CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                              September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                       MINUTES                                                              

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, Margie Mejia-Caraballo, Joy Murphy, and Charles O. Austin III. Also present were City Manager John Phillips, Community and Economic Development Director Greg Champagne, Community Marketing Director Jennifer Fowler of Renaissance Rock Island, Renaissance Rock Island President Mike Thoms and Arts Advisory Committee Chair Brett Hitchcock.

 

City Manager John Phillips noted that the Study Session would adjourn early for everyone to attend the 6:15 p.m. reception for the Labor Day Parade winners in Council Chambers.

 

ARTS ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORT

 

City Manager John Phillips led the discussion by stating that the Arts and Advisory Committee prepared a nice report that summarized the various options, possibilities and recommendations for the Arts. City Manager John Phillips then inquired upon Brett Hitchcock, Chair of the Advisory and Arts Committee to update Council on the Report. Mr. Hitchcock thanked the Mayor for assembling a great and diverse group of individuals that comprise the Arts Committee. Mr. Hitchcock named the members of the Arts Committee that included himself as Chair, Vice Chair Lori Roderick, Ellis Kell, Dean Schroeder, Jodie Kavensky, Corrine Smith, Joedy Cook, Carolyn Krueger and Dino Hayz.

 

Mr. Hitchcock addressed the Council and explained the recommendation in the report regarding a plan for increasing the level of arts activity and awareness in the community with initial focus on the Rock Island Arts and Entertainment District. Mr. Hitchcock also noted that the Committee had 16 recommendations intended to be implemented over time and in partnership with local, states, regional or national organizations or levels of Government. The Arts Committee’s first recommendation is to create and implement an artist loan program in which this recommendation was included in the Downtown Strategic Plan, and funds have been appropriated in the FY 07/08 City Budget. The Arts Committee would also like continued support for the Metro Arts Program, District events and Sculpture in the District.  Other various recommendations included; review of street furniture and fixture designs, include art as part of the Armory Park waterfront development, establish a waterfront performing arts venue, expand the downtown banner program using designs by local artists, develop a guide to the Arts in Rock Island, Create a multi use community center at the Rocket Theatre property and develop an architectural arts lighting program.

 

Mr. Hitchcock concluded that the Arts are important to the cultural and economic vitality of the City, and putting arts in the Rock Island Arts and

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                               September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                          MINUTES           

 

Entertainment District would further the downtown vision of a place that is inviting to

workers, residents and visitors seeking the arts.

 

Mayor Schwiebert stated that the Citizens Advisory Committee has given the City real positive identifiers, which are practicable, doable and ambitious goals for the downtown to create a positive image in the arts area. Mayor Schwiebert noted that this is something to focus on as a Council to continually keep the Arts environment alive, and constantly attract new talent and revitalize the community in the process. 

 

COMMUNITY MARKETING UPDATE

 

City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Jennifer Fowler, Community Marketing Director of Renaissance Rock Island to address the Council and provide an update on the 2007 Community Marketing program. Ms. Fowler stated that there has been two major accomplishments to date, one of which includes the completion of the Rock Solid Rock Island television commercials, and a Strategic Marketing Plan was created for the Rock Island-Milan School District, which led to the hiring of a new Marketing Director (Holly Sparkman) position for the schools.

 

Jennifer Fowler also noted other completed and ongoing items including a public relations effort with local media that focused on personal profiles, quality of life venues and successful businesses. For the past seven months, articles were written about Rock Island in the Rock Island Argus and Quad City Times. A new publication, The Rock Island News included 137 articles about Rock Island.  Ms. Fowler also mentioned that a total of 2.97 million hits have been logged since the web site launched in 2005, with a total of 53,800 unique visitors to the website.

 

Ms. Fowler acknowledged other special projects for the remainder of 2007 and 2008, one of which is the telephone survey given every two (2) years to 400 residents and 400 non-residents. The survey will include questions to determine the effectiveness of the Rock Solid, Rock Island ads. Community Marketing Director Jennifer Fowler noted that some of the questions will include if people have seen the City’s print, online or television ads stating Rock Solid Rock Island, and if the ads have changed their perception.

 

Mayor Schwiebert suggested that residents should also be asked if the ads prompted a change in behavior, notably if they have spent money in the City as a result. Mayor Schwiebert commented that this requires them to extend themselves personally.  

 

Jennifer Fowler also mentioned that another round of television commercials will be pursued to start in the beginning of 2008.  The ads will feature real person accounts and quality of life scenes in Rock Island.  

 

 

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                              September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                        MINUTES 

 

Ms. Fowler concluded that a branding strategy and marketing plan specifically for the District will be developed to promote downtown, which may include a cooperative marketing program with the businesses.

 

GOAL SETTING BINDER REVIEW

 

City Manager John Phillips addressed Council and reviewed the Goal Setting Binder that

was distributed at the beginning of the Study Session. Mr. Phillips made reference to the Agenda for Goal Setting which will begin on Friday, September 21, 2007 at 12:00 p.m. for Council members and will continue on Saturday, September 22, 2007 beginning at 8:00 a.m.

 

Mr. Phillips made reference to the past year’s goals and accomplishments. Various highlights include the HyVee expansion; Columbia Park plan, in which the City established the area as a TIF District; the completion of Douglas Park, which was one of the highlights from the Old Chicago Plan; a sustainable design team was created, and the City reached an agreement to purchase the hydropower plant; the City was allowed to demolish the old Armory to make way for a new riverfront park, and a downtown strategic plan was developed and is being implemented.

 

City Manager Phillips made reference to the next section of the binder which includes development projects; most notably, the Casino Rock Island Project as well as others. The third section of the binder contained statistical data which Mr. Phillips noted is a good tool to use as a reference. Mr. Phillips commented that the last section includes information from the schools.

 

Mr. Phillips concluded that the information was provided for review to Council. Mr. Phillips also noted that an Executive Session was not needed on Personnel.

 

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

A motion made by Alderman Tollenaer and seconded by Alderman Conroy to adjourn the meeting carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was adjourned at 6:10 p. m.

 

   

 

 

_______________________________

                                                                         Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                              September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                         MINUTES

 

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, Margie Mejia-Caraballo, Joy Murphy and Charles O. Austin III. City Manager John Phillips was also present.

 

Before introductory proceedings, Mayor Schwiebert acknowledged the many visitors at the meeting who would be receiving awards in connection with the Labor Day Parade. Mayor Schwiebert also acknowledged the delegation of Cub Scout Pack 250, in which several of the young individuals would help lead in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.

 

Introductory Proceedings

 

Mayor Schwiebert called the meeting to order and Jake, Nate, Grant and Alex of Cub Scout Pack 250 lead in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderman Austin gave the Invocation. 

 

Agenda Item #5

Minutes of the Meeting of September 10, 2007. 

 

A motion was made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of September 10, 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #6

Presentation of the 2007 Labor Day Parade Awards.

 

 Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon Grace Shirk, a member of the Labor Day Parade Advisory Board to join him at the podium for the 2007 Presentation of the Labor Day Parade Awards. Ms. Shirk stated this year’s 23rd annual parade’s theme was Promoting a Healthy City, and posted over 150 entries with seven (7) bands and marching groups. Ms. Shirk thanked everyone involved with the parade for making it safe and successful. The following winners accepted their awards.

 

The Citizen’s Choice Award was selected by various citizens watching the parade. The winners were Q.C. Arts Festival of Trees Santa Mobile, Quad Cities Dog Obedience Club, Friendship Manor, Rock Island Horticulture Club, National Active & Retired Federal Employees (NARFE), and Retired Fire Fighters.

 

 

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                             September 17, 2007   

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                        MINUTES

 

The Council’s Choice Award winners were Nico’s Grocery & Tire Shop, Memorial Christian Church, Always Clowning.com, QC PAWS-RI County Animal Care & Control, Close Family Fire Truck, Edgewood Baptist Church and Rock Island Evening Lions.

The Rock Island Country Market was the recipient of the Parade Committee’s Choice Award. Horace Mann Choice School received the Marshal’s Choice Award for the best theme-related entry and Broadway Historic District was the recipient of The Mayor’s Cup Winner.

 

Agenda Item #7

Proclamation declaring September 18, 2007 as Watoto Children’s Choir Day.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon Rev. Dianne Jordan from the Rock Island Spiritual Church at 700 12th Street to step forward as he read the Proclamation declaring September 18, 2007 as Watoto Children’s Choir Day. After the Mayor read the Proclamation, Rev. Jordan stated that this event is a way of bringing Africa to the community to experience it. Rev. Jordan inquired upon the entire community to embrace and show support by coming to this event On Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at the Rock Island Spiritual Church located at 700 12th Street.   

 

Agenda Item #8

Proclamation declaring the week of September 22 through September 29, 2007 as America on the Move Week.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon Rock Island Parks and Recreation Director Bill Nelson to step forward as he read the Proclamation declaring the week of September 22 through September 29, 2007 as America on the Move Week. After the Mayor read the Proclamation, Rock Island Parks and Recreation Director Bill Nelson, and on behalf of Dan Osterman of the YMCA, thanked the Mayor for the award. Mr. Nelson stated that Childhood obesity is becoming a national concern. Mr. Nelson stated that the YMCA along with various businesses will host a River Walk. Also Mr. Nelson added that Rock Island Parks and Recreation will be participating in The World Wide Day of Fun to be held on Saturday, September 29, 2007 at RIFAC from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Mr. Nelson concluded there would be a range of activities for everyone.

 

Agenda Item #9

Proclamation declaring the week of September 24 through September 29, 2007 as Dollar Wise Week.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon Ms. Deb Hines to step forward as he read the Proclamation declaring the week of September 24 through September 29, 2007 as Dollar Wise Week. Ms. Hines stated Dollar Wise is comprised of lenders, employees and other concerned citizens who are concerned with the financial health of all Citizens. Ms. Hines commented that Dollar Wise has been in existence for three (3) years.  Ms. Hines

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                         MINUTES

 

commented that events including a home buyer seminar, an annual breakfast as well as an event entitled Bucks for Baskets will be held the last week of September. Also, Ms. Hines noted these events help to educate children and families to become financially established.  Ms. Hines thanked the Mayor for the Proclamation.

 

Agenda Item #10

Public Hearing on a request from Stephanie Dieudonne for a Special Use Permit to operate a wedding consulting business at 1408 40th Street.

 

Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 7:14 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a request from Stephanie Dieudonne for a Special Use Permit to operate a wedding consulting business at 1408 40th Street.

 

The Mayor swore in Stephanie Dieudonne.

 

Stephanie Dieudonne addressed the Council and stated that she planned to operate a part-time wedding consulting business from her home offering services of assistance in wedding planning and preparation.

 

Mayor Schwiebert read the stipulations for approval of the request, which included: that the business be limited to one resident employer, hours of operation be limited to 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays, a minimum of three off-street parking spaces be provided, no signs be allowed, and the property shall meet all applicable code requirements.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon Ms. Dieudonne if she understood the stipulations; Ms. Dieudonne responded yes.

 

 Alderwoman Murphy noted to Ms. Dieudonne that if any changes will be made regarding the requirements of the Special Use Permit, City Staff should be notified.

 

Mayor Schwiebert reiterated Alderwoman Murphy’s statement.

 

With no other persons present to speak in favor of, or in opposition to the Special Use Permit application, Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:18 p.m.

 

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to approve the request for a Special Use Permit at 1408 40th Street, subject to stipulations 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                         MINUTES

 

Agenda Item #11

A Special Ordinance Amending a zoning district and zoning map from an R-5 (multiple family residence) district and R-2 (one family residence) district to an O-1 (office) district at 4507 24th Street.

 

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Tollenaer seconded to allow the change.  The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

City Attorney John Konecky stated that the motion for Agenda Item #11 should state to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance.

 

Note: The Motion for Agenda Item #11 was inadvertently left out of the printed Agenda.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired to restate the motion, which would be to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance (change).

 

The corrected motion reads as follows;

 

It was moved by Alderman Pauley, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to consider suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance Amending a zoning district and zoning map from an R-5 (multiple family residence) district and R-2 (one family residence) district to an O-1 (office) district at 4507 24th Street. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none

 

Agenda Item #12

A Special Ordinance Amending a zoning district and zoning map from a B-1 (neighborhood business) district to a B-3 (community business) district at 1504 11th Street.

 

Note: The motion for Item #12 was inadvertently left out of the printed Agenda. The motion should be to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance.

 

A motion was made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Brooks to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance Amending a zoning district and zoning map from a B-1 (neighborhood business) district to a B-3 (community business) district at 1504 11th Street. . The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                         MINUTES

 

Agenda Item #13

CLAIMS

 

It was moved by Alderman Pauley seconded by Alderman Tollenaer, 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

a.       Report from the Information Technology Services Department regarding payment in the amount of $10,740.00 to Azteca Systems Inc. for Cityworks annual maintenance.(008)

 

b.      Report from Information Technology Services Department regarding payment in the amount of $2,640.00 to Bentley Systems Inc. for Stormwater Software annual maintenance. (009)

 

c.       Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $7,860.75 to Peterson Parking Lot Striping Inc. for the 2007 Joint Pavement Marking Program. (239)

 

d.      Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $3,476.00 to Jeff Cottrell for the building of Rain Gardens through the Rain Gardens for Rock Island Program. (249)

 

e.       Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $3,471.82 to Smith and Loveless Inc. for a Comminutor part at the Southwest Wastewater Plant. (252)

 

f.       Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $17,496.43 to Electric Pump for a KSB pump rebuild. (253)

 

g.      Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $24,438.00 to Peterson Parking Lot Striping Inc. for the 2007 Joint Pavement Marking Program. (254)

 

h.      Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $14,200.00 to Loverwell Fencing Inc. for Fence Repair on 1st Avenue between 20th Street to 9th Street. (255)

 

i.        Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 in the amount of $21,367.80 to Northwestern Restoration for City Hall Tuckpointing and Exterior Cleaning. (256)

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                           MINUTES

 

j.        Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 in the amount of $4,007.28 to C.H. Langman for the 2007 Water Service Repair Program. (260)

 

Agenda Item #14

Claims for the weeks of September 7 through September 13 in the amount of $1,152,853.87.

 

Alderman Conroy 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #15

Payroll for the weeks of August 27 through September 9 in the amount of $1,126,299.86.

 

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Austin 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #16

Report from the Personnel Department regarding a contract with Walgreens Health Initiative for the Retiree Drug Subsidy Program.

 

Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo seconded to approve the contract 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #17

Report from the Public Works Department regarding a request for two decorative street clocks to be placed on the Right-of-Way located at 1203 5th Avenue.

 

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the request as recommended.

 

Discussion followed with Alderman Austin inquiring as to whether approving the request compromises the Council’s ability to say no or is the case judged on individual merits.

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                         MINUTES

 

City Manager John Phillips responded that requests are done on a regular basis regarding landscape material and other things as long as insurance is provided, engineering reviews it and it doesn’t obstruct traffic. Mr. Phillips also added that requests are usually reviewed on a case by case basis.

 

After discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #18

Report from the Mayor regarding a proposed Amendment to Chapter 3, Sec. 309(b) of the Code of Ordinances regarding the Liquor License Ordinance.

 

Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderman Conroy seconded to approve the request as recommended, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance.

 

Discussion followed with Alderman Austin inquiring upon Mayor Schwiebert to give a brief explanation regarding Agenda Item #18.

 

Mayor Schwiebert stated that this is intended to broaden what types of businesses can have outdoor activities. Currently, Class B and C License holders (Bars) may have outdoor entertainment. This is intended to allow hotels and restaurants to have these kinds of Licenses. Mayor Schwiebert added that this is intended to treat all over the counter sales locations in an equal category.

 

After discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and  Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #19

Report from the Mayor regarding Appointments to the Liquor Commission and Beautification Commission.

 

It was moved by Alderman Conroy seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to approve the appointments 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

 Ms. Elizabeth Sherwin was appointed to the Liquor Commission with a term to expire on April 30, 2010.

 

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                               September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                         MINUTES

 

Ms. Carla McGreevey was appointed to the Beautification Commission with a term to expire on June 30, 2009.

 

Agenda Item #20

Report from the City Clerk regarding a request from Cabana’s for extended outdoor entertainment.

 

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to approve the request as recommended subject to changing their current Liquor License option from two to three and complying with all other Liquor License regulations, and subject to being closed down early if noise complaints are received.

 

Discussion followed with Alderman Pauley stating that changing a liquor license to a new license would still require Cabana’s to come back at the beginning of next year for approval of any events.

 

Mayor Schwiebert responded that is correct and the only thing that the continuous license would allow is that the continuous entertainment is for inside the establishment. Cabana’s would be able to do that, and it doesn’t require any permit from Council. Mayor Schwiebert added that any kind of outdoor entertainment (activity) requires authorization from Council, and the requirements are specific in terms of the 15 days advance notice, description of what kind of entertainment and the hours of the event. The Mayor noted that Council may set limits on it.  The Mayor also commented that since the business has been under new management, (commenting on past charges that were filed and not sustained by the Liquor Commission) Cabana’s is aware of what acceptable and unacceptable behavior means.

 

Alderman Conroy had concerns with the wording of the letter, and concerns with the times (11:00a.m.-3:00p.m.) of the request for Sunday Brunch. Alderman Conroy inquired as to whether the church had been notified by Cabana’s regarding the times, and inquired as to whether the times would conflict with church services.

 

Mr. Dave Lingafelter General Manager of Cabana’s located at 2120 4th Avenue stepped forward and stated that the church had been contacted, and church services begin at 9:00 a.m. and at 10:00 a.m. Mr. Lingafelter noted that services end by 11:00 a.m., and that he had personally contacted the neighbors regarding Cabana’s request.

 

After further discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those

voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                         MINUTES                

 

Agenda Item #21

Report from the City Clerk regarding an application and new Resolution for the Quad Cities Marathon to be held on Sunday, September 23, 2007.

 

It was moved by Alderman Pauley seconded by Alderman Conroy to adopt the new Resolution for the Quad Cities Marathon 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #22

Report from the City Clerk regarding a Great River Plaza Activity Application from Del’s in the District to hold a Bean Bag Tournament and live music outside on Friday, October 19 and Saturday, October 20, 2007.

 

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo moved and Alderman Austin seconded to approve the

event as recommended, subject to complying with all Liquor and Plaza regulations, and subject to contacting the Police Department for the hiring of off-duty Officers for the event. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #23

Report from the City Clerk regarding an Activity Permit Application for the Metro Bike Ride to be held on Saturday, September 22, 2007.

 

It was moved by Alderman Pauley seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the Activity Permit Application 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #24

Report from the City Clerk regarding a Sound Amplification Permit for the St. George Greek Orthodox Church for Friday September 21, 2007 and Saturday September 22, 2007.

 

Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderman Conroy seconded to approve the Sound Amplification Permit 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 Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                          MINUTES

 

Agenda Item #25

Items from the City Manager’s Memorandum Packet.

 

City Manager John Phillips brought to the Council’s attention that there would be a meeting on the IL. 92 Traffic Engineering Study in Council Chambers on Thursday, September 20, 2007 at 5:15 p.m. Mr. Phillips added that the meeting would entail preliminary information on the status of the study.

 

Alderman Conroy commented on the free Jazz Fest that was held on Saturday, September 15, 2007 in the District. Alderman Conroy stated that it was a fantastic event, and thanked Jonathon Young for putting on a fine event for the citizens of Rock Island.

 

Mayor Schwiebert commented on his recent trip to Sundance, Utah for the Mayor’s Summit Conference on Climate Change (Global Warming). Mayor Schwiebert noted that since the Industrial Revolution began, there has been a gradual increase of greenhouse gases enveloping our planet. This is gradually driving the temperature of the earth to a higher level. Mayor Schwiebert also commented that as a community, we have the opportunity to respond to the global crisis, and there will be a strong pressure placed on the community in the future to come up with more sustainable methods of reducing the amount of energy consumed as well as reducing the amount of waste and using more renewable types of energy. Mayor Schwiebert concluded that the City of Rock Island is moving ahead in that direction.

 

Agenda Item #26

Other Business

 

Mr. Ruben Moore Jr. of Esquire Lodge 1648 at 427 7th Avenue stepped forward and stated that he would like to request from Council to start on Friday, September 21, 2007 to set up the stage for his event (Unity Fest to be held on September 22 and 23, 2007) instead of the approved time, which is Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 6:00 a.m. Mr. Moore commented that he wasn’t aware that the professional stage coming in for his event was so big until late Sunday evening, and it would take approximately 6 hours to set it up. Mr. Moore also stated that he would be using 18th Street North of 3nd Avenue but there would still be access to lot F.

 

Mayor Schwiebert stated that Mr. Moore would be blocking the street and businesses in that area. The Mayor also noted that is why you try to get these issues addressed ahead of time so that the neighboring businesses can be consulted to see if there is any conflict.

 

After further discussion it was decided that Mr. Moore could begin set up for his event on Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 4:00 a.m.  The Mayor commented that early in the morning would be the best time because there would not be any conflict with the businesses that may be affected.

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 17, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING                                                                          MINUTES

 

Agenda Item #27

Executive Session on Personnel.

 

An Executive Session was not needed on Personnel.

 

Agenda Item #28

Recess

 

Note* On Agenda Item #28, the Motion to recess to Monday, October 1, 2007 was incorrectly stated on the printed Agenda. The corrected motion states; Motion to recess to Friday, September 21, 2007 at 12:00 p.m.

 

A motion was made by Alderwoman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Conroy to recess to, Friday, September 21, 2007 at 12:00 pm.  The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

The meeting was recessed at 7:57 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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                                                                    Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RC

 

RC

 
CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 21, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING-GOAL SETTING                                          MINUTES           

 

The Rock Island City Council met in reconvened session at 1:00 p.m. for the first day of the annual Goal Setting Session at Southwest Library in Southwest Rock Island. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Alderman Terry M. A. Brooks I, David Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Margie Mejia-Caraballo, Joy Murphy, and Charles O. Austin III. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips. Also present was Lyle Sumek, Group Facilitator of Sumek and Associates.

 

Mr. Sumek and Council reviewed the top 10 major accomplishments (successes) identified by staff and Council members. These accomplishments include the relocation of the Casino, the initiated construction and completed development agreement for the new HyVee Store, approval for the City being responsible for the future of the Rock Island Armory, the opening of the Rock River Bridge, Rental Inspection program, the purchase agreement for the Hydropower plant, Community Safety and Police Presence including the lights and Sirens class and bike officers, Columbia Park Revitalization with the creation of the TIF District, creation of the Green Team (Sustainable Environment), and expansion of the Community Health Center. A number of other various successes were identified including KJWW expansion, completion of the Main Library Renovation, Creation of Habitat Homes and Old Chicago home demolition and land acquisition.

 

Following the discussion on the successes, Council members were asked to look towards the future. Each Council member was asked to identify three (3) focus areas to work on during the next five (5) years and five (5) action items that they feel need to be undertaken in the next year. Some of the focus items were retail expansion to Southwest Rock Island,   Development of the Riverfront, Columbia Park development, increasing sales and property tax revenues and a Douglas Park plan. Various Actions included Riverfront planning (Armory), completion of the Casino Rock Island, review of City marketing strategies, securing funding for the King Center and retail development on Blackhawk Road corridor.

 

Mr. Sumek, City Manager Phillips, and Council members continued their discussion on the focus items and actions identified by staff and Council members. A motion made by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderman Pauley, to recess to Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 8:00 a.m. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting

No, none.

 

The meeting was recessed at 5:17 p.m.

 

 

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                                                                                               Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk

                                                         

CITY OF ROCK ISLAND                                                                September 22, 2007

CITY COUNCIL MEETING-GOAL SETTING                                          MINUTES

                       

The Rock Island City Council met in reconvened session at 8:00 a.m. for the second day of the annual Goal Setting Session at Southwest Library in Southwest Rock Island. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Alderman Terry M. A. Brooks I, David Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley,  Margie Mejia-Caraballo, Joy Murphy, and Charles O. Austin III. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips. Also present was Lyle Sumek, Group Facilitator of Sumek and Associates. Alderman Stephen L. Tollenaer arrived at 8:50 a.m.

 

Mr. Sumek led the group in reviewing the Rock Island Vision 2022. The Rock Island Vision for 2022 states that ROCK ISLAND is a Growing City with Beautiful Riverfronts, a Vibrant Downtown and Livable Neighborhoods. ROCK ISLAND is a Proud Community that Respects Diversity and History. OUR CITIZENS have choices for Educational, Cultural and Occupational Opportunities, Quality Homes and Places for Enjoyment and Fun.  The group also reviewed the Principals of each item identified in the vision, and what each means to the community.

 

Following discussion regarding the Vision, the group reviewed the Goals for 2012. They discussed each of the goals and voted to put them in order of importance at this time. They are: 1) Quality Services, Financially Sound City; 2) Growing Economy; 3) More and Better Retail; 4) Improved Riverfronts and Downtown; 5) More New Homes, Upgraded Older Homes; 6) Neighborhoods that are More Livable.

 

City Council members then reviewed each of the goals individually and discussed the strategic objectives and action items for each. They selected the challenges and opportunities presented by each of the goals, and then reviewed and selected action items for each of the goals.

 

Following discussion, they selected their priorities for the coming year, which will help meet the identified goals. The priorities and targets for action are as follows:

 

 

TOP PRIORITIES

(TARGETS FOR ACTION 2007-2008)

 

  1.  Support “Green Initiatives” identified by the Green Team.