The Rock Island City Council met in reconvened session at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, December 9, 2002, in the Personnel Conference Room of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, David R. Conroy, John E. Bauersfeld, Vern L. Winter, Evelyn “Evie” R. White and Frank J. Forlini, Jr. Alderman Beth Y. Mahlo was absent. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips, Community and Economic Development Department Director Greg Champagne, Public Works Director Bob Hawes, Chief of Police Terry Dove, Personnel Director/Assistant to the City Manager John Thorson, and Public Works Administrative Assistant Tim Ridder. Also present was Dan Carmody of Renaissance Rock Island.
City Manager John C. Phillips distributed some basic information about the Property Taxes for the Public Hearing to be held at the regular meeting.
A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman White to recess to Executive Session on matters of Property Acquisition CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 5:25 p.m.
Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Dan Carmody, of Renaissance Rock Island, responded to questions from Council concerning the Plaza Renovations that were on the Agenda. He noted that the trees that will remain are those in front of La Canasta. Mayor Schwiebert asked about the brick sidewalks, noting that several people complained about the first ones that were put in downtown. Bob Hawes, Public Works Director, stated that the new ones are flatter with much less of an indentation. He stated that they are more user-friendly than the first ones. Mr. Carmody stated that the District is proposing to purchase two canopies for use during events. Council discussed the placement of the brick sidewalk in the center of the Plaza going out from Arts Alley. Mr. Carmody explained the purpose of this, stating that it is more decorative than functional.
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Conroy to adjourn the meeting CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
_____________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk
The Rock Island City Council met in regular session at 6:45 p.m. on Monday, December 9, 2002, in the Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, David R. Conroy, John E. Bauersfeld, Vern L. Winter, Evelyn “Evie” R. White and Frank J. Forlini, Jr. Alderman Beth Y. Mahlo was absent.
Mayor Schwiebert called the meeting to Order and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderman Winter gave the Invocation. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Forlini to approve the Minutes of the meeting of November 25, 2002, as printed, CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #6
Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 6:50 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing regarding the proposed 2002 Property Tax Levy.
Finance Director Bill Scott reviewed the proposed Property Tax Levy in the amount of $9,616,228.00, noting that this is a total of the budgeted amounts determined to be necessary to be raised by taxation for the fiscal year of the City of Rock Island. He indicated that the property tax rate of $2.54 will not change with the proposed levy. The amount of property tax that the city receives has shown a steady decline in constant dollars. Mr. Scott then compared the property tax rates for the city to that of the school district and other taxing districts, including Rock Island County, Rock Island Township, Black Hawk College #503, Quad City Airport and the Metropolitan Transit Authority. He noted that he city has made a significant effort to control the tax levy and reduce the property tax rate. He added that the school district has the greatest share of the total city property tax rate and levy.
Mr. Scott briefly discussed the budget, noting that it is an ongoing working process. He stated that the greatest increase is in Personnel, which includes the Health Insurance costs, as well as Police and Fire Pension costs. The health insurance has gone up 12.19% and the pension costs have gone up 15.07%. Mr. Scott stated that the Property Tax Levy Ordinance would be on the Agenda for adoption December 23. Following that, it can be decreased but not increased. He indicated that the budget would be presented to the Council on February 10, followed by two Saturday budget meetings on February 22 and March 1.
City Manager John C. Phillips stated that the budget would be discussed next Monday during Study Session. He noted that the staff has looked at reducing or eliminating some of the services, increasing fees and transferring funds from Capital.
There were no other persons present to speak on the Property Tax Levy.
Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:05 p.m.
Agenda Item #7
3431
14 AVENUE/SPECIAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT
Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 7:05 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a request from Mark Sersland for an amendment to an existing Special Use Permit at 3431 14th Avenue to substitute a photography studio for the space that was to have been occupied by an expanded AFLAC insurance office.
Mark Sersland, 1218 37th Street, spoke to Council regarding his request. He stated that he owns the property at 3431 14th Avenue, and AFLAC had the first option to expand their office. They have forfeited their option because they are not ready for expansion at this time. Mr. Sersland stated that Gary Olson, local photographer, has indicated a desire to expand his business to this location. Mayor Schwiebert asked if he understood and agreed with the stipulations, and Mr. Sersland responded that he did.
Alderman White commended Mr. Sersland for his work in cleaning up the property.
Gary Olson spoke about wanting to have his photography studio in this building. He noted that 80% of his business is not done on site, but rather at weddings and other locations. He indicated that people do come to the office to review the pictures, hire him, etc. He also stated that he is familiar with the stipulations.
Richard Fislar, 3430 14th Avenue, spoke in opposition to the Special Use Permit. He indicated that Mr. Sersland is operating five commercial businesses out of the one building. He stated that there has been no additional parking added, and the previous owner is the one who did the cleaning up of the property. He stated that this is spot zoning, and should not be done in a residential area. He also objected to the lights being on outside from noon to 8:00 p.m. while the business is scheduled to be open. He stated that there are other neighbors who object, but they are elderly and could not attend the meeting. He suggested no lighted signs and shorter hours for the business. He stated that the business at this location would reduce their property values, and urged Council to deny the Special Use Permit.
Mr. Sersland responded to the objections of Mr. Fislar, stating that he currently has one commercial business in the building – that of AFLAC Insurance Company. He rents out the upstairs to his sister, who manages the building for him. He hopes to rent the front of the building to the photography studio, and stated that he does not do his carpentry business from this building. He indicated that he has been doing a lot of remodeling inside the building, and is doing the work himself. He plans to put on a new roof and a new parking lot as soon as he has the money.
Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing, reconvened the regular meeting at 7:20 p.m. and entertained a motion. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Brooks to approve the request with the stipulations stated and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #8
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance vacating a segment of the north/south alley between 4th and 5th Avenues and 21st and 22nd Streets. A motion was made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Winter to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance. Alderman Forlini stated that he has been studying the statute and it clearly indicates that a public hearing needs to be held for an alley vacation, and this has not been done. He added that notices have not been sent out to the neighboring property owners. He suggested that this be deferred for two weeks to give the Assistant City Attorney the opportunity to review this.
The motion to DEFER to December 23, made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Forlini, CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #9
606 11
STREET, 63- 11 STREET/PROPERTY ACQUISITION
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance authorizing acquisition of property at 606 11th Street and 630 11th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Conroy to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #10
MUTUAL
AID BOX ALARM SYSTEM/AGREEMENT
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance authorizing a Mutual Aid Box Alarm System Agreement in the City of Rock Island. Alderman Bauersfeld inquired what this is for. City Manager John C. Phillips explained that the Council approved the Fire Department to participate in this several weeks ago, but the ordinance did not get written at that time.
Fire Chief Al Sinksen explained that this is a mutual aid agreement that allows fire departments to offer aid to neighboring cities in case of large disasters. He explained how this would be used in case of any type of disaster. He stated that the only time it would be mandatory to respond was if the governor required it. He also noted that the city would receive benefits from the participation in the form of training as well as equipment. In response to questions about the Police Department participation, Chief Sinksen stated that this was for Fire and Ambulance. City Manager John Phillips stated that the Police Chiefs are talking about it, but have not made any decisions yet.
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Winter to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #11a
The City Clerk read a statement from the City Attorney in the amount of $6,926.97 for legal services for the month of November.
Agenda
Item #11b
MISSMAN
STANLEY AND ASSOCIATES/PARKING STRUCTURE
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Missman, Stanley and Associates in the amount of $7,787.60 for the 16th Street and 3rd Avenue Parking Structure Restoration.
Agenda Item #11c
SHIVE-HATTERY/3
AVENUE RESURFACING-REHABILITATION PROJECT
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Shive-Hattery in the amount of $24,218.93 for the 3rd Avenue Resurfacing/Rehabilitation Project.
Agenda Item #11d
ECONOMY
ROOFING/CITY HALL, POLICE STATION
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Economy Roofing in the amount of $14,145.00 for roof repair to City Hall and the Police Station.
Agenda Item #11e
COCHRAN
COMPRESSOR COMPANY/COMPRESSOR
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Cochran Compressor Company in the amount of $3,470.76 for a compressor for the Wastewater Plant.
Agenda Item #11f
MEYER
LANDSCAPE/2002 LANDSCAPING PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Meyer Landscape in the amount of $9,012.75 for the 2002 Landscaping Program.
Agenda Item #11g
SENG/TAX
REBATE
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department recommending a rebate of 30% of the city taxes to Dr. Joseph Seng in the amount of $1,869.60 per agreement.
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Forlini to separate Item #11g from the rest CARRIED on a Voice vote.
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Winter to accept the reports and authorize payments for Items #a through #f as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Alderman White noted that there has been a lot of vandalism at the bottom of the Villa property, and she has seen no improvements to the building that were promised. She stated that the building is being rented out, but the parking lot has not been completed. Greg Champagne, Community and Economic Development Department Director, stated that this is the sixth year of the rebate that was part of the ten-year agreement. He stated that the agreement requires minimal investments be made to the property, and Dr. Seng has done this.
A motion by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Brooks to DEFER this item for two weeks CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #12
NOVEMBER
22 – DECEMBER 5
The City Clerk read the claims for the weeks of November 22 through December 5 in the amount of $2,246,327.10. A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Conroy to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
PAYROLL
Agenda Item #13
NOVEMBER
11 – 24
The City Clerk read the payroll for the weeks of November 11 through 24 in the amount of $860,747.02.
|
GENERAL FUND |
578,971.68 |
|
KING CENTER |
2,861.59 |
|
FEDERAL COPS GRANT |
3,883.22 |
|
COMMUNITY DEV. BLOCK GRANT |
20,524.81 |
|
LIBRARY |
37,573.23 |
|
ELDERLY SERVICE CONTRIBUTION |
591.33 |
|
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS |
13,913.98 |
|
WATER |
51,309.23 |
|
SEWER |
40,419.68 |
|
BRIDGE |
7,847.41 |
|
SUNSET MARINA |
7,330.55 |
|
PARK AND RECREATION |
56,857.59 |
|
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE |
21,669.93 |
|
SELF INSURANCE |
12,538.55 |
|
EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE |
599.34 |
|
CAFETERIA PLAN |
7,029.27 |
|
MLK ACTIVITY FUND |
4,556.96 |
|
DRUG PREVENTION |
3,268.65 |
|
TOTAL |
860,747.02 |
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Winter to allow the payroll CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
BIDS/PURCHASES
Agenda Item #14
NORTH
AMERICAN SALT COMPANY/ROCK SALT
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a State of Illinois Joint Purchase of rock salt for the 2002/2003 winter season, recommending the bid of North American Salt Company at the unit price of $31.54 per ton. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Conroy to award the bid and authorize purchase as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #15
GEM
ELECTRONICS/RADIOS
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for two-way radios, recommending that the City cancel the bid award to ILLOWA Communications in the amount of $1,555.80 for three hand-held radios, and award the bid for these three radios to GEM Electronics in the amount of $1,775.25. Alderman Winter noted that this amount was over and above the amount that was bid, and Mr. Hawes responded that the bid from GEM was the second lowest bid. He stated that ILLOWA was not able to provide these three radios after they first thought they could. Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to award the bid and authorize purchase as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: Alderman Conroy.
CONTRACTS/AGREEMENTS
Agenda Item #16
R
I HOUSING AUTHORITY/LEASE AGREEMENT FOR RADIO ANTENNA
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a lease with the Rock Island Housing Authority for the placement of radio repeater antenna at 24th Street water tower. Alderman Winter stated that he would be abstaining from this vote. Alderman Bauersfeld suggested that the Housing Authority look at purchasing some portable phones with the walkie-talkie feature, and Alderman Winter stated that they would look into this.
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Forlini to approve the lease agreement and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, White and Forlini. NAYS: None. ABSTAIN: Alderman Winter.
Agenda Item #17
SUNSET
MARINA/MASTER PLAN
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding the Sunset Marina Master Plan, proposing the implementation of the following eight recommendations:
a. Use the Sunset Marina Master Plan prepared by the Abonmarche Group as the guide for future improvements to the Sunset Marina;
b. Authorize the staff to negotiate with the US Army Corps of Engineers concerning the relocation of the harbor entrance;
c. Authorize the staff to submit applications for the state and federal permits required to implement the Sunset Marina Master Plan;
d. Authorize the design of the dredging project and the upland improvements recommended in Phase I of the Master Plan;
e. Direct the staff to prepare future Sunset Marina budgets with the assumption that the Sunset Marina Fund will maintain a cash reserve equal to ninety (90) days of operating expenditures and all other surplus funds except programmed set asides for Sunset Marina capital improvements will be transferred to the Capital Improvements Fund at the end of the annual audit process;
f. Authorize the staff to increase the rates for slip rentals, boat storage and marina services by ten (10) percent effective on January 1, 2003;
g. Authorize the staff to conduct a pre-leasing program for the new slips recommended for construction in Phase 1; and
h. Authorize the staff to negotiate a contract with The Abonmarche Group for preparation of the dredging specifications, design of the upland improvements, assistance with the state and federal permitting process, and assistance with negotiations concerning the harbor entrance relocation. The staff will submit the proposed services contract with the Abonmarche Group to the City Council for approval as soon as the contract negotiations are complete.
A motion was made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Forlini to authorize staff to implement the eight proposed recommendations.
Steve Schwindt, 1510 35 Avenue, and a member of the Sunset Marina Steering Committee, spoke to Council regarding their recommendations. He indicated that the other members of the committee were Aldermen Bauersfeld and Forlini, Rick Cassini and Public Works Director Bob Hawes. He noted that the committee played an active role in the master plan preparation, as well as providing overall guidance during the process. He stated that the committee supports the concept of the future Sunset Marina as envisioned by the Abonmarche Group, and recommended that the Council approve the eight recommendations.
Mr. Schwindt stated that the pre-leasing program would begin as quickly as possible and the results would be presented to the City Council by March 2003. The Steering Committee recommended a non-refundable deposit of $500.00 to secure one of the new slips. This deposit would be credited towards the lease charge when the customer executes a lease for one of the new slips and refunded only if the City decides not to construct the slip envisioned by the deposit. He added that the final design of the new docks would not begin until the demand for the new slips has been confirmed and authorized by the City Council. He stated that the design should begin by April 2003 in order to have new slips available for the 2004 boating season. He suggested that any additional construction phases and future locations of the fuel dock and the 100 Dock can be made later, based upon the results of the pre-leasing program. He further suggested that staff will work on a partnership with the US Corps of Engineers for the relocation of the harbor entrance, and will continue to seek a commitment for the next harbor dredging. He stated that if this effort is successful, the amount of the proposed bond issue could be reduced accordingly.
Mr. Hawes talked about the pre-leasing, stating that the number of larger slips will depend on the market. He added that the lift-and-set for smaller boats is very popular in the Quad Cities, and they are trying to address what the market is today as well as what it will be in the future. Mayor Schwiebert suggested that they keep in mind that this is an enterprise fund. He added that it is a public Marina and not a yacht club. He stated that the small boats should not be excluded. Mr. Schwindt stated that the recommendations tonight were to pre-lease the slips for larger boats, and if the response was very limited, the larger slips would not be built.
Alderman Winter stated that he was bothered by the report that seems to be premised on a market study that is less than perfect. Alderman Forlini stated that any improvement would be made cautiously, with each phase having an open meeting before the City Council. He stated that any evolving plans would dependent on the market. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that they will be cautiously moving forward, and Alderman Forlini added that the plan is basically an outline. He noted that some of the things might be skipped over and not done at all.
Alderman Conroy stated that the Marina is near capacity, and looking at the future, will have to expand to provide for future uses. He stated that the pre-sell feature is unique and he supports Phase I.
Bill Stengel, a member of the Boaters Advisory Committee, spoke on behalf of the Committee. He stated that the people with the large boats do not want to come to Rock Island. He added that the challenge is the $500 pre-leasing cost. He suggested the minimum pre-leasing fee to test the market should be 50% of the lease rate, and this will give a more reliable indication of the desire for larger slips.
Alderman Winter stated that the recommendations of the Sunset Marina Boaters Advisory Committee were similar to those of the Steering Committee.
Laura Ritchie, 701 East 5th Street, Coal Valley, urged Council to consider a higher pre-leasing fee, stating that $500.00 is not enough. She stated that the fee needs to be high enough for serious consideration, and many people would be able to put up the $500.00 and then leave it. She also suggested that more thought be put into some transient slips being place in a downtown Marina location. She asked why the plan was presented to the public before it was presented to the Boaters Advisory Committee. She also expressed concern about not being able to reuse things that have already been added. She suggested putting the plan on hold and looking at other alternatives. She also suggested that Council walk the Marina and added that moving the gas dock does not make any sense. She presented a petition with 187 signatures of boaters requesting the Council to delay the vote on acceptance of the Master Plan, as well as suggesting that a joint committee of City representatives and representatives of the affected boaters be formed to study the plan in more detail.
Jack and Peggy Nightingale spoke to Council about the report, stating that the City Manager should be in charge of the Marina. They suggested leaving the Marina as it is, and use in-house man-hours to make the changes. Mr. Nightingale spoke in opposition to the 10% increase, suggesting that it be split over the next three years. He stated that there should be no rush to do this work at this time, and it is too late for dredging. Peggy Nightingale stated that out of 23 boaters present at a recent event, 12 plan to leave Sunset Marina. She urged Council to go slow with the plans for change, and to continue pursuing customer satisfaction.
Brad Carroll, 2621 31st Avenue, stated that he agrees with a higher deposit for the new slips. He suggested requiring half the payment due February 15 and the other half due March 15. He referred to a waiting list, stating that many on the list were from 1989. He expressed his opposition to moving the fuel dock, and suggested that a slow cautious approach is best. He stated that the lift and set is not a bad idea, but not the best idea either. He added that the 400 dock needs repair and/or replacement.
Mayor Schwiebert suggested that, because of the number of persons who may wish to speak, everyone confine their comments to five minutes.
Bob Towler, 4232 8th Street, expressed concern about the open space. He stated that with the lake filled with boats, there would be less opportunity for the Backwater Gamblers and other events to occur at Sunset Park. He stated that the walkers enjoy the open space, and this is still needed at the Marina.
Gary Kraemer, 3408 20th Street Court, stated that the study seems to be at great odds with the consultant. He asked the Council who they would listen to in March if the pre-sale proved to be low. Alderman Conroy stated that he would need to see at least forty-five persons signed up for the pre-sale. He added that the Marina does need to have the dredging done and the landscaping improvements made. Alderman Winter questioned Number 8 of the recommendations. Mr. Hawes responded, stating that The Abonmarche Group should be retained at this time because they would be able to assist with permits and the relocation of the entrance. He stated that it is important to retain this consultant, but if Council wished to have a different consultant, they could solicit bids again and go through the process. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that this group had the best background of the other consultants.
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Winter to increase the $500.00 pre-leasing fee to 50% of the lease rate for the new slips CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
The main motion, to authorize staff to implement the eight proposed recommendations, as amended, CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #18
GREAT
RIVER PLAZA RENOVATIONS/APPROVAL
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding the Great River Plaza Renovations, recommending that the Council approve the Fiscal Year allocation of $992,125.00, the design recommendation made in the letter from Renaissance Rock Island with exceptions noted, and direct the Engineering Division to proceed with the preparation of the construction drawings. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Winter to approve the allocation of $992,125.00, design recommendations with exceptions noted, and direct the Engineering Division to proceed with the preparation of the construction drawings as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Agenda Item #19
2640
BLACKHAWK ROAD/SITE PLAN REVIEW
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the Riverfront Corridor Overlay District Site Plan Review Request at 2640 Blackhawk Road. (NOTE: This item was on the Agenda of November 11, and was removed at the request of G & J Building Company – no motion was made on the floor at that time.) A motion was made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Winter to accept the plan as presented.
Alderman Bauersfeld stated that the properties owned by Mr. Stroud were aesthetically pleasing, and he has shown by his track record that he does what he says. Alderman White stated that the storage garages she sees going from Moline to Coal Valley are not an attractive entrance to Moline and will not be an attractive entrance to the City of Rock Island. She stated that this is not the highest and best use for the City, and she has not seen any attractive storage areas.
Alderman Winter stated that he agrees that storage units are not the highest and best use for the property, but he will support the installation of them. He stated that property owners have rights as well as responsibility, and this is not an unreasonable use of the property. Alderman Conroy stated that he would probably vote against this, but he has seen what Mr. Stroud has done with his other property along Blackhawk Road, and he should be able to do what he wants with property he owns.
Don Stroud, 1423 32 Avenue, stated that he has tried to market this property without success. Mayor Schwiebert stated that the properties look nice, and suggested that he continue to look for an alternative use for the site.
Gary Segal, 12 Deere Run, one of the owners of G &J, stated that retail growth is not in Rock Island, and this storage area will benefit the people of the city. Mayor Schwiebert stated that there has not been dramatic growth in retail in Rock Island but there has been some. He stated that they might regret this decision because it will have a negative impact on other businesses. Alderman Forlini expressed his support for this project.
Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Winter to accept the plan as presented CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter and Forlini. NAYS: Aldermen Brooks and White.
Agenda Item #20
WATCH
TOWER THIRD ADDITION/FINAL PLAT
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a review of a final plat of Watch Tower Third Addition, recommending approval of the final plat subject to submittal of the signed Owners, Surveyors and County Clerk Certificates. A motion made by Alderman Winter and seconded by Alderman White to approve the final plat subject to stipulations as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #21
3200
8 STREET/REZONING, SITE PLAN
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a rezoning and site plan review request from I-1 to R-6 at approximately 3200 8th Street. Alderman Bauersfeld spoke in opposition to this rezoning, stating that it could be used for light industrial. Alderman Winter stated that there is public housing across the street and this seems to be a reasonable extension of this type of housing.
Tom Dalton, 61 Barrington Circle, Hampton, stated that the site has merits. He stated that the trucking industry is downsizing and this is an outdated type of use. He stated that Western Illinois Agency on Aging is across the street, and eliminating the trucks from the area will be a big factor. He stated that the building there now is an eyesore, and the developer plans to invest five to six million dollars on the site. He noted that it will house 150 residents, and could create seventy to eighty jobs. Alderman White asked if they would have supportive living services and provide dining services. Sigmund Lefkovitz, developer of the project, responded to questions. He noted that the apartment units would have no open flames. The Administrator would give out any prescribed medications at the appropriate time. He stated that each apartment unit would have a small kitchen with a microwave oven.
A motion made by Alderman Winter and seconded by Alderman Forlini to approve the rezoning and site plan as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy and Winter. NAYS: Aldermen Bauersfeld, White and Forlini. Mayor Schwiebert broke the tie vote by voting AYE.
Agenda Item #22
2210,
2232 12 STREET/REZONING, SITE PLAN
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a rezoning and site plan review request from B-1 to R-4 at 2210 and 2232 12th Street. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he had not received any calls one way or the other on this rezoning.
A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Brooks to approve the rezoning and site plan as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #23
4205
14 STREET/SIDEWALK REMOVAL
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a request to remove an existing sidewalk in front of 4205 14th Street, recommending that the request be approved pending stipulations that the sidewalk removal be done by a contractor who is bonded to work in the City Right of Way, and that the landscaping plan be submitted to the Engineering Division for approval before the work is done. Mike Thoms was in the audience, and indicated that he understood the stipulations and was in agreement with them. A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman White to approve the removal of the sidewalk with stipulations stated CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
TRAFFIC
ENGINEERING/PARKING
Agenda Item #24
2530
28 STREET/HANDICAPPED PARKING
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request for a Handicapped Parking Space in front of 2530 28th Street. A motion made by Alderman Winter and seconded by Alderman White to approve the request as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
PERMITS/LICENSES
Agenda Item #25
TRACTOR
RUN/DECEMBER 15
The City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding an application for a Tractor Run on Big Island Road to be held Sunday, December 15 at 11:00 a.m. A motion made by Alderman Winter and seconded by Alderman White to approve the event CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
ITEMS FROM THE CITY MANAGER’ S MEMORANDUM (Nothing for discussion.)
OTHER
BUSINESS
LEAF
BURNING
Alderman Winter indicated that he received a telephone call from a resident regarding a neighbor who burns past dusk. He asked if there was a difference between sundown and dusk. Fire Chief Al Sinksen responded and explained the Burn Ordinance.
Alderman Winter stated that the resident suggested a specific time such as 4:00 p.m. to stop burning. Mr. Sinksen will prepare a report to clarify how the ordinance can best be applied.
SALT
LAKE CITY
Alderman Brooks spoke briefly about his trip to Salt Lake City. He indicated that he brought back some useful information that he gave to Mr. Champagne. He stated that the topics discussed there were on Homeland Security as well as budgets.
RECESS
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to recess to Monday, December 16 at 5:00 p.m. CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 9:50 p.m.
_____________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk