The Rock Island City Council met in Study Session at 5:00 p.m. in the Personnel Conference Room of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Alderman Terry M.A. Brooks I, David Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Joy Murphy, and Charles O. Austin III. Also present were City Manager John Phillips, Metro Arts Youth Program Lead Artist Sara Robb, Public Works Director Bob Hawes, White Hydropower Plant owners Mitch and Melba White, President, Renaissance Rock Island Mike Thoms, Rock Island Economic Growth Executive Director Brian Hollenback and Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen. Alderwoman Margie Mejia-Caraballo was absent.
METRO ARTS
PRESENTATION
City Manager John Phillips opened the discussion and inquired upon Sara Robb, lead Artist for the Metro Arts Youth Program mural design project to explain various details of the project. Ms. Robb stated that three of the student artists would address the Council and comment on different aspects of the mural design.
Stephanie, a Metro Arts Youth Program student stated that the theme for the mural was River History. They looked through books and photos of the river to gain insight into design ideas for the mural. Stephanie stated that they wanted the mural to represent something that would have meaning and purpose. Stephanie commented that the students decided to have the entire river flow through the mural project to support the theme of River History. Stephanie concluded that they decided to use bold colors, simple designs, and a modern theme for the mural entitled Flow Together.
Dillon, another Metro Arts Youth student artist explained what the objects in the mural represented. A picture of the mural was displayed. The four (4) lines of the river represent the Quad Cities. Dillon also mentioned that the mural portrayed the two (2) state birds (Cardinal and Finch) and the two (2) state flowers (Blue Violet and Wild Rose) on each side of the mural. Dillon commented that on the mural were musical notes that represented the rich musical history of the Quad Cities. Also, a silhouette of faint lines marked the mural, suggestive of the bridge that connects the Quad Cities. A colorful Catfish in the mural represents life in the river. Dillon concluded that there was a human element in the mural, pointing to a family fishing.
Nancy, another student with the Metro Arts program read a poem which will be displayed on the catfish at the site of the mural.
Ms. Robb thanked Mr. Collins, Director of the Metro Arts Program, and Redevelopment and Planning Administrator Alan Carmen for his hard work on installing the panels for the project. Ms. Robb concluded that on Thursday, July 12, 2007 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. there would be a showcase at the mural site and at Quad City Arts.
Mayor Schwiebert commended the young individuals who participated in the program. The Mayor stated that the concept of arts is to encourage arts in the Quad Cities, and to encourage creative people to stay in the Quad Cities.
HYDROPOWER PLANT PRESENTATION
Public Works Director Bob Hawes distributed a handout, and presented a slide presentation to Council regarding the Hydropower Plant acquisition and expansion. Mr. Hawes discussed the background history of the Hydropower Plant, stating that the plant was constructed by the Sears family in 1912, and in 1967 the Plant was donated to the State of Illinois. In 1980, the plant was acquired by White Hydropower. Mr. Hawes then showed various pictures of the plant from 1912 to 1980.
After discussing the background of the plant, Mr. Hawes explained the scope of the project; Mr. Hawes stated that the lease from the State of Illinois for the real estate and water rights will be assigned to the City. All existing equipment will be sold to the City by White Hydropower Company, and all existing operating licenses and approvals will be either assigned to the City or reissued to the City. Mr. Hawes commented that the City will develop agreements with MidAmerican Energy Company to transmit electricity from the plant to five designated City facilities.
Mr. Hawes stated that the City and White Hydropower Company will begin joint operation of the powerhouse once the sales agreement has been executed. Mr. Hawes acknowledged that before the transaction closing takes place, the City and State will have to agree upon the terms of the lease assignment and all environmental permits and clearances have to be assured. Mr. Hawes commented that on Thursday, July 12, 2007, the City will meet with the regulators. Mr. White acknowledged that he has already spoken with the regulators, and feels confident that everything should go smoothly. Also, Mr. Hawes stated that the City and MidAmerican Energy Company need to agree upon the terms for transmitting the hydroelectricity to the designated City facilities, the City and Mr.White need to agree on the terms for engineering services for the design and oversight of the plant expansion and preparation of the environmental permit applications and clearances, and the City has to be authorized to finance the plant expansion with Clean Renewable Energy Bonds.
Mr. Hawes acknowledged that after the transaction closing, the City will begin sole operation of the plant. Also, almost 95% of the revenues will be earned by selling electricity to the five (5) designated facilities, and the remaining 5% will be earned by selling excess electricity to MidAmerican Energy Company.
Mr. Hawes commented on the financing plan for the Hydropower Plant acquisition, stating that the total expense amount would be $2,135,000.00, with the sources being General Obligation Bonds and Clean Renewable Energy Bonds. Mr. Hawes mentioned that all the bonds would be repaid from revenue earned through the sales of electricity.
Mr. Hawes then stated that the final sales agreement and engineering service agreement will be ready for Council action on Monday, July 23, 2007. In concluding, Mr. Hawes commented that the plant will provide about 83% of the electricity needed by the designated facilities, and the remainder will continue to be purchased from MidAmerican Energy Company. Also, the expanded plant will sell power to City facilities at the same rate as MidAmerican Energy Company. However, the cost of hydroelectricity from the City plant will rise much slower than the cost of electricity from MidAmerican Energy Company. Mr. Hawes stated that by 2017, the estimated savings in electricity costs will be over $100,000.00 per year.
MCKESSON BUILDING REDEVELOPMENT
Rock Island Economic Growth Executive Director Brian Hollenback addressed the Council to explain the concept for the redevelopment of the McKesson building. Mr. Hollenback began the discussion by stating that Rock Island Economic Growth is requesting $400,000.00 to develop 22 residential owner-occupied units with square footage’s ranging from 900 to 1500 square feet. The average price would be approximately $170,000.00. This development would be consistent with Murphy Loft, Bowlby and the Clipper condominiums. Mr. Hollenback mentioned that 80% of the 22 units would have an income restriction at 120% of the area’s average income. Mr. Hollenback stated that for a Household of four (4), this would be roughly an adjusted gross income of $72,000.00 (taxable income), and for a single household would be $50,000.00.
Mr. Hollenback acknowledged that the concept is to build out the commercial and the second floor of ten (10) units then move forward with the development of the additional twelve (12) units on the third floor. Various amenities would include a walking roof garden (green), a geo-thermal heating/cooling system, swim in place roof top pool, 25 building characteristics, and 27 covered parking spaces in the basement.
Mayor Schwiebert expressed concern with the selling of the condominiums at a time when there is a softening in the real estate market. Mr. Hollenback responded that they are marketing towards specific housing types (25 to 35 year olds, and 55 and older), and being consistent with the draw of more urban style living. Mike Thoms, President of Renaissance Rock Island stated that the City is certainly making a major investment across the street with the Rock Island Armory and the park. This project is also in concert with that corridor.
Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen stated that owners of the new condominiums would qualify for a ten (10) year graduated rebate of City and school property taxes. If all the condominiums are sold over the ten (10) year period, the City would still see a $250,000.00 increase in property taxes for the TIF fund.
Mr. Hollenback concluded that homeowners who work for certain Rock Island businesses also could qualify for down payment and closing-cost assistance from Rock Island Economic Growth’s Live and Work in Rock Island program.
Mayor Schwiebert also inquired as to how the City would come up with the additional $400,000.00. City Manager John Phillips responded that possibly it would be determined that the money would be taken out of this fiscal year’s budget if there is the capacity to do so. If not, the money would possibly be budgeted for next fiscal year.
City Manager Phillips stated that the development agreement for additional City assistance for the McKesson building redevelopment is to be considered at the next Council meeting on Monday, July 23, 2007.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
A motion was made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Pauley to recess to Executive Session on matters of Personnel. The motion carried on a roll call vote.
Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was recessed at 6:15 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 6:33 p.m. A motion made by Alderwoman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Austin to adjourn the meeting carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was adjourned at 6:34 p. m.
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Aleisha L. Patchin, 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 Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Joy Murphy and Charles O. Austin III. City Manager John Phillips was also present. Alderwoman Margie Mejia-Caraballo was absent.
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. Mayor Schwiebert gave the Invocation.
Agenda Item #5
Minutes of the Meeting of June 18, 2007.
A motion was made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of June 18, 2007 as written. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #6
Proclamation
declaring the year 2007 to 2008 as The Year of Coexistence in the Quad Cities.
Mayor Schwiebert
read the Proclamation declaring the year 2007 to 2008 as The Year of
Coexistence in the Quad Cities. Mr. Steve Lynch representative of the Quad
Cities Jewish Federation stepped forward and stated that Coexistence is the art
of living together. Mr. Lynch explained that the Coexistence art exhibit
consists of 45 billboard size pieces of art executed by various artists
throughout the world, and put together by a museum in Jerusalem. Mr. Lynch
commented that there is also a contest where various local artists will have
the privilege of being elected to have a piece of art that will travel with
this exhibit. Mr. Lynch offered that this exhibit has traveled the world, and
it is a great honor to have it in the Quad Cities. Mr. Lynch then thanked the Mayor
and the City of Rock Island for their support.
Agenda Item #7
CLAIMS
It was moved by Alderman Austin seconded by Alderman Conroy, to accept the following reports and authorize payments as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
a. Report from the Personnel Department regarding payment in the amount of $8,266.05 to Konecky, Koenig, Kutsunis and Weng for legal services rendered for June 2007.
b.
Report
from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $72,000.00
to Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for annual NPDES fees. (166)
c.
Report
from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $5,000.00
to Evie and Charlie White for the building of a Rain Garden through the Rain
Gardens for Rock Island Program. (167)
d.
Report
from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,604.00
to Chad and Melissa Bohonek for the building of three Rain Gardens through the
Rain Gardens for Rock Island Program. (168)
e.
Report
from the Public Works Department regarding final payment in the amount of
$170,617.00 to the Treasurer, State of Illinois for the Centennial Bridge.
(169)
f.
Report
from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $99,823.95
to Walter D. Laud for 25th Avenue Paving of 5th to 7th
Streets. (171)
g.
Report
from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $14,689.00
to Kelly Construction for the 2007 Mudjacking Program. (172)
h. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $6,445.32 to KONE Inc. for the maintenance agreement on the Parking Ramp elevators. (173)
i. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #2 and final in the amount of $89,431.01 to Centennial Contractors Inc. for the 2007 PCC Street Patching project. (176)
j. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 in the amount of $314,793.60 to C.H. Langman for 7th Avenue Resurfacing of Mill Street to 11th Street. (177)
k. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 and final in the amount of $161,982.48 to C.H. Langman for the 2007 Catch Basin and Manhole Program. (178)
l. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $16,940.00 to Peterson Parking Lot Striping, Inc. for the 2007 Joint Pavement Marking Program. (179)
m. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $16,200.00 to Valley Construction for Asphalt Street Repair of 4200 to 4210 30th Street. (180)
n. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $2,516.14 to General Asphalt Construction Co. for material purchase for the Utility Patching Program. (181)
o. Report from the Information Technology Services Department regarding payment in the amount of $6,107.98 to CDW Government Inc. for Software Maintenance.
Agenda Item #8
Claims for the weeks of June 15 through July 5 in the amount of
$1,735,902.56.
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Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Austin seconded to allow the claims. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #9
Payroll for the weeks of June 4 through June 17 in the
amount of $1,149,423.30.
Payroll for the weeks of June 18 through July 1 in the
amount of $1,143,929.91.
It was moved by Alderman Brooks, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to allow the payroll. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #10
Report from the
Police Department regarding the purchase of nineteen (19) Pentax PocketJet 3 in
car printer kits, and nineteen (19) Pentax glove box mounts from CDS Office
Technologies in the combined amount of $9,652.00.
Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderman Conroy seconded approve the purchase as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #11
Report from the
Public Works Department regarding bids for the Gateway Improvements of 11th
Street and 46th Avenue, 31st Avenue and 15th
to 24th Streets, recommending the bid be awarded to General
Constructors Inc. of the Quad Cities in the amount of $55,267.00.
It was moved by Alderman
Pauley, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to award the bid as recommended, and
authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents. The motion carried by the following Aye and No
vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley,
Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No,
none.
Agenda Item #12
Report from the
Police Department regarding an Agreement with Rock Island County for the
utilization of the online pet registration database.
It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the Agreement as recommended, and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract document. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #13
Report from the
General Administration regarding a Second Amendment to the Development
Agreement with the Rock Island Boatworks.
Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Conroy seconded to approve the Second Amendment to the Development Agreement with the Rock Island Boatworks as recommended, and authorize the Mayor to execute the contract documents. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #14
Report from the
Community and Economic Development Department regarding a commitment in the
amount of $1,067.00 for a Targeted Rehabilitation Loan at 2127 9th
Street.
It was moved by Alderman Tollenaer, seconded by Alderman
Conroy to commit $1,067.00 for a Targeted Rehabilitation Loan at 2127 9th
Street as recommended. The motion carried by
the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman
Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman
Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #15
Report from the
Community and Economic Development Department regarding a commitment in the
amount of $2,735.75 for a Targeted Rehabilitation Loan at 2016 9 ½ Street.
Alderman Conroy moved and Alderwoman Murphy seconded
to commit $2,735.75 for a Targeted
Rehabilitation Loan at 2016 9 ½ Street as
recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those
voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman
Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #16
Report from the
Community and Economic Development Department regarding a commitment in the
amount of $4,235.00 for a Roof Deferred Payment Loan at 1211 16th
Street.
It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman
Pauley to commit $4,235.00 for a Roof Deferred Payment Loan at 1211 16th
Street as recommended. The motion carried by
the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman
Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman
Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #17
Report from the
Community and Economic Development Department regarding a commitment in the
amount of $1,176.50 for a Roof Standard Payment Loan at 3311 15th
Street Court.
Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Conroy seconded
to commit $1,176.50 for a Roof Standard
Payment Loan at 3311 15th Street Court as
recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those
voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman
Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #18
Report from the
Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request for the installation of stop
signs at 20th Street and 13th Avenue.
It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to deny the request as recommended. The
motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being
Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer,
Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #19
Report from the
Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request to install a handicapped
parking space at 1529 10th Avenue.
Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Tollenaer
seconded to approve the request as recommended, and refer to the City Attorney
for an Ordinance. The motion carried by
the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman
Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman
Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #20
Report from the
Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request to install two handicapped
parking spaces located at the intersection of 3rd Avenue and 18th
Street.
It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the
request as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance. The motion carried by the following Aye and No
vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley,
Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No,
none.
Agenda
Item #21
Report from the
Martin Luther King Center regarding parade/activity/street closing requests,
and a sound amplification request for their 22nd Annual King Center
Family Fun Day Celebration scheduled for Saturday, August 4, 2007, requesting
the food vendor and sound amplification fees be waived.
Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Brooks seconded
to approve the requests and waive the fees as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote;
those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley,
Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No,
none.
Agenda
Item #22
Report from the
City Clerk regarding a request for a sound amplification permit from the Quad
City Botanical Center for their Flamingo Fling Fundraiser to be held on Friday,
August 3, 2007 from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by
Alderwoman Murphy to approve the request as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No
vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley,
Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No,
none.
Agenda
Item #23
Report from the
City Clerk regarding a Plaza Activity Permit request for Saturday, September 8,
2007 from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. for the Mighty Fortress Community Church
event, Praise in the District.
Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Tollenaer
seconded to approve the event as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye
being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer,
Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #24
Report from the
City Clerk regarding a request for a street closing at 21st Avenue between 24th
Street and 25th Street on Saturday, July 14, 2007 from 3:00 p.m. to
10:00 p.m. for a block party.
It was moved by Alderman Pauley, seconded by
Alderman Conroy to approve the request as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No
vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley,
Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No,
none.
Agenda
Item #25
Report from the
City Clerk regarding a request for a street closing at 21 ½ Avenue and
Hillcrest Court between 21½ Avenue and 29th Street and 28th Street
on Saturday, September 15, 2007 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for a block party.
It was moved by Alderman Tollenaer, seconded by
Alderman Conroy to approve the request as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No
vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley,
Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No,
none.
Agenda
Item #26
Report from the
City Clerk regarding a request for a street closing at 22nd Street
between 34th Street and 35th Avenue; along with a sound
amplification permit for a block party to be held on Saturday, August 25, 2007
from 2:00 p.m. to 12:00 a. m.
Alderman Austin moved and Alderwoman Murphy seconded
to approve the request as recommended. The
motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being
Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer,
Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.
Agenda
Item #27
Items from the City Manager’s
Memorandum Packet.
City Manager John Phillips brought to the Council’s attention a report regarding the establishment of the Green Team. Mr. Phillips stated that there has been many activities established in the past year that reflect the City’s efforts to encourage sustainable design and energy conservation in the City. Funds were budgeted for energy efficient windows and energy efficient air-conditioning, a plan developed for the McKesson Building renovation using LEEDS principles, exploring the feasibility of purchasing the Hydropower plant on 11th Street, and the implementation of a recycling program at the City’s facilities. Mr. Phillips acknowledged that to continue in these efforts, he would be appointing a Green Team in which will be comprised of City employees from each City department who have interest in this topic.
Mr. Phillips made reference to the impervious area unit review for stormwater. This was a review of all non-residential properties in the City to accurately assess what the stormwater utility charges should be.
Mr. Phillips pointed out the positive responses from the Quad Cities Contributors Council regarding the Martin Luther King Center’s fundraising efforts. Mr. Phillips acknowledged that this is a very important step before seeking private donations for any Quad City cause.
City Manager Phillips made reference to the Columbia Park TIF District, stating that there will be a Public Hearing on Monday, July 23, 2007 on establishing the TIF with scheduled action by the Council for Monday, August 13, 2007 to set up the new TIF District at Columbia Park.
Mr. Phillips inquired upon Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen to report on the recent acquisition of Old Lincoln School. Mr. Carmen stated that there has been a complete turnaround of Old Lincoln School since the City has gained controlled of the property. Mr. Carmen commended the Public Works Department on the cleanup of the property. Mr. Carmen acknowledged that the City will be looking into the cost of repairing the roof, the steps on the deck, as well as securing the windows to protect from rain entering into the building. Mr. Carmen commented that the neighborhood is pleased with how things are turning out. The next big step, Mr. Carmen stated, is for the City to solicit proposals that will result in positive reuse of the property. Mr. Carmen mentioned that the imminent domain suit that was filed in January of 2005-2006 has been released, and has come to an end based on the City’s control of the property. Mr. Carmen also pointed out that the City will be working with Oak Helm Partners (who have gained control of the Christian Science Church) to seek opportunities for joint marketing and support for both projects.
City Manager Phillips inquired upon Police Chief John Wright to explain various details regarding the Junior Police Academy. Chief Wright stated that this is an opportunity for a number of the City’s Officers to interact with approximately 50 children during the summer months. Chief Wright acknowledged that the Junior Police Academy is patterned after the Citizens Academy, which is for adults, and held in the fall months. The children are exposed to a number of different topics related to Police work. The Academy gives children ideas of what a Police Officer’s job entails. The children who participate in the Academy receive a t-shirt and backpack filled with information. (Brochures, coloring books etc...) Chief Wright noted that the best thing about the Academy is participation.
City Manager John Phillips made reference to
the results of the Voters Survey that is done annually at Sunset Marina, and
stated that the responses were very positive and encouraging from the
individuals who are using the facilities.
Mayor Schwiebert brought
to the Council’s attention a late request from Martinis on the Rock to hold
their first year anniversary celebration on Saturday, July 14, 2007 from 2:00
p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mayor Schwiebert contended that
normally a request is put on the Agenda for Council action. However, the
Council can not formally act on a request that is not on the Agenda. The Mayor
noted that the request was directed towards two individuals that were not in
the office during the week of July 2, 2007. The Mayor reiterated that this
request could not be formally acted upon. Although, if there were any questions
that Council had, they could be addressed. If there was a disposition to allow
this to proceed, and no strong objections, it could be authorized for this one
instance only.
The Mayor also noted that
Martinis had already made arrangements with the radio station for advertising,
and for the Quad City Steamwheeler Deck Mates to participate at this event.
Mayor Schwiebert then put the request before Council
for their input, comments and instruction. The Mayor inquired upon Council if
they felt comfortable with the request. The Council responded that they were
comfortable. Mayor Schwiebert stated
that in the Spirit of the Council, Martinis on the Rock could move forward with
their event, subject to any complaints by neighbors and the music would be
terminated. The Mayor also noted that in the future, if Martinis request to
hold any other events, the request must be made according to the 15 day
requirement prior to the event being held so that the request can be put on the
Agenda for Council action.
Alderwoman Murphy noted
that the Citizen of the Year Nominations have been extended to Wednesday, July
11, 2007, and stated that the winner of the 2007 Citizen of the Year will be
the Grand Marshal in the Labor Day Parade to be held on Monday, September 3,
2007.
Agenda Item #28
Other Business
Timothy Dooling of 832 14 ½ Street stepped forward and voiced his concerns regarding a private civil matter involving himself and another Rock Island citizen.
Mrs. Evie White of 4004 17th Street stepped forward to commend the Council and the City of Rock Island for their beautification efforts in the City. Mrs. White mentioned that the Downtown area looks so beautiful and clean. Mrs. White also noted how quickly the City cleaned up Old Lincoln School.
Agenda Item #29
Executive Session on
Personnel
The Executive Session was held
prior to the meeting.
Agenda Item #30
Recess
A motion was made by Alderman Tollenaer and seconded by Alderman Conroy to recess to Monday, July 23, 2007 at 5:00 pm. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was recessed at 7:31 p.m.
____________________________________
Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk
