The Rock Island City Council met in reconvened session for Study Session on Monday, October 25, 2004 at 5:00 p.m. in the Personnel Conference Room of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, David A. Conroy, John E. Bauersfeld, Jr., Dan Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White and Charles "Chuck" O. Austin. Alderman Ann Keefe was absent. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips, Finance Director Bill Scott, Community and Economic Development Department Greg Champagne, Planning Administrator Alan Carmen and Urban Planner Alan Fries. Others present included Actuary Timothy Sharpe.
Timothy Sharpe, Actuary, reviewed the Fire and Police Pension Fund Reports. He noted that the investment returns this year have been excellent – 17.02% for Fire and 13.62% for Police. He stated that the fund grew more last year than in the last three years combined. He noted that the tax levy increase for the Fire and Police Pension funds for the coming budget year will be almost flat also. He discussed the Bill that was presented to the Legislature, and stated that the impact on Rock Island will be very limited. He stated that next years report will quantify any additions that may arise as a result of this bill, but noted that he did not expect them to be very notable.
SIGN
ORDINANCE
Alan Carmen, Planning Administrator, reviewed the comparisons to other Quad City communities. He noted that some are more restrictive than what staff was proposing and some are less restrictive. He stated that the amortization would have an impact on existing businesses. He stated that no other city has required a phase out of existing signs, and with the number of comments and amount of input they have had, he stated that this would be beyond what would be compatible for businesses in the area.
He discussed the proposed height of the signs, noting that the height would vary depending on the area they were in – neighborhood areas would have shorter signs while highway locations would have higher signs. He stated that they are now recommending that the amortization or phase-out requirement be eliminated, and he described several things that would trigger existing signs to come into conformance with the new ordinance. He added that staff would look at each request as it came in, with the intent to maintain the integrity of the ordinance.
He discussed the temporary signs that are illegal under the current ordinance and will continue to be illegal under the new ordinance. He described these as the unattached signs that are held up by posts with canvas or plastic used for the sign itself. He noted that these are enforced primarily on a complaint basis, and once they contact the owner, they generally comply. He added, however, that after awhile, sometimes the owner again attempts to use the same type of sign in the same location. He discussed the SBC sign that was attached to the building, and noted that this was allowed for a limited time period, with a size variance. He added that they will continue to enforce this by complaint and periodic area checks.
Mr. Carmen noted that the maximum height for a neighborhood sign would be 15 feet, B-1 and B-2 zones would be 15 feet, B-3 zone would be 20 feet, and B-4 and Industrial would be 25 feet maximum. These heights compare to a current maximum of 40 feet.
Mr. Carmen stated that the current businesses can maintain their signs with no amortization, and if the sign is damaged at more than 50% of its replacement value, they would be able to go to the Board of Zoning Appeals to request a variance to keep the same size signs as they have now.
The next issue was the maximum size of the face of the sign. Mr. Carmen stated that the size again would depend on the zone – B-1 maximum size would be 250 square feet, B-2 would be 500 square feet, B-3 would be 500 square feet and I-I would be 500 square feet. He noted that the majority of billboards are currently about 300 square feet.
Alderman Austin asked if there was still going to be money available for those who wish to comply, and Mr. Carmen responded that the Façade Program would apply to new signs, remodeling, which could include new signs, and damaged property. He noted that there is a 25% maximum amount for non-retail and a 50% maximum amount for retail businesses.
Chris Ellsberg, State Farm Insurance Agent, spoke about the three locations in Rock Island she has had her business. She noted that on 18th Avenue, the sign on the building was sideways, and difficult to see from the street. At the second location, she had a monument sign, which created vandalism problems. She stated that the monument signs under 8 feet would be a target for spray paint, rocks, as well as vehicle accidents and snow plows. She indicated that her current sign is higher and is noticeable to those driving on 11th Street. She asked that council allow the businesses to make their choice as to the type of sign that will work for them. She noted that everyone is not a clone and everyone has different preferences and should be allowed to put up the type of sign they want for their business. She added that insurance for signs can be as high as $1000.00, and with claims, the rates increase. Once a client has a number of claims, they would be unable to get insurance for the sign. She related that the Hilltop Business Association had a beautiful design for a monument sign, but were told by Sgt. Ortiz that this would cause a traffic hazard. They then decided on the current higher sign on posts.
Mike Bell, of American Bank, spoke as a member of the banking community. He noted that signs contribute to drive through impulse purchases in many instances. He noted that the marquee signs are attracting customers at places like Hardee’s, Walgreen’s, etc. which advertise daily or weekly specials. This invites customers into the store who might just be driving by. Arthur’s Garden Deli owner spoke also in favor of the “reader board” as being an important part of their business on Blackhawk Road.
Rose and Joaquin Espejo, owners of Pizza and Subs, spoke about looking at the future in making these decisions. Mr. Espejo noted that he may not be around in ten years, but someone else will be. He stated that too much government could be bad sometimes. He asked that Council also consider new businesses that might want to locate here, without placing an extra burden on them.
Mayor Schwiebert stated that they were trying to safeguard against tacky signs. He stated that some are not attractive and not well kept. He stated that it is up to the Council to balance the right of the business people to do what they want to do, with the need to keep the city looking good. Ms. Ellsberg asked that the current ordinance be enforced more, to keep the unattractive signs down. She stated that the current guidelines and ordinances are not being enforced, and that is part of the reason for the way the city looks now.
Jerry Minicki, co-owner of Hardee’s, asked about the impact of the sign ordinance on a business sale. Mr. Carmen stated that if the sign is non-conforming currently, and the new owner does not want to make it larger or taller, the non-conformity remains, allowing the face of the sign to be changed to accommodate the new business. He noted that the city couldn’t regulate content or appearance, as there are constitutional issues that regulate this. Jim Huiskamp read a statement arguing for the rights of the smaller businesses. Jerry Huiskamp noted that he has seen signs in Moline and in Davenport that are higher than the specific maximum height for these cities included in the report. Doug Jarvis of Acme Signs stated that Bettendorf has a 75-foot maximum, but the signs on I-80 are higher. He noted that signs along interstates are different. Tom Torrey of Torrey Advertising stated that signs are here to bring in business. It was suggested that staff use business people for studies like this rather than consultants, stating that consultants do not know what the business people do.
Due to the time factor, Mayor Schwiebert suggested that the staff get direction from Council following further discussion at the end of the Agenda for the regular meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman White to adjourn the meeting CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Austin. NAYS: None.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
_________________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk
The Rock Island City Council met in regular session at 6:45 p.m. on Monday, October 25, 2004 in the Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, David A. Conroy, John E. Bauersfeld, Jr., Dan Rockwell, Evelyn "Evie" R. White and Charles "Chuck" O. Austin. Alderman Ann Keefe was absent.
Mayor Schwiebert called the meeting to order and lead in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderman Austin gave the Invocation. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman White to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of October 18, 2004 as printed CARRIED on a Voice vote.
PRESENTATIONS
Agenda Item #6
EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION AWARD/CARLOS JIMENEZ
Mayor Schwiebert and City Manager John C. Phillips presented the Employee Recognition Award to Carlos Jimenez, of the Martin Luther King Community Center. Mr. Phillips noted a number of programs that Mr. Jimenez has been instrumental in bringing to the King Center and to the schools.
PUBLIC HEARING
Agenda Item #7
2626 7 AVENUE/SPECIAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT
Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 6:55 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a request from Y Thanh Nyguen for an amendment to the Special Use Permit at 2626 7th Avenue.
Y Thanh Nyguen spoke to Council about his plans for the extension to the building with a roof so he can work on vehicles under the cover of the roof. He agreed with the stipulations read by the Mayor as recommended by staff. Alderman White noted that she visited with him and stated that this will enhance the outside of this building, and commended him on what he has already done with the building. She added that the neighbors she spoke with are also in favor of this being granted. Alderman Bauersfeld commended him on the work he has done at both locations.
There being nobody else to speak in favor, and nobody present in opposition, Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m.. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to approve the amendment with the stipulations stated, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance, CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #8
RETIREMENT FACILITY REVENUE
BONDS
The
City Clerk read an Ordinance authorizing the issuance and sale of Retirement
Facility Revenue Bonds (Friendship Manor Project) Series 2004 of the City of
Rock Island in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $7,500,000, and
authorizing the execution and delivery of a loan agreement, a mortgage and
security agreement, in indenture of trust, a bond purchase agreement and
related documents, and authorizing the distribution of a preliminary official
statement and an official statement. A
motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Austin to consider,
suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld,
Rockwell, White and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #9
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance repealing the Ordinance establishing delivery of beer and wine at the martin Luther King Center. A motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman White to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Austin. NAYS: None.
CLAIMS
Agenda Item #10a
MES-GLOBAL FIRE EQUIPMENT/SCBA
The City Clerk read a report from the Fire Department recommending payment to MES-Global Fire Equipment in the amount of $9,708.60 for the SCBA and related equipment.
Agenda Item #10b
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to ROCAL, Inc. in the amount of $3,142.80 for the purchase of signs and post caps.
Agenda Item #10c
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Triad Engineering in the amount of $1,238.50 for professional services related to the Water and Sewer Extension to Turkey Hollow Road.
Agenda Item #10d
McCARTHY IMPROVEMENT
COMPANY/17 STREET RESURFACING
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to McCarthy Improvement Company in the amount of $304,601.31 for the 17th Street Resurfacing.
Agenda Item #10e
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Walter D. Laud in the amount of $101,445.66 for the 44th Street Reconstruction.
Agenda Item #10d
The City Clerk read a report from the Personnel Department recommending payment to Paper 101 in the amount of $4,280.00 for copier paper.
Alderman Bauersfeld asked for an update on 17th Street, and Public Works Director Bob Hawes responded that on a dollar basis, they are over one half done. He stated that next week they plan to put down the first layer of asphalt on the left side, with the west side to be done next. They plan to be done in 2004. Mayor Schwiebert noted that there is a leak at 35th Avenue and 17th Street, and Mr. Hawes responded that it would be fixed when they are working on that side of the street. He added that they would have to close off that side of the street to work on this leak and cannot close off both sides at the same time.
A motion made by Alderman Rockwell and seconded by Alderman White to accept the reports and authorize payments as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #11
OCTOBER 15 THROUGH 21
The City Clerk read the claims for the week of October 15 through 21 in the amount of $676,493.93. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Conroy to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Rockwell, White and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #12
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the City Hall Asbestos Removal, recommending the bid of Active Thermal Concepts in the amount of $14,688.00. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Conroy 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 and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #13
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding an agreement with Missman Stanley and Associates for engineering services during the construction phase of the American Discovery Trail Project in the amount of $121,437.00. Alderman Conroy noted that this has been a long time coming, and it is good to have it this far. It was noted that the money will come back to the City, and the City is acting as the pay agent. Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman Conroy and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the agreement 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 and Austin. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #14
PERMISSION TO APPLY - SPECIAL
USE PERMIT/1123 16 AVENUE
Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding a request from Elex Roberts, Jr. for permission to apply for a Special Use Permit to operate a commercial building and adjacent residence at 1123 16th Avenue. A motion made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman Conroy to allow Mr. Roberts to apply for the Special Use Permit CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #15
4600 46 AVENUE/PRIVATE PARKING
LOT
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from Norm Hoover of Local Union 25 for their parking lot at 4600 46th Avenue to be placed under City Ordinance control. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman White to approve the request and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Agenda Item #16
The City Clerk read a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from Tom Phillis and neighbors for “No Parking, Standing or Stopping” signs to be installed on both sides of 35th Street south of 38th Avenue for 30 feet to be effective during school hours. 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 #17
4630 11 STREET/SOUND
AMPLIFICATION
The City Clerk read a report from the City Clerk regarding a Sound Amplification application for November 5 from 7:00 p.m. to Midnight at 4630 11th Street. A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Rockwell to approve the Sound Amplification Permit CARRIED on a Voice vote.
Finance Director Bill Scott reviewed the September 2008 Management Report. He noted that he majority of funds are at 50% and that is where they should be at this time of year. He stated that he tax revenues were over budget, and there appears that there may be a surplus at the end of the year. He noted that the Utility Tax is questionable and they are looking at this as they prepare the budget for the coming year.
Alderman Bauersfeld noted that the Pension Actuary reported to the Council during the Study Session and things do not look as bleak as they did in the past year. He noted also that several people he has talked with discuss their property taxes, noting that one person commented that his has doubled in the last ten years. He requested information as to what other communities are doing to hold it down, and a nominal comparison with other taxing bodies in comparison to other cities. Council also discussed taxes and state and federal mandates.
City Manager John Phillips commended Public Works Director Bob Hawes for the Public Works Open House held Saturday. He noted that a lot of work goes into this and it will well attended and good for the public to see what Public Works does.
Mayor Schwiebert noted that there were several organizations involved in the Adopt A Highway Project who were recognized and awarded certificates at this event, and he discussed the alternatives to storm water run off that were on display.
FRIGHT NIGHT
Park and Recreation Director Bill Nelson discussed the Fright Night in the District, to be held Thursday, October 28 at 5:00 p.m. He noted that a number of different agencies were sponsoring this and were involved in the variety of programs for the event. Registration for the costume contest was at 5:00 p.m. He also asked for volunteers to judge the costume contest, noting that they need about fourteen judges. He stated that they expect about 500 children in this contest this year. He also discussed the activities that will be taking place there from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for families to enjoy. Alderman Bauersfeld volunteered to be a judge for the event. Alderman White commended Mr. Nelson on the various uses of Longview Park this past year.
Alderman Bauersfeld called attention to the notice regarding the Northwest Municipal League Meeting to be held Wednesday, November 10 at the Quad City Botanical Center. He indicated that Kenneth Alderson, Executive Director of the Illinois Municipal League will be the featured speaker and encouraged other Council members to attend this event.
ADOPT A UNIT
Mayor Schwiebert discussed the event held Friday evening at the VFW Post 1303 for the young men and women in the National Guard who will be leaving shortly for Iraq. He commended the VFW for hosting the event at no cost and also participated in the program. He noted that they also provided calling cards for these young men and women to take with them so they can make their phone calls when they want from wherever they are. He noted that Congressman Lane Evans, Senator Denny Jacobs and Representative Pat Verschoore were present for the program. Alderman Rockwell invited members of the audience to drop by the Office of the City Clerk to add their name to the pocket flags and pocket prayers that will be given to the unit members.
SIGN ORDINANCE
Mayor Schwiebert noted that the staff and Council had discussed the Sign Ordinance proposals at Study Session earlier and time did not allow for the completion of the discussion. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he took notes, and reviewed the items he had written down: the elimination of the amortization requirement, do something based on zoning district for the sign height regulating sign height according to the zoning district, maximum total signage to be based on the size of the building, have an economic incentive for change to become conforming, and to take the non-conforming signs and use the outline on page 4 of the report regarding reconstruction and replacement value. Alderman Rockwell also noted the discussion on the enforcement of existing ordinance regarding the portable signs. Alderman Conroy stated that one thing he recalled was the height discussion, and the three various heights according to the zoning district. Alderman Austin noted that it was stated that only 4% of our current signs would be conforming, and asked what the percentage would be with the revisions discussed. Alderman Brooks noted that it was also suggested that a meeting be convened including businesspersons, sign businesses, Council members and staff to discuss these issues.
A report will come back to Council from staff regarding the impact of these revisions. The report will be read in two weeks, and present it as a draft ordinance. He stated that, if the ordinance was acceptable, it would be adopted at that time. The City Manager suggested that sometimes a report is presented by staff with guidelines, and a motion to refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance. Council decided to have the report first, and then refer for an ordinance.
RECESS
A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman White to recess to Monday, November 1, 2004 CARRIED on a Voice vote.
The Meeting was recessed at 7:45 p.m.
_______________________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk