CITY OF ROCK ISLAND

The Rock Island City Council met in Study Session at 5:00 p.m. at the McKesson Lofts Conference Room. Present were Mayor Dennis E. Pauley, presiding, Aldermen P. J. Foley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Jason W. Jones, Joy Murphy and Charles O. Austin III. Also present were City Manager John Phillips, Rock Island Schools Superintendent Rick Loy, Associate School Superintendent Mike Oberhaus, members of the Rock Island/Milan School Board and City Staff members. Alderman David Conroy arrived at 5:10 p.m. and Alderman Terry M.A. Brooks I arrived at 5:25 p.m.

JOINT MEETING WITH ROCK ISLAND SCHOOLS

Mayor Pauley welcomed everyone to the meeting at McKesson Lofts located at 100 19^th Street.

City Manager John Phillips distributed information and presented an update to Council and the Rock Island/Milan School Board regarding City finances.

Mr. Phillips stated that the area where the City is facing real pressure is with State revenues. Mr. Phillips indicated that the Income Tax is down approximately $600,000.00 from where it was several years ago. It was noted that Replacement Tax is down $900,000.00. City Manager Phillips added that Sales Tax is holding up well for the City. It was noted that the City is seeing a large increase in the costs of the Police and Fire pension levy. Mr. Phillips noted that the City collects approximately 25% of the Property Tax bill within the City; one-third of it goes to the Library; one-third goes to Parks and Recreation; one-third goes to General Operations and one-third goes to Police and Fire pensions. Mr. Phillips explained that it will be a difficult year and noted that the City is currently working on next year’s budget. Mr. Phillips stated that the City is in good financial condition.

Mr. Phillips indicated that the City has many projects that are either in the design stages or under construction. It was noted that the 12 million dollar park on the riverfront is under construction and design is under way for a 45 million dollar expansion of the Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is required by the EPA. Mr. Phillips offered that the three million dollar expansion and renovation of the Martin Luther King Center is under design and the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center expansion is designed and construction will begin soon. In addition, a variety of projects including Douglas Park are under design.

Mr. Phillips also discussed the capital bill and stimulus funding. It was noted that the City was awarded over three million dollars in grants regarding the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. The funding will be used to acquire property, renovate property and demolish abandoned and blighted structures. Mr. Phillips stated that the City was the largest downstate grant recipient in the State of Illinois.

Mr. Phillips mentioned that the City’s Goal Setting Sessions will be held on Friday, October 2 and Saturday, October 3, 2009.

Mayor Pauley stated that Council packets include a memo regarding 13 or 14 names of people that have accepted the invitation to participate in the new Safer Communities Task Force. Mayor Pauley offered that this will be a short term task force with focus groups that will include youth and adults from the community. Mayor Pauley added that the premise for the new task force is how to make the community a safer place to live.

Superintendent Rick Loy distributed the 2009 Rock Island/Milan School District fall newsletter and presented an update in regards to the Building Excellence Plan.

Mr. Loy stated that the Building Excellence Plan led to a 31 million dollar project, which is currently underway and includes making upgrades or additions to all of the elementary schools that are being kept open along with the two junior high schools and the building of a new school at the old Villa site.

Associate Superintendent Mike Oberhaus presented an update of where the school district is in regards to the upgrades and construction concerning the schools.

Mr. Oberhaus stated that construction on the Rock Island Center for Math and Science at the former Villa site has accelerated over the summer and the school is on schedule to be completed next spring. It was noted that the grand opening is scheduled in late July of 2010. It was noted that the Center for Math and Science is currently housed at two (2) locations. Mr. Oberhaus indicated that ribbon-cutting ceremonies have been held at Longfellow Liberal Arts, Eugene Field Elementary and Thomas Jefferson Elementary. Mr. Oberhaus added that Denkmann Elementary has a new front entrance with enhanced security features and the new office area and other instruction spaces have been completed; Frances Willard Elementary has a new parking lot. Mr. Oberhaus stated that Ridgewood’s new media center and cafeteria are complete and the classrooms will be completed in 2010. Mr. Oberhaus added that the new Academy’s cafeteria and administration offices are nearing completion and the classrooms are scheduled to be finished by this December. It was noted that the upgrades for Earl Hanson Elementary, Edison Junior High School and Washington Junior High School are under design.

Mr. Loy then discussed the changes that are taking place in regards to academics relating to best practices. In addition, Mr. Loy discussed the partnerships that the Rock Island/Milan School District has formed with Augustana College, St. Ambrose University and the Illinois Math and Science Academy. Mr. Loy indicated that it is very important in preparing students for lifelong careers. It was noted that they are working on securing funding for career building programs at Rock Island High School.

Mr. Loy then discussed the four (4) biggest challenges that the school district is facing, which include; No Child Left Behind in which an unfunded federal mandate requires student test scores to increase 7.5% each year; the Growing English Learner Program in which the student population from foreign countries who speak very little or no English has increased dramatically; reversing the trend of student enrollment in which the school district has lost 600 students over a period of six (6) years; and school funding as it relates to revenues at the State level.

Council discussed the Rock Island/Milan School District’s partnerships, career building and collaboration between the school district and the City regarding safer routes to schools.

ADJOURNMENT

A motion made by Alderman Foley and seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to adjourn the meeting carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was adjourned at 5:50 p. m.

__________________________

Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk

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 Dennis E. Pauley, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M.A. Brooks I, David Conroy, P. J. Foley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Jason W. Jones, Joy Murphy and Charles O. Austin III. City Manager John Phillips was also present.

Introductory Proceedings

Mayor Pauley called the meeting to order and lead in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderwoman Murphy gave the Invocation.

Note: Mayor Pauley presented Update Rock Island and following the update, the Minutes of the meeting of September 14, 2009 were approved.

Agenda Item #6

Update Rock Island by Mayor Pauley.

Mayor Pauley noted that the Fall Community Garage Sale will be held at Longview Park (located at 18^th Avenue and 17^th Street) on Saturday, September 26, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Mayor mentioned that items for sale will include books, clothing, furniture, toys, food and more. It was noted that the rain date for the sale would be held on Sunday, September 27, 2009. Mayor Pauley stated that for more information call 732-PARK.

Mayor Pauley stated that the Fall Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Quad City Botanical Center. It was noted that plants include bulbs, ornamental grasses, annuals, perennials and much more. In addition, surplus plants from the Longview Greenhouse and Gardens as well as plants from the public and the Rock Island Horticulture Club members will be sold. It was noted that proceeds from the sale will benefit City beautification projects.

The Mayor indicated that the Community Caring Conference is sponsoring a Unity in the Community Free Picnic on Saturday, September 26, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Lincoln Park. It was noted that everyone is invited to a free neighborhood meal, along with the opportunity to learn how the Community Caring Conference, which is a community action agency, is a citizen’s advocate in Rock Island. The Mayor stated that everyone can learn about block clubs, neighborhood watches, Graffiti Busters and Child Identification. The Mayor added that for more information call 309 786-0345.

Mayor Pauley indicated that the Quad Cities Marathon will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2009 beginning at 7:30 a.m. The Mayor added that the race events include; a marathon, half marathon, five (5) person relay, one (1) mile walk, 5K run or walk and kids’ runs. It was noted that the marathon encompasses four (4) cities, three (3) bridges, two (2) states and one (1) island along the Mississippi River. In addition, the race will cross the Centennial Bridge into Rock Island, run through the District and then run through Arsenal Island. Mayor Pauley stated that if anyone would like more information, they may visit www.qcmarathon.org.

Agenda Item #5

Minutes of the Meeting of September 14, 2009.

A motion was made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Jones to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of September 14, 2009. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #7

Presentation by Keep Rock Island Beautiful.

Keep Rock Island Beautiful Director Carolyn Fuller along with board member Bob Towler addressed the Council. Mr. Towler distributed a folder, which included Keep Rock Island Beautiful’s expense and revenue report (2008-2009).

Ms. Fuller stated that Keep Rock Island Beautiful has had a very successful and busy Year. Ms. Fuller offered that Keep Rock Island Beautiful has added six (6) new organizations or individuals to the Adopt-a-Highway program. It was noted that currently, there are 34 groups or individuals in the program, and this year, 670 Adopt-a-Highway volunteers worked to clean the streets within the City. Ms. Fuller indicated that Keep Rock Island Beautiful has organized a Downtown cleanup, two (2) bike path cleanups, six (6) neighborhood cleanups and two (2) cigarette butt litter scans and cleanups in the District. It was noted that 1404 volunteers have cleaned up over 30, 000.00 pounds of trash from Rock Island streets.

Ms. Fuller stated that the Keep Rock Island Beautiful awards have been presented to organizations, businesses and individuals that consistently work to keep their property free of litter and have diligently worked on recycling projects. It was noted that besides the sponsorship that they have received from the City, they have also obtained grants or sponsorships from a variety of organizations.

Ms. Fuller stated that Keep Rock Island Beautiful was presented with the Keep America Beautiful’s President’s Circle Recognition Award for the past three (3) years and will receive it again this year. Ms. Fuller added that Keep Rock Island Beautiful’s move to the Centennial Bridge Visitors Center located at 201 15^th Street has worked very well. It was noted that next year will be Keep Rock Island’s Beautiful 25^th anniversary.

Agenda Item #8

Proclamation declaring the month of October, 2009 as Christian Care Month.

Mayor Pauley read the Proclamation declaring the month of October, 2009 as Christian Care Month.

Ms. Sharon Defrieze accepted the Proclamation. Ms. Defrieze thanked the Mayor and Council for the Proclamation. Ms. Defrieze indicated that everyone was invited to Christian Care’s block party, which will be held on Sunday, October 4, 2009 at 2209 3^rd Avenue (mission site). The party will begin at 12:00 noon. Ms. Defrieze stated that the event is being held to raise awareness of Christian Care.

Agenda Item #9

Proclamation declaring the month of October, 2009 as Crime Prevention Month.

Mayor Pauley read the Proclamation declaring the month of October, 2009 as Crime Prevention Month.

Michelle Isaacs accepted the Proclamation on behalf of the Community Caring Conference. Ms. Isaacs thanked the City for the Proclamation. Ms. Isaacs invited everyone to attend the Unity in the Community Picnic on Saturday, September 26, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Ms. Isaacs also mentioned that the Community Hero Awards Banquet will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Milan Community Center.

Agenda Item #10

A Special Ordinance regulating parking at 2035 9^th Street.

Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Foley seconded to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #11

A Special Ordinance amending a Special Ordinance by establishing a dedicated right turn lane at the intersection of 17^th Street and 25^th Avenue.

It was moved by Alderman Foley, seconded by Alderman Brooks to defer Agenda Item #11 to Monday, October 12, 2009. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #12

A Special Ordinance amending a Special Ordinance by establishing four (4) hour parking spaces on the east side of 19^th Street between 2^nd and 3^rd Avenue and establishing two (2) handicapped parking spaces in front of the entrance to the building on the east side of 19^th Street between 2^nd and 3^rd Avenue.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Foley seconded to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #13

CLAIMS

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderman Jones, to accept the following reports and authorize payment as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

a. Report from the Administrative Services Department regarding payment in the amount of $2,645.00 to Bentley Systems, Inc. for the Stormwater Software annual maintenance.

b. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $16,175.14 to USALCO for the August 2009 delivery of liquid aluminum sulfate. (290)

c. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $3,947.89 to EIMCO Water Technologies for the emergency purchase of one (1) mechanical seal. (291)

d. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #2 and final in the amount of $32,519.36 to Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities for services provided for the Decorative Stamped Edging and Sidewalk project. (292)

e. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 in the amount of $82,594.90 to Langman Construction, Inc. for services provided for the 2009 Catch Basin and Manhole Program projects. (293)

f. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 and final in the amount of $75,509.20 to Uretek USA, Inc. for services provided for the 2009 Mudjacking Program project. (294)

g. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #8 in the amount of $5,116.49 to Williams/Valley Construction Management for services provided for the Armory Park-Bid Release 1 project. (297)

h. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #4 in the amount of $743,099.30 to Williams/Valley Construction Management for services provided for the Armory Park-Bid Release 2 project. (298)

i. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 in the amount of $109,999.55 to General Asphalt for services provided for the 2009 Asphalt Street Milling and Patching Program project. (299)

j. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,898.19 to Martin Equipment for emergency repairs to a 2002 JD Wheel Loader. (300)

Agenda Item #14

Claims for the week of September 11 through September 17 in the amount of $852,249.80.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Foley seconded to allow the claims. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #15

Report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the MidAmerican Energy Substation landscape screen, recommending the bid be awarded to Valley Construction in the amount of $204,060.22.

It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman Brooks to award the bid as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents.

Discussion followed with Alderman Conroy inquiring as to whether the money to pay for this project would come from Tax Increment Financing (TIF).

City Manager Phillips stated that it would be coming from TIF money and also would include a grant from MidAmerican Energy to help pay for the project.

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

Agenda Item #16

Report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for an entry way sign at 44^th Street and 4^th Avenue, recommending the bid be awarded to Valley Construction in the amount of $63,359.80.

Alderman Foley moved and Alderwoman Murphy seconded 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 Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #17

Report from the Finance Department regarding an adjustment to the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget, recommending an adjustment to the Library’s Fiscal Year 2010 budget in the amount of $16,616.16.

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the adjustment as recommended.

Alderman Austin commented that the budget adjustment allows the library to extend money being raised by the Friends of the Library.

Agenda Item #18

Report from the Finance Department regarding an adjustment to the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget, recommending an adjustment to the Water Fund in the amount of $41,897.00.

Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderman Foley seconded to approve the adjustment as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #19

Report from the Public Works Department regarding a payment to Drinker Biddle & Reath, recommending payment in the amount of $22,871.64 for legal services performed between April 1, 2009 and June 30, 2009 relating to the Illinois Power Agency procurement process.

It was moved by Alderman Jones, seconded by Alderman Foley to approve the payment as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #20

Report from the Police Department regarding Section 8 of the Great River Plaza Ordinance and security requirements for outdoor events Downtown, recommending that Section 8 of the Great River Plaza Ordinance not be modified and the security requirements for outdoor events Downtown not be waived.

Note: The original motion for Agenda Item #20 was whether or not to approve the requests as recommended, which included not modifying Section 8 of the Great River Plaza Ordinance and not waiving security requirements for outdoor events Downtown.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to open Agenda Item #20 for discussion.

Alderman Conroy stated that the reason he requested this report was due to one of the establishments (Steve’s Old Time Tap) Downtown in the District wanting to have an event during the daytime hours. It was noted that the event is more of a family activity.

Alderman Conroy indicated that he finds the requirements of having Police Officers at a daytime event that will only be held for a few hours counterproductive. Alderman Conroy added that the City does not have a lot of daytime activities happening in the Downtown District area. Alderman Conroy stated that he believes that the City should allow the waiver of the security requirement for organizations and businesses that hold family events Downtown during the daytime.

Alderman Conroy inquired to City Attorney Konecky as to whether or not it was allowed to waive that portion of the Ordinance regarding the security requirement for an organization or owner of a business Downtown.

City Attorney Konecky stated that he has not reviewed the item.

Police Chief John Wright stated that he had talked to City Attorney Ted Kutsunis regarding that issue. Chief Wright indicated that one of Attorney Kutsunis’s concerns was regarding the waiver of security requirements concerning non-profit organizations. Chief Wright offered that the Great River Plaza Ordinance states that Police security Downtown is a minimum requirement. Chief Wright indicated that City Attorney Kutsunis thought it would be ok to waive a portion of the Ordinance. It was noted that the other issue of legal concern would be that if anything happens, it could be a liability on the City’s part due to the Ordinance stating that there shall be minimum requirements of hiring Police Officers because of public property.

More discussion followed regarding daytime events in relation to public property as opposed to private property and Police security as it relates to the Plaza Ordinance and minimum requirements. Council also discussed daytime events as opposed to nighttime events and types of events in relation to Police security. After more discussion, Chief Wright agreed that the requirements could be waived for the event.

After more discussion, Alderman Conroy withdrew his motion to open Agenda Item #20 for discussion, Alderman Brooks withdrew his second.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to waive the minimum requirement of having two (2) Police Officers at Steve’s Old Time Tap for the 4^th annual Grill-off on Saturday, October 3, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

City Attorney John Konecky inquired as to whether Alderman Conroy would like a report submitted from the City Attorney’s Office relating to this issue.

Alderman Conroy stated that he would like a report submitted regarding whether or not the City Council had the legal right to waive the requirement.

Note: The above mentioned event was approved by City Council on July 13, 2009.

Agenda Item #21

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the Rock Island Bikeways Plan.

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderman Foley to adopt the plan as recommended.

Discussion followed.

Mr. Dan Osterman of 61 Hawthorne Road and a member of the Rock Island Bicycle Task force stepped forward. Mr. Osterman stated that this committee has worked very hard on this plan since last December. This plan is a good proposal to improve the City and make it a better place to live.

Alderman Austin inquired to Mr. Osterman as to whether the people (that may be impacted by this plan in regards to on-street parking) have been included in the discussions and made aware of the plan.

Mr. Osterman stated that this is a very comprehensive plan and there needs to be city-wide meetings for everyone to be aware of it.

More discussion followed regarding the Bikeways Plan as it relates to streets and safety.

Agenda Item #22

Report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request to ban parking for one space on 14^th Avenue in front of Harris Pizza and install a handicapped parking space on 14^th Avenue next to the No Parking space.

Agenda Item #22 was deferred from Monday, September 14, 2009 Council Meeting. (A Motion remained on the floor; Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Conroy seconded to approve the request as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance.)

Discussion followed.

Alderwoman Murphy stated that parking on 14^th Avenue is always crowded. Alderwoman Murphy indicated that she has discussed this issue and the request with the owners of Harris Pizza and they are very much in favor of the request.

Ms. Deanna Bradley of 1150 40^th Street stepped forward with her son Bill Bradley. Ms. Bradley stated that they were on a family walk recently and her son was struck by a vehicle while crossing the intersection. Ms. Bradley stated that they could not see the vehicle coming because a vehicle was parked too close to the intersection. Ms. Bradley offered that her son received 80 stitches to his head as a result of that accident. Ms. Bradley was very much in favor of the request.

Mr. George Minarsich of 4601 12^th Street stepped forward. Mr. Minarsich voiced concerns regarding accidents and traffic congestion on 14^th Avenue. Mr. Minarsich stated that something needs to be done to make that area safer for pedestrians. Mr. Minarsich was in favor of the request.

Mr. Bill Bradley of 1150 40^th Street stepped forward. Mr. Bradley stated that traffic is horrible on 14^th Avenue and stated that something needs to be done to make the street and area safer for pedestrians. Mr. Bradley was in favor of the request.

Ms. Nancy Bradley (no address given) stepped forward and voiced concerns regarding traffic congestion and accidents on 14^th Avenue. Ms. Bradley was in favor of the request.

Ms. Terry Stimpson, President of the Keystone Neighborhood Association and residing at 1121 39^th Street stepped forward. Ms. Stimpson distributed a letter to Council regarding pedestrian protection at the corner of 39^th Street and 14^th Avenue. Ms. Stimpson and the Keystone Neighborhood Association were in support of the family’s request. Ms. Stimpson offered suggestions for implementing protection for pedestrians in that area, which included a striped crosswalk, no parking zones and a pedestrian crossing sign.

Mr. Timothy Dooling of 832 14½ Street stepped forward. Mr. Dooling stated that 14^th Avenue is a congested area and offered that putting in or painting a crosswalk at the intersection would give pedestrians a false sense of security for making that area safer.

Alderman Conroy commended Harris Pizza for their willingness to give up a parking space and for being a good neighbor.

After more discussion regarding options for slowing down traffic on the corner of 39^th Street and 14^th Avenue, The motion reads as follows:

Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Conroy 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 Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #23

Report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request (petition) to remove residential parking on 14^th Street between 21^st and 23^rd Avenue.

Alderman Foley stated that he lives on the street regarding Agenda Item #23 and that he would not be taking part in any discussion concerning this item nor would he be voting on Agenda Item #23.

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to open up Agenda Item #23 for discussion.

Alderman Pauley inquired as to whether there was anyone who wished to speak on Agenda Item #23.

Mr. Barrett Essman of 2230 14^th Street addressed Council. Mr. Essman stated that he opposed removing the residential parking. Mr. Essman indicated that he lives north of the high school on 14^th Street and noted that 14^th , 15^th and 16^th Street has permit parking from 8:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m. Mr. Essman offered that 22^nd and 23^rd Avenue and 15½ Street has two (2) hour parking. It was noted that the whole neighborhood north of the high school has some type of controlled parking. Mr. Essman then referred to a map and stated that each house that borders 14^th Street has a driveway that enters and exits onto 14^th Street. The houses on the right side of the street have an alley that they can get in and out of onto 14^th and 15^th Street, but they do not have a driveway. Mr. Essman added that if the petition was passed, people on the left side of the street would be affected more than the people on the right side of the street. In addition, the removal of residential parking on 14^th Street will cause more traffic congestion and accidents. Mr. Essman stated that the solution would be to leave the parking as is.

Alderman Brooks and Alderman Conroy agreed with Mr. Essman.

Alderman Conroy withdrew his motion to discuss and Alderman Brooks withdrew his second. With no motion moved, Agenda Item #23 died for lack of a motion.

Agenda Item #24

Report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request for the removal of a handicapped parking space at 2157 14^th Street.

Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Jones 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 Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #25

Report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request (petition) to reduce the speed limit on Turkey Hollow Road from Andalusia Road to the City limits.

Mayor Pauley stated that the applicant would like to request that Agenda Item #25 be deferred until Monday, October 19, 2009.

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderman Brooks to defer Agenda Item #25 until Monday, October 19, 2009. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #26

Items from the City Manager’s Memorandum Packet.

City Manager Phillips inquired upon Finance Accounting Supervisor Linda Johnson to highlight several points regarding the 2009 August Management Report.

Ms. Johnson discussed the projected revenues and shortfalls from the major tax revenues.

Ms. Johnson stated that the projection for the Income Tax, Replacement Tax and Utility Tax still remain a concern. Ms. Johnson referred to the report and stated that the Income Tax shows a shortfall of $343,816.00 through August. However, it was noted that September’s distribution was posted on-line to the State website last week, which shows a shortfall of $424,000.00. It was noted that the Replacement Tax is a concern due to it coming in sporadically. Ms. Johnson offered that the City reduced its 2010 budget by $408,000.00 anticipating a reduction in receipts based on a report from the Illinois Municipal League.

It was noted that the Utility Tax has a shortfall of $364,520.00, which is approximately $28,000.00 less than last month. Ms. Johnson stated that this shortfall would not be as significant at year end.

Ms. Johnson explained that in regards to the investment totals, the Illinois Funds Prime Fund has a zero fund balance for July and August due to the elimination of the fund and transferring it to the Money Market Fund for easier management and to reduce costs.

City Manager Phillips made reference to a graph included in the memo packet regarding the Water Service Repair Program, Sewer Lateral Repair Program and the Curbside Recycling Program. Mr. Phillips stated that the graph is a good way to show how participation levels are in those programs.

Mr. Phillips made reference to information included in the memo packet regarding the 2010 Census Timeline Report.

City Manager Phillips called to Council’s attention information included in the memo packet regarding the Rock Solid, Rock Island Marketing Update as it relates to the marketing campaign.

Alderman Austin stated that the annual fundraiser Cooking Up Mystery will be held at the Rock Island Public Library on Thursday, October 8, 2009 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Alderman Austin noted that the cost is $25.00 per person or $35.00 per couple. Alderman Austin added that there will be food, activities, gift baskets and noise is welcome. It was noted that for more information, contact the Rock Island Public Library.

Alderman Brooks who is a graduate of Rock Island High School reminded everyone that the Rock Island Rocks and the Alleman Pioneers will soon meet again in the football arena. Alderman Brooks entertained a friendly challenge to the Council members that attended Alleman High School that whichever team wins the upcoming football game; the losing team would have to sing the winning team’s fight song at the next Council meeting.

Alderwoman Murphy reminded everyone to Shop Rock Island. Alderwoman Murphy stated that if anyone needs flowers, they may shop at Lamps Flower Shop located at 14^th Avenue and 39^th Street.

Alderwoman Murphy offered that there has been vandalism in the 6^th Ward. Alderwoman Murphy noted that there will be a meeting held at St. John’s Lutheran Church at 45^th Street and 7^th Avenue on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Parish Hall. Alderwoman Murphy stated that the meeting will focus on how neighbors can be more proactive in working with the Police Department to keep their neighborhoods safe.

Agenda Item #27

Other Business

Mr. Ken Jones of 1728 20½ Avenue stepped forward and voiced concerns regarding repairs on 24^th Street. Mr. Jones was concerned that some of the neighborhood driveways look more like curbs and are not wheelchair accessible. Mr. Jones also voiced concerns regarding statements that were made by one of the City Engineers regarding redoing the driveways as it relates to cost.

Alderman Conroy requested a follow up report from City staff on this issue.

Timothy Dooling of 832 14½ Street voiced concerns regarding Police issues.

Mr. Billy Bradley of 1150 40^th Street reiterated concerns that he voiced earlier for Agenda Item #22.

Mr. George Minarsich of 4601 12^th Street reiterated concerns that he voiced earlier in regards to Agenda Item #22.

Agenda Item #28

Executive Session on Property Acquisition and Litigation.

A motion was made by Alderman Brooks, seconded by Alderman Conroy at 8:15 p.m. to recess to Executive Session on matters of Property Acquisition and Litigation. The motion carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

Agenda Item #29

Recess

Mayor Pauley reconvened the regular meeting at 8:52 p.m. A motion was made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to recess to Friday, October 2, 2009 at 12:00 noon. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Jones, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

The meeting was recessed at 8:53 p.m.

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Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk