The Rock Island City Council met in Study Session at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 26, 2004, in the Personnel Conference Room of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Pro-tem/Alderman David R Conroy, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, John E. Bauersfeld, Jr., Daniel Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White and Ann L. Keefe. Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert and Alderman Frank J. Forlini, Jr. were absent. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips, Public Works Department Director Bob Hawes, Community and Economic Development Department Director Greg Champagne, Personnel Director/Assistant to the City Manager John Thorson, Finance Director Bill Scott, Information Technology Services Director Claire Dubuisson, Public Works Assistant Director Tim Ridder, Grant and Website Coordinator Lisa Ahern, Public Works Municipal Services Superintendent George Seiz, Network Administrator Tim Bain, Technical Services Manager Randy Tweet, and Accountant Tim Banks. Also present was Jennifer Fowler, Community Marketing Director.
City Manager John Phillips distributed information from Mayor Schwiebert regarding the Sales Tax and the Plaza Use Proposed Changes, along with e-mails from citizens regarding downtown parking and the sales tax. He noted that the items on the Agenda for Riverstone are specifically requesting permission to apply for a Special Use Permit, and a public hearing would be scheduled for a later date. He asked that Council review their schedules and let him know of any scheduled absences for February and March.
Alderman Bauersfeld commented on the report regarding the contracted services. He indicated that the staff covered most of the contracts he had suggested for review. He stated that, without cutting services or increasing the payroll, it does not look like we can change or do these contracts in-house. He expressed appreciation to the staff for putting this information together for Council to review.
Alderman Bauersfeld also stated that he had received calls from residents who indicated that they were tired of property taxes being increased and suggested cutting services. He noted that this is the first time since he started serving on the Council that he has heard this from residents. Alderman Conroy stated that he had heard the same comments, noting that the residents seemed to understand the reason for the shortfall, but would prefer services cut to an increase in taxes.
Alderman Keefe noted that people in her Ward would like the Nuisance Abatement Officer to be hired full-time. City Manager John Phillips stated that the Inspection Division still responds to complaints, but the Nuisance Abatement Officer was able to be more pro-active. He noted that residents should still call with any nuisance complaints and the Inspection Division will address them. Alderman Conroy asked about the Public Works comments where it states, “the Public Works Department has the expertise but not the time to do this in-house.” Public Works Director Bob Hawes stated that much of this work is seasonal in nature, and if they hired full-time persons to do this, they would need to find other work the rest of the year for them. Hiring seasonal workers on contract allows them to work until the season is over, without the city paying unemployment benefits for them.
Finance Director Bill Scott reviewed the Financial Report, noting that a Replacement Tax check was received recently. He indicated that a State Tax Amnesty Program allowed the city to receive this check that is more than the budget indicated. He also stated that the Telecommunication Tax has exceeded the projected amount. He stated that because of these tax amounts received, Council might want to decrease the Property Tax Levy that was passed in December. He noted that this could be discussed further at the first budget session on Saturday, February 28.
IT MASTER PLAN
Claire Dubuisson, Information Technology Services Department Director, reviewed the IT Master Plan. She introduced the members of her staff who were present for this session – Tim Bain, Mark Nenninger and Colleen Wiemerslage-Bromley. She noted that the Master Plan charts the road map for Information Technology Services related efforts and serves to do the following: refresh the information systems vision for the organization; align IS planning activity with City and department objectives; focus on maximizing our information systems investment; prepare the resources required for the plan’s implementation; and to ensure consistent, secure, reliable data and systems through the managed development of information technology initiatives throughout the organization. She stated that the Customer Board of Users has approved the Master Plan for presentation to the Council.
Tim Bain, Network Administrator, reviewed some of the future issues, and discussed the renewal of some contracts that will be coming up. He noted that there is a team working on these contracts to determine whether or not to renew them again. Mr. Bain pointed out maps indicating the number of off-sites as well as the number of users at each site. In regard to the telephone contracts, Alderman Conroy asked that Council be kept informed on the progress of these discussions as they occur.
Lisa Ahern, Webmaster, reviewed the revised City Website, and noted that Colleen Wiemerslage-Bromley does the technical work on the website. Alderman Conroy asked for more pictures in connection with the Headline section. Following her presentation, Randy Tweet, Technical Services Manager at Public Works, presented a demonstration of the Govern Licensing/Permit system and how it works along with the GIS system.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to adjourn the meeting CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. 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, January 26, 2004, in the Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Pro-tem/Alderman David R Conroy, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, John E. Bauersfeld, Jr., Daniel Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White and Ann L. Keefe. Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert and Alderman Frank J. Forlini, Jr. were absent.
Mayor Pro-tem Conroy called the meeting to Order and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderman Rockwell gave the Invocation. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the Minutes of the meeting of January 19 as printed CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Mr. Hodge reviewed his request, indicating that there were three apartments in the building when he purchased the business in August 2001 from Richard and Kitty Hillyer. He stated that there is adequate parking for the apartments as well as the business and the house on the property, which is also rented out. Alderman Rockwell noted that in 1990, the owner, Marc Gilliam, requested permission for four apartments and was granted a Special Use Permit for only two apartments at that time. He noted that the parking is a concern of many of the neighbors. Alderman White stated that, if this was approved, she would require that it be approved contingent on the building being inspected to make sure the entire building is up to code. Mr. Hodge stated that the Fire Inspector has made annual inspections and he has made some changes to meet the Fire Code requirements.
Bob Steeber, 2628 32nd Street, spoke in opposition to the approval of the three apartments. He indicated that he knew about the Aqualetic Club when he moved to his current residence. He stated that the parking was bad on July 4 and on other days when they are busy, and there is some noise generated by the customers. He indicated that they close at 10:30 so that is not the problem. He added that the previous owner is the one who created the problem by adding the third apartment without the proper permits and change in the Special Use Permit. He stated that this is a private club, but is a public structure. He expressed his objection to the third apartment unit but added that he is okay with the two apartments.
James Tsagaris, 2615 32nd Street, expressed opposition to the three apartments at this location. He expressed opposition to the third apartment, and noted the parking problems. He indicated that, when the temperature in the summer is 85 or above, the customers and visitors park on both sides of the street and no emergency vehicles can get through.
Mr. Tsagaris further stated that the exit is a blind exit and people enter and exit at 35 to 40 miles per hour. He also noted that they have a canteen there and serve food, and there is garbage – cans and wrappers – outside that go into the neighbors’ yards.
Mr. Hodge spoke again, stating that he did not build the apartments, but purchased the business based on the rental income from the three apartment units and the house. He stated that he felt it was only fair that the inspectors come and inspect for safety code violations.
Mayor Pro-tem Conroy closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:25 p.m.
Alderman Rockwell stated that, if Council would approve the three apartments at this time, what would prevent others with a Special Use Permit from coming before Council after something had already been completed. Alderman Brooks stated that Mr. Hodge was not in violation of the Special Use Permit, and staff apparently did not see a parking problem and stated in their memo that this would not change the character of the neighborhood. He noted that Mr. Hodge bought the property in good faith, and suggested that they look at changing the parking on 32nd Street to one side only.
Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he would not support the Special Use Permit because of the additional apartment and house being rented on that property without city involvement. Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, stated that they received notification of an impending ownership change from Mr. Hillyer, who was reminded that the Special Use Permit would need to be changed if this took place. He noted that they currently do not track ownership, and Council suggested that this be recorded as a part of the real estate transaction.
Alderman Keefe noted that she was in agreement with Alderman Rockwell and Bauersfeld, and even though she could sympathize with the owner, she indicated that the rules should be enforced.
A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to deny the Special Use Permit CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: Alderman Brooks.
Following clarification from City Attorney Ted Kutsunis that this vote would deny the Special Use Permit completely, a motion was made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to reconsider the motion. Motion CARRIED on a Voice vote.
A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to amend the ownership of the Special Use Permit and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: Alderman Bauersfeld.
A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to deny the amendment to the Special Use Permit to continue to maintain the third apartment on second floor CARRIED on a Voice vote. Consensus of Council was that the current tenant, who has a lease that ends in August, be allowed to stay until the termination of the current lease.
ORDINANCES
Agenda Item #7
SALES TAX/BEVERAGES AND FOOD
The City Clerk read an Ordinance amending Chapter 15 of the Code of Ordinances, regarding a 1% sales tax on beverages and prepared food. A motion was made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Brooks to pass the Ordinance.
Alderman Bauersfeld reviewed the reasons for the tax, stating that revenues not being received by the state affect the General Fund, and expenses that the City has no control over are rising. He alluded to the Police and Fire Pensions as well as the Health Costs. He stated that the City Manager asked staff for input into ways to cut expenses and increase revenues, met with staff to review these options and then met with Council for their review. He stated that cuts in service may occur, and he has heard from some residents that they would agree to cuts in service rather than an increase in property tax. He stated that this tax is not a tax just on Rock Island residents, but on all people who come to Rock Island to enjoy the restaurants and entertainment areas.
Jay Brent, 4105 31st Avenue, and owner of the Corner Tap at 4018 14th Avenue, spoke to Council regarding his opposition to this tax. He asked questions from his patrons, one of which was whether or not this tax would be repealed if times got better. He stated that some of his patrons are retired Police and Fire personnel who have indicated that they worked with fewer staff when the population was larger years ago. City Manager John Phillips responded to Mr. Brent’s questions. He noted the reductions that have already been approved, and the number of cuts and fee increases that have been made. He stated that an additional revenue source would be an increase in fines, which is still being worked on prior to being presented to Council for approval. He noted that there are currently fewer employees than we had twenty years ago.
Devon Hansen, owner of Brew and View, asked about the use of the Casino money. Mr. Phillips explained that the money is being used for street repairs and maintenance. Mr. Hansen stated that there is a misconception that the tax is being paid by the customers, because it is not being passed on to them but will be paid by the owners. He suggested putting in a Sunset Provision to end this tax at a specific time. He also suggested increasing the interest on the Community Development loans. Mr. Phillips explained that the loans are from CDBG money and would not impact the General Fund.
A motion was made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman White to amend the ordinance to review this tax on an annual basis for maintenance or reduction. Motion CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Attorney Kutsunis clarified that this amendment changed the Ordinance, and therefore, the motion to “pass the Ordinance” would not apply. The motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Brooks to pass the Ordinance was then changed to “consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance as amended,” which CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, White and Keefe. NAYS: Alderman Rockwell.
Agenda Item #8
1718 24 ½ STREET/HANDICAPPED
PARKING
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance establishing a Handicapped Parking Space in front of 1718 24 ½ Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #9
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance amendment eliminating parking on Second Avenue between 14th and 16th Streets. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #10a
The City Clerk read a report from the Police Department recommending payment to the Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit District in the amount of $12,008.00 for the busses for the 2003 ESO Christmas Lights Tour.
Agenda Item #10b
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Centennial Contractor in the amount of $114,121.31 for the 2003 Utility Patching Program.
Agenda Item #10c
R A OLDEEN/ARMORY ROOF REPAIR
PROJECT
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to R. A. Oldeen in the amount of $34,592.56 for the Armory Roof Repair Project.
Agenda Item #10d
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Valley Construction in the amount of $11,300.50, Langman Construction in the amount of $8,600.00, Kodiak Site Contractors in the amount of $2,854.00, and Dick Doyle Excavating in the amount of $938.00 for snow removal work completed January 4 and 5.
Agenda Item #10e
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Triad Engineering in the amount of $8,786.68 for professional services for the Water Extension and Sewer Extension to Turkey Hollow Road, the Arsenal Water System and Remote Chlorination System.
Agenda Item #10d
TRIAD ENGINEERING/LONG TERM
CONTROL PLAN
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Triad Engineering in the amount of $4,153.10 for the Long Term Control Plan.
Agenda Item #10e
TRIAD ENGINEERING/RAW WATER
INTAKE STUDY
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Triad Engineering in the amount of $411.00 for the Raw Water Intake Study.
Agenda Item #10f
McADAM AND
ASSOCIATES/DEMOLITION
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department recommending payment to McAdam and Associates in the amount of $1,440.00 for emergency demolition of the garage at 1000 5th Avenue.
A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to accept the reports and authorize payments as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #11
The City Clerk read the claims for the week of January 16 through 22 in the amount of $347,850.50. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #12
The City Clerk read the payroll for the weeks of January 5 through 18 in the amount of $898,876.46.
|
GENERAL FUND |
$609,952.77 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #1 DOWNTOWN |
525.91 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #2 SOUTH 11 STREET |
182.91 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #3 NORTH 11 STREET |
182.90 |
|
KING CENTER |
3,834.33 |
|
FEDERAL COPS GRANT |
4,115.93 |
|
COMMUNITY DEV. BLOCK GRANT |
22,491.48 |
|
LIBRARY |
40,076.23 |
|
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS |
4,300.06 |
|
WATER |
54,665.95 |
|
SEWER |
42,738.30 |
|
COMMUNITY/ECONOMIC DEVELOP. |
5,752.04 |
|
BRIDGE |
347.54 |
|
SUNSET MARINA |
9,108.05 |
|
PARK AND RECREATION |
61,609.53 |
|
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE |
23,500.85 |
|
SELF-INSURANCE |
1,515.75 |
|
EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE |
894.61 |
|
CAFETERIA PLAN |
4,979.50 |
|
MLK ACTIVITY FUND |
4,614.78 |
|
DRUG PREVENTION |
3,487.04 |
|
TOTAL |
$898,876.46 |
A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to allow the payroll CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
BIDS/PURCHASES
Agenda Item #13
UTILITY EQUIPMENT COMPANY/FIRE HYDRANTS
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding Joint Purchasing Council bids for the purchase of fire hydrants, recommending the bid of Utility Equipment Company in the amount of $17,730.00. Alderman White asked about accidents that occur resulting in damage to the hydrants. Public Works Director Bob Hawes responded that they bill the insurance company and collect the money for damages generally. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman White to award the bid and authorize purchase as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
CONTRACTS/AGREEMENTS
Agenda Item #14
COAST GUARD AUXILIARY/MARINA LEASE
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a lease renewal at Sunset Marina for the Coast Guard Auxiliary for twelve months beginning February 15, 2004 and ending February 15, 2005. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the lease renewal and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
COMMUNITY/ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
Agenda Item #15
ENTERPRISE ZONE/EXPANSION - HIGHLAND PLACE
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding Enterprise Zone Territory Expansion for Highland Place, recommending approval of the expansion of the Enterprise Zone to include Highland Place, authorization for staff to submit the application for expansion to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and adoption of the Ordinance.
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to approve the expansion of the Enterprise Zone to include Highland Place and authorize staff to submit the application as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #16
1708 SECOND AVENUE
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding an application for the Downtown Tax Increment Finance District Upper Story Housing Program, recommending that Council approve the Development Agreement committing $80,000 of Downtown TIF Funds to create four apartments at 1708 2nd Avenue. A motion made by Alderman and seconded by Alderman to approve the development agreement as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #17
RIVERSTONE GROUP/SPECIAL USE
PERMIT REQUEST NE QUARTER
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request from Robert Alvine, on behalf of Riverstone Group, for permission to apply for a Special Use Permit for a sand and gravel extraction operation for properties at the northeast quarter of Interstate 280 and Illinois Route 92. Mayor Pro-tem Conroy explained that this was not a public hearing but only a request to apply for a Special Use Permit. He stated that, if Council granted permission to the to apply, once the application process is completed, a date would be determined for a Public Hearing. Notices would be sent out at that time to adjoining property owners, and a notice would also appear in the local papers. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman White to allow Mr. Alvine to apply for the Special Use Permit CARRIED on a Voice vote, with Alderman Rockwell abstaining from the vote.
Agenda Item #18
RIVERSTONE GROUP/SPECIAL USE
PERMIT REQUEST SW QUARTER
Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request from Robert Alvine, on behalf of Riverstone Group, for permission to apply for a Special Use Permit for a sand and gravel office and retail operation for properties at the southwest quarter of Interstate 280 and Illinois Route 92. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Keefe to allow Mr. Alvine to apply for a Special Use Permit CARRIED on a Voice vote with Alderman Rockwell abstaining from the vote.
Agenda Item #19
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding the Five Year Capital Improvement Plan. With the number of issues being part of the plan, each issue was voted on separately as noted on the Agenda.
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the revised Gaming Revenue Allocations recommendation CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to approve the revised Five Year Capital Improvement Plan CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Brooks to authorize staff to move forward with the implementation of the FY 04/05 projects CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to approve a 10 percent increase for FY 04/05 (2004 boating season) Sunset Marina rates CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None. Alderman Rockwell asked if the Boaters Advisory Committee was aware of these, and Mr. Hawes responded that they have no official position on this. Alderman Conroy noted that this was part of an on-going plan that was discussed last year.
A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve an increase in water rates by 3 percent January 1, 2004, 4 percent January 1, 2005, and 4 percent January 1, 2006, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None. Alderman Bauersfeld asked the City Manager to explain the reasons for this rate increase. Mr. Phillips noted that Council reviewed the CIP and this was one of the options for increased revenue. Mr. Hawes added that the water rates have not been increased since 1998, and they are recommending no change for the 2007 and 2008. Alderman Bauersfeld noted that this is an enterprise fund.
Agenda Item #20
The City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding proposed changes for Plaza Uses, recommending the following changes:
a. An increase in Vendor Fees to $500.00 for Rock Island Businesses, and $700 for individuals, with $200 annual increases for 2005 and 2006;
b. Limiting the number of Plaza vendors to three;
c. Adding a non-refundable application fee of $50.00 annually for vendors; $10.00 per event for not-for-profit sponsored events, and $25.00 for for-profit sponsored events; and
d. Amending Sec. 8-228, changing the description of Zone 1 to allow outdoor music (west side of Plaza.
A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman White to approve the changes as recommended in a) and in b), and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Alderman Bauersfeld then made a motion to approve the change noted in c) and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance, which motion was seconded by Alderman Keefe. Alderman Bauersfeld asked about the application fee, and the City Clerk and Community Marketing Director Jennifer Fowler explained that many people apply, the applications are processed and the events do not take place or vendors do not follow through upon approval. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that the application fee should be paid up front when the application is submitted, and should be in addition to the permit fee. Motion CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Alderman Bauersfeld then made a motion to not change the sound amplification level for the west side of the Plaza, which motion was seconded by Alderman Brooks. The motion CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #21
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from the Public Works Department to extend the NO PARKING zone along the east side of 17th Street south of 25th Avenue for a total distance of approximately 256 feet. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the request and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
City Manager John C. Phillips reviewed the Goals Status Report, noting the accomplishments of the past quarter. He noted that the Council determines goals at their Goal Setting Session in September, and this report indicates the status of these goals.
Public Works Department Manager Bob Hawes reviewed this information, stating that they are having a kick-off meeting this week. He stated that the two departments plan to look at the possibility of some type of consolidation or coordination for Solid Waste Collection and Disposal.
Mr. Phillips noted that the Andalusia Road Corridor Study Consultant Interviews would be held on Wednesday, January 29 at 5:30 p.m.
Alderman Bauersfeld noted that he had asked for a report on the tax relationship with the other cities. Mr. Phillips responded that it is still in the process of completion.
RIVERSTONE/BIG ISLAND
Mayor Pro-tem Conroy noted that several of the people who signed up to address the Council were from Big Island. He noted that this is not a Public Hearing, and asked Mr. Carmen to speak about the process for the Special Use Permit. Mr. Carmen stated that there would be a notice of not less than fifteen days in the paper for the Public Hearing. He stated that this will probably be held late February or early March, and they will be kept informed in writing. Alderman Conroy stated that there will be Public Hearings on the Special Use Permits and these will be scheduled only after Riverstone has applied for the Special Use Permit.
Following this explanation, Mayor Pro-tem Conroy called up the first three persons who signed in – Peggy Bryant, 1702 Big Island Road, Chuck Layer, 1420 Big Island Road and Randy Wlaskolich, 2528 58th Avenue West, Big Island – they all requested that their time be allocated to Tina Kost. Aldermen noted that she would still only be allowed five minutes to speak.
Steve Seiver, 1421 34th Avenue, Rock Island and Village Administrator of Milan, spoke to Council regarding the involvement of Milan in the flood control project for Big Island. He indicated that Milan would have no standing in the Special Use Permit public hearing, but he asked that the dialogue between Rock Island and Milan remain open. He discussed the responsibility for the two permanent pumping stations, and stated that any modifications to the flood control project would have to be reviewed by the Corps of Engineers.
Alderman White noted that Rock Island has a good record of communicating with other cities, but sometimes the other cities do not communicate with us. Mr. Seiver requested that Rock Island share information, consider the impact of the project beyond Rock Island, and join in requesting any technical studies and reviews in assessing the public risk. He noted that the project is extremely critical to a lot of people.
Alderman Keefe noted that the courts have indicated that the Council must base its decision solely on the evidence presented at the Public Hearing where both sides can be heard.
Christian Kost, 2104 Big Island Road, noted the contributions of Mayor Schwiebert’s father during his lifetime. She then began to discuss the meetings that were held over the weekend for Big Island residents and others regarding the Riverstone/Casino projects, and noted that as a group they seemed to see both sides of the issue. She attempted to ask questions, but was cautioned by Mayor Pro-tem Conroy that the Council would not hear any information that would be presented at a public hearing.
Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to recess to Executive Session for Personnel CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 9:05 p.m.
Mayor Pro-tem Conroy reconvened the regular meeting at 9:45 p.m. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Keefe to recess to Monday, February 2 at 5:00 p.m. CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 9:46 p.m.
_______________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk