The Rock Island City Council met in Study Session at 5:00 p.m. at Ft. Armstrong. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M.A. Brooks I, David A. Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Daniel Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White, Joy Murphy, and Charles O. Austin III. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips, Parks and Recreation Director Bill Nelson, and Superintendent of Parks Dick Ewald. Others present were Renaissance Rock Island President Mike Thoms and Special Events Coordinator for The District Catherine Rodgers-Ingles.
City Manager John Phillips handed out copies of an Ordinance substitution for Agenda Item #23, copies of a new report for Agenda Item #18 and advised Council of a change in order for Agenda Items 9 and 10 which were to be reversed. He then introduced Rick Baker and Molly Foley of the Illinois Quad City Chamber of Commerce.
ILLINOIS QUAD CITY CHAMBER
BLUEPRINT 2010
Illinois Quad City Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Rick Baker and Vice President Molly Foley discussed the Chamber’s Blueprint 2010 plan highlighting their two main goals, which are human capital attraction and retention and business retention and expansion. They focused on the objectives and programs of each goal and the costs associated to implement these programs. Ms. Foley advised the Chamber plans to develop a young professionals network and improve the marketing to re-attract young talent and attract new talent to the Quad City area. Mr. Baker advised that on the business side the Chamber will work closer with existing businesses to retain and attract business to the area.
Alderman Conroy inquired as to whether this compliments or competes with Bi-State as far as gaining jobs. Mr. Baker advised that Bi-State is more data oriented; therefore, there is no competition or duplication. Alderman Conroy inquired as to which other entities have contributed or pledged to contribute to this program. Mr. Baker advised that Rock Island County is contributing $25,000 per year and Moline has advised they will try to work the program into their budget for next year. Ms. Foley advised the Chamber has reached 30% of their goal with another 30% pending. Alderman Conroy inquired as to how many other communities the Chamber plans to contact regarding this program. Mr. Baker advised they plan to contact East Moline, Silvis and possibly Geneseo.
Alderman Pauley inquired as to whether the Chamber has plans to assist individuals with resume writing to apply for jobs. Ms. Foley advised they offer an interactive “boomerang” website which acts as a connection between prospective employees and employers and includes a resume bank. She advised they are in the process of inventorying upcoming retirements and openings from local employers.
City Manager advised in order for the City to proceed this will need to be put in the budget planning for the next fiscal year and a report to be placed on the agenda for general support. Mayor Schwiebert advised this is a very worthy project and the City should support it for future growth and lead the way. Mr. Baker advised he would be happy to come back to Council with updates on the progress of this project.
DOWNTOWN LANDSCAPING
Parks and Recreation Director Bill Nelson advised the Parks Department is working with the Public Works Department and have developed a plan to distinguish responsibilities between the
departments with regard to downtown landscaping and maintenance. He advised the purpose of the departments working together would be to minimize or eliminate the need for outside contracting and create a responsible chain of command for the oversight of all downtown landscape and associated areas. Mr. Nelson informed that due to the drought and winter’s lack of moisture the City has suffered a major loss of plants, which will need to be assessed and replaced.
Superintendent of Parks Dick Ewald advised the basic area covered for downtown is 1st Avenue to 5th Avenue and the Centennial Bridge to the Botanical Center, all-inclusive. He advised the large planters and benches in the Plaza are maintained by the City and the small planters in the Plaza are the responsibility of the business owners. Renaissance Rock Island President Mike Thoms advised The District will take care of the plants and planting in the small planters and the businesses will maintain them.
City Manager Phillips advised this will continue to be a growing process, starting with the downtown area and then expanding after initial progress.
RED WHITE & BOOM
Renaissance Rock Island President Mike Thoms addressed Council regarding the proposed Red White & Boom celebration to take place July 3, 2006, which is an Independence Day Celebration that is a joint RiverVision venture between Davenport and Rock Island. He advised the RiverVision committee approached his organization to participate in this event by providing activities in Downtown Rock Island. He advised the proposed space to utilize for this event is the alley connecting 17th and 18th Streets between 1st and 2nd Avenues, and the adjacent parking lot. This event will be designed to appeal to families and children who wish to view the fireworks display from Downtown Rock Island and will have vendors, arts & crafts and various other family-oriented entertainment. City Manager Phillips advised this should be put on the next agenda for consideration.
TOUR OF FT. ARMSTRONG PROPERTY
The Mayor, Council members and staff were given a tour of the Ft. Armstrong facility to see first hand what supportive living has to offer.
DEMONSTRATION OF COUNCIL CHAMBERS TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES
A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Murphy to adjourn the meeting CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None. The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
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Cynthia A. Neiggemann, City Clerk
The 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 A. Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Daniel Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White, Joy Murphy, and Charles O. Austin III.
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. Pastor Greg Mayer gave the Invocation. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the Minutes of the meeting of May 1, 2006 as printed CARRIED on a Voice vote.
PRESENTATION
Agenda Item #6
ROCK ISLAND PRESERVATION
SOCIETY AWARDS
Linda Anderson of the Rock Island Historic Preservation Society, along with Mayor Schwiebert, presented the awards. As the awards were announced, photos of the completed work were shown on the screen in Council Chambers. Certificates were presented for preservation work done at 2008 3rd Ave., 1600 20th St., 2801 7th Ave., and 541 23rd St. Awards were given for preservation work completed for the Broadway Brick Sidewalk Restoration Project (Broadway Historic District), the Little Stone House (Rock Island Parks and Recreation District) and the Sala Apartments (Renaissance Rock Island).
Agenda Item #7
Mayor Schwiebert read and presented a Proclamation declaring May 13 – 20 National Women’s Health Week, to Angela Keesey of the Rock Island County Health Department and Ida Robinson of the Martin Luther King Center. Alderman Conroy announced that this date, May 15, 2006, represents the five-year anniversary for his wife as a breast cancer survivor.
ORDINANCES
Agenda Item #8
FOUR-WAY STOP
INTERSECTION/9-1/2 STREET AND 19TH AND 20TH AVENUES
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance establishing four-way stop intersections at 9-1/2 Street and 19th and 20th Avenues. A motion made by Alderman Pauley and seconded by Alderman Brooks to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #9
PROPERTY ACQUISITION AND SALE/STATE
OF ILLINOIS
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance authorizing acquisition of property and sale of property between the City of Rock Island and the State of Illinois. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman White to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Alderman Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #10
PROPERTY CONVEYANCE/ROCK
ISLAND CASINO DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, LLC
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance providing conveyance of property to the Rock Island Casino Development Company, LLC. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman White to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Alderman Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, White, Murphy, and Austin. ABSTAIN: Alderman Rockwell. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #11
A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to accept the following reports and authorize payments as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Alderman Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
a. Statement from the City Attorney in the amount of $5,529.90 for legal services during the month of April.
b. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $3,251.78 to C. H. Langman Son, Inc. for an emergency water main repair at 43rd Street North of 14th Avenue.
c. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $106,429.69 to CDB Utility Contractors for the Fiber Optic Cable, Phase 3A.
d. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $1,985.50 to Symbiont for professional services for the Shadybrook Lift Station.
e. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $6,281.00 to Symbiont for professional services for the Ridgewood Pump Station.
f. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,173.10 to Symbiont for professional services for the new phosphoric acid feed system.
g. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $47,047.45 to Walter D. Laud for the 2006 Brick Street Patch project.
h. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,432.11 to Gardner Carton & Douglas LLP for professional services for the Pretreatment Program.
i. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,019.50 to Gardner Carton & Douglas for professional services for the Pretreatment Program.
j. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $5,827.00 to Missman Stanley & Associates for emergency repair in the parking garage.
k. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $17,088.32 to Rock Island Electric Motor Repair for rebuilding one submersible pump motor.
a. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $11,733.00 to R-Now Refuse and Recycling for emergency repair to refuse packer.
Agenda Item #12
The City Clerk read the claims for the weeks of April 28 through May 11 in the amount of $1,784,305.47. A motion made by Alderman White seconded by Alderman Murphy to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Alderman Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #13
APRIL 24 THROUGH MAY 7
The City Clerk read the Payroll for the weeks of April 24 through May 7 in the amount of $1,078,345.04. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Murphy to allow the payroll CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Alderman Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #14
2007 FREIGHTLINER CAB
& CHASSIS BIDS/TRUCK COUNTRY
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for a 2007 Freightliner cab & chassis recommending Truck Country be awarded the bid in the amount of $45,223.00. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the bid as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #15
2007 HENDERSON MARK II
DUMP BODY BIDS/KOENIG BODY AND EQUIPMENT
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for a 2007 Henderson Mark II dump body recommending Koenig Body and Equipment be awarded the bid in the
amount of $15,965.00. A motion made by Alderman Pauley and seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the bid as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #16
DESIGN
AND PRINTING CHIPPIANNOCK EPITAPHS/MIDWEST GRAPHICS MANAGEMENT
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding bids for design and printing of “150 Years of Epitaphs at Chippiannock Cemetery” recommending the bid be awarded to Midwest Graphics Management in the amount of $3,615.00. Alderman Conroy commented on the large discrepancy among the bids. He was advised the company being awarded the bid is a company the City is familiar with and has done business with in the past.
After discussion, a motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the bid as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #17
COMMERCIAL
DEMOLITIONS PROPOSAL/DONAHUE AND ASSOCIATES
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a proposal from Donahue and Associates for professional services for commercial demolitions at 3000 5th Ave., 311 24th St., and 1014 8th Ave. recommending the proposal be accepted in the amount of $41,966.00. Alderman White stated the amount of money being requested for 50 days worth of work to perform these services could be an employee’s salary for a whole year. Chief Building Inspector Tom Ayers advised the $139.00 per day is greater than an unburdened rate of one inspector; however, the professional services from Donahue and Associates include more than normal work, such as asbestos investigation, drawing specs and plans and other work that would normally be contracted out.
After discussion, a motion made by Alderman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the proposal as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #18
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding change orders to demolition contracts for the Sylvan Slough Natural Area recommending Option 2 change order to the contracts with C.H. Langman & Sons. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the proposal as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #19
IOWA ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding the Water Distribution Facility Asbestos Abatement Project requesting approval of the proposal from Iowa Environmental Services, Inc. in the amount of $3,900.00. A motion made by Alderman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the proposal as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #20
The City Clerk read a report from the Information Technology Services Department regarding the QC-ICC (DOJ) Interoperability Grant Agreement. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Pauley to approve the agreement as recommended and authorize the Mayor to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #21
The City Clerk read a report from the Information Technology Services Department regarding the Intergovernmental Agreements with Rock Island County. Alderman Conroy inquired as to why such a lengthy contract (10-year) is being requested to lock in price and agreement and how the price was determined. He also informed that this would be taking business away from a company in the City that employs approximately 250 people. Information Technology Services Assistant Director Tim Bain advised the agreement of the term was based on one-half of the life expectancy of the cable and the cost was based upon our cost to install.
City Manager Phillips advised the City was approached by the County to share the cost of this infrastructure to lower taxes and save money and it is an opportunity to work together with the County. This agreement was not done to sell services, it was to benefit the citizens in saving taxpayer monies.
Alderman Conroy inquired as to who is responsible to maintain the cable with regard to damage repair. Mr. Bain advised it would be the responsibility of whoever damaged the cable. Mayor Schwiebert advised there is service and maintenance language in the agreement as well as limitation of damages language.
After discussion, a motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the agreement as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. ABSTAIN: Alderman Pauley. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #22
SUNSET MARINA/UPHOLSTERY SHOP LEASE RENEWAL
The City Clerk read a report from Public Works Department regarding the Sunset Marina, Upholstery Shop Lease Renewal requesting approval of the three-year lease with Mr. Chronister. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the lease as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #23
The City Clerk read a report from the General Administration regarding City Council Meeting Schedule requesting the schedule that was adopted on July 25, 2005 be extended beyond the date of August 31, 2006 and the ordinance be adopted. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Murphy to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #24
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding rezoning from R3 District to R4 District at 615 31st Street. Alderman Conroy informed this is considered spot zoning and the reason the City has zoning ordinances. Mayor Schwiebert stated he, too, considers this to be spot zoning and advised concerns have been raised from neighbors.
John Westmoreland, owner of the property, addressed Council regarding his concerns and reasons for requesting the rezoning. He advised that due to the zoning ordinance, if his property were to be damaged or destroyed the building would not be able to be rebuilt as it currently stands, which is a five-plex. With the current zoning in place the building would have to be rebuilt as a one to two family residence. Mr. Westmoreland is concerned for future investment, as it is currently zoned, if it were destroyed or damaged. Mr. Westmoreland reviewed concerns from resident, Diane Carnithan, regarding this request and agreed with her health concern regarding the gravel alley, which is a City-maintained alley. Mr. Westmoreland advised he would welcome the blacktopping of this alley and advised he also has water problems with the pitch of the property.
Community and Economic Development Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen advised if the building was damaged or destroyed it could only be rebuilt as a five-plex, not larger. Council was presented with a report on nonconforming multi-family residential uses in the City of Rock Island and there are 52 other properties such as this one in residentially zoned districts. Mayor Schwiebert advised the reason for zoning restrictions is to provide density control in residential areas. Alderman Austin advised how the Planning Commission voted and viewed this request due to it being an existing part of the neighborhood.
(Note: Item was Deferred April 10 and May 1 - A motion remains on the floor – Motion made by Alderman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Pauley to approve the rezoning as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #25
REZONING FROM R3 TO U1
DISTRICT/1110 – 38TH STREET
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding rezoning from R3 District to U1 District at 1110 38th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the rezoning as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #26
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the Property Tax Rebate Program recommending Council authorize a 10-year graduated property tax rebate program for newly constructed single family homes in the New Old Chicago Neighborhood and Downtown Tax Increment Finance District, allow the homes in those areas already participating in the existing rebate program to participate in the new rebate program and authorize the new rebate program to be available for new homes for which a Certificate of Occupancy is issued for a period of three years beginning May 15, 2006. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the program as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #27
SALE OF PROPERTY/1604 – 6TH STREET
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding sale of property at 1604 6th Street. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the sale as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for a Contract of Deed and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #28
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a commitment from City Council for a Roof Deferred Payment Loan in the amount of $5,257.50 for 719 4th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Austin to commit $5,257.50 as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #29
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a commitment from City Council for a Targeted Rehabilitation Loan in the amount of $5,500.00 for 1841 9th Street. A motion made by Alderman Murphy and seconded by Alderman White to commit $5,500.00 as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #30
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request for Special Use Permit for 612 and 614 46th Street for Master Design Landscape. A motion made by Alderman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to allow for the application of the Special Use Permit as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #31
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request for Special Use Permit for 1106 and 1114 11th Avenue for Quad City Engineering. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Conroy to allow for the application of the Special Use Permit as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #32
NATIONAL TRAILS SYMPOSIUM
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request from Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau for sponsorship in support of the National Trails Symposium in the amount of $1,000.00. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the sponsorship as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #33
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee requesting installation of a stop sign at 19th Street and 12th Avenue. (Note: Item was Deferred May 1 – A motion remains on the floor – Motion made by Alderman Pauley and seconded by Alderman Austin to deny the request as recommended. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Conroy to DEFER this
item again to June 5, 2006 CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #34
RESIDENTIAL PARKING (TYPE B) AT 3156 9TH STREET TO 3168 9TH STREET; 3159 9TH STREET TO 3152 9-1/2 STREET; AND 910 33RD AVENUE
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee requesting residential parking (type B) located at 3156 9th Street to 3168 9th Street; 3159 9th Street to 3152 9-1/2 Street; and 910 33rd Avenue.
Phyllis McDermott, 901 33rd Avenue, addressed the Council on behalf of herself and Megan DeWaters (who was unable to attend the meeting) advising of the serious parking problem due to vehicle parking from the high rise building in the neighborhood. She showed photos of the area and advised there is no place for residents to park and that vehicles associated with the high rise building sit in the street, unmoved, for lengthy periods of time. Alderman Murphy advised she has driven past the area in question several times and had observed no parking available at all. Alderman Pauley inquired as to why the request for 910 33rd Avenue was denied. Public Works Director Bob Hawes advised there were not enough signatures to warrant approving the request.
After discussion, a motion made by Alderman Pauley and seconded by Alderman White to approve the first and second requests and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance and deny the third request as recommended was made and withdrawn after hearing information and concerns from residents. A motion made by Alderman Pauley and seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve all three requests and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #35
HANDICAPPED PARKING/1112 – 37TH STREET
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee requesting handicapped parking at 1112 37th Street. A motion made by Alderman Murphy and seconded by Alderman White to approve the request as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #36
HANDICAPPED PARKING/1124 – 19-1/2 AVENUE
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee requesting handicapped parking at 1124 19-1/2th Avenue. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the request as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #37
STOP SIGN INSTALLATION/16TH STREET AND 12TH
AVENUE
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee requesting installation of stop signs at 16th Street and 12th Avenue. Odell Hickman, 1603 12th Avenue, and Henry Clark, 1206 16th Street, addressed Council regarding this request. They advised there is excessive speeding in the area and there are at least 20 children in the immediate location and they are concerned for the safety of the children.
After discussion, a motion made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the request for a stop sign on 12th Avenue and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #38
STOP SIGN INSTALLATION/6TH STREET AND 6TH
AVENUE
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee requesting installation of stop signs at 6th Street and 6th Avenue. A motion was made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the request. Alderman Brooks requested this item be deferred to June 12. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Brooks to DEFER this item CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #39
CITY ORDINANCE CONTROL PARKING LOT/1643 11TH
STREET
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee requesting City Ordinance Control of a parking lot at 1643 11th Street. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman White to approve the request as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #40
MAYOR PRO TEM/NOMINATIONS
The City Clerk read a memorandum from Mayor Schwiebert regarding the selection of a new Mayor Pro Tem. Alderman Conroy nominated Alderman Austin, which nomination was seconded by Alderman Rockwell. Alderman Austin was elected as Mayor Pro Tem by Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #41
SUNSET MARINA PARKING LOT USE/GOAST GUARD AUXILIARY
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a request from the Coast Guard Auxiliary for permission to use the parking lot area at Sunset Marina from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 18, July 16 and August 20 for their Boat-in Pancake Breakfast. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the request pending receipt
of all necessary permits as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #42
STREET CLOSING/BROADWAY HISTORIC DISTRICT/8TH
AVENUE AND 20TH STREET
The City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding a Street Closing Request from the Broadway Historic District for the blocking of 8th Avenue and 20th Street (to the alley) on May 20 and 21. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the request as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #43
PLAZA EVENT/PARKING LOT C/QUAD CITY ARTS METRO ARTS
PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding a Plaza Event application for June 12 through July 13 and application and fee waiver request from Quad City Arts for their Metro Arts Program and also a request for use of City Lot C at no charge for their Annual Metro Arts Program participants. A motion made by Alderman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the event, approve the waiver of fees and approve the use of Lot C as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #44
STREET CLOSING/SOUND AMPLIFICATION/4TH ST.
BETWEEN 11TH & 12TH AVENUES
The City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding an application for sound amplification and request to close off 4th Street between 11th and 12th Avenue on Saturday, June 3, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. for a block party. A motion made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman Murphy to approve the street closing and sound amplification as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #45
STREET CLOSING/21ST AVENUE BETWEEN 11TH
& 12TH STREETS
The City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding a request to close off 21st Avenue between 11th and 12th Street on Sunday, June 4, from 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. for a graduation party. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the street closing as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #46
EVENT/SOUND
AMPLIFICATION/AIDS PROJECT QUAD CITIES/
STICK EM UP GRAPHICS
The City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding an event and an application for sound amplification for AIDS Project Quad Cities to be held at Stick Em Up Graphics on Sunday, May 21,
from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the event and sound amplification application as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
City Manager John Phillips asked Finance Director Bill Scott and Accountant Tim Banks to update Council on the purchasing card program. Mr. Scott advised the City has developed and tested a purchasing card system that is now ready for citywide use. The program has been tailored to certain types of purchases and assigned to specific individuals. Alderman Pauley inquired as to whether a code of conduct has been put in place for misuse of these cards. Mr. Banks advised that Personnel Director John Thorson has drafted policy and procedures addressing the use and misuse of these cards. The program is designed to streamline purchases and travel arrangements.
City Manager Phillips brought attention to the Martin Luther King Summer Day Camp program advising the center expects over 200 children to sign up for the 2006 program.
Mr. Phillips addressed the request for additional funds for the Rain Garden Program from unused funds from the Stormwater Fund FY07 budget. This request stems from the immense popularity of the program and the allocated funds being already committed. Council approved the request.
Mr. Phillips brought attention to the 2006 Project Status Report for review by Council. He also mentioned the downtown parking meeting scheduled for Thursday, May 18, at 8:00 a.m. or 5:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel.
Mr. Phillips asked Community and Economic Development Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen to give a recap on the lighting of Lock and Damn 15. Mr. Carmen advised the actual mock-up of the damn lighting was not as expected and gave a different appearance from the drawings. He advised RDG will be forwarded comment sheets regarding this mock-up, make revisions and will run additional models in the future. Mr. Carmen advised the boating industry informed they had no problems or distractions with the proposed lighting. He also thanked Modern Woodmen and the CORE of Engineers for their assistance.
Mr. Phillips also advised the City was again successful in securing an additional $200,000 in USEPA Brownfield Grant funds and thanked Special Projects Manager Sally Heffernan for her hard work in this process.
OTHER BUSINESS
Alderman Austin mentioned a letter from a citizen addressed to the Rock Island Fire Department Emergency Response Team thanking them for their quick response to an emergency call.
Alderman White inquired about procedures for special pickups due to receiving a call regarding a scheduled pickup that was not done due to items not being in containers. Public Works Director Bob Hawes explained the procedure regarding special pickup informing that when a special pickup is scheduled, a letter is then sent to the individual confirming the pickup, items to be picked up and also informing that items small enough to fit in containers must be placed in such.
Alderman White also mentioned the Broadway Tour of Homes event scheduled for May 20 and 21.
Mayor Schwiebert asked Public Works Director Bob Hawes to prepare a Sunset Marina 3-year retrospect inventory, with figures from the last two years, in terms of where the City was at comparable times of the season.
Mayor Schwiebert also mentioned a press conference that was held at 9:30 a.m. on May 15 at 4305 81st Avenue announcing the expansion to Steel Warehouse, which will increase the work force from 8 employees to 40 employees and from 1 shift to 2 shifts.
Randy Allison, 1420 98th Avenue, addressed Council about storm water and water backup and also advised he was the first recipient in the Rain Garden project. Mr. Allison informed that he is displeased and frustrated with the City’s handling of the stormwater utility and removal of debris from creeks, viaducts and bridgeways. Mr. Allison requests the City look into this longstanding problem and remedy it.
Mayor Schwiebert inquired as to the specific location of Mr. Allison’s concern. Mr. Allison advised the location of the obstruction is the Rock Island/Milan Parkway directly across from the Library. Alderman Conroy advised the location is basically between the upper and lower Ridgewood Road and goes underneath the Parkway. Mr. Allison advised this is one of seven damming and debris locations along the creek. He advised due to the recent torrential rains and the flooding of Kyte Creek, he has had flooding on his property and his rain garden and other landscaping has been washed out. Mayor Schwiebert asked Assistant City Manager/Public Works Director Bob Hawes to give an overview of what has been done on this problem and what might be done in the future.
Assistant City Manager/Public Works Director Bob Hawes advised the bridges Mr. Allison is referring to are in Milan and one is owned by the Railroad and one is owned by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Mr. Hawes advised the City has written letters to both entities advising them of this problem. He informed these are not plugged; however, they are partially blocked. Mr. Hawes advised the other blockages do not have an impact on the properties and advised that Kyte Creek was overwhelmed with the recent rains we have been experiencing. He advised Mr. Allison’s rain garden was two to three feet above the normal flow of the creek and the creek came out of its banks. Mr. Hawes advised there are approximately 50 miles of ravine that do not have an inspection program in place. He advised the Public Works Department responds to complaints as they arise and knows of areas that catch debris in the culverts and those areas are cleaned after a major storm. He advised the City does not currently have a ravine inspection program in place and may be something to consider for the future.
Alderman Conroy advised the City needs to look at a policy and what already exists and would like to see a policy set in place that the City would clean out the areas that are City owned. Mayor Schwiebert requested a report from the Public Works Department regarding options for programs and costs to deal with these types of problems.
RECESS
A motion made by Alderman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Pauley to recess to Monday, May 22, at 5:00 p.m. CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Pauley, Rockwell, White, Murphy, and Austin. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 9:25 p.m.
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Cynthia A. Neiggemann, City Clerk