CITY OF ROCK ISLAND

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 Aldermen Terry M.A. Brooks I., David Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Joy Murphy and Charles O. Austin III. Also present were City Manager John Phillips, Parks and Recreation Director Bill Nelson, Community and Economic Development Director Greg Champagne and Renaissance Rock Island President Brian Hollenback. Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert arrived at 5:22 p.m., City Attorney John Konecky arrived at 6:02 p.m. Alderwoman Margie Mejia-Caraballo was absent.

NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM APPLICATION

City Manager John Phillips stated that the Neighborhood Stabilization Program is a grant opportunity with the stimulus funding that has come down through the State of Illinois. Mr. Phillips offered that the City is in a competitive application for funding for that issue. Mr. Phillips indicated that City staff has been working together with Renaissance staff to come up with ideas as to what should be included in the application.

City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Community and Economic Development Director Greg Champagne to present details to Council as it relates to the recommendations for the application for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program.

Mr. Champagne stated that this program was part of an act of Congress that was passed in 2008 called the Housing and Economic Recovery Act. Mr. Champagne added that it is a response to the foreclosure crisis that this country is facing. Mr. Champagne stated that the program makes available approximately 3.9 billion dollars nationwide to address foreclosure issues in neighborhoods. It was noted that there is approximately 47 million dollars that will be available throughout the State of Illinois. Mr. Champagne indicated that the City has been working with Renaissance Rock Island to put together an application that will be competitive. It was noted that at the State level, the program is being administered by the Department of Human Services in cooperation with the Department of Congress and Economic Opportunity and the Illinois Housing Development Authority.

Mr. Champagne pointed out that staff has crafted a 7.5 million dollar application to address several neighborhood stabilization issues in the community. Mr. Champagne stated that there are five (5) elements to the grant application; two (2) of the elements involve the City and three (3) elements involve Rock Island Economic Growth.

Mr. Champagne offered that the first element includes the City’s request of $375,000.00 to do a Demolition Program. It was noted that the average cost to demolish a structure is approximately $15,000.00. Mr. Champagne offered that the $375,000.00 should take care of approximately 25 properties. Mr. Champagne added that the other element of the application that involves the City is the Neighborhood Strategy Program Redevelopment Approach. Mr. Champagne explained that the City is requesting 1.5 million dollars to support the Martin Luther King Center expansion and renovation project, to implement plans for Douglas Park’s redesign and to create the King Center Park on the east side of 9^th Street north of 7^th Avenue.

Mr. Hollenback then explained Rock Island Economic Growth’s three (3) elements to the grant application.

Mr. Hollenback discussed the Homebuyer Program and stated that Growth will purchase and rehabilitate 20 properties for homeownership. It was noted that properties would be selected based on their status as foreclosed, abandoned or vacant, their impact on the neighborhood, their proximity to other investment and their furtherance of existing community development plans. It was noted that the estimated cost would be approximately $3,000,000.00.

Mr. Hollenback stated that another element involves a Rental Program in which Rock Island Economic Growth will purchase an underutilized Downtown structure for adaptive reuse. The building will be rehabilitated to create 10 rental units targeting up to 120% of the area median income. Mr. Hollenback acknowledged that the estimated cost is $2,129,175.00.

The last element as Mr. Hollenback noted involves a residential Financing Program in which Rock Island Economic Growth is working on to secure first mortgage loan commitments with local financial institutions to assist prospective homebuyers. It was noted that additional funding will be pursued through the Financing Program to make available soft second mortgages to further assist households in achieving and maintaining homeownership.

Discussion followed regarding the Neighborhood Stabilization Program application as it relates to obtaining funding for the priority projects.

LIQUOR LICENSE MODIFICATIONS FOR PARKS

City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Park and Recreation Director Bill Nelson to review with Council the proposed changes to the Liquor Ordinance as it relates to Park facilities.

Mr. Nelson stated that this primarily deals with the issue of golf, Armory Park and possibly Hauberg Civic Center. Mr. Nelson indicated that currently, Parks and Recreation sells beer and wine (wine coolers) at the golf courses and ball field complex. In the past, there was the practice of groups bringing spirits to the golf courses and serving in the shelter area. The practice was not appropriate with the license so it was discontinued. Mr. Nelson offered that it had hurt business a little due to the inability to provide spirits at the courses for some of the golf outings. Mr. Nelson offered that the goal is to provide spirits at the golf courses for outings. It was noted that this is available at various area golf courses.

Mr. Nelson stated that Parks and Recreation is asking for the ability (under the Parks and Recreation Ordinance that deals with liquor) to allow the sale of spirits using airline bottles for the purposes of pouring, serving and inventory control. Mr. Nelson indicated that Parks and Recreation is also looking to closely match the Plaza Ordinance for the future Armory Park. Mr. Nelson added that when the facility comes online, there will be requests for events similar to the Plaza and a process will be needed that would follow the current City Ordinances. Mr. Nelson explained that a section would be added to the temporary license part of the Ordinance that allows fraternal groups, churches and other groups (that currently have the ability to sell alcohol) to sell alcohol for special events; they would also have that opportunity at Armory Park. Mr. Nelson added that the difference would be that they would have to obtain prior approval from the Park Board before going before the Liquor Commission. Mr. Nelson added that there would be two (2) different areas where the language would be changed in the Ordinances, which is the actual Liquor Ordinance and a section in the Parks and Recreation Ordinance regarding playground rules.

It was noted that the Park Board has not yet come to the conclusion as to whether they would want to sell beer and wine at the Hauberg Center. However, the wording of the Ordinance would give them the ability to identify that as a facility where beer and wine could be sold.

Discussion followed regarding the use of airline bottles as it relates to the pouring, serving and control of the spirits at the golf courses; the serving, pouring and selling of alcoholic beverages as it relates to Armory Park; and the issue of temporary liquor licenses as it relates to the uses of the Plaza.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that there needs to be some clarification regarding the language in the proposed modifications to the Liquor Ordinance as it relates to Parks and Recreation. Mayor Schwiebert indicated that under Section 3-8 Class (g) license, the sentence states that: The class (g) license also permits the sale of beer and wine at identified facilities, permitted by the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Board. Mayor Schwiebert stated that the amendment should state that: The class (g) license also permits the sale of beer and wine at identified facilities, operated or maintained by the Park and Recreation Department.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that another revision in regards to the Park Ordinance relates to Park and Playground Rules: In section 14-20, the sentence states: The sale and possession of beer, wine or other intoxicating liquor is permitted if it is purchased from employees of the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Department or from a qualified vendor or licensee issued an (h) Temporary Liquor License, and only in those areas previously so designated by the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Board. Mayor Schwiebert stated that the correction should state that: The sale and possession of beer, wine or other intoxicating liquor is permitted if it is purchased from employees of the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Department or from a qualified vendor or licensee issued a Temporary Liquor License, and only in those areas previously so designated by the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Board. The Mayor added that it is not an (h) license; it is a (t) temporary license.

City Manager Phillips stated that this item is on the Agenda this evening and will be referred to the City Attorney for an Ordinance; it will come back to Council in Ordinance form.

MISCELLANEOUS

(Care Homes)

City Manager Phillips stated that last week questions were raised regarding the small care home that was proposed for a residential R-2 area. The question was raised as to whether or not it is a permitted use within the current Zoning Ordinance. Mr. Phillips offered that a letter from Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen was sent out in March and contained a definition of the small care home. According to Mr. Carmen’s interpretation, ARC was notified that it was a permitted use under the Ordinance. It was noted that the City Attorney has been researching this matter.

Mr. Phillips stated that it relates to some extent back to 1988 and the amendments to the Fair Housing Act. Mr. Phillips explained that after the act was passed in Congress, the City of Rock Island along with most other cities amended their Zoning Ordinances because they could not require Special Use Permits for people in protective classes. It was noted that under the Fair Housing Act, those with physical and mental disabilities are considered a protective class. Mr. Phillips added that based on that interpretation, the City feels it is a permitted use.

Discussion followed with Alderwoman Murphy clarifying as to whether a Special Use Permit would be required.

Mr. Phillips stated that a Special Use Permit would not be required for a care home. Mr. Phillips defined it as a small residential as containing a single one-family dwelling unit for eight (8) persons or fewer plus supervisor oversight personnel living together in a single housekeeping unit for primary purposes of providing shelter in a family like atmosphere.

Mr. Phillips stated that there are two (2) issues; one is if the City is interpreting the Ordinance properly as it relates to the request regarding the care home and the other issue is whether or not the Ordinance could be modified.

Council discussed the issues regarding past amendments and court cases as it relates to the Fair Housing Act and fraternities and sororities as it relates to the Zoning Ordinance.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that under the current Ordinance, group homes are permitted and protected classes cannot be discriminated against. If group homes were to be disallowed within the zoning classification, that may be a different situation. But, you cannot allow certain group homes and then prohibit others if they are a protected class.

Many residents from the neighborhood attended the Study Session and voiced their concerns.

Mr. Steve DePron stated that he lived next door to the proposed site for the care home. Mr. DePron offered that he was shocked to read that in an R-1 and R-2 residential neighborhood that there could be eight (8) unrelated people living in a home. Mr. DePron acknowledged that he was not against the ARC organization; he was against eight (8) of anything. Mr. DePron was concerned in regards to the care home affecting the property values of the homes in the neighborhood as it relates to the resale value of the homes and the character of the neighborhood in which Mr. DePron offered that this is a low density residential neighborhood.

Mrs. DePron voiced concerns regarding their home being an investment and the property values will decrease if a group home is placed in the neighborhood.

Other neighbors voiced the same or similar concerns as Mr. and Mrs. DePron had.

City Attorney John Konecky responded to the question as to whether or not Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen’s interpretation was correct as to whether or not to have this kind of a facility (group home) in an R-2 district.

City Attorney Konecky stated that he believed that the Fair Housing Act Amendments of 1988 holds. Mr. Konecky offered that under the Fair Housing Act, there is a Federal Mandate that said that people (ARC clients) have to be treated in a preferred standard. Mr. Konecky indicated that Rock Island is not the only city that has this situation. The City can regulate students that live together more easily than these particular group homes.

Council discussed Federal mandates and the Amendments of 1989 and 1990 in relation to the Fair Housing Act, protective classes as it relates to group homes residing in residential neighborhoods and discriminatory clauses as it relates to physically or mentally disabled individuals.

Several neighborhood residents voiced their concerns regarding citizen’s rights, property values as it relates to zoning issues in regards to care homes, the issue of diversity in the neighborhood and other alternatives for group housing in other areas rather than in the previously mentioned neighborhood.

Ms. Jan Hogan, President of the Board of Directors for the ARC stated that one of the goals of ARC is to move the individuals into a community setting and not be institutionalized. Ms. Hogan added that ARC is responsive to the neighbors’ concerns.

After more discussion, it was noted that Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen and City Attorney Konecky would try and research these issues and come back to address these issues and the question of what kind of limitations could be put on any type of group facility in a residential area as it relates to the Zoning Ordinances previously mentioned.

ADJOURNMENT

A motion made by Alderman Conroy 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 Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 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, 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. Alderman Austin gave the Invocation.

Agenda Item #5

Minutes of the Meeting of April 13, 2009.

A motion was made by Alderwoman Murphy and seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of April 13, 2009 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

Update Rock Island by Mayor Schwiebert.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that information was received from Police Chief Wright regarding Police activity on crime. Mayor Schwiebert offered that the Police have reported that Part 1 and Part 1 violent crimes are both down 3% when comparing year end totals from 2008 to 2007. The Mayor added that reported crimes are down 45% for Part 1 crimes and down 22% for violent crime when compared to the record highs in the 1990’s.

Mayor Schwiebert offered that the Police Department uses many crime fighting approaches including the use of technology regarding video surveillance cameras to computerized tracking of crimes to improved communication equipment to help with detection and prosecution. The Mayor stated that the Rock Island Police Department has worked with many Federal agencies including the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to crack down on drug abusers, drug dealers and to remove certain firearms off of the streets. The Police have also worked aggressively in pursuing asset forfeiture. Mayor Schwiebert indicated that many various community partnerships have been formed including the Jr. Police Academy, working with the Community Caring Conference and the Lights and Sirens Program at Rock Island High School.

Mayor Schwiebert commended Rock Island Police Chief Wright and the entire Police Department for their innovative, multifaceted and aggressive approach to dealing with problems of crime.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that the Casino Rock Island, which is now Jumer’s Casino and Hotel has historically been a major funding source for the City with monies being used for infrastructure and economic development. Mayor Schwiebert added that the market share of the new Jumer’s Casino and Hotel has increased from 18.4% in 2008 to approximately 30% year to date for 2009.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that this evening Council will be approving the acceptance of bids for the second bid release for Armory Park. It was noted that the bids came in at 8.5% below the estimated amount by staff. The total of the bids was approximately $700,000.00.

Mayor Schwiebert indicated that the Rock Island Milan-School District celebrated a groundbreaking on April 14, 2009 at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School in Milan. The school will add 1,050 square feet to the existing building. It was noted that the ground breaking for Denkmann Elementary School was held on April 16, 2009; 4,400 square feet will be added to the existing structure.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that there will be many events taking place this spring in Rock Island.

The Mayor offered that the Keystone Neighborhood Association will host their annual Pancake Breakfast at St. John’s Lutheran Church Parish Hall on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., and there will also be a free Garden Workshop held from 9:15 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Topics for discussion will include the selection and care of shrubs and composting.

It was noted that the annual Downtown Cleanup will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2009 beginning at 8:00 a.m. The Mayor added that Keep Rock Island Beautiful and the District will be coordinating this event.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that Longview Park will hold their annual Spring Community Garage Sale on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and the Quad City Botanical Center will be hosting a Plant Sale on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that this would be his last Update Rock Island. The Mayor added that at the first Council meeting in May, the new City Council and new Mayor will take over. Mayor Schwiebert stated that he has enjoyed sharing information with the public on this great City of Rock Island at the City Council meetings. The Mayor thanked Community Marketing Director Jennifer Fowler with helping in the preparation of Update Rock Island. Mayor Schwiebert concluded by thanking everyone in the community who has helped to make good things happen in Rock Island.

Agenda Item #7

Proclamation declaring April 27, 2009 as Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert Day.

Pro Tem Mayor Joy Murphy read the Proclamation declaring April 27, 2009 as Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert Day.

Mayor Schwiebert accepted the Proclamation. A group picture was then taken with the Mayor, Council and City Manager.

Alderman Brooks thanked Mayor Schwiebert for his years of service and appreciated the time he has worked with Mayor Schwiebert.

Mayor Schwiebert thanked Alderman Brooks and stated to Council that it has been a real pleasure and honor to work with this fine group of public servants. Mayor Schwiebert thanked Council for their friendship and service.

Agenda Item #8

Proclamation declaring Saturday, May 2, 2009 as National Alliance On Mental Illness Day.

Mayor Schwiebert read the Proclamation declaring Saturday, May 2, 2009 as National Alliance On Mental Illness Day.

Ms. Ametra Carroll of 720 9^th Street accepted the Proclamation. Ms. Carroll thanked Mayor Schwiebert and Council for the Proclamation.

Ms. Carroll discussed the stigma she had in the past regarding mental illness and how it affects families. Ms. Carroll stated that the NAMI Walk will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2009. Ms. Carroll offered that a Trivia Night will be held at CSP on 3^rd Avenue on Friday, April 24, 2009. Ms. Carroll added that there will be a Fish Fry at the former Hope House next to Greater Antioch Baptist Church on Friday, May 1, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Ms. Carroll thanked Mayor Schwiebert for all that he has done for her in the last eight (8) years.

Agenda Item #9

Proclamation declaring the month of May, 2009 as Motorcycle Awareness Month.

Mayor Schwiebert read the Proclamation declaring the month of May, 2009 as Motorcycle Awareness Month.

Mr. Mike Krebs of 3124 Oak Street in Davenport, Iowa, and a member of the Bi-State Motorcycle Awareness Council accepted the Proclamation. Mr. Krebs thanked Council for supporting this annual event. Mr. Krebs offered that the Bi-State Motorcycle Awareness Council continues to support the Children’s Therapy Center.

Agenda Item #10

A Resolution regarding the passage of a comprehensive Capital Infrastructure Program.

It was moved by Alderman Pauley, seconded by Alderman Conroy to 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 #11

CLAIMS

It was moved by Alderman Pauley, seconded by Alderman Austin 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 $1,701.85 to State Farm Insurance-Subrogation Services for General Liability Claims.

b. Report from the Personnel Department regarding payment in the amount of $49,545.71 to Attorney David Goldberg (Crawford & Company) for Worker’s Compensation Settlement.

c. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $152,009.22 to White Hydropower Company for the Hydro Electric Power Plant Renovation and Expansion project. (120)

d. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #2 and final in the amount of $3,754.64 to Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities for the Alley Reconstruction south of 3^rd Avenue: 15^th to 16^th Street project. (122)

e. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #2 and final in the amount of $25,178.33 to Mid-America Pipe Services LLC for the 2008 Sewer Cleaning and Televising project. (123)

f. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 and final in the amount of $97,800.00 to Sterling Commercial Roofing Company for the Police Station Annex Roofing project. (124)

Agenda Item #12

Claims for the week of April 10 through April 16 in the amount of $350,195.15.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo 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

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the purchase of an artwork sculpture in the amount of $5,200.00.

Agenda Item #13 died for lack of a motion.

Agenda Item #14

Report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the 2009 Weed Control Spraying Program, recommending the bid be awarded to Kymbyl Komplete Kare in the amount of $13,916.51.

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer 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 #15

Report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the Armory Park Bid Release #2 project, recommending the bid be awarded to Williams/Valley Construction Management LLC in the amount of $7,027,935.00.

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

Discussion followed with Alderman Conroy stating that he would like to make an amendment to the motion. Alderman Conroy indicated that the amendment would state that the maintenance and care of the park would be money derived from the TIF Fund for as long as the TIF lasts in the Downtown Area.

Alderman Conroy pointed out that the reason for this amendment is due to the expense of taking care of this park. The expense could range from $100,000.00 plus, which would be an added burden to the property tax payers (Citizens of Rock Island). Alderman Conroy added that by using the TIF money, the funds would come from the Downtown area so that the City would not have to raise property taxes to take care of the park for the next 10 years. Alderman Conroy concluded that this item had been discussed at an earlier date. Alderman Conroy wanted to make this amendment to the original motion to make sure that funding would come from the TIF area.

After discussion, the amended motion reads as follows;

It was moved by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve that the maintenance and care of Armory Park would be money derived from the TIF Fund for as long as the TIF lasts in the Downtown Area. 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 main amended motion reads as follows;

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to award the bid as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents subject to that the maintenance and care of Armory Park would be money derived from the TIF Fund for as long as the TIF lasts in the Downtown Area. 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 an Emergency Demolition at 1222 6^th Avenue, recommending the bid be awarded to Coopman Trucking and Excavating in the amount of $7,800.00.

It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, 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 #17

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding an amendment to an agreement with Schreiber Anderson and Associates for the final design and construction services for Armory Park in the amount of $18,837.00.

Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to approve the amendment as recommended, authorize payment 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 Community and Economic Development Department regarding an agreement with the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau for the operation of the Centennial Bridge Visitors Center.

It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman Austin 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 #19

Report from the Parks and Recreation Department regarding an amendment to Chapter 3, Sec. 3-8 (g) and (h) of the Code of Ordinances regarding Alcoholic Liquor and Chapter 14, Article II, Sec. 14-20 regarding Recreational and Cultural Facilities of the Code of Ordinances.

Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Pauley seconded to approve the amendments as recommended, and to include the language as stated earlier in Study Session and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance.

Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert stating that the language needed to be clarified.

Mayor Schwiebert indicated that this would give the Parks and Recreation Department authority to sell beer, wine and spirits at golf courses and that is because through the supervision of the Parks Department, it is made sure that the City has allowed people to do things they sometimes like to do when they are golfing and to do it in moderation. A Parks Department administered program will allow this, and it would expand to being at other facilities that are operated by the Parks and Recreation Department.

Mayor Schwiebert then clarified the language for the amendments to the Ordinances.

The Mayor stated that under Section 3-8 Class (g) of the Code of Ordinances, the sentence states that: The class (g) license also permits the sale of beer and wine at identified facilities, permitted by the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Board. Mayor Schwiebert stated that the amendment should state that: The class (g) license also permits the sale of beer and wine at identified facilities, operated or maintained by the Park and Recreation Department.

Mayor Schwiebert stated that in section 14-20, which is part of the Park and Playground rules, the sentence states: The sale and possession of beer, wine or other intoxicating liquor is permitted if it is purchased from employees of the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Department or from a qualified vendor or licensee issued an (h) Temporary Liquor License, and only in those areas previously so designated by the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Board. Mayor Schwiebert stated that the amendment should be stated as: The sale and possession of beer, wine or other intoxicating liquor is permitted if it is purchased from employees of the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Department or from a qualified vendor or licensee issued a Temporary Liquor License, and only in those areas previously so designated by the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Board.

The Mayor added that the n in an and (h) will be taken out due to it being a (t) temporary liquor license. The Mayor offered that this will be administered by the Parks Department subject to the approval by the Liquor Commissioner.

After clarification of the language for the amendments to the Ordinances, 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 a Neighborhood Stabilization Program application.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the application as recommended and authorize staff to submit the application to the Illinois Department of Human Services. 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 the Metropolitan Youth Program for a street closing at the 700 block of 8^th Street (712 8^th Street) between 7^th Avenue and 9^th Avenue on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a block party.

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo 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 #22

Report from the City Clerk regarding an activity permit application and request for a street closure from the Quad Cities Law Enforcement Officers Memorial for the Law Enforcement Memorial procession and memorial service to be held on Sunday, May 3, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (Noon).

It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the application and street closing 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 #23

Items from the City Manager’s Memorandum Packet.

City Manager Phillips stated that included in the memo packet is a preliminary March 2009 Management Report. Mr. Phillips inquired upon Finance Director Bill Scott to provide the highlights of the preliminary report, which is for the end of the fiscal year. Mr. Phillips added that this is a preliminary report and modifications will be made to the report as they move further along in the auditing process.

Mr. Scott stated that the Auditors will be at City Hall the week of July 20, 2009. Mr. Scott offered that staff will be making a lot of adjustments to the information that has been provided to Council regarding the 2009 March Management Report. Mr. Scott pointed out several of the examples of what kinds of adjustments would be made. One type of adjustment as Mr. Scott noted was accrual in nature. Mr. Scott explained that on the first four pages of the report, the 2009 column of information is shown on a cash basis. Mr. Scott added that everything would have to be changed to an accrual basis. Mr. Scott explained that the period that revenue is earned needs to be matched to the accounting period. Mr. Scott added that another type of adjustment would be reclassifications and gave several examples regarding the Hydropower Plant.

Mr. Scott stated that there will be a lot of adjustments made and a second March Management Report would be provided to Council sometime in July. Mr. Scott offered that this preliminary March report is generally reasonable for the purposes of getting a general feel of the financial position of the City.

Mr. Scott stated that the reason the preliminary report has been provided to Council is due to the concern for tracking the major tax revenues that come into the General Fund. There is a concern that the City is seeing a decline in the revenues. Mr. Scott offered that the good news is that the City budgeted less in 2010 than in 2009.

Mr. Phillips stated that he would be attending the Illinois Municipal League Legislative Day in Springfield on Wednesday, April 22, 2009 and the Chamber of Commerce Quad City Day on Thursday, April 23, 2009. Mr. Phillips offered that the City is hopeful for obtaining some state assistance particularly with some of the applications that are out for stimulus where the State is involved in making these decisions. Mr. Phillips added that the City is positioning itself in the event that there is a capital bill that passes.

Mr. Phillips stated that there is information included in the memo packet regarding the City of Rock Island taking the lead for River Action on a grant to Moline Foundation for trail signs on the river. Mr. Phillips added that the City would be handling the accounting and bookkeeping for that on their behalf as well as other municipalities along the river.

Mr. Phillips offered that information was included in the memo packet regarding Green Initiatives. Mr. Phillips stated that one of the important issues that is currently being worked on is the Energy Assistance Block Grant in which the City is trying to obtain Federal and State funding to support some of the efforts of being more energy efficient.

Alderman Austin inquired as to whether Governor Quinn was coming to town for an event at the Hydro Power Plant.

Mr. Phillips stated that the Governor would not be at the Hydro Plant. The Governor will be coming to town and is suppose to be at the Center Station in Moline at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2009.

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo stated that she has enjoyed her time being on the City Council. It was a great learning experience. Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo offered that she would not be able to attend the celebration on Monday, April 27, 2009. Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo thanked Mayor Schwiebert for his support and guidance and looked forward to continuing to serve the community at other levels.

Alderwoman Murphy stated that the Keystone Neighborhood Association will hold their Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church Parish Hall at 4501 7^th Avenue. Alderwoman Murphy added that after the breakfast, there will be a free Garden Workshop, which will include topics on composting and the care and selection of shrubs.

Alderwoman Murphy stated that LRC Real Estate owns the Columbia Park redevelopment area and has put together a survey to collect information from residents on what they would like to see developed in the Columbia Park area. Alderwoman Murphy added that if anyone would like to access the survey, it is available at lrcrealestateinc.com.

Agenda Item #24

Other Business

Ms. Brenda, Isaac and Henry Thompson of 1235 37^th Avenue presented Mayor Mark Schwiebert with a book that was put together by the Thompsons. Ms. Thompson read the book to the Mayor. Ms. Thompson stated that the book was dedicated to Rock Island Mayor and First Lady, Mark and Debbie Schwiebert with appreciation for over 20 years of outstanding service and representation.

Mayor Schwiebert thanked the Thompsons for the presentation and the book.

Agenda Item #25

No Executive Session.

An Executive Session was not held.

Agenda Item #26

Recess

A motion was made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to recess to Monday, May 4, 2009 at 6:45 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 7:37 p.m.

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Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk