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, Joy Murphy and Charles O. Austin III. Also present were City Manager John Phillips, Community and Economic Development Director Greg Champagne, Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen, Public Works Director Bob Hawes, Dave Cahill, CPA from Eide Bailly and Bruce Morrow of Schreiber Anderson Associates.

INTRODUCTION OF CITY AUDITORS

Finance Director Bill Scott introduced Dave Cahill, CPA from Eide Bailly. Mr. Scott noted that the firm Eide Bailly was the City’s auditors in 2002, 2003 and 2004. Mr. Cahill reviewed the timing and the scope of the audit. Mr. Cahill offered that with the year ending being March 31, 2008, Eide Bailly will come in and begin working on the review of the internal controls. They will come back in June to continue working; and will come back in the last two weeks of July to do the final audit work. Mr. Cahill indicated that the final audit review report will be presented in late September to Council.

Mr. Cahill stated that as with any audit, they do risk auditing. The majority of the time will be spent on complex areas that present the most risk. Mr. Cahill offered that the purpose of the audit is not specifically to come in and try to identify fraud. But, if an issue arises, they are required to report on it. Mr. Cahill also commented that the purpose is not to give an opinion on internal controls, but rather to relay ideas where the firm feels there may be weaknesses or where improvements could be made. The auditor’s job as Mr. Cahill noted is to make sure the financial statements are presented and materials are corrected and not misdated.

City Manager Phillips inquired to Mr. Cahill as to whether there were any new rulings regarding audit standards.

Mr. Cahill stated there are a few new rulings; but one specifically entails employment benefits. Mr. Cahill offered that if an organization offers post employment benefits other than pensions, there would be a need for additional recording or note disclosers.

ARMORY PARK CONCEPT PLAN

City Manager John Phillips indicated that Schreiber Anderson Associates had prepared concepts based on conversations that they had with Council, and other public input that was received. Mr. Phillips noted that Schreiber Anderson Associates put together a proposal that includes the concept. Mr. Phillips indicated that the goal is to review the concept to see if the elements included reflect the direction the Council would like for the City to take so that Schreiber Anderson Associates may move forward and begin the design. Mr. Phillips inquired upon Community and Economic Development Director Greg Champagne to share information regarding the Tax Increment Financing cash flow projection concerning Armory Park.

Mr. Champagne stated that the proposed means for financing a major portion of Armory Park construction would be the use of the Downtown Increment Finance funds. Mr. Champagne indicated that to determine the ability to fund Armory Park and future downtown projects, a cash flow analysis was developed. Mr. Champagne explained the cost analysis spread sheet and indicated that the assumed 13 million dollar capital cost for the park project necessitates annual debt service payments of approximately 1.3 million dollars. It was noted that the debt service number was obtained from the City’s financial consultant who considered the expected interest rates at the time of bond sale in early 2009. Mr. Champagne stated that overall; the analysis shows that at a 13 million dollar level, there would be sufficient projected cash flow to support the debt service payments and other projects in the Downtown Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District. Mr. Champagne also commented that there may be a possible two million dollars in support obtained from private organizations as well as state and federal funding sources.

Discussion followed regarding the projected cash flow estimates and financing for Armory Park; at that time, Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen placed a call to Bruce Morrow of Schreiber Anderson Associates. Mr. Carmen provided an update to Mr. Morrow regarding the previous discussion and welcomed Mr. Morrow back to the City Council Study Session.

Mayor Schwiebert inquired to Mr. Morrow as to why the total estimates reflected 15 million dollars as opposed to the initial cost of 19 million to 20 million dollars.

Mr. Morrow stated that the docking and breakwater system had been reduced. It was noted that a breakwater system was still in the plans, but instead of having a permanent fixture out in the water, there will be a floating breakwater system. Mr. Morrow commented that one million dollars was saved with that element change; and different fountains and landscaping also brought the price down.

Council discussed the portable ice skating rink element in which Alderman Conroy inquired to Mr. Morrow as to what the preferable temperature would be for usability. Mr. Morrow stated that it would depend on environmental conditions including wind, sun and humidity. Mr. Morrow commented that when the cost estimates were done, it was assumed for an operating window of four months (winter). The suggestion for the placement of the portable ice skating rink was in the Armory area.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that the objective of this is to provide something that is family friendly; and would draw families to the site. Mayor Schwiebert commented that what would work with multi seasons (instead of just a winter element) could be the water course (miniature river) and the interactive water feature (fountain at the entry point).

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo had concerns for having a family friendly element in the winter months.

Mr. Morrow offered that winter programs or events could address that concern.

Mayor Schwiebert mentioned that another important and positive element on the riverfront was the observation platform for viewing the eagles in the winter months.

Alderman Austin had concerns regarding no entry features shown on the plan. Mr. Morrow commented that the entry features were still there and to be determined. More discussion followed regarding the entry features.

Alderman Austin also inquired to Mr. Morrow as to where the special pavement would be located. Mr. Morrow responded that the special pavement would be placed in the plaza area, around the interactive fountain, along the water course and stage area.

Mayor Schwiebert discussed several phases for the proposed elements stating that the transient marina and the floating light columns may be incorporated into phase two. Council members discussed various other elements including the seating steps and enhanced seating, site furnishings, the upper promenade and sound and lighting elements. Council also discussed construction as it related to the proposed phases.

Mr. Morrow then described the stage components stating that the stage would have four columns with a roof; it would be concrete; underneath would be the basement that would be closed off and used for storage; and bathrooms would be located off to the north side.

More discussion followed regarding the contingency costs, permitting, parking and the inclusion and exclusion of various elements regarding the phases of construction. On the discussion regarding contingency costs, Mr. Morrow commented that a 20% contingency cost was common at this point in time in this phase when there are unknowns.

After more discussion, Mayor Schwiebert stated that the project needs to be done in a fairly fiscally, conservative and responsible manner.

It was noted that the Preferred Concept (Modified Armory Silhouette design) and for Schreiber Anderson Associates to proceed to phase two (Preliminary design Development) would be on the Agenda tonight for approval.

MISCELLANEOUS

Public Works Director Bob Hawes addressed Council and stated that the City had a chlorine leak at the Water Treatment Plant at approximately 11:00 a.m. this morning (Monday). Mr. Hawes indicated that it was in the chlorine contained building. It was also noted that when the operator turned the valve off on the chlorine tank, it started leaking. The operator shut the door and left the sealed building. The operator called the Fire Department; the Fire Department came in and shut the valve down. Mr. Hawes indicated that approximately 30 pounds of chlorine was lost out of a 2,000 pound cylinder. Mr. Hawes concluded that the chlorine that was in the building went through a scrubber, and was discharged into the air.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

A motion was made by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and seconded by Alderman Austin to recess to Executive Session on matters of Litigation. The motion carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being, Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was recessed at 6:24 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT

Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 6:33 p.m. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderwoman Murphy 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was adjourned at 6:34 p. m.

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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, Joy Murphy and Charles O. Austin III. City Manager John Phillips was also present.

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 11, 2008.

A motion was made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of February 11, 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #6

Presentation of the 2008-2009 Budget by City Manager John Phillips.

City Manager John Phillips addressed the Council and presented the 2008-2009 Budget.

Mr. Phillips stated that the budget is a financial plan that outlines where funding will come from and where funding will be spent. The budget serves as an operations guide to staff on how each department will be allocating resources to get the job done.

Mr. Phillips explained that the General Fund covers the revenues and expenses of many City services. Police, Fire and Public Works are the areas that comprise approximately 83% of General Fund spending with 35 % being spent in Police, 24 % in Public Works and 24% of spending in Fire. Personnel costs are a major item in the budget totaling approximately 69% of the General Fund budget. Services are at 23%, which include utility expenses, solid wastes disposal fees, and many other services included in the City budget. The General Fund budget is proposed at 30.6 million dollars. Mr. Philips noted that this represents a 1.0% increase in the General Fund budget.

Mr. Phillips indicated that Personnel costs are up 5%, but supplies, services and capital are down in the proposed budget. It was noted that the current budget includes a lot of one-time improvements (City Hall window replacements, roof repairs etc.). Mr. Phillips stated that the level of spending in these categories will be going down since the City will not be doing these one-time improvements in the proposed budget.

Mr. Phillips offered that the Illinois based revenues are based on the State economy and the distribution formulas that the State provides. Income Tax is 11% of the General Fund. This is a 4.6% increase over last year’s budget. Mr. Phillips commented that this is approximately 3% more than what the City anticipates receiving this year. Mr. Phillips indicated that the revenues have been steadily increasing since 2003, and the City will have to monitor these closely due to the soft state and national economy.

Mr. Phillips indicated that another major revenue source is Replacement Tax, which is based on corporate income. It is projected at 2.9 million dollars for next year. Mr. Phillips noted that it is budgeted at 6% more than last year’s budget. But, it is the same as anticipated revenue that the City will receive this year.

Mr. Phillips indicated that the Use Taxes are taxes that are collected in Illinois on certain goods and services, and distributed back to local communities and are based on population. The City is projecting an increase of 5% over what the City anticipates receiving in this fiscal year. Mr. Phillips noted that the Utility Tax is stable with no growth anticipated. The Sales Tax was 3.7 million dollars in 2007; and Mr. Phillips stated that it is projected to be 3.86 million dollars in 2009, which is only 4% more in 2009 than what was received seven (7) years ago.

Mr. Phillips explained that on the expense side, Personnel costs are up 5% overall, and wages have increased 4%. While health insurance has doubled in the last five years from 2001 to 2006, there was a leveling off in 2006-2008. Mr. Phillips noted that in the 2009 budget planning, there is an increase of 12% in health insurance expenditures. Mr. Phillips pointed out that pension costs continue to be a major concern. Pension costs are budgeted for the next year at $5.2 million dollars.

Mr. Phillips indicated that the total budget is proposed at approximately 81 million dollars, and this is a 2.0% increase over 2008 with services up 2.9 million dollars and capital programs and transfers are down.

Property Tax Collection only represents 18% of the budget. Mr. Phillips mentioned that the property tax bill that residents receive shows that the schools receive 54%; the City receives 25%; the County receives 9% and other taxing bodies receive 12%. Mr. Phillips noted that for every dollar that citizens pay in property taxes, the City receives 25 cents.

City Manager Phillips noted that the Property Tax Rate has declined from $4.13 (in 1991) per $100.00 of assessed value. This year it stands at $2.34. As assessed values of properties have increased, the City decreases the tax rate; and taxes will be collected at a rate less than the rate of growth of property values in the City. The budget calls for the tax rate to decline $.02, which was approved in December and what the City currently has. The recommended tax levy is an increase of the amount the City collects, which is 3.9%; and it was recommended at 10.7 million dollars. City Manager Phillips stated that Police and Fire Pensions are 29% of the Property Tax.

City Manager Phillips concluded the discussion with various strategic issues sighted for the coming year. One of which is to maintain and enhance the financial strength of the City. And, Mr. Phillips reminded Council that the budget work sessions would be held from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 23, 2008 and Saturday, March 1, 2008.

Agenda Item #7

An Ordinance amending Sec. 8.13a and Sec. 8.13b of Article VIII of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Major and Minor Home Occupation.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance amending Sec. 8.13a and Sec. 8.13b of Article VIII of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Major and Minor Home Occupation. 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #8

An Ordinance amending Sec. 14.4(b) of Article XIV of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Major Home Occupation.

Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo seconded to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance amending Sec. 14.4(b) of Article XIV of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Major Home Occupation. 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #9

A Special Ordinance establishing a handicapped parking space at 539 28^th Street.

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Austin to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance establishing a handicapped parking space at 539 28^th 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #10

A Special Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit for 4016 9^th Street.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Pauley seconded to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit for 4016 9^th 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #11

CLAIMS

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy, 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

a. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,927.50 to Kone Inc. for City Hall Elevator Replacement. (038)

b. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $12,885.00 to Dixon Engineering for 38^th Street Water Tower Painting inspection services. (039)

c. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,331.16 to Brandt Construction Company for emergency water main repair on Blackhawk Road. (040)

d. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $11,857.75 to Brandt Construction Company for storm water outfall repairs at 35^th Avenue and 26^th Street. (041)

e. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $2,908.74 to Itron Inc. for annual maintenance of Water Meter Services handheld computer. (042)

f. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $71,789.36 to C.H. Langman and Son Inc. for emergency water main repair on 12^th Street and 44^th Avenue. (043)

g. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $8,631.29 to Valley Construction for emergency water main repair on Blackhawk Road and Velie Drive. (044)

h. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 in the amount of $401,850.00 to LC United Painting Company for 38^th Street Water Tower Painting. (046)

i. Report from the Information Technology Services Department regarding payment in the amount of $3,540.00 to ACS Government Systems Inc. for Firehouse computer system annual maintenance.

j. Report from the Personnel Department regarding total payment in the amount of $3,750.00 to Holmes Murphy for health RFP and health facilitator’s fees.

Agenda Item #12

Claims for the week of February 8 through February 14 in the amount of $737,173.40.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderwoman Murphy 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #13

Payroll for the weeks of January 28 through February 10 in the amount of $1,117,842.31.

It was moved by Alderman Tollenaer, seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to allow the payroll 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #14

Report from the Fire Department regarding purchase of Portable VHF to 800 EDACS Linker from RACOM Critical Communications in the amount of $3,524.46.

It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the purchased 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #15

Report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the purchase of 24 400 watt HPS Ballast Kits, 10 Street Light Poles and 10 Luminaries, recommending the bids be awarded to Republic Electric Company in the amount of $1,449.60 and Springfield Electrical Company in the amount of $7,136.00.

Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo seconded to award the bids 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #16

Report from the Public Works Department regarding an agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation for improvements to 11^th Avenue between 36^th and 38^th Streets and Augustana Campus Trail.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to approve the agreement as recommended, 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #17

Report from the Public Works Department regarding the Coast Guard Auxiliary Lease Renewal agreement.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Austin seconded to approve the agreement 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #18

Report from the Public Works Department regarding the 2007 PCC Street Patching Program contract with Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities Inc., recommending a one year extension until December 31, 2008 in the amount $165,000.00.

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the contract extension 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #19

Report from the Public Works Department regarding the 2007 Brick Street Repair Program contract with Walter D. Laud Inc., recommending a one year extension until December 31, 2008 in the amount $80,000.00.

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderwoman Murphy seconded to approve the contract extension 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #20

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the Modified Armory Silhouette Preferred Concept Design.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to approve the Modified Armory Silhouette Preferred Concept Design as recommended, and authorize Schreiber Anderson Associates to proceed to phase two-Preliminary Design Development.

Discussion followed with Alderman Conroy stating that with the increasing costs of the project, he didn’t feel that the money should be spent out of the TIF (Tax Increment Finance) District for the park. Alderman Conroy stated that a large portion of the TIF funds should go to the stormwater improvements that the City may do in the Downtown and in the future. Alderman Conroy indicated that he would be voting against Agenda Item #20.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that the figures have declined from 19 million dollars to 15 million dollars for the total cost. It was noted that TIF dollars could not be spent throughout the City; TIF dollars can only be spent within the TIF District. Mayor Schwiebert pointed out that a portion of the sewer work is within that area; and some of the monies could be potentially used for that. But, Mayor Schwiebert offered that to suggest a substantial portion of those monies could or should be used for sewer maintenance probably would not be appropriate.

Alderman Pauley stated that he agreed with Alderman Conroy’s statement concerning where the TIF dollars are being spent. Alderman Pauley indicated that he would be voting to approve the project due to the project being done in phases, which will require Council approval.

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo stated that the Armory space is an important and scenic space; and the City needs to make it a valuable and useful space.

After more discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Pauley, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, Alderman Conroy and Alderman Tollenaer.

Agenda Item #21

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request from Chris Thompson and Karen Ganzer to apply for a Special Use Permit to operate a neighborhood bakery and café at 1815 24^th Street.

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo moved and Alderman Austin seconded to allow for the application of the Special Use Permit 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #22

Report from the City Clerk regarding the Plaza Events to be scheduled for the coming season, a Resolution for the Quad Cities Criterium, and requesting a waiver of application and event fees for the District’s two Gallery Hops including Red, White and Boom, and waiver of event fees for the Fourth Annual Labor Day Ride for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma sponsored by the Daiquiri Factory.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to approve the events and the waiver of fees as recommended, and adopt the Resolution. 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #23

Report from the City Clerk regarding an application from the Cornbelt Running Club to hold their Quad Cities Distance Classic Half Marathon and 5K Road Races on Sunday, May 11, 2008 beginning at 7:30 a.m.

Alderman Tollenaer moved and Alderwoman Murphy seconded to approve the event application 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #24

Items from the City Manager’s Memorandum Packet.

City Manager John Phillips brought to Council’s attention the Responsible Hospitality Institutes report that was included in the memo packet. Mr. Phillips stated that at the next Study Session on Monday, March 3, 2008 there would be an opportunity to discuss the report.

Mr. Phillips commented on a memorandum regarding an Ordinance on the Downtown security area and the fees that are associated with it. Mr. Phillips offered that the Ordinance states that the surcharge is subject to being modified annually prior to May 1^st of each year to reflect any changes in pay rates that the City is legally and contractually obligated to pay its officers to provide security in the Downtown security area.

City Manager Phillips also noted that in the memo packet there was information from the Boaters Advisory Committee regarding the results of the survey of boaters.

Alderman Pauley stated that last week he had the opportunity to go to Washington along with Alderman Austin, Mayor Schwiebert and City Manager Phillips to meet with all the legislators and staff on the Illinois and Iowa side. Alderman Pauley noted that it was a very interesting meeting. Alderman Pauley stated that there were four (4) general issues discussed. The first issue discussed was sewer and water. In the Quad Cities, 202 million dollars is needed, 63 million dollars of which is needed in Rock Island. Alderman Pauley stated that they were told there is no money available. Alderman Pauley commented that the I74 Bridge was discussed regarding the need for a new bridge from Moline to Bettendorf. Alderman Pauley also mentioned that the issue regarding Amtrak (passenger rail service) was discussed. Alderman Pauley noted that they are putting money in the budget for it and giving money to the states. Alderman Pauley offered that the last issue discussed was riverfront enhancements regarding Rock Island and Davenport working together for assistance with the water taxi.

Alderman Austin stated that he also had the opportunity to go to Washington. Alderman Austin offered that they had group and individual staff discussions. Alderman Austin pointed out that staff were very youthful, knowledgeable, enthusiastic and honest; and painted a realistic picture of the funding opportunities that are available. Alderman Austin stated that even though funding may be tight this year, it puts the City in a good position (by being there this year) to move the projects up on the list.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that they did hear from a number of Congressmen and Senators again this year; and were told that what they are doing gives the Congressmen and Senators a clear set of directions to assist them in doing their jobs.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that one of the Federal Legislators suggested that the kinds of infrastructure programs (combined sewer overflow; passenger rail service; building bridges or schools etc.) at the Federal level are the greatest economic stimulants to offset a recession because the dollars are spent locally, the jobs are created locally and the resources are generated locally. Mayor Schwiebert offered that the benefits of the projects would be local and long term.

Mayor Schwiebert also discussed passenger rail service stating that Senator Durbin announced on Monday that at the Federal level, they have increased appropriations; and it appears it is going to be a veto proof majority that will pass the legislation. Mayor Schwiebert offered that this will increase funding for the construction of a variety of mass transit, but specifically passenger rail, which could increase Federal dollars, which could match State dollars in terms of providing for construction of passenger rail service.

Agenda Item #25

Other Business

None

Agenda Item #26

No Executive Session.

An Executive Session on Litigation was held prior to the meeting.

Agenda Item #27

Recess

The motion to recess was incorrectly stated on the Agenda. The correct motion reads as follows; Motion to recess to Saturday, February 23, 2008 at 8:00 a.m.

A motion was made by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and seconded by Alderman Austin to recess to Saturday, February 23, 2008 at 8:00 a.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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

The meeting was recessed at 7:40 p.m.

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Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk