The Rock Island City Council met for Study Session at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 2, 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, Evelyn "Evie" R. White, Ann L. Keefe and Frank J. Forlini, Jr. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips, Public Works Director Bob Hawes, Personnel Director/Assistant to the City Manager John Thorson, Community and Economic Development Department Director Greg Champagne, Planning Administrator Alan Carmen, Finance Director Bill Scott, Special Projects Manager Sally Heffernan and Public Works Assistant Tim Ridder. Also present was Dan Carmody of the Development Association of Rock Island, Kathy Wine of River Action, and Jim Patchet of the Conservation Design Forum.
City Manager John C. Phillips distributed a memo regarding additional appointments for Council consideration. He noted that, if there were no objections, these would be placed on the Agenda June 9 for Council approval.
Mr. Phillips announced that a collection was being taken up for Jesse Lisle, an active volunteer with the Douglas Park neighborhood and an active citizen. She had a fire at her house recently, and Mr. Phillips stated that anyone wishing to contribute could see Alan Carmen.
Jim Patchet, of Conservation Design Forum was present to review the site plan for the Sylvan Slough properties. He reviewed the Supplemental Environmental Project, and distributed the site plan design for the project. He showed graphics of the various design areas, the grasses and flowers that will be used, and the permeable parking areas. He reviewed the parking lot design, which will be made with a porous material called Egra Stone Paver. In response to a question about the maintenance of the plantings, he stated that the area would be burned annually. He discussed how this is done, noting that it is not a difficult thing to have done.
Alderman Bauersfeld asked about the removal of the boat ramp that was discussed at an earlier meeting. Greg Champagne, Community and Economic Development Department Director, stated that this is not an official boat ramp or boat launch, but is an area that is used by a few people. He noted that the plans did not include putting in a boat ramp at this location, and stated that there are concerns about liability with the current use of this area for this purpose. Alderman Conroy stated that putting in an official boat launch or boat ramp would require more parking and more money as well as additional liability and maintenance on the part of the city.
Alderman Conroy asked about the trees and the safety/security issues. Mr. Patchet responded that no areas would be hidden from view at ground level. The plantings will be colorful all year, though the colors will vary with the seasons. Mayor Schwiebert commented that this project would provide beauty, accessibility to the river as well as a lot of opportunity for education.
The total amount of the project will be about $260,000, with money from River Action as well as various grants to be used. The city will contribute $60,500 to build a bio-swail, permeable walking trails, an aquatic garden and plant trees in the natural area. This project qualifies as a Supplemental Environmental Project, as long as there are certain environmental features included in the design. This design incorporates these needed features.
Dan Carmody, of the Development Association of Rock Island, reviewed the proposed plan for the use of the Capri Theatre property at 220 19th Street. He noted that he building has been vacant for several years, and they are looking at the possibility of securing the property for use as a community theatre. He stated that they would like to purchase the property and allow a two-year period to assess the long-term management and operating cost issues, and also to determine the feasibility of raising an estimated $1.5 to $1.75 million for renovation. He noted that, if the theatre project does not move forward, the property would be sold in the third year.
Mr. Carmody stated that the Development Association of Rock Island would borrow the funds necessary to purchase the property and agree to invest up to $1,500 per year in holding costs. The City would be requested to contribute $10,000 annually from the Downtown TIF funds, the Small Newspaper Group would contribute $8,000 annually and the Genesius Guild Foundation would agree to share the remaining balance of $5,000 annually. This support would be contributed for a maximum of three years.
Mr. Champagne noted that staff recommends the participation in support of this project because the community theatre concept compliments the arts and entertainment theme of the District, and the Genesius Guild has a record of successful productions. He noted that, if the building renovations are not done and the building continues to deteriorate, it will become a blight on the downtown area.
Following discussion, consensus of Council was that staff should prepare a development agreement for placement on the agenda for Council approval. Alderman Bauersfeld requested a report on the status of the TIF commitments and revenues.
