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Meeting Events: City Council Meeting

Deterministic civic events derived from machine-generated meeting records. These events are reviewable public-reference artifacts, not official minutes.

Source

Original public meeting recording on YouTube

Meeting Events

Meeting: tl_4taigyve.city_council_meeting_2_2_2026

Meeting date: 2026-02-02

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 changes for item number one — Passed

    • Summary: Motion to approve the agenda with changes in the order of promotions, moving items 6, 5, and 4 before two recognitions of life-saving awards.
    • Attribution: Alderman Shadle, Council
    • Evidence: “for item number one is approval of the agenda we have just a couple of changes in the order of the promotions will we will go item number six five four and then we’ll have two recognitions of life-saving awards before the service awards so with that is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second.”
    • Evidence: “All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:01

  • Approval of minutes from January 20th, 2026 meeting — Passed

    • Summary: Motion to approve the minutes from the council meeting on January 20th, 2026.
    • Attribution: Alderman Shadle, Council
    • Evidence: “Item number two is approval of the minutes from the council meeting on January 20th, 2026. Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second.”
    • Evidence: “All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion Passes.”
    • Source timestamp: 02:30

  • Approval of Consent Agenda Items — Passed

    • Summary: Motion to approve the consent agenda items.
    • Attribution: Alderman Sellers, City Council
    • Evidence: “Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
    • Evidence: “Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The motion passes 8 to 0.”
    • Source timestamp: 35:01

  • Consent Agenda Approval — Passed

    • Summary: Motion to approve consent agenda items.
    • Attribution: Alderman Sellers
    • Evidence: “Seeing none, the consent agenda consists of approval to receive and place on file the Historic Preservation Commission minutes from May 20th, 2025, Planning Commission, November 13th, 2025, the Board of Fire and Police Commission, December 23rd, 2025, the Fire Department Report, December 25th, the Greater Freeport Partnership Report, January 26th, the approval of the Finance bills payable in the total of $2,515,413.09 and approval of payroll for pay period ending July, or I’m sorry, January 24th, 2026 in the total of $610,616.81. Is there a motion to approve?”
    • Evidence: “So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
    • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The motion passes 8 to 0.”
    • Source timestamp: 35:47

  • Housing Authority Commission Vacancy Fill

    • Summary: Appointment of Gertrude Heimerdinger to fill a vacancy for the Housing Authority Commission effective through October 31st, 2027.
    • Evidence: “Item number 10 is an appointment. Could you please read for the record? Appointment of Gertrude Heimerdinger to fill a vacancy for the Housing Authority Commission effective through October 31st, 2027. Is there a motion to approve?”
    • Review flags: unattached_motion_request
    • Source timestamp: 35:47

  • Appointment of Gertrude Heimerdinger — Passed

    • Summary: Motion to approve appointment of Gertrude Heimerdinger.
    • Attribution: Alderman Shadle
    • Evidence: “Submove. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Parker.”
    • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Johnson. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye. Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. And Klemm. Aye. The motion passes eight to zero.”
    • Source timestamp: 36:23

  • Water Rates and Revenues Amendment — Passed

    • Summary: Vote on ordinance 2026.02.
    • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The ordinance passes 8 to 0.”
    • Source timestamp: 36:56

  • Unfounded neighborhood complaints policy adoption

    • Summary: The council voted on a policy holding property owners accountable for maintaining neighborhood peace.
    • Attribution: Madam Clerk
    • Evidence: “Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Item Number 13 is the second reading of Ordinance 2026-04. Could you please read this?”
    • Source timestamp: 39:04

  • Ordinance 2026-04 passage vote — Passed

    • Summary: The ordinance passed with a vote of 6-2.
    • Attribution: Council
    • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The ordinance passes 6-2.”
    • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? No. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The ordinance passes 6-2.”
    • Source timestamp: 40:42

  • Move ordinance amending dumpster regulations forward

    • Summary: Motion to move the ordinance regarding dumpsters forward for consideration.
    • Evidence: “Is there a motion to move this ordinance forward? So moved. Second.”
    • Source timestamp: 44:39

  • Ordinance amending water and sewer connection fees

    • Summary: Motion to move the ordinance changing water and sewer connection fees forward for consideration.
    • Evidence: “A motion made by Alderman Klemm seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the ordinance? Bless you. Move on to item number 16, which is the first reading of Ordinance 2026-07. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending various provisions of Part 10, Streets, Utilities, and Public Service Codes, Title 4, Utilities, Chapter 1042 and 1046, regarding water and sewer connections of the codified ordinances of the City of Freeport.”
    • Evidence: “Is there a motion to move this forward? So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Johnson.”
    • Source timestamp: 44:59

  • Move ordinance authorizing sale of surplus property forward

    • Summary: Motion to move the ordinance regarding the sale of surplus property forward for consideration.
    • Evidence: “Is there a motion to move this forward? So moved. Seconded. Second. A motion made by Alderman Parker seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
    • Source timestamp: 48:18

  • Move surplus inventory to second reading for auction

    • Summary: Motion made to move the surplus inventory request to second reading.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer, Alderman Parker
    • Evidence: “staff is asking to move this forward to second reading so that we can go ahead and auction this surplus inventory. Is there a motion to move this forward?”
    • Evidence: “So moved. Seconded. Second. A motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
    • Source timestamp: 48:18

  • Adopt resolution 2026-09: Police vehicles purchase — Adopted

    • Summary: Motion made to adopt Resolution 2026-09 regarding police vehicle purchase.
    • Attribution: Alderman Parker, Council
    • Evidence: “Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman. Parker? Klemm. Alderman Klemm. Seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
    • Evidence: “The resolution is adopted 8 to 0.”
    • Source timestamp: 49:27

  • Adopt resolution 2026-10: Dump bodies purchase — Adopted

    • Summary: Motion made to adopt Resolution 2026-10 regarding dump body purchase.
    • Attribution: Alderman Sellers, Council
    • Evidence: “Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Shadle.”
    • Evidence: “The resolution is adopted 8 to 0.”
    • Source timestamp: 51:30

  • Adopt resolution 2026-11: Water testing contract

    • Summary: Motion to adopt Resolution 2026-11 regarding water and wastewater testing purchase order.
    • Attribution: Council
    • Evidence: “Is there a motion to adopt?”
    • Review flags: unattached_motion_request

  • Adoption of funding for drinking water wastewater lab testing — Adopted

    • Summary: Motion made to adopt the purchase order for drinking water wastewater lab testing.
    • Evidence: “So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
    • Evidence: “Johnson? Simmons, Parker, aye, Stacy, aye, Shadle, aye, Sanders, aye, Sellers, aye, and Klemm, aye. The resolution is adopted eight to zero.”
    • Source timestamp: 53:34

  • Adoption of purchase of utility paving compactor roller — Adopted

    • Summary: The resolution approving the purchase of a utility paving compactor roller was adopted eight to zero.
    • Evidence: “Johnson? Aye. And Alderperson, Simmons? I’m not sure you’re coming across the speaker. Yeah, thank you. And how do you vote on this one? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. And Klemm? Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0.”
    • Source timestamp: 57:56

  • Contract approval for engineering services

    • Summary: Motion to adopt the agreement with Fehr Graham for construction oversight and supervision.
    • Attribution: Alderman Shadle
    • Evidence: “So staff request moving forward with the contract with Fehr Graham for construction oversight and supervision. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
    • Source timestamp: 59:15

  • Adoption of resolution 2026-14 (Easement agreement) — Adopted

    • Summary: The resolution authorizing the execution of an easement agreement with the Freeport Park District was adopted 6-2.
    • Attribution: Madam Clerk
    • Evidence: “The resolution is adopted 6-2.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:13:23

  • Adoption of easement agreement with Freeport Park District — Adopted

    • Summary: Motion to adopt the resolution authorizing the execution of an easement agreement with the Freeport Park District at the south entrance to Crepe Park for construction of well number 12.
    • Attribution: Alderman Shadle, Madam Clerk
    • Evidence: “A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers.”
    • Evidence: “The resolution is adopted 7-1.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:14:22

  • Approval of lowest bid for Municipal Lot paving — Approved

    • Summary: Motion to approve the lowest bid for the paving of the Municipal Lot and Alley behind Police Station.
    • Attribution: Alderman Shadle, Madam Clerk
    • Evidence: “There should be a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Klemm.”
    • Evidence: “The motion is approved six to two.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:15:39

  • Approval of bid for janitorial services for the police station — Passed

    • Summary: Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers to approve the lowest bid for janitorial services.
    • Evidence: “Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers to to approve the lowest bid for these services.”
    • Evidence: “Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Johnson? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacey? Yeah, why not? Shadle? Sanders, Sellers, and Klemm. The motion is approved eight to zero.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:17:16

  • Approval of bid for City Hall elevator maintenance contract — Passed

    • Summary: Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers to approve the winning bid for City Hall elevator maintenance.
    • Evidence: “So moved. Second. A 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. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Klemm? Aye. The motion is approved eight to zero.”
    • Source timestamp: 47:29

  • Adjournment motion

    • Summary: The chair indicated readiness to entertain a motion to adjourn, which was then moved and seconded.
    • Attribution: Chair
    • Evidence: “If there’s no further public comments, I will entertain a motion to adjourn. So move. Second.”
    • Review flags: unattached_motion_request
    • Source timestamp: 01:26:51

  • Adjournment

    • Summary: Motion to adjourn the meeting.
    • Attribution: Sellers, Council
    • Evidence: “You have a motion made by Sellers, seconded by Shadle.”
    • Evidence: “All those in favor say aye. Aye.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:26:58

Procedural Actions

  • Calling meeting to order and taking roll call

    • Summary: The Mayor called the meeting to order after a prayer and took attendance.
    • Attribution: Mayor Miller
    • Evidence: “I will officially call this meeting to order. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Mayor Miller? Here. Alder Persons, Klemm? Here. Johnson? Here. Simmons is absent. Parker? Here. Stacy? Here. Simmons is here”
    • Source timestamp: 01:01

  • Consent Agenda Approval

    • Summary: The consent agenda consisted of approvals for various minutes and bills payable totaling $2,515,413.09 and payroll for January 24th, 2026, totaling $610,616.81.
    • Attribution: City Council
    • Evidence: “the consent agenda consists of approval to receive and place on file the Historic Preservation Commission minutes from May 20th, 2025, Planning Commission, November 13th, 2025, the Board of Fire and Police Commission, December 23rd, 2025, the Fire Department Report, December 25th, the Greater Freeport Partnership Report, January 26th, the approval of the Finance bills payable in the total of $2,515,413.09 and approval of payroll for pay period ending July, or I’m sorry, January 24th, 2026 in the total of $610,616.81.”
    • Source timestamp: 35:01

Ordinances and Resolutions

  • Water Rates and Revenues Amendment

    • Summary: Ordinance amending codified ordinances chapter 1044 water rates and revenues section 1044.01 to add incentive pay for lead copper samples.
    • Evidence: “Item number 11 is the second reading of ordinance 2026.02. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending codified ordinances chapter 1044 water rates and revenues section 1044.01 established rates to add incentive pay for lead copper samples to be taken for lead service line replacement grant application.”
    • Source timestamp: 36:51

  • Vacation Rental Licensing Amendment

    • Summary: Ordinance amending Chapter 810 concerning the licensing of vacation rentals to add penalties for multiple violations of federal, state, or local regulations (Good Neighbor Policy).
    • Evidence: “Item number 12 is the second reading of ordinance 20 2603. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending Chapter 810 concerning the licensing of vacation rentals to add penalties for multiple violations of federal, state, or local regulations, also known as the Good Neighbor Policy.”
    • Source timestamp: 37:43

  • Ordinance 2026-04: Allowing contractor offices in B1, B2, and B3 districts

    • Summary: Ordinance amending Chapter 1252 of the Zoning Code to allow offices of contractors as a permitted use in B1, 2, and 3 business districts.
    • Attribution: Madam Clerk
    • Evidence: “Item Number 13 is the second reading of Ordinance 2026-04. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending Chapter 1252 of the Zoning Code to allow offices of contractors as a permitted use in B1, 2, and 3 business districts.”
    • Source timestamp: 39:21

  • Ordinance 2026-05: Allowing residential units above ground floor in CBD

    • Summary: Ordinance amending Chapter 1252 of the Zoning Code to allow residential units as a permitted use above the ground floor of buildings in the Central Business District.
    • Attribution: Madam Clerk
    • Evidence: “item number 14 is the second reading of Ordinance 2026-05. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending Chapter 1252 of the Zoning Code to allow residential units as a permitted use above the ground floor of buildings in the Central Business District.”
    • Source timestamp: 41:01

  • Ordinance 20-26-06: Waste and Recycling Collection Amendments

    • Summary: Ordinance amending Part 10, Streets, Utilities, and Public Services Code, Title 6, Other Public Services, Chapter 1060, regarding Temporary Dumpsters, Trash Containers, Trailers, Construction Trailers, or Equipment Used for Construction Projects.
    • Attribution: Madam Clerk
    • Evidence: “Item number 15 is the first reading of Ordinance 20-26-06. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending Part 10, Streets, Utilities, and Public Services Code, Title 6, Other Public Services, Chapter 1060, Waste and Recycling Collection and Disposal, Section 1060-07, Temporary Dumpsters, Trash Containers, Trailers, Construction Trailers, or Equipment Used for Construction Projects, including Trailers or Wagons, Use on Public Ways, and Section 1060-12, Construction Debris, Containers, Collection, I’m sorry, it’s just those three, of the codified ordinances of the City of Freeport.”
    • Source timestamp: 42:37

  • Ordinance amending Part 10, Streets, Utilities, and Public Services Code, Title 6, Other Public Services, Chapter 1060, Waste and Recycling Collection and Disposal, Section 1060-07, Temporary Dumpsters, Trash Containers, Trailers, Construction Trailers, or Equipment Used for Construction Projects, including Trailers or Wagons, Use on Public Ways, and Section 1060-12, Construction Debris, Containers, Collection

    • Summary: The ordinance amends sections related to temporary dumpsters and construction debris disposal.
    • Attribution: City Council
    • Evidence: “Ordinance amending Part 10, Streets, Utilities, and Public Services Code, Title 6, Other Public Services, Chapter 1060, Waste and Recycling Collection and Disposal, Section 1060-07, Temporary Dumpsters, Trash Containers, Trailers, Construction Trailers, or Equipment Used for Construction Projects, including Trailers or Wagons, Use on Public Ways, and Section 1060-12, Construction Debris, Containers, Collection”
    • Source timestamp: 42:39

  • Ordinance authorizing sale, recycling, donation, and or disposal of certain personal property

    • Summary: The ordinance concerns the disposition of surplus inventory from public works and the airport.
    • Attribution: City Council
    • Evidence: “Item number 17 is the first reading of ordinance 2026-08. Could you please read this? Ordinance authorizing sale, recycling, donation, and or disposal of certain personal property We have public works and Alberta’s airport equipment.”
    • Source timestamp: 47:41

  • Adoption of resolution 2026-09: Purchase and up fit of four new police vehicles

    • Summary: Resolution approving purchase and up fit of four new police vehicles from Stevers Ford.
    • Attribution: Alderman Sellers
    • Evidence: “Item number 18 is the adaption of resolution 2026-09. Could you please read this? Resolution approving purchase and up fit of four new police vehicles from a source well provider, Stevers Ford.”
    • Source timestamp: 48:30

  • Adoption of resolution 2026-10: Purchase of two new dump bodies

    • Summary: Resolution approving the purchase of two new dump bodies for the public works department’s hook lift trucks from Bunnell Industries.
    • Attribution: Alderman Sellers
    • Evidence: “Item number 19 is the adoption of resolution 202610. Could you please read this? Resolution approving the purchase of two new dump bodies for the public works department’s hook lift trucks from another source well provider, Bunnell Industries.”
    • Source timestamp: 50:37

  • Adoption of resolution 2026-11: Water and wastewater testing analysis contract

    • Summary: Resolution approving purchase orders with PACE Analytical Services for annual drinking water and wastewater sample testing analysis.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “Item number 20 is the adoption of resolution 202611. Could you please read this? Resolution approving purchase orders with PACE Analytical Services to provide annual drinking water and wastewater sample testing analysis.”
    • Source timestamp: 52:13

  • Adoption of Resolution 2026-12: Purchase of utility paving compactor roller

    • Summary: Resolution approving the purchase of a utility paving compactor roller from Altofer Cat.
    • Evidence: “Item number 21 is the adoption of resolution 2026-12. Could you please read this? Resolution approving the purchase of a utility paving compactor roller from a source well provider, Altofer Cat.”
    • Source timestamp: 54:00

  • Adoption of Resolution 2026-13: Agreement for construction engineering services

    • Summary: Resolution approving an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services for City Municipal Lot and Police Station Alley Pavement Reconstruction.
    • Evidence: “Item number 22 is the adoption of resolution 2026,613. Could you please read this? Resolution approving an agreement with Fehr Graham to provide construction engineering services for City Municipal Lot and Police Station Alley Pavement Reconstruction.”
    • Source timestamp: 57:56

Appointments

  • Deputy Fire Chief appointment for City of Freeport

    • Summary: Hillary L. Broschus was appointed to the position of Deputy Chief for the City of Freeport.
    • Evidence: “So the official commission, the City of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission, to all to whom these present shall come, Hillary L. Broschus, having been duly appointed to to the position of Deputy Chief and for the City of Freeport in the County of Stephenson, the State of Illinois, for the term from the second day of February 2026 until her successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified, is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties of her said office according to law and the ordinances of said city and all persons are required to respect her in the discharge of her said duties by order of the Board of Fire and Police Commission.”
    • Source timestamp: 07:54

  • District Chief appointment for City of Freeport

    • Summary: Matthew F. Kile was appointed to the position of District Chief for the City of Freeport.
    • Evidence: “Next up will be Matthew F. Kile, the official commission of the City of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission to all to whom these present shall come, Matthew F. Kile, have been duly appointed to the position of district chief and for the city of Freeport in the county of Stephenson in the state of Illinois for the term for the second day of February 2026 until his successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties of his said office according to law and the ordinances of said city and all persons are required to respect him in the discharge of his said duties by order of the board of fire and police commission.”
    • Source timestamp: 10:34

  • Matthew F. Kile appointment as District Chief

    • Summary: Matthew F. Kile was appointed to the position of district chief for the city of Freeport in Stephenson County, Illinois, effective February 2, 2026.
    • Attribution: Board of Fire and Police Commission
    • Evidence: “Kile, the official commission of the City of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission to all to whom these present shall come, Matthew F. Kile, have been duly appointed to the position of district chief and for the city of Freeport in the county of Stephenson in the state of Illinois for the term for the second day of February 2026 until his successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties of his said office according to law and the ordinances of said city and all persons are required to respect him in the discharge of his said duties by order of the board of fire and police commission.”
    • Source timestamp: 10:34

  • Mark D McCullough appointment as Lieutenant

    • Summary: Mark D McCullough was appointed to the position of lieutenant for the city of Freeport in Stephenson County, Illinois, effective February 2, 2026.
    • Attribution: Board of Fire and Police Commission
    • Evidence: “Official Commission the city of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission to all to whom these present shall come Mark D McCullough having been duly appointed to the position of lieutenant in and for the city of Freeport Report, and the County of Stephenson and State of Illinois for the term from the second day of February 2026 until his successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified, is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties of his said office according to law and the ordinances of said city, and all persons are required to respect Heim in the discharge of his said duties by order of the Board of Fire and Police Commissions.”
    • Source timestamp: 14:21

  • Christopher J. Brennan appointment as Lieutenant

    • Summary: Christopher J. Brennan was appointed to the position of Lieutenant for the city of Freeport in Stephenson County, Illinois, effective February 2, 2026.
    • Attribution: Board of Fire and Police Commission
    • Evidence: “Chris Brennan, Lieutenant Official Commission, City of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission, to all to whom these presents shall come. Christopher J. Brennan, having been duly appointed to the position of Lieutenant in and for the City of Freeport in the County of Stephenson and State of Illinois for the term from the second day of February 2026 until his successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties of his said office according to law and the ordinances of said city and all persons are required to respect him in the discharge of his said duties by order of the board of fire and and Police Commissions.”
    • Source timestamp: 16:59

  • Daniel Moore appointment as Corporal

    • Summary: Daniel Moore was appointed to the office of corporal for the city of Freeport in Stephenson County, Illinois, effective February 2, 2026.
    • Attribution: Board of Fire and Police Commission
    • Evidence: “Chief Frostow, Daniel Moore, Official Commission, City of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission, to all to whom these presents shall come, Daniel Moore, have been duly appointed to to the office of corporal in and for the city of Freeport in the county of Stephenson and state of Illinois for the term from the second day of February 2026 until his successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified. Is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties of his said office according to the law and ordinances of said city and all persons are required to respect him in the discharge of his said duties by order of the Board of Fire and Police Commission.”
    • Source timestamp: 21:08

  • Benjamin White appointment as Sergeant

    • Summary: Benjamin White was appointed to the office of Sergeant for the city of Freeport in Stephenson County, Illinois, effective February 2, 2026.
    • Attribution: Board of Fire and Police Commission
    • Evidence: “Benjamin White, the official commission, City of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission to all to whom these present shall come. Benjamin White, having been duly appointed to the Office of Sergeant in and for the City of Freeport in the County of Stephenson and State of Illinois for the term from the second day of February 2026 until his successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified, is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties of his said office according to the law and ordinances of said city and all persons are required to respect him in the discharge of his said duties by order of the Board of Fire and Police Commission.”
    • Source timestamp: 24:10

  • Bryan Polish appointment as Lieutenant

    • Summary: Bryan Polish was appointed to the office of Lieutenant for the city of Freeport in Stephenson County, Illinois, effective February 2, 2026.
    • Attribution: Board of Fire and Police Commission
    • Evidence: “Official Commission, City of Freeport Board of Fire and Police Commission, to all to whom these presents shall come. Bryan Polish, having been duly appointed to the Office For the office of Lieutenant in and for the City of Freeport in the County of Stephenson and State of Illinois for the term from the second day of February 2026 until his successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified is hereby fully authorized and empowered to assume and perform all the duties of his said office according to the law and ordinances of said city and all persons are required to respect him”
    • Source timestamp: 25:08

  • Appointment to Housing Authority Commission

    • Summary: Appointment of Gertrude Heimerdinger to fill a vacancy for the Housing Authority Commission.
    • Attribution: City Council
    • Evidence: “Item number 10 is an appointment. Could you please read for the record? Appointment of Gertrude Heimerdinger to fill a vacancy for the Housing Authority Commission effective through October 31st, 2027.”
    • Source timestamp: 35:47

Presentations and Reports

  • Sharps Award presentation

    • Summary: Presentation of the Safety, Health and Recognition Award to a public works agency.
    • Attribution: Mr. LeFevre
    • Evidence: “Item number three is a presentation of the Sharps Award. Mr. LeFevre, if you’d like to go to the podium. This is the first time Beth got on. Good evening. This is, you’re the first public works agency, there’s four fire departments and now you’re the first public works agency to receive this, the Safety, Health and Recognition Award.”
    • Source timestamp: 02:30

  • Matthew F. Kile professional background

    • Summary: Details regarding Matthew F. Kile’s service history, certifications, and education.
    • Attribution: Discussion
    • Evidence: “So Matt was appointed to the department December 8th of 2006 so he’s done 19 years on. Commoded to Lieutenant, June 8th, 2019. He’s a licensed paramedic with the state of Illinois, member of the technical rescue team, a tactical emergency medical services member, or TEM, advanced fire officer, fire department safety, incident safety officer, fire and arson investigator, Kurtz, Pezardous Materials Technician, Instructor 2, Fire Operatis Engineer, Fire Service Vehicle Operator, has an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science, he received the Fire Life Safety Award in 2022, and an EMS Life Saving Certificate in 2017.”
    • Source timestamp: 13:15

  • Mark D McCullough professional background

    • Summary: Details regarding Mark D McCullough’s service history, certifications, and awards.
    • Attribution: Discussion
    • Evidence: “So Mark was appointed to the department February 3rd of 2007. So tomorrow is his 19 years. Oh wow. He’s also a member of the Division of Technical Rescue team, member of the Foreign Fire Insurance Board and also a member of the Tactical EMS team. He’s a He’s a licensed paramedic with the state of Illinois, a fire officer one, instructor one, hazardous materials technician, hazardous materials incident command, fire apparatus engineer, fire service vehicle operator, fire department, and actually city employee of the year in 2024, and earned an EMS life-saving award in 2025.”
    • Source timestamp: 16:13

  • Christopher J. Brennan professional background

    • Summary: Details regarding Christopher J. Brennan’s service history, roles, and education.
    • Attribution: Discussion
    • Evidence: “Chris has been on the department for 11 years. He was hired December 15th of 2014. He was a mechanic for the department from 2020 to 2023. He’s a licensed paramedic for the state of Illinois. Again, member of the technical rescue team, member of the fire department’s safety committee, certified in fire apparatus engineer, fire service vehicle operator, officer one, instructor two, Edges, Materials, Operations. He has a bachelor’s degree in management systems.”
    • Source timestamp: 18:51

  • Brandon Reese Fire Department Service Details

    • Summary: Brandon Reese has five years with the fire department and holds multiple certifications including paramedic, advanced firefighter, and hazardous material technician.
    • Attribution: Fire Department
    • Evidence: “Brandon Reese has been with the fire department for five years. He came to us from Lanark with a little experience from down there. He’s currently on a shift. He’s a licensed paramedic with the state of Illinois, advanced firefighter, fire apparatus engineer, instructor one, hazardous material technician, hazardous material incident command, rope operations, vehicle machinery operations, water technical rescue, an associate’s degree.”
    • Source timestamp: 32:58

  • Good Neighbor Policy Details

    • Summary: Details on proposed Good Neighbor Policy suspension and revocation criteria.
    • Attribution: Director Heimerdinger
    • Evidence: “As previously discussed on January 20th, the proposed Good Neighbor Policy, Section 810.09, would suspend a vacation rental license for 30 days if the property receives two or more calls Huffines. And then when we revoke the license for three or more cars with the owner ineligible the following year. Only cars tied to violations of federal, state, or local laws, rules, or ordinances count. Unfounded neighborhood complaints are excluded. This policy holds property owners accountable for maintaining neighborhood peace, preserves community, harmony, and limits disruption. It aligns with the strategic plan for neighborhood and housing and safe and inclusive community with no additional funding required.”
    • Source timestamp: 38:06

  • Ordinance 2026-04 amendment details

    • Summary: The proposed amendment to Section 1252.01A 39.1 would allow contractors’ offices used primarily for business purposes and sample displays without fabrication or on-site storage of materials in both V1, V2, and V3 districts.
    • Attribution: Director Heimerdinger
    • Evidence: “This proposed amendment to Section 1252.01A 39.1 would allow contractors’ offices used primarily for business purposes and sample displays without fabrication or on-site storage of materials in both V1, V2, and V3 districts.”
    • Source timestamp: 39:55

  • Ordinance 2026-05 details

    • Summary: The proposed ordinance removes outdated regulatory hurdles and allows residential uses on upper floors, that’s That’s two and above within the central business district when the ground floor is suitable for a business use.
    • Attribution: Director Heimerdinger
    • Evidence: “This proposed ordinance removes outdated regulatory hurdles and allows residential uses on upper floors, that’s That’s two and above within the central business district when the ground floor is suitable for a business use.”
    • Source timestamp: 41:17

  • Dumpster permit process and recommendations

    • Summary: The city offers free permits for dumpsters for the first 14 days. Last year, only four permits were filed for all of 2025. The speaker prefers that people place dumpsters on their driveway or property rather than in the right-of-way.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “And I would point out after the hopeful approval of this, Davis. We are going to educate the public by pushing this out on social media. We do do permits for dumpsters for free for the first 14 days in the city of Freeport. Unfortunately, last year we only had four permits that were filed for dumpsters. We would prefer that people, if they want to rent a dumpster, put it on their driveway or on their property instead of in the right-of-way or the city property. It’s much safer. It’s less dangerous.”
    • Source timestamp: 44:13

  • Water and Sewer Connection Fee Changes (Ordinance 2026-07)

    • Summary: The ordinance standardizes connection fees. The water connection fee will increase from $1,600 for a near connection to $3,200. New water mains connections would be $1,000 unless waived. Inspections requiring no work will cost $100. For sewer connections, a $3,200 deposit is required, with the final charge being time and material costs.
    • Evidence: “To summarize, the water connection fee will go from $1,600 for a near connection to $3,200. The city is currently losing money on the $1,600 connection with everything that we have involved in it. When we build a new water main to a new area, those connections would be $1,000 unless they’re waived for that particular project. For any inspections that the city is required to perform, but not do any work, we would charge just a hundred dollar fee to cover our cost for that person to go out with a vehicle in time to cover those inspections. On the sewer side, we like to clean up some of the language and we do only give estimates on sewer connections because every sewer main is a different depth. And so we actually ask for a $3,200 deposit and then we get, we actually charge whatever time and material it takes.”
    • Source timestamp: 46:33

  • Surplus inventory auction request

    • Summary: Staff requested to move forward an auction for surplus inventory from the airport and public works department.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “Right now, if you’ll look at your packet, there are a number of different items that are surplus from the airport and also from the public works department, and staff is asking to move this forward to second reading so that we can go ahead and auction this surplus inventory.”
    • Source timestamp: 48:05

  • Police vehicle procurement justification

    • Summary: Chief Frostow stated that current squad cars are not working and that Steve’s is the best pricing for purchasing new police vehicles, especially considering the canine unit equipment.
    • Attribution: Chief Frostow
    • Evidence: “Good evening. We have now currently about four to five squad cars that really are not working and functioning as we speak after I’ve done my complete analysis. And after we looked at what is the best pricing, going through Steve’s is really the best pricing for us, especially with our canine unit that we have to outfit it.”
    • Source timestamp: 48:47

  • Public Works truck body necessity

    • Summary: Manager Boyer explained that existing hook lift trucks are useful in winter/fall but useless during construction season and staff requested purchasing two dump bodies for them. The total amount is $98,717.84 and was budgeted in the 2026 budget.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “Several years ago, we purchased two hook lift trucks complete with salt spreader VBOX spreaders and leaf machines. Those trucks are useful during the winter and the fall, but during construction season, they’re basically useless to us at the public works department with the intention that we always had to purchase hook lift dump bodies for these trucks. So, staff has brought to you tonight the request to purchase two dump bodies for the hook lift trucks. Total amount will be $98,717.84 and that was budgeted in the 2026 budget.”
    • Source timestamp: 50:37

  • Water testing service necessity

    • Summary: Manager Boyer noted that the cost of water testing is exceeding $10,000 per year due to inflation and increased testing costs, necessitating approval for a purchase order with PACE Analytical Services.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “As time has gone on, the testing has gotten more expensive and normally these were lab tests that would not necessarily come to council, it would just be part of a standard operating procedure. However, the total amount is exceeding $10,000 per year. So that’s kind of tracking with inflation and additional cost of testing. So staff is asking for approval to move forward with purchase order, the pace analytical for drinking water wastewater lab testing for the 2026 calendar year.”
    • Source timestamp: 53:04

  • Approval for purchase order for drinking water wastewater lab testing

    • Summary: Staff requested approval to move forward with a purchase order for pace analytical for drinking water wastewater lab testing for the 2026 calendar year because the total amount is exceeding $10,000 per year.
    • Evidence: “So that’s kind of tracking with inflation and additional cost of testing. So staff is asking for approval to move forward with purchase order, the pace analytical for drinking water wastewater lab testing for the 2026 calendar year.”
    • Source timestamp: 53:14

  • Need for additional construction roller for paving operations

    • Summary: Manager Boyer stated that an additional construction roller is needed because staff are getting proficient at paving and moving very rapidly. The price is $81,000.
    • Evidence: “As we continue to work the road program and we are doing more and more of the paving internally, we have the need for one additional construction roller. The price is $81,000. It comes through Altofer Caterpillar, which is a source well dealer”
    • Source timestamp: 54:20

  • Need for construction observation and supervision services

    • Summary: Manager Boyer stated that bids were received for the reconstruction of the municipal parking lot in the alley behind the PD, necessitating an agreement with Fehr Graham for construction observation and supervision.
    • Evidence: “So as we’ve discussed and we were working on last year, we are now received bids. You’ll see those later tonight for the reconstruction of the municipal parking lot in the alley behind the PD. As part For that, we do need construction observation and supervision, and we are bringing this for you tonight, an agreement with Fehr Graham to accomplish those items, and staff recommends moving forward.”
    • Source timestamp: 58:46

  • Agreement with Fehr Graham for construction engineering services

    • Summary: Staff recommends moving forward with an agreement with Fehr Graham for construction oversight and supervision for the reconstruction of the municipal parking lot in the alley behind the PD. The total cost is approximately $95,000.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “So as we’ve discussed and we were working on last year, we are now received bids. You’ll see those later tonight for the reconstruction of the municipal parking lot in the alley behind the PD. As part For that, we do need construction observation and supervision, and we are bringing this for you tonight, an agreement with Fehr Graham to accomplish those items, and staff recommends moving forward. The total cost of the project is approximately, let’s see, is $95,000. So staff request moving forward with the contract with Fehr Graham for construction oversight and supervision.”
    • Source timestamp: 58:46

  • Downtown parking lot funding and usage

    • Summary: The downtown TIF fund will be used to fund most of the project for the heavily used downtown parking lot.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “So we’re using the downtown TIF to fund most of this project, which is an investment into to the downtown area itself with this parking lot being so heavily used.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:12:57

  • Easement agreement with Freeport Park District

    • Summary: The agreement involves working together to build out a driveway and approach and construct the new well number 12 at the south entrance to Crepe Park.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “This is simply just an agreement saying that we’re going to work together as we build out our driveway and approach and also construct the new well number 12. Thank you.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:14:13

  • Bid opening for paving of Municipal Lot and Alley behind Police Station

    • Summary: The lowest responsive bid received for the reconstruction of the municipal parking lot and alley behind the police department is from Helm at $948,714.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “the lowest responsive bidder is Helm at $948,714. We’re using majority of the TIF funds to pay for the reconstruction of the parking lot and staff recommends moving forward with the bid from Helm.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:15:16

  • Department Reports Status

    • Summary: Multiple departments reported nothing for their status updates.
    • Attribution: City Council
    • Evidence: “The motion is approved eight to zero reports from department heads finance thank you uh community development nothing this evening thank you public works nothing fire I just I just wanted to thank everyone that helped out with our fire on December 30th between the City Administration, Public Works, and our mutual aid partners that helped out. It was definitely appreciated. Police? Nothing. Library? Nothing. Thank you. IT? That leaves us with the City Manager’s report.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:19:29

  • Awards Ceremony Acknowledgements

    • Summary: The City Manager congratulated Chief Cordy and all promotions on the fire side and police side, as well as awards given for going above and beyond duty.
    • Attribution: City Manager
    • Evidence: “I do have a few things. Congratulations to Chief Cordy and to all the promotions on the fire side and the police side, as well as the awards that were given for going above and beyond the duty. Thank you, Chief Frostow, for bringing those. I just wanted to say thank you to everyone that came tonight. It was a wonderful ceremony.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:20:10

Metrics

  • Engineering bid cost savings
    • Summary: The bid came in approximately $140,000 under estimate.
    • Evidence: “The bid itself came in approximately $140,000 under estimate.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:12:46

Discussion

  • Water Rates and Revenues Amendment

    • Summary: Staff recommends moving forward with the incentive program.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “Staff is requesting the flexibility to move forward with a $40 credit for residents that participate in our lead copper sampling program and staff recommends moving forward with the incentive. Any discussion?”
    • Source timestamp: 36:56

  • Temporary Dumpsters on Public Ways (Ordinance 20-26-06)

    • Summary: A dumpster was found on the street two days after paving was completed.
    • Attribution: Mr. Stiegel
    • Evidence: “To summarize this change to the ordinance with many of the new streets that we’re putting in around town, we have dumpsters that we’re finding on streets. Matter of fact, last season we had one where the dumpster got placed two days after we got done paving.”
    • Source timestamp: 43:13

  • Dumpster placement ordinance changes

    • Summary: The change is intended to protect streets from dumpsters placed directly on pavement, requiring heavy duty plywood underneath. The public works team cited this need, and the manager of local suppliers was agreeable.
    • Attribution: Manager Boyer
    • Evidence: “To summarize this change to the ordinance with many of the new streets that we’re putting in around town, we have dumpsters that we’re finding on streets. Matter of fact, last season we had one where the dumpster got placed two days after we got done paving. They get dropped on the pavement. We’re asking them to put heavy duty plywood or something like that under the dumpsters This ordinance changed to protect the streets and the investment that we’re making throughout the communities. This was cited by our public works team as something that they want to see happen.”
    • Source timestamp: 43:13

  • Budgetary confirmation for police vehicles

    • Summary: Discussion regarding budgeted money for the police vehicle purchase.
    • Evidence: “Alderman Stacey. Yes. Has there been money budgeted for this? As of now, we do have some budgeted money for it.”
    • Source timestamp: 49:32

  • Dump truck body procurement history

    • Summary: Discussion regarding the necessity and timing of purchasing dump bodies for public works trucks.
    • Evidence: “Alderman Stacy? Stacy. Is this the second time these dump trucks have come to us? No. It’s not the second time for the bodies, but we also have other dump trucks besides for this. The last time we talked about it was in the capital plan when we budgeted for them.”
    • Source timestamp: 51:39

  • Use case and necessity of new paving compactor roller

    • Summary: Alderman Sellers noted that the current roller being used is over 20 years old and inefficient for large paving jobs. Alderman Stacy questioned if the roller would be used only for pothole filling.
    • Evidence: “Oldman Sellers? Yes, I was just going to say, I see it’s a new model. How long do these, these last? Maybe Darren has one. So as I put in the memo, the current one that we’re using is over 20 years old and it’s needing to be retired. It’s not efficient for as large a paving as what we were doing… Alderman Stacey? Yes. Well, I know a lot of this pavement work is, is contracted out. So again, what are we talking about, potholes, filling potholes? What are we talking about this roller being used for?”
    • Source timestamp: 55:23

  • Scope of paving operations using the new roller

    • Summary: Staff clarified that the specific roller will be used in paving operations following the paver to compact the stone into the street.
    • Evidence: “So this specific roller that we’re talking about will be used in the paving operations that were actually paving the streets like we’ve been doing for, I think this will be our fourth year doing it. So this will follow the paver and we lay the binder, we lay the surface and this is what rolls and compacts the stone, the actual black stone into what’s the street.”
    • Source timestamp: 56:40

  • Funding allocation for municipal infrastructure

    • Summary: Alderman Stacy expressed concern about the high cost allocated to a parking lot versus the lack of funding visible for local streets.
    • Attribution: Alderman Stacy
    • Evidence: “Alderman Stacy? Yes, I’m just a little disturbed that we could. That we could put so much money, the city can put so much money in a parking lot, but when it comes to our local streets, we don’t even have an account. And this is very disturbing. How do we have so much for a parking lot? But we had to set up a five year to seven your plan for our streets because we had no budget. But we have budget for this. Help me understand.”
    • Source timestamp: 59:44

  • Scope of engineering services cost clarification

    • Summary: The $95,000 covers professional full-time on-site construction Engineering and Observation, Contract Management Services, GIS Survey, Collection, Staking, Layout, Storm, Sewer Piping, Curb, Gutter, Lighting, and Pavement Improvements for both project areas.
    • Attribution: Madam Clerk
    • Evidence: “So this $95,000 is just for the engineering services? Did I hear that correctly? I’ll be happy to go over it with you. It is, the scope of service is professional full-time on-site construction Construction Engineering and Observation, as well as Contract Management Services, also GIS Survey, Collection, Staking, Layout, Storm, Sewer Piping, Curb, Gutter, Lighting, and Pavement Improvements of both project areas.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:01:33

  • Total project cost clarification

    • Summary: The $95,000 is for the engineering service portion; the full bid is nearly $950,000.
    • Attribution: Alderman Sanders
    • Evidence: “So this resolution is for the engineering service portion of it, Madam Clerk. The bid is later on the agenda. It is nearly $950,000 and isn’t 10% engineering very, very typical. I mean, that’s right in line, right?”
    • Source timestamp: 01:03:08

  • Methodology for project cost accumulation

    • Summary: Alderman Sanders questioned the methodology used to arrive at the total price and bidding process for the parking lot engineering services.
    • Attribution: Alderman Sanders
    • Evidence: “Alderman Sanders. Are we talking about a parking lot still? We’re talking about the engineering service of it. How many dollars? If I had the evidence before me of this request of $95,000, if I had understood that and I would have studied it a little bit more in detail, my thing is what was the methodology of coming up with the total price and the bidding on it? Who’s orchestrating I’m just curious. I just want to understand how did we accumulate so much for a parking lot in engineering?”
    • Source timestamp: 01:03:28

  • Council due diligence on expenditures

    • Summary: A speaker questioned how the council could be asked to move forward with spending without having time for analysis, study, or debate.
    • Evidence: “I’m just trying to have an understanding of how do we come up with this method and how do we derive at a point where council is being asked to move this forward without us being able to analyze this or have any studies with this or debate with it or whatever discussion with it.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:05:48

  • Project timeline for current resolution

    • Summary: The project first came up in the spring of 2024, was planned for the 2025 construction season, and was discussed being pushed to the 26 construction season.
    • Evidence: “Well, this project came up first in the spring of 2024. We discussed it at length. We had it planned for the 2025 construction season. We ran out of time. We discussed pushing it to the 26 construction season.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:06:43

  • City Manager Boyer’s prior statements and council debate

    • Summary: A speaker stated that they did not want to get into a debate with the city manager on what he talked about two years ago or a year or two ago, noting that council had not debated the issue.
    • Evidence: “I don’t want to get into a debate with the city manager on what he talked about two years ago or a year or two ago. I’m saying right now we’re asked to do something, but council has not been refreshed on this Boyer.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:08:13

  • Council’s decision status on current resolution

    • Summary: A speaker stated that council had not made a decision whether they should go forward with the issue.
    • Evidence: “Nor we have had a debate on this issue, nor we have not even made a decision whether we should go forward with this. Council has not done that, and so that’s all I’m saying.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:08:35

  • Stacy regarding past agreements and current issues

    • Summary: A speaker noted that two years after voting and agreeing on an issue (like VITA), problems arise where the council is expected to remember details.
    • Evidence: “Yes. I just want to say in reference to. Sanders, and then two years later, even though we voted and agreed and all the rigmarole, and then two years later, now here we are again, for example, the VITA, but then things happen that we’re not informed about, like the permit being pulled, and we’re wondering why things get held up and pushed back, and then you expect us to go back two years and remember.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:09:40

  • Engineering services resolution status

    • Summary: A speaker stated that what was before them was the resolution about engineering services.
    • Evidence: “So what’s before you right now is the resolution about the engineering services. If you want to come back to that, otherwise you have expired your two times of talking.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:10:48

  • Engineering project scope and cost factors

    • Summary: The project requires significant undercutting underneath the parking lot because the existing base is on mud, and the goal is a parking lot needing no work for probably the next 30 years.
    • Evidence: “And so one of the reasons this project’s so expensive is there’s going to be need to be a significant undercut underneath the parking lot. And so we’re not building a parking lot trying to get by for, you know, five or 10 years here. We’re building a parking lot that is not going to need any work for probably the next 30.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:11:47

  • Basketball Game Acknowledgement

    • Summary: Alderman Johnson thanked the fire and police departments for the basketball game, noting it was exciting and fun to watch.
    • Attribution: Alderman Johnson
    • Evidence: “Council business would be Alderman Johnson. Yeah, I just want to say thank you to the fire department and and the police department for the entertaining basketball game. It was very exciting. They have some really good moves. It was kind of fun to watch. So thank you for all their efforts.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:20:35

  • Support for Fire Victims

    • Summary: A council member expressed sympathy for people on Clark Street who lost their homes in a fire, suggesting the Salvation Army is collecting funds.
    • Attribution: City Council Member
    • Evidence: “And my heart goes out to the people on Clark Street that have lost their homes. I went through a fire as a child and lost our house. However anybody can help them, I’m sure the Salvation Army in different places are taking funds for them. So thank you.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:21:10

  • Basketball Game Feedback

    • Summary: Alderman Sellers enjoyed the basketball game and suggested Linda could be a cheerleader next year.
    • Attribution: Alderman Sellers
    • Evidence: “Alderman Sellers? Yes, I just want to say we had fun at the basketball game, and maybe next year they can get Linda to be a cheerleader, because she was a cheerleader. But it was fun, and the police department did win, but congratulations to you, Chief, for being a part.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:22:09

  • Staff Recognition Congratulations

    • Summary: Alderman Klemm congratulated everyone on promotions and awards, noting the great staff recognition.
    • Attribution: Alderman Klemm
    • Evidence: “Alderman Klemm? Just congratulations to everybody on the promotions and the awards for time in. We’ve got great staff here and it’s awful nice to see them recognized.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:22:31

  • Fire hydrant functionality and city response during fire

    • Summary: The speaker stated that frozen fire hydrants were a misconception; the Public Works team opened them, and the fire department used them. They asserted that other distributed information about the incident was unfactual.
    • Attribution: Sellers
    • Evidence: “We did not have frozen fire hydrants during this fire. That has been a misconception that has spread around the city of Freeport. Those are old hydrants and they operate very hard. Our Public Works team was on the scene immediately and opened those hydrants and the fire department started to use them. Everything else that has been distributed around Freeport is unfactual, not correct and should stop. Leave it to the experts. Those houses were fully engulfed before the fire department got there and we did the best we could to help in this situation. And the City of Freeport dropped what they were doing to respond and help. And so as long as we’re going to deal with facts, the facts show that the fire hydrants worked in extremely rough conditions along with the fire department. So thank you.”

Public Comment

  • Fire Safety Concerns (Hydrants)

    • Summary: A public commenter expressed concern that the fire should not have been worse due to ignored negligence regarding frozen fire hydrants on the east side.
    • Attribution: Akia Sanders
    • Evidence: “My name is Akia Sanders. I haven’t been up here in a while. I want to say it’s cool to hear the public thanks for the fire, but I’m disturbed at why the fire lasted so long. We ignored the negligence for the fire hydrants on the east side way back a couple meetings ago, we heard that. Our fire hydrant was frozen. We could have saved one house for sure. The fire shouldn’t have been that bad.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:22:59

  • Fire Water Supply Concerns

    • Summary: A public commenter stated that the lack of sufficient water forced reliance on neighboring communities to put out a house fire.
    • Attribution: Akia Sanders
    • Evidence: “But I think it’s a load of crap that we don’t have enough water and we had to wait for our neighboring communities to come and put a fire out. That house is down to the ground. The owner may or may not have insurance due to the fact that maybe that house could have been saved is my point.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:23:29

  • Building Condition and Electrical Safety

    • Summary: A public commenter expressed concern about the raggedy buildings in an apartment complex and urged attention to fixing the electrical system.
    • Attribution: Miller
    • Evidence: “Anybody been in some of those apartments up there? Them is the most raggedy-est buildings I’ve ever seen. So I hope that the electrical gets fixed in there before anybody commonly tries to live up there. Pay close attention to that electrical.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:24:00

  • Misallocation of Funds (Parking Lot vs Housing)

    • Summary: A public commenter criticized spending money on an unimportant parking lot when the city faces homelessness and needs housing development instead.
    • Attribution: Miller
    • Evidence: “But what I’m saying is this, we can’t find no use and get to the root of all the problems in here but we can go spend money on a very unimportant parking lot? We have a lot of root problems here, not just our streets. We don’t have anywhere for people to go.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:24:33

  • Housing Development Plea

    • Summary: A public commenter urged the council to focus on building apartment buildings or housing units rather than other expenditures, stating the city is inviting poverty.
    • Attribution: Miller
    • Evidence: “What happened to the famous speech that you gave during all this election stuff? This in-field housing stuff. You don’t have no, build an apartment building. House some people. Get some people in here. Get our population back up. Somebody will come here to work, live.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:24:50

  • Fire Hydrant Misconception Correction

    • Summary: A public commenter refuted claims of frozen fire hydrants, stating the reports are untrue and that Public Works opened them immediately.
    • Attribution: Mr. Tickle
    • Evidence: “Yes. I want to address the comments on frozen fire hydrants. Those comments are untrue. We did not have frozen fire hydrants during this fire. That has been a misconception that has spread around the city of Freeport. Those are old hydrants and they operate very hard. Our Public Works team was on the scene immediately and opened those hydrants and the fire department started to use them.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:25:45

Proclamations and Recognitions

  • Passing of former Fire Chief Jim Gale

    • Summary: Announcement regarding the passing of former Fire Chief Jim Gale and a request for a moment of silence.
    • Evidence: “Before we move on to our next, just would like to make an announcement that we have learned that our former Fire Chief, Jim Gale, has passed away and so we would like to observe a moment of silence if we could please.”
    • Source timestamp: 03:42

  • Life Saving Award to Timothy Krieger

    • Summary: Timothy Krieger received the Life Saving Award for assisting a female occupant trapped in a structure fire on January 30th, 2026.
    • Attribution: Freeport Police Department
    • Evidence: “Timothy Krieger, you are hereby commended for your swift actions on January 30th, 2026 at the scene of a structure fire. Given your own immediate danger, you assisted a female occupant who had jumped from the second floor window and was trapped between the two burning buildings, unable to walk. Your decisive actions, personal courage, and calm demeanor under extreme conditions contributed to saving her life. The City of Freeport and the members of the Freeport Police Department and myself are very proud of your actions. I hereby give you the Life Saving Award.”
    • Source timestamp: 28:29

  • Life Saving Award to Sierra Matthews

    • Summary: Sierra Matthews received the Freeport Police Department life-saving award for managing a 911 call across a language barrier during a structure fire on January 30th, 2026.
    • Attribution: Freeport Police Department
    • Evidence: “And Sierra Matthews. Sierra Matthews, you are hereby commended for your actions on January 30th, 2026, during which you received a 911 call from a panicked caller who was trapped within a structure fire. You were able to communicate across a language barrier while maintaining control of the call, which directly contributed to the successful rescue and medical treatment of the victim. The city of Freeport and the members of the Freeport Police Department and myself are very proud of your actions. You are hereby presented with the Freeport Police Department, life-saving. With the Freeport Police Department life-saving award.”
    • Source timestamp: 29:00

  • Kathy Westby 25th Anniversary Service Award

    • Summary: Kathy Westby is celebrating 25 years with the city of Freeport, having started in 2001 as a telecommunicator.
    • Attribution: City of Freeport
    • Evidence: “Oh good evening. On February 12th, Kathy Westby will be celebrating 25 years with the city of Freeport. She began her employment with the city in 2001 as a telecommunicator in the 911 Center for the Freeport Police Department. During her time at the police department, Kathy has also held the positions of leads coordinator and records clerk, but the majority of her 25 years has been as a telecommunicator.”
    • Source timestamp: 30:58

  • Lucinda Lenore 25th Anniversary Service Award

    • Summary: Lucinda Lenore is recognized for 25 years of service to the city of Freeport as a customer service representative in the water and sewer billing department.
    • Attribution: City of Freeport
    • Evidence: “I also have the honor of recognizing Lucinda Lenore for her 25 years of service to the city of Freeport. Lucinda is also a customer service representative in the water and sewer billing department for all of her 25 years.”
    • Source timestamp: 32:24

  • Upcoming Council Meeting Date Change

    • Summary: Council meeting on Monday, February 16th is President’s Day and will not be held; the next meeting will be on Tuesday the 17th.
    • Attribution: City Manager
    • Evidence: “Also as a reminder, Council Monday, February 16th is President’s Day, so we will not have council meeting on that day. It will be on Tuesday the 17th, just so making sure you don’t show up as the doors will be locked.”
    • Source timestamp: 01:20:35

Other

  • Oath taking for Fire Chief position
    • Summary: Tom Cordy took the oath to support the Constitution of the United States and the State of Illinois as Fire Chief.
    • Evidence: “So if you could raise your hand and repeat after me, I, Tom Cordy, do 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 the Office of Fire Chief according the Best of My Ability.”
    • Source timestamp: 05:05

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