The Rock Island City Council met in Study Session at 5:00 p.m. in the Personnel Conference Room of Rock Island City Hall.  Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M.A. Brooks I., David Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Margie Mejia-Caraballo, Joy Murphy, and Charles O. Austin III. Also present were City Manager John Phillips, Community and Economic Development Department Director Greg Champagne, Chair of the Human Relations Commission Kai Swanson, Principal Dave Schreiber of Schreiber Anderson and Associates, Public Works Director Bob Hawes and Mike Thoms, President of Renaissance Rock Island.

 

HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION REPORT

 

City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Community and Economic Development Director Greg Champagne to highlight a few points on the memorandum that was included in the memo packet regarding the Human Relations Commission. Mr. Champagne stated that earlier this year, the Human Relations Commission was reactivated. Mr. Champagne introduced Kai Swanson, the Chair of the Human Relations Commission, and stated that Mr. Swanson would discuss several proposed changes to the Ordinance governing the Human Relations Commission’s activities.

 

Mr. Swanson addressed the Council and stated that the commission has been working very hard to strike a balance in creating a commission that is very meaningful. Mr. Swanson also explained that the Human Relations Commission’s main objectives would involve seeking to eliminate discrimination through education, negotiation and persuasion; develop programs to encourage economic opportunity and to advise Council on human relation matters.  

 

Alderman Austin stated that this commission is structured rather differently than various other Cities’ commissions. Mr. Swanson offered that one of the goals of this Human Relations Commission is to keep out of the legal process.

 

Mr. Swanson explained the process of the duties and powers of the commission stating that the primary duties of the commission would be to investigate and mediate complaints. Mr. Swanson offered that once a complaint is filed, the commission Chair (depending upon the nature of the complaint) would appoint three (3) commission members to serve as a grievance sub-committee. If it is found that the complaint is invalid then the complaint would be dismissed. If the complaint is found to be valid, the grievance sub-committee could consider it for further action, which may include mediation or referral to the full commission. Mr. Swanson noted that if mediation is warranted, both the complainant and respondent would be asked to attend. Also, if the mediation is not successful or if one of the parties does not attend the mediation session then the dispute would be placed on the Human Relations Commission Agenda for review and discussion, after which the commission may refer the complainant to an appropriate body to resolve the issue or for further discussion or action. Mr. Swanson also commented that if the mediation were deemed successful, no further action would be taken.

 

Alderman Pauley inquired to Mr. Swanson regarding the terms for committee members. Alderman Pauley also suggested terms could be limited.

 

Mr. Swanson offered that terms for the Human Relations Commission shall be appointed terms lasting for three years in which they could be eligible for re-appointment to a three-year term thereafter.

 

Mayor Schwiebert indicated that if terms were limited that would be a departure of how other Boards and Commissions throughtout the City are structured for terms. Mayor Schwiebert also noted that all other terms are open-ended. Mayor Schwiebert acknowledged that if Council wanted to follow in that direction for term limits, it is a judgment call that the Council could make. But, the trade off would be that experience would be lost due to an arbitrary limit.

 

Mayor Schwiebert thanked Mr. Swanson and the Human Relations Commission for sharing their suggestions, and stated that the next step would be to refer to the City Attorney to prepare the necessary amendments to the Ordinance to create this process. Mayor Schwiebert concluded that the amended Ordinance would then be brought before Council for approval.

 

 

ARMORY PARK PROPOSAL

 

City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Dave Schreiber of Schreiber Anderson and   Associates to explain the revised proposal for the preliminary design of Armory Park.  Mr. Schreiber stated that he wanted to clarify what the options would be for the design of Armory Park. Mr. Schreiber indicated that the work would be divided into two (2) major phases. The first phase deals with developing a No Armory Concept paired with an Armory silhouette teardrop concept. Mr. Schreiber then noted that Phase two warrants taking one of the two preferred concepts and developing a design development document, which will include the construction and permitting process.

 

Mr. Schreiber referred to the plans and noted that in phase one; it is a two (2) month process to work up design alternatives. Mr. Schreiber stated that in early February, they will be looking to Council with input and understanding for cost and operations for the two options along with the input from the public and stakeholders to come up with a preferred concept. Mr. Schreiber then stated that they will inquire upon Council for direction on what the preference is, based on the input received. And, from that point, there would be a focus on preparing the preliminary development plan.

 

Mr. Schreiber stated that phase two (2) would be an important step of refining design and design direction, and that would lead into the beginning of the initial phases of permitting. Mr. Schreiber pointed out that phase two would start at the beginning of February through mid May of 2008. After May, construction documents could be finalized, and from December 2008 through January of 2009, street bidding for construction could begin which aligns with the Casino’s schedule to vacate the site. 

Much discussion followed regarding the design concepts for the Armory, the cost, structural concepts and parking.  Several Council members favored keeping a portion of the Armory, while other Council members favored demolition.  Alderman Conroy had concerns with the cost for restoring the structure, and stated that he would not vote in favor of the Armory Park preliminary design and revised scope of services that was on the Agenda for Council’s approval tonight.

 

After more discussion on Army Park, City Manager John Phillips stated that the Capital Improvement Plan, Gaming Funds and TIF would be discussed next. Mr. Phillips noted that if time did not allow for covering the CIP or Gaming Funds, these items would be discussed in next week’s Study Session.

 

CIP-TIF

 

City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Community and Economic Development Department Director Greg Champagne to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2008/2009 expenditures for the City’s Tax Increment Finance Districts. Mr. Champagne noted that the City has five (5) TIF Districts, which include the Downtown, North 11th Street, South 11th Street, the Casino TIF and Columbia Park. Mr. Champagne offered that the Casino TIF District and Columbia Park TIF do not generate much revenue, are relatively new, and the budgeted expenditures are primarily in support administrative costs. 

 

Mr. Champagne stated that for the Downtown TIF projects, staff is proposing  $1,000.000.00 for design and  construction of  Armory Park; $50,000.00 to develop  a branding and marketing plan for the District; $25,000.00 for holiday lighting of areas in the Downtown; $200,000.00 for the Upper Floor Loft Housing program; $150,000.00 for the Downtown Façade Improvement Program, $400,000.00 for the McKesson Renovation; $135,000.00 for the ArtsPlan implementation; $50,000.00 for retail recruitment in the Downtown; $200,000.00 for Old Lincoln School for repairs, structural analysis, market review and further marketing or development incentives; $200,000.00 for the  Rocket Theatre HVAC system and handicapped accessibility; and $160,000.00 for infrastructure improvements. Mr. Champagne also stated that staff is proposing $200,000.00 for 24th Street and 1st Avenue Gateway; $100,000.00 for parking ramp repairs; $106,417.00 for landscaping Installation and maintenance at Centennial Bridge Plaza; $90,000.00 for the Children’s Garden project and $74,000.00 for Housing project rebates.

 

Mr. Champagne offered that the North 11th Street TIF District includes $75,000.00 for the Facade Improvement Program; $70,000.00 for New/Old Chicago Park and $60,000.00 for demolition of deteriorated structures.

 

Mr. Champagne noted that the South 11th Street TIF District includes $75,000.00 for the Façade Improvement Program; $225,000.00 for the purchase of property at 9th Street to support redevelopment of trailer park property, and infrastructure improvements of $125,000.00 to support redevelopment of trailer park property.

 

   Alderman Conroy inquired to Mr. Champagne as to how many projects for the Downtown TIF would be ongoing for the next several years. Mr. Champagne stated that several of the projects were one time projects including District branding and holiday lighting while others including Armory Park and landscaping, installation and maintenance at Centennial Bridge Plaza would be ongoing.

 

HARD HAT 2007

 

Time did not allow for the Capital Improvement Plan and Gaming Funds. City Manager John Phillips then inquired upon Mike Thoms, President of Renaissance Rock Island to update Council on the Hard Hat Annual Awards. Mr. Thoms distributed to Council invitations to the Annual Hard Hat Awards Presentation, which will be held on December 13, 2007 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at JTM Concepts at 420 23rd Street. Mr. Thoms stated that as in the past, there is the Mayor and City Council’s trophy for the most strategic new investment. Mr. Thoms then distributed a ballot for the City Council to vote on a nominated project. Council voted and turned in their ballot.  

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

A motion made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to adjourn the meeting carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p. m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

___________________________

                                                                                      Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Rock Island City Council met in regular session at 6:45 p.m. in the Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M.A. Brooks I, David Conroy, Dennis E. Pauley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Margie Mejia-Caraballo, Joy Murphy and Charles O. Austin III. City Manager John Phillips was also present.

 

Introductory Proceedings

 

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

 

Agenda Item #5

Minutes of the Meeting of November 19, 2007. 

 

A motion was made by Alderwoman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of November 19, 2007 as written. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #6

Presentation by the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau.

 

 

 Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon CEO and President Joe Taylor of the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau to step forward and give a presentation to everyone on the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau’s activities.

 

Mr. Taylor thanked the Council and City for their support of the Quad Cities   Convention and Visitors Bureau.  Mr. Taylor stated that it has been a busy year this year bringing visitors to the Quad Cities. Mr. Taylor made reference to the 2008 Visitors Guide and quarterly newsletter that was distributed to Council members.

 

Mr. Taylor mentioned several priorities that the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau have been working on regarding their destination audit concerning way finding, which is close to being completed. Mr. Taylor commented that they are working with MetroLink and other transportation entities regarding the circulation systems for visitors, and working on creating a single professional office for staff members. Mr. Taylor then introduced Ms. Pam Ellis who is Vice President of Visitor Services.

 

 Ms. Ellis stated that various tourists came to the Quad Cities this past year including; The Federation of Christian Ministries in which over 120 people made an economic impact to the community of $75,000.00; and the ASA 12 and under girl’s softball tournament in which this group brought over $2,000,000.00 economic impact to the Quad City Community. Ms. Ellis noted that Tourism is a big business.  

Ms. Ellis made reference to the bold and bright colors of the 2008 Visitors Guide, and stated that the guide is a great way to promote the community to people that are coming in from out of town. Ms. Ellis offered that this spring, beginning in March, we would see tourism commercials from the Chicago market. And, Ms. Ellis commented that they are also working with Destination Management Association International for the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau to become accredited through that organization.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired as to how the visitor’s guides would be distributed. Mr. Taylor stated that anyone could call the toll free number or visit their website and request information. The information the visitor would receive would be the guide. Mr. Taylor stated that any convention or group meeting on site in the Quad Cities would be handed the guide as an onsite piece. Mr. Taylor also mentioned that the guide would be distributed at visitor centers and welcome centers.

 

Mayor Schwiebert thanked Mr. Taylor and Ms. Ellis for their presentation on the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau.

                                                                                  

Agenda Item #7

Presentation to the winner of the 2007 Snow “Roadeo”.

 

Mayor Schwiebert and Public Works Director Bob Hawes approached the podium to present Jeff Muhlenburg with an award for being the 2007 Snow “Roadeo” winner.  Mr. Hawes stated that Mr. Muhlenburg has been with Public Works for 16 years; he started as an auto mechanic and then switched to an equipment operator. Mr. Hawes noted that Mr. Muhlenburg is a three (3) time winner.

 

Mr. Hawes explained that the Snow “Roadeo” is part of the Public Works Department’s annual fall snow training. Mr. Hawes stated that during the fall months, the City of Moline’s Public Works Department joins with the City of Rock Island’s Public Works Department, and drivers are given a written test, safety test, and an obstacle course driving test. Scores are then tallied and a winner is announced. After Mr. Hawes’ comments, he presented Jeff Muhlenburg with a plaque, and the Mayor, Mr. Hawes and Mr. Muhlenburg had their pictures taken.

 

Agenda Item #8

Proclamation declaring the month of December as Drunk and Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month.

 

Mayor Schwiebert made reference to the Proclamation declaring the month of December as Drunk and Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month, and stated that  everyone should be  careful this holiday season.

 

Agenda Item #9

Public Hearing on a request from Andrew Diaz for a waiver of the signature requirement to secure a Liquor License (Rio Rapids LLC) at 121 Arts Alley.

 

Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 6:57 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a request from Andrew Diaz for a waiver of the signature requirement to secure a Liquor License (Rio Rapids) at 121 Arts Alley.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon Mr. Andrew Diaz to step forward and state his name and address.

 

Mr. Andrew Diaz of 2050 North 109th Avenue in Avondale, Arizona stated that he was at the Public Hearing in regards to a new restaurant he would like to open at 121 Arts Alley. Mr. Diaz offered that the new Rio Rapids restaurant and bar would be a California theme type restaurant atmosphere with healthy food (fruits and vegetables), and a fun environment. Mr. Diaz also commented that he plans to display paintings from local artists in Rio Rapids.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired to Mr. Diaz as to what type of alcohol would be served. Mr. Diaz responded that all types would be served, and noted that it would be approximately 60/40 food and 60/40 alcohol.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired to Mr. Diaz as to what drew him to Rock Island. Mr. Diaz stated that his best friend grew up in Rock Island, and has worked in the Quad Cities restaurant business.

 

Mayor Schwiebert then inquired to Mr. Diaz as to who would be running the restaurant. Mr. Diaz responded that his mother would manage the restaurant. Mayor Schwiebert welcomed Mr. Diaz to the community.  

 

Alderwoman Murphy inquired to Mr. Diaz as to what the hours would be for Rio Rapids. Mr. Diaz stated that the hours of operation would be from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. seven (7) days a week. Mr. Diaz added that Rio Rapids will offer a huge lunch buffet with all types of healthy food, and from 12:00 a.m. until 3:00 a.m. appetizers would be served.

 

Alderman Conroy inquired to Mr. Diaz if he was aware of the added security payment for extended hours. Mr. Diaz responded yes.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired if there was anyone who wished to speak in favor of the waiver of signature requirement for a Liquor License at 121 Arts Alley. With no one  stepping forward, Mayor Schwiebert inquired if there was anyone that wished to speak in opposition to the waiver of signature requirement for a Liquor License at 121 Arts Alley.

 

       With no persons present to speak in favor of, or in opposition to the waiver of signature requirement for a Liquor License at 121 Arts Alley, Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:01 p.m.

 

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman  Murphy to recommend to the Mayor/Liquor Commissioner to waive the signature requirement for Andrew Diaz to secure a Liquor license at 121 Arts Alley. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #10

Public Hearing on a request from Andrew Bebon to amend an approved Special Use Permit for an insurance office to change the business owners name from Jessie James to his name, and to change the business hours at 4543 18th Avenue.

 

Mayor Schwiebert closed the regular meeting at 7:02 p.m. and opened a Public Hearing on a request from Andrew Bebon to amend an approved Special Use Permit for an insurance office to change the business owners name from Jessie James to his name, and to change the business hours at 4543 18th Avenue.

 

Mayor Schwiebert swore in Mr. Bebon.

 

 Mr. Andrew Bebon of 4543 18th Avenue addressed the Council and stated that a Special Use Permit has been in effect for some time for State Farm Agent Jessie James. It was noted that that Mr. James would be retiring, and State Farm has hired Mr. Bebon to take over the agency. Mr. Bebon offered that he would like to keep the agency at its present location for the convenience of the clients that have been coming to that location for years. Mr. Bebon indicated there was a slight change regarding the hours of operation; hours would be reduced from the approved 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday to 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday. 

 

Mr. Bebon also stated that there was an issue with the sign for the location. Currently, the existing 3’ by 5’ unlit sign panel is the correct measurements. But, the support system for the sign enlarges it to be approximately 42” by 66’’.  Mr. Bebon offered that State Farm also stipulates that a sign must be a certain size. Mr. Bebon indicated that he wanted to make the sign 38” by 72”, which would make the sign shorter in height but longer in length.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired to Mr. Bebon if the sign was out of the public right of way. Mr. Bebon responded that the sign was off of the right of way.

 

Mayor Schwiebert then inquired to Mr. Bebon that as a second condition of the recommendation, he would like approval for a freestanding unlit 38” by 72” sign at that location.

 

Mr. Bebon responded yes.

 

Mayor Schwiebert inquired as to whether anyone wished to step forward in favor of the application. With no one stepping forward, Mayor Schwiebert inquired as to whether there was anyone that wished to step forward in opposition to the application.  

 

With no other persons wishing to speak in favor of, or in opposition to the Special Use Permit application, Mayor Schwiebert closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:06 p.m.

 

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the request for an amendment to an approved Special Use Permit at 4543 18th Avenue as recommended; subject to the hours of operation be limited to 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, and one freestanding unlit 38” by 72” sign be allowed.  The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #11

A Special Ordinance amending Special Ordinance No. 99-56 granting a Special Use          Permit for 2035 9th Street.

 

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderwoman Murphy seconded to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance amending Special Ordinance No. 99-56 granting a Special Use Permit for 2035 9th Street. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #12

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding three (3) Special Ordinances for the Annexation, Rezoning and Disconnection of property located at 41 Wildwood Drive.

 

a.       A Special Ordinance annexing property located at 41 Wildwood Drive.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance annexing property located at 41 Wildwood Drive. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

b.      A Special Ordinance amending a zoning district and zoning map from an R-1 (one family residence) district to an R-2 (one family residence) district at 41 Wildwood Drive.

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo moved and Alderman Austin seconded to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance amending a zoning district and zoning map from an R-1 (one family residence) district to an R-2 (one family residence) district at 41 Wildwood Drive. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

c.       A Special Ordinance disconnecting property (part of lot 7 in Wildwood Eighth Addition) at 41 Wildwood Drive.

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance disconnecting property (part of lot 7 in Wildwood Eighth Addition) at 41 Wildwood Drive. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #13

CLAIMS

 

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

 

a.       Report from the Finance Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,800.00 to Timothy W. Sharpe for April 1, 2007 actuarial valuation services.

 

b.      Report from the Personnel Department regarding payment in the amount of $6,046.17 to Konecky, Koenig, Kutsunis and Weng for legal services rendered for November 2007.

 

c.       Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #3 and final in the amount of $70,622.32 to Walter D. Laud Inc. for 32nd Avenue Reconstruction of 12th to 14th Streets. (316)

 

d.      Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,985.50 to Harlan King for demolition reimbursement of a two-story structure at 522 27th Street. 

 

Agenda Item #14

 

 
Claims for the weeks of November 16 through November 29 in the amount of $1,162,485.98.

 

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

 

Agenda Item #15

Payroll for the weeks of November 5 through November 18 in the amount of $1,093,097.18.

 

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

 

Agenda Item #16

Report from the Information Technology Services Department regarding the purchase of Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 licenses from CDW Government in the amount of $25,299.08.

 

Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Tollenaer seconded to approve the purchase and authorize payment as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #17

Report from the Public Works Department regarding the purchase of three (3) Ford Escape Hybrids from the state contract and twenty-one (21) Honda Civic Hybrids from Zimmerman Cars.

 

It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the purchase of three (3) Ford Escape Hybrids, and authorize Staff to negotiate the purchase of twenty-one (21) Honda Civic Hybrids as recommended.

 

Discussion followed with Alderman Conroy inquiring upon Public Works Director Bob Hawes as to how much more the hybrid vehicles would cost.

 

Mr. Hawes stated that on an annual basis, the hybrids would cost approximately $7,500.00 more per year. Mr. Hawes also noted that the Fleet Budget is approaching three (3) million dollars a year in total operations, and the initial cost may be $150,000.00 more.

 

Alderman Conroy then inquired to Mr. Hawes as to many miles are put on the City’s vehicles, and how many years are the vehicles kept in operation.

 

Mr. Hawes stated that approximately 7,000 miles are put on the vehicles per year, and the vehicles are kept in operation for ten (10) years.    

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

 

Agenda Item #18

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding bids for furnaces, ductwork and air conditioning for the DeSoto Arts Building, recommending the bid be awarded to Crawford Company in the amount of $21,900.00.

 

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

 

Agenda Item #19

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the Downtown Riverfront Armory Park Preliminary Design revised services agreement with Schreiber Anderson and Associates, recommending an amount not to exceed $345,203.00 plus $14,200.00 in reimbursable expenses.

 

It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to approve the agreement 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 Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, Alderman Conroy.

 

Note: Agenda Item #19 was deferred from Monday, November 19, 2007 Council Meeting.

 

Agenda Item #20

Report from the Finance Department regarding modifications to the Fiscal Year 2008 Budget.

 

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Pauley seconded to approve the changes to the Fiscal Year 2008 Budget as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #21

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding an extension of commitment with KJWW Engineering, recommending an extension of the City’s commitment to cover one-half of the demolition costs in an amount not to exceed $52,500.00 for the property at 2607 7th Street.

 

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderman Pauley to approve the extension of commitment as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #22

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding Rock Island’s share of matching funds in the amount of $3,000.00 for the Joint Metropolitan Rail Study.

 

Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo moved and Alderwoman Murphy seconded to approve the expenditure of funds as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #23

Report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request for installation of residential parking (Type A) on 37th Street between 11th and 12th Avenues.

 

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

 

Agenda Item #24

Items from the City Manager’s Memorandum Packet.

 

City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Public Works Director Bob Hawes to share the good news regarding the new Curbside Recycling Program.

 

Mr. Hawes stated that as of today, the City has 1,580 customers who have signed up for the Curbside Recycling Program. Mr. Hawes noted that more subscriptions are coming in. Mr. Hawes offered that staff met with Midland-Davis today, and received a draft contract for review. It was also noted that staff would bring the contract to Council on either December 10, 2007 or December 17, 2007 for approval. Mr. Hawes then indicated that the cart supplier has been contacted, and they stated that if the carts are purchased in December, the City will receive them in February. The Curbside Recycling Program would begin during the first week of April 2007. 

 

City Manager Phillips thanked Mr. Hawes and his staff for their teamwork in creating this new program. Mr. Phillips also thanked the volunteers and the community.

 

Alderman Tollenaer thanked Mr. Hawes and his crew at Public Works for the great performance this past Saturday regarding the streets and bad weather.

 

Alderman Brooks stated that he had witnessed individuals speeding on or near 15th Avenue, and offered that several individuals were almost struck by those speeding vehicles. Alderman Brooks wanted the Police Chief to be aware of those speeding vehicles. 

 

Agenda Item #25

Other Business

 

None

 

 Agenda Item #26

Executive Session on Personnel and Litigation.

 

A motion was made by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo at 7:24 p.m. to recess to Executive Session on matters of Personnel and Litigation. The motion carried on a roll call vote. Those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none. 

 

Agenda Item #27

Recess

 

Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 7:31 p.m. A motion was made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo to recess to Monday, December 10, 2007 at 5:00 p.m. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy, and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

 The meeting was recessed at 7:32 p.m.

 

 

 

           

 

 

____________________________________

                                                                      Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk