WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:01.960 Good evening. Debbie, could you please give me the invocation? 00:00:08.980 --> 00:00:14.290 Let us pray. 00:00:14.570 --> 00:00:15.610 We've got to turn this on. 00:00:16.730 --> 00:00:17.350 Use the other one. 00:00:17.390 --> 00:00:18.130 Oh, this one. Okay. 00:00:19.590 --> 00:00:20.650 Let us pray. 00:00:21.850 --> 00:00:25.790 Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. 00:00:26.390 --> 00:00:31.930 Unless the Lord protects the city, guarding it with gentries will do no good. 00:00:31.930 --> 00:00:37.670 There is no wisdom or understanding, no counsel that can prevail against the Lord. 00:00:38.450 --> 00:00:45.490 Heavenly Father, we just thank you for our mayor, our department heads, our city manager, and city council members. 00:00:46.270 --> 00:00:53.470 Give them wisdom and clarity as they deliberate on the important issues before them this evening. 00:00:54.050 --> 00:00:59.610 Guide their decisions so they may be just, fair, and in the best interest of our community. 00:00:59.610 --> 00:01:29.590 help them to work together with a spirit of unity and respect for you say how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity you just bestow your blessing among those who live in unity may the city council's actions this evening bring about a positive change in a stronger community for all in Jesus name we pray amen amen thank you Debbie so now we'll officially call this meeting to order madam clerk could you please 00:01:29.590 --> 00:02:03.720 please take the roll. Mayor Miller. Here. Alderpersons, Clemm. Here. Johnson. Here. Simmons is absent. Parker. Here. Stacey. Here. Shadle. Here. Sanders. Here. And Sellers. Here. In Alderpersons, Simmons, absence, Alderman Parker, would you mind leading the pledge? Yes. To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, 00:02:03.880 --> 00:02:06.240 Move the liberty and justice for all 00:02:06.240 --> 00:02:12.820 Item number one is the approval of the agenda 00:02:12.820 --> 00:02:14.500 Is there such a motion? So moved 00:02:14.500 --> 00:02:14.980 Second 00:02:14.980 --> 00:02:19.900 Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers 00:02:19.900 --> 00:02:22.080 All those in favor signify by saying aye 00:02:22.080 --> 00:02:22.740 Aye 00:02:22.740 --> 00:02:23.620 Opposed 00:02:23.620 --> 00:02:25.220 That motion passes 00:02:25.220 --> 00:02:30.840 Item number two is approval of the minutes from the special meeting on October 6th and October 20th, 2025 00:02:30.840 --> 00:02:32.440 Is there such a motion? So moved 00:02:32.440 --> 00:02:32.880 Second 00:02:32.880 --> 00:02:36.720 Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers 00:02:36.720 --> 00:02:47.420 All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? That motion passes. Public comment, I believe that there's no one signed in on public comments, so we'll move on to item number five. 00:02:47.420 --> 00:02:53.850 I was going to say, should we do four first? 00:02:56.790 --> 00:02:58.890 This has been done when it's been done. 00:03:00.030 --> 00:03:04.250 If you ladies are here for this. 00:03:19.580 --> 00:03:25.190 Please reach your right hand and repeat that for me. Hi, Travis Davis. 00:03:25.650 --> 00:03:26.470 Hi, Travis Davis. 00:03:26.470 --> 00:03:53.110 having been appointed as interim chief of police, having been appointed as interim chief of police, in the city of Freeport, in the city of Freeport, in the county of Stevenson, in Solomon Square, that I will support the Constitution of the United States, the Constitution of the State of Illinois, the Constitution of the State of Illinois, and I will be able to discharge with indecent my appointment, and I will be taking my appointment, according to the best of my ability, according to the best of my ability. 00:03:53.110 --> 00:03:54.370 Thank you. 00:03:55.010 --> 00:04:04.850 Okay. 00:04:05.590 --> 00:04:52.880 all right item number five is the consent agenda all the items on the consent agenda are considered to be routine in nature unless there's a member of the council that would like to have something removed for further discussion the consent agenda consists of approving to receive in place on file the board and commission minutes from the board of police and fire commissioners August 12th 2025 and the greater free port partnerships monthly report dated October 2025 also is the approval of the finance bills paid 00:04:52.900 --> 00:05:20.940 payable in the total of $2,989,660.96 and payroll pay period ending October 18th, 2025 in the total of $676,339.83. Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? Parker? Aye. Stacy? 00:05:22.900 --> 00:05:52.740 Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. And Johnson. Aye. The motion passes 7-0. Item number 6 is the first reading of Ordinance 20-25-60. Could you please read this? Ordinance approving an amendment to vehicle lease agreement with the Stevenson County Senior Center doing business as the Senior Resource Center. Thank you. Director Heimer-Digger. Thank you, Madam Mayor. This ordinance updates the city's vehicle lease agreement with the 00:05:52.740 --> 00:06:20.800 Senior Resource Center to reflect two buses that were totaled and subsequently disposed of. The city received insurance settlements totaling $70,452.68, which were deposited into the public transit account for future vehicle procurement as required by IDOT. To maintain the fleet size and service availability, the city also obtained a replacement bus from State Line Mass Transit District. 00:06:20.800 --> 00:06:27.960 The only cost associated with this new bus was the title, registration, minor, maintenance, and branding of the bus 00:06:27.960 --> 00:06:35.360 All of these expenses were fully covered by federal and state grants, resulting in no expense to the city 00:06:35.360 --> 00:06:45.120 This amendment ensures accurate fleet records and continues uninterrupted transit services for residents throughout Freeport and Stevenson County 00:06:45.120 --> 00:06:45.780 Thank you 00:06:45.780 --> 00:06:46.560 Thank you 00:06:46.560 --> 00:06:48.280 Is there a motion to move the coordinates forward? 00:06:48.500 --> 00:06:48.980 So moved 00:06:48.980 --> 00:07:00.960 Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers, discussion on the ordinance, and we will move on to item number seven, which is the adoption 00:07:00.960 --> 00:07:02.420 Madam Mayor, I'm sorry 00:07:02.420 --> 00:07:10.620 I believe we might need to waive the rules for voting on this tonight, is that correct? 00:07:11.580 --> 00:07:12.500 Do we need that? 00:07:13.060 --> 00:07:14.520 I don't think so 00:07:14.520 --> 00:07:14.920 No? 00:07:17.320 --> 00:07:17.880 No? 00:07:18.880 --> 00:07:19.880 Okay, fine 00:07:19.880 --> 00:07:26.000 Let me just, Mayor, may I be recognized, since this is just functionary, I'd discuss with 00:07:26.000 --> 00:07:29.160 some of the aldermen to go ahead and waive the rules tonight and go ahead and move this 00:07:29.160 --> 00:07:29.860 ordinance forward. 00:07:30.800 --> 00:07:34.100 Well, with that, then, I'll entertain a motion to suspend the rules. 00:07:34.340 --> 00:07:34.840 So moved. 00:07:35.220 --> 00:07:35.520 Second. 00:07:36.120 --> 00:07:39.920 We have a suspension of the rules made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 00:07:40.420 --> 00:07:43.360 Suspension of the rules is non-debatable and must pass by a two-thirds majority. 00:07:43.880 --> 00:07:46.800 Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll on the suspension only? 00:07:47.600 --> 00:07:47.960 Parker. 00:07:48.280 --> 00:07:48.640 Aye. 00:07:49.060 --> 00:07:49.380 Stacy. 00:07:49.880 --> 00:08:21.300 Fine. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clemm. Aye. And Johnson. Aye. The motion to suspend passes seven to zero. So then before you is the final reading for this ordinance. If there's no further discussion, Alderman Sanders. Yeah. Could you repeat to the council of that suspension? Again, I didn't get it all. So I just need you. 00:08:21.740 --> 00:08:26.420 You just want to understand the suspension portion of it? 00:08:26.540 --> 00:08:28.140 What you're requesting on the suspension portion. 00:08:30.080 --> 00:08:31.340 Sure, I can answer that. 00:08:32.820 --> 00:08:38.000 Alderman Sanders, I just was asking for a suspension so we could just move forward with some basic business here. 00:08:38.160 --> 00:08:41.040 It happens to be an ordinance, but it is not that. 00:08:41.640 --> 00:08:44.620 We'd like to move forward with it so that we can do other things. 00:08:46.560 --> 00:08:47.920 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:08:48.780 --> 00:08:49.180 Parker. 00:08:49.460 --> 00:08:49.720 Aye. 00:08:50.140 --> 00:08:50.580 Stacey. 00:08:51.740 --> 00:09:21.720 Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clemm. Aye. And Johnson. Aye. And the ordinance passes 7-0. Item number 7 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-128. Could you please read this? Resolution ratifying emergency water main repairs by Fisher excavating on Winchester Court. Thank you. Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. We've had multiple breaks on a section of dead-end section of water main at Winchester Court. I believe there's at least seven breaks already 00:09:21.720 --> 00:09:50.680 and the pipe. One of the reasons you have water main breaks is water hammer and whenever you have a dead end you have the opportunity for water hammer. So when we had this most, we've had two breaks here recently on this section and we went ahead and took the opportunity to connect it to a water main that is just beyond the backyards of the houses on the east side of Winchester Court tying into a larger water main that's on a utility easement. No, I'm sorry. What's that? 00:09:51.720 --> 00:09:53.420 The tie-in's not done yet. 00:09:53.600 --> 00:09:54.720 Oh, the tie-in's, okay. 00:09:55.240 --> 00:09:56.080 I apologize. 00:09:56.560 --> 00:09:59.660 Anyway, this is a repair of that water main. 00:09:59.660 --> 00:10:28.000 this is a repair of that water main and we're going to be looking for opportunity to loop it but in the meantime we would request just ratifying this resolution for the emergency repair. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. The motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the resolution? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. 00:10:28.000 --> 00:10:28.560 Aye 00:10:28.560 --> 00:10:29.380 And Johnson 00:10:29.380 --> 00:10:29.860 Aye 00:10:29.860 --> 00:10:32.340 The resolution is adopted 7-0 00:10:32.340 --> 00:10:38.340 Item number 8 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-129. Could you please read this? 00:10:39.760 --> 00:10:44.460 Resolution ratifying emergency sewer repairs by Fisher Excavating on Shawnee Avenue 00:10:44.460 --> 00:10:45.940 Manager Boyer 00:10:45.940 --> 00:10:57.940 Thank you, Your Honor. Again, Shawnee has been a little bit of a challenge. We have quite a bit of work yet to do out there. During the process, we had some very poor old 00:10:57.940 --> 00:11:27.880 sewer lateral that was underground fairly deep and we had to call in for we had a basically a failure of the sewer while working on the relocation of the gas main. So staff is requesting ratification of this of this emergency repair. Thank you. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Clem. Discussion on the resolution? Mayor. Sure. I'd like to point out 00:11:27.880 --> 00:11:34.160 that Fisher's helped us with this emergency repair, but we plan to file an insurance claim against NICOR 00:11:34.160 --> 00:11:42.060 and their subcontractor for the complete cost of this repair. It was due to the undermining of the sewer and 00:11:42.060 --> 00:11:47.900 the city had some costs in it too. So we're pursuing all the costs that the city has, which is this bill 00:11:47.900 --> 00:11:56.340 plus some city bypass costs as well. Alderman Sellers. I just want to know, does this have anything to do 00:11:56.340 --> 00:12:28.230 with being down there on Shawnee with the Vidoc thing too? Okay. Yes. Anything else? Sorry. Yes, it does. The gas had to be relocated under the Shawnee Vidoc in order to do the water and storm construction that's required to lower the road. So that is why they were working there. Got you. Alderman Sanders? Is that an emergency situation? This sewer was an emergency situation. Sewer was? Yes, because they broke the sewer main and the 00:12:28.230 --> 00:12:42.530 The line that comes down, Shawnee, has significantly high flows, and it filled their trenches completely, and we had to call an emergency crews to pump it back into the sewer, and then we had to bypass it for, I believe it was almost 10 days above ground. 00:12:43.210 --> 00:12:43.870 So this was a- 00:12:43.870 --> 00:12:44.290 Do you want a second? 00:12:44.570 --> 00:12:45.510 I'm sorry. 00:12:45.790 --> 00:12:47.130 Would you like to speak a second time? 00:12:47.310 --> 00:12:47.650 Yeah. 00:12:48.230 --> 00:12:48.850 Alderman Sanders? 00:12:48.850 --> 00:12:53.550 So the damage was caused by who? 00:12:54.710 --> 00:12:55.770 Was it Fisher? 00:12:56.990 --> 00:12:57.510 NICOR. 00:12:57.650 --> 00:12:58.090 NICOR? 00:12:58.230 --> 00:13:29.630 was it caused by their subcontractor subcontractors. So they damaged the, uh, uh, the sewer in the process of, uh, working in that area. Okay. All right. Thanks. There's no further discussion. Madam clerk, please take the roll. Parker. Aye. Stacy. Aye. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. And Johnson. Aye. The motion passes seven to zero. 00:13:29.630 --> 00:13:35.430 Mayor. I forgot to write down the motion in the second. That would have been Shadle Clem. Thank you. 00:13:36.650 --> 00:13:41.350 And item number nine is the adoption of resolution 2025-130. Could you please read this? 00:13:42.130 --> 00:13:48.250 Resolution to approve an agreement with IVS doing business as angel tracks for installation of video 00:13:48.250 --> 00:13:54.370 security systems on Pretzel City Transit buses. Thank you. Director Heimerdinger. Thank you, Madam Mayor. 00:13:54.370 --> 00:14:23.050 The City of Freeport was awarded $65,000 through the 2021 Rebuild Illinois Grant to install video security systems on 16 PCAT buses. The project was bid and approved by council on April 7, 2025 for Ingo Track at a total cost of $41,033.67. IDOT has finally provided pre-award concurrence to proceed. That's why this item is back on here. 00:14:23.050 --> 00:14:28.730 funding is fully covered through the grant and within budget staff recommends the approval of the 00:14:28.730 --> 00:14:33.430 installation of the video cameras in the public transportation vehicles. This project aligns 00:14:33.430 --> 00:14:38.470 with our strategic goal of providing a connected and accessibility community through safe and secure 00:14:38.470 --> 00:14:43.250 public transit for Freeport and the rest of Stevenson County. Thank you. Is there a motion to adopt? 00:14:43.370 --> 00:14:49.750 So moved. Second. A motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the 00:14:49.750 --> 00:15:19.630 resolution. Alderman Stacy? So do I understand you to be saying that there is no cost to the city that is all by IDOT covered? Yes, everything is covered. Yep, that's correct. Alderman Sellers? Yeah, I just like to, is that all the buses or how many? It's 16 of the buses. The other four, so we have 20 fleet, but 00:15:19.750 --> 00:15:37.850 The 16 are the ones that that's what we had when we were doing this grant and going through the work. So that's the ones that have been approved. Okay. And so eventually, we will probably ask, you know, we, we were clearly under budget. So hopefully, this grant comes back, and then we can able to do the next four. Okay. Thank you. 00:15:37.850 --> 00:16:07.770 Alderman Sanders? Yeah, what department monitors the video feeds and records of those feeds and how is it demonstrated to the public on how, because I don't want it to impede upon anybody's rights. Yeah. And I like to see the documentations or councils should see the documentation of the processing of the video and how it's being handled and things 00:16:07.770 --> 00:16:37.710 of that nature. Absolutely, absolutely. When they are installed, they primarily are going to be used for when they're parked. They're parked in an open parking lot, and so we want to make sure that we capture anything that is done when they're not in use. They will probably also be turned on, since you have seen we had two accidents with two of the buses, so this allows us to kind of know what was going on and, you know, just an extra, extra 00:16:37.710 --> 00:16:40.010 Protection for Insurance Purposes as well. 00:16:40.890 --> 00:16:42.330 Olderman Stacy, did you have your hand up? 00:16:43.170 --> 00:16:43.530 Yes. 00:16:43.750 --> 00:16:47.530 So it's video and voice recorded? 00:16:48.370 --> 00:16:50.210 That is a good question. 00:16:50.590 --> 00:16:53.590 I might have to get back to you on that. 00:16:53.750 --> 00:16:57.250 I do believe that it is both. 00:16:58.250 --> 00:16:58.870 Olderman Sanders? 00:16:58.870 --> 00:17:16.690 Yeah, and what agency, I didn't get that response on what agency monitors those feeds, those video feeds, who is conducting that and what department or agency that takes that in? 00:17:16.690 --> 00:17:36.290 Because the buses are, you know, with the Senior Resource Center and, you know, they'll be feeding in there, I think they would have the first priority of monitoring and assessing the cameras and also making sure that everything's working properly and that batteries are in placed when they need to be replaced and everything. 00:17:36.770 --> 00:17:37.030 Okay. 00:17:38.330 --> 00:17:41.370 Anything else? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:17:44.370 --> 00:17:44.890 Parker. 00:17:45.190 --> 00:17:45.450 Aye. 00:17:45.450 --> 00:17:55.230 Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Clem? Aye. And Johnson? Aye. The resolution passes 7-0. 00:17:55.770 --> 00:18:00.930 Item number 10 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-131. Could you please read this? Resolution 00:18:00.930 --> 00:18:05.750 appointing Gertrude Heimerdinger, Director of Community and Economic Development, to serve as 00:18:05.750 --> 00:18:10.630 City's Representative on the Board of Trustees of the Northern Illinois Land Bank Authority. 00:18:11.230 --> 00:18:15.070 Thank you. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. The Northern Illinois Land Bank Authority 00:18:15.070 --> 00:18:45.780 has restored over 41 properties since its creation in 2019. Traditionally, the community and community development director from the city of Freeport is appointed to this board for one of the seats and staff is recommending moving forward having Gertrude Heimerdinger as the city's Freeport representative to the land bank. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers. 00:18:45.780 --> 00:19:23.530 discussion on this resolution. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Parker. Aye. Stacy. No. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. No. Sellers. Aye. Clemm. Aye. And Johnson. Aye. The resolution is adopted 5 to 2. Item number 11 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-132. Could you please read this? Resolution approving payment to Metropolitan Industries for purchase of a water system booster for 00:19:23.530 --> 00:19:24.770 Well House No. 11. 00:19:25.030 --> 00:19:25.730 Manager Boyer. 00:19:26.130 --> 00:19:26.910 Thank you, Your Honor. 00:19:27.670 --> 00:19:42.690 So without getting into too much technical detail, Well 11 has a system that injects a polymer head of the well water that basically grabs any radioactive or radium that's in the water. 00:19:42.770 --> 00:19:44.930 We do have a small amount in the natural water table. 00:19:45.450 --> 00:19:48.670 So it binds with the radium and then it is filtered out. 00:19:48.670 --> 00:19:57.890 Now, this setup is working fine, however, because of the extensively long tubing and piping network 00:19:57.890 --> 00:20:24.280 tubing and piping network that gets it to the filter room. We need to add a carrier water system so that we can move the HMO polymer rapidly through the system and not have it coagulate within the chemical feed piping. So staff is requesting moving forward with the purchase of the SCID system, which includes the pump and the water and that so that we can set that in place and get it working properly. 00:20:26.000 --> 00:20:27.420 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:20:27.580 --> 00:20:28.080 So moved. 00:20:28.460 --> 00:20:28.860 Second. 00:20:30.120 --> 00:20:33.500 We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Clemm. 00:20:33.840 --> 00:20:34.320 Discussion? 00:20:34.960 --> 00:20:36.060 I just have a question. 00:20:36.080 --> 00:20:37.000 Alderman Sellers? 00:20:37.060 --> 00:20:42.700 Yeah, just wanting to know, with that system booster, will we also need one for 12? 00:20:43.280 --> 00:20:53.360 Well, 12 is still under, like, it's, I'm not sure if we're completely done with design, but we will definitely be incorporating carrier water in a pump with HMO if the water quality requires it. 00:20:53.360 --> 00:20:53.880 Oh, okay. 00:20:53.880 --> 00:20:55.960 So, it's a different location. 00:20:56.180 --> 00:20:59.880 It could very well need it, but we'll be paying very close attention to that moving forward. 00:21:00.560 --> 00:21:01.160 One more, Stacy? 00:21:01.640 --> 00:21:09.520 Did we not know or have the understanding that we needed this skid mount when we did well 11? 00:21:12.020 --> 00:21:13.040 Yes, we did. 00:21:13.260 --> 00:21:17.700 We planned that we would need it someday. 00:21:17.700 --> 00:21:47.300 when we first started pumping the well our levels of radium were very low but as we pumped the well and exercised the aquifer those levels increased and as they increased we went ahead and installed the chemical the HMO chemical what we didn't know was that it would plate out inside the chemical feed lines going to the filters and so this this skid mounted pump system will help us to avoid that failure in the future. 00:21:47.700 --> 00:21:59.580 Okay, so would it have been cheaper or more beneficial to have done this from the beginning and not waiting? 00:22:00.960 --> 00:22:17.580 To be honest with you, nobody anticipated this to happen in the chemical feed lines going up to the filters. And even if we had known that, it wouldn't have changed the amount of money that this is. So it would have been the same expense regardless of whether we installed it on the first day. 00:22:17.700 --> 00:22:47.700 or whether we installed it now. Darren? Yeah, I'd just like to add since since the design of the wellhouse treatments there's been changes to the state plumbing guidelines and backflow prevention is required at multiple points throughout these facilities to feed chemicals and just the down and dirty is every time you go through backflow prevention it reduces the water pressure which reduces the scouts 00:22:47.700 --> 00:23:16.420 powering effect that goes when you feed this coagulant. So this is something that we built the well house if it was needed in the future that we'd be able to change. We've been having some maintenance issues that we've had to spend a significant amount of time cleaning these pipes and this system will take care of that permanently. We've we've checked into three different alternates and this is the best method for taking care of all three chemical rooms. 00:23:16.420 --> 00:23:43.520 Currently based on the state plumbing code, I do anticipate this will have to go in well 12 as well, but we can do that at the time we build it now that we kind of know what the pressures in the area are. Until we built the well house and we got the pressures exactly at that property with the depths, it was hard to anticipate if it was a for sure needed thing. So we're trying to respect the process and not buy things we don't need. 00:23:43.520 --> 00:23:45.920 Alderman Sanders? 00:23:46.540 --> 00:24:01.740 Yeah, have we had any incidents with these black backflow preventers? Have we had any incidents with this that is bringing us to our attention at this current time? Are we having any issues is what I'm getting at? 00:24:01.740 --> 00:24:30.560 No, we've had no issues with the backflow preventer. State code requires that they're all tested annually and certified. So it's more of a prevention module to make sure that if something were to happen in the drinking water system, that it can't pull chemicals back out of the building into the drinking water and not have them regulated or monitored on the amount that would be brought back. So it's a good device. It's not something that's been enforced heavily like it has started to be in the last couple of years. 00:24:30.560 --> 00:24:31.660 Alderman Sanders? 00:24:31.660 --> 00:24:51.220 Yeah, well, can we get the data, you say once a year, a data report, can we get the actual data reports on the system that is preventing backflow of chemicals and particles or whatever back into the water system? 00:24:51.220 --> 00:24:56.620 So the data that's provided on the backflow preventer is a physical test. 00:24:56.800 --> 00:25:02.200 You actually have to bring a device to the site and a certified technician has to test that 00:25:02.200 --> 00:25:05.260 and they tag and lock the unit right on site. 00:25:05.360 --> 00:25:10.020 So the tag of certification only exists right there on that unit and it's required to stay there. 00:25:10.300 --> 00:25:12.000 Oh, yeah, thanks. 00:25:13.520 --> 00:25:14.840 There's no further discussion. 00:25:15.140 --> 00:25:16.340 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:25:16.900 --> 00:25:17.260 Parker. 00:25:17.560 --> 00:25:17.800 Aye. 00:25:18.220 --> 00:25:18.660 Stacy. 00:25:19.420 --> 00:25:19.900 Aye. 00:25:19.900 --> 00:25:26.280 Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Clemm, and Johnson. 00:25:26.540 --> 00:25:29.200 The resolution is adopted 7-0. 00:25:29.700 --> 00:25:33.940 Item number 12 is the adoption of Resolution 2025-133. 00:25:34.040 --> 00:25:34.940 Could you please read this? 00:25:35.300 --> 00:25:40.720 Resolution approving agreement with Fair Graham to provide IEPA required sampling for any potential 00:25:40.720 --> 00:25:46.220 soil contamination at the Fuel Island at 1001 North Island Avenue. 00:25:46.560 --> 00:25:47.420 Thank you, Manager Boyer. 00:25:47.560 --> 00:25:48.300 Thank you, Your Honor. 00:25:48.300 --> 00:26:18.280 the city of Freeport recently replaced the fuel island to comply with state codes. Our city fuel island was a former leaking underground storage tank facility categorized by the EPA. When we first started working on the project, they wanted additional soil samples. We were kind of under the time crunch, but they went ahead and let us move forward with the construction. Now we're getting word from them that we now have to go back and do some core sampling for the 00:26:18.300 --> 00:26:48.280 for the actual contaminants that they believe are there. And so we've worked with them, but we have to do core sampling. So it's going to cost approximately $34,000 and we'll be pursuing additional funds, outside funds to cover approximately $5,000 or everything but $5,000. But there is no guarantee that we'll receive those additional funds. So I just wanted to let everyone or make you aware that we'll be doing the work and we'll be submitting 00:26:48.280 --> 00:27:04.760 for reimbursement, and hopefully we will receive that. However, we need to move forward with a project for $34,850 to core sample for, you know, basically contamination underneath the fuel island at Island Avenue. 00:27:05.920 --> 00:27:07.280 Motion to adopt. 00:27:08.240 --> 00:27:08.780 So moved. 00:27:09.080 --> 00:27:09.380 Second. 00:27:09.860 --> 00:27:14.640 Motion made by Alderman Klemmt, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the resolution? 00:27:15.160 --> 00:27:15.800 I just have a question. 00:27:15.820 --> 00:27:16.480 Yeah, Alderman Sellers. 00:27:16.480 --> 00:27:25.380 Yes. Just wondering, where would we get the reimbursement if we did get it? Where would it come from? 00:27:25.880 --> 00:27:34.420 Yeah, so the cleanup program is called LOST, which is Leaking Underground Tanks, and we don't believe that we have them. 00:27:34.420 --> 00:27:43.660 We do quarterly testing on our tanks that proves that they're airtight and they don't leak, but since it was a former cleanup site 00:27:43.660 --> 00:27:49.020 and we did have a couple of parameters on the ground tests that were over the limits. 00:27:49.200 --> 00:27:52.920 They're requiring us to do like a quality assurance to make sure they're not leaking. 00:27:53.200 --> 00:27:56.200 So that's what they're requesting, the new sample. 00:27:56.340 --> 00:27:59.820 So we would apply to the state fire marshal's office. 00:28:00.280 --> 00:28:08.740 They're the ones that control these funds and then they would approve us or deny us for everything but the deductible to move forward with the testing. 00:28:08.740 --> 00:28:32.760 There has been a rule change. I believe it was at the beginning of this year because remember we talked about all the changes that are coming forward with the fuel tanks and that kind of old regime of EPA that kind of understood when you have tanks back in the 70s that leaked, they didn't clean up everything perfectly. They require further testing now and that's a rule. 00:28:32.760 --> 00:28:40.160 So we, I just want everybody to know that we did all of our efforts to try to stop this testing and not do this expense. 00:28:41.040 --> 00:28:48.560 This lust site back when the tanks were replaced was approved for a concrete cap to cap the material in place. 00:28:48.560 --> 00:28:50.240 So that, that is what was done. 00:28:50.400 --> 00:28:55.200 So, but due to the rule change, they're making us go through with the sampling process. 00:28:55.200 --> 00:29:00.140 So there's going to have to be eight cores down to 30 feet below elevation. 00:29:00.140 --> 00:29:22.580 and that's what the cost is along with lab sampling. The reason we set it up on a time and material basis is if we can get it done cheaper, we'll give it done cheaper for the city. We're not trying to, you know, turn this into some profit center or whatever, but the sampling is required and what's not included here in the memo is we have a demand letter from EPA that this has to happen. 00:29:22.580 --> 00:29:24.140 One more question. 00:29:24.300 --> 00:29:24.460 Wow. 00:29:24.520 --> 00:29:25.080 Alderman, Sellers? 00:29:25.300 --> 00:29:25.660 Yes. 00:29:26.080 --> 00:29:33.200 Is this just a one-time thing, or we're going to have to do this sample again next year, or is this just a one-time thing? 00:29:33.220 --> 00:29:40.080 We believe it'll be a one-time thing based on the results, but until we have those in hand, I can't tell you if further testing's going to be better. 00:29:40.600 --> 00:29:41.880 Alderman, Sanders, did you have your hand up? 00:29:42.160 --> 00:29:43.280 Yeah, thank you. 00:29:45.380 --> 00:29:49.860 On the removal, we're talking about the removal of those tanks, am I correct? 00:29:50.680 --> 00:29:51.080 No. 00:29:51.080 --> 00:29:52.620 No, not removals 00:29:52.620 --> 00:29:53.600 Not at this time, no 00:29:53.600 --> 00:29:56.020 So we're just doing a testing to see if we have a 00:29:56.020 --> 00:30:02.820 just doing a testing to see if we have a soil sample issue with leakage is what we're saying, is what you're saying. 00:30:02.820 --> 00:30:15.160 What the demand letter states is that we have to take eight core samples around the existing tanks and the fuel lines leading to the new fuel island that we built to ensure that nothing there is currently leaking. 00:30:15.600 --> 00:30:15.620 Okay. 00:30:15.780 --> 00:30:22.940 And we did pressure test, like I said, we do quarterly pressure testing that we pay for with a third party, and we also, 00:30:22.940 --> 00:30:29.380 dug up that entire site to make sure nothing was leaking before we did it. The original sample that 00:30:29.380 --> 00:30:37.020 came back that was over the limits was near the fuel island that was not replaced back in the 70s and 80s 00:30:37.020 --> 00:30:42.760 when they did the tanks. And you have to remember that, you know, as people fill tanks and stuff and 00:30:42.760 --> 00:30:46.780 you have a little bit of spillage and the concrete's cracked, you're going to have some of those 00:30:46.780 --> 00:30:51.340 constituents go down into the ground in those areas. And that's exactly what we think happened. 00:30:51.340 --> 00:31:01.000 and that's why we applied back to the state not to have to have this expense or do this but it's a new law we have to comply. 00:31:01.380 --> 00:31:05.240 So we're confident that there may not be leakage going on? 00:31:06.560 --> 00:31:13.320 I couldn't say without a shadow of a doubt but I would say that I'm 95% confident we have no leaks on the existing system. 00:31:13.680 --> 00:31:19.560 The dual tanks are pressurized all the time and they've always passed the test which means there's no leaking by the tanks. 00:31:19.560 --> 00:31:20.060 Okay. 00:31:20.420 --> 00:31:21.200 Anyone else? 00:31:21.340 --> 00:31:23.540 Madam Clerk, please take the roll 00:31:23.540 --> 00:31:25.900 Parker 00:31:25.900 --> 00:31:26.460 Aye 00:31:26.460 --> 00:31:27.700 Stacey 00:31:27.700 --> 00:31:28.700 Aye 00:31:28.700 --> 00:31:29.300 Shadle 00:31:29.300 --> 00:31:29.740 Aye 00:31:29.740 --> 00:31:30.500 Sanders 00:31:30.500 --> 00:31:30.900 Aye 00:31:30.900 --> 00:31:31.620 Sellers 00:31:31.620 --> 00:31:31.960 Aye 00:31:31.960 --> 00:31:32.440 Clem 00:31:32.440 --> 00:31:32.860 Aye 00:31:32.860 --> 00:31:33.560 And Johnson 00:31:33.560 --> 00:31:33.920 Aye 00:31:33.920 --> 00:31:36.840 The resolution is adopted 7-0 00:31:36.840 --> 00:31:40.820 Item number 13 is reports of department heads, finance 00:31:40.820 --> 00:31:41.920 Nothing, Your Honor 00:31:41.920 --> 00:31:43.160 Thank you, community development 00:31:43.160 --> 00:31:43.900 Nothing 00:31:43.900 --> 00:31:45.460 Thank you, public works 00:31:45.460 --> 00:31:49.280 Just a couple projects I was asked to give some updates on 00:31:49.280 --> 00:32:19.260 so we're heading towards completion of our streets program for this year the final project should be getting paved this Thursday unless we have some in climate weather it might get pushed today that's 18th Avenue they're prepping right now to final grade so Helms should be paving that at the end of the week the EV charger program that we discussed in past is moving forward anybody that's been down by the municipal lot or the window lot those two 00:32:19.260 --> 00:32:49.240 constructions are going on right now. The intent is to have those constructed primarily, which would not be 100%, but close by the end of November, beginning of December. And we're looking for a what they call live charge, which is when they turn them on sometime in December, probably towards the end of December. So I just, that's the work that's going on there. Now there'll be four EV chargers at both the municipal lot and four at the, we call it the Lindo lot, 00:32:49.260 --> 00:33:19.260 but it's the lot at state and main. One of those at each location will be handicap accessible and they'll all be level three chargers. So they'll be one of the best, if not the best chargers in the area for charging electrical vehicles in a quick amount of time. And we're also doing some advancements to them that if there's only one vehicle charging that you actually get a quicker charge because we're linking two of them together to give them 00:33:19.260 --> 00:33:48.920 more power. So it's kind of a unique novelty that Freeport's doing with these chargers to try and draw more people to Freeport. Finally, I wanted to tell you that the NPDES permit, which is our U.S. EPA discharge permit at the wastewater treatment facility has been issued, just came out last week. It has a lot of new requirements in it, which is very consistent with the rest of the state. And so I believe at the November 00:33:48.920 --> 00:34:18.920 Burkow. We're going to be going over a few of the items that have changed and additional required testing to the waste streams that has to start happening in 2026. Fire. Nothing this evening. Police? Yes, Madam Mayor, I just wanted to give an update for the police department and the records management system. Recently, the police department and the 911 center, along with the county and other agencies within the 00:34:18.920 --> 00:34:48.860 County changed our entire records management system, including the 911 system that tracks and records all 911 calls. It's been a major project. It's taken quite a bit amount of time, but we're slowly working through some of the bugs. With that, I just want to highlight a couple of things. One, we certainly want to get a blotter or list of calls and things out to people that is in the works. Unfortunately, it's 00:34:48.860 --> 00:34:58.660 taking some time because it's not something that our last records management or this record management that they have like an automatic program for us. 00:34:58.680 --> 00:35:00.360 So we have to build the report. 00:35:00.480 --> 00:35:08.180 We have to check that the report doesn't include sensitive information on juveniles, victims, victim addresses, names, things like that. 00:35:08.460 --> 00:35:10.940 So that is in the works and we're working on it. 00:35:10.940 --> 00:35:40.920 I would also like to highlight that in the future part of this new system also is going to have online reporting for the public meaning if you wish to log on to the system you can report things from home say you know you had a lawn ornament stolen or you need to report just for insurance it's kind of a good way for the community to save some time and help our efficiency as well so we look forward to 00:35:40.920 --> 00:35:47.920 eventually being able to utilize all of the new aspects of it, but it is going to take a little bit of time. 00:35:49.040 --> 00:35:49.640 Library? 00:35:50.800 --> 00:36:09.980 Thank you. Before the library went fine-free in early 2025, we hosted a food drive every February called Food for Fines. The staff really wanted to continue hosting a community food drive, so they worked with FACC to create one for the month of November. 00:36:09.980 --> 00:36:39.980 it is a coincidence that it is also aligning with some changes with SNAP benefits so we're happy that we have everything set up and ready to go to take donations. We are doing weekly themes that are themed on requests that FACC has specifically asked for. We're currently in week one which is November 1st through the 8th and we're collecting peanut butter and jelly. Week 00:36:39.980 --> 00:37:07.440 We're collecting macaroni and pasta. And week three is November 16th through the 22nd and we're collecting sauces. And week four, November 23rd through the 30th, we're collecting soup. Obviously, we'll take anything that's not expired or not perishable and we'll make sure that the donations go to organizations that are seeking them, which is a lot right now. 00:37:07.440 --> 00:37:11.440 I.T.? Manager Boyer. 00:37:12.660 --> 00:37:31.480 Thank you, Your Honor. And Darren kind of talked about this briefly, but right now the crews are very busy getting all the prep work done for the chargers down at the municipal lot. We are starting to do leave season a little at a time, but the leave crews should be out in moderation here in the next few days. 00:37:31.480 --> 00:37:38.900 So thank you very much and also keep your eye open on or keep your eye open on the LEAF collection map. 00:37:39.020 --> 00:37:39.680 So thank you. 00:37:40.360 --> 00:37:41.980 And I have nothing new to report. 00:37:42.260 --> 00:37:42.980 Alderman Parker? 00:37:43.340 --> 00:37:44.040 Nothing tonight. 00:37:44.520 --> 00:37:45.080 Alderman Stacy? 00:37:46.400 --> 00:37:46.960 No. 00:37:47.520 --> 00:37:48.080 Alderman Shadle? 00:37:48.820 --> 00:37:56.200 We have a neighborhood watch meeting Thursday, this Thursday, the 6th, Schwartz on Park Boulevard, 6 p.m. 00:37:56.920 --> 00:37:57.520 Alderman Sanders? 00:37:57.940 --> 00:37:58.240 Nothing. 00:37:58.960 --> 00:37:59.600 Alderman Sellers? 00:37:59.600 --> 00:38:17.340 I just want to say thank you to the community development department for their hard work of getting a lot of those dilapidated houses, getting a lot of comments of saying how great it looks in the neighborhoods that have had to look at that for many of years. So thank you. 00:38:17.340 --> 00:38:18.440 Olman, Clemm. 00:38:18.980 --> 00:38:26.280 If I could just take a second to thank our new interim chief that's come aboard. 00:38:26.440 --> 00:38:30.680 We appreciate the work to look forward to what you're going to do and your work coming up. 00:38:30.680 --> 00:38:36.020 If I could just take a minute of your time, it's a time of year for a lot of veterans things, 00:38:36.200 --> 00:38:40.500 and I know these things have not come out until just recently, until late. 00:38:41.360 --> 00:38:45.900 Freeport High School has a veterans program on Monday at 9 o'clock in the cafeteria. 00:38:45.900 --> 00:39:15.900 Area. Freeport Middle School has a veterans program at 8 o'clock on the 11th and Tuesday. Monday, November 10th is a veterans resource fair at the Eagles for all veterans to take part in to see if there's extra benefits and stuff that they could receive. Pearl City is having a ceremony November 5th at 830 with breakfast at 9. Lena is also doing a program and keep in 00:39:15.900 --> 00:39:49.020 Mind, as you thank a veteran during this time, only 1%, less than 1% of the people in the United States have served, and there's about four of them up here at this table. So thank you. Thank you. Olen Johnson. I'd just like to say, if anybody wants to look at some beautiful trees, come to Freeport. The trees around the city are just absolutely beautiful. Moving on to item number 17, which is public comment. Are there any public comments this evening? I'd like to thank the 00:39:49.740 --> 00:39:54.020 Park Board for trimming up all the trees. It looks really nice. 00:39:54.020 --> 00:39:59.400 all the trees. It looks really nice in our park, especially at our corner. We live at the corner of 00:39:59.400 --> 00:40:07.760 Woodside and Park Boulevard, and there is this big bush, looked like a giant bush that was down there 00:40:07.760 --> 00:40:14.840 for years. I just hold my breath as I rounded the corner, and they just started hacking away on it, 00:40:14.840 --> 00:40:21.460 and I couldn't believe it. It was just three scrawny walnut trees that were there. 00:40:22.000 --> 00:40:26.340 I don't know what all those other things were, but now I can see when I go around the corner. 00:40:26.540 --> 00:40:27.460 So I'm very appreciative. 00:40:28.760 --> 00:40:29.540 Anyone else? 00:40:52.830 --> 00:41:01.230 Hi, my name is Sue Cook, Winchester Drive, and I'm here to talk about Operation Feed 45, which 00:41:01.230 --> 00:41:06.650 I think is running adjunct to FACC. 00:41:06.870 --> 00:41:10.710 I love that the library is doing what they're doing, but this is just another add-on so that 00:41:10.710 --> 00:41:17.230 there's more food coming in because the need's going to be great, really great. So we have boxes out right now 00:41:17.230 --> 00:41:25.690 at the Fresh Spot, Nine East, Evangelical Church of Christ, and our neighbors in the north, American 00:41:25.690 --> 00:41:31.150 Family Insurance in Monroe, are actually collecting for Freeport. So I think that's awesome that they're 00:41:31.150 --> 00:41:36.530 doing that for us. So please look out if there are anybody here that has a place that would like to 00:41:36.530 --> 00:42:02.250 to have a donation box. If all the people would like to talk to their constituents at their neighborhood watch meetings and ask to look for Operation 45, Feed 45 boxes, and maybe bring an additional, there might be FACC and this box here, bring that additionally so that you could have one can of soup here, one can of soup there, and one can of soup for the library. 00:42:02.250 --> 00:42:09.570 so there should be enough to spread that around and really help feed Freeport, Stevenson County 00:42:09.570 --> 00:42:15.390 and if Monroe is saying we're willing to help then Stevenson County should be saying okay let's get behind 00:42:15.390 --> 00:42:24.410 this so thank you very much. Any other public comments? And I will entertain a motion for 00:42:24.410 --> 00:42:30.390 adjournment. So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. All those in favor? Aye.