The Rock Island City Council met in Study Session at 5:00 p.m. 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 Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Margie Mejia-Caraballo and Charles O. Austin III. Also present were City Manager John Phillips, Finance Director Bill Scott, Mike Bell and Andrew Guzzo of American Bank and Trust. Alderwoman Joy Murphy was absent.
MISCELLANEOUS
City Manager John C. Phillips noted that there were two items for discussion at this session. The first was an Executive Session on Personnel, to be followed at 6:00 p.m. with a discussion on Banking Services.
EXECUTIVE
SESSION
A motion was made by Alderman Pauley and seconded by Alderman Austin to recess to Executive Session on matters of Personnel. The motion carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being, Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was recessed at 5:25 p.m.
Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular Study Session at 6:00 p.m.
BANKING SERVICES
Finance Director Bill Scott addressed Council and stated that the Banking Services contract with American Bank started on October 1, 2007. Mr. Scott stated that Mr. Bell would present a PowerPoint presentation regarding Banking Services.
Mr. Bell stated that several key goals were to create economic value for the City and the partnership; promote greater efficiency and implement new services for the residents of Rock Island, administration and staff.
Mr. Bell offered that they have combined all collected deposit account balances into a single concentrated checking account to maximize earnings. Mr. Bell pointed out that City staff negotiated a concentration checking account return at the prime rate minus 3%, which is fully collateralized for the investment of the policy for no additional fees.
Mr. Bell introduced several of the value partners, which was included as an efficiency piece. Several of the partners included; Payment Express, Professional Bill Services, Global Security Systems and Promotional Support Services.
Mr. Bell pointed out that for greater efficiency; they have implemented a utility box at Promotional Support Services in Rock Island. All of the processed items will be coded, scanned for remote deposit, imaged and archived for retrieval and retention. It was noted that Global Security Systems has been deployed as an armored carrier for all 27 City pay stations and parking meters. Mr. Bell commented that American Bank’s goal for the City is for this to increase the City’s collected fund position, be consistent, safe and cost effective. Mr. Bell also stated that MasterCard/Visa credit acceptance has been deployed at all of the City’s pay stations as a payment option for services.
Mr. Bell then discussed Process Review and Improvement. It was pointed out that a standard City utility bill and invoice has been created. It was also noted that a solution was found to print mail, utility bills and invoices from a single source (Promotional Support Services). Mr. Bell stated that the City will have the capability to collect all receivables in a centralized lock box location; and Dual Control has been implemented at City pay stations. Mr. Bell presented an example of a new billing invoice, and commented that this will be a systematic and long-term approach.
After discussion, regarding on-line billing, Mr. Bell stated that other services to be implemented in the future include; Visa Purchasing Cards; State of Illinois Green Awards Rebate, and online E-Care capabilities. It was noted that all of these changes would be in conjunction with the Harris accounting software package.
Mr. Bell then discussed the Visa Purchasing Card. Mr. Bell offered that the cards would be issued on Monday, February 18, 2008 to the Mayor, City Council members, managers and staff for their purchasing needs. Mr. Bell offered that the purchasing card is an excellent budgeting tool that promotes accountability; allows payment flexibility; and is much safer than carrying cash. It was also noted that each card will have credit limits and merchant restrictions for usage, and is fiscally responsible.
After further discussion regarding the Visa Purchasing Card, City Manager Phillips stated that as an organization, the City continues to value innovation; and the City appreciates American Bank and staff’s hard work to move ahead.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion made by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and seconded by Alderman Conroy to adjourn the meeting carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:38 p. m.
_____________________________
Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk
Rock Island City Council met in regular session at 6:45 p.m. in the Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M.A. Brooks I, David Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Margie Mejia-Caraballo and Charles O. Austin III. City Manager John Phillips was also present. Alderwoman Joy Murphy was absent.
Introductory
Proceedings
Mayor Schwiebert called the meeting to order and lead in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo gave the Invocation.
Agenda Item #5
Minutes of the Meeting of February 4, 2008.
A motion was made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Pauley to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of February 4, 2008 as written. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #6
Public Hearing on a request from Mary VandeVoorde, Director of Teams Services for the
ARC of Rock Island County for a Special Use Permit to operate a retail craft
store out of the ARC’s main office building at 4016 9th Street.
Mayor Schwiebert closed
the regular meeting at 6:47 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a
request from Mary
VandeVoorde, Director of Teams Services for the ARC of Rock Island County for a
Special Use Permit to operate a retail craft store out of the ARC’s main office
building at 4016 9th Street.
Mayor Schwiebert swore in
Ms.
VandeVoorde of 1624 14 ½ Street and Brandon Jones, a resident of Rock Island.
Ms. VandeVoorde addressed the
Council and stated that Brandon would like to address the Council. Mr. Jones
stated that they would like to open a retail craft (consignment) store out of
the main building to sell merchandise.
Mayor Schwiebert read the
stipulations for approval of the request, which included: that the business be
limited to three (3) employees; hours of operation be limited to 10:00 a.m. to
7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays
and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays;
that a minimum of three (3) off-street parking spaces designated for the
commercial use be provided; that an attached sign (three (3) square feet in
area) be allowed and a temporary sandwich-board freestanding sign (three (3)
square feet in area) be placed in the east front yard when the business is
open; and the property shall meet all applicable code requirements.
Mayor Schwiebert inquired
to Ms. VandeVoorde
and Mr. Jones
if they understood the stipulations. Ms. VandeVoorde and Mr. Jones responded yes.
Mayor Schwiebert stated
that it is a slight variation on the existing use at the property to allow a
retail function to be performed.
There were no questions
from Council.
Mayor Schwiebert inquired
as to whether there was anyone who wished to speak in favor of the Special Use
Permit application. No one stepped forward.
Mayor Schwiebert then
inquired as to whether there was anyone who wished to speak in opposition to
the Special Use Permit application. No one stepped forward.
With no other persons
present to speak in favor of, or in opposition to the Special Use Permit
application, Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the
regular meeting at 6:50 p.m.
Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Conroy seconded to approve the request for a Special Use Permit at 4016 9th Street subject to the stipulations as recommended, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #7
A Special Ordinance amending a Special Ordinance
granting a Special Use Permit for 3204 27th Avenue.
It was moved by Alderman Tollenaer, seconded by Alderman Austin to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Special Ordinance amending a Special Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit for 3204 27th Avenue.
Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert stating that the item is in connection with the Aqualetic Club. The Ordinance is granting some of the special use requests that were extended, but does not grant anything with regard to the entertainment in terms of the party function because proper notice needed to be given to the neighbors to find out what the neighbors response would be. Mayor Schwiebert offered that the Special Use Permit would allow the new owner of the property (Scott Ryder) to operate the Special Use Permit; and would allow four (4) units instead of the two (2) units to be operated on the property. The Special Use Permit would also allow for a 4’ by 5’ unlit sign. Mayor Schwiebert noted that the matter would come back to Council for a continuation of the Public Hearing On Monday, March 3, 2008.
After discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #8
A Special Ordinance amending a Special Ordinance
establishing a no parking zone and two handicapped parking spaces on 6th
Avenue and 21st Street.
Alderman Tollenaer moved and Alderman Conroy seconded to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Special Ordinance amending a Special Ordinance establishing a no parking zone and two handicapped parking spaces on 6th Avenue and 21st Street. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #9
CLAIMS
It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, to accept the following reports and authorize payment as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
a.
Report
from the Personnel Department regarding payment in the amount of $12,399.40 to
Police Sergeant Jeff Collins (Crawford & Company) for Workers Compensation
Disfigurement Award.
b.
Report
from the Public Works Department regarding payment #4 and final in the amount
of $18,895.04 to Hoerr Construction Inc. for the 2007 Joint Sanitary/Storm
Sewer Lining project. (013)
c. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $32,928.00 to the State of Illinois for IL. 92 4th to 5th Avenue Resurfacing. (016)
d. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $153,354.84 to the State of Illinois for 85th Avenue West Reconstruction. (020)
e. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #3 in the amount of $2,844.05 to Avatech Solutions for the installation of Autodesk Civil 3D 2008 on the computers and training of personnel. (021)
Agenda Item #10
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Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo moved and Alderman Austin seconded to allow the claims. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #11
Report from the Public Works Department
regarding bids for the purchase of Encapsulated Flotation for the Sunset Marina
300 Dock, recommending the bid be awarded to K&R Manufacturing in the
amount of $3,181.35.
It was moved by Alderman Tollenaer, seconded by Alderman Austin to award the bid as recommended and authorize purchase. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #12
Report from the
Public Works Department regarding bids for City Hall window replacement,
recommending the bid be awarded to Trotter General Contracting Inc. in the amount
of $145,311.00.
Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo moved and Alderman Austin seconded to award the bid as recommended, and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents.
Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert commenting that this item is in regards to making City Hall more energy efficient.
After discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #13
Report from the
Public Works Department regarding an Adopt A Highway agreement with Augustana
College Athletes Give Back to adopt 18th Avenue from Sunset Park to
the Moline Border.
It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo,
seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to approve the contract as recommended,
and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents.
Two (2) students from Augustana College
stepped forward to address the Council. Tyler Carlson, Co-Director of Athletes
Giving Back and Jaime Mieszala, Co-Director of Athletes Giving Back. Ms.
Mieszala stated that AGB (Athletes Giving Back) is a program developed to
provide Augustana Varsity Athletes with opportunities to become more integrated
in the surrounding community by giving back through a series of volunteer service projects including (but not
limited to) clean-ups, yard work, construction and volunteering services with
elementary school students and the elderly.
Mr. Carlson stated that AGB (Athletes Giving
Back) tries to show that they can be more proactive in the community; and the
program is developed to further the relationship with the Rock Island
community.
Mayor Schwiebert commended both students and
the membership for their civic mindedness for showing interest in the
community.
After discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #14
Report from the
Public Works Department regarding a contract with Symbiont in the amount of
$202,800.00 for design of the 1st Avenue interceptor sewer.
Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo moved and Alderman Tollenaer seconded to approve the contract as recommended, and authorize the City Manager to execute the documents. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #15
Report from the
Martin Luther King Center regarding a contract with Harris Computer Systems.
It was moved by Alderman Pauley, seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the contract as recommended, approve the license fee in the amount of $15,000.00 in fiscal year 2008 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #16
Report from the
General Administration regarding the Federal Legislative Priorities for fiscal
year 2008-2009.
Alderman Conroy moved and Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo seconded to adopt the projects as recommended, and encourage support from members of Congress that represent the citizens of the City of Rock Island.
Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert stating that this item was a follow-up identifying the priorities of the City that will be taken to Washington this week. Mayor Schwiebert read the top priorities that reflected some of the City’s significant financial obligations. Mayor Schwiebert stated that the particular projects were selected because they represent areas where a major financial burden may have to be borne by the citizens, if the City is unable to obtain assistance from Washington; or there may be areas where the City’s consultants in Washington have suggested that funds may be available.
After further discussion regarding the Federal Legislative Priorities, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #17
Report from the
General Administration regarding Plaza event fees, recommending that fees for
events in the Plaza be increased to $250.00 for the “for-profit” applicants,
and an increase of fees from $25.00 to $50.00 for the “non-profit” applicants.
Agenda
Item #17 died for lack of a Motion.
Agenda Item #18
Report from the
Community and Economic Development Department regarding an Ordinance extending
the term of the Downtown Tax Increment Financing District from twenty-three to
thirty-five years.
Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Pauley seconded to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance extending the term of the Downtown Tax Increment Financing District from twenty-three to thirty-five years. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #19
Report from the Community and Economic
Development Department regarding a request for Amendments to the Zoning
Ordinance regarding Residential Home Occupations and Special Use Permits.
It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the request as recommended, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance.
Discussion followed with Alderman Brooks inquiring for clarification regarding Residential Home Occupations and Special Use Permits.
City Manager John Phillips stated that the changes reflect past practices with City Council approving Special Use Permits, but not the Board of Zoning Appeals.
City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen to offer an explanation in regards to the amendments to the Zoning Ordinance.
Mr. Carmen stated that when the unified zoning Ordinance was put together several years ago, there was some language that was carried over; and it incorrectly reflected that the Board of Zoning Appeals was involved in some of these activities. It should be the City Council for special uses. Mr. Carmen commented that several months ago there were special uses that received some publicity. As a result, the City Attorney found that there needed to be corrections in the Zoning Ordinance.
After further discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #20
Report from the Community and Economic
Development Department regarding the review of a seven lot major Final Plat of
Blackhawk Landing Second Addition located east of the 30th Street
and Blackhawk Road intersection.
Alderman Tollenaer moved and Alderman Austin seconded to approve the final plat as recommended, subject to the City Engineer reviewing and accepting as-built drawings, inspection reports and public improvements on the site. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #21
Report from the
Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request for installation of a
handicapped parking space at 539 28th Street.
It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to approve the request as recommended, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #22
Report from the
Mayor regarding Appointments to the Planning Commission, Neighborhood Partners,
Martin Luther King Junior Center Board and the Rock Island County Joint Animal
Shelter.
Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Tollenaer seconded to approve the appointments as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Appointments to the Planning Commission include; Jason Lopez with a term to expire April 30, 2008.
Reappointments to Neighborhood Partners include; Christine Coin Smith, Ann Keefe, Christopher Mandle and Margaret Tweet with terms to expire February, 2011. Appointments include; Joe Hart with a term to also expire February, 2011.
Reappointments to the Martin Luther King Junior Center Board include; Latricia Andrews, Tony Banks, Brian Hollenback, Matthew Pappas and John Thorson with terms to expire January 31, 2011.
Reappointments to the Rock Island County Joint Animal Shelter include; John Wright with a term to expire March 1, 2011.
Agenda Item #23
Report from the
Public Works Department regarding appointments to the Stormwater Board of
Appeals.
It was moved by Alderman Tollenaer, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the appointments as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Appointments to the Stormwater Board of Appeals include; Robert Schroeder and Kevin Koski for a three (3) year term.
Agenda Item #24
Report from the
City Clerk regarding a request from Cabanas for an adjustment to their hours
for Sunday outdoor entertainment.
Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Tollenaer seconded to approve the request as recommended, subject to complying with all other Liquor License regulations, and subject to being closed down early if noise complaints are received. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #25
Items from
the City Manager’s Memorandum Packet.
City Manager John Phillips stated that a report was included in the memo
packet regarding deer nuisance issues. Mr. Phillips inquired upon Police Chief
John Wright to review some additional research that was done regarding what the
Department of Natural Resources does in some instances where problems occur in
municipalities regarding deer issues.
Chief Wright stepped forward and distributed a map of the traffic related
issues regarding deer. Chief Wright stated that in the calendar year 2007, 27
vehicle-deer related accidents occurred in Rock Island; 15 of them or almost
half occurred in Southwest Rock Island; the next largest area was along
Interstate 92. Chief Wright offered that most accidents occur on City streets
where the speed limit is over 30 mph.
Chief Wright explained there are three (3) options in addressing the deer
nuisance issue. The first option, which is the least recommended, is the
traditional public deer hunt. The City could allow public hunting within the
City limits during State regulated deer seasons. Chief Wright firmly pointed
out that in
order for this to occur, the City would have to amend the Ordinance regulating
the discharge of firearms and bow and arrow within the City limits. Chief
Wright also noted that it would be advisable for the City to adopt a new
Ordinance that clearly establishes specific regulations and requirements.
Chief Wright explained that a second option would be for the City to
apply for a Deer Population Control Permit through the Department of Natural
Resources. This permit is issued only to municipalities, and authorizes the reduction
or control of deer by nontraditional/non-hunting methods. Chief Wright offered
that this is a comprehensive on-going project that would require the City to
submit a detailed proposal to Illinois Department of Natural Resources. This
would be a city-wide program to thin the herd.
Chief Wright offered that the third option for controlling the deer is to
obtain a Deer Removal Permit in which may be issued to assist property owners
in abating deer related damage. But, Chief Wright noted that these permits
could also be issued to municipalities. This type of permit is intended for
removing problem deer that are actively causing excessive damage at a specific
location.
Chief Wright pointed out that the second and third options involve
obtaining permits from the Department of Natural Resources; and each include
the out-sourcing of the programs to a private wildlife control company.
Mayor Schwiebert stated that with the last alternative, an Ordinance
would have to be in place for allowing it to be done; then the Department of
Natural Resources would have to come out and define what the areas would be
that would be covered by the Ordinance; and then potentially the private
property owner being allowed to implement this, subject to the approval of the
DNR.
Chief Wright stated that was correct, and it would also affect a specific
location.
After further discussion, Sergeant Rich Landi stepped forward and offered
that information on Davenport and Bettendorf suggested that as part of a
traditional hunting season (depending on property size), an individual could
apply for and obtain permission to hunt on their property. But, Sergeant Landi
noted that this is mainly in rural areas.
After more discussion regarding the specifics of the three (3) options,
Mayor Schwiebert inquired as whether there were any other established methods
for repelling deer that may be available to people that are having problems
with deer in the City.
Chief Wright stated that the Parks Department has a nice brochure that is
located on the City website, and there may be other available websites for
citizens to check.
Agenda Item #26
Ms. Sue McDevitt of 2940 17th Street stepped forward and expressed concerns regarding the deer problem. Ms. McDevitt stated that the deer problem has expanded over the years. Ms. McDevitt explained that she finds pleasure in gardening, but has given up due to the deer problem. Ms. McDevitt also noted that she has tried every type of remedy to get rid of the deer, but nothing has really worked. Ms. McDevitt stated that the best solution to the deer problem may be to lower the number of the herd.
Ms. Betty Moran of 3637 35th Avenue Court stepped forward and reiterated Ms. McDevitt’s concerns, but also stated that many deer will congregate at night in her back yard, and nothing scares them. Ms. Moran noted that the deer population has damaged many of her plants.
Mayor Schwiebert suggested several remedies to the ladies including a low voltage wire and contacting a wildlife re-mediator.
Alderman Conroy suggested that the DNR come in and look at various sites to determine as to whether there is a nuisance problem that meets their standards.
Mayor Schwiebert inquired to Sergeant Landi and Chief Wright to report back with a cost of what Alderman Conroy suggested. Mayor Schwiebert commented that when more information is provided, the Council could determine if a city-wide survey should be done.
City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Public Works Director Bob Hawes to update Council on the winter weather situation regarding salt usage.
Mr. Hawes stated that the City has used 5,000 tons of salt (in a normal winter, the City uses approximately 4,000 tons of salt); the City still has about 1,000 tons of salt in inventory, which has been cut with sand. Mr. Hawes noted that the City is running $80,000.00 to 100,000.00 over budget. Mr. Hawes also commented that the City has had 21 storms so far this year; and a typical year would include approximately 12 storms.
Agenda Item #27
Executive
Session on Property Acquisition.
A motion was made by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Austin at 8:03 p.m. to recess to Executive Session on matters of Property Acquisition. The motion carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #28
Recess
Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 8:14 p.m. A motion was made by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to recess to Monday, February 18, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
The meeting was recessed at 8:15 p.m.
___________________________________
Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk
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