RIPD Chief Terry Dove discussed some animal control concerns. Mr. Phillips pointed out that the number of animal bites is less than it was four years ago. Chief Dove reviewed the reports, and stated that Rock Island has not had any serious bites recently. He indicated that most of the calls are about juveniles walking pit bulls. He discussed the “leash laws” and indicated that they are proposing to change the ordinance to state that dogs in public need to be on leashes. Currently, the ordinance states that they should be on a leash or “under the control” of the owner. He also stated that they are proposing to add tools to address the “kids walking pit bulls” issue.
Alderman Rockwell stated that the ordinance notes that a dog is deemed “vicious” after three occasions. He suggested that the wording on that be looked at, because a dog can be dangerous after only one attack.
Alderman Brooks suggested that something be included concerning the weight of the kids versus the dogs they are walking, as well as the number of dogs being walked together by one person. He suggested that fines be increased after the first offense of the owners as opposed to the offense of the dog. Chief Dove stated that they believe “it’s not the breed but the deed” and the ordinance would not be changed to reflect a specific breed of dog. He noted that dog breeds that are deemed vicious or dangerous change from year to year. Alderman Conroy suggested that if a person has three or four dogs, they should have insurance also. Chief Dove stated that another proposal is to make it mandatory that the dog tag, which is received when licensed, be visible.
Following discussion, it was decided to move forward with the proposed ordinance changes.
A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to adjourn the meeting CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m.
________________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk
The Rock Island City Council met in regular session at 6:45 p.m. on Monday, June 2, 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, Ann L. Keefe and Frank J. Forlini, Jr.
Mayor Schwiebert called the meeting to Order and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderman Rockwell gave the Invocation. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the Minutes of May 19, 2003, as printed CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #6
3431 14
AVENUE/SPECIAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT
Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 7:10 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a request from Mark Sersland for an amendment to an existing Special Use Permit, to use an accessory building as a rental storage building.
Mark Sersland, owner of the property at 1340 34th Street (aka 3431 14 Avenue) reviewed his request. He stated that he agreed with the stipulations presented by staff, which include limitation of the hours from 8:00 a.m. to 800 p.m. seven days a week, a minimum of three off-street parking spaces, and the parking surface be improved to asphalt or concrete by November 30, 2003, no additional signs to be provided, and the property shall meet all applicable code requirements.
Alderman Bauersfeld asked why he wanted this seven days a week, and Mr. Sersland stated that Monday through Saturday would be alright with him. Alderman Keefe related concerns of Dick Fislar, who lives across the street and was unable to attend the meeting. She indicated that Mr. Fislar noted that the photography studio hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and they sometimes stay open until 9, and are open on Sundays also. Mr. Fislar expressed concern in his letter that this will occur with the storage units as well.
Mr. Sersland stated that he can only provide the regulations on paper to his tenants and if they do not obey them, there is nothing he can do. Mayor Schwiebert noted that Mr. Sersland should be able to tell the tenants that if they violate these regulations, they will be evicted, because the he, the owner, could lose the Special Use Permit. Alderman Keefe then suggested that the hours be changed to 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and that they have on-site parking. Mr. Sersland stated that he was unable to do the parking lot because he had to put in a new furnace, and he is trying to keep the place running.
Alderman Brooks stated that, if he had storage someplace, he would want to have access to it on Sundays. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that going to a storage unit to put something in or take something out is generally a quiet routine, so the neighborhood should not be overly concerned.
Alderman White noted that the building does not have water, and Mr. Sersland stated that he is going to shut off the electricity to the building as well. Alderman White asked about the landscaping and Mr. Sersland responded that he plans to take care of that.
There were no other persons present to speak in favor of or against the Special Use Permit amendment.
Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:10 p.m. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to approve the request with the stipulations as follows: that the hours be 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday; that there be a minimum of three parking spaces with the parking area be done in concrete or asphalt by November 30; no additional signs or lights; all rental storage be enclosed in the building; and that they adopt the findings of staff, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Conroy, Rockwell, White and Keefe. NAYS: Aldermen Brooks, Bauersfeld and Forlini.
PROCLAMATION
Agenda Item #7
NATIONAL
HOME OWNERSHIP MONTH/JUNE
Mayor Schwiebert read a proclamation declaring the month of June as National Home Ownership Month, and presented a framed document to Brian Hollenbeck, Executive Director of Renaissance Rock Island.
ORDINANCES
Agenda Item #8
SALE OF
PROPERTY/ISOTECH
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance providing for the sale of real estate to Isotech in the amount of twenty thousand dollars. 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, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #9
STOP
INTERSECTIONS/SECOND AVENUE, 17 AND 18 STREETS
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance establishing STOP Intersections at Second Avenue with 17th and 18th Streets. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman White to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #10
310 14
STREET/SPECIAL USE PERMIT
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit for a mobile food cart at 310 14th Street. A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Conroy to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #11
22
AVENUE, 30-32 STREETS/SPECIAL ASSESSMENT
The City Clerk read a Special Assessment Ordinance for the reconstruction of 22nd Avenue between 30th and 32nd Streets. A motion made by Alderman Forlini 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, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
RESOLUTION
Agenda Item #12
MOTOR
FUEL TAX FUNDS/17 STREET RESURFACING
The City Clerk read a Resolution appropriating $1,105,000.00 in Motor Fuel Tax Funds for the 17th Street Resurfacing. A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to adopt the Resolution CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
CLAIMS
Agenda Item #13a
RUDD,
SCOVIL, MARSH/LEGAL SERVICES
The City Clerk read a report from the Personnel Department recommending payment to Rudd, Scovil and Marsh in the amount of $2,173.50 for services rendered.
Agenda Item #13b
WALKER
PARKING CONSULTANTS/PARKING STRUCTURE
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Walker Parking Consultants in the amount of $4,973.10 for the 16th Street and 3rd Avenue Parking Structure Restoration.
Agenda Item #13c
TRIAD
ENGINEERING/TURKEY HOLLOW ROAD WATERMAIN EXTENSIONS
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Triad Engineering in the amount of $8,455.52 for the Turkey Hollow Road Watermain Extension.
Agenda Item #13d
TRIAD
ENGINEERING/
WASTEWATER
TREATMENT PLANT COMPLIANCE PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Triad Engineering in the amount of $9,659.60 for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Compliance Program.
Agenda Item #13e
FRYE
BUILDERS/GREAT RIVER PLAZA RENOVATIONS
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Frye Builders in the amount of $103,791.11 for the Great River Plaza Renovations.
Agenda Item #13f
KJWW
ENGINEERING/1ST AVENUE DECORATIVE STREET LIGHTS
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to KJWW Engineering in the amount of $3,133.30 for the 1st Avenue Decorative Street Lights Project.
Agenda Item #13g
CENTENNIAL
CONTRACTORS/2003 UTILITY PATCHING PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Centennial Contractors in the amount of $47,375.75 for the 2003 Utility Patching Program.
Agenda Item #13h
PHOENIX
CORPORATION/GREAT RIVER PLAZA RENOVATIONS
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Phoenix Corporation in the amount of $215,160.11 for the Great River Plaza Renovations.
Agenda Item #13i
GARDNER,
CARTON AND DOUGLAS/
WASTEWATER
TREATMENT PLANT COMPLIANCE PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Gardner, Carton and Douglas in the amount of $23,473.30 for services relating to the ongoing litigation support for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Compliance Program.
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to accept the reports and authorize payments as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #14
MAY 16
THROUGH 29
The City Clerk read the claims for the weeks of May 16 through 29 in the amount of $1,455,405.26. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Forlini to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
PAYROLL
Agenda Item #15
MAY 12
THROUGH 25
The City Clerk read the payroll for the weeks of May 12 through 25 in the amount of $958,845.33.
|
GENERAL FUND |
$637,136.82 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #1 DOWNTOWN |
610.05 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #2 SOUTH 11 STREET |
212.66 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #3 NORTH 11 STREET |
212.62 |
|
COMMUNITY ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT |
21.43 |
|
KING CENTER |
3,161.00 |
|
FEDERAL COPS GRANT |
4,044.74 |
|
COMMUNITY DEV. BLOCK GRANT |
22,690.73 |
|
LIBRARY |
40,002.52 |
|
ELDERLY SERVICES CONTRIBUTION |
389.98 |
|
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS |
11,446.88 |
|
WATER |
51,686.35 |
|
SEWER |
40,062.59 |
|
COMMUNITY/ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT |
6,019.44 |
|
BRIDGE |
863.07 |
|
SUNSET MARINA |
7,897.84 |
|
PARK AND RECREATION |
85,075.14 |
|
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE |
23,367.67 |
|
SELF INSURANCE |
1,778.48 |
|
EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE |
891.60 |
|
CAFETERIA PLAN |
12,937.56 |
|
MLK ACTIVITY FUND |
4,927.44 |
|
DRUG PREVENTION |
3,408.72 |
|
TOTAL |
$958,845.33 |
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Conroy to allow the payroll CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
CONTRACTS/AGREEMENTS
Agenda Item #15
GENERAL
CONSTRUCTORS/FLOW BASIN
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the Franciscan and Saukie Excess Flow Basin improvements, recommending the bid of General Constructors in the amount of $125,000.00. A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Rockwell 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, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #17
WALTER D.
LAUD, INC/2003 PCC STREET PATCHING PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the 2003 PCC Street Patching Program, recommending the bid of Walter D. Laud, Inc. in the amount of $179,985.80. A motion made by Alderman Forlini 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, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #18
W. F.
SCOTT DECORATING/17 STREET RETAINING WALL
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the 17th Street Retaining Wall Painting, recommending the bid of W. F. Scott Decorating in the amount of $19,900.12. Alderman Conroy asked why there was only one bid on both Agenda Items No. 18 and 19. Bob Hawes, Public Works Department Director, responded that on the Sealcoat Program last year, there was only one bidder. As far as this project, he said he did not know. Alderman Rockwell asked if they had a methodology to go back and Alderman Bauersfeld asked if they call the other businesses to find out why they did not submit a bid. Mr. Hawes stated that they can do this, but they cannot decide to change the process without the approval of Council. Alderman Rockwell noted that the difference between the estimate and the contractor is only $5,000, but there are other bids that reveal a higher estimate from the contractor versus that of the engineer. Mr. Hawes stated that the cost to rebid the project is minimal, but then you take the risk of the bid being even higher than this one once it is made public. Alderman Rockwell suggested that staff have a methodology in the future regarding what to do when only one bid is received.
Following discussion, a motion made
by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Brooks 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, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #19
SETTLE, INC/SEALCOAT PROGRAM
The
City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for
the Sealcoat Program, recommending the bid of Settle, Inc. in the amount of
$28,806.00. A motion made by
Alderman Forlini 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, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #20
RAILROAD/AGREEMENTS
The
City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a stipulated
agreement between the Illinois Commerce Commission, the Iowa Interstate
Railroad, the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway Company, the City of
Moline and the City of Rock Island for improvements at several railroad
crossings in Moline and one at 46th Street in Rock Island. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded
by Alderman Forlini to approve the agreement and authorize the City Manager to
execute the contract document CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell,
White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #21
LEAD BASED PAINT TREATMENT
PROGRAM/APPLICATION
The
City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department
regarding an application for the Lead-based Paint Treatment Program
Application. Alderman White asked about
the relocation plans, and Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, responded to
their questions. City Manager John
Phillips noted that this will be discussed further with ideas and plans to be
incorporated into the plan if we get the grant. Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and
seconded by Alderman Brooks to authorize participation in the HUD Lead-based
paint hazard control program grant CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld,
Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini.
NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #22
DOWNTOWN TIF/DOWNTOWN HOUSING PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the
Community and Economic Development Department regarding a proposed Downtown Tax
Increment Finance District Housing Program with an allocation of $160,000 in
Downtown TIF funds. Alderman Conroy
asked if there was a demand for this, and Mr. Carmen stated that they have
already had inquiries. He stated that
they expect an ongoing demand. He noted
that there would be a regular annual amount for the TIF budget for this
program. Alderman Conroy asked about
the parking, and asked if it would be advantageous to offer higher incentives
to those who have parking available.
Alderman White stated that they need to address the parking in the
downtown for those who have housing or they cannot continue to build. Alderman Brooks suggested that another
parking ramp is needed. Alderman
Forlini suggested assigning parking spaces to the developers.
Following
discussion, a motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Forlini to
approve the Downtown Upper Story Housing Program as presented and approval an
allocation of $160,000 in Downtown TIF Funds as recommended CARRIED on a Roll
Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks,
Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #23
ROOF STANDARD LOAN/1237 15 STREET
The
City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department
regarding a request for a commitment from the City Council for a Roof Standard
payment Loan in the amount of $5,570.00 at 1237 15th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded
by Alderman Rockwell to commit the $5,570.00 in City Funds, including
contingency as recommended, CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld,
Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini.
NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #24
PROJECT FACELIFT PROGRAM/1537 12 STREET
The
City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department
regarding a request for a commitment from the City Council for $2,867.50 for
the Project Facelift Program at 1537 12th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded
by Alderman Rockwell to commit the $2,867.50 as recommended, CARRIED on a Roll
Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks,
Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
BOARDS/COMMISSIONS
Agenda Item #25
PRESERVATION, IL Q C CIVIC CENTER
AUTHORITY, CENTENNIAL BRIDGE
The
City Clerk read a memorandum from Mayor Schwiebert recommending the following
appointments:
Preservation Commission:
Nick Taiber – New appointment
Illinois Q C Civic Center Authority:
Ted Johnson – Reappointment
Centennial Bridge Commission:
Denise Spindel – Reappointment
A
motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to approve
the appointments CARRIED on a Voice vote.
LICENSES/PERMITS
Agenda Item #26
COAST GUARD AUXILIARY/BREAKFAST
The
City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a request
from the Coast Guard Auxiliary to use the canopy area at Sunset Marina from
6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 15, July 20 and August 17 for their
Boat-In Breakfast, recommending approval of the June and July dates only
because of the start of Phase I construction on August 4. A motion made by Alderman Forlini and
seconded by Alderman White to approve the use of the canopy area at the Marina
for June 15 and July 20 as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote. Alderman Forlini noted that this is always
a very good breakfast and is one of few fundraisers by the Coast Guard
Auxiliary.
Agenda Item #27
RIDE THE RIVER/JUNE 15
The
City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding an application and
Resolution for the Ride the River event to be held June 15 beginning at 6:00
a.m. A motion made by Alderman White
and seconded by Alderman Keefe to adopt the Resolution and approve the
application pending receipt of a Certificate of Insurance CARRIED on a Roll
Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks,
Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #28
SENIOR OLYMPICS RUN/JUNE 21
The
City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding an application for the
Senior Olympics Run to be held Saturday, June 21 beginning at 6:00 a.m. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and
seconded by Alderman White to approve the application CARRIED on a Voice vote.
ITEMS FROM THE CITY MANAGER’ S MEMORANDUM
City Manager John C. Phillips reviewed the
Status Report pertaining to the City Council Action Agenda, and then reviewed
the Issues Agenda, which relates to issues that are coming up in the future
months. One of the issues he noted is
the Goal Setting, which begins the budget process in September. He noted that the Goal Setting process and
location is to be discussed with Council.
RULES FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS
Alan
Carmen discussed these rules, and Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he had asked
the City Attorney to discuss this with his local counterparts. He noted that he spoke to the City Attorney
and also to Mayor Schwiebert prior to the meeting and noted that written rules
are not always bad. City Manager John
Phillips noted that they would be placed on an upcoming agenda for Council
approval, and made public. Mayor
Schwiebert made a suggestion for a revision regarding cross-examination, and
this will be incorporated into the document that is presented to the City
Council. “Non-registered” persons will
be added, and it was also noted that the public body can amend the rules if
they don’t suit their specific needs.
CENTENNIAL BRIDGE TRAFFIC CONTROL
Public
Works Director Bob Hawes reviewed the report concerning the traffic on the
bridge. He noted that the widening of Gaines in Davenport is proceeding, and
the two merges on this side of the bridge will be closed this week. He noted that the traffic counts have not
been done yet. Alderman Bauersfeld
suggested that this be monitored because the gravel has been down ten days
already. Mr. Hawes stated that the
contractors are working hard to complete the project.
HUD LETTER REGARDING ACTION PLAN AND
UNTIMELINESS
Alan
Carmen responded to questions about the HUD letter. He noted that the problems occurred with the staff shortage and
they are being addressed at this time since Lisa Garrison has joined the
staff. He stated that she has completed
the consolidated plan and is entering the data now. Mr. Carmen also stated that one of the issues was the lack of training,
and now three employees have received training in Chicago. He stated that they realize the implication
if the block grant funds are lost and are trying their best to accommodate the
requirements of HUD.
LIQUOR LICENSE
Alderman
Brooks indicated that he would be opposed to the expansion of hours for liquor
sales at the station on the corner of 15th Street and 7th
Avenue. He stated that he drove by
there a couple times and there were a lot of people gathered there. He indicated that this could turn into an
explosive situation because people were parked and blocking traffic. He
expressed concern for the families living around that area. He indicated that he agrees with the
proposed revisions of the current liquor ordinance giving the Liquor Commissioner
the power to say “no.”
Mayor
Schwiebert reviewed his memo, noting that the current ordinance gives the
Liquor Commissioner almost no discretion.
He is proposing a revision to the liquor ordinance to add “for good
cause”. Alderman Conroy expressed
concern about the words “good cause,” noting that there should be some factual
basis. City Attorney John Konecky
stated that he would let Attorney Ted Kutsunis provide information regarding
the language “good cause.” Alderman
Keefe stated that the Liquor Commissioner should be able to use discretion with
regard to extended hours as well as with the applicants. Alderman Bauersfeld
stated that precluding that something is going to happen is wrong. He further suggested that the Liquor
Commission should be the ones to determine this. Mayor Schwiebert noted that the Commission does not get involved
in applications but rather in hearings of violations of the ordinance. He added that he would be in favor of
discussing the situation with the Alderman of that Ward before making a
decision. Alderman Brooks stated that
Chief Dove is aware of the situation at 15th Street and 7th
Avenue and is monitoring it.
WARD MEETING
Alderman
Rockwell announced that he would be holding an Informational Ward Meeting at
6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 3 at the First Baptist Church at 3020 30th
Street.
PARKS/WHITEWATER JUNCTION
Alderman
White stated that she and her husband are enjoying the ice cream “dots” from
the concession stands and she congratulated Bill Nelson on obtaining these
concessions. She added that concessions could be purchased from outside the
pool area at their window. She noted that the District looks good, and asked
Ava Ketter to discuss the Library program.
Ms.
Ketter reported on the new Summer Reading Program called Lights – Camera –
Read. She reviewed the program, which
is open to children through Grade 8.
PATCHING
Alderman
White asked if the wider patches were better than the narrow patches that have
been done in the past on concrete streets.
Bob Hawes, Public Works Director, stated that the joint sealing is what
she was referring to, and the seal now is two inches wide. He stated that some
of the people don’t like the appearance of the new seal, but this is what was
recommended by the state.
EXPRESSWAY
Alderman
Bauersfeld stated that First Avenue is looking good, and asked when the
“parkway” signs will replace the “Centennial Expressway” signs. Greg Champagne stated that this is a state
route, and they are working with the state regarding the design of the sign.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Alderman
Keefe stated that she reported on the historic preservation activities.
COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER
Mayor
Schwiebert noted that he attended the Grand Opening of the Community Health
Center, and commended Alderman Brooks and County Board member Johnnie Ellis for
their efforts to get this project in Rock Island. He also expressed thanks to
Representative Lane Evans for his efforts in generating $11.5 million for the
project. He stated that it is a nice
facility.
LEGISLATIVE LEADERS
Ron
Wicks, of Jumer’s Casino, commended our legislators, namely Senator Jacobs and
Representative Pat Verschoore for what they did for Jumer’s and the City in
Springfield the past week. He also
commended Mayor Schwiebert for his contact with the Governor’s Office.
CURB PAINTING
Jacob
Kallman, 2009 4th Street, Moline, spoke to Council about painting
house numbers on curbs. He noted that
he spoke with the City Clerk and she had requested that he write about his
business. He asked the Council what he
should not write.
Alderman
Forlini stated that he and the City Clerk had talked to Mr. Kallman prior to
the meeting and explained what he needed to do. Mr. Kallman indicated that he would do this.
RECESS
A
motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman White to recess to
Monday, June 9 at 5:00 p.m. CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld,
Rockwell, White, Keefe and Forlini.
NAYS: None.
The
meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
_____________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk