WEBVTT 00:00:00.080 --> 00:00:20.130 Good evening. Linda, could you please give the invocation this evening? Am I on? Are we on? 00:00:23.130 --> 00:00:31.530 Let us bow our heads. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord, O my soul. While we live, we will praise the Lord and sing praises to God while we have our being. 00:00:31.970 --> 00:01:01.970 Father, thank you for our mayor, our city manager, the leaders in this city, and this council. They are all leaders, and they are all servants, serving the people of this community by making decisions that affect our lives. We come to you with gratitude and thank you for being a God of love who is with us in this very room. You never leave us nor forsake us. Your grace will lead us this evening. We thank you for the calling you have placed on these leaders to be good stewards of the finances 00:01:01.970 --> 00:01:31.250 and possessions of this city and to have respect and honor for one another as the business is discussed and decisions are made. We come into this room tonight as complex human beings carrying burdens, carrying joy and hope and trusting that you alone can hold us together in your love and peace. Help us trust you more and lean not on our own understanding. Remove all fears, cancel all animosity and bring your peace as we lean on your everlasting arms to accomplish your purposes 00:01:31.250 --> 00:01:59.290 for this city and all who dwell here. In Jesus' name, amen. Amen. Thank you, Linda. Now we'll officially call this meeting to order. Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? Mayor Miller? Here. Alderpersons, Clemm? Here. Monroe? Here. Simmons is absent. Parker? Here. Stacy? Here. Shadle? Here. Sanders? Here. And Sellers? Here. And if you could please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Sellers. 00:01:59.290 --> 00:02:15.000 I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 00:02:18.880 --> 00:02:28.860 Item number one is the approval of the agenda. However, we will be removing item number 10 and moving it to the cow. Is there a motion for approval of the agenda? 00:02:29.680 --> 00:02:30.160 So moved. 00:02:30.480 --> 00:02:30.720 Second. 00:02:30.720 --> 00:03:05.660 Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes. Could you please note that at 6.02 Alderman Simmons joined the meeting. Item number two is the approval from the minutes from the regular meeting on December 16th, 2024. Is there such a motion? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Clem. All those in favor? 00:03:05.660 --> 00:03:46.100 first signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes. Public comment? We have two that are on agenda topics for this evening. Rhonda Scott, if you would like to have three minutes. Hello, I'm Rhonda Scott. I'd like to comment, really ask some questions before you consider resolution number 13, which has something to do with police health employment or employment health plan. 00:03:46.920 --> 00:04:16.900 I read the notes on this and it was something about some contract had been negotiated and it wasn't clear what happened is when I read the memo I had a whole lot of questions like first of all what do you mean police officers are getting a pension and we're paying for their health insurance like shouldn't they be paying for their health insurance so I looked at what other cities were doing and when I looked up Rockford and Chicago the officers there if they retire 00:04:16.920 --> 00:04:46.900 They're under the age of 55, the city contributes nothing. They are allowed to participate in the city's health care plan, but the officers have to pay out of their own pockets. Then once they are 55, they have the option of staying in the city plan, and in Rockford, the city contributes 50%, the officer contributes the rest out of their pocket, and in the city of Chicago, the officers are required to 00:04:46.900 --> 00:05:16.780 contribute 3.5% of their annuity. I'm not sure what that amount is. I'm just passing this information on to you just because the memo, it's asking you to approve a resolution which you probably have no idea what it means. And so I would like for you to ask some questions and find out exactly what are we paying for retired officers, health insurance. Is this a standard? I know most people, the industry standard is when you retire, 00:05:16.780 --> 00:05:43.580 after working at a company for 30 years, you go out and get your own insurance, and you go out and you pay for it with your 401k, you don't have, you know, the company paying for it, so I hate to be negative, but it just seems like we should run a city like a business, we have a business manager, we should be running it like a business, we should be aware of costs, and I would ask for you respectfully to look at the cost of what we're paying, and ask some questions, please, thank you. 00:05:43.580 --> 00:06:26.740 Next is Akia Sanders How are you doing? My name is Akia Sanders. I wanted to speak on item number five, reappointing Steve Cox. I don't believe he should be a reappointed. From November 19th, he actually assisted Wayne Duckman in illegally knocking down one of my my residents. From what I understand not to be even approved by council to get knocked down. And I just don't think he should be reappointed at this time. Okay, now we can move on to item number four, which is the consent agenda. 00:06:26.760 --> 00:06:33.120 The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion unless a member of the council would like to have something removed for further discussion. 00:06:33.640 --> 00:06:56.500 Seeing nothing, we will approve to receive and place on file the minutes from the boards and commission meetings from the Foreign Fire Insurance Board dated October 10, 2024, the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners from October 25th and 26, 2024, Greater Freeport Partnerships Monthly Report dated December 18, 2024, 00:06:56.500 --> 00:07:25.600 for the National Day of Racial Healing Proclamation, approval of finance bills payable in the total of $4,466,436, the approval of payroll for pay period ending December 14th, 2024, in the total of $657,123.22, as well as payroll for December 28th, 2024, in the total of $668,168.88. 00:07:25.600 --> 00:07:56.510 Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda? So moved. Second. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Clem. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? Sellers? Aye. Clem? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? Aye. And Sanders? Aye. The motion is approved 8-0. Thank you. 00:07:56.510 --> 00:08:02.190 item number five is appointments. Could you please read those? Reappointment of Patrick McDermott to the 00:08:02.190 --> 00:08:08.110 board of the Northwest Illinois Enterprise Zone for a three-year term effective through December 31st, 00:08:08.150 --> 00:08:13.110 2027, and the reappointment of Steve Cox to the board of the Northwest Illinois Enterprise Zone 00:08:13.110 --> 00:08:19.770 for a three-year term effective through December 31st, 2027. Thank you. Is there a motion to reappoint 00:08:19.770 --> 00:08:26.490 these? Yes. So moved. I would like to make a motion that we divide these up. Sure. Okay. 00:08:26.510 --> 00:08:57.420 So we'll start with the first one, Patrick McDermott. Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion? Yes. Thank you, Madam Mayor. This question goes to the community development. Do we know if Mr. McDermott has registered all of his rental properties here in the city of Freeport? I'm not sure. I'd have to look into that for you. 00:08:57.860 --> 00:09:02.240 Any other discussion? 00:09:04.820 --> 00:09:05.880 Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:09:08.200 --> 00:09:09.800 Sellers? Aye. 00:09:10.260 --> 00:09:11.700 Clem? Aye. Monroe? 00:09:12.700 --> 00:09:13.960 No. Simmons? 00:09:14.440 --> 00:09:16.200 No. Parker? Aye. 00:09:16.580 --> 00:09:18.900 Stacy? No. Shadle? Aye. 00:09:19.400 --> 00:09:20.600 And Sanders? No. 00:09:21.520 --> 00:09:25.000 We are tied at 4-4. Madam Mayor, what say you? 00:09:25.420 --> 00:09:30.060 Aye. And McDermott is appointed 5-4. 00:09:30.860 --> 00:09:33.620 And then next would be the reappointment for Steve Cox. 00:09:33.620 --> 00:09:59.970 Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. The motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadle. Discussion? Alderman Monroe. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'd like to make a motion that we move this to the next regularly scheduled meeting based on the fact that Mr. Cox is involved in negotiations and 00:09:59.970 --> 00:10:09.340 negotiations and advisement with the current city manager petition that's going around. 00:10:10.780 --> 00:10:16.800 What does that have to do with this enterprise zone? It has everything to do with it, Madam Mayor. 00:10:19.060 --> 00:10:22.420 Okay, so that was a motion to move it? Yes. Second. 00:10:23.460 --> 00:10:29.660 So a motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Stacy. Any discussion on moving it to the cow? 00:10:29.940 --> 00:10:57.560 I have, I have, yeah, wouldn't we want our attorney on the enterprise zone board? I'm just asking, because I don't know. He's sat on it for many years, there's a wealth of interest. I don't know, I'm just trying to figure out what is it, why we wouldn't want an attorney, you know, on the enterprise zone. I know we had one complaint, but I still just want to know, is it. I don't want this to be my second. 00:10:57.560 --> 00:11:01.220 I'll make, I'll respond, but I don't want it to be my second 00:11:01.220 --> 00:11:04.360 That's up to you 00:11:04.360 --> 00:11:06.380 Okay, then I won't, I'm good 00:11:06.380 --> 00:11:07.860 I just want to know 00:11:07.860 --> 00:11:10.700 Madam Mayor, could you repeat what the motion was? 00:11:11.020 --> 00:11:17.020 That the appointment of Steve Cox to the Enterprise Zone be moved to the, how? 00:11:17.460 --> 00:11:20.200 No, next regularly scheduled meeting 00:11:20.200 --> 00:11:21.620 January 21st, okay 00:11:21.620 --> 00:11:21.880 Yes 00:11:21.880 --> 00:11:29.430 Okay, so if there's no further discussion on the moving 00:11:29.430 --> 00:11:35.150 that. Madam Clerk, would you please take the role on moving it to the next meeting, the next regularly scheduled meeting? 00:11:35.150 --> 00:11:56.650 Sellers? Aye. Clem? No. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? No. Stacy? Aye. Shadle? No. And Sanders? Aye. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. It will be moved to the 00:11:56.650 --> 00:12:05.150 January 21st council meeting by a vote of four to three. It should be five to three. Five to three, thank you. 00:12:06.910 --> 00:12:13.630 Okay, next is recognition of service awards. Manager, where? I would have to acknowledge the fire chief on this one. 00:12:14.250 --> 00:12:27.280 Yes, thank you. So it's my pleasure to introduce firefighter paramedic Kevin Meads. Here we're 00:12:27.280 --> 00:12:57.080 recognizing his five-year anniversary with the department. He comes to us from Winnebago, and his hire date was January 13, 2020, so he's almost five years to date. Some of the certifications and documents that he holds in his position is basic firefighter operations, advanced firefighter technician, paramedic, fire service vehicle operator, fire service instructor, 00:12:57.080 --> 00:13:26.720 and then several technical rescue classes consisting of structural collapse, confined space, VMO or vehicle machinery operations and rope operations and technician level. He's currently a member of the Mavis technical rescue team, meaning he can respond anywhere within the county and also outside the county on special request through Mavis. He is also a member of the department's Thames team, the technical emergency paramedics that 00:13:26.720 --> 00:13:29.740 also assist with the police department. 00:13:31.260 --> 00:13:36.560 So, and then lastly, he's currently working on his associate's degree in fire science through Rock Valley College. 00:13:36.860 --> 00:13:37.060 Ah. 00:13:37.460 --> 00:13:42.440 So, with that, I'd like to present Kevin with this certificate of five years, and congratulations. 00:13:52.300 --> 00:13:56.300 I also want to add that half the room here is his family that's come to join him this evening. 00:13:56.300 --> 00:14:02.100 And we also make the microphone available to him to speak to his family and then viewing audience. 00:14:02.100 --> 00:14:10.470 I appreciate the opportunity to work in this city. It's been an awesome experience for me. I've learned 00:14:10.470 --> 00:14:17.070 so much. I've gotten to meet the wonderful residents of the city and had a good time doing it with all my 00:14:17.070 --> 00:14:29.140 friends. Thank you so much. Thank you. We'll move on to item number seven, which is the second reading of 00:14:29.140 --> 00:14:35.280 Ordinance 2025-01. Could you please read this? This was formally Ordinance 2024-86 from last year, 00:14:35.280 --> 00:14:40.760 amending airplane hangar fees at Freeport-Albertus Airport and adopting revised hangar lease form. 00:14:41.760 --> 00:15:00.360 Thank you. Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. We've gone over this at several meetings. We're requesting council move forward with the new lease format and the new rental rates for J-Hanger. So staff requests approval of this at second reading. 00:15:01.960 --> 00:15:05.330 Discussion? Alderman Stacy? 00:15:06.690 --> 00:15:18.260 I want to be sure, this is talking about 61 hangers? 00:15:21.820 --> 00:15:36.720 This is a new lease agreement, and the hangar rate adjustment is for J hangers, so we've recommended no changes at this time, except for J hangers, to increase that to $800 a month. 00:15:50.860 --> 00:15:51.940 Any further discussion? 00:15:52.520 --> 00:15:53.280 Alderman Mineral. 00:15:53.280 --> 00:16:14.780 Thank you, Madam Mayor. So, City Manager Boyer, the rates for the hangars that have working water and other amenities, I would call them, I guess, those hangar prices aren't changing? 00:16:14.780 --> 00:16:25.720 Manager, Boyer, we have had the airport manager review all the hangar rates compared them to other 00:16:25.720 --> 00:16:32.140 communities of our similar size and traffic and she has recommended that we do not right now our rental 00:16:32.140 --> 00:16:48.200 rates are in line with other communities of a similar size can you can you tell me who is the owner of 00:16:48.200 --> 00:17:15.940 Hanger, Jay, The City of Freeport. I think she means lessee. Who's renting it? There's a tenant in there currently, not from Freeport, but recently was approved to move in there. So council approved the last one. I don't want to call it off the top of my head. 00:17:28.540 --> 00:17:37.200 Alderman Parker. Motion to approve. Oh, I don't need it. Okay. If discussion is done, Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:17:37.240 --> 00:17:49.540 Sellers, Aye, Clemm, Aye, Monroe, Aye, Simmons, Aye, Parker, Aye, Stacey, Aye, Shadle, Aye, and Sanders, Aye, the ordinance passes 8-0. 00:17:50.460 --> 00:17:54.260 Item number 8 is first reading of ordinance 2025-02. Could you please read this? 00:17:54.600 --> 00:18:05.160 Ordinance authorizing Northern Illinois Gas Company, doing business as NICOR Gas Company, to construct, operate, and maintain a gas distributing system in and through the city of Freeport. 00:18:05.160 --> 00:18:35.140 Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. About every 50 years, the city has an opportunity to reenter or renew their enterprise agreement with NICOR gas. This has recently come up and was negotiated essentially the same terms as we have had in the past. However, we've also negotiated free terms for the Freeport Library. It's one of our larger gas-using facilities, and I think that will save 00:18:35.140 --> 00:19:08.360 the city somewhere approximately $70,000 a year. Correction, it'll save the library $70,000. Motion to approve. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Sellers to move ordinance 20-2502 onto the next meeting. Is there discussion? Move on to item number nine, which is the first reading of ordinance 20-2503. Could you please read this? 00:19:10.830 --> 00:19:36.650 This was formally ordinance 2024-85 from last year, adopting social media policy governing use of city-owned social media accounts. Thank you. Director Bridge. Good evening, council. Good evening, mayor. We spoke about this at December's Cal. Since 2017, the city has managed social media pages for city postings, information, and more. 00:19:36.650 --> 00:19:57.970 A social media policy for all staff has been in place to set guidelines for personal use but has yet to set guidelines for page administrators. In addition, public comment on city pages has been limited since 2017. In order to improve transparency and strengthen the communication pipeline between the city and residents 00:19:57.970 --> 00:20:25.980 As the city's statement of purpose in the policy reads the city of Freeport believes that the use of social media platforms can effectively broaden the reach of government communication to its constituents. The use of social media by the city is to convey or obtain information that is useful to or will further the goal of the city of Freeport. 00:20:26.000 --> 00:20:56.240 The revised policy also outlines important guidelines for page administrators to ensure discourse remains informational and appropriate. This is the first reading tonight, but in the end, we recommend that the council approves this policy. Thank you. Is there a motion to move this forward? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion? Alderman Sanders? 00:20:56.240 --> 00:20:59.600 Do I understand 00:20:59.600 --> 00:21:04.240 that there's no administrator at this point in time? 00:21:05.500 --> 00:21:06.300 Is that what you're... 00:21:06.300 --> 00:21:12.320 There is an administrator for the city, an administrator for the police, an administrator for the fire, 00:21:12.320 --> 00:21:18.860 and the library, and the communications director, which is myself, also administrates all pages. 00:21:19.340 --> 00:21:23.940 So who is supervising that media page? 00:21:23.940 --> 00:21:33.580 So the media page that you are probably referring to is Facebook, and the administrator for the city is myself, the communications director 00:21:33.580 --> 00:21:42.100 So you're the sole person that is managing the website 00:21:42.100 --> 00:21:50.380 For the most part, I am the sole person, however, there are other people who have access to it that, in times of need, are able to post 00:21:50.380 --> 00:22:09.600 So, how many administrators can you have at one time, or not at just one time, but at the council's discretion, the city's discretion, to have privy information to enter into those administrative areas? 00:22:09.600 --> 00:22:41.040 I don't think there is a limit that Facebook or Meta puts on their site however within this policy the branch that we are adopting is city manager oversees the administrators so ultimately discretion discretion falls on city manager city manager but that does not mean the city manager posts nor comments 00:22:41.040 --> 00:23:05.760 I just want to see how it's operated and the mission and goals of the website and what is this protocol. I would like to see that because we all need to see the protocol of that website and how it's going to be governed. 00:23:06.160 --> 00:23:09.760 And that's an excellent point that you make and that is exactly what this policy does. 00:23:09.760 --> 00:23:34.660 Okay. All right. Thank you. Any further discussion? Alderman Monroe. Thank you, Madam Mayor. This is a topic that's come up quite a bit across the country. The Supreme Court, many of you may or may not know, recently ruled on this back in 2024, and it actually would put the city, in my opinion, at greater risk of a lawsuit. 00:23:34.660 --> 00:24:04.640 Social media itself has tools that have been designed across all platforms to report posts that go against community standards and I don't believe in a lot of ways this is creating any transparency. In a lot of ways it's creating a lack of transparency because it allows city officials and staff to block comments that they find divisive based on their 00:24:04.640 --> 00:24:10.860 viewpoints. It could be religious, it could be social, it could be whatever it might be. But in a 00:24:10.860 --> 00:24:17.980 general scheme of the First Amendment, we're given those rights to speak out. And the problem is this 00:24:17.980 --> 00:24:24.240 may be well-intentioned. But in a lot of ways, this is the rabbit hole that once you open it, doesn't get 00:24:24.240 --> 00:24:33.220 applied appropriately. And with so many people having access to this, the citizens don't know who's 00:24:33.220 --> 00:25:03.200 blocking them. It could be the city manager who disagrees with somebody who doesn't like what he's doing with the roads. That doesn't mean what they posted was wrong or incorrect or inflammatory or anything else. It just means that they spoke out and they voiced their opinion in a community forum. And I think it's a very, very dangerous path to go down to allow any member of the city staff to block. And, you know, I know the police department does it regularly. 00:25:03.220 --> 00:25:28.360 they turn off posts, they turn off things, when people would even make comments encouraging them and saying they've done a great job. But as citizens, we've got a responsibility as well, but I think as all of us here on this council and as staff have a responsibility to the citizens to protect their right to speak out in the public forum. 00:25:28.360 --> 00:25:58.220 and I will say this, the government could completely change and the other party is in power and the ability to block posts becomes something that now the people that supported it would be against and I think it's a very dangerous path to take when you start messing with First Amendment because it is really our ability as citizens to speak out and we've seen in the last, today as a matter of fact, 00:25:58.360 --> 00:26:28.340 the city city officials trying to block people from speaking out. And I think that this just gives another avenue for that to happen. And I really believe strongly this should not go through. I hope the citizens will call and speak up and say that they feel it shouldn't go through. But our first amendment here in the United States is the foundation for what all of our society is built on. And if we don't have the ability to speak out and we have a few people who are trying to 00:26:28.340 --> 00:26:32.480 control that speech from the government level. That is a horrible, horrible thing. 00:26:33.980 --> 00:26:34.820 Director Bridge. 00:26:36.380 --> 00:26:51.340 Alderman Monroe, I understand your perspective because we have heard it within City Hall that, hey, we need to be prepared to not use too much of our opinion, right? 00:26:51.340 --> 00:27:19.040 So I totally understand your perspective. And I won't say that you are entirely wrong. However, this policy does lay out really good guidelines to keep us from having one head of power. We have to understand that posts that attack a person are not going to be blocked because of this policy. 00:27:19.040 --> 00:27:49.020 We don't have a policy right now. So those comments can get blocked. So technically we are not having good transparency right now. So I understand your perspective. I still would say let's see what this policy can do for us because I know what goes on at City Hall. We are trying our best to represent the residents of Freeport. Right now we're not doing that as well as we can be 00:27:49.020 --> 00:28:23.790 doing if we had this policy in place. Alderman Sanders. Yeah, I have an understanding what the Alderman Monroe is saying and I also feel there's not enough detail as he is explaining for transparency and I think before we initiate any movement 00:28:24.170 --> 00:28:48.450 on this particular ordinance, that we do a due diligence of evaluation of this particular ordinance, because you're giving some form of speculation, your perspective and opinion. 00:28:48.450 --> 00:29:18.430 we need to see things that you are actually speaking on in writing how we look at it from a different perspective viewpoint when it's in writing and then we can probably move forward because not only that you're setting up a policy but you got to remember the public the council the administrative staff of this city hall also have input on 00:29:18.450 --> 00:29:44.650 on certain things and guidelines. So I don't want everything to be narrowed from your perspective and how things should be written and how things should go. So what we're saying is we need more of a dialogue about how you plan to do this operation and what we can insert with you or not go forward with certain things that you're referring to. 00:29:44.650 --> 00:29:55.970 In other words, we need to be able to talk on everything, even with comments from the general public, we need to be able to bring those 00:29:55.970 --> 00:30:09.420 We need to be able to bring those things forth. I understand the concerns. There is a big concern here. And let us move cautiously with all of that. 00:30:10.840 --> 00:30:19.740 Just in case you weren't aware, in your packet, there's seven pages in writing on this policy. There's seven pages. Director Bridge. 00:30:19.740 --> 00:30:46.320 So I'll say a couple things. Number one, we did talk about this at the Committee of the Whole. There was no discussion. There was nothing from council members. So if there had been something from council members, and that is not to blame anyone on this floor, but I wish that some discussion would come. And that is why this is a first reading so that we can have those kinds of talks. 00:30:46.320 --> 00:31:16.300 Second thing. Let me read from section three of the social media policy in case someone doesn't have it in front of them. Social media platforms not only provide the government with a communications venue, but often allow for public comment to be posted to the city's sites. Any comment made by a member of the public as a social media user is that user's opinion only. Publication of the comment does not imply endorsement or agreement by the government, nor reflect the opinions or policies of the government. 00:31:16.320 --> 00:31:46.300 Lawsies of the Government. The following enumerated list of content may not be permitted on the city's social media platforms, and such content is subject to removal and or restriction by the administrator. Content that promotes discrimination, violates a legal ownership interest, such as a copyright or trademark, threatens any person or organization, includes personally identifiable information, such as a social security number or other sensitive information, 00:31:46.320 --> 00:32:15.840 Sensitive Information, Violates any Federal, State, or Local Law, or Encourages Illegal Activity, Is Obscene, Sexual, or Pornographic in Content and or Language, Promotes Commercial Activities not Related to Government Business, Is Spam, or Links to Malware or Viruses, or Discloses Confidential Government Information, Sensitive Information, or Personal Information Relating to Government Officials and Employees or Members of the Public. And lastly, before I turn it back over, 00:32:16.320 --> 00:32:44.960 If you are in City Hall walking alongside me, you know what kind of person I am, and I'm not one who makes decisions by myself. Though the communications department is a one-person thing, I do not make decisions by myself. The city manager does not make decisions by himself. He and I do not make decisions by ourselves. It is a team effort here, and that is why this is on the floor before you. 00:32:46.320 --> 00:32:47.640 Manager, Boyer, did you want to say something? 00:32:48.440 --> 00:32:49.240 No, I'm good. 00:32:49.600 --> 00:32:49.800 Okay. 00:32:50.460 --> 00:32:51.360 Any further discussion? 00:32:51.640 --> 00:32:52.160 Alderman Monroe. 00:32:52.540 --> 00:32:53.420 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 00:32:54.380 --> 00:32:56.360 Thank you for reading that, Director. 00:32:56.840 --> 00:32:59.620 You know, you bring up a couple of really good points. 00:33:00.120 --> 00:33:01.120 I'm going to go through them. 00:33:01.160 --> 00:33:02.300 Promotes discrimination. 00:33:02.660 --> 00:33:04.120 Define discrimination for me. 00:33:04.420 --> 00:33:05.660 That's a gray area, Mr. 00:33:05.660 --> 00:33:06.300 Thank you. 00:33:06.720 --> 00:33:07.160 Exactly. 00:33:07.960 --> 00:33:10.240 Part number six. 00:33:11.220 --> 00:33:15.760 I think we all know what obscene sexual and pornographic content is, but explain to me what 00:33:15.760 --> 00:33:45.380 that language is. That's a gray area, Mr. Monroe. Thank you. Once again, here we are going down a rabbit hole, what you consider to be obscene, what the city manager of the mayor considers obscene, the Supreme Court says is free speech. And those are things that you're taking into your powers as a government official and applying those to individuals in the community. That limits the communication and the ability of those citizens to stand up 00:33:45.380 --> 00:33:52.320 and voice their opinions about how the city is doing. And this is where it comes. There was recently, 00:33:52.320 --> 00:33:58.960 within the last six months, a gentleman who walked into a city council meeting, started swearing, much like 00:33:58.960 --> 00:34:07.160 my buddy beside me here did at me a few weeks ago, and he was arrested because the police chief and the 00:34:07.160 --> 00:34:12.740 sheriff said it's not allowed. Well, guess what happened two weeks later? His lawyer and he came 00:34:12.740 --> 00:34:42.720 came back to the room and they served them papers. The city paid $50,000 for violating their constitutional rights. This is where this is going. And the problem is, you want me to trust you. I don't trust people easily because I've seen what's happened with behavior behind closed doors in this building. And all of a sudden, now you're coming here in front of this forum, the people that represent the citizens of free 00:34:42.720 --> 00:34:50.320 Report, and you want to take away those people's rights to speak, and that is a major problem anywhere in the United States of America. 00:34:52.990 --> 00:34:53.710 Director Bridge. 00:34:53.970 --> 00:35:00.370 Only thing I'll say to that is this is not taking away. We are taking away right now. This is adding to what they can say. 00:35:02.090 --> 00:35:09.680 If there's no further discussion, move on to the next item. Thank you, Director Bridge. 00:35:10.740 --> 00:35:17.320 We'll move on to item number 11, which is the adoption of Resolution 2025-02. Could you please read this? 00:35:17.620 --> 00:35:24.260 Resolution approving memorandum of understanding with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for response to calls for service. 00:35:24.400 --> 00:35:25.780 Thank you. Chief Shenberger. 00:35:27.080 --> 00:35:35.940 The United States Department of Veterans Affairs operates a facility within the city of Freeport at 750 South Kiwanis Drive. 00:35:36.740 --> 00:35:43.020 The VA is requesting the city of Freeport to enter in an MOU regarding the response to calls for service at the VA. 00:35:43.020 --> 00:35:49.400 This MOU will be effective upon signature and the date will be reviewed every three years 00:35:49.400 --> 00:35:53.290 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:35:53.770 --> 00:35:54.290 So moved 00:35:54.290 --> 00:35:55.090 Second 00:35:55.090 --> 00:35:59.950 Motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers 00:35:59.950 --> 00:36:01.650 Discussion on the resolution? 00:36:05.050 --> 00:36:06.890 Seeing none, Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? 00:36:07.330 --> 00:36:07.770 Sellers 00:36:07.770 --> 00:36:08.250 Aye 00:36:08.250 --> 00:36:08.850 Clem 00:36:08.850 --> 00:36:09.290 Aye 00:36:09.290 --> 00:36:09.810 Monroe 00:36:09.810 --> 00:36:10.350 Aye 00:36:10.350 --> 00:36:11.090 Simmons 00:36:11.090 --> 00:36:12.370 Aye 00:36:12.370 --> 00:36:13.650 Parker 00:36:13.650 --> 00:36:14.270 Aye 00:36:14.270 --> 00:36:15.010 Stacey 00:36:15.010 --> 00:36:16.210 Aye 00:36:16.210 --> 00:36:16.850 Shadle 00:36:16.850 --> 00:36:17.250 Aye 00:36:17.250 --> 00:36:24.270 Sanders is currently absent. The resolution is adopted 7-0. Item number 12 is the adoption of 00:36:24.270 --> 00:36:30.070 resolution 2025-03. Could you please read this? Resolution approving invoice from Stevers Ford for 00:36:30.070 --> 00:36:35.290 upfitting for three new squad vehicles. Thank you. Chief Shenberger. The Freeport Police Department is 00:36:35.290 --> 00:36:41.890 currently in need of purchasing and replacing three squad cars. The squad cars will replace F2, which is 00:36:41.890 --> 00:37:11.290 F-5, a 2021 Dodge Durango with about 75,000 miles, F-5, a 2021 Dodge Durango with about 90,000 miles, and F-6, a 2022 Ford Explorer with 75,000 miles. All three squad cars are currently utilized by the patrol division. On December 16th, 2024, the council approved squad bid submitted by Stivers Ford in Waukee, Iowa at $48,190 for each for three 00:37:11.290 --> 00:37:40.630 2025 Ford Explorer Police Interceptors for a total of $144,570,000. Minus $19,000 to trade in the four older squad cars, the total cost to purchase the three new squad cars will be $125,570. During subsequent conversations with Stivers Ford, the salesmen agreed to discount the squad cars by $500 each, 00:37:40.630 --> 00:37:48.850 which ended up being a total of $124,070, which includes the $19,000 deduction for trade-ins. 00:37:50.190 --> 00:37:56.710 Stivers Ford also submitted a bid to upfit the three Mark squad cars. Stivers Ford upfitted the squad cars 00:37:56.710 --> 00:38:01.930 purchased by the police department in 2024 and the work performed was very efficient and high quality. 00:38:01.930 --> 00:38:11.730 The cost to upfit the two Ford Explorers from Dodge Durango's will be $8,375 each 00:38:11.730 --> 00:38:17.550 The cost to upfit the third Ford Explorer Police Interceptor will be $7,372 00:38:17.550 --> 00:38:25.990 So the total cost to upfit all three vehicles will be $148,192 00:38:25.990 --> 00:38:57.950 The funding for the three new squad cars and upfitting is provided in the fiscal year 2025 police department capital budget 331-302-7005. Thank you. Is there a motion to adopt? Motion to adopt, Mayor. Second. Okay, motion made by Alderman Monroe, seconded by Alderman Parker. Discussion on the resolution? Seeing none, oh, I'm sorry, Alderman Stacy. Yes, I just have a question and it may be 00:38:57.970 --> 00:39:27.330 was spoken of the first time. I just do not remember. And I would just like to know why did we why Iowa? Why not our Ford dealership right here in good old Freeport? Couldn't we get the discounts and all the extra right here? 00:39:27.970 --> 00:39:28.810 You know 00:39:28.810 --> 00:39:42.870 I would agree with that, but we did post the bid, and we had only one full response, and that was from Stivers in Iowa, and we had one incomplete response, which was out of Detroit, Michigan 00:39:42.870 --> 00:39:48.290 Thank you, Madam Mayor 00:39:48.290 --> 00:39:53.770 Chief, there are only a few dealerships within, say, 400 miles of here that 00:39:53.770 --> 00:40:17.050 say 400 miles of here that sell these type of vehicles? Is that true or not? Well, I mean, there's probably more dealerships. I don't know. I mean, you can, you know, we've bought them locally before, but like I said, we posted the bid and we only had one complete response, so. There's no further discussion. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:40:18.710 --> 00:40:26.270 Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. Monroe. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye. Stacey. Aye. 00:40:26.290 --> 00:40:54.990 Aye. Shadle. Aye. And Sanders. Aye. The resolution is adopted 8-0. Item number 13 is the adoption of resolution 20-2504. Could you please read this? Resolution approving memorandum of understanding with paternal order of police regarding post-employment health plan or PEP. Thank you. Manager Boyer. Madam Mayor. Chief. Sure. So before we get into this memo, I just want to clarify something 00:40:54.990 --> 00:41:23.550 that was brought up, this is by no means, this is not post-employment health insurance, once you separate, you don't have health insurance unless you participate in the COBRA, so this is just a savings account, a medical savings account that the city was contributing to, but during the recent negotiations with the FOP, they got rid of the PEP plan, so this is to consider three people who had this benefit 00:41:23.550 --> 00:41:35.430 throughout their entire career, and then during discussions with the union, it was suggested that they would be allowed to have that during this next contract. 00:41:35.430 --> 00:41:53.390 So in a prior version of the collective bargaining agreement between the city of Freeport and the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, employees were entitled to a post-employment health plan, a PEP plan, to help fund health insurance costs post-employment. 00:41:53.550 --> 00:42:23.530 The current CBA between the city and ILFOPLC no longer includes this benefit. At the time, the current CBA was negotiated. Three employees either reached or will reach 20 years of service during the current agreement, qualifying them for the at-retirement portion of the previous PEP provisions. Patrolman Brandy Hillby, she reached 25 years of service in October of 2024. Patrolman Eric Diemer will reach 20 years of service in September of 2025. 00:42:23.550 --> 00:42:28.710 and Patrolman Tony Bradbury will reach 20 years of service in October of 2027. 00:42:29.590 --> 00:42:53.150 In recognition of the years of service, the officers and as part of the agreement reach with the ILFOPLC, the city desires to extend the specific at retire provisions from the former section 11.7 to these three officers. 00:42:53.550 --> 00:43:04.750 So if one of these three officers chooses to retire during the current ILFOPLC CBA, the following language will be applicable and honored at the time of retirement. 00:43:05.410 --> 00:43:15.190 Effective upon the retirement of an officer with 20 or more years of employment with the city, the city shall contribute to the employee's post-employment health plan, 00:43:15.190 --> 00:43:28.850 a health care premium sub-account, an amount equal to $4 for every hour of unused sick time accumulated during the employee's 10-year service, up to a maximum of $5,556. 00:43:29.770 --> 00:43:34.890 Is there a motion to adopt? 00:43:35.550 --> 00:43:36.150 So moved. 00:43:37.370 --> 00:43:40.430 A motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Parker. 00:43:41.390 --> 00:43:43.430 Any discussion on the adoption? 00:43:44.230 --> 00:43:44.810 Alderman Stacy. 00:43:44.810 --> 00:44:01.980 Are you saying that these three employees would be the last three officers to receive this benefit? 00:44:02.400 --> 00:44:02.960 That's correct. 00:44:02.960 --> 00:44:07.860 And the city was contributing to the PEP plans. 00:44:08.220 --> 00:44:11.040 That was something that was given up during the negotiations. 00:44:11.040 --> 00:44:40.740 if you had 10 years or under the city was contributing 1% of the salary per year to this plan and if you had more than 10 years and the city was contributing 1.5% so that has been given up of the the accounts are still there whatever the officers were able to accumulate throughout their tenure here it's just an extension to these three who could possibly reach the age of retirement during this current contract. 00:44:41.040 --> 00:44:46.780 because it was something that was afforded to them or offered to them up until this point. 00:44:51.230 --> 00:44:52.270 Any other discussion? 00:44:52.850 --> 00:44:53.330 Alderman Monroe? 00:44:53.330 --> 00:45:09.490 So just to be clear, theoretically, there's an amount of cash in these accounts already that's accumulated, so they could already be at the $5,556 or no? 00:45:09.490 --> 00:45:35.830 No, I mean, yeah, they would have accounts with money in that the city has contributed to, you know, during the time they worked here up until this point. That's just the maximum amount. So if they have the maximum amount of sick time and they decide to leave next year, then the city would pay $4 an hour, which would be a max out of $5,556 that would go in that account. 00:45:35.830 --> 00:45:41.670 So if they had 500 hours of sick time, it would be, you know, significantly less 00:45:41.670 --> 00:45:48.970 Any further discussion? 00:45:50.550 --> 00:46:10.120 What you have said tonight has given me more insight and I'm using my last question. 00:46:10.120 --> 00:46:39.380 So I would like to make a motion that we move this to the cow so that we can have a greater understanding and more discussion on this matter because if they're invested and have been invested, then just maybe they should be acknowledged. 00:46:39.380 --> 00:47:13.480 but to add something back into a contract that was missed no I'm not for that but according to what you're saying that's not what's happening am I correct this was brought up during the negotiations just not in the contract I make a motion that we move this to the cow for greater discussion is there a second yeah I'll say I'll second 00:47:13.480 --> 00:47:28.630 Okay, so what's on the floor before you is a motion to move this to the cow, which would be next week. Is there any discussion on the movement? Madam Clerk, please take the roll on the, I'm, yes. 00:47:29.430 --> 00:47:44.530 So are we just trying to get information on moving it to the cow to get more information on understanding why just these three are getting this, or are we moving it to, 00:47:44.530 --> 00:47:49.050 No, it only pertains to these three, to my understanding 00:47:49.050 --> 00:47:49.630 Okay 00:47:49.630 --> 00:47:51.710 It only pertains to these three 00:47:51.710 --> 00:48:00.730 Okay, so what are we, I just want to know, what am I going to be looking for? What questions should I ask? Because I don't understand what else we need to 00:48:00.730 --> 00:48:04.750 I don't know, you might have to talk to Chief Shenberger and get that 00:48:04.750 --> 00:48:13.510 But I'm saying I'm okay with it, that's why I'm saying I just want to understand the reasoning for, you know, continuing the conversation on it 00:48:13.510 --> 00:48:43.450 I just want to know. That's all I want to know. Do you? I don't know. Is it because? Thank you, thank you, Madam Mayor. You know, I don't think any of these officers are retiring in the next two weeks. So the delay, I don't think, is a huge deal from that standpoint. I've got a few questions myself. I'd like to know what was, how much is in those accounts financially, how much that means. And I had asked that question before this meeting, 00:48:43.450 --> 00:49:14.380 but never heard back. So I'd at least like to understand that. I mean, we're probably talking a few hundred bucks to a thousand bucks maybe each, but I mean, it's just a thought. Director Richter, did you have an answer on that? I do. Oh, perfect. So PEP is something that currently all employees get, but it's been, well, with police, it has been negotiated out, but it is 00:49:14.380 --> 00:49:42.400 said, up until 10 years, until you work 10 years, you get 1% of your wage. So every payroll, we calculate 1% of your base wage. It doesn't apply to overtime. It's just your base wage. It goes into an account. So, you know, for an average employee, you know, it might just be $15 a paycheck. But if you're here for 20 years, if you're here for 30 years, yes, it is substantial. 00:49:42.400 --> 00:49:52.040 and when I say substantial, you know, it could be $30,000 or something, but you can't use 00:49:52.040 --> 00:50:19.980 or something. But you can't use these funds until you separate from the city of Freeport. And they are for medical expenses is the purpose of the funds. So yes, they add up. You have to be here a while. Chief? Yeah, and just, and I'm sure this is already clear. I know about listening to me try to fumble through this. So the only payout is 00:50:19.980 --> 00:50:25.580 for, let's say, they retire, someone retires tomorrow, and they have 500 hours of sick time. 00:50:25.640 --> 00:50:29.140 The only payout is $4 an hour for the sick time. 00:50:29.940 --> 00:50:31.520 So that's what it is. 00:50:31.580 --> 00:50:34.680 It's not to continue to contribute to it. 00:50:34.720 --> 00:50:36.140 It's just to pay out for the sick time. 00:50:36.340 --> 00:50:36.720 That's all. 00:50:39.370 --> 00:50:40.690 Alderman Clem. 00:50:41.510 --> 00:50:44.150 This would primarily be for the chief or Michelle. 00:50:44.150 --> 00:50:47.710 So basically, this is similar to a health savings account. 00:50:48.790 --> 00:50:49.610 Similar, yeah. 00:50:51.510 --> 00:50:52.010 Thank you. 00:50:52.010 --> 00:51:05.040 Okay, so before you is the motion to move this to the next cow next week. Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll on moving it to the cow? 00:51:05.340 --> 00:51:06.440 Sellers? No. 00:51:07.260 --> 00:51:08.280 Clem? No. 00:51:08.600 --> 00:51:09.420 Monroe? Aye. 00:51:09.780 --> 00:51:10.940 Simmons? Aye. 00:51:11.360 --> 00:51:12.280 Parker? No. 00:51:12.740 --> 00:51:13.740 Stacy? Aye. 00:51:14.220 --> 00:51:15.040 Shadle? No. 00:51:15.660 --> 00:51:16.320 And Sanders? 00:51:16.760 --> 00:51:21.000 Aye. I can't believe, I can't believe this, man. 00:51:21.000 --> 00:51:23.480 We are tied again, four to four, Mayor 00:51:23.480 --> 00:51:30.240 I'm not sure what more is going to be learned, but if you want to have more understanding, then let's move it to the cow 00:51:30.240 --> 00:51:35.060 Motion passes, five to four, to move item 13 to the cow 00:51:35.060 --> 00:51:37.660 Thank you, Mayor 00:51:37.660 --> 00:51:41.820 Item number 14, would you please read this 00:51:41.820 --> 00:51:49.460 Discussion and possible action to install a street light at the intersection of Iroquois Street and State Avenue 00:51:49.460 --> 00:51:51.460 Alderman Stacy and Simmons. 00:51:52.580 --> 00:52:10.130 Yes, I am asking the city of Freeport to put a stoplight, I'm sorry, a light at State and Iroquois. 00:52:10.130 --> 00:52:43.140 this is where a young man was murdered and it's Shalom Park or picnic area and it's pitch black and you know we say we want to make a difference in these neighborhoods we want people to be safe and and be better and do 00:52:43.140 --> 00:53:14.020 Do Better. If something goes down at that spot tonight, there's no way you'll even be able to tell if they're white or black because the area is dark. And so I am asking the city, we done marched over this, we done had gatherings over this, we done had church outside on the lawn for this, so I'm asking the city 00:53:14.420 --> 00:53:45.380 to move forward in lightening that area. I don't care if it's a street light. I don't care if it's a private light just over the Shalom Park area. But we need to change that dilemma so that it doesn't happen again. And we need light. 00:53:46.240 --> 00:54:22.660 on that corner. Alderman Shadle. There's a street light on the corner there on the southeast corner. There's a pole. It's got a street light on it. Alderman Shadle, have you driven through there? I drove by it tonight. Okay. Was it dark outside? It had not become lit yet. Okay. So when you leave here tonight, I'm going to ask you to please drive 00:54:22.660 --> 00:54:57.150 through Iroquois all the way up to state and you will see exactly what I'm speaking of. It's pitch black. Yes, there is a street light across the street, but it's heading toward the Iroquois way, not the state way. Manager Boyer, is there any way we can put a brighter light in that spot 00:54:57.150 --> 00:55:12.130 that Alderman Shadle's talking about? I could go by there tonight and have a look, and yes, we could put a brighter light on the existing pole. I'm sure Mr. Gallup would be helpful with us on that one. So, yeah, I'm sure we can make that happen. 00:55:13.830 --> 00:55:14.710 Alderman Sellers? 00:55:16.290 --> 00:55:26.730 I drive that way all the time, and I do know there is a light, but I think the problem is not really the light. I think the trees around there need to be cut back 00:55:26.730 --> 00:55:55.030 a lot because those trees cover that light because that's the way I go all the time when I'm leaving my family home and I go there all the time but it's the trees that need to be cut back because they're too thick around that light. Okay, Director Duckman, what are the chances of that too happening? Trimming back those trees? Yes. I'm sure we can ask Pat to cut some trees, right? All right. 00:55:56.730 --> 00:55:58.130 Alderman Sanders 00:55:58.130 --> 00:56:23.930 Yeah, my concern is it's not the one light that is not illuminating that whole block. That's what we're referring to is the reason why the request to push trees back. Even if you cut the trees down or cut them back, it's not going to illuminate that whole block, not that one pole. So you need at least two poles or three, maybe, I don't know. 00:56:23.930 --> 00:56:40.110 but I think it should go all the way to Chicago myself in front of the church but my thing is cutting back trees is not going to cause one pole to illuminate that whole block. That's what I know of. 00:56:40.110 --> 00:57:06.580 I will say that as I circle through the Fifth Ward, I see a lot of streetlights angled down, not up, and that, too, makes a difference in how much it's able, the area it's able to illuminate. 00:57:06.580 --> 00:57:39.280 so I'm going to ask that that to be taken into consideration a lot of the lights in third and fifth ward are angled downward not upward where they can illuminate thank you if there's no further discussion we move on to department head reports finance nothing this evening yes ma'am I mean can we take action on this 00:57:39.580 --> 00:58:10.750 I was hoping. I asked if there was any further discussion and no one said anything. I was hoping to take action on this tonight. Well, I think it was kind of decided that we would task some trees to be removed or trimmed back and a brighter light put in and let's see how it looks. We can always talk about it once those things are done if it's not satisfactory. Okay. I'm not all right with that, but what do I say? What do you want to do? 00:58:10.750 --> 00:58:20.210 Let's take it one step at a time and see if it solves the problem. If it doesn't, then let's come back to the board. 00:58:21.210 --> 00:58:37.800 Mayor Miller, there's people that know this area. There's people that know the power in the angle of the light and the power in the bulb. 00:58:37.800 --> 00:59:10.810 and so you already know what it's going to take to lighten up this area and make it better so that's all I'm asking for so if people are committing to lighting up that area and making it better then okay. George did you want to say something about that? Okay Darren. So George and I can go look at it together 00:59:10.810 --> 00:59:40.790 We have no problem adding, you know, additional lighting if it's needed. There's different kinds of lighting. The existing lighting that ComEd utilizes on most of their poles, the new LEDs has a downward sweep on it, right? So we can buy different lights to go on poles if that's the direction of council to try to illuminate it better. And cutting trees is just a function of ordering that to be done. So we can absolutely have that done. If it's not enough, then we can investigate adding 00:59:40.790 --> 00:59:48.690 another poll to the area or maybe adding some lighting to the park, although I don't believe it's a city park. 00:59:48.690 --> 01:00:17.780 City Park, but that's something we can investigate too to light up the corner better. Alderman Sanders? Yeah, in addition to what you're saying, if we're going to look at one area, let us take a survey of all the areas that has that potential problem, and if that is the case, we want to look into those problem areas as well when it comes to lighting any particular area that might be 01:00:17.780 --> 01:00:37.680 causing a little bit of darkness in the community or whatever the case may be. If we can do that, also, in addition to what we're doing here on state and Iroquois, I think we'll get a better understanding of what's going on throughout the city itself. 01:00:37.680 --> 01:01:07.540 So we discussed this subject I want to say maybe six months ago and I brought numbers back about it so we can change lights out in areas. The police chief and I sat down and targeted some areas in town to replace the lights is roughly probably $500 a fixture plus install to change them out to a brighter fixture, something like you'd see in downtown Freeport. 01:01:07.680 --> 01:01:37.260 That's not something ComEd can support. That's something that we locally have to do. If we want to add poles and lights and tap those into the electric system, roughly that's going to cost us about $15,000 per pole to add. And that's a cost to the city of Freeport because those pole placements and everything are already all negotiated out. And I've talked to George at length about it. They're more than willing to add them, but that's a bill that we have to sustain. 01:01:37.260 --> 01:02:06.660 so realistically when we change from an incandescent fixture which used a lot more electricity those had more of a bulb type of a fan light where the LEDs are more directional because they're they're way less wattage so I'm not saying we can't we just have to have direction the last time we discussed this and I could go back and get the date there was no direction to do anything so we didn't do anything with it at that time because we we can't 01:02:07.260 --> 01:02:10.240 Have ComEd do it and not pay them for the work. 01:02:11.300 --> 01:02:18.620 I don't know what the city can do with switching the heads or the light fixtures. 01:02:20.000 --> 01:02:26.060 So on the ComEd-owned poles, ComEd has to change the fixtures on ComEd poles. 01:02:26.200 --> 01:02:31.480 We can buy the lights and they can do the replacements, but they're their fixtures. 01:02:31.700 --> 01:02:32.900 They're under their contracts. 01:02:32.900 --> 01:02:46.060 Okay, I just don't want this to go another six months and don't see nothing happening or nothing done. So I am asking that we move on this now. 01:02:48.640 --> 01:02:49.280 Alderman Sellers? 01:02:50.220 --> 01:03:03.480 Alderman Stacy, I totally agree with you about lighting, but that is all over Freeport. If you go down to the corner of, what is it, Ottawa and Iroquois, it's dark down. You can't hardly see down there. 01:03:03.480 --> 01:03:22.120 If you go, if you ride down Lincoln, it's dark riding down Lincoln, if you ride down, so we need to make it where it's a whole city looking into lighting, not just one area, because to me, the whole city needs more lighting. 01:03:22.120 --> 01:03:29.440 I understand what you're saying, Aldermen, Sellers, but we have to start somewhere. 01:03:30.960 --> 01:03:33.860 We have to start somewhere. 01:03:34.780 --> 01:03:49.200 So I brought this tonight, Rachel and I brought this tonight to the council, hoping that we have a beginning of something wonderful and new, but we have to start somewhere. 01:03:49.200 --> 01:03:56.100 Darren, do you have any idea how many lights the city has replaced with the brighter LED 01:03:56.100 --> 01:04:06.400 excuse me I believe that the only brighter LED lights in town are the ones that the city actually owns and 01:04:06.400 --> 01:04:12.700 paid for which are through the downtown loops because the the ones that are outside of downtown are all 01:04:12.700 --> 01:04:20.260 ComEd owned. They're not directly ours. That being said, if we want to do a light, I'm going to call it a light 01:04:20.260 --> 01:04:23.980 fixture replacement because it's not something we just change a bulb in. You've got to change the whole 01:04:23.980 --> 01:04:30.240 head unit. Then we need direction on where that money will come from out of the budget, which is fine, 01:04:30.240 --> 01:04:36.240 and we can move on it. And I would suggest that if we are going to make some changes, then we work off of 01:04:36.240 --> 01:04:42.180 Chief Shenberger's list of higher area of crime. That's where we kind of started and sort of directed 01:04:42.180 --> 01:04:48.340 said that before, but we've got to have a budget to purchase these fixtures out of because it will become our cost. 01:04:49.460 --> 01:04:50.320 Alderman Sanders. 01:04:51.980 --> 01:04:58.580 Yeah, I gather all of that, which you just said, which is a true statement, as I believe it is. 01:04:59.180 --> 01:05:08.240 But I also want, because my sister Alderman is crying about the scheduling and the planning of this project 01:05:08.240 --> 01:05:34.420 and how to get it moving, getting it off the ground. So I want Manager Boyer to give us a preview of how this is going to come about and what it's going to cost us and things of this nature because I'm thinking that his input to when this should be scheduled and done, we should be hearing it from Manager Boyer. 01:05:34.420 --> 01:06:03.820 That's how we get this thing started. That's what I'm trying to say. She wants to get it, Alderman, Stacy wants to get it started. I'm quite sure everybody in this room wants to get it started because it's a necessity and we should not wait. And so I'm asking Manager Boyer if it's possible that he can start this project planning so we can get a big view of how we're going to go about 01:06:04.420 --> 01:06:10.660 and what it's going to cost us and how we're going to plan it out for the council to understand 01:06:10.660 --> 01:06:19.200 how we're going to go about it and the community as well. So I think starting this project is definitely 01:06:19.200 --> 01:06:27.780 something that I feel that should be something you're looking into. You should look into that 01:06:27.780 --> 01:06:57.280 Matters, so we can get it started, because I don't want to hear her say, again, how to get it started, you know, what should we be doing, because it's, to me, it looks like, or sound like, I don't hear no sound, I don't hear the reverberation that's supposed to be going on about, yay, yay, let's put more lights out there, so people are not getting killed, you know, that kind of stuff, and so that's, and so we need a plan and strategy, 01:06:57.780 --> 01:07:12.020 Survey, all of the things that is required to make this thing happen. I may not have all the answers right now, but I'm quite sure we all sitting here collectively should be able to come up with a plan. 01:07:13.460 --> 01:07:14.900 George, did you want to add to that? 01:07:19.150 --> 01:07:31.070 Good evening. George Galrap, Freeport Residence, employed by ComEd. So six months ago, I did take a tour of the streets that Darren gave me. They are LED lights. Freeport's, 01:07:31.070 --> 01:07:37.870 I believe all Freeport lights, incandescent lights, have been replaced with LED. Now, maybe not to the 01:07:37.870 --> 01:07:45.270 standard of the allumes that you wanted to have it, so I did give Darren a cost estimate of $500 to replace 01:07:45.270 --> 01:07:51.770 the lights. We can go back and look at that. Last Thursday, I had a meeting scheduled with your city 01:07:51.770 --> 01:07:58.110 council, or excuse me, city manager, Rob Boyer, to drive the area, but unfortunately, I attended the 01:07:58.110 --> 01:08:28.090 funeral of the state trooper was killed last week. He's my friend's son. And that's to be rescheduled. I couldn't get it rescheduled today, but I'll call Rob's administrative assistant and make sure that we get that rescheduled and let's do it the right way the first time. So if somebody else would like to join that tour or make suggestions, that's fine. And like Alderman Sanders said, it's just not one area. I live in Catherine Drive over in Highland Heights along 01:08:28.090 --> 01:08:51.930 with Alderman Klemm, and we have one street light, period, single street light. The developer traded out with the city 30 years ago that the homes of Svulsa have a garage peak light to light the area. Hardly any do. So we'll make sure we include the entire city. But next week, or this week, coming up, will be a tour of the fifth ward. Any questions? 01:08:51.930 --> 01:09:21.910 Thank you, Madam Mayor. Hey, since you're here, I'll ask you face to face. So northbound on 26 on the east side of the road, there's a pole that was hit by lightning, burned to the ground. The wires are all the way to the ground. Power line appears. I've been asking for over a year to get that fixed. Several people within the city administration not been fixed. The other, who do we call to notify of light streetlights that are out? And whose response? 01:09:21.930 --> 01:09:47.340 responsible for that. Pretty easy. It's 1-800-Edison-1. 1-800-Edison-1. Yeah, so it's 1-800-334-7661. Or you can cheat and call me a lot quicker if you call me. And the city manager will give you my cell number. Okay. Any other questions? Thank you. Thank you. You're welcome. Thank you, George. 01:09:47.340 --> 01:10:06.420 You're welcome. Thank you, George. Madam Mayor, I do have a question, not for you, Mr. Gorep. Thank you for your time. Yes, go ahead. Okay, so my question would be for you, Darren, or, sorry, Wayne, whichever one. So trimming the trees, getting a brighter bulb, what is our timeline? 01:10:06.420 --> 01:10:38.480 Trimming trees we can probably get done if the weather holds in the next five to ten days max lights I will have to see if we have anything in the inventory if we do we can address that I don't know if we have any ones that are as bright as Freeport other as downtown if not we can order one I based on supply I would think within a couple weeks we could have that light changed out it's you know shouldn't be shouldn't be that big a hassle 01:10:38.480 --> 01:11:06.200 Castle to get done as long as that's the direction we want to move. I believe that was clear. That's the direction we want to move, right? Yes, you keep saying that. Why do you keep saying that? What I'm, if the one at the corner of Iroquois and State is no problem. It's if we want to move further, then we have to have more direction. That one is no problem. Well, until we do, until we do the fifth ward drive-through with 01:11:06.200 --> 01:11:42.090 Mr. Gorab, we don't know, correct? That's where it comes back to one step at a time. Yep. Exactly. Okay, we good? And I believe finance, you said no report. Community development? Nothing tonight, Madam Mayor. Thank you. Public Works? Just one thing, we have a water main break on Galena, North Galena Avenue by the McDonald's and the Lincoln Mall. We have 01:11:42.090 --> 01:12:11.850 We have traffic control set up at this time. Please avoid the area if at all possible until we get the area fixed. I'm not sure if we'll get working on it tomorrow or actually Wednesday. We're trying to pinpoint where the leak is before we start digging the road up. Thank you. Chief Miller. No report from fire this evening. Thank you. Chief. I have nothing tonight. Thank you. Library. Now is the perfect time to sign up for the library's 01:12:11.850 --> 01:12:41.790 e-newsletter and learn all about our upcoming events which include our American History Lecture Series, our One Book, One Freeport Community Read which begins on January 25th and we are also working on a collaboration with the Greater Freeport Partnership and the Lincoln-Douglas Society for a Journey to Freedom, Illinois' Underground Railroad and it's a museum exhibit. Thank you. Communication? IT? City Manager? Thank you, Your Honor. I just 01:12:41.790 --> 01:13:11.590 want to report on the successful refresh free port endeavor we did this last weekend. We received, had 83 vehicles come by with over 17 tons of garbage. So that's a victory as far as I'm concerned. The gills did not anticipate anywhere near that much of a response. So the way we have to look at it is this is garbage that's going to end up in the dump, not on these empty lots. So that's all. Thank you, Mayor. 01:13:11.790 --> 01:13:40.690 Yes, thank you to Gil's disposal. Alderman Sellers? No, nothing. Alderman Clem? A couple things, if I could. First off, we'll have a neighborhood watch on the 28th at Schwartz Chapel. I'll get an email out on that. And there's a group of concerned citizens working at the moment with an extra amount of homeless people here in the city. 01:13:40.690 --> 01:14:10.670 As we know, it's really going to get cold tonight, there's a setup, it's a church next door, all ready to go, the people are looking for somebody to help man it from different churches or different organizations, so if there's anything we can do at all to help with this, you can please get a hold of me and I can pass it on or there's a number of people that you can get a hold of, but it's really important because they have 10 setups and FFM's 01:14:10.690 --> 01:14:16.770 FACC is overwhelmed at the moment, and it's something we as citizens need to help everybody out with. 01:14:17.770 --> 01:14:18.110 Thank you. 01:14:18.110 --> 01:14:26.710 My number is, I'll just give it 815-978-0484, and I'll be happy to pass any information on it. 01:14:26.790 --> 01:14:27.250 Thank you. 01:14:27.730 --> 01:14:28.190 Thank you. 01:14:28.990 --> 01:14:29.770 Alderman Monroe. 01:14:30.170 --> 01:14:30.930 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 01:14:30.990 --> 01:14:34.410 I'm glad we're getting to that water break that's been there for about three weeks now. 01:14:35.450 --> 01:14:36.570 That's important. 01:14:38.570 --> 01:14:40.510 It's been wet for three weeks. 01:14:40.690 --> 01:15:19.100 and, you know, I, never mind, that's all I've got, Mayor. Thank you. Alderman Simmons? I don't have anything, thank you. And Alderman Parker? Nothing tonight. Alderman State? Nothing. Alderman Shadle? Nothing tonight. Alderman Sanders? Nothing. That leaves us to public comment. We had one that signed in. Micaiah Stacey? Good evening. 01:15:19.100 --> 01:15:34.100 I am here to express my deep concern regarding the events surrounding item number 9, discussing the revisions to Ordinance Chapter 220, Council, Section 220.10, Rules of Council, which was discussed on November 12th. 01:15:34.100 --> 01:15:41.100 It is the fact that after much conversation, Alderperson Stacy moved and Alderperson Simmons seconded a motion to move this item to December 16th. 01:15:41.100 --> 01:15:48.100 The motion was carried with full support from seven Alderpersons, including Clem, Simmons, Parker, Stacy, Shadle, Sandoz, and Sellers. 01:15:48.100 --> 01:16:16.160 and Sellers. It appears that the direction given by our elected alderpersons was ignored and not respected, and the item was not placed on the December 16th agenda. The people of Freeport would like to know why. Not only was this a blatant disregard for the council's decision, but it also furthered serious concerns about the transparency and accountability of this administration. I believe the revisions proposed by the current mayor, which seem rooted in inclusion and hate, have been designed to restrict the voice of our elected officials and, by extension, the people of Freeport. 01:16:16.160 --> 01:16:22.920 The proposal to increase fines and impose more strict rules further diminishes the public's ability to engage in local governance. 01:16:23.660 --> 01:16:29.660 We expected this mayor to provide some type of explanation for our proposal on December 16th, or did you think we'd forget? 01:16:30.420 --> 01:16:32.380 The situation needs to be addressed immediately. 01:16:32.380 --> 01:16:42.220 I urge the mayor, city council, and the city manager to take the necessary steps to uphold the will of the council and ensure that all items are discussed and placed on the agenda according to the proper procedures. 01:16:42.220 --> 01:16:49.200 The public's trust in this administration has been shaken, and transparency must be restored. Thank you. 01:16:50.660 --> 01:16:52.260 Are there any other public comments? 01:17:01.540 --> 01:17:09.380 I'll branch off what I said earlier. On November 19th, when they thought that they were going to be able to knock my house down, 01:17:10.860 --> 01:17:18.580 Albers and Sons went in my house, stole a bunch of stuff, created a felony theft, and I'm trying to figure out why they was not arrested. 01:17:18.580 --> 01:17:23.580 did. The only thing I could say is that Chief Shenberger told me today that he was going to 01:17:23.580 --> 01:17:30.060 still look into it. They continue to bring items every time they're spoken to. Even today, I got a call. 01:17:30.160 --> 01:17:34.840 They have two of my bounce houses, commercial grade, that they keep getting. I would have been arrested 01:17:34.840 --> 01:17:39.480 the second that they thought I committed felony theft. I don't know why this is being ignored or 01:17:39.480 --> 01:17:45.960 being treated as is not important. And then also, I've talked to Mayor Miller, I've talked to Rob Boyer 01:17:45.960 --> 01:18:13.400 about the direct misconduct that Wayne Duckman has been aiming towards me. He actually said that he was going to knock down everything I own. On the 27th of December, I served him and Steve Cox with a stop demolition order. They tore down my house the same day. The legal is to, if I am filing a legal court proceeding, that my house automatically halted demolition. He chose to knock it down anyway. 01:18:13.400 --> 01:18:45.040 and I just don't understand why or who's ignoring what and why is he giving so much power to do what he wants and if it wasn't a part of approved on the council matter it's 402 and 404 East Shawnee that was not approved to get knocked down thank you are there any other public comments seeing none we'll move on to executive session madam clerk could you please read that for the record we have two items tonight pursuant to 5i LCS 122 01:18:45.040 --> 01:19:02.820 C-11, litigation when an action against effecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal or when the public body finds that an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the findings shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. 01:19:02.820 --> 01:19:35.000 pursuant to 5ILCS 122C21 discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under this act whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by section 2.06. Is there a motion to enter into executive session? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Monroe. Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? Sellers? Aye. Clem? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. 01:19:35.180 --> 01:19:40.000 Parker, Aye, Stacy, Aye, Shadle, Aye, and Sanders, Aye.