The Rock Island City Council met for Study Session at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, August 9, 2004, 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., Dan Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White, Ann Keefe and Charles “Chuck” O. Austin. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips, Planning Administrator Alan Carmen, Community and Economic Development Department Director Greg Champagne and City Engineer Jim Johnson.
City Manager John C. Phillips reminded Council
members of the meeting with the Moline City Council at the Quad City Botanical
Center August 17 at 5:00 p.m. He spoke
briefly about the memo regarding the Special Use Permit for R & K, and
Alderman Bauersfeld reminded Council that the Permit allows them one year to
meet the stipulations. Mr. Phillips
noted that Greg Moroni, Executive Director of RICAB, had an article in the
paper about a fund-raising project consisting of putting statues of
painted/decorated catfish around the community, similar to the Frog program
that was held in East Moline a couple years ago. He stated that Mr. Moroni might be asking Council permission to
put these on public right of way. The
City Clerk indicated that he might be at the meeting, since he had called just
prior to this session about a letter he wanted to discuss with Council.
RIVERVISION PLAN
Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator and staff representative on the RiverVision Committee, reviewed the final report received from Hargreaves Associates. He noted that this was the first major project that was being done jointly by the cities of Rock Island and Davenport. He indicated the major goals of the project were to: a) access the common riverfront; b) spur development; c) reconnect both cities; d) public process; e) urban design rooted in economics; and f) phasing. He reviewed each of the goals and indicated that the next phase will be to present the plan to Council for action August 23. He stated that the Council could conceivably adopt the plan knowing that final decisions have not been made on specific options. One concern discussed by Council was the fate of the Armory building. The RiverVision Plan included plans both with the Armory building in place and without it. Council also indicated that the City should retain the footprint currently used by the Casino if at all possible. They issued the possibility of housing in the Sylvan Slough area, and the park and promenade that could be linked to the Armory location.
Mayor Schwiebert stated that they need to create a center of energy, and expressed concerns about removing the parking currently owned by Modern Woodman. He noted that the proposed parking would remove the access to the river view from the housing and offices located across First Avenue. He presented his own sketch of a proposed plan, which would include accessible parking for Modern Woodman with a roof-type garden, green space and artists’ sculptures on display. His sketch also left the Armory and the levee in place.
Following discussion, the consensus was to move forward with an ongoing oversight body with representatives from both cities. This group would not have any legal power and no funding approval power. Council discussed using Bi-State, and Mr. Phillips indicated that they may be able to assist with some of the work. Mayor Schwiebert noted that Bi-State includes five counties, and this project is between two cities.
Alderman Bauersfeld expressed his disappointment with the eastern portion of the river including the Botanical Center. He noted that there did not seem to be much for that portion of the area in the plan except for parking lots. Alderman Conroy stated that the access to the Arsenal Bridge from Rock Island should be improved.
Mr. Phillips stated that there are details to be worked out:
1. Move ahead with the Armory – to solicit interest;
2. Housing
on the east end – indicating that Dan Carmody had indicated a lot of interest
in riverfront housing;
3. Staff
will look into ownership issues – the properties, utilities, etc. to see what
would be available;
4. Different
approaches – hire someone to put together a conceptual plan to include the cost
of various alternatives.
Other
suggestions were to look at going along with the report in general but to take
a closer look at specific areas; to identify specific high visibility in the
center of the area, high impact and a project that can be successfully
completed as part of the first phase; to not hold up the project waiting for
action with the Armory decision.
Alderman Keefe noted that she has a problem taking on this without
examining the priorities of where we can use our limited funding. Alderman Bauersfeld commented that TIF
funding could be used for this project.
Following further discussion, it was noted that the plan would be placed
on the agenda for Council action August 23.
Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, reviewed the Andalusia Corridor Plan. He noted that they met with Milan as part of the planning process. He indicated that there is a mix of uses along Andalusia Road – residential, industrial, storage yards and others. He stated that the land uses noted in the plan are the same as in the Southwest Plan. He stated that the opportunities for Milan go beyond ours because of the sections of Andalusia Road in Milan. He noted that IDOT was involved in the plan, and they assisted with the funding study and plan. Following discussion, Mr. Carmen noted that this plan will also be brought to the Council for action August 23.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to adjourn the meeting CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. 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, August 9, 2004 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., Dan Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White, Ann Keefe and Charles “Chuck” O. Austin.
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 and seconded by Alderman to approve the Minutes of the meeting of July 26 as printed CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #6
2004 CITIZEN OF THE
YEAR/WINNERS
Alderman White, Chairperson of the Citizen of the Year Committee, announced the winners of the Citizen of the Year 2004 in the individual categories:
Business: Bike and Hike/Steve DePron
Professional: Gary Miner
Education: Vic Boblett
Organization: Broadway Presbyterian Church/ABC Group
Individual: Fred Houlton
City Employee: Bob Towler
Youth: Eddie Williams
Honorary: Xochi Herrera Pannell
She indicated that the overall Citizen of the Year would be announced at the Council Meeting August 23, following a 6:15 reception to honor all of the winners.
Agenda Item #7
The Rock Island Beautification Commission presented the awards for the “Tell On Your Neighbors” to twenty-seven residents who were nominated by their neighbors for showing pride in their home and neighborhood by keeping remarkably neat and well-maintained yards. Beautification Commission Member Linda Wilson announced each one, as Mayor Schwiebert distributed the certificates and congratulated each of the winners.
Agenda Item #8
NO PARKING/17 STREET
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance establishing a NO PARKING Zone along the west side of 17th Street between 31st Avenue and the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center at 4303 24th Street.
A motion made by Alderman Keefe 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 Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #9
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance amending a Special Use Permit for 3915 9th Street, allowing for a cooler addition on the south side of the structure, and an enclosed sanitation room addition on the east side of the structure. A motion made by Alderman Conroy 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 Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #10a
CITY ATTORNEY/LEGAL SERVICES
The City Clerk read a statement from the City Attorney in the amount of $5,929.98 for legal services during the month of July.
Agenda Item #10b
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to J. F. Brennan Co. in the amount of $132,644.86 for the 500 Dock flotation installation project.
Agenda Item #10c
ABONMARCHE CONSULTANT/DREDGING
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Abonmarche Consultant of Indiana in the amount of $10,313.25 for dredging construction management services.
Agenda Item #10d
ABONMARCHE CONSULTANTS/CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AT
SUNSET MARINA
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Abonmarche Consultants of Indiana in the amount of $15,590.42 for construction management services at Sunset Marina.
Agenda Item #10e
MES GLOBAL FIRE EQUIPMENT/BREATHING APPARATUS
The City Clerk read a report from the Fire Department recommending payment to MES-Global Fire Equipment in the amount of $180,737.00 for 38 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus and related equipment.
Agenda Item #10f
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to General Constructors in the amount of $167,841.25 for the 2004 Street Patching Program Project.
Agenda Item #10g
PEETERS SOD COMPANY/2004 SOD
AND TREE PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Peeters Sod Company in the amount of $14, 506.05 for the 2004 Sod and Tree Program.
Agenda Item #10h
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Brandt Construction in the amount of $48,681.45 for the 17th Street Resurfacing, 25th to 31st Avenues.
Agenda Item #10i
CENTENNIAL CONTRACTOR/2004
UTILITY PATCHING PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Centennial Contractor in the amount of $60,127.50 for the 2004 Utility Patching Program.
A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Conroy to accept the reports and authorize payments as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #11
The City Clerk read the claims for the week of July 23 through August 5 in the amount of $1,632,214.07. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
PAYROLL
Agenda Item #12
JULY 19 THROUGH AUGUST 1
The City Clerk read the payroll for the weeks of July 19 through August 1 in the amount of $989,049.80.
|
GENERAL FUND |
$622,816.74 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #1 DOWNTOWN |
471.18 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #2 S 11 STREET |
192.18 |
|
TIF DISTRICT #3 N 11 STREET |
192.21 |
|
FEDERAL COPS GRANT |
3,343.95 |
|
COMMUNITY DEV. BLOCK GRANT |
2,542.65 |
|
LIBRARY |
24,265.96 |
|
ELDERLY SERVICES GRANT |
42,184.88 |
|
WATER |
60,053.29 |
|
SEWER |
33,142.48 |
|
COMMUNITY/ECONOMIC DEVELOP. |
12,285.74 |
|
SUNSET MARINA |
8,486.90 |
|
PARK AND RECREATION |
115,860.87 |
|
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE |
23,267.22 |
|
ENGINEERING |
28,453.47 |
|
SELF INSURANCE |
1,773.07 |
|
EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE |
845.30 |
|
MLK ACTIVITY FUND |
4,725.87 |
|
DRUG PREVENTION |
4,145.84 |
|
TOTAL |
$989,049.80 |
A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman White to allow the payroll CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #13
The City Clerk read a report from the Police Department regarding quotations for the purchase of one hundred and twenty portable radio holsters, recommending the purchase from Ray O’Herron Company in the amount of $3,163.50. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to authorize the purchase and payment as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #14
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the 2004 Asphalt Street Milling Patching Program, recommending the bid of Valley Construction in the amount of $104,645.00. Alderman Bauersfeld requested a map identifying the location of each street that is being patched under this program. A motion made by Alderman Keefe 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 Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #15
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the 20th Street Overlook Enhancements, recommending the bid of Phoenix Corporation of the Quad Cities in the amount of $137,575.00, and also recommending that Council authorize the use of an additional $59,859.00 in Downtown TIF funds to help finance the project. A motion was made by Alderman Bauersfeld (“for discussion”) and seconded by Alderman Conroy to award the bid to Phoenix Corporation, authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents, and authorize the use of the additional TIF funds as recommended.
Alderman Bauersfeld asked if this was something that would blend in with the RiverVision project, or if it should wait until a later time. City Manager John Phillips noted that it is indicated on the RiverVision Plan. Planning Administrator Alan Carmen stated that the RiverVision Plan identified this location, but did not identify a specific use/plan, noting that Hargreaves is aware of this project, and there is nothing inconsistent with the overall plan. He added that the footprint of this area is not suitable for any housing or other development. Alderman Bauersfeld noted that there was a plaque there dedicated to Ray Botch, for City Manager, and asked if this would remain. Mr. Carmen responded that the plaque would be integrated into the project plan.
Sally Heffernan, Special Projects Manager, described the plans, stating that they will be replacing the individual brick pavers with poured concrete. There will be a pre-fab shelter with benches that will remain throughout the year for anyone who wants to sit there, including Eagle watchers in the winter. She stated that the railing will match that of the Centennial Bridge entrance, adding that they considered all other projects downtown as well. She stated that they hope to have this completed this Fall, and are planning on rapid completion.
Following discussion, the motion CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #16
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a grant agreement with the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation for the LED Traffic Signal Lighting Upgrade Project. A motion was made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the grant agreement and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents as recommended. City Manager John Phillips reviewed the report, and noted that the conversion was good timing. He stated that the time used to convert the lights could be used as a match for the grant funds. Alderman Bauersfeld asked about the impact on the budget, and Mr. Phillips stated that we would use the $80,000 that has been allocated for this year, and then more would be allocated in next year’s budget. He noted that the grant money would be received after the completion of the job. He noted that it will result in reduced utility costs, as well as a longer life for the bulbs which would mean less maintenance.
Following discussion, the motion CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #17
NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM/RESOLUTION
The City Clerk read a Resolution regarding the adoption of the National Incident Management System. RIPD Chief Terry Dove reviewed the purpose of this Resolution. He noted that this is a mandate for Homeland Security. He stated that his provides continuity, with all law enforcement departments using the same system for assistance. He stated that failure to adopt this Resolution would make a city ineligible for Federal funding in case of a major incident. Alderman Bauersfeld discussed a reaction to the law enforcement presence during the Grand Excursion, noting that he appreciated the availability, but not the visibility. He referred to a letter that appeared in the Rock Island Argus shortly after the event regarding this as well as the conduct of one of the officers. Chief Dove responded that he had not seen the letter, and was not aware of any incidents like that, adding that he would look into it. Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Austin to adopt the resolution as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #18
IAFF/ARBITRATION AWARD, LABOR AGREEMENT
The City Clerk read a report from the Personnel Department regarding the Fire Arbitration Award and the Labor Agreement with the IAFF. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that the public needs to understand that the city is trying to spend money wisely, but the Firefighters chose to go to arbitration. He stated that he arbitrator chose to give them an increase of 3.5% each year for the next three years, and the state has increased pension costs for the next three years as well.
Alderman Bauersfeld reviewed the increases in health costs as well as the pension costs, which will cost the city 1.5 million dollars for the firefighters. He stated that we couldn’t do anything about the increases since the arbitrator made the decision, and added that there will be similar processes for the Police. He added that the city has already settled with other unions. He stated that he public needs to know what is being charged, and in the spring of 2006, the process will start all over again. He suggested that the public should talk to their legislators, to their aldermen and members of the union about this.
Following discussion, a motion was made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Conroy to accept the arbitrator’s award and approve the labor agreement as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #19
547 23 AVENUE/SALE OF PROPERTY
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the sale of property at 547 23rd Avenue to Calvin Lancour for single-family owner occupancy. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the sale as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #20
806 19 STREET/SALE OF PROPERTY
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the sale of property at 806 19th Street to Steve Rudolph for single-family owner occupancy. A motion made by Alderman White (“for discussion”) and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the sale as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance. Alderman White asked if staff has received a recommendation from him. Mr. Carmen responded that they have not heard from the developers. He added that staff has sent them some information and they need to resolve the design details. He indicated that the ordinance will be held until this is accomplished. Following discussion, the motion CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #21
RENTAL PROPERTY LICENSING/APPROVAL
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding Rental Property Licensing, recommending that the program be approved and referred to the City Attorney for an Ordinance. A motion made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the program and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None. PASS: Alderman Bauersfeld.
Agenda Item #22
SPECIAL USE PERMIT/1015 11 AVENUE
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request from Shawn Haynes for permission to apply for a Special Use Permit to operate a candy/snack shop in the basement of 1015 11th Avenue. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to allow Ms. Haynes to apply for the Special Use Permit CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #23
1404 11 STREET/TARGETED REHABILITATION LOAN
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 Targeted Rehabilitation Loan in the amount of $1,403.00 at 1404 11th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to commit $1,403.00 for the Targeted Rehabilitation Loan as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #24
ETHICAL STANDARDS POLICY/REVISIONS
The City Clerk read a report from General Administration regarding revisions to the Ethical Standards Policy to reflect the new Ethics Ordinance, which was adopted in May of 2004.
Mayor Schwiebert noted that the definition of employee was not included, and asked if this included elected officials and members of Boards and Commissions. Mr. Phillips noted that the policy was an Employee Policy, and was being updated to conform to the ordinance recently adopted. City Attorney John P. Konecky added that the definition is in the ordinance, adding that the elements covered by State Law will be governed by those terms. Mr. Phillips explained that the Ethics Policy was set up for employees, while the Ordinance also covers elected officials. Mayor Schwiebert then asked about Section II c, relating to the exception for awards. Attorney Konecky explained that the distinction is not made in State Statutes. Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the revisions as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #25
ART PIECE/ROCK ISLAND GRAND PRIX
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding a request from the Rock Island Grand Prix for permission to place a 3 to 4 foot tall limestone art piece in front of the Rock Island Argus building at 4th Avenue and 18th Street, recommending approval per stipulations of the Rock Island Design Team. (NOTE: This item was deferred July 26 – motion remains on the floor…A motion was made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the placement of the rock with the stipulations of the Rock Island Design Team.) Tim Ridder, Public Works Assistant, reviewed the information about the art piece, noting that it is a limestone boulder five foot by three foot with a plaque on top of it. Following discussion, the motion CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #26
SPEED LIMIT SIGNS/SCHOOL 23 AVENUE
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from Richard Loy, Superintendent of Schools, for the installation of school speed limit signs on 23rd Avenue near Rock Island High School, recommending approval of the request. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the request and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #27
ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE/VOTING DELEGATE, ALTERNATE
The City Clerk read a letter from the Illinois Municipal League regarding the designation of the Voting Delegate and Alternate Delegate for the Annual IML Conference September 16 through 19 in Chicago, Illinois. Alderman Brooks nominated Alderman Bauersfeld to be Voting Delegate, which nomination was seconded by Alderman Rockwell, and approved by unanimous vote. Following this vote, Alderman Conroy was nominated as the Alternate Delegate by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Brooks, which nomination also received unanimous approval.
BOARDS AND
COMMISSIONS
Agenda Item #28
NEIGHBORHOOD PARTNERS/HANNA
The City Clerk read a memorandum from Mayor Schwiebert recommending the new appointment of Nancy Hanna to Neighborhood Partners. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the appointment as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote.
PERMITS/LICENSES
Agenda Item #29
HILLTOP/OUTSIDE EVENT
The City Clerk read a letter from Mike Kavanaugh, of the Hilltop Tavern, requesting permission to have an outside event in the parking lot of the Hilltop Tavern on September 1 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in conjunction with their 9th Annual Senior Golf Tournament. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the event CARRIED on a Voice vote.
ITEMS FROM THE
CITY MANAGER’S MEMORANDUM PACKET
City Manager John C. Phillips reviewed the Issues Agenda, calling attention to some of the highlights of issues that are coming up within the next months. He noted information on “School Funding” that was contained in the packet.
PUBLIC MEETINGS
Mr. Phillips called attention to the information provided by the City Attorney regarding the Statement of Interested Parties, which is used for Public Hearings. Alderman Keefe suggested that there should be a policy for all public hearings including the Planning Commission. Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, explained that the Statement of Interested Parties does not need to be completed by everyone wishing to speak for or against at a public hearing, but only by those who wish to cross-examine. He noted that all public hearings are open to the public, and an introduction to the public hearings is given at the beginning of each meeting. He noted that the Planning Commission makes recommendations to the City Council, and does not make any final decisions. Following discussion, Alderman Keefe stated that she would look at this again.
STORM WATER PERMITS
Mr. Phillips noted the information regarding the Storm Water Permit/Year One Accomplish-ments” provided by the Public Works Department.
HEALTH INSURANCE
Personnel Director John Thorson discussed the Health Insurance, noting that something needs to be done to correct the deficits. He stated that they continue to try to control the increasing costs, and the Health Committee is working on that. Mayor Schwiebert noted that there are two Council vacancies on this committee, and Alderman Bauersfeld and Conroy volunteered to be on the committee.
Mayor Schwiebert noted that they can attend the meetings scheduled for the coming week, but cannot vote until they have been officially appointed. Mr. Thorson stated that the Health Committee will be meeting Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.
REHAB PROGRAMS
Mr. Phillips called attention to the information regarding the “City of Rock Island Rehab Programs Summary 2004-2005” from Community and Economic Development.
CORA ORDINANCE
Mr. Phillips noted the information regarding the “C.O.R.A. Ordinance process memorandum provided by the Police Department. Alderman Bauersfeld noted his concern about the application of the three points, and requested that this be discussed at a Study Session in the near future so he and others can understand this more fully. He stated that, if changes are to be made, they can be changed before the budget process.
ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
Mayor Schwiebert noted the letter to the Illinois Municipal League.
RESURRECT THE AMERICAN DREAM
Mayor Schwiebert called attention to the information about the “Resurrect the American Dream” Project, and consensus of Council was to place this resolution on the Agenda for August 23.
OTHER BUSINESS
CATS
Dan Moore, 1922 15 ½ Street, Rock Island, discussed a problem he has with his neighbor when he lets his cat out. He said the neighbor takes the cat in and keeps it for days. He requested that the ordinance requiring the cats to be de-clawed be changed to allow the cats to maintain their claws. Mr. Phillips noted that staff would prepare a report regarding the reason for this requirement and what lead to the decision. Alderman Keefe noted that de-clawing and de-sexing the cats is not a guarantee that cats will not leave their yards, adding that she would be in favor of changing the ordinance to remove the requirement for de-clawing cats. Alderman White stated that all cats should be kept inside, because they are destroying songbirds, and stated that she would be opposed to changing the ordinance.
RICAB/CATFISH
Greg Moroni, Executive Director of RICAB, presented a letter to Council regarding a request for permission to place structures of catfish, five feet tall, in various places on public right of way – streets, sidewalks and parks. He noted that these would be placed throughout the Quad Cities, and not only in Rock Island. He said this is a fund-raising project for RICAB. He added that, if they receive a good response, they might do this again.
City Attorney John Konecky noted that the use of public right of way requires liability insurance naming the City as additional insured. It was suggested that Mr. Moroni get in touch with the City Attorney regarding the location, insurance, etc., and it will come back to Council for approval at that time.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to recess to Executive Session on matters of Property Acquisition CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 8:35 p.m.
Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 8:55 p.m. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Conroy to recess to Tuesday, August 17 at 5:00 p.m. at the Quad City Botanical Center for a joint meeting with the Moline City Council CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 8:56 p.m.
________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk