WEBVTT 00:00:00.660 --> 00:00:27.840 City Manager, Mayor Jodi, and Council, let us pray. Holy and Righteous Father, we thank you for who you are and welcome the presence of Holy Spirit to move in our midst this evening. We pray for all things to be done decently and in order with mutual respect for each one here. May all speak with kindness and follow your word in Proverbs 15, 1, which says, 00:00:27.840 --> 00:00:56.580 A soft answer turns away wrath. We bind all manner of anger, cursing, and ill will toward each other and lose. We release shalom, that is peace, well-being, to make something whole and be complete. We release shalom, that is peace, wholeness, completeness, with nothing missing or lacking. May this be so as the business of this city is conducted tonight. 00:00:56.580 --> 00:01:26.460 Let all treat each other as they themselves desire to be treated and putting others put others in higher regard than themselves. In Jesus name. Amen. Amen. Thank you, Linda. I will officially call this meeting to order. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? Mayor Miller. Here. Alderpersons Clem. Here. Monroe. Here. Simmons. Here. Parker. Here. Stacey. Here. Shadle. Here. Sanders. Here. 00:01:26.580 --> 00:01:27.780 And Sellers, yeah 00:01:27.780 --> 00:01:32.040 Could you please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Alderman Shadle 00:01:32.040 --> 00:01:47.420 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 00:01:47.420 --> 00:01:59.280 Item number one is approval of the agenda, however, we will be removing items 16 and 17 00:01:59.280 --> 00:02:03.680 16 staff has re-evaluated and not looking to move forward at this moment 00:02:03.680 --> 00:02:33.220 And item number 17, staff is working through the language and will come back at a later date. Is there approval of the agenda? So moved. Second. The motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. All those in favor, signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? Opposed. We have seven to one. Item number two is the approval of the minutes from the regular meeting on November 18th, 2024. 00:02:33.680 --> 00:03:11.920 Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, second by Alderman Clem. All those in favor, signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. Opposed? That motion passes. Public comments. We have two signed in. Ashley Heilman. Ashley Heilman, I am here this evening to speak with no opposition to the changes presented this evening for agenda item number eight. As we are aware, there was a lot of discussion on this topic last round. My hope is 00:03:11.920 --> 00:03:41.580 that you all see that this increases the fines imposed on the owners and also puts a max on the per property per owner. Again, thanks to the city for allowing us to provide feedback and suggestions for the changes presented. My hope is going forward to continue to have open dialogue with this registry to help the city as well as the landlords. With open lines of communication, it can only make things better. One ask again is to please make sure that this is communicated with all, maybe possibly even putting it in the 00:03:41.580 --> 00:04:20.150 newsletter that comes out in the water bills. Thank you. Thank you. And Neely Erickson. Good evening, Mayor Miller, and thank you for allowing me this moment to address you and honorable council members. I am here today on behalf of the 1,300,000 members of the Northwest Illinois Alliance of Realtors, and we appreciate the city's ongoing efforts to refine the property rental registration program and the opportunity to provide input throughout this process. The proposed changes aim to improve compliance 00:04:20.150 --> 00:04:49.150 We're going to be talking about the fee structure and the fee structure and the fee structure is designed to maximize the penalty to property owners who neglect their responsibilities while being mindful of the tenants who may ultimately bear these costs. Excessive fees could unintentionally lead to 00:04:49.150 --> 00:05:19.150 intentionally lead to displacement if property owners are unable to register their properties and comply with the requirements because according to your ordinance, rental properties must be registered to be lawfully rented. An unaffordable fee structure could jeopardize tenants' housing stability, creating a significant risk of displacement if property owners are unable to pay and comply with the registration requirements. As we stated before, we have consistently brought forward recommendations to enhance the 00:05:19.150 --> 00:05:49.150 notification and communication process of the rental registration system. Effective outreach to property owners is critical in achieving compliance and we hope that the city will implement these suggestions to improve notification and to ensure the success of the program. We recognize the importance of the city's active enforcement to achieve compliance and appreciate steps like mailing notifications to suspected rental properties. However, again, consistent follow-up will be essential to bring noncompliance 00:05:49.150 --> 00:06:19.150 property owners into alignment. Realtors remain committed to collaborating with the city to ensure the ordinance's effectiveness and notifying our clients at the time that they are at the transaction at the table, as for example, and to minimize unintended consequences for compliant housing providers and tenants alike. Thank you again for this opportunity to provide comments and for your dedication to addressing this important issue. We look forward to continuing to work together on initiatives 00:06:19.150 --> 00:06:54.950 that support our community's housing needs and economic vitality. Thank you. We can move on to item number four, which is the consent agenda. The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature and acted as one motion unless there's a member of the council who would like to have something removed for further discussion. Seeing none, the consent agenda is approving to receive and place on file the CBDG sewer lining grant public hearing minutes from November 18th, 2024, the Greater Freeport Partnership monthly report November 20th, 00:06:54.950 --> 00:07:24.550 2024. The finance bills in the total of $5,142,653.42 and payroll for pay period ending November 16, 2024 in the total of $638,804.98. Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Shadle. 00:07:24.950 --> 00:07:58.220 Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. Monroe. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye. And Stacy. Aye. The motion passes 8 to 0. Item number 5 is acknowledgement from the Fraternal Order of Police. Deputy Chief Davis. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'll turn it over to the FOP representatives, Corporal Truckenmiller and Detective Rosenstein. Hey, good evening. I'm Devin Truckenmiller. I'm a corporal, Freeport Police Department. I currently act as the union president for 00:07:58.220 --> 00:08:07.260 for our Freeport Fraternal Order of Police Union. With me is Detective Nick Rosenstein. He's the Secretary for the Union, and he's going to speak. 00:08:07.600 --> 00:08:19.480 The reason we're here today is to show our gratitude to the City Council, the Mayor, and the City Manager for the support and approval of our contract starting in January. 00:08:20.100 --> 00:08:28.160 The impact this contract will have is immense. All of your support of the PD has always been felt, but it's even more apparent now. 00:08:28.160 --> 00:08:58.160 Each of you reside in different areas of the city We are sure you all view the community and the issues it faces differently We hope that you see that officers with the Freeport Police Department take pride in the way we interact and deal with these issues in the city We believe with the recent vote to pass this new contract you all know and understand these difficulties officers face every day in the city of Freeport The contract gives us faith that we will continue to perform our jobs at the highest level with integrity and professionalism 00:08:58.160 --> 00:09:05.160 We recognize the city has committed to a substantial obligation to us and we plan to do everything it takes to ensure that it doesn't go unnoticed 00:09:05.160 --> 00:09:14.580 We understand the positions that you all are in are not easy and should also be recognized for making the city of Freeport a great place 00:09:14.580 --> 00:09:16.600 For this, we thank you all 00:09:16.600 --> 00:09:23.810 And he's not here today, but we just also wanted to give thanks to Chief Shenberger 00:09:23.810 --> 00:09:29.330 Since he's taken over a year and a half ago, morale at the PD has never been as high as it is right now 00:09:29.330 --> 00:09:33.850 We are getting new officers to apply and this contract will definitely help to retain those new officers 00:09:33.850 --> 00:09:38.770 As you all know over the past few years we've been directly affected by the political environment 00:09:38.770 --> 00:09:44.390 There's been a battle every day to get the officers we need to effectively do our jobs and serve this community to the best of our abilities 00:09:44.390 --> 00:09:46.870 We need good officers and we need them to stay 00:09:46.870 --> 00:09:50.630 This contract and your support will keep people here no doubt 00:09:50.630 --> 00:09:52.210 But this goes beyond that too 00:09:52.210 --> 00:09:55.210 We can't forget Chief Shenberger's direct effect on this department 00:09:55.210 --> 00:09:59.390 His ability to go above and beyond to create a family-friendly atmosphere 00:09:59.390 --> 00:10:27.980 family-friendly atmosphere that people are proud to call home. We have officers that truly care about their fellow officers and care about this community. This is because of the leadership and the tone Chief Schemberger has set for this department. We think this also shows by the work this department has done for the community over the past year and a half. We are very happy this has not been unnoticed by you all. Thank you all for this contract and we will continue to provide the best services to this community. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 00:10:28.000 --> 00:11:06.430 You're good. Thank you, gentlemen. Item number six are appointments and reappointments. Could you please read these for the record? Appointment of Anthony Huffines to the Planning Commission, effective immediately through October 31st, 2028. Acceptance of an appointment of Jabria Pearson as deputy city clerk. Acceptance of designations for Open Meetings Act officers, including myself, Jabria Pearson, deputy city clerk, Ashley Huffines, library director, Kaya Eckert, library administrative assistant. Acceptance of designations of freedom of 00:11:06.430 --> 00:11:37.960 Information Act officers, including myself, Jabria Pearson, Deputy City Clerk, Michelle Nelson, Executive Assistant, Denise Scudder, Fire Administrative Assistant, Hillary Brocious, Fire Marshal, Travis Davis, Deputy Chief of Police, JoLynn Markham, Lieutenant at the Police Department, Ashley Huffines, Library Director, and Kaya Eckert, Library Administrative Assistant. Thank you. Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. All right. We'll take that as first by 00:11:37.960 --> 00:11:45.070 Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:11:46.190 --> 00:12:05.720 Is a voice vote okay when it's not monetary? Okay. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? No. Was there one no? I couldn't catch that. Okay. So it's seven to one. Item number seven is recognition of service awards. Director Richter? 00:12:05.720 --> 00:13:06.670 Today we are recognizing Gladys Hilton for her 25 years of service She began her career with us in 1999 at the Freeport Public Library She also has worked at the police department as a records clerk and in 2013 she made the move to the water and sewer billing department as a customer service representative 00:13:06.670 --> 00:13:34.410 exceptional dedication to providing outstanding customer service. Her consistent ability to go above and beyond coupled with her positive attitude and genuine empathy truly sets her apart. Gladys consistently resolves issues with patience and professionalism, leaving our customers feeling valued and heard. I would like to recognize Gladys' hard work and dedication today. 00:13:34.410 --> 00:13:36.330 She is a true team player 00:13:36.330 --> 00:13:41.390 I am very appreciative of all of her work in the water sewer billing department 00:13:41.390 --> 00:13:45.990 She is a pleasure to work with 00:13:45.990 --> 00:13:50.250 And always has an upbeat smile on her face and a happy greeting for you 00:13:50.250 --> 00:13:52.470 Congratulations, Gladys 00:13:52.470 --> 00:13:55.550 And thank you for being with us for 25 years 00:13:55.550 --> 00:14:06.470 Congratulations 00:14:06.470 --> 00:14:10.210 Manager Boyer 00:14:10.210 --> 00:14:11.590 Thank you, Your Honor 00:14:11.590 --> 00:14:14.910 Tonight we'd also like to acknowledge and celebrate 00:14:14.910 --> 00:14:16.390 Billy Neisman 00:14:16.390 --> 00:14:58.770 he's been with the city for 15 years he is actually home with with an illness however we thank him for his service as our animal control officer he does a fantastic job so thank you very much Billy Deputy Chief Davis I would just recognize Doug Hill as well and he's been with the department for 15 years and does an outstanding job thank you and then Chief Miller yes thank you Mayor Miller I'd like to invite Chris Brennan up here 00:14:58.770 --> 00:15:29.270 It's my pleasure to introduce Firefighter Paramedic Christopher Brennan. Christopher joined us December 12th, December 15th, December 15th, 2014. He holds a Bachelor's of Science degree from Milwaukee School of Engineering. He also holds a certified paramedic license, several fire service certificates. 00:15:29.270 --> 00:15:59.250 departments such as company fire officer, advanced firefighter technician, vehicle and machinery operations, fire service vehicle operator, and several technical rescue classes. Those are comprised of structural collapse operations and technician, confined space rescue and operations technician, trench operations, and rope operations and technician. Additionally, he also is a fire apparatus engineer. 00:15:59.270 --> 00:16:29.270 engineer, and is a hazardous materials first responder and operations level, command and general staff class he's attended, and is also our previous fire department mechanic. So I'd also like to add that he's currently going through our promotion testing process right now for the rank of lieutenant. He's here with his wife, Michelle, and their children this evening. So it's my pleasure to introduce and congratulate you for 00:16:29.270 --> 00:16:42.930 10 years of service. Thank you. And he also understands he wanted to make a speech for tonight as well. 00:17:08.060 --> 00:17:13.420 Okay, we'll move on to item number eight, which is the second reading of Ordinance 20-24-62. Could you please read this? 00:17:13.800 --> 00:17:18.240 Ordinance revising registration deadline and increasing landlord registry penalty. 00:17:19.000 --> 00:17:19.760 Manager Boyer. 00:17:20.240 --> 00:17:27.720 Thank you, Your Honor. I'm going to go ahead and hand this off to Director Duckman as he has revised the last, 00:17:27.720 --> 00:17:59.140 included all the last changes into this recent memo. Thank you, Manager Boyer. So, as stated last in the last reading of this ordinance, important couple key notes here to remember and to highlight. So, for 2025, what's being proposed is a deadline of April 1st. And the reason for the April 1st deadline is we're making a change to the ordinance and we want to give people some time to understand the changes. 00:17:59.520 --> 00:18:29.460 and give them a couple extra months there but moving forward it's going to be January 1st coming from January and January 1st starting in 2020 since 2026 and moving forward a couple of the highlights here in this ordinance is that prior to passing this ordinance we had a deadline of June 1st and we also had a late fee of $100 per unit and we had a lengthy discussion at the last council meeting and it was agreed upon to move 00:18:29.460 --> 00:18:37.420 forward the ordinance with the following penalties. So if an application is filed 30 days or less after the due 00:18:37.420 --> 00:18:47.500 date, it's $100 a unit with a $1,500 per property max, maximum. If the application is filed more than 30 00:18:47.500 --> 00:18:55.000 days but less than 90 days after the due date, it's $250 per unit with a $3,000 per property maximum. 00:18:55.000 --> 00:19:26.080 and then for applications filed 90 days or more after the due date it's $500 per unit with a $6,000 property maximum and with that being said staff is recommending approval of the ordinance thank you any further discussion Alderman Stacy did anything change from the first time nothing has changed on this since it was presented in the reading of the ordinance the first reading not 00:19:26.080 --> 00:19:27.120 Nothing has changed 00:19:27.120 --> 00:19:33.290 Alderman Sanders, I'm sorry 00:19:33.290 --> 00:19:36.250 A lot of S's over there 00:19:36.250 --> 00:19:41.660 Director Duckman 00:19:41.660 --> 00:19:45.560 Anything in the wording changed 00:19:45.560 --> 00:19:49.460 As far as registration applications and 00:19:49.460 --> 00:19:50.520 Tenants 00:19:50.520 --> 00:19:53.280 Application 00:19:53.280 --> 00:19:57.820 Applying for any rental 00:19:57.820 --> 00:19:58.060 Bro, Bro, Bro. 00:19:58.060 --> 00:20:22.750 for any rental property or whatever. Has any wording changed in the application that will allow the, because I'm trying to state that if there's any loopholes in this application that benefits the owner as opposed to the tenant, have we looked at that specifically to make sure that that doesn't happen? 00:20:22.750 --> 00:20:34.570 The ordinance has not changed since it was presented the last time, and this is for landlords to register their property, not for tenants 00:20:34.570 --> 00:20:35.530 Okay 00:20:35.530 --> 00:20:41.820 Is there anyone else before I move on to Alderman Stacey? Alderman Monroe 00:20:41.820 --> 00:20:43.880 Thank you, Mayor Miller 00:20:43.880 --> 00:20:47.000 Question for Director Duckman 00:20:47.000 --> 00:20:54.240 To date, we still have not enforced any of the laws or ordinances that have been on the books 00:20:54.240 --> 00:21:03.280 what's different here? Well I think in the specific ordinance itself as it's written there's not anything 00:21:03.280 --> 00:21:08.600 stating hey this is how we're going to enforce it better but in the memo I talk about how we now 00:21:08.600 --> 00:21:15.660 implemented a new software where we've identified what properties are actually rentals we didn't have 00:21:15.660 --> 00:21:21.460 that ability before or we didn't have it in a way that was efficient or effective and now we have the 00:21:21.460 --> 00:21:28.740 software that highlights the properties that are rentals and it's based on taking multiple data from 00:21:28.740 --> 00:21:34.940 different platforms running logarithms through it and stating okay basically we know somebody owns this 00:21:34.940 --> 00:21:39.800 and we know that they're not the ones where the property tax bill is going to or we know there's 00:21:39.800 --> 00:21:45.640 a different water bill name there's a multitude of different metrics it does and so now once an 00:21:45.640 --> 00:21:51.440 ordinance passes we're going to use this basically sending out a letter to people stating you have to 00:21:51.440 --> 00:21:56.400 Register or you're subject to these fines. And then that same software would then issue the fines to the 00:21:56.400 --> 00:22:08.160 people once they didn't, if they didn't register their property. Anyone else for a first time? Is there any 00:22:08.160 --> 00:22:17.030 further discussion? Hold on, Ms. Stacy? Okay, we keep saying that there's going to be a letter mailed out. 00:22:17.330 --> 00:22:25.590 Do we know when this letter is going to be mailed out and if it has already been written? 00:22:25.590 --> 00:22:56.780 Correct, well it's in its draft phase now and I spoke with my staff and I said once it's approved our goal is to work on getting it out in the next two weeks. Once it's approved. Once it's approved the next two weeks? That's our goal. Approved by your staff? No, I mean when I send out the letter it's going to state here's the fines that you're subject to and if I don't have the fines approved by council I don't want to 00:22:56.780 --> 00:23:29.420 send that misinformation. Okay. So the letter will come back to the council? No. This, what's before. I think what Director Duckman is saying, when this ordinance is approved, then they hope to get the letter out within two weeks. Okay. Thank you. If there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. Monroe. Aye. Simmons. 00:23:30.040 --> 00:24:01.340 Aye. Parker? Aye. And Stacey? Aye. The ordinance passes 8-0. Move on to item number 9, which is a second reading of ordinance 2024-63. Could you please read this? Fiscal year 2025 appropriation ordinance. Manager Boyer? Thank you, Your Honor. We began the budgeting process September 3rd of 2024. We've gone through many public input sessions and many council committee or finance committee of the holes. 00:24:01.340 --> 00:24:07.940 before you is the 2025 appropriation ordinance and staff recommend City Council move forward 00:24:07.940 --> 00:24:17.300 and pass the ordinance. Thank you. Further discussion, Council? Madam Clerk, please take the, oh, I'm sorry, Alderman Monroe. 00:24:18.020 --> 00:24:26.000 Thank you, Mayor Miller. You know, I think I just want to point out the spending that's, the increases in 00:24:26.000 --> 00:24:30.820 spending that have occurred over the last two and a half, three years have been significant. 00:24:30.820 --> 00:24:34.400 I'm just flipping to the right page. 00:24:34.480 --> 00:24:34.900 I apologize. 00:24:35.120 --> 00:24:37.340 I thought more people would speak. 00:24:38.960 --> 00:24:49.630 The amount of money that is being increased on, as most of us, a lot of us, live within very, 00:24:49.750 --> 00:24:51.530 very tight budgets in the city of Freeport. 00:24:51.610 --> 00:24:54.390 So if you're on Social Security, you're low income. 00:24:54.950 --> 00:25:00.050 The budget is literally up five and a half to six million dollars. 00:25:00.690 --> 00:25:01.690 That's per year. 00:25:02.550 --> 00:25:32.530 We've been getting a lot of roads done, we've been getting a lot of work done, but what we're seeing are the increases in retirement, pensions, we're seeing huge increases in salaries, we recently went through a tax increase to help pay for improving our roads, and as we continue to increase in spend, there's no method within the city for curbing the spending and 00:25:32.550 --> 00:26:02.550 controlling the spending beyond what we try to do in here. And in recent months, we've tried to limit people's ability to speak. We've tried to basically increase budgets across the board. The police department's up two and a half million dollars since 2022. Two and a half million dollars. We've added no additional police officers 00:26:02.550 --> 00:26:29.870 It's just the ones that we're putting on the streets are getting paid more. The fire department's next in line to get a fat pay raise. And that's going to come in 2025. Same with public works. We were told there weren't going to be huge increases. We wouldn't need more tax dollars to pay for this. But unfortunately, we will. And it's going to come out of the citizens of Freeport's pockets. And unfortunately, it's going to get bigger and bigger every year. 00:26:29.870 --> 00:26:35.790 and we just ratified the police department and I'll be the first to admit it's a very tough job. 00:26:36.510 --> 00:26:42.830 We need more officers on the street, not necessarily paying each of them 25% more within the next three years. 00:26:44.050 --> 00:26:51.350 We have to do things smarter. There are tools out there that can do license plate reading that we can 00:26:51.350 --> 00:26:56.670 post in different parts of the city, especially areas that leave the city so that we can track 00:26:56.670 --> 00:27:03.170 criminal activity, stolen cars and property, things like that, shooting suspects. None of that's been really 00:27:03.170 --> 00:27:09.670 looked at, and it's not been added to the budget. Things that we would replace a police officer, in a 00:27:09.670 --> 00:27:16.190 sense, and help us be better at looking into criminal activities. When it comes to this budget, 00:27:16.190 --> 00:27:22.510 it is so filled with pork, and it's so filled with the ability to pay each person more money, 00:27:22.510 --> 00:27:51.950 It's almost revolting to somebody who lives in the city of Freeport and a lot of my neighbors, a lot of people that go to our neighborhood watch meetings have fixed incomes. There's no more fat in their budgets. And if you look at your property tax bills that came out, we did. We held our property tax flat. The problem is, though, and what nobody wants to talk about are the values of our properties have gone up significantly. 00:27:52.510 --> 00:28:22.030 and as we tear more homes down and we have less property for available housing in the city of Freeport those values are going to continue to go up and the taxes go up just based on the value of the appraisal of your property so not only have we taxed that but in this budget and in the last couple of weeks we've started taxing everything you want to do to improve your property where we've generated hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue 00:28:22.030 --> 00:28:45.010 But this isn't a business that's based on taking as much money from each person as we are. It's based on providing services within our means to support the people of Freeport. And that's every person in the city of Freeport. It doesn't matter if you're poor, you're rich, you're white, you're black, anything in between. It's all of us. 00:28:45.010 --> 00:29:14.990 and at some point somebody's got to stand up and take a stand and say five million dollars in literally two and a half to three years about the length of term of this city manager's role since we've gone over to the city management form of government we're up over ten million dollars a year we have got to start looking at this spending and we've got to start holding people accountable and right now we are not doing that and and I just found the numbers three years 00:29:15.010 --> 00:29:44.990 We are running a two and a half million dollar deficit, and this is right off of the handout that anybody can look at that's attached to the agenda for tonight over the last two years. So we're not only increasing our spending, we're decreasing and running and starting to run a deficit. So that means we will have to raise taxes. And I am vehemently opposed to that type of government, the same thing that we have to raise taxes. 00:29:45.010 --> 00:29:52.090 tax and spend behavior. It cannot be tolerated in this city because it is going to push everybody out of the city. 00:29:52.390 --> 00:29:55.950 We will have nobody left. No businesses want to stick around because 00:29:55.950 --> 00:30:00.920 No businesses want to stick around because they can't get quality people wanting to move here. The highest taxes in the nation 00:30:00.920 --> 00:30:09.820 right here in Northwest Illinois, Winnebago and Stevenson counties are bombarded with taxes from the state, from the county, from the 00:30:09.820 --> 00:30:16.500 municipality, and from the federal government. We have to do something to limit this here and that's why we want 00:30:16.500 --> 00:30:22.980 home rule. We don't have home rule to drive more revenue. We have home rule to take care of ourselves 00:30:22.980 --> 00:30:33.760 and right now we're not doing that and it's an abomination that we're going to look into that and look to pass this very, very fat-filled budget. I yield. 00:30:36.470 --> 00:30:38.510 Anyone else? Alderman Stacy. 00:30:38.510 --> 00:30:54.970 Yes, I have some questions and concerns here. In 2024, $20,328.12 in real estate taxes. However, for 2024, 00:30:54.990 --> 00:31:26.160 We budgeted zero. Computer hardware, software, $101,750. That was a $40,000 increase. Why? Software, $304,040. That was $130,000. Why? Telephone and communication, $203,200. 00:31:26.980 --> 00:32:18.090 We have a communication department. In the miscellaneous, we had salary, health insurance, life insurance. Who is paid in the miscellaneous portion? $75,000 increase for electrical streetlights. Is this just the downtown area that's costing us $75,000? 00:32:19.150 --> 00:33:07.710 what area does this cover? That's most of it. Director Richter, I saw you were taking a few notes. Did you want to respond on some of these things that were just brought up? Yes, I have a couple of questions. Okay, go ahead. I'm just kind of working backwards. The last one you had was streetlights, increase of $75,000. I do believe that is downtown. Those are the only streetlights we pay for, if I understand that right. 00:33:07.810 --> 00:33:14.530 and I believe Mike Mudge told us there would be an increase over the next year 00:33:14.530 --> 00:33:17.350 and that's where we came up with the 75,000. 00:33:20.530 --> 00:33:28.590 The miscellaneous, the next one up you said, can you give me a number to that or where you're looking? 00:33:29.330 --> 00:33:31.050 I looked last night. 00:33:31.150 --> 00:33:31.590 I'm sorry. 00:33:32.550 --> 00:33:37.190 Maybe it was 101, 163 towards the end of the general section. 00:33:37.190 --> 00:34:22.810 I'm guessing you're just looking in general section or 101-162. I don't know there's 90 pages to this thing. Are you saying that there's no salary and health insurance and life insurance in the miscellaneous columns? I'm not sure what you mean by miscellaneous. 00:34:22.810 --> 00:34:51.730 It just had M-I-S-C There's an M-I-S M-I-S Okay, so there is a section that's Department 101-162, which it does say M-I-S, but M-I-S is IT, I'm sorry, it's Management Information Systems, it's Curt's Department, and it does say 162-M-I-S, 00:34:51.730 --> 00:35:21.690 so maybe that's the section I think that could be if where most of these came from salary and benefits in that area would be for director Suttman and his deputy in that department there's only two of them in that department which would have wages and benefits but you did mention hardware and software and telephone and those amounts look like I think they all 00:35:21.690 --> 00:35:50.230 All Come, 203, yeah, that one, that one, hardware, software, those are also in IT department, along with telephone, all of our telephone bills go through Curt, and so he has all of the telephone expenses for the general, all the departments of the general fund, 00:35:50.230 --> 00:36:29.380 and was your question is why the increases? Yes. I can I don't I don't know if if Kurt wants to respond but Kurt is very detailed with his budgets and keeps line item by line item of what software what hardware he needs to purchase. Maybe I can ask him to elaborate a little bit more. Yeah. So for the computer hardware a lot of the increase 00:36:29.380 --> 00:37:11.160 is this? So for the communications part, that's connectivity. So that's every telephone system in the city, every cell phone, every iPhone, tablet, emergency services, things like the elevator, telecommunication line, all that's in there. And it is going up every year. Hardware is up a little bit because we added, tonight I'm presenting for a host 00:37:11.160 --> 00:37:44.340 server for the PD because it's at the end of its useful life. Next year the city's going to have the same situation. So it's up a little bit along with some, actually I think hardware's not that up as much as from last year, I don't believe. And software, included in software is things like ShotSpotter for PD. So I think we're doubling that next year, so that's another 50,000. There's additional things in our financial software as well as software other departments have wanted and requested. 00:37:45.200 --> 00:37:59.580 and that's a large amount of the increase. The shots fired, can you tell me how much of an increase that has been? 00:38:00.260 --> 00:38:22.380 So the increase for this next budget will be 50,000. It was 50,000 coming in this year and we're doubling that to 100. So we're adding 50,000 to it. But that's the one that detects shots fired so the police can respond quickly to, you know, provide safe neighborhoods. 00:38:22.380 --> 00:38:57.850 The $50,000 was the shots fired. It is. We're doubling the coverage, I believe. So it costs twice as much for twice as much equipment. Alderman Sanders? Yes. Are these items, particularly for your department, are they line items, receipts, or any other department that has a budget, are they line items that we 00:38:57.850 --> 00:39:02.230 We can tangibly, visibly see them. 00:39:02.470 --> 00:39:11.810 My worksheet here that has everything we're going to buy for next year, there are things that are for other departments. We provide those to other departments. 00:39:11.810 --> 00:39:26.930 Can we have copies of that? Because it demonstrates to us exactly what are the purchasing items, what are the receipts are all about, and that we can assess 00:39:26.930 --> 00:39:53.650 that's why things are increasing and decreasing or whatever the case is. I like that to come from the financial department to be able to gather all departments with the same opportunity of presenting their line item budgets. And if we can do that, then we can minimize the information that we're trying to seek after. 00:39:53.650 --> 00:40:21.800 that we're trying to seek after. And we do that. Yeah, they've actually been given to every council member since the beginning of September. We've been talking about all these pieces. We're not talking about line items. So for three months you've had that ability. Yeah, we're not talking about line items. Those are not line items. They're not specific. Yeah, the book would be a lot bigger than what you're demonstrating. Pretty specific. Yeah, well, it's not to my specifications. 00:40:21.800 --> 00:40:25.800 I'm talking to Ms. Richter, or whatever your name is. 00:40:25.800 --> 00:40:56.980 I have given you some questions at this moment, and that's what I want to look at, the line items of cost per item, that's what this is, that's what I'm referring to, not what you're demonstrating right there, so is that a possibility, do we have that generated, where each council member can receive those kinds of inquiries, I'm talking to Ms. Richter, or whatever your name is. 00:40:56.980 --> 00:41:08.200 Do the line item budgets, as have been presented, I mean, there's some, not all line items go into detail. 00:41:08.200 --> 00:41:25.860 Are they summarized? Are they summarized? Are you summarizing the line items that you're demonstrating when you say you present them? Are you demonstrating summaries of those line items? I want the line items in detail. 00:41:26.980 --> 00:41:56.580 if that's possible. But what we're receiving is line items of summaries. And it doesn't give us a visual look at what's costing, what's the cost of any items that we're looking at specifically. I want to know what this hardware software costs specifically and who are we purchasing from and things of this nature. Are they the only ones out there on the market that is selling certain particular items? 00:41:56.980 --> 00:42:26.220 That's what I'd like to know. The detailed information of these companies that we're soliciting, that we are asking for their services. So that's what I'm trying to get at. I'm trying to be more specific in detail. What we're being presented is not that. And I'd like to know of all departments, 00:42:26.980 --> 00:42:40.520 are under that same type of umbrella summaries of line items. If that's what we're working with, then we need to have more disclosure on all of those things that we're making purchases on. 00:42:43.940 --> 00:42:44.640 Attorney Zito. 00:42:46.780 --> 00:42:57.460 And so I'm going to take a crack at trying to answer that or address that. And if I misspeak, Michelle or Rob, feel free to interject. 00:42:57.460 --> 00:43:27.360 Correct. So this is the budget, right? So this is what you guys are, as a council, are considering setting as how much do we have to spend on various items, whether they're computers or uniforms or copy paper or whatever, right? And it's an estimate. It's an estimate based off of what we have historically spent on those sorts of items there and what we anticipate might need to be, let's say, an increase in any particular item. 00:43:27.360 --> 00:43:57.040 let's say there. I don't, so while you might say, you know, with your home budget, right, I, you know, you may know that you might need a new furnace coming up and you say, well, I'm going to budget, you know, I've done a little bit of research, looked around at Home Depot, whatever, and, you know, a furnace might cost me $3,000. So I'm going to budget $3,000 for next year. But you haven't gone and actually bought it yet. You haven't picked, you know, is it going to be a carrier? Is it going to be a Honeywell? Is it going to be whatever? You know, might I find the sale? But, you know, it's going to be about $3,000. 00:43:57.040 --> 00:44:27.020 So you're budgeting $3,000. So I think that's what they've done here. For example, using Kurt's department, they know they need a certain amount of software to do this program, that thing, whatever it is, they know they might need a computer server for the police department. Do they know the exact brand right now? Maybe not. Some things they might know right now, but other things they might not. But they're just anticipating that they're going to need to spend next year throughout the course of the year on these various items. And that goes for the police department, whether it's for for 00:44:27.020 --> 00:44:42.000 Weapons, or Uniforms, or whatever it is, Fire Department, same thing there, so I don't know if they can give you a line item of every single vendor, because they don't know every vendor as a right now, I don't think, so. 00:44:42.720 --> 00:44:43.660 Attorney Zito. 00:44:45.020 --> 00:44:48.900 Well, actually, before you speak a second time, is there anyone on the first round? 00:44:48.900 --> 00:44:55.220 Well, I was still on my first time with this gentleman before something else took off. 00:44:55.220 --> 00:45:25.220 and so Larry took the floor then so I was responding to attorney Zito because I originally had the question I understand okay so can before I give you the floor can I just see if there's anyone else that wants to speak for a first time okay Alderman Stacy go ahead I understand that we increase the area I understand that when it's presented to the council it's 00:45:25.220 --> 00:45:52.700 says how much it's going to cost for us to increase. Then, out of nowhere, when it comes this time with the budget, there's a $50,000 increase that should have been stated all along with the whole nine yards of we're going to take on more area, it's going to cost this monthly, but in the long run, we're going to have to budget $50,000 more to cover it. 00:45:52.700 --> 00:45:56.800 It was always in the budget for the 2025. 00:45:58.860 --> 00:46:04.820 We didn't break out that part of it, but I've got 20 items like that for every department. 00:46:05.820 --> 00:46:07.340 I understand that. 00:46:13.180 --> 00:46:17.750 Madam Clerk, did you want to add to that? Madam Clerk? 00:46:19.750 --> 00:46:22.310 I believe that was approved by council, wasn't it? 00:46:22.630 --> 00:46:23.030 Yes. 00:46:23.610 --> 00:46:27.590 Yeah, the expansion of the area. That went through council. 00:46:27.590 --> 00:46:35.490 So we're just supposed to know that it's going to be also an additional $50,000 added to 00:46:35.490 --> 00:46:39.050 That was all presented at the time it was agreed upon 00:46:39.050 --> 00:46:40.550 Darren 00:46:40.550 --> 00:46:48.790 Just a point of clarification, just because it's in the budget doesn't mean it still won't come back in front of council 00:46:48.790 --> 00:46:55.070 This is an approval of the budget, not approval of the spending, so the final spending will come back to council 00:46:55.070 --> 00:47:15.490 So if it's approved in the budget, then in the fiscal year, the police and or Curt and or Public Works or whatever, whatever department will, will go out and get quotes, and then that comes back in the form of an ordinance or resolution or whatever it may be to approve that spending, and that's your chance to deny that spending then if you don't think it's appropriate. 00:47:16.070 --> 00:47:22.470 How many times do we budget for something and it's approved and then we don't even get it, like the dump trucks? 00:47:25.070 --> 00:47:49.790 I don't know if I can answer that question. The last couple years have been significantly harder than past years because of the supply chain issues with COVID, and I'm not going to blame all that, but getting equipment, major equipment that we've been trying to purchase has been way harder. Right now, we can't even get a double crook unless we go through a state bid, so we've been locked out of getting trucks for two years, 00:47:49.790 --> 00:48:21.780 and the prices are significantly higher right now because of the shortage of demand so if we ordered a truck right now it'd be just like the fire truck we probably wouldn't get it for three three years but now we don't even have the budget for it priorities change as all these budget items go these are just projections based on council's directions or or department heads strategic goals that are set by the council on the direct 00:48:21.800 --> 00:48:23.820 that we're supposed to move each department. 00:48:24.440 --> 00:48:29.520 We asked that that money be put on the vape truck. 00:48:30.000 --> 00:48:30.960 The vector truck? 00:48:30.960 --> 00:48:31.780 The vac truck. 00:48:32.300 --> 00:48:40.020 And I don't even recall that being brought back to us with how it was going to be done. 00:48:40.100 --> 00:48:41.080 It was just done. 00:48:42.960 --> 00:48:44.480 Because I said- 00:48:44.480 --> 00:48:48.400 If I recall, it's getting off topic, but you asked for a down payment on the vector truck 00:48:48.400 --> 00:48:51.920 and council voted not to do that and to move ahead with the financing. 00:48:51.920 --> 00:49:23.250 and that was supposed to get money back from the bank about we did the the the bank the the lending company paid for the vector truck all right okay Alderman Clem I think I saw your hand up did you have something you wanted to say maybe a little bit here we had a dissertation about how we're spending so much money I'd just like to bring up a couple things where there's some part truths in that 00:49:23.770 --> 00:49:52.030 The numbers of officers have increased over the years here, without a doubt, and if I remember right, you were on the council and authorized a $20 million loan for retirement. Keep in mind, a million years ago when I went on the council, regular taxes paid for retirements. Now we pay 4 point something million dollars a year. I used to lay awake at nights and think about this, how we're ever going to pay for it. 00:49:52.030 --> 00:49:54.120 How we're ever going to pay for it, how we're going to do this, how we're going to do that. 00:49:54.640 --> 00:49:58.920 Let me tell you something, friends, I hate to say it, but we can do nothing about it. 00:49:58.980 --> 00:50:07.620 It's all determined by the state of Illinois and by the retirements have been set up, and every year, every one of those retirements get a 3% raise. 00:50:08.280 --> 00:50:16.280 So that's something that we can talk about and say, oh, we didn't do this or didn't do that, but there's nothing we can do about those. 00:50:16.280 --> 00:50:30.440 We've gone into areas where we've tried a two-tier system of starting people off on different wages and different retirements, and that's gone so far, but there's been conversations in the state about taking that away. 00:50:30.820 --> 00:50:45.620 So we don't have control over this item. The last thing I was going to say is the shots fired thing was discussed, went through console, and doubled the price on it. It was pretty simple. It was straightforward, brought to us. So, thank you. 00:50:45.620 --> 00:51:08.420 And just to verify your numbers, Alderman Clemm, as far as officers, we have approval for 48 officers, which we will hopefully, by the end of this month, we will reach that number 48. There are three currently in field training right now. There are four that are going to be graduating from the academy soon, and hopefully the other four will be swearing in yet this month, correct? 00:51:08.680 --> 00:51:14.280 Correct, which will bring us back up to the 49 that we had when I left the council four years ago. 00:51:14.280 --> 00:51:42.690 And that's a total of 11 just in the last few months. So any other one for their first time yet? And if anyone would like their second time, Alderman Stacy, I know you've already had your second. I'd have to have approval in order for you to keep going. Alderman Sanders? 00:51:42.970 --> 00:51:43.550 I approve. 00:51:46.220 --> 00:51:47.400 Are you making a motion? 00:51:47.900 --> 00:51:50.740 No, I said, yeah, well, yeah, I approve. 00:51:50.740 --> 00:52:16.920 So you're approving that Alderman Stacy can continue discussion past her two time. Is there a second to that? We have a first and a second. How do I? Yes, it's a unanimous vote. By ordinance, it's a unanimous vote. Madam Clerk, could you please take the role on allowing a third time for speaking? 00:52:16.920 --> 00:52:35.130 Shadle, Sanders, Yes, Sellers, Yes, Clemm, Yes, Monroe, Yes, Simmons, Yes, Parker, No, and Stacy, Yes, motion fails. 00:52:36.750 --> 00:52:43.970 All right, then, if there's anyone else wishing to speak for the first or second time, motion failed by one no. 00:52:43.970 --> 00:52:46.550 The ordinance states a unanimous 00:52:46.550 --> 00:52:52.080 That's one of the topics I want to change in case you were wondering 00:52:52.080 --> 00:53:00.390 So anyway, is there anything further? Madam Clerk, please take the roll 00:53:00.390 --> 00:53:01.070 Here, here 00:53:01.070 --> 00:53:03.250 Actually, you've spoken twice already 00:53:03.250 --> 00:53:05.150 To who? 00:53:05.850 --> 00:53:06.250 You 00:53:06.250 --> 00:53:11.690 I'm sorry, Mayor, ready for the vote? 00:53:11.690 --> 00:53:18.010 No, I'm trying to recollect when I spoke twice already 00:53:18.010 --> 00:53:20.150 Do you want to speak again? 00:53:20.150 --> 00:53:49.770 is that? Well, I had a question in regards. Correct. Okay. I'll motion for you to go ahead and ask your question. This is about a budget. We should be able to ask the questions we need to ask. I'll make that motion. Okay. Is there a second? I'll second. Okay. Did we go around the table again? To approve your third time. Madam Clerk? No, second time. I have not had a third time. I don't get it. Prove to me that I did that. 00:53:50.150 --> 00:53:51.070 Show me where 00:53:51.070 --> 00:53:56.790 I just make tally marks. If I'm wrong, then I apologize. I've got you written down twice that you've spoken. 00:53:56.950 --> 00:54:00.390 Well, you shouldn't have because I was on the computer thing. 00:54:00.910 --> 00:54:03.270 Okay. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll in allowing 00:54:03.270 --> 00:54:06.130 I'm just trying to follow the ordinance, Alderman Sanders. 00:54:07.050 --> 00:54:11.350 An ordinance we haven't followed ever for a decade. 00:54:11.410 --> 00:54:12.310 Actually, you don't have the floor. 00:54:12.770 --> 00:54:13.150 Shadle. 00:54:13.670 --> 00:54:14.570 But it's the truth. 00:54:18.480 --> 00:54:18.840 Sanders. 00:54:19.220 --> 00:54:19.540 Aye. 00:54:20.040 --> 00:54:22.940 This is a vote on Sanders having the third time to speak. 00:54:23.160 --> 00:54:58.720 on a topic. On what? Sellers. Oh, aye. I don't know what happened. Clem? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? No. Stacy? Irrevolent. Excuse me? It's already failed. That's what she said. It's irrelevant. He said no, it failed. So you abstain? Aye. Motion fails, 7 to 1. Any further discussion? 00:55:00.900 --> 00:55:32.080 Take the roll. Wow. Madam Clerk. You can't say nothing. Say further discussion? No. Further discussion by those that have not spoken already. If you can't ask the questions, just vote no. Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? Shadle. Aye. Sanders. No. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. Monroe. No. Simmons. No. Parker. Aye. Stacey. No. 00:55:32.720 --> 00:56:02.700 We are tied four to four. Attorney Zito, what do we need? What percentage do we need on this? Just simple majority. Mayor, what say you? Aye. The motion passes. Actually, the ordinance passes five to four. Of course it does. This is a joke. Well, actually, if you're going to say this is a joke, then I'm going to interject with that, that we've been talking about this since for three months. 00:56:02.720 --> 00:56:31.000 and this is the second reading. Remember that one. Item number 10 is the second reading of ordinance 20-24-64. Could you please read this? Tax levy ordinance. Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. Annually, the city council adopts a corporate levy to help finance city operations. We have received the estimated assessed value EAV from the county. The EAV for our tax district has increased by 00:56:31.000 --> 00:57:00.980 of $15,102,367, or 5.61% over the last year. Based on this information, the city's levy for 2024 would be $2,977,400, an increase of $14,400. A house valued at $100 would see no increase in the city's portion of their property tax as long as their assessed value has not increased. 00:57:01.000 --> 00:57:05.860 decreased, and during the last five years, the city council has kept tax rate the same or slightly lower. 00:57:06.400 --> 00:57:10.920 City staff requested the council to move this ordinance or approve this ordinance. 00:57:11.280 --> 00:57:11.760 Madam Mayor. 00:57:12.100 --> 00:57:12.420 Thank you. 00:57:12.520 --> 00:57:15.160 Can we get the correct numbers read into the record, please? 00:57:15.900 --> 00:57:16.760 Where was it wrong? 00:57:16.860 --> 00:57:17.540 Did I say something wrong? 00:57:17.820 --> 00:57:18.060 No. 00:57:18.500 --> 00:57:19.440 City manager did. 00:57:19.960 --> 00:57:27.400 The amounts are $140,400 and $100,000, not $100 and not $144. 00:57:31.860 --> 00:57:32.660 Have you got that? 00:57:32.880 --> 00:57:34.260 Are you okay with that, Madam Clerk? 00:57:34.260 --> 00:57:46.680 clerk? I have it in the memo. Okay. Discussion on the tax levy ordinance? Madam Clerk, please 00:57:46.680 --> 00:58:02.700 take the roll. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Clemm? Aye. Monroe? No. Simmons? No. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. I have a vote of five to three. Is that sufficient, 00:58:02.700 --> 00:58:32.160 Attorney Zito, and that ordinance passes. Item number 11 is the second reading of ordinance 2024-81. Could you please read this? Library tax levy ordinance. Manager Boyer. Thank your honor. Very similar to city's levy. The city council adopts separate levy for library operations each year. The council also tries to maintain the same tax rate year after year. We have received the estimated 2024 equalized assessed value from the county. 00:58:32.160 --> 00:59:02.080 The AV has increased by $15,102,367 over the last year. Based on this information, the library's levy for 2024 paid in 25 will be $1,062,000. The library will see an overall increase of $50,500 in their levy. The library reduced their request for Medicare, liability insurance, unemployment, Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund last year in order to spend down prior 00:59:02.080 --> 00:59:31.920 Reserves in this area. At this time, we informed council that these rates would need to increase when the funds were exhausted. This year, we need to increase those levels to cover the actual expenses for 2025, and a house valued at $100,000 would see a slight increase in the library portion of their tax bill. I'm sorry, a slight decrease. I apologize. Thank you. Staying corrected. Staff requests city council move this ordinance forward and approve this levy ordinance. 00:59:32.080 --> 00:59:39.170 Discussion, Council, Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 00:59:39.510 --> 00:59:49.680 Shadle, Aye, Sanders, Aye, Sellers, Aye, Clemm, Aye, Monroe, Aye, Simmons, Parker, Aye. 00:59:49.680 --> 01:00:18.350 Parker? Aye. And Stacy? Aye. The ordinance passes 8-0. And item number 12. Madam Clerk, could you please read all of those ordinances? We have a motion to abate all real estate tax levies for repayment of general obligation bonds as follows. Ordinance 2024-65 to abate the 2024 real estate tax levy for the repayment of the general obligation bonds series 2013-A. 01:00:18.350 --> 01:00:28.410 Ordinance 2024-66 to abate the 2024 real estate tax levy for the repayment of the general obligation bonds series 2014-B 01:00:28.410 --> 01:00:38.530 Ordinance 2024-67 to abate the 2024 real estate tax levy for the repayment of the general obligation bonds series 2015-A 01:00:38.530 --> 01:00:46.990 Ordinance 2024-68 to abate the 2024 real estate tax levy for the repayment of the general obligation bonds series 2016 01:00:46.990 --> 01:01:12.850 Snatch. 01:01:12.850 --> 01:01:21.090 Bonds, Series 2020, Ordinance 2024-72 to abate the 2024 real estate tax levy for the repayment 01:01:21.090 --> 01:01:29.770 of the general obligation bonds, Series 2021, and Ordinance 2024-73 to abate the 2024 real estate 01:01:29.770 --> 01:01:34.790 tax levy for the repayment of the general obligation bonds, Series 2022. 01:01:36.250 --> 01:01:37.210 Manager Boyer. 01:01:37.650 --> 01:01:38.350 Thank you, Your Honor. 01:01:38.350 --> 01:01:46.690 each year. We bring this before council. These are bonds that are serviced by local city funds and do not 01:01:46.690 --> 01:01:55.770 require an increase in property taxes to pay for and city staff recommends moving forward with 2024-65 01:01:55.770 --> 01:02:10.880 bond abatements. Discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Clem? Aye. Monroe? 01:02:11.640 --> 01:02:41.100 Aye, Simmons, Parker, Aye, and Stacy, Aye, all of the ordinances pass 8-0. Item number 13 is the second reading of ordinance 20-24-77. Could you please read this? Ordinance of the City of Freeport approving and authorizing a vehicle lease agreement with the Stevenson County Senior Center doing business as the Senior Resource Center. Director Duckman. Thank you, Madam Mayor. 01:02:41.640 --> 01:02:49.120 Do a little recap here from the first reading. Nothing has changed from the proposed ordinance here. 01:02:50.340 --> 01:03:00.600 What's going on here is that the Senior Resource Center is our operator for the Pretzel City Area Transit, and they currently have a bus, which is a 2016 E350. 01:03:00.600 --> 01:03:30.580 it's a 12 passenger van and the lease here basically takes it from another program that they have and moves it into our Pretzel City area transit so another way to put it simply it's adding another bus to our fleet which would go from 16 to 17 and the lease the term of the lease is annual and it also is for $1 per year and it's in line with 01:03:30.600 --> 01:04:05.560 with redoing our two grants, which is the Downstate Operating Assistance Program and the Federal 5311 grant, which funds all of the maintenance and service, and staff recommends approval of this ordinance. Discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Clem? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. And Stacy? Aye. 01:04:05.560 --> 01:04:13.220 Aye. The ordinance passes 8-0. Item number 14 is the second reading of ordinance 20-24-78. Could you please read this? 01:04:13.540 --> 01:04:22.080 Ordinance approving special use permit application at 1161 West Lincoln Boulevard submitted by LGCY or Legacy 01:04:22.080 --> 01:04:31.360 Installation Services to examine the special use of an R4 one-family residence zone property to allow for solar energy systems 01:04:31.360 --> 01:04:58.200 which utilize ground-mounted PV arrays per section 1250-01-B20. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Take a little time here to kind of go through this, and I also have it up on the projector, so if I need to, yeah, we're going to dim the lights, but if there's any questions on the actual location of this solar array, I want to go over a couple things here. 01:04:58.200 --> 01:05:25.920 The reason we have a special use permit for this particular property is it's a residential property, as you can see from the map, and anytime you have a residential property, if you see the blue rectangle in the backyard, rear yard of the property, anytime you're going to do ground mounted solar in a residential area, you have to have a special use permit, which essentially means it goes through our zoning board of appeals, then our planning commission, and then our ultimately for your vote. 01:05:25.920 --> 01:05:52.980 So kind of do a little recap here of what was read in our first reading. We had a ZBA hearing on November 7th and that was recommended for approval by a vote of five to zero with zero abstentions. I'm sorry, it was five to zero and one abstention. And then we also had a planning commission. It was reviewed at the planning commission and it was not recommended for approval. 01:05:52.980 --> 01:06:22.800 and that was the vote there was three yeas, four nays and zero abstentions and so with that in mind one of the key factors that was discussed last at the last reading but also at the Planning Commission who voted against it was the discussion of you know this is just one of the factors was neighbor you know how this would affect the neighbors and staff went through even before before the Zoning Board of Appeals talked to several local 01:06:22.800 --> 01:06:30.860 real estate agents. And there's conflicting opinions on how this would affect the neighbors. So that was the 01:06:30.860 --> 01:06:37.520 main contention in this, in presenting this special use permit. I also will say that at the hearing in 01:06:37.520 --> 01:06:44.520 the Zoning Board of Appeals, there was no, there were no complaints or negative statements from 01:06:44.520 --> 01:06:50.220 neighbors regarding this. So that's the facts that have been presented and now it's before you for 01:06:50.220 --> 01:07:24.170 decision. Discussion? Alderman Sanders? Uh, directed document. The planning commission, uh, voted it down to be gently about it. Am I correct? Yes, they did not, they did not, um, they voted, I guess that's one way to put it, yes. What was the, what was the discretionary reason why, uh, they fulfilled, they felt that, um, it was not 01:07:24.170 --> 01:07:29.450 not a good move because of the fact that it raised question within the neighborhood? 01:07:30.390 --> 01:07:37.630 I think the planning commission looks at the special uses in light of our comprehensive plan, 01:07:37.710 --> 01:07:42.210 which talks about how does the city view development moving forward in the future? 01:07:42.910 --> 01:07:48.410 And one of the main, the idea there was it's a residential property, they know where it's located, 01:07:48.410 --> 01:08:12.950 And there was some strong conversation about, you know, property rights essentially versus, you know, how does this affect the overall development in our residential neighborhoods? And another way to look at it is how does this affect my neighbor's property values, the enjoyment of their property, etc. So there was good conversation there. And that's ultimately, you know, that's how it was. I would say there's other factors, but I would say that was a big dividing point on it. 01:08:12.950 --> 01:08:28.110 But does that also include interferences within the community area, structures and homes and residents and things of that nature? Does that create some kind of interference? 01:08:28.830 --> 01:08:42.410 I don't know. I wouldn't say interference. I think it's more enjoyment by the immediate neighbors. I mean, if you look up there, you can see it's in the backyard, rear yard. So I wouldn't say interference, but I think it's more of, you know, if you're a next door neighbor here, it's more of the enjoyment of your property. 01:08:42.950 --> 01:08:47.250 and how does that really affect our development? How does the city want its development to look? 01:08:47.730 --> 01:08:57.410 So the overall disagreement within the planning commission was based on what specifically? 01:08:57.790 --> 01:09:11.210 Well, put it simply, one person says, I think a neighbor has a right to put that in their yard. That's their property. They should be able to do it. Another person says, I disagree with that. I think development, I think it's unattractive. 01:09:11.210 --> 01:09:37.650 I think it's not something a neighbor should have to look at the glare off of a solar panel or you know it's it's too obtrusive to the you know enjoyment of their property and that's the one person says I think it affects how the neighbors enjoy their property it could affect their property values and that's something that one side said and the other side said no it's your property you have a right to do that because I own the property I should have a right to reap the benefits of you know the sun the solar energy. 01:09:37.650 --> 01:09:41.110 Now, that being said, is that a true statement? 01:09:41.110 --> 01:09:47.410 Do we, is that a Norton is where a property owner can obstruct or cause interference or 01:09:47.410 --> 01:09:58.260 cause interference or inappropriate things that can be obtrusive to the neighbors and so on and so on. 01:09:58.280 --> 01:10:00.920 A nuisance, I would say, become a nuisance to the neighbors. 01:10:01.560 --> 01:10:04.100 I mean, you are the truth, Alder Person Sanders here. 01:10:04.240 --> 01:10:05.180 You're the final word. 01:10:05.440 --> 01:10:08.480 So if you, I mean, the Planning Commission presented their opinion. 01:10:09.440 --> 01:10:12.120 We had a hearing from the Zoning Board of Appeals. 01:10:12.280 --> 01:10:13.640 They recommended approval. 01:10:14.380 --> 01:10:15.380 You know, that was their truth. 01:10:15.380 --> 01:10:21.400 the Planning Commission had their opinion, and now this is your decision. Right, true, true. Okay, thank you. 01:10:22.060 --> 01:10:29.380 Oldman Sellers. Yes, I like, oh, I'd like to know, I know that when we had talked about the people putting the 01:10:29.380 --> 01:10:36.380 solars out there in the arcades back then, and the people were saying, is there a possibility that 01:10:36.380 --> 01:10:45.140 there could be maybe like some fencing that's around it, just in case? We could potentially propose that. 01:10:45.380 --> 01:11:15.360 you would have to be a condition proposed and on the floor and then voted upon by the council members so it would be saying you know I propose a condition that we would put some sort of screening around other than it's existing I mean you could potentially propose that and have it voted on that's allowed in the ordinance. Okay, Coleman Clem. Yeah. Director Duckman didn't we talk about this or you mentioned it that this is 10 feet off the ground. Is this 01:11:15.360 --> 01:11:23.060 So when it's 10 feet off the ground? Yes. It says, yes, maximum, it's, when tilted, it has a maximum height of 10 feet from the ground. Yes. 01:11:23.400 --> 01:11:29.620 Right. And this here, if you take a look at your neighbors and you walk out in your back porch, the first thing you're going to see is 10 foot of solar. 01:11:29.960 --> 01:11:34.180 You are correct. Yes. Right. Per that map. Yes. In the backyard. Yep. Thank you. 01:11:35.360 --> 01:11:42.580 Darren. So I think we discussed this at the last meeting, but just want to provide a little clarity. 01:11:42.580 --> 01:12:06.620 If this was on the roof, if this was a roof mounted solar, this would never have come to council because our solar ordinances say that this can be provided on a roof. The reason this is here is a special use permit to ground mount because they want to review each situation to make sure if the lot's big enough, if the property's big enough, if it's obtrusive to the people that surround this particular property. 01:12:06.620 --> 01:12:35.850 So, Alderman Monroe. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'd just like to make a statement. You know, a few months back, we had a big issue with two panels of 10-foot fence. Here, we want to put in 31 feet, almost 31 feet by 10 feet, almost 11 feet, just rounding, 324.6 square feet of maximum height of 10-foot solar array in a backyard. 01:12:35.850 --> 01:13:05.830 Guard. This, in my opinion, poses a significantly greater eyesore than two panels of a 10-foot fence or an 8-foot fence. It was even 8 foot that we had a problem with. And, you know, quite honestly, you couldn't put a fence that would block the eyesight of the homes behind and beside. So, you know, this question really boils down to do we want solar panels on the ground of all or any of the lawns in our community? 01:13:05.850 --> 01:13:25.890 Because if we say yes to this, we move forward and say yes to all, essentially, otherwise, you know, we run into a problem. And, you know, quite honestly, you know, when you talk about those eight-foot panels on a fence, the answer becomes very clear if we've got a problem with that. 01:13:27.850 --> 01:13:31.990 Is there anyone that wants to speak for first time? Alderman Shadle, did you have? No? 01:13:31.990 --> 01:13:55.110 Alderman Sellers, you want to speak your second time? Yes, I do think that it would be an eyesore to even have like in my backyard because I like my privacy. Is there a reason why they didn't want to put it on their roof? Was there a reason why that they picked the land instead of their roof? 01:13:55.110 --> 01:14:19.170 They didn't state it. They did not state the reason why. I know that some people do it for cost, and I know there's also plenty of people will state that there's issues with their warranties on roof shingles. So as soon as you start, you know, putting fasteners, screws into a roof with shingles, you're going to void warranties. So those are just reasons why the person attempted, you know, is attempting to get this passed. 01:14:19.170 --> 01:14:22.370 Alderman Stacy? 01:14:23.230 --> 01:14:29.330 So did I understand you to say that the surrounding neighbors don't have a problem with it? 01:14:30.370 --> 01:14:40.990 They, so when you, a special use permit, so on the November 7th hearing, there was a sign in the front yard, and letters went out to the neighbors, and then there was a posting in the newspaper for a hearing. 01:14:41.530 --> 01:14:47.230 And at that time, one person had called, a neighbor had called, stayed anonymous, and said, what is this about? 01:14:47.230 --> 01:15:28.510 and I explained it to them and they said I don't want to I have no issue with it I'm not going to show up at the hearing so there was no nobody showed up at the hearing on November 7th and said I am against this so I don't understand what the big debate is if the neighbors aren't complaining what right do we have to complain about somebody putting something on their own property in their own backyard any further discussion if I see 01:15:28.510 --> 01:15:31.330 I see none. Then, Madam Clerk, would you please take the roll? 01:15:35.640 --> 01:15:36.920 Shadle? No. 01:15:38.040 --> 01:15:39.940 Sanders is absent. Sellers? 01:15:40.360 --> 01:16:09.820 I want to say no because I wouldn't want it and maybe right now the neighbors, but if they was to try to sell their home, would it be a problem? That's my dilemma. I don't know. So I'd have to say no right now because I need more information. 01:16:09.820 --> 01:16:30.310 Clem? No. Monroe? No. Simmons? No. Parker? No. And Stacy? Yes. The motion does fail. One, two, six. Item number 15 is the second reading of Ordinance 2024-79. Could you please read this? 01:16:30.310 --> 01:16:52.950 Ordinance approving special use application at 1373 South Locust Avenue submitted by Cyndio Networks to examine the special use of an R41 family residence zoned property to allow for a telephone exchange and other similar public service uses per section 1250.01B8. 01:16:53.670 --> 01:16:54.430 Director Duckman? 01:16:55.230 --> 01:16:56.610 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 01:16:56.610 --> 01:17:26.410 So to recap here, nothing has changed from the first reading and essentially what this is is the Cyndio Networks is a fiber optic company and they have already installed a pedestal cabinet which you can see here in the picture right at the red dot here and then this is the graphic representation here and then this would be locust here. 01:17:26.610 --> 01:17:32.830 and the high school would be over here. So that kind of just gives an idea, a little visual of what this was 01:17:32.830 --> 01:17:40.890 actually happening here. And there were discussions with CINDEO. Originally, this was going to be an actual, 01:17:41.470 --> 01:17:47.730 I would call it more like a garage structure when they came to the city. And there was a large amount 01:17:47.730 --> 01:17:53.750 of discussions on what the city would require for the special use permit. Ultimately, they walked away 01:17:53.750 --> 01:18:01.790 from that. And then we found out this would have been some point in October that they went ahead and 01:18:01.790 --> 01:18:08.390 installed just a cabinet instead. So in installing a cabinet without getting our permission, we went to 01:18:08.390 --> 01:18:14.870 them and said, really, you actually, you're required to get a special use permit because you're utilizing 01:18:14.870 --> 01:18:21.930 this space for what would be a utility on a residential property. And when you're putting 01:18:21.930 --> 01:18:51.290 utilities on a residential property you have to go through the special use permit process as well as an actual building permit so all that being said they went through submitted their application and on November 7th we had a Zoning Board of Appeals meeting and it was recommended by a vote of six to zero with zero abstentions want to state there one of the conditions there that was stated which was later approved by the Planning Commission is that there's going to be a screening 01:18:51.290 --> 01:19:21.270 planning plan that's going to be approved by staff. You can see here this was the preliminary screening that was suggested but that's one of the conditions that was proposed at the ZBA and approved and then that went to the Planning Commission on November 14th and that was approved by a vote of six, one nay and zero abstentions and with that being said staff is recommending approval of this ordinance. 01:19:21.290 --> 01:19:45.200 What is the screening? What is that? Those three, what are they? Those will end up being arborvitas. I believe it's three six foot, right, it's three six foot tall arborvitas. Still don't know what that is. I mean, are they long poles? Oh, it's like a 01:19:45.200 --> 01:20:21.390 Oh, it's like a, um, it's a tree. A tree? You know, like a small, they look kind of like Christmas, a type of a cedar. Oh, I like trees. Okay, that's cool. Thank you. Yep. Hold on, Ms. Stacy. To my understanding, it was stated that they asked if they could do this, and they were told no, and they did it anyway. That's what I stated, yes. Just for a point of clarification, didn't they originally want a structure, though? 01:20:21.810 --> 01:20:35.170 Yes, that's what I stated. So they went to this place earlier and they had a roughly 300 square foot, actually I believe it was 500 square foot, it was an actual structure like a garage. So it looked like a small house, a garage. 01:20:35.190 --> 01:20:36.930 But you said they decided against that. 01:20:36.930 --> 01:20:51.390 No, I told them that, I gave them the requirements that we would need and they said, okay, we're not going to do it. And then come to find out, come to find, well, what they did was is they didn't put up the house, they put up this smaller cabinet here. 01:20:51.810 --> 01:20:59.870 because, again, what they claimed is they said, well, we didn't put a house up here, so I thought we could just do this, and when I came to them, I said, no, you can't just do this. 01:21:00.290 --> 01:21:14.130 You need to get permits. You need to go through the process, and so ultimately, as I said in the first reading, if this isn't approved, then I have to work with Attorney Zito on a plan to ask them to remove it through a court process. 01:21:17.160 --> 01:21:19.780 Any other comments for Alderman Simmons? 01:21:21.780 --> 01:21:25.570 I would say that was a compromise, yes. 01:21:25.650 --> 01:21:36.160 I'll move on to Alderman Sellers. 01:21:36.160 --> 01:21:55.680 Yes, I'd just like to know, when we have situations like this, when people go against the ordinance, are there fines that we can put on them that, you know, you knew you were supposed to follow the ordinance and you did it anyway, so now, you know, you're trying to follow the proper protocol. 01:21:55.680 --> 01:22:00.840 Is there a way that we can start adding fines to things like this? 01:22:00.840 --> 01:22:10.820 When they get their building permit, it'll be twice. So if it's a $100 permit, if you are doing it after the fact, it's a double the permit fee. So it's $100, it would be $200. 01:22:11.080 --> 01:22:11.600 Oh, okay. 01:22:13.040 --> 01:22:13.940 Alderman Sanders? 01:22:14.180 --> 01:22:20.000 As it stands now, what is the corrections that are being made? 01:22:20.000 --> 01:22:49.980 Well, as I presented, when anytime somebody does something wrong in the property code, you always have to give them an opportunity to right their wrong. You know, so this is their opportunity to right their wrong is to go through the process and submit an application. And, you know, I stated in the first reading, and I'll state it again. Certainly, you know, council has the right to vote no to this, and then staff, we would work with our attorney to 01:22:49.980 --> 01:22:56.660 to come up with a court order for them to remove the, actually remove the pedestal and all equipment. 01:22:57.320 --> 01:23:03.260 So, I mean, that's what's before you today is do we, you know, does the city accept their special use permit 01:23:03.260 --> 01:23:09.740 application or is it so egregious that this needs to be immediately remediated and then we go through a 01:23:09.740 --> 01:23:22.370 legal process to remove it? Okay. Alderman Stacy. Monroe, did you? I feel that 01:23:22.370 --> 01:23:59.970 we're setting a presidency here and if we allow them to get away with this when they were told no we're given the next person permission to do the same if they had not have been told no it would be different and I think this need to fail and I think this needs to pull it up or when it 01:23:59.970 --> 01:24:32.750 We're going to have to accept that. Oops. As well. When do we take a stand for our city? Somebody got to be the example. They knew we had said no. Why did you do it anyway? There's no way this should pass. Attorney Zito, did you want to? Well, then Alderman Parker had his hand up for him. Well, my understanding is they did it 01:24:32.750 --> 01:24:36.890 without knowing what the ordinance said. That was more of an ignorant thing on their part. It wasn't 01:24:36.890 --> 01:24:44.830 intentionally violating the ordinance. I guess that's one way to look at it. We had lengthy 01:24:44.830 --> 01:24:51.710 conversations with them about a much more substantial development, and I think that they claimed to not 01:24:51.710 --> 01:24:55.610 have known. I mean, in my opinion, they should have known, and when I reached out to them, I said, 01:24:55.610 --> 01:25:01.550 you have to go through the process to now be approved. So they claimed to have, that's their 01:25:01.550 --> 01:25:12.510 claim. Okay. Alderman Monroe. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Question I have is, will this property still be 01:25:12.510 --> 01:25:18.970 able to be used as a residential homestead, or is that dead in the water at this point with this 01:25:18.970 --> 01:25:26.530 on the property? My opinion is that it's dead in the water. That's my opinion as far as land use goes. 01:25:26.530 --> 01:25:30.950 When you look at where it's at, eventually they're going to want to tie into, you know, 01:25:30.950 --> 01:26:00.770 this is meant for them to tie in they're going to have to go underground here with cables to get into this they're going to tie into the network here they're going to get into these poles and you can see there's an actual vault handhole here so the answer to your the short answer to your question is it's going to render this useless now what's interesting is usually a fiber company would actually just take an easement with a private property owner you know like a clip of it in this situation because unfortunately 01:26:00.770 --> 01:26:08.070 our land values are low the person the company just said okay we'll buy this residential lot and they just 01:26:08.070 --> 01:26:13.470 bought it and they just started building on it and so that's where we're at and to answer your question is 01:26:13.470 --> 01:26:18.910 I do I do not see some somebody building a house I don't think the person who the fiber optic company 01:26:18.910 --> 01:26:23.670 owns it so they're not going to build a house here and if they were to sell it to somebody it it is the 01:26:23.670 --> 01:26:33.090 value for residential has diminished. Thank you Madam Mayor. You know kind of following up on that 01:26:33.090 --> 01:27:02.590 you know that we've got a lot of empty property in our in our city this happens to be sitting along one of the major thoroughfares that's about to be completely redone close to the school has lots of value for a homeowner I you know I think just about anywhere else in the city you could probably get away from this being a really bad decision but you know sitting here across from the school in a great you know a pretty good neighborhood 01:27:03.090 --> 01:27:48.020 I think that's a pretty big mistake, so unfortunately. Anybody else? The only problem is Alderman Stacy, you've already spoke twice. Yeah. Director Duckman, what kind of utility is this and will citizens lose some kind of service if it's removed? It's for a fiber optic expansion that they have. I'll actually ask Director Suttman knows a little bit more about what they're proposing there. This process started with Cyndio Networks, Arrow, and they kind of 01:27:48.020 --> 01:27:52.500 of talk to us about what this fiber optic expansion would look like in the city. 01:27:52.820 --> 01:27:55.780 So, Director Suttman, do you want to just tell us a little bit about what this is for? 01:27:57.040 --> 01:28:03.420 I don't know exactly who this would serve, but it would potentially impact their government 01:28:03.420 --> 01:28:07.200 and commercial clients and if they have any residential in that area, too. 01:28:07.920 --> 01:28:09.800 So, it's internet, fiber. 01:28:11.620 --> 01:28:12.340 Deputy Chief? 01:28:13.680 --> 01:28:17.120 Maybe I'm not correct, but my understanding is that this is for the ETSB, 01:28:17.120 --> 01:28:27.340 and the 911 system and that this would be a backup route if one of their other leads lines was, not leads, fiber lines was cut. 01:28:28.840 --> 01:28:40.660 That is correct. That's one of the things that they have been told to us, but I've heard some, you are 100% correct and I agree with you, but I've heard some varying, you know, could they have gone to a different location? Yes. 01:28:40.800 --> 01:28:46.400 So, you know what I mean? This is connected to the ETSB, but they obviously could have engineered something else. 01:28:46.400 --> 01:28:53.580 So, but you are correct. From there, what they're stating is that this is going to be a backup for the ETSB. 01:28:55.380 --> 01:28:56.220 Alderman Sanders. 01:28:56.220 --> 01:29:16.380 So this also come to the point where it's almost a necessity in case of an emergency situation because fiber optics do encounter construction work in certain locations and can shut down hospitals. 01:29:16.400 --> 01:29:43.540 College campuses can do a number of things of damage to any kinds of institution that's running fiber optic. And I don't know what the extent of it is, but according to what the deputy is talking about, I would totally agree with the fact that our backup routing would be a necessity thing for us to look at. 01:29:43.540 --> 01:29:56.240 for us to look at. I would come to the conclusion that if we don't have this service in place, then we might bite the bullet in the case like that. 01:29:56.920 --> 01:29:57.640 Attorney Sito. 01:30:00.070 --> 01:30:07.870 So I just wanted to point out also that certainly it sounds like that this particular applicant did not follow the right process. 01:30:07.990 --> 01:30:10.770 They didn't jump through the hoops in the right order, okay? 01:30:10.770 --> 01:30:39.950 Okay, so from that standpoint, the city council, you know, you guys can vote to say, hey, you didn't follow the rules, right? You know, or the process, right? So we're going to make you rip it out. Okay, so we, let's say they, we turn it down, and we make them rip out the box. They can turn around again and say, okay, the box is out. Now I'm going to apply for my special use permit. And I'm going to jump through the hoop again, in the same order, in the right order, right? And so now it's going to come right, go right back through ZBA, go right back through planning and zoning. 01:30:39.950 --> 01:31:09.910 and the end-all be-all question is, is this an appropriate use on this property? You know, if they never would have messed up the order, let's say they did it right the first time and jumped through the hoops the right way, would the council have approved this for this location to have this cabinet here? You know, so again, I just kind of want to point that out because they could, you can turn it down and they could rip it out and then they can turn around and reapply for it and at that point we would need to have a reason as to, a zoning reason really as to 01:31:09.910 --> 01:31:14.810 why that's not appropriate here. And if there is one, there is one, but if there's not, there's not, you know, so. 01:31:16.430 --> 01:31:19.930 Okay. Alderman Clem. 01:31:20.350 --> 01:31:25.930 Madam Mayor, just a thought. This is one of those things you kind of label as a bad deal. 01:31:28.670 --> 01:31:36.310 One other option would be to lay this over to another meeting and find out what their options are that they can do. Is that correct? 01:31:36.310 --> 01:31:57.520 Well, yes, I mean, you certainly could to delay it, but I guess the question I would have is they want to go here, right? I mean, they're basically saying our most effective, our most efficient, they want to be here, that's why they bought the property, that's why they went ahead and built it. 01:31:57.520 --> 01:32:27.320 so they're going to come back no matter and say we want to be here and essentially if the council wants to battle them which you know has been presented to you you know battle them and make them rip it out and then go to plan B you know or go back around as Attorney Zito said and said present it to us I mean certainly it can be I'll have to defer to Attorney Zito to check I know there's a time frame on when you're when council I don't know if it's 60 days that council has to take action. 01:32:27.520 --> 01:32:37.900 from the date of ZBA. There is a requirement there. So if we do delay it, it shouldn't be delayed long or stay within our ordinance. 01:32:38.920 --> 01:32:39.800 Essentially that's- 01:32:39.800 --> 01:32:40.840 Possibly change in a delay. 01:32:41.740 --> 01:32:54.960 So, and I'll have Attorney Zito look it up, but essentially it's in our ordinance that says there's a timeframe from when it passes ZBA to where council has to take action on it. So we are, the council is required to make some action on it. 01:32:54.960 --> 01:33:04.590 at least that's my recollection of a special use. Alderman Clemm. Can I just do a follow-up is all I want to do. 01:33:06.350 --> 01:33:16.610 Given an example is the same thing, okay, on in front of what used to be Hartog and Reedy's property on 01:33:16.610 --> 01:33:23.250 Bertschard, as you go around the curve, I believe the telephone company or one of the companies in 01:33:23.250 --> 01:33:51.130 and put an above ground thing in there and there was great opposition from them to it and they turned around and put the same thing in underground, okay? Now, if that's an option, what I don't want to see is every, this is, this is, Arrow is a former hometown company and has roots here and all that kind of stuff, but there's no sense to spend a whole bunch of money before we know all the answers is what I'm saying. 01:33:51.130 --> 01:34:21.110 you know it's a bad deal what if you had a vote on it right now would I go along with most everybody else and say no but what have you gained you know if if they need it there do they take and move it up so the property can then be used you know those kind of things well I will state one point I mean certainly our building inspector we have requirements at the building at the level of you know if you get a building permit and you be missing inspection you know you bury a pipe a service pipe you know our staff will say hey you have to dig that up 01:34:21.130 --> 01:34:25.970 for us to look at it before, you know, you buried a pipe before you should have. Now you're responsible 01:34:25.970 --> 01:34:32.210 for digging it up and showing it to us. But I think there's two arguments. If I had to break this 01:34:32.210 --> 01:34:37.890 down for a vote, you know, you're looking at it saying, and Attorney Zito said it eloquently and 01:34:37.890 --> 01:34:42.650 correctly, that they're going to end up going through this process no matter what, because this is what 01:34:42.650 --> 01:34:47.350 they want to do. But there's also the other side of the argument you could take and say, you know, 01:34:47.350 --> 01:35:16.950 if we don't enforce our rules you know what are they there for so you're really kind of looking at it as do you want to help this along because you know that if they tear it out they're eventually going to go through this process and argue us saying hey I'm going to just do the same thing anyways or are you going to take the stance you know and say no the rules are here we're going to dig it out so it's really a decision that you know has been put to counsel it is a tough decision but I could see you know I could see how you would go either way. 01:35:17.350 --> 01:35:35.390 Darren. Based on my experience with the internet companies, they can build this type of vault below ground. It's just significantly more expensive than above grade, and they prefer above grade because it's easier to service than it is below grade, but it can be put below grade. 01:35:40.100 --> 01:35:44.500 Shadle, Parker, and Simmons, if either one of you three have any more comments, Alderman Parker. 01:35:44.500 --> 01:36:05.280 I just want to state that if it's emergency backup for our 911 system, for ETSB, I think we'd be making a big mistake by rejecting it just because if they need it and it's not working because we shut it down, we're going to look pretty fully, especially if it's an emergency and somebody gets hurt or killed. So my opinion, I think we need to approve it. 01:36:08.100 --> 01:36:18.360 Okay, well then everyone else has had their second time. Are we ready to take a vote? 01:36:18.360 --> 01:36:22.320 Yeah, he's still looking 01:36:22.320 --> 01:36:26.160 Is the floor still open for questioning? 01:36:26.600 --> 01:36:29.320 You've already had your two times, so you'd have to have a unanimous 01:36:29.320 --> 01:36:34.140 Well, I did have a real important one, but 01:36:34.140 --> 01:36:37.660 I guess that's going to get overlooked 01:36:37.660 --> 01:36:45.270 because I think it needs to be in place. Since we're waiting, I'll make a motion to give us another question 01:36:45.270 --> 01:36:51.420 Okay, so we have a motion on the floor made by Monroe, seconded by Simmons 01:36:51.420 --> 01:36:57.020 to allow Alderman Sanders a third time of speaking. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll? 01:36:57.020 --> 01:36:57.860 One second. 01:37:02.880 --> 01:37:22.030 Shadle, Sanders, Sellers, Clemm, Monroe, Simmons, Parker, and Stacy. Motion passes unanimously. 01:37:22.030 --> 01:37:48.710 I'm afraid to even ask the question after Parker got done speaking, but here's the one thing that I wanted to know, as opposed of whichever way we decide here on the council, there's no stipulation of just giving them the leave way or the pathway to do a thing or to let it go. 01:37:48.710 --> 01:38:09.430 I think it should have stipulations or repercussions, findings and things of this nature with ordinances that have been violated. Anytime an ordinance has been violated, there should be a repercussion for those kinds of things and that a fine should be added to any ordinance that has been violated. 01:38:09.430 --> 01:38:38.850 Now, if I'm incorrect about that, even with this particular situation, as opposed of just being passive with it and the council is looking forward to because of the situation that it has with the fiber optics, I think they should incur some kind of fine or some kind of repercussion as opposed of just handing it over to them to let them know 01:38:39.430 --> 01:38:49.510 further on, any other violation, and that goes for any ordinances, that you would be subject to paying the fine for that. 01:38:50.010 --> 01:38:55.950 Director Duckman already addressed that, and he said the permit would go from $100 to $200, so there's a $100 increase. 01:38:57.230 --> 01:38:59.640 Darren? 01:39:00.120 --> 01:39:07.320 Can the council make a motion to increase the penalty for noncompliance? 01:39:09.180 --> 01:39:10.040 Not on this one. 01:39:10.040 --> 01:39:10.580 Is that not possible? 01:39:10.580 --> 01:39:14.420 So, if that's set by ordinance, then you would need an ordinance to change an ordinance. 01:39:15.180 --> 01:39:16.300 And you found the answer? 01:39:17.740 --> 01:39:25.260 It appears to be 60 days after publication of the notice. 01:39:26.580 --> 01:39:29.260 Otherwise, it's deemed to be approved. 01:39:30.880 --> 01:39:34.560 So, whatever, 60 days is from the day that the notice was published. 01:39:36.640 --> 01:39:39.380 Or after publication of the notice, the day that it ran in the newspaper. 01:39:39.380 --> 01:39:41.980 Yes, so this, if the ZBA hearing was 01:39:41.980 --> 01:40:12.560 So this, if the ZBA hearing was November 7th, it would have been mid-October, so we're looking at, it's close, mid-December, mid-December, it's right there, I was right, it was 60 days, so 60 days from the posted notice, not the actual hearing date, but the posted notice, yep, and that's posted notice of the hearing, so like when the sign went up on the property and all of that, we would go, yes, and that would also, yes, and we have evidence 01:40:12.560 --> 01:40:22.790 of the news publication. It's a newspaper publication. Okay, I think we're ready for a vote. Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 01:40:25.770 --> 01:40:43.730 Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Clemm? Aye. Monroe? No. Simmons? No. Parker? Aye. Stacy? No. I have five in the positive, three in the negative. Is that sufficient? And the ordinance passes. 01:40:43.730 --> 01:40:56.160 item number 18 is the first reading of ordinance 20 24 83. Could you please read this fiscal year 2024 re re 01:40:56.160 --> 01:41:02.440 appropriation ordinance manager Boyer. Thank you, your honor. So at the end of each fiscal year, the city 01:41:02.440 --> 01:41:08.580 council amends the appropriation ordinance to take into account necessary revenue and expense expenses 01:41:08.580 --> 01:41:15.680 adjustments attached to your memo or all the proposed changes. Just hitting a few highlights 01:41:15.680 --> 01:41:45.680 we had some additional revenue and right-of-way permits that we did not originally account for so we received a little more there we also received some additional revenue through police reimbursements for some of our training that we did and also the airport grant we received a little bit extra about $40,000 in the airport grant in addition to revenue we had various expenses just to hit on a few again there was a countervailing expense 01:41:45.680 --> 01:42:15.620 grants, for the airport grants. We spent a little bit more on tree assistance this year than originally budgeted. We made an adjustment for that. And then in addition to that, we had some streets. Of course, we did quite a bit of street work this year, and we included revenue and expenses, and we're still paying some expenses on the street improvement fund. That was primarily due to the volume of construction and the number of variables involved in that. In addition, we did pretty well 01:42:15.620 --> 01:42:28.000 with Water Fund and the Sewer Fund this year. Both are in a fair condition. So staff is requesting council move this to the next council meeting on the 16th for approval. 01:42:28.860 --> 01:42:30.640 Is there a motion to move this forward? 01:42:30.940 --> 01:42:31.420 So moved. 01:42:31.720 --> 01:42:32.120 Second. 01:42:32.740 --> 01:42:39.200 A motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the ordinance. 01:42:39.200 --> 01:43:11.550 we'll move on to item number 19 which is the first ring of ordinance 20 24 84 could you please read this ordinance approving for airport farm leases with Melvin Abels Mike Wickman Jeff Hageman and Pamela Manus trust manager Boyer I think your honor staff has been working very hard to get these farm leases squared away around the airport we have received signed leases from 01:43:11.550 --> 01:43:23.610 from the aforementioned property or rental participants, and staff recommends approval of the farmland, or moving this forward to a second reading. 01:43:24.430 --> 01:43:26.010 Is there a motion to move forward? 01:43:26.870 --> 01:43:27.410 So moved. 01:43:27.750 --> 01:43:28.070 Second. 01:43:28.570 --> 01:43:32.390 The motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. 01:43:32.730 --> 01:43:33.850 Discussion, Alderman Monroe. 01:43:34.370 --> 01:43:35.130 Thank you, Madam Mayor. 01:43:35.130 --> 01:43:37.770 A little bit of confusion on this one. 01:43:37.770 --> 01:43:45.690 I thought we had moved forward with the agreements with each of these different entities on a previous item. 01:43:46.590 --> 01:43:57.390 Was it just we were approving the dollar amounts and the names because there were four different pieces of property there that were listed on the map that was shown? 01:43:58.630 --> 01:43:59.950 Manager, did you want that or Darren? 01:43:59.950 --> 01:44:29.890 The last one that we approved were the Kempels, which they have a small section of property, and then we also the Julius's, which they both had some small pieces north. These are the rest of the pieces. So this accounts for all the property that's left. This will have, if you approve this tonight, every parcel will have a three-year agreement. We've also included leaf disposal at our discretion on these 01:44:29.890 --> 01:44:35.330 properties so we could actually spread leaves in the fall or in the spring on these properties to try to 01:44:35.330 --> 01:44:44.330 help offset some costs so we we put a lot of time and a lot of effort into getting it to this this piece but 01:44:44.330 --> 01:44:53.730 this should clean this up and every parcel should be paid with a three-year contract perfect thank you 01:44:53.730 --> 01:45:23.410 and if it suits counsel suspension of the rules would be appreciated. Madam Mayor, I'd make that motion to suspend the rules. I'll second that. So we have a motion on the floor made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman wrote for suspension of the rules. Suspension of the rules is non-debatable and must pass by two-thirds. Madam Clerk, could you please take the roll on the suspension only? Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. Monroe. Aye. 01:45:23.730 --> 01:45:36.630 Simmons is absent, Parker, Aye, and Stacy, Aye, so now before you counsel would be for the final passage of this ordinance, is it for the discussion? Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 01:45:38.110 --> 01:45:53.710 Shadle, Aye, Sanders, Aye, Sellers, Aye, Clem, Aye, Monroe, Aye, Simmons is still absent, Parker, Aye, and Stacy, Aye, the ordinance passes 7 to 7, 01:45:53.710 --> 01:46:00.750 to zero. Madam Mayor, I missed the original motion and second for the ordinance. That would have been... 01:46:00.750 --> 01:46:08.090 Shadle and Monroe. The original moving forward would have been Sellers and Shadle. The suspension was 01:46:08.090 --> 01:46:15.700 Shadle and Monroe. Thank you. Okay, so we'll move on to item number 20, which is the adoption of 01:46:15.700 --> 01:46:24.260 resolution 2024-125. Could you please read this? Resolution approving agreement with Synegro for 01:46:24.260 --> 01:46:54.240 disposal of biosolids. Manager Boyer. Thank you, Your Honor. The wastewater treatment plant generates solids in the form of what's called sludge. That's the last step in the treatment process. And we dispose of the sludge by doing land applied to fertilize farm fields. Sinegro is the company that does the land application, tracks all the locations where it is deposited and manages that whole thing. So our contract needs to be renewed. The new current, the new price is $48,000. 01:46:54.260 --> 01:47:15.980 821 per cubic yard and staff request council move forward with this resolution with synagogue. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Parker. Discussion, Alderman Sanders? Yeah, manager Boyer, 01:47:15.980 --> 01:47:38.980 Thank you. Looking at the situation when it comes to biosolids and things of that nature, who's all involved in making sure that the farmers are in compliance with EPAs and the other organizations to allow this kind of dumping on their farmland? 01:47:38.980 --> 01:48:07.680 and is there any other entities involved in the process making sure that it's not hitting our water waves, making sure that everything is appropriate for these properties. I just wanted to hear the whole scope of everything, how we are maintaining ourselves in compliance with EPAs and these farmers. 01:48:08.980 --> 01:48:38.160 Sure, I'd be happy to answer that. So the reason we use companies like Sinegro is they have basically the administrative tracking system to keep track of what sludge was applied to what fields. They have the relationships with the farmers and they also are tracked and they work directly with the EPA on where those locations are and how much goes down. So that is, I guess, a little bit outside of the city's scope, if you will, but is well within regulators' scope. 01:48:38.160 --> 01:48:48.700 So, once it leaves our facility and is land applied, it then becomes synagogue and the EPA and the individual property owners process after that, so. 01:48:49.120 --> 01:48:50.240 Okay, all right, thank you. 01:48:51.400 --> 01:48:52.800 Any further discussion? 01:48:55.220 --> 01:48:55.800 Alderman Stacy? 01:48:56.740 --> 01:49:03.640 Okay, so, this is 48.21 per cubic yard. 01:49:03.640 --> 01:49:18.220 Lord, if we dump this into the Pecatonica River, would we be safe? 01:49:18.960 --> 01:49:19.200 No. 01:49:21.640 --> 01:49:32.320 So, if we give it to the farmers and we flood, it's still all coming back to the Pecatonica River. 01:49:35.120 --> 01:49:38.520 So, how are we safe in giving it to the farmers? 01:49:38.520 --> 01:49:40.520 Land is specifically... 01:49:40.520 --> 01:50:07.980 Land is specifically applied for to the EPA to spread our sludge on, so we can't just go put it willy-nilly wherever we want. It's not put on flood ground. This type of sludge waste is either knifed in or injected into the ground, so it's not like a product that's just sitting on the ground. If they loose spread it, then it's distant. If they liquid spread it, which we don't do liquid spreading, they knife it in, so it's not something that's running 01:50:07.980 --> 01:50:13.660 around. This is no different than just regular cow manure or that type of fertilizer that's put on fields. 01:50:13.660 --> 01:50:20.780 It just happens to be human waste that's put out there. Synegro, one piece that Rob did not 01:50:20.780 --> 01:50:29.180 state is Synegro is required to do soil testing at each one of these sites annually. That's part of the 01:50:29.180 --> 01:50:35.540 permit process. So all of the process is carried all the way through and it's all the way reported to EPA 01:50:35.540 --> 01:50:43.660 on the soil testings, how much is applied per acre. It's all driven by formulas based on our sludge 01:50:43.660 --> 01:50:50.580 characteristics or the DNA of our final waste. But do we know the results? Do we stick with it through the 01:50:50.580 --> 01:50:56.040 whole process? Yes, we get results of all that, and we've always passed, and Sinegrove's always done a 01:50:56.040 --> 01:51:01.060 good job for the city of Freeport spreading, hauling, doing the paperwork. We've not had any issues with 01:51:01.060 --> 01:51:13.710 and there's not a lot of companies that actually do this kind of biosolids waste any longer. Please take the 01:51:13.710 --> 01:51:39.900 roll on the adoption of the resolution. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. Monroe. No way. Simmons. Parker. Aye. And Stacy. No. Motion passes five to three. Item number 21 is the adoption of resolution 2024-127. Could you please read this? 01:51:39.900 --> 01:51:47.720 Resolution in support of application to the state of Illinois for a community development block grant for sanitary sewer lining 01:51:47.720 --> 01:51:48.880 Manager Boyer 01:51:48.880 --> 01:52:05.860 Thank you, Your Honor. The city of Freeport's got about 130 miles of sanitary sewer in the collection system. During annual project evaluation, cure-in-place lining locations are identified to rehabilitate sanitary sewer piping that might have cracks and defects 01:52:05.860 --> 01:52:33.520 and INI, that's in flow and infiltration issues, potentially SAGs. Our Illinois EPA mandatory CMOM, which is the sewer capacity management plan, requires requirements specify that city addresses annual sewer rehabilitation for our collection system with mainline cure-in-place liner piping for the environmental concerns. We've done quite a bit of that this year on our road program. 01:52:33.520 --> 01:53:03.500 Sewer lining is considered an industry accepted method in sewer main pipe rehabilitation and it is more economical than open cut excavation methods. Sewer lining is over 10 times cheaper to install and the industry standard estimates that it lasts over 60 years and a sustainable useful life after installation. City staff request authorization from the city council to submit to the state of Illinois for a community development block grant for sanitary sewer line to be completed in Wardenburg. 01:53:03.520 --> 01:53:33.500 3, 4, 5, and 7. These wards areas all have areas of concern and sanitary sewer lining would improve the infrastructure in these areas. The current grant cycle request is for a maximum of a million dollars and has no match required. The city engineer estimates the city would install between 20 and 25,000 linear feet of sewer main liner on this project if awarded. So there is no funding for this opportunity. 01:53:33.520 --> 01:54:02.700 No funding match and staff recommend City Council approve the resolution so the grant can be submitted on December 4th. Is there a motion to adopt? So moved. The motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion, Alderman Sanders. Yeah, for installations, and I know this is referring back to Darren and Director Boyer, when installing 01:54:03.520 --> 01:54:33.200 these liners and looking at the finished product of those liners. How do you guys go about inspecting the final product? What's the process after the installation? And then not only that, when it comes to a problem installing to residents, reconnecting to these liners, and there's 01:54:33.200 --> 01:55:03.120 problems at the connections and things of that nature. Do we have a solution? Are we prepared to make certain repairs to accommodate the residents? And is that a cost to the resident if these things are causing problems? And not only that, is it possible someday that we can see clippings, even if you bring them here to the council, or we can go 01:55:03.200 --> 01:55:18.160 to wherever the tape machine is that we can actually see some of this stuff being installed so we can get a great visual of what is being done. 01:55:18.160 --> 01:55:33.160 That would be something of educational and understanding to the council if we can set up some kind of visual just to look to see how we prepare that kind of operation. 01:55:33.200 --> 01:55:53.680 Is that possible? Sure. So, first of all, we do full-time inspection for cured-in-place lining. So, we have teammates out there all throughout the process. First, lines are cleaned, televised, point repairs are identified if needed. You can line through quite a bit of stuff. 01:55:53.680 --> 01:56:23.040 Liners are put in like they call it like a tube sock where you you turn it inside out and it's it's steam blown through the system it inflates inside the liner and then it adheres to the inside of the pipe I've done specifically myself probably close to 20 miles of lining in my career which is a lot I did a project a handful of years ago here in Freeport that we did almost nine miles we haven't in my 01:56:23.680 --> 01:56:32.820 tenure had a reinstatement issue, but if we would, that lateral would have to be dug up. The tools and the equipment that does 01:56:32.820 --> 01:56:41.400 cured in place lining has come a long way in the last 20 years. It's all robotic, and the way we do final 01:56:41.400 --> 01:56:49.300 inspections is we require all the surfaces to be reinstated, and then we do a physical closed-circuit 01:56:49.300 --> 01:57:16.680 TV camera robot that runs through the lines, looks in all the laterals, looks for wrinkles. There are repair methods if there's wrinkles. Again, lining technology has come a long ways and we haven't had near as many problems as we had 20 years ago with it or 10 years ago, excuse me, with it. Very economical. Again, Rob's statement of 10 cents on the dollars is very accurate. It might even be more than that in today's market with the expense of excavations. 01:57:16.680 --> 01:57:25.640 We did $400, almost $500,000 worth of lining this year and have had no issues whatsoever. And we actually 01:57:25.640 --> 01:57:30.260 have a lining project that's going on right now here at the end of the year. It can be done in pretty much 01:57:30.260 --> 01:57:36.500 any temperatures that are not below zero. Thank you. And I can bring in a video if you want to see it or 01:57:36.500 --> 01:57:41.900 you can Google it. It's pretty easy. We just need a sample. Yeah, and I've got sample sections of liners 01:57:41.900 --> 01:57:52.810 too. Okay. Madam Clerk, will you please take the role on the adoption of this resolution for applying for the 01:57:52.810 --> 01:58:05.310 grant? Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. Monroe. Aye. Simmons. Aye. Parker. Aye. And Stacy. Aye. The resolution is 01:58:05.310 --> 01:58:12.410 adopted. Eight to zero. Item number 22 is the adoption of resolution 2024-128. Could you please read this? 01:58:12.410 --> 01:58:19.410 Resolution authorizing the write-off of uncollectible water and sewer balances aged seven years and older. 01:58:19.810 --> 01:58:20.730 Director Richter. 01:58:21.450 --> 01:58:22.330 Thank you, Your Honor. 01:58:23.130 --> 01:58:29.570 The write-off of utility balances is necessary when a resident's balance is considered to be uncollectible. 01:58:29.570 --> 01:58:37.930 If the balances are not written off, the city will carry an accounts receivable balance that overstates the amount of outstanding customer balances. 01:58:37.930 --> 01:58:43.970 balances. By writing off these amounts yearly, we will more accurately reflect our financial position. 01:58:44.890 --> 01:58:53.930 Despite efforts to collect these outstanding balances, we propose to write off all balances prior to July 1st of 2017 at this time. 01:58:54.450 --> 01:59:03.210 This would leave seven years of balances on the books. The proposed total to be written off is $92,679.18. 01:59:03.210 --> 01:59:10.470 cents. Please note that we are able to track prior balances that have been written off in the computer system. 01:59:11.810 --> 01:59:28.430 If future utility service is requested in the name of an account that was previously written off, we will collect prior to new service starting. The resident is also required to pay a higher deposit on the new account if an old account balance was not paid. 01:59:28.430 --> 01:59:37.870 Strategic Plan Alignment is responsive, efficient government, and staff request approval of this resolution 2024. 01:59:37.870 --> 01:59:45.780 this resolution 2024-128 to write off $92,678.18 of water, sewer, storm, and garbage balances. 01:59:46.380 --> 01:59:47.980 Is there a motion to adopt? 01:59:48.240 --> 01:59:48.720 So moved. 01:59:49.140 --> 01:59:49.500 Second. 01:59:49.880 --> 01:59:52.860 Motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Schadel. 01:59:53.480 --> 01:59:56.300 Discussion on the resolution, Alderman Sanders. 01:59:56.820 --> 01:59:57.240 Go ahead. 01:59:57.240 --> 02:00:27.240 Just a question in regards to percentage-wise to residents who have not paid and want to re-establish their service. What percentage are we looking at for establishing their new service or reconnecting their service for installation? What kind of percentage are we looking at when we're talking about they will have to pay 02:00:27.240 --> 02:00:37.810 a higher cost. What are we looking at? That part about when I said they have to pay a higher deposit, 02:00:38.230 --> 02:00:45.290 how many people do we get that actually come back that left us with some? Is that kind of? We do run 02:00:45.290 --> 02:00:55.710 across it more frequently than not, but I would say maybe only one a month, you know, if that. But it does 02:00:55.710 --> 02:01:03.730 it does happen. They moved back into the community. Alderman Monroe. Madam Mayor, last year we had the same 02:01:03.730 --> 02:01:10.150 conversation and we were told that these would be collected if people tried to get them turned back 02:01:10.150 --> 02:01:18.450 on. There were names on that list that were written off that still have water service today. So my 02:01:18.450 --> 02:01:26.710 question really is starting to become, what do we do to quit writing off so much money every year 02:01:26.710 --> 02:01:55.690 I understand, you know, the deceased, I understand people going into nursing, long-term nursing care, end-of-life type situations, but I mean, there's management groups, there are finance groups, there are real estate groups, and if you go down through this, it's almost perplexing that we can't at least attempt to, I mean, we spend close to half a million dollars a year on legal for the city. 02:01:55.690 --> 02:02:26.710 it's in the budget for next year and yet we can't go after the people and charge them additional fees for you know getting this money back because the citizens of Freeport you know who are footing the bill you know we write this off this is ninety three thousand almost dollars that comes out of funds that we could have used and you know my question really becomes how do we know number one that the people aren't reconnecting water because 02:02:27.130 --> 02:02:53.590 Um, we've had instances where the water was connected and some of the names that were on the list last year are still on it this year. Um, you know, how do we know that this isn't going on? And number two, um, what are we going to change? Because this is a fundamental change inside of our government to collect this money that's owed to the city and the citizens of Freeport. 02:02:53.590 --> 02:03:07.530 This is a community-owned water service, and yet here we sit again writing off almost $100,000 again. Actually, last year it was even more. What are we going to do? 02:03:11.500 --> 02:03:12.320 Director Richter. 02:03:13.460 --> 02:03:26.960 I do agree with you. I totally agree with you, Alderman Monroe. There are some tools that have been taken out of our toolbox to get some of these 02:03:26.960 --> 02:03:58.770 funds over the past years. We don't lien property owners for tenant bills. We do have problems currently, and I only know the best over the last five years. I've really been involved with the Water Department the last five years. And like you said, some of the balances on here are because of maybe an elderly person kind of let the house go, and then it just kept going. 02:03:58.770 --> 02:04:28.770 and back during this time these amounts the CIP charges could accumulate for five years now they only accumulate for one year so you know there's there's different things that are going on during different years but I do agree I think you know we need to lean more we do send a collection 02:04:28.770 --> 02:04:52.350 to look for a different collection company that gives us better, you know, better service, but more pushes out to the customer that hasn't paid. We do send to Illinois Debt Recovery, and that takes from people's state refunds or state payments. We do do that. We do that regularly. 02:04:52.350 --> 02:05:22.330 we see the most payments back during tax season but if someone does not pay into income tax or does isn't employed by the state they're not able to collect that way if they move out of the state of Illinois I'm not able to collect that way the Illinois debt recovery only works in Illinois so we are looking for more tools in the toolbox and I would definitely be willing to you know get more options for us well then maybe that's the 02:05:22.330 --> 02:05:28.430 That's the key here. When you find something that you want to bring to council for better tools, let us know. 02:05:29.310 --> 02:05:30.610 Definitely. Definitely. 02:05:31.990 --> 02:05:32.470 Darren. 02:05:33.370 --> 02:05:51.790 From the public works standpoint, the dynamic shift here changed when we, you know, don't have landlord water meters anymore and we have rental water meters. That's part of the problem. We can't lean properties. We can't chase people all over, you know, the state of Illinois or the Midwest chasing these properties. 02:05:51.790 --> 02:06:34.590 when they're tied to landlords then we have a tangible asset that we can go after or at least lean to get our money but that will not be a very popular statement with the landlords. If there's no further discussion madam clerk please take the roll. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Oh. Are you voting? Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. 02:06:34.590 --> 02:07:06.380 Monroe? No. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. And Stacy? 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. I have 5 to 2 for the resolution to be adopted. Item number 23 is the adoption of resolution 2024-129. Could you please read this? Resolution approving agreement to purchase host server for police department from CDWG. Director Stutman. Thank you. 02:07:06.540 --> 02:07:25.660 So this is for what we are calling a host server. It's one really big computer that through software we put many virtual servers on. The current host server at the police department is beyond its useful years. We've been able to patch it up and keep it going, but it's probably time to get a new one. 02:07:25.660 --> 02:07:51.260 The budget for this, it was budgeted for this fiscal year at $30,000. It's very close to that. It's at $29,700. It comes through the IT budget. And this isn't just the hardware box, it's also the software and licensing to run these servers. I recommend approval, and I'm happy to answer any questions. 02:07:51.820 --> 02:07:53.300 Is there a motion to adopt? 02:07:54.120 --> 02:07:54.600 So moved. 02:07:54.600 --> 02:07:55.260 Second. 02:07:56.000 --> 02:08:01.820 Motion made by Alderman Shadle, seconded by Alderman Clemm. Alderman Monroe, did you have something? 02:08:02.120 --> 02:08:21.340 I do, Madam Mayor. Thank you. Curt, when I look at this, I click on the link, it doesn't really show anything other than 128 gig of memory. Can you kind of describe what this server looks like as far as like drives and arrays and so forth? 02:08:21.340 --> 02:08:51.060 Yeah, so by the time you put it in RAID, random access directories, it's come down to like 12 terabytes, 11 or 12, but there's redundancies there, so if you have OneDrive fail, you can live put a new one in, so you don't crash the whole system if OneDrive goes bad, it's also got RAM, it's probably increased the price because we have pretty good processors in it, because we do have a few applications that run on the server, so they'd be incredibly slow if it was just a storage box. 02:08:51.340 --> 02:08:56.060 so there is some processing power behind it too and then you've got your server licensing and then you needed 02:08:57.420 --> 02:09:02.220 client access servers which is super boring IT stuff but you have to be able to have the computers have the 02:09:02.220 --> 02:09:09.340 right to connect and that raises the cost and and as far as future proof how long does this because 02:09:09.340 --> 02:09:15.740 there's no no information on here i noticed the support says five years four hours support 60 02:09:15.740 --> 02:09:21.020 calls i think that's supposed to say i should have included it they had a just an excel rundown 02:09:21.020 --> 02:09:35.980 that was the details. And this comes with four-hour support 24-7. So within four hours, they're supposed to be on-site helping us. And that's for five years. So it comes with three. 02:09:35.980 --> 02:09:41.200 so it comes with three-year and then there's a two-year extended so that pretty much gets to the meat of its this new servers useful life 02:09:41.200 --> 02:09:44.120 And then we kind of take it from there. Okay, thank you 02:09:48.320 --> 02:09:54.160 Only Sanders. Yeah, of the pricing of this who's all involved in 02:09:56.300 --> 02:09:58.300 Given approval 02:09:58.760 --> 02:10:00.760 for 02:10:01.280 --> 02:10:03.280 For this particular hardware 02:10:03.280 --> 02:10:32.140 Hardware. I should have mentioned that. It's a source well bid, so it's based on the state contract, just like when other departments buy a truck, a service truck, the state goes out for bid on servers. So that's why you're only seeing the one number instead of three bids or anything like that. And the specs were determined by me and Eric, the deputy director, and asked for them to provide us a source well quote for what we needed. Does that answer your question? 02:10:32.140 --> 02:10:56.430 No. What I'm looking for, the information from the developers who's developing this software, where you're saying the state is involved, is the state involved in this particular project? Do they have any say-so in the matter, is what I'm getting at. 02:10:56.430 --> 02:11:08.270 The state's involved in determining the pricing of this. It's a main brand computer, a big computer, and the software is another big name brand. 02:11:09.710 --> 02:11:25.790 Are we, is this, this particular type of software has not been put in the system for training? Has it not, is it up for training and all of these kinds of things? 02:11:25.790 --> 02:11:57.080 This is server software. So you have, you know, like on your computer at home, you have the box. Right. And then you have windows. And then anything you run runs on top of that. This is for the second level. I think I was referring to software as well. So it's, it's that it's, it runs software, but that's really low level of what this is. This is more of the hardware. Okay. All right. If there's no, oh, Stacey. This is out of your control, but I wish this would have come to the council 02:11:57.080 --> 02:12:06.440 before this little ticket electronic gadget thing that's also costing the city money. 02:12:06.440 --> 02:12:18.560 I wish something of importance like this. Things have got to start being prioritized because you're saying they can't go without this. 02:12:20.520 --> 02:12:25.840 Correct. There'd be security inefficiencies that would come from that. 02:12:25.840 --> 02:12:34.100 But that little electronic ticket gadget thing could have weighed it out of your hands. 02:12:34.100 --> 02:12:36.660 That's more of an application. This is the infrastructure. 02:12:36.880 --> 02:12:39.900 I understand. But it's still more money. 02:12:41.480 --> 02:12:45.270 Anyone else for their first time speaking? 02:12:47.310 --> 02:12:47.970 Alderman Sanders? 02:12:48.830 --> 02:12:50.870 Yes, again, Mr. Suttman. 02:12:50.870 --> 02:13:20.850 Suttman. The security apparatus for our networking system. Who's maintaining that officially other than outside servers or clouds or whatever the case may be, if that's the tool that we're using? Could you specify any other tools that are out there that protects our network security when it comes 02:13:20.850 --> 02:13:32.570 to making sure all servers and police departments and all of these servers are efficiently used. 02:13:33.010 --> 02:13:34.210 Yeah, that's what I want to say. 02:13:34.330 --> 02:13:41.290 The security is handled by the IT department, plus we have other vendors that we have trust in. 02:13:42.290 --> 02:13:48.230 As far as specific items, I'd rather not really get into that because everybody can hear us. 02:13:48.430 --> 02:13:48.630 Yeah. 02:13:48.630 --> 02:13:55.250 to where I'd be telling bad guys what to look for, you know what I mean, but I feel very good about her 02:13:55.250 --> 02:14:01.590 security footprint, you're never going to be perfect, that's how it works, I think we're doing a good job. 02:14:06.080 --> 02:14:08.980 Okay, if there's no further discussion, Madam Clerk, please take the roll. 02:14:09.400 --> 02:14:20.560 Shadle? Aye. Sanders? Aye. Sellers? Aye. Clem? Aye. Monroe? Aye. Simmons? Aye. Parker? Aye. Stacy? Aye. 02:14:20.560 --> 02:14:50.380 the resolution is adopted eight to zero and item number 24 could you please read the approval of the bid a bid opening was held on November 26 2024 for 10 city-owned residential demolitions director Duckman thank you madam mayor the city of Freeport's posted in the journal standard on November 17th for the demolition and asbestos abatement for of 10 properties and it had a bid opening on 02:14:50.380 --> 02:15:20.220 On November 26th at 9 in the morning, staff received bids from four contractors, and I provided an analysis of the bids that were submitted, and based on that analysis, staff is recommending bids be awarded to Albert and Son, Northern Illinois Service, and Fisher Excavating, and it's a total amount of $105,430, and it breaks down where Albert and Son will be 02:15:20.220 --> 02:15:50.200 awarded $87,385 for the demolition of 16 South Johanna, 17 South Johanna, 16 East Winslow, 21 South Sherman, 420 East Winnishik, 615 South Float, 476 South Kenwood, and 824 South Liberty. Northern Illinois Services would receive $7,250 for the demolition of 725 East Winnishik, and Fisher Excavating would receive $10,795 for the demolition of 121 North Winnishik. 02:15:50.220 --> 02:16:22.310 Albert. Is there a motion to approve the bids as stated? So moved. Second. Motion made by Alderman Klemm, seconded by Alderman Sellers. Discussion on the bids. Alderman Sanders. Because I'm looking at the highest bid, Albert and, who is that again, Albert and? Son. Son. In that contract, if we decide to bid, 02:16:22.590 --> 02:16:44.850 I'll let that bid go through by council. If they are selected, will they excavate to do recapping of those services connected, or do we do it on the property, or do we do it at the main or the street or something? 02:16:44.850 --> 02:17:09.310 That's inspected and it's done at the property. Done at the property and so it's inspected then that way we know that it is something that has been capped off and that also makes sure that there's no, what I want to say, ground deterioration with water services being disconnected from these properties. 02:17:09.310 --> 02:17:16.550 Yeah, so all proper, anytime there's a demolition, our public works team does inspections for water and sewer services 02:17:16.550 --> 02:17:18.310 Okay, thank you 02:17:18.310 --> 02:17:22.380 There's no further discussion? 02:17:22.700 --> 02:17:23.500 Alderman Stacy 02:17:23.500 --> 02:17:39.000 Albert and Son, if I am not mistaken, I believe, Mayor Miller, this is your family 02:17:39.000 --> 02:17:44.100 It's a relative 02:17:44.100 --> 02:17:45.100 It's a relative 02:17:45.100 --> 02:17:46.180 Okay 02:17:46.180 --> 02:18:15.120 are they equipped to move the asbestos, how do you say it? Asbestos. Out of these buildings before, are they just tearing everything down? Are they licensed and equipped? It's all part of the requirement in the bid package. That's all, everything they do is reported to the IEPA. It's all above board and none of the contractors on here, it's all subcontracted for the abatement of asbestos. 02:18:16.180 --> 02:18:42.640 is all subcontracted? Subcontracted, correct. Some of these numbers were pretty far and few in between like 4,000 and 7,000 and how is that? I can explain that pretty easily. This is going to be 50 properties that the city of Freeport is going to demolish in 2024. That's the most we've done in three years since I've been here and I can tell you that 02:18:42.640 --> 02:18:51.200 these companies are sharpening their pencils to try to win these bids so what I notice is it kind of goes in 02:18:51.200 --> 02:18:57.660 waves it probably means just working in a construction industry my whole life I know that when a contractor 02:18:57.660 --> 02:19:02.080 is looking for work they're going to sharpen their pencils and try to win some of these bids that's 02:19:02.080 --> 02:19:08.400 pretty common in any industry but I see it in the demolition industry as well sometimes Albert and 02:19:08.400 --> 02:19:23.500 Sun hasn't won very many. In the last two, I believe, they've not won any. They've come in, they've bid, and they just haven't been the low bidder. And I know just when they come in in a lower bid like this, they're trying to get the work. 02:19:24.320 --> 02:19:28.620 What number of a crew is it going to take to tear down these houses? 02:19:28.620 --> 02:19:34.020 It's a, it's a, it's an excavator, and somebody, and a laborer, usually. They don't, I mean, say, 02:19:34.020 --> 02:20:06.280 Brewer, usually, they don't, I mean, sad to say, they don't take much, I mean, you see what they look like, you know, a lot of times, it's just, they get knocked, you push them over, and they're done, right, right, they've been abandoned for a long time, Alderman Sellers, I'd just like to make a request that any of the excavators that do the work, that we make sure that we get real grass seed down instead of weed seed, that's all my recommendation, yes, 02:20:06.280 --> 02:20:40.030 Nice grass. Thank you. Well do. Thank you. Any other first time? If not, Alderman Sanders? Yes. On top of that, it's going to be a lot of empty property in the event we're taking care of those, right? We're responsible for those properties and the seeding and the grass maintaining and all of these other stuff to keep up the beautification of those residential neighborhoods. 02:20:40.050 --> 02:21:19.940 and whatever wherever they're located that that is part of our requirement or is that just something part of our ordinance that's one that is in our ordinance and it's the eight same eight inch requirement when it's eight inches city staff goes around and mows it. Okay. Okay. Got you. Thank you. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadle. Aye. Sanders. Aye. Sellers. Aye. Clem. Aye. Monroe. Aye. 02:21:19.940 --> 02:21:49.780 Parker? Aye. Stacey? Aye. The motion passes 8-0. Reports of department heads, finance? Nothing, Your Honor. Thank you. Community development? Nothing tonight, Madam Mayor. Thank you. Public works? Nothing. Thank you. Fire? Yes, thank you, Madam Mayor. Over the Thanksgiving weekend, holiday fire department was busy. Besides the several medical calls we responded to and 02:21:49.780 --> 02:22:15.540 and a few car crashes. Notable calls we had were two residential structure fires within a 24-hour time frame. Both of them at this time are believed to be cooking-related. The first house had damage confined to one wall, initiated with an outdoor cooking grill. The second house we had was a total loss. 02:22:15.540 --> 02:22:26.700 So my message to the public is please be careful cooking and make sure you have working smoke detectors in your dwelling 02:22:26.700 --> 02:22:29.140 Police 02:22:29.140 --> 02:22:32.440 Nothing from the police department 02:22:32.440 --> 02:22:33.200 Thank you 02:22:33.200 --> 02:22:33.620 IT 02:22:33.620 --> 02:22:36.700 And city manager 02:22:36.700 --> 02:22:43.700 Just one thing, Your Honor, I just wanted to point out that the woodlot on Walnut Avenue is temporarily closed 02:22:43.700 --> 02:23:13.680 We're working with the timber industries and I think we have a tentative understanding moving forward so I don't I can't give you a specific time but I think we'll be able to move forward pretty soon here and have that reopened for everybody to access. I have nothing new to report. Alderman Shadle. I just would like to add on to Chief Miller's that if finances are tight we still install fire smoke alarms. 02:23:13.700 --> 02:23:26.460 Yes, we do. Call Central Station and our staff will reach out to you and make an appointment to come in and install free, working smoke detectors. Thank you. There's no reason not to. 02:23:27.580 --> 02:23:28.540 Alderman Sanders? 02:23:28.540 --> 02:23:50.260 Yeah, Director Boyer, I wanted to thank you for allowing me to understand what the finish line is going to look like on Adams Street. When it comes to the water main situation, I hope that it's all covered and taken care of. 02:23:50.260 --> 02:24:08.600 I don't know if we have a deadline for that or not, but if so, I would love for that to be shared with the council and the public as well when we have a tentative expectations for that to happen. 02:24:08.600 --> 02:24:20.560 That's all I want to report is the fact that we're making head waves to get that finalized and that we will go through the finalizing of it. 02:24:20.560 --> 02:24:31.580 Yeah, we're hoping to have it all paved by end of day Saturday of this week. We'll still have some dirt work that might spill over to the spring, but the rest of it should essentially be done. 02:24:32.360 --> 02:24:34.320 Thank you. Alderman Sellers. 02:24:34.320 --> 02:25:03.240 The only thing that I would like to, I would like us to add a fee to the ordinances that are not done correctly, if we can work something out, because if we're going to go after landlords for not doing what they're supposed to be doing, and we need to make people follow the ordinances that we have on the books, and if they're not following them, I think that we should put some kind of fine out there to let them know that 02:25:03.240 --> 02:25:06.120 You can't just do it and then come back and then change it. 02:25:06.160 --> 02:25:10.460 So I would like to see something put on the books that there's a fine for that. 02:25:12.260 --> 02:25:13.700 We can work on like a penalty. 02:25:14.140 --> 02:25:21.760 You know, if you do things out of order, it's a classic thing where people will do something, sometimes unintentionally, and then they ask for forgiveness. 02:25:22.180 --> 02:25:31.100 So in those situations, most communities, as Wayne indicated, you know, they'll double the permit fee then if you have to do it out of order or something. 02:25:31.220 --> 02:25:33.280 So we can look into bumping that up or something. 02:25:33.280 --> 02:25:34.280 I would like to see that. 02:25:34.400 --> 02:25:35.160 Okay, thank you. 02:25:35.440 --> 02:25:35.920 Alderman Clem? 02:25:36.220 --> 02:25:37.040 Nothing, Your Honor. 02:25:37.520 --> 02:25:38.080 Alderman Monroe? 02:25:38.340 --> 02:25:39.100 Nothing, Your Honor. 02:25:39.620 --> 02:25:40.180 Alderman Simmons? 02:25:40.620 --> 02:25:41.480 I don't have anything. 02:25:41.900 --> 02:25:42.460 Alderman Park? 02:25:42.740 --> 02:25:43.380 Nothing, Your Honor. 02:25:43.880 --> 02:25:44.540 Alderman Stacy? 02:25:47.560 --> 02:25:50.060 A $100 fine would be a slap on the hand. 02:25:51.140 --> 02:25:57.440 Maybe they need to consider putting up the little building that you suggested that they didn't want to do. 02:26:00.520 --> 02:26:02.040 And we'll move on to public comment. 02:26:02.260 --> 02:26:03.540 We're in for public comment. 02:26:04.360 --> 02:26:04.720 Tommy? 02:26:04.720 --> 02:26:16.930 Jodi Miller, I'm going to the tournament on Saturday at Dubuque. 02:26:19.210 --> 02:26:20.090 Are you running? 02:26:20.770 --> 02:26:23.210 No, I'm making the basketball. 02:26:23.970 --> 02:26:25.230 Well, good for you, Tommy. 02:26:25.230 --> 02:26:27.810 Stacy, you did good job. 02:26:27.810 --> 02:27:07.420 Speak. And during Dickman was about that thing, the Jersey Mikes. Jersey Mikes. We're all excited about Jersey Mikes. It's coming, hopefully. Is there any other public comments this evening? Thank you, Madam Mayor and Council. First off, thank you, Alderman Sellers. I completely agree with the fines there that we need to do something, which leads me to this. 02:27:07.440 --> 02:27:37.420 I want to address here. By your votes tonight, you've sent a clear message to all of us here in Freeport that we are all, that we are free to act without asking for permission first and simply seek forgiveness later. Specifically, I'd like to address the case of Mr. and Mrs. Nelson, who have lived in their home for 22 years and contribute, who, according to current tax records, contributed $2,300 annually in property taxes. 02:27:37.440 --> 02:27:46.260 They followed the rules, asked for permission, and requested to install solar panels in their backyard, yet despite their compliance, their request was denied 02:27:46.260 --> 02:27:56.260 However, shortly after, right after, you gave AVP Real Estate, based in St. Charles, Illinois, permission to ignore the same rules 02:27:56.260 --> 02:28:04.160 This company purchased this land for $7,000 just two years ago, paying less than $300 annually in property taxes 02:28:04.160 --> 02:28:09.340 What message does this send to our residents who follow the rules and contribute to the community? 02:28:09.840 --> 02:28:16.420 So I ask, if the Nelsons choose to go ahead and install those solar panels, are you going to show them the same grace and forgive them? 02:28:19.370 --> 02:28:20.670 Are there any other public comments? 02:28:22.650 --> 02:28:24.990 Seeing none, I'll entertain a motion for adjournment. 02:28:25.130 --> 02:28:25.650 So moved. 02:28:26.210 --> 02:28:26.570 Second. 02:28:26.870 --> 02:28:29.410 The motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadle. 02:28:29.590 --> 02:28:31.510 All those in favor, signify by saying aye. 02:28:31.690 --> 02:28:32.050 Aye. 02:28:32.130 --> 02:28:32.330 Aye. 02:28:32.730 --> 02:28:33.430 Have a good evening. 02:28:33.430 --> 02:28:44.640 Nice, thank you, sir