The Rock Island City Council met for Study Session at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, May 19, 2003, 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 R. Conroy, John E. Bauersfeld, Jr., Daniel Rockwell and Ann L. Keefe. (Alderman Evelyn “Evie” R. White arrived at approximately 6:00 p.m.) Alderman Frank J. Forlini, Jr. was absent. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips, City Attorney John P. Konecky, Personnel Director/Assistant to the City Manager John Thorson, Utilities Superintendent Dale Howard, Community and Economic Development Department Director Greg Champagne, Planning Administrator Alan Carmen, Alan Fries and Chief of Police Terry Dove.
City Manager John C. Phillips noted that Alderman Forlini’s mother passed away late last week, and a card was distributed for signatures of those present. Mr. Phillips stated that the items for discussion included the new rules for Public Hearings, the Long Term Control Plan, and, if time allowed, the downtown housing.
RULES FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS
City Attorney John P. Konecky and Planning Administrator Alan Carmen reviewed the changes in rules and regulations for Public Hearings. Attorney Konecky stated that, because of the Klaeren Case in Lisle, Illinois, a new ruling has been issued. He stated that this may make it necessary for the Mayor and Council to consider adopting rules and procedures which are different from our present procedure of allowing the proponents to speak, the opponents to speak and then allowing the proponents to respond.
Attorney Konecky and Mr. Carmen then reviewed the “Rules for Public Hearings” which they wrote to present to Council for their input and suggestions. These rules would apply to Special Use Permit, Preservation Commission, Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals hearings. Mr. Carmen stated that anyone would be given the opportunity to speak, but only those who register as “Interested Party” have the right to cross examine the applicant/petitioner and witnesses of the petitioner. Mr. Carmen called attention to the “Statement as Interested Party,” indicating that there were no persons registered as “Interested Parties” for the two public hearings scheduled for the regular meeting. He stated that the City Clerk would receive these statements and they need to be completed no later than three business days prior to the hearing date.
Alderman Keefe stated that she did not agree with the written rule indicating that the Chair decides who the Interested Parties are. She stated that the definition should not change from one meeting to another. City Attorney Konecky responded that the definition differs with the various kinds of hearings. Alderman Rockwell suggested that some guidelines could be written that would apply. Mayor Schwiebert suggested that those who have a personal, property interest or group interest. He also suggested that the form include a section for the Interested Party to identify their witnesses to be called.
Alderman Brooks asked about staff giving their recommendation before Council members have the opportunity to listen to the hearing. Attorney Konecky stated that it was necessary for staff to lay out the specific factors identified that must be present in order to act. Alderman Keefe stated that the staff report should come first. Attorney Konecky stated that the basis of the Klaeren case is that the decision must be arrived at in a reasonable manner.
Following discussion, staff was requested to see what other cities are doing. They will then prepare a policy for Council review and approval.
LONG TERM
CONTROL PLAN
Dale Howard, Utilities Superintendent, and Brandon Koltz, of Triad Engineering, spoke to Council regarding the Long Term Control Plan. Mr. Koltz stated that, in order to meet the requirements of the settlement offer, there would be interim reports for the EPA approval as well as an enforceable construction schedule to be established. He indicated that the Long Term Control Plan would take into consideration system characterization, alternative controls, environmental considerations, stakeholder preferences, affordability, implementation and long term performance. He stated that the system characterization would consist of a complete collection system inspection and documentation by televising, surveying and cleaning, hydraulic modeling and treatment plant documentation.
Mr. Koltz stated that the characterization, modeling and monitoring of the system would be based on the receiving waters – Mississippi River, Rock River – plus existing data and specific monitoring and modeling. Using these entities, they will determine the impacts to evaluate alternatives. Alderman White asked how the City of Rock Island could determine if the objects in the water were from the city or were in the water as the rivers ran through here. Mr. Howard explained the methods used to determine this.
Alderman Bauersfeld asked how this was going to be paid for. City Manager John Phillips responded that the sewer customers would pay for it just as the water customers pay for water usage. He noted that there is some debt that will be retired in the sewer system, which will free up the ability to get bonds for this project. Alderman Bauersfeld asked about other cities and what they are doing. Mr. Koltz stated that they will be doing the same thing, but on their own time. Mr. Howard stated that other cities have already received the information with their last permit. Mr. Koltz added that Rock Island is not alone and there are about 700 other cities in the United States that the USEPA has taken to court on the same type of issue. He noted that Rock Island happens to be the first one in Illinois.
Alderman White stated that it appears as though the consultant is more in charge than City staff. Mr. Koltz stated that he has worked twenty years with projects on schedules like this and is confident that they can complete the work on schedule. Mr. Howard added that Triad Engineering responded to the RFP, and they have done this type of project as well as other things successfully. City Manager John Phillips noted that the burden is still on the City, and if we notice there is a problem, it is up to us to identify it and keep the project going on schedule. Mr. Koltz added that, if there is a problem meeting a deadline, they (Triad) would contact the USEPA and ask for an extension.
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Brooks to adjourn the meeting CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None. The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
_____________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk
The Rock Island City Council met in regular session at 6:45 p.m. on Monday, May 19, 2003, in the Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, David R. Conroy, John E. Bauersfeld, Jr., Daniel Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White and Ann L. Keefe. Alderman Frank J. Forlini, Jr. was absent.
Mayor Schwiebert called the meeting to Order and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderman Bauersfeld gave the Invocation. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to approve the Minutes of the meeting of May 12, 2003, as printed CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #6
Martha Dismer, of the Rock Island Preservation Society, along with Mayor Schwiebert, presented the 2002 Preservation Awards. These awards are presented each year to those who have worked to preserve the original charm and character of a historic Rock Island Home or building and who have furthered the ideals of the Society.
Agenda Item #7
Mayor Schwiebert read a proclamation declaring the week of May 5 through 12 as National Historic Preservation Week. He presented the framed document to Steve Andich.
Agenda Item #8
310 14
STREET/SPECIAL USE PERMIT
Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 7:08 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a request from Ray Yeargle for a Special Use Permit to operate a mobile food cart in the front yard at 310 14th Street. He explained that the process would be different from prior public hearings, and asked Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, if there had been notices sent out to the neighboring properties. Mr. Carmen responded in the affirmative. Mayor Schwiebert then asked if anyone had filed an “Interested Party” statement, and Mr. Carmen responded in the negative.
Ray Yeargle, 310 14th Street, reviewed his request to operate the food cart in front of his house at this address. He stated that he is familiar with the stipulations that have been imposed by staff and is in agreement with them. He noted that he has his certificates from the Department of Public Health to do the food service.
There were no opponents to the Special Use Permit.
Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:12 p.m. A motion made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman White to approve the request with the stipulations stated, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #9
1416 6
AVENUE/BUSINESS
Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 7:13 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a request from Nancy Short for a Special Use Permit to continue to operate a vehicle repair, window art and audio business along with a new gravel parking lot at 1416 6th Avenue. He then asked Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, if there had been notices sent out to the neighboring properties. Mr. Carmen responded in the affirmative. Mayor Schwiebert then asked if anyone had filed an “Interested Party” statement, and Mr. Carmen responded in the negative. Mr. Carmen added that the applicants had submitted a petition with ten signatures in favor of the Special Use Permit. He noted that another petition was received which contained thirty-nine signatures opposed to the Special Use Permit.
Nancy Short, 1416 6th Avenue, the applicant, spoke to Council about her request. She indicated they bought the property last September, and it appears that there was an auto body repair shop there before. She stated that there was adequate room for it. She indicated that a friend of hers does auto body repairs, and this is what they would be doing here. She stated that they would not be doing any installation of car stereos or sound equipment, and planned to be open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday.
Alderman Brooks stated that he does not agree with the stipulations, and wanted them to have no more than two employees and no gravel lot. He stated that they need a carport and should not be parking the vehicles outside. He stated that he has a concern about the crowd of people around there, and also there were problems with the people living in the green apartment building. He noted that he told the Chief of Police about his observations of these problems at this building.
Leon Patterson, 1416 6th Avenue, stated that is the address of the business, and he is staying at this address now. He stated that they try not to block the alley and would be willing to pave the lot or pour concrete. He noted that he has people clean up the alley every day.
Joanne Mowery, 1406 5 ½ Avenue, stated her opposition to the Special Use Permit because of the traffic. She asked about the plans for the disposal of oil, and noted that at times, there were twenty people hanging around there.
Gracie Hernandez, 1407 7th Avenue, stated that there are problems there. She indicated that these people at 1416 6th Avenue converse a lot with the people from the green apartment building and they go back and forth all the time. She stated that the previous owners of the house kept it clean, and now there is trash, high grass and weeds. She stated that the one repair they have done was when they burned trash and caught the house on fire, they fixed the siding from that fire.
Christina Jiminez, 1431 7th Avenue, spoke in opposition to the Special Use Permit. She stated that her family owns the upholstery business next door and there is loud music coming from the auto body repair shop that affects their customers. She stated that there are also dogs running around the neighborhood, and the auto business customers are parking in the spaces for the upholstery business.
Sheila Rind, 1321 7th Avenue, stated that the only repair done on the building was when they had the fire. She stated that there are always a lot of people around there drinking, and at times they have inside furniture like recliners sitting outside. She indicated that they have worked hard to improve the neighborhood, and this business is not helping anything.
Nancy Short stated that she was burning leaves and the fire got too close to the building and ruined the siding. Mr. Patterson stated that they would be doing only light mechanics and no oil changes. He stated that the loud music and drinking is from the apartment house. He noted that they have their own dumpster so the trash is not from their business.
Alderman Brooks asked about abandoned cars. Ms. Short and Mr. Patterson stated that there was one left on their property and they called the Police to have it towed. Alderman Brooks stated that he thinks there is a perception that these people are creating the problems, but the problems seem to be coming from the people living in the green apartment house.
Alderman Conroy asked what they do with the cars they are working on when they close the business each day. Mr. Patterson responded that most of the people wait while the work is done and then they drive the car away. Any cars that are left are driven into the garage for the night. He also spoke about the statement that they are entertaining people there at night, stating that nobody is there after the business closes. He clarified that occasionally, he stays there to do paperwork.
Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:40 p.m. Alderman Keefe asked why staff made the recommendation to deny before the Public Hearing. Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, responded that this type of use in the past in this neighborhood has caused problems in the neighborhood.
Alderman Conroy asked how long the empty lots have been empty, and Mr. Carmen responded that they have been vacant for about five years or more. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he is sympathetic with business, but he is also sensitive to the neighbors. He noted that he would not be supporting the motion to approve because of the effect it is already having on the neighborhood. He suggested that they work with the neighborhood and maybe come back to request a Special Use Permit again in six months.
Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the request with the stipulations stated by Alderman Brooks – no audio work done, only two employees, working hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturdays; concrete or asphalt parking lot for four persons (two employees, two customers); all cars inside after 5:00 p.m. – FAILED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks. NAYS: Aldermen Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe.
Agenda Item #10
The City Clerk read an Ordinance amending Chapter 1, Section 13 of the Code of Ordinances, regarding due process procedure for violation fine increases. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #11
707 13 STREET/HANDICAPPED
PARKING
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance establishing one Handicapped Parking Space in front of 707 13th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #12
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Brandt Construction in the amount of $3,321.78 for the Hickory Court Sewer Relocations Project. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to accept the report and authorize payment as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #13
The City Clerk read the claims for the week of May 9 through 15 in the amount of $622,178.47. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Conroy to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #14
APRIL 28 THROUGH MAY 11
The City Clerk read the payroll for the weeks of April 28 through May 11 in the amount of $973,637.45.
|
GENERAL FUND |
$638,664.41 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #1 DOWNTOWN |
520.91 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #2 S 11 STREET |
177.31 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #3 N 11 STREET |
177.31 |
|
COMMUNITY/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT |
42.85 |
|
KING CENTER |
3,161.09 |
|
FEDERAL COPS GRANT |
4,045.42 |
|
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT |
23,650.32 |
|
LIBRARY |
40,369.48 |
|
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS |
12,242.63 |
|
WATER |
53,971.55 |
|
SEWER |
40,943.27 |
|
COMMUNITY/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT |
5,944.87 |
|
BRIDGE |
26,214.96 |
|
SUNSET MARINA |
8,672.31 |
|
PARK AND RECREATION |
71,507.21 |
|
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE |
32,274.71 |
|
SELF INSURANCE |
1,778.49 |
|
EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE |
942.28 |
|
MLK ACTIVITY FUND |
4,927.35 |
|
DRUG PREVENTION |
3,408.72 |
|
TOTAL |
$973,637.45 |
A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman White to allow the payroll CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #15
The City Clerk read a report from the Finance Department regarding bids for the printing of the annual Budget and the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, recommending the bid of The Printer’s Mark in the amount of $3,833.43. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman White to award the bid as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #16
PARAGON CONSTRUCTORS/PARKING
RAMP
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the 16th Street Third Avenue Parking Structure Restoration, Phase II, recommending the bid of Paragon Constructors in the amount of $339,640.00.
A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman White to award the bid as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #17
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the joint purchase, with the City of Moline, of the 2003 Pavement Marking Contract, recommending the bid of Peterson Parking Lot Striping, Inc. Alderman Rockwell asked how much money was saved with the joint purchase. City Manager John C. Phillips responded that the cost would have been higher, but he was not sure how much higher. He noted that there has been considerable savings by doing joint purchases for other items over the past several years. Alderman Rockwell suggested keeping track of this to see how much money is being saved. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to award the bid as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #18
PHYSIO-CONTROL/MAINTENANCE
The City Clerk read a report from the Fire Department regarding a four-year service agreement with Physio-Control for maintenance of the Defibrillators/monitors/pacemakers at the cost of $3,391.30 annually. Alderman White asked if they realized when these items were purchased that the company would also be needed for the on-going maintenance. Fire Chief Al Sinksen responded that this equipment is necessary and is very important that they are properly maintained. Alderman Rockwell asked if other cities use the same brand of equipment, and Chief Sinksen responded that he did not know. Alderman Conroy stated that the equipment needs to be certified each year. Following discussion, A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the agreement, authorize payment and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #19
TRIAD
ENGINEERING/LONG TERM CONTROL PLAN
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a contract with Triad Engineering in the amount of $1,946,000 for the preparation of the Combined Sewer Overflow Long Term Control Plan. City Manager John Phillips stated that this agreement is necessary to enter into an agreement with USEPA. He stated that we need to move forward quickly to respond to the consent decree. City Attorney John P. Konecky stated that there is a final meeting on Wednesday. Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to approve the agreement and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #20
ILL BUREAU OF
TOURISM GRANT/FISCAL MANAGER
The City Clerk read a report form the Community and Economic Development Department requesting authorization for the City of Rock Island to be the Fiscal Agent for the administration of the Illinois Bureau of Tourism Grant. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to authorize the City to act as the fiscal agent for the Illinois Bureau of Tourism Grant CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Agenda Item #21
SPECIAL USE
PERMIT/4021 11 STREET
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request from Bridgette Korthals and Misty Page for permission to apply for a Special Use Permit to operate a flower and bridal accessory shop at 4021 11th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to allow Ms. Korthals and Ms. Page to apply for the Special Use Permit CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #22
SIDEWALK/2615
37 STREET
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a request to remove a sidewalk at 2615 37th Street, recommending approval with the stipulations that the sidewalk removal is done by a contractor who is bonded to work within the City Right of Way. Alderman White stated that she is usually not in favor of removing any sidewalks, but this is an exception. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the request pending stipulations listed CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #23
STOP SIGNS/17
AND 18 STREET WITH SECOND AVENUE
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department requesting approval for the installation of one additional stop sign at the intersection of Second Avenue with 17th Street and Second Avenue with 18th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to approve the installation of stop signs at these intersections, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
ITEMS
FROM THE CITY MANAGER’S MEMORANDUM
GENERAL FUND
PROJECTION
City Manager John C. Phillips reviewed the General Fund Projections. Alderman Bauersfeld noted that the expenditures for full time salaries are projected to be over three million dollars in a few years. He suggested that be reviewed more closely to see where some savings can be made in that area. Mr. Phillips responded that over 70% of the General Fund Budget is Personnel, which includes salaries but also includes Pensions and Health Insurance costs which are expected to increase. Mayor Schwiebert stated that we need to hold the line on expenses and look at increasing revenues. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he also noted the transfer of Capital money to other uses, and called attention to the Police Officers retirement and pension costs. Mr. Phillips stated that there would be further discussion on this in the coming months.
ELECTRONIC
MAIL/COUNCIL MEMBERS
Mr. Phillips called attention to the information regarding the electronic mail for City Council members, and suggested that the forms be completed and turned in.
JOINT
RIVERFRONT PROJECT
Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, reviewed the Joint Riverfront Project. He stated that the proposals have gone out, and the Committee will be reviewing the responses. He stated that the selection will be made to the Davenport Council in July, and work is expected to begin in August with a completion date in January 2004. Alderman White asked why the Davenport Council would have to approve it and not Rock Island. Mr. Carmen stated that it was more of a formality, just as the City will be acting as the fiscal agent for the Illinois Bureau of Tourism Grant. He noted that the Rock Island City Council would also be approving the agreement.
DOWNTOWN
HOUSING
Mr. Carmen then discussed the Proposed Downtown Tax Increment Finance District Housing Program. He stated that there is more demand for downtown housing. Alderman Conroy stated that the parking situation should be discussed with the people who want to live here. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that the Growth Corporation is aware of this, and the current building has contained parking. He said we need to work with what we have and make it better.
COPS GRANT
Police Chief Terry Dove reviewed the information on the COPS Grant. He stated that there are conditions for most of these grants, and the COPS in Schools grant needs new money, new officers and cannot be used for DARE Officers. He stated that there is a Homeland Security Overtime Grant that requires a 25% match from the city for one year, and can be used for Homeland Security training as well as for officer’s overtime while others are in this training. Following his review, Council agreed that Chief Dove should pursue this grant.
MAYOR PRO-TEM
City Manager John Phillips called attention to the information about the Mayor Pro Tem information. Mayor Schwiebert suggested that this could be on the Agenda for June 2. Council stated that they were ready to do this at this meeting. Alderman Bauersfeld nominated Alderman Conroy to be Mayor Pro-tem, and Alderman White seconded the nomination. There being no further nominations, Alderman Conroy was elected as Mayor Pro-tem for the coming year by unanimous vote.
LETTER FROM DAN
CARMODY
Mr. Phillips called attention to a letter from Dan Carmody regarding the resignation of Dee Dee Doeckel in July.
OTHER
BUSINESS
ALDERMAN
BAUERSFELD
Alderman Bauersfeld commented on the Pool – Whitewater Junction. He stated that it was “super” and people should try out all the slides and other amenities there.
Alderman Bauersfeld also mentioned the problems with the traffic. He stated that the stop lights are at the end of the bridges, and suggested that they direct traffic with an officer rather than a light. He stated that the traffic be directed to turn right or go to a straight lane instead of the light. He further suggested that the stop light in Davenport be rearranged. He stated that there is a need to be creative to help the traffic flow better both ways. Mayor Schwiebert stated that this is not up to the Bridge Commission, but asked that Public Works look at this situation. City Manager John Phillips stated that Captain Tom Payne has already been in discussion with the Davenport Police Department and both Public Works Departments and they are working together to come up with a solution.
ALDERMAN WHITE
Alderman White also stated that the first pool party went very well, and Alderman Conroy noted that the water is heated. Bill Nelson, Park and Recreation Director, stated that the Grand Opening is at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 24. He noted that they will have the winners of the coloring contest there and also have radio broadcasts, give-a-ways and other fun things to do until 6:00 p.m. Mayor Schwiebert commented on the park-like setting for this water park and the fact that Longview Park again has a “long view” of the downtown and across the river from the top of the hill. Alderman White noted that most water slides she has seen are up in the air but these are close to the ground even though they are long. She stated that they are built into the hillside.
WARD MEETING
Alderman Rockwell stated that he is having his first Ward Meeting on Tuesday, June 3 at 6:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church.
RECESS
A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Conroy to recess to Monday, June 2 at 5:00 p.m. CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 8:55 p.m.
____________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk