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, Information Technology Services Department Assistant Director Tim Bain and Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen.

OVERVIEW OF NEW OUTLOOK E-MAIL SYSTEM

City Manager John Phillips led the discussion by stating that the City has converted to a new e-mail system. Mr. Phillips commented that each Council member handles the method for receiving their e-mails for City business differently. It was noted that with the new Outlook e-mail system, there will be easier access to obtain e-mails that are sent to each Council member. Mr. Phillips indicated that Information Technology Services Department Assistant Director Tim Bain will update Council on this new system to see if anyone wants to change how they receive e-mails and how the information is transmitted.

Mr. Bain distributed business cards to each Council member with their User-ID’s and Passwords. Mr. Bain then explained to Council how to use the new Outlook e-mail system. After Mr. Bain showed Council what the new system entails, he stated that there is a potential for this system in the future to exchange additional information (Memo and Agenda packets) that Council already receives, which could be delivered electronically rather than in paper format.

Mr. Phillips indicated that several Council members receive their own City mail. However, for the Council members that don’t, Executive Secretary Linda Rutten prints the e-mails, and they are delivered on Friday in the mail packets. Mr. Phillips noted that when the e-mails are printed, it runs the risk that e-mails are received late, especially if it is an important message in regards to a complaint, request or an upcoming event. Mr. Phillips added that this new system provides another option.

Alderwoman Murphy inquired to Ms. Rutten if the e-mail messages are photocopied from her e-mail. Ms. Rutten offered that all e-mails are forwarded directly to Alderwoman Murphy’s own e-mail account; and e-mail messages are only printed for Council members that do not access their own accounts. Ms. Rutten also discussed several options for Council in regards to accessing their accounts and printing e-mail messages.

After more discussion, six Council members agreed that they would begin to access their own City e-mail accounts.

MISCELLANEOUS

City Manager John Phillips brought to the Council’s attention an item that is on the Agenda for this evening regarding the Quad City Marathon; and a possible request for security fees being waived. Mr. Phillips discussed the City Policy of not providing support for all these types of events and activities.

RESPONSIBLE HOSPITALITY INSTITUTE REPORT

Mr. Phillips stated that a lot of City staff as well as Renaissance Rock Island were involved in the process regarding the Responsible Hospitality Institute. The idea was to evaluate and look at the night life in the District. Mr. Phillips noted that the Responsible Hospitality Institute were here late last year and provided a report; and the final report was submitted to Council for review.

Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen stated that this is part of a process that is an element of a larger set of activities that is focused on the Downtown area. The process engaged participation of business owners and operators, officials and bar owners and operators in a structured effort to look at the Arts and Entertainment District Downtown to see how it was functioning; and to see if there were any issues that needed to be addressed regarding establishing a link for the vitality of the Downtown in the present as well as the future.

Mr. Carmen offered that some of the items that were identified in the Responsible Hospitality Plan have already been initiated. One initiated item is the late night transportation element. Mr. Carmen offered that the group that was involved in that plan conducted an electronic survey (for Augustana College students) that inquired as to whether or not there was an interest in late night transportation from the District back to the college. It was noted that this was in regards to late night partying. Mr. Carmen stated that the survey showed that there was an interest. As a result, MetroLink approved a six week program for this that will start in April.

Mr. Carmen indicated that another element was to establish effective communication forums. One of the elements included in that was the smoking ban. Mr. Carmen discussed a number of other elements that were identified that Council approved as part of the Capital plan and are being moved forward. Various elements included; enhancing downtown alleys, electrical utilities and green lighting.

Mr. Carmen offered that there were other large issues that still need to be addressed including; improving the negative perception of safety in the District and defining community standards. Council discussed elements of these issues.

Mr. Carmen stated that there were a number of other issues that he did not cover, but offered that these issues represented reactions to opinions offered by property owners, business owners and operators. Mr. Carmen acknowledged that from the Responsible Hospitality Institute’s perspective, they used those opinions and reflected on them relative to other arts and entertainment districts; and attempted to establish a parallel of what the City of Rock Island has Downtown verses what other cities have done to address some of these issues. Mr. Carmen concluded that the Responsible Hospitality Institute report provides a framework to accomplish issues that are of concern for the City’s Downtown District.

Council members then discussed the Responsible Hospitality Institute Report regarding comparative cities and resource bases. Also included in the discussion were the negative perceptions in relation to safety issues in the District; the vibrancy of the Downtown and Arts and Entertainment District; restructuring liquor license fees in regards to responsible entertainment; and installing green lighting, visitor kiosks, and art displays for vacant storefronts.

UPDATE ON DOWNTOWN STRATEGIC PLAN

Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen updated Council on the Downtown Strategic Plan. Mr. Carmen stated that one current and significant public investment that is underway is the McKesson building redevelopment. Mr. Carmen noted that it will have 22 units in which the first floor will have space for commercial activities; and a green roof is in the works. Mr. Carmen commented that landscaping was enhanced in the Downtown Plaza area with hanging baskets that were fabricated by the Parks Department, and new planters were installed. These will be maintained and expanded this coming year. Mr. Carmen indicated that other physical improvements that have been completed or are planned include; alley and other pedestrian lighting, improved signage, kiosks and sewer odor control efforts.

Mr. Carmen offered that the Armory Park Riverfront development is moving forward. It was noted that the Illinois 92 Traffic Study has been completed. In addition, the Arts Plan has been approved; and there is money in the budget for that along with the DeSoto building; and collaboration with neighboring communities is ongoing.

Mr. Carmen stated that the Downtown is changing; it is not just a place to work and play. The idea of the Downtown being a place to live is evolving. Mr. Carmen commented that the City is dealing with the implications of people living Downtown to a greater degree in numbers that has not been seen for a long time. Mr. Carmen concluded that there has been significant work accomplished and underway.

ADJOURNMENT

A motion made by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and seconded by Alderman Austin 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 6:31 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 Murphy gave the Invocation.

Agenda Item #5

Minutes of the Meeting of February 18, 2008; and Minutes of the Special Meeting of February 23, 2008.

A motion was made by Alderwoman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of February 18, 2008; and Minutes of the Special Meeting of February 23, 2008 as printed. 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

Proclamation declaring the week of March 2 through March 8, 2008 as National Lutheran Schools Week.

Kari Myer and Xavier Plym from Immanuel Lutheran School stepped forward, and Mayor Schwiebert read the Proclamation declaring the week of March 2 through March 8, 2008 as National Lutheran Schools Week. Mayor Schwiebert thanked the young individuals for attending the meeting and gave both students the Proclamation to take back to their school.

Agenda Item #7

Proclamation declaring March 10, 2008 as Old Glory’s Journey of Remembrance Day.

Mayor Schwiebert read the Proclamation declaring March 10, 2008 as Old Glory’s Journey of Remembrance Day. Mayor Schwiebert stated that the City would make sure that Sean Baumgartner from the Rock Island Arsenal National Cemetery would receive the Proclamation.

Agenda Item #8

Continued Public Hearing on a request from Scott Ryder (owner of Aqualetic Swim Club of the Quad Cities) to amend a Special Use Permit to rent the clubhouse facility for receptions and parties at 3204 27^th Avenue.

Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 6:51 p.m. and opened a continuation of the Public Hearing regarding a request from Scott Ryder (owner of Aqualetic Swim Club of the Quad Cities) to amend a Special Use Permit to rent the clubhouse facility for receptions and parties at 3204 27^th Avenue.

The Mayor stated that the reason for the continuation of the Public Hearing was in regards to the property owners in the neighborhood not being provided with notice regarding the hours of operation for parties and receptions at the clubhouse facility.

Mayor Schwiebert swore in Mr. Ryder.

Mr. Ryder indicated that the proposed hours for club member receptions and parties would be on Friday and Saturday nights until 11:00 p.m. with the idea of closing at 10:00 p.m., to make sure that everyone is out of the facility by 10:00 p.m.

Alderwoman Murphy stated that the pool club operational hours were Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Alderwoman Murphy inquired if the swim club would be open on Sundays.

Mr. Ryder stated that it was explained to him by staff that there were no hours of restriction on Sundays for pool club operational hours.

Alderman Austin stated that in the past, the swim club had been open on Sundays.

Alderman Conroy inquired if Mr. Ryder was allowed to have parties for members.

Mr. Ryder stated that it was his understanding that parties were not allowed at all by members. Mr. Ryder added that he was having the Public Hearing for this reason that members may be allowed to have special events.

Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen to explain the difference between the pool operation verses private parties for members and invited guests.

Mr. Carmen stated that the hours of operation of the pool with party activities are different from what has been operated at the property in the past. There was a concern in the past that something was occurring after regular hours of activity of the operation that were private in nature for members. Mr. Carmen indicated that this has a potential effect on the neighborhood that is different from the way things have been in the past. Mr. Carmen also stated that the swim club operation was allowed because it was approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals many decades ago and continued to operate.

More discussion followed regarding the swim club hours and party hours. Mayor Schwiebert then stated that the Board of Zoning Appeals approved the pool usage but did not approve pool hours. Mr. Carmen stated that they did not specifically identify the hours in their ruling.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that limits would need to be put on the hours of operation of the swim club along with the issues regarding reception and parties.

After more discussion surrounding pool operation hours and party and reception hours, Mayor Schwiebert clarified the operational hours of the swim club and the entertainment hours, which included operational hours of 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday through Sunday from May through September for the swim club; hours for entertainment (parties and receptions) running until 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Mayor Schwiebert inquired as to whether there was anyone who wished to speak in favor of the Special Use Permit application.

Ms. Patricia Marble of 3270 26^th Avenue stepped forward. Mayor Schwiebert swore in Ms. Marble.

Ms. Marble stated that she was in support of the Aqualetic being reopened and applauded Mr. Ryder. Ms. Marble stated that she has lived in that neighborhood for five years and the hours and the noise has not been a problem.

With no other individuals wishing to speak in favor of the Special Use Permit application, Mayor Schwiebert inquired as to whether there was anyone who wished to speak in opposition to the Special Use Permit application.

Mr. Mark Crawford of Davenport, who in the past had resided at 3112 27^th Avenue, stepped forward. The Mayor swore in Mr. Crawford.

Mr. Crawford stated that his mother lives in the neighborhood, and presented a petition to Council signed by neighbors opposing the Special Use Permit application. Mr. Crawford voiced concerns regarding noise, traffic congestion and parking as being possible problems.

Alderman Austin stated that he hoped a middle ground could be reached that would satisfy Mr. Ryder as well as the neighbors.

Alderman Brooks reiterated Alderman Austin’s statement.

Mr. James Dsigalis stepped forward. Mayor Schwiebert swore in Mr. Dsigalis.

Mr. Dsigalis of 2615 32^nd Street stated that he had lived in that neighborhood since 1961, and voiced strong concerns regarding the parking; the noise in the neighborhood; the parties and traffic congestion.

Mr. Bob Steeber of 2628 32^nd Street stepped forward. Mayor Schwiebert swore in Mr. Steeber.

Mr. Steeber voiced concerns regarding music at the facility. Mr. Steeber stated that if there was going to be music, it should be turned off by 9:00 p.m. Mr. Steeber did not oppose the opening of the swim club.

Mr. Ryder then stepped forward and stated that currently, there is no sound amplification at the facility. Mr. Ryder commented that he may add background music. Mr. Ryder noted that if he would have a band that would be a separate permit process.

After more discussion, and 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 7:40 p.m.

Alderwoman Murphy stated that the facility had been there a long time and was in support of Mr. Ryder. Alderwoman Murphy offered that the neighbors could have some control over the parking issues with the Ordinance that the City has regarding residential parking, which would eliminate the problem of the Aqualetic patrons parking on the street.

A motion was then made by Alderwoman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to approve the operational hours of the swim club from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Sunday from May until September; Friday and Saturday nights only from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for parties and receptions (outdoor activities) from May until September.

Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert stating that this would be with the understanding that no amplified sound be allowed after 6:00 p.m. unless it is approved through the Sound Amplification Permit process.

Alderman Pauley stated that he would like to see the Fire Department check the availability for emergency response vehicles to have the ability to reach the site through 32^nd Street in case there is an incident.

Alderwoman Murphy inquired if there were any stop signs at the site. It was noted there were no stop signs.

More discussion followed regarding the visibility, requirements and placement of a stop sign.

Mayor Schwiebert inquired to Alderwoman Murphy if she would like to add as an amendment to the motion that a stop sign be posted on the exit from the property. Alderwoman Murphy stated yes and Alderman Pauley seconded.

The amended motion reads as follows;

It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman Pauley to include the posting of a stop sign that would be visible to people exiting on to 32^nd 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.

More discussion followed with Mr. Ryder stating that he was opposed to having the restriction of 7:00 p.m. for the swim club hours.

After more discussion, Alderman Austin motioned to amend the operational hours from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Alderman Tollenaer seconded.

The amended motion reads as follows;

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to amend the operational hours of the swim club from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. the motion carried by the 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.

With no more discussion, the amended main motion reads as follows;

A motion was made by Alderwoman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to approve the operational hours of the swim club from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Sunday from May until September; Friday and Saturday nights only from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for parties and receptions (outdoor activities) from May until September; and the posting of a stop sign that would be visible to people exiting on to 32^nd 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 #9

Public Hearing on a request from Tim Bryan (Hertz Equipment Rental) for a Special Use Permit to operate a heavy equipment rental/sales business with outside storage at 500 16^th Street.

Note: By request of the applicant (Tim Bryan), the Public Hearing for the Special Use Permit request scheduled for Monday, March 3, 2008 has been deferred until Monday, March 10, 2008.

Agenda Item #10

CLAIMS

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderman Pauley, 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 Personnel Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,338.19 to Konecky, Koenig, Kutsunis and Weng for legal services rendered for February 2008.

b. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $11,536.25 to Kelly Construction for the 2007 Mudjacking Program. (054)

c. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #2 in the amount of $20,484.00 to LC United Painting Company for 38^th Street Water Tower Painting. (059)

Agenda Item #11

Claims for the weeks of February 15 through February 28 in the amount of $1,397,741.52.

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Conroy 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 #12

Payroll for the weeks of February 11 through February 24 in the amount of $1,101,436.51.

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Austin 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 #13

Report from the Public Works Department regarding the purchase of Janitorial supplies from Great Western Supply Company in the amount of $7,631.26 and AMSAN Peoria in the amount of $1,897.46.

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the purchases 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 Information Technology Services Department regarding the purchase of (two) financial server hardware from Hewlett-Packard Company in the amount of $9,870.00, and server software from CDW Government Inc. in the amount of $4,465.38.

Alderman Tollenaer moved and Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo seconded to approve the purchases 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 Dredge Pit Preparation, recommending the bid be awarded to C.H. Langman and Son Inc. in the amount of $63,591.70.

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to award the bid 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 #16

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding bids for the demolition of 14 residential properties, recommending the bid be awarded to C.H. Langman and Son Inc. in the amount of $191,536.00.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to award the bid as recommended, and authorize the City Manager to execute the documents.

Discussion followed with Alderman Tollenaer stating that he was under the impression that McAdams was the low bidder.

Chief Building Official Tom Ayers stated that Matt’s Excavating out of Rockford was the low bidder; and neither of those bids were responsive. The City Attorney reviewed both and concurred with the non-responsiveness.

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

Agenda Item #17

Report from the Public Works Department regarding an agreement with Missman, Stanley and Associates for the next phase of parking ramp renovations.

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo 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 #18

Report from the Public Works Department regarding an Adopt A Highway agreement with the Junior High Drop In Center to adopt 30^th Street from 7^th to 18^th Avenue.

Alderman Austin moved and Alderwoman Murphy seconded to approve the contract 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 #19

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the sale of City owned property at 418 10^th Street.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the sale of City owned property at 418 10^th Street to the adjacent property owner based on the stated terms as recommended, authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #20

Report from the Public Works Department regarding a Resolution appropriating $200,000.00 of Motor Fuel Tax funds for street maintenance.

Alderman Tollenaer moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to adopt the Resolution as recommended.

Discussion followed with Alderman Brooks inquiring as to whether the funds were for the damage that has occurred this past winter.

Public Works Director Bob Hawes stepped forward and responded no to Alderman Brook’s question. Mr. Hawes stated that the City appropriates $200,000.00 of Motor Fuel funds every year. The Resolution needs to be passed so the money can be spent next year.

Mr. Hawes then stated that currently, temporary materials are used to fill the pot holes on the City streets. Mr. Hawes added that once the weather reaches 50 degrees, asphalt maintenance can be done.

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

Agenda Item #21

Report from the City Clerk regarding a request from Cabanas for a one-time only hours change to their outdoor entertainment schedule for Saturday, March 15, 2008.

It was moved by Alderman Tollenaer, seconded by Alderman Brooks 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.

Discussion followed with Alderman Pauley stating that a reason was not stated as to why Cabanas wanted all day hours for that particular Saturday.

City Manager John Phillips stated that the reason is Saint Patrick’s Day.

Alderman Pauley stated that the reason still was not stated. Alderman Pauley added that the hours listed should read 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 midnight instead of 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 a.m.

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

Agenda Item #22

Report from the City Clerk regarding a request from Hilltop Tavern to hold their fourth Green Bucket Party outside on Saturday, March 29, 2008 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Conroy seconded to approve the event for Hilltop Tavern 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 #23

Report from the City Clerk regarding a Plaza event application from Quad City Arts for their Metro Arts Program to be held June 9 through July 11, 2008.

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the event application for the Metro Arts Program 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

Report from the City Clerk regarding a request from Broadway Presbyterian Church to close off a portion of 23^rd Street from 7^th Avenue to the end of their property on Saturday, September 6, 2008 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for a Community Fair with Greenbush Neighbors and Lincoln School.

Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderman Austin seconded to approve the request 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 #25

Report from the City Clerk regarding an application for an Activity Permit and Highway Resolution for the Quad City Marathon to be held on Sunday, September 28, 2008.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve application and adopt the Resolution 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.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that in regards to Item #8; a roll call should have been taken instead of a voice vote. The City Clerk called the roll for Agenda Item #8 regarding the Public Hearing on the Aqualetic Club.

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 # 26

Items from the City Manager’s Memorandum Packet.

City Manager John Phillips brought to Council’s attention the Downtown TIF District cash flow. Mr. Phillips stated that the last time this issue was discussed; it was in regards to Armory Park. Mr. Phillips commented that a cash flow projection was received and ideas were discussed regarding modifying that projection. One of the ideas was to include anticipated maintenance of Armory Park as well as the possibility of covering 1^st avenue storm sewer. Mr. Phillips indicated that the cash flow has been revised to include from the TIF; the maintenance as well as the use of TIF for the debt service for the sewer project on 1^st Avenue. This would allow $10,000.000.00 for Armory Park and up to $3,000.000.00 for the sewer. Mr. Phillips noted that the City is reviewing this with the bond council. The City needs to make a decision very soon. If the Council approves, the City plans to sell bonds for the sewer in May.

Mayor Schwiebert inquired regarding the TIF dollar amounts and the projects associated with the TIF.

Community and Economic Development Director Greg Champagne explained the various dollar amounts, projections and projects that were included in the TIF.

Alderman Austin stated that he was pleased that the Finance Department was recognized by the Governors of Finance Officers Association for their work with the (Budget) audit.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that he was impressed by the professionalism, thoroughness and creativity of staff in spending funds wisely this year regarding the budget as well as the Staff’s professionalism in other activities.

Agenda Item #27

Other Business

None

Agenda Item #28

No Executive Session.

An Executive Session was not held.

Agenda Item #29

Recess

A motion was made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to recess to Monday, March 10, 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, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

The meeting was recessed at 8:13 p.m.

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Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk