

• Public Works Team Recognition

  • Summary: The public works team was recognized for their work, and Chief Shenberger was congratulated on a great career.
  • Evidence: “And lastly being this is Chief Shenberger’s last week the and the public works team would like to congratulate him on a great career and we’ve appreciated all the help he’s given us.”
  • Source timestamp: 22:52

• Chief Shenberger retirement recognition

  • Summary: The department congratulated Chief Shenberger on his career, noting he has worked loyally for 27 years and served as chief for two years.
  • Attribution: Your Honor
  • Evidence: “I just wanted to congratulate Chief Shenberger. He’s been the chief for two years, however, he’s worked for this department loyally for 27 years. He’s going to be very difficult to live without, but we are going to wish him the best and we thank him for his service and we thank him very much for all the work that’s come along, especially in the last two years.”
  • Source timestamp: 27:37

• Welcome to Gertrude

  • Summary: A welcome was given to Gertrude.
  • Evidence: “I would agree and also welcome Gertrude. We’re happy to have you be a part of the team.”
  • Source timestamp: 28:12

• Congratulation for Chief Shenberger’s departure

  • Summary: Alderman Parker congratulated Chief Shenberger on his move.
  • Attribution: Alderman Parker
  • Evidence: “Alderman Parker? Yes, I just want to also congratulate Chief Shenberger. I hate to see him go, but I’m very happy for him, congratulating him. It’s not an easy decision, so I want to say I think it’s good for him to be able to move on with his life.”
  • Source timestamp: 29:08

• Street Crews work on Warren Street

  • Summary: Complimented Street Crews for their fantastic work and presence on Warren.
  • Evidence: “I’d like to compliment Street Crews on Hans and Harvey. Was driving down there today. Fantastic. I saw they were doing work down on Warren, too.”
  • Source timestamp: 36:28

Follow-ups

• ADA Ramps for Church Street
  • Summary: The public works team plans to start construction on the ADA grievance ramps approved by council this week and complete them next week.
  • Evidence: “Another report the ADA grievance ramps that were approved by this council for Church Street we’re going to try to start those this week and complete them next week so that issue should be resolved”
  • Source timestamp: 22:52

Other

• Awarding contracts for East Wyandotte Street rehabilitation
  • Summary: Staff recommends awarding both contracts to CMM and Associates in the amount of $52,865 for 628 East Wyandotte and $61,915 for 724 East Wyandotte Street.
  • Evidence: “Staff recommends awarding both contracts to CMM and Associates in the amount of $52,865 Dollars for 628 East Wyandotte and $61,915 for the rehabilitation services at 724 East Wyandotte Street. Funding is provided through the CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Grant, supporting a strategic plan, a strategic plan goal of maintaining a safe and inclusive community.”
  • Source timestamp: 17:28