The Rock Island City Council met in reconvened session on Monday, September 27, 2004 at 6:45 p.m. in Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, David A. 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 lead in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderman White gave the Invocation. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman White to approve the Minutes of the meeting of September 20 as printed CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #6
TRICK OR TREAT/FRIDAY, OCTOBER
31
Mayor Schwiebert read a proclamation declaring Sunday, October 31 as “Trick or Treat” day in Rock Island.
Agenda Item #7
Mayor Schwiebert read a “Resolution of Commitment to Resurrecting the American Dream” and noted that a copy of it would be sent to the National League of Cities. He explained the reason for the Resolution. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman White to adopt the Resolution CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #8
The City Clerk read an Ordinance providing for the licensing of rental residential property. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Brooks to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance. Alderman Keefe discussed the ordinance, stating that Council requested that the first properties to be inspected are those that look bad from the outside. She noted that was not in the ordinance but would part of the implementation. She added that the purpose of the ordinance was to have everybody living in safe housing. Alderman Brooks stated that it was directed at absentee landlords who don’t have enough respect for their tenants to make sure their rental property is secure and safe. He stated that the purpose of the ordinance is not to get rid of the landlords who are doing a good job and it is not an attack on all landlords.
Alderman Rockwell stated that section 4-177 does not have a place in this ordinance. A suggestion was made to take out the words “a person to knowingly occupy a rental residential property, or for..” Following further discussion, a motion to amend, deleting reference to any tenant sanctions, was made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman Conroy.
Alderman Conroy stated that the tenant’s responsibility to know the landlord’s responsibility should be removed from the ordinance. Tom Ayers, Chief Building Official, stated that the city already has the power to put people out due to unsafe conditions. He noted that sometimes tenants choose to live in this type of house, and this ordinance is not intended to punish the tenant for the landlord’s failure to register for the license. Greg Champagne, Community and Economic Development Department Director, stated that this section of the ordinance was put in as an effort to put some responsibility on the tenants – to make them aware of unlicensed properties. Alderman Keefe suggested leaving in this section as it was written. Alderman Conroy stated that it should be changed because this is going after the person who has no vested interest in the property. He stated that the ordinance should be enforced against the owners of the property. In response to a comment that the tenants are sometimes responsible for the condition of the property, Alderman Conroy stated that the property owner has civil remedies for that. Alderman Austin commented that, if unsafe conditions existed and the tenant was advised of this, they would know of the licensing provision.
Alderman Brooks stated that he hated to see this get tied up with language. The intent of the ordinance is to take care of properties that are deteriorating the neighborhoods. He added that sometimes the tenant causes the problems and the landlords cannot always get rid of them. He stated that he does not want this to be delayed because there are properties where people should not be living in. Mayor Schwiebert stated that this gives staff some leverage in instances where the tenants are the cause of the problems, and Alderman Brooks noted that fining tenants would not resolve anything because they won’t pay the fines but will just move to another location.
The vote on the amendment to the main motion – to delete any reference to tenant sanctions – CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Rockwell, White and Austin. NAYS: Alderman Keefe. ABSTAIN: Alderman Bauersfeld.
A motion to DEFER for one week, made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Rockwell, CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None. The main motion, made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Brooks, to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance, remains on the floor.
Agenda Item #9a
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Brandt Construction in the amount of $28,899.73 for an emergency storm sewer repair at 14th Street West.
Agenda Item #9b
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Baecke Appraisers in the amount of $4,200.00 for the appraisals of seven properties for the Genesis Site Storm Water Design project.
Agenda Item #9c
GARDNER, CARTON AND
DOUGLAS/PRETREATMENT PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Gardner, Carton and Douglas in the amount of $3,595.35 for professional services for the Pretreatment Program – NPDES Permit.
Agenda Item #9d
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Rail City Construction in the amount of $9,576.87 for the 2004 Brick Street Patch Project.
Agenda Item #9e
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Centennial Contractor in the amount of $69,626.31 for the 2004 Utility Patching Program.
Agenda Item #9d
The City Clerk read a report from the Finance Director recommending payment to Timothy Sharpe in the amount of $4,400.00 for the Fire and Police Pension actuarial valuations.
Alderman White asked Public Works Director Bob Hawes if Item #9 e referred to concrete patching or blacktop. Mr. Hawes responded that whatever was removed would be replaced with the same substance.
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 #10
The City Clerk read the claims for the week of September 17 through 23 in the amount of $1,178,102.53. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Austin to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
BIDS/PURCHASES
Agenda Item #11
RACOM COMMUNICATIONS/COMMUNICATION DEVICE
The City Clerk read a report from the Police Department regarding bids for the purchase of an ACU1000 communication device, recommending the bid of RACOM Communications in the amount of $56,441.00. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to award the bid as recommended and authorize purchase CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #12
BONNELL, MONROE TRUCK/SNOW PLOW PARTS
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding quotations for the purchase of snow plow parts, recommending the bid of Bonnell Industries in the amount of $14,740.90 and the bid of Monroe Truck Equipment in the amount of $2,570.88. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to award the bids as recommended and authorize purchases CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #13
UTILITY SUPPLIES/LOW BIDDERS
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding Joint Purchasing Council bids for the purchase of Utility Supplies, recommending that the bids be awarded to the low bidders listed in the report. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to award the bids as recommended and authorize purchase CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #14
VALLEY CONSTRUCTION/2004 PAVEMENT GRINDING PROGRAM
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the 2004 Pavement Grinding Program, recommending the bid of Valley Construction in the amount of $248.00 per hour. A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman White to award the bid with the total amount not to exceed $8,000.00 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
PHOENIX CORPORATION/R I PARKWAY EROSION CONTROL PROJECT
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the Rock Island Parkway Erosion Control project, recommending the bid of Phoenix Corporation in the amount of $257,905.05. Alderman Conroy asked where this project is, and Mr. Hawes responded that it is on the south side of the parkway west of Ridgewood Road, where the embankment seems to be caving in. He added that the other side will need to be done next year also. Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld 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 #16
ENVIRONET/ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a contract with EnviroNet for environmental services at the Midway Oil Products property. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman White to approve the contract 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 #17
The City Clerk read a report from the Police Department regarding a one-year extension of the City Towing Contract with Rick’s Towing at the current rates. Alderman Bauersfeld commented that people have indicated that the staff of Rick’s Towing do not treat the customers very well and are discourteous to them, specifically statements he heard when Second Avenue was opened and vehicles were towed after closing late at night. He asked that staff make sure the staff of the new owner is more courteous to the customers. Alderman Conroy suggested that their site be monitored also, since he receives complaints about the condition of the sites and the way the cars are left in the lots. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman White to approve the contract extension 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 #18
The City Clerk read a report from the Community and Economic Development Department and Planning Commission regarding the proposed sign ordinance revisions, recommending approval of the Sign Ordinance amendments, with the exception of the requirements related to size and height as well as the phasing out of existing signs. A motion was made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the Sign Ordinance with exceptions stated and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance.
Alan Carmen, Planning and Redevelopment Administrator, reviewed the background of the sign ordinance being tied to the Zoning Ordinance. He stated that other cities are also regulating signs by zoning district. He stated that they looked at tightening up the area for signs as well as the height, and discussed their contacts with various business and neighborhood associations in the area during this process. He noted that one issue was the amortization of existing signs, and following discussion with Council and others, a ten-year period was suggested. At the end of this ten-year period, all signs would have to conform to the new ordinance requirements.
Mr. Carmen stated that no other city in the Quad Cities has required an amortization period, but other cities in Illinois have done it, using periods of three years to twenty years. He suggested that a financial incentive be offered, using some city funds if compliance is done in the first five years. He indicated that the purpose of the ordinance is to have shorter, less intrusive signs in less of an area while still being able to get the business message out. He discussed the types of signs that would be allowed for various locations in the city. He noted that he has received calls concerning the amortization of the signs. Other communities have tightened up their sign regulations in different ways. He stated that, if a new ordinance would be approved, anyone replacing the structure of the sign would need to do it in compliance with the new requirements.
Alderman Keefe noted the recommendations from the Planning Commission, which would eliminate the height requirement being recommended. Mr. Carmen noted that the current ordinance does have a size and height requirement with the maximum height of 40 feet and a limit of 900 square feet of sign area. Alderman Conroy noted that this was larger than a billboard. In response to a question from Alderman Austin, Mr. Carmen stated that, if approved, the ordinance would make references to the International Building Code, set up the same registration process for contractors of the building code, change the fee structure to be in compliance with the International Building Code, but the height and area location of the signs would stay as is in the current ordinance, and the majority of the definitions would remain the same.
Alderman Rockwell asked if staff knows the number of non-conforming signs that are out there, and Mr. Carmen responded they do not have an exact number, but there would probably be dozens of them. Alderman Rockwell noted the financial incentive discussed earlier by Mr. Carmen, and clarified that the maximum amount would be 50% of the sign replacement cost, not to exceed $2,500.00. He asked if staff was comfortable moving the signs to the Inspection Division, and Mr. Carmen responded that the Inspection Division issues contractor licenses, and would also be issuing these licenses. He noted that the two divisions work together on all building permits and would work together on the sign provisions as well.
Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he served on the Beautification Commission in the middle 1970’s. At that time, there were a number of signs in the downtown area that extended over the sidewalks. He referred to a student who conducted a type of survey on aesthetics in the City and two of the items he noted were the number of telephone poles in sidewalk concrete and overhanging signs. He stated that now most of the overhanging signs are removed. He noted that it takes initiative to get things done, and it takes time to make the community better and more aesthetically pleasing. He supported the staff’s recommendation. He noted a representative from Santa Barbara, California was in the audience to discuss the signage there.
Following discussion, Alderman White noted that she wanted to change her motion to include all of what the staff has presented. Alderman Keefe, who seconded the first motion, withdrew her second to the motion. Alderman Bauersfeld then seconded the motion made by Alderman White to change her motion to include all of what staff had recommended. Alderman White noted that she has visited other cities that are pleasing to look at where they have made changes in signs. She stated that Southwest Rock Island looks better sign-wise than the older areas of the city itself. She stated that there are areas where there are so many signs that it is difficult to find what you are looking for. Alderman Brooks indicated his support for the comments made by Alderman Bauersfeld, and stated that he would support the ordinance.
Alderman Austin stated that he agrees on the goal, but thinks they might be going at it too aggressively. He stated that he would like to see the signs remain until the business decides to change the sign, noting that many of these signs can cost up to $50,000.00. He stated that places like Pizza and Subs do not have any front yard to put the sign in, and they will create more visual clutter if each of the signs are monument signs. He noted that the visual clutter problems are signs and banners between two poles that are not supposed to be there in the first place. He suggested getting rid of the signs that are already illegally placed in areas.
Alderman Keefe stated that she agrees with the aesthetics, but does not agree with the ten-year amortization. She stated that she would like to see the ten years deleted, or extended to twenty years.
Alderman Conroy stated that there are non-conforming signs that exist currently, and asked if there were any non-conforming signs in Southwest Rock Island. Mr. Carmen noted that there are some trucking company signs that would be non-compliant. He added that there is difference between non-conforming signs and those that are illegal, adding that the illegal signs as defined in the current ordinance will not be changing. Alderman Rockwell stated that there were too many unknowns at this time – no idea of the cost and the impact on the business community – that would place an undue hardship on the businesses.
Mayor Schwiebert asked what other communities are doing, and Mr. Carmen responded that they are working on aesthetics. He stated that Davenport changed their requirements a few years ago and Moline changed theirs two years ago, but neither city required amortization.
Following further discussion, members of the audience were called on to speak. Joaquin Espejo, owner of Pizza and Subs, 3700 Blackhawk Road, stated that four years ago he remodeled his business and put up a new sign. He received a “Golden Broom” award for the appearance of his building and now was being told it was not beautiful anymore. He distributed copies of pictures approaching his business from both the east and west, and called attention to the view of the signs from either side.
Phillip Roe, owner of Roe Aquarium and Pet Company, 4422 11th Street, spoke against the ordinance. He stated that the signs are not causing problems to the health, safety or morality of the city, and lower signs would be easier to vandalize. He stated that everybody works hard to maintain his or her business here. He noted that Rock Island wants more retail, but this ordinance is like a slap in the face to those who have kept their business going.
Jerry Huiskamp, Blackhawk Bank, stated that, if this ordinance were to be approved, their time and temperature sign would not be in compliance. He noted that many people look at the sign, as indicated by the number of calls they receive when it is not working properly. He indicated that he is opposed to the proposed revision due to the burden it would create on existing businesses, specifically the time frame for replacement and the height limitations. He noted that Davenport has a 45-foot height limit and Moline has a 36-foot height limit.
Dave Requet, 34 Wildwood Drive, stated that he was opposed to the height amortization, stating that this is not California and there is snow here that sometimes could cover the signs when it is plowed. He stated that the temporary cardboard signs that are currently now allowed but are put up anyway are the ones that make the area look unattractive.
Mr. Requet suggested stronger enforcement of the current ordinance. He also referred to the regulation on un-covered garbage dumpsters being required at one time at his business, and now that same business under a different owner has dumpsters or garbage cans that are left standing uncovered and not fenced.
Carolyn Billeddo, 1426 34th Avenue, stated that some of the monument signs cannot be seen, and she asked that Council look at the concerns of the businesses. She stated that she likes to think that Council is trying to encourage small businesses, and asked Council to listen to them.
Jim Ash, 41 Wildwood Drive, stated that he loves living in Rock Island, having recently moved back here after living in Santa Barbara, California for 45 years. He stated that he was dismayed at the conditions he saw in Rock Island, and it didn’t look like the Rock Island he remembered, adding that it looks like an old city. He discussed the areas of change, specifically 11th Street and the downtown area. He stated that the sign ordinance changes need to be applied along Blackhawk Road also and this would be a beginning in part to revitalize Rock Island. He stated that the sign would have an immediate visual impact, adding that the size, color and height of the signs have nothing to do with attracting business. He stated that the newer parts of Bettendorf are prettier and they have a sign ordinance there. He stated that in Santa Barbara, there is a six-foot height limitation and there are no billboards, no plastics blowing in the wind and no neon signs. He encouraged Council to adopt the ordinance as part of the larger picture in changing the appearance of the city. Mayor Schwiebert noted that Rock Island is an old city and that is one of its charms.
Jerry Maniccia, part owner of Hardee’s on 38th Street, slated that they have only had to change their sign faces when they went from a Sandy’s to a Hardee’s, and when Hardee’s changed their image. He stated that he is not in favor of amortization or of the eight-foot height, noting that the eight-foot sign would be more easily vandalized. He noted that they currently have a twenty-five foot sign with a leader board to advertise specials. He asked if they would need to comply with the sign ordinance if they changed only the sign faces.
Jerry Howard, Quad Cities Kenworth Company, 3600 78th Avenue West, stated that at least 35% of their business is transient, and they use their sign as a marker for giving directions to find their location. He adding that, without the sign being visible, it would be difficult to find them.
Ryan Mosely, Harris Pizza, 3903 14th Avenue, stated that they recently remodeled, and refurbished the sign. He stated that the business has been a staple if Rock Island for 45 years and they have changed panels on the sign once. He stated that there is eight feet from the street to the building and it would be difficult for cars coming and going to find their place without the sign. He indicated that they get customers from other cities and use their sign as a marker in giving them directions to find them also. He stated that, with a shorter sign that could not be seen unless you were actually going by, prospective customers would be just as likely to keep on going to Moline. He stated that it cost him $18,000 to refurbish their sign, and replacement would cost even more. He stated that the airport has a monument sign that cannot be seen from the highway. He noted that this would be a financial burden to businesses that are already struggling, and asked that those who have illegal signs already be addressed.
Joe Dalton, Martin Equipment Company of IA-IL, 3720 85th Avenue West, spoke in opposition to the sign ordinance. He noted that they updated their sign when John Deere changed their logo at the cost of $50,000. He stated that their sign needs to be as high as it is to be seen from the Milan Beltway, and added that he concurs with the comments made by others.
Rose Espejo, owner of Pizza and Subs, spoke about the sign at Midwest Tools, which is now mostly covered by trees.
Tom Torrey, of Torrey Advertising, 930 28th Avenue, East Moline, spoke against the sign ordinance. He showed Council a recent article from the Wall Street Journal which indicated that there are areas that are now encouraging larger signs, such as in Arizona. He noted that the Rudy’s sign, which is a monument sign, is difficult to see when driving along 18th Avenue, and he added that states are changing laws. He added that it is not fair to take property without just compensation.
Jeff Reddig, 1419 38th Street, and co-owner of Hardee’s, stated that the lower signs in some locations could create a traffic hazard for vehicles entering and exiting the businesses.
Alderman Conroy stated that he likes the ordinance but is concerned about the cost to the businesses. He stated that he would like to move forward with this but feels that they cannot penalize those that already have signs. He suggested that there not be any amortization, and they be allowed to rebuild to the specifications of the signs they now have. He stated that a concern he has is the height, and also does not feel that nine hundred square feet should be allowed. He suggested eliminating the amortization, and further suggested that staff come up with a new size limitation – not the 40 foot height / 900 square foot. He noted that he agrees with Mr. Torrey that we should not take property without giving just compensation. He suggested that it go back to staff and have them come back with further suggestions.
Alderman Bauersfeld stated that the process of growth is sometimes difficult. He agreed to sent it back to staff for a Study Session for more discussion. He stated that he did not sense any urgency among members of the Council to get this done soon. Alderman Conroy made a motion to DEFER for two weeks. Since this would be a non-debatable motion, Mayor Schwiebert suggested that perhaps other Council members wished to speak at this time. There was no second to the motion to DEFER at this time.
Alderman Austin asked Alderman Conroy if he would be more comfortable with a recommendation rather than a requirement, and that the city partner with those who wish to change their signs. He further noted that there would be an appeal process built into the ordinance, and noted that Jumer’s Casino would probably want more than a monument sign for their new business location.
Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he would like to see the ordinance in its entirety be adopted but he did not sense any urgency on the part of other Council members. He noted that this is a step in the right direction and it is progress. He further stated that he agreed that more time is needed to study it and felt sure that they can come to a reasonable growth compromise.
Alderman Brooks stated that he agreed that this should be restudied. He noted that they are trying to beautify the city, but he did not want businesses to leave the city because they could not afford the sign.
Alderman Keefe and Alderman Rockwell agreed that further study on this issue is needed. Alderman Rockwell added that he would like to see information on the emphasis of the impact on those that this ordinance would be imposed upon.
Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Brooks to send this back to staff for further study, to find out what the other communities are doing as far as height and sign requirements, non-conforming signs and amortization provisions, and bring it back for a Study Session in three weeks, CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #19
4524 7 AVENUE/DEVINNEY
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from Donald Devinney for the parking lot at 4524 7th Avenue to be placed under City Ordinance control. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the request as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #20
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from the Public Works Department for a parking ban on the north side of 18th Avenue for 260 feet from the corner of 17th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the request as recommended and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #21
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from Brenda Turnbull and neighbors for STOP signs at the intersection of 22nd Street and 35th Avenue. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Brooks to allow the STOP sign and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #22
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from Brenda Turnbull and neighbors to consider a reduction in speed on 22nd Street between 34th and 35th Avenues. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to deny the request to post lower speed limit signs in this area CARRIED on a Voice vote. Alderman Conroy stated that he is in favor of STOP signs when requested by residents, but not changing the speed limits. Alderman White and others indicated that callers had indicated that they would not need the speed limit changed if they got the STOP signs.
Agenda Item #23
917 4 AVENUE/HANDICAPPED
PARKING REMOVED
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from the current resident for the removal of a handicapped parking space in front of 917 4th Avenue. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to approve the request and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #24
1317 14 STREET/HANDICAPPED
PARKING REMOVED
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from the current resident for the removal of a handicapped parking space in front of 1317 14th Street. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the request and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #25
The City Clerk read a Memorandum from Mayor Schwiebert recommending the appointment of Janice Berry to the City of Rock Island Adopt A Unit Liaison Committee. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Keefe to approve the appointment as recommended CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Items from the
City Manager’s Memorandum
City Manager John C. Phillips called attention to the information contained in the packet, including information about Multi-Family Residential Nonconforming Uses. Alderman Bauersfeld suggested that this be placed on a Study Session for further discussion.
Mr. Phillips also noted the information about the TIF/Special Service Area/Enterprise Zone Adoption Schedule from CED, the Burglary Information and Response report from RIPD, and asked Bob Hawes, Public Works Director, to come forward to discuss the Free Leaf Paper Bag Program for Fall Leaf Pick Up. Mr. Hawes indicated that the bags would be available at City Hall and Public Works during the workweek from 8 a.m. to 5 pm. and also at the yard waste drop off center at 1301 Mill Street. He indicated that residents need to provide a form of identification with their current address, and they are allowed a maximum of twenty-five bags at one time. He discussed the program, stating that plain paper bags can also be used and no stickers are required. Residents are asked to place these bags by their regular trash for pick up on their normal pick up day. In response to a question from Alderman Austin, Mr. Hawes indicated that acorns could also be included with the leaves.
Fire Chief Jerry Shirk reviewed the Leaf Burning Program, stating that Burn Days are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, adding that these days depend on the weather being acceptable for burning also. The recording is changed daily according to the weather, and encouraged residents to call 732-BURN to find out whether or not they can burn on any given day. Mr. Phillips noted that this information, along with a lot of other information including the Minutes and Agendas, is available on the City Website at www.rigov.org.
Mr. Phillips also called attention to the Public Works Open House to be held Saturday, October 23 from 9:30 a.m. to Noon. He noted that he passed out information about an upcoming bond sale and asked Council to review that information. Alderman Austin commented that the information from the Police Department regarding the burglaries indicated that a large number of them are non-forcible entries, and he encouraged residents to take precautions such as locking doors so it is not easy for someone to burglarize their houses or vehicles.
Mayor Schwiebert stated that he has received a notice that the City has again, for the fifteenth year, been awarded the Distinguished Budget Award. He indicated that Rock Island is the only city in the Illinois Quad Cities to have received this award for that long.
Mayor Schwiebert discussed the Goal Setting Session held over the past weekend with Council Members. He explained the process, noting that the Quad City Times had a very good article about this. He discussed the priorities set by Council at the Goal Setting Session, and noted that these priorities are given to staff to work on for the next year. He indicated that there is a lot of work to be done, but he has confidence that the staff can accomplish this again.
Mayor Schwiebert noted that there is a committee to select the auditors for the coming year, and Alderman Rockwell volunteered to serve on this committee.
Alderman Bauersfeld asked Mr. Hawes to check the northwest corner of 12th Street and 31st Avenue. He stated that the curb should be painted so cars don’t park there. He also distributed information to Council regarding “21 Tips for Longevity” that he received at the Illinois Municipal League Conference the previous weekend.
Alderman Bauersfeld then made an announcement that he will not be running for any office in the coming election. He explained his reasons, and stated that he will not disappear and intends to remain active in other areas. Council members and Mayor Schwiebert commended him for his leadership over the past years. He will serve through April of 2005.
Larry Hunter, 1725 6th Street, Rock Island, spoke about his attempts to help the less fortunate who live in public housing, and he spoke out about personnel at the Housing Authority. Mayor Schwiebert noted that the City does not hire the Housing Authority staff, but that the Housing Authority Board members hire them. He indicated that there have been many open meetings with the residents of Valley Homes explaining this process, and the plan is to have all of the current tenants placed in better housing by 2006. Alderman Conroy added that he knows one of the persons Mr. Hunter discussed. He indicated he thought very highly of her because she has been doing a good job.
A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to recess to Executive Session on matters of Litigation CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 9:50 p.m.
RECESS
Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 9:58 p.m. A motion made by Alderman Keefe and seconded by Alderman Brooks to recess to Monday, October 4 at 5:00 p.m. CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White, Keefe and Austin. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 10:00 p.m.
____________________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk