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, Principal Dave Schreiber of Schreiber Anderson Associates, Bruce Morrow of Schreiber Anderson Associates and Jeff Dismer of Gere/Dismer Architects.  

 

ARMORY PARK DESIGN CONCEPTS

 

City Manager John Phillips inquired upon Dave Schreiber of Schreiber Anderson and Associates to explain the Armory Park design concepts. Mr. Schreiber presented two (2) concepts and six (6) options for Council to review. Mr. Schreiber stated that the most important goal would be two choose two options that Council would like to see for further direction. The first concept Mr. Schreiber presented to Council was the Armory Silhouette Teardrop in which three (3) Armory stage selection schemes were presented. Mr. Schreiber discussed various elements in the first scheme, which included; a back stage area that was added to provide flexibility for different uses; appropriate flood protection; and retention of the eastern end of the structure using the existing columns to support interwoven aluminum trusses over the lawn. The second scheme Mr. Schreiber offered was an all new construction of the shelter (stage) in which there would still be a back stage area, a main lawn area, roof elements and various other elements. Mr. Schreiber noted that scheme three (3) echoes no formal stage and more of a plaza type space with a massive arch rising east to west with the river as a backdrop.

 

Mr. Schreiber then explained the costs concerning the three proposed silhouette schemes. It was noted that the square footage costs remained basically the same; the change was in the different amounts of the square footage areas. Mr. Schreiber offered that for scheme one (1) in which the existing Armory wall and stage would be renovated, the cost would be approximately $2,518.158.00. An underground basement space would be included in the cost, and the entire area would include 10,000 square feet of space. Scheme two (2) would be the most expensive with a cost of $2,969.672.00 and 19,210 square feet of building and basement space. The last scheme for the Silhouette Teardrop concept would be approximately 12,550 square foot with a cost of $2, 479.794.00.

 

 Discussion followed regarding cost, the issue of parking and the design features.  After discussion from Council, Mr. Schreiber presented three options for the No Armory Concept, one of which was the Bridge concept. This concept designated the complete removal of the Armory with an oval lawn, boardwalks, interactive water features and other elements. The second concept is called the Arc, in which there is a performance area, parking to the west, a water feature and various other elements. Members from Modern Woodman and Council discussed various questions regarding the parking issue. After discussion, Mr. Schreiber presented the Eyebrow concept, which was the last Armory concept to be discussed. This option reaches the largest capacity for parking.

 

After the presentation ended, Mr. Schreiber inquired to Council for discussion on a decision for two (2) favored choices of the six (6) options. Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert stating that  he would encourage Council to look at scheme one (1) of the Armory Teardrop Silhouette concept with a reconfigured structure that models itself after the outline of the Armory without the monolith on the back. Mayor Schwiebert was concerned with a high elevated area on the river front being an obstacle to people walking along the street. Mayor Schwiebert stated that he preferred the elevation of scheme two (2), but more along the lines of scheme one (1) with construction on a smaller scale.

 

After some discussion on this scheme, Council decided that one choice would be a modified scheme two (2) focusing on a stage area with a one story space that was open with no columns. It would be more of a scaled down Armory shaped pavilion.

 

After more discussion regarding the no Armory options, it was agreed that the Arc option, which includes a smaller stage along the river area, and more of a western elevation so that people would be able to see the river would be the second choice.

 

It is noted that after discussion on the Armory Concept Designs, time ran out, and Council was unable to discuss Retail Strategy.

 

 ADJOURNMENT

 

A motion made by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo and seconded by Alderman Austin 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 6:42 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 December 10, 2007. 

 

A motion was made by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of December 10, 2007 as written. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No, none.

 

Agenda Item #6

A Special Ordinance providing for the sale of property of the East forty-five (45) feet of Lots seven (7) and eight (8) in J.W. Dennison’s Subdivision.

 

It was moved by Alderman Austin, seconded by Alderwoman  Murphy to consider, suspend the rules, and pass the Ordinance providing for the sale of property of the East forty-five (45) feet of  Lots seven (7) and eight (8) in J.W. Dennison’s Subdivision. 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 #7

CLAIMS

 

It was moved by Alderman Conroy seconded by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo 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 Personnel Department regarding payment in the amount of $74,927.91 to Russell Thomas and Attorney John Westensee (Crawford & Company) for Workers Compensation Settlement.

 

b.      Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $2,606.00 to Eagle Printing Company for annual purchase of business cards, letterhead and envelopes. (315)

 

c.       Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #3 and Final in the amount of $14,887.56 to General Constructors Inc. for the 2007 Gateway Improvements.) (317)

 

d.      Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $3,528.00 to Tim Ridder for the building of two (2) rain gardens through the Rain Gardens for Rock Island Program. (318)

 

e.       Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $382,456.77 to the Treasurer of the State of Illinois for the City’s share of the 85th Avenue West Reconstruction Project. (322)

 

f.       Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #5 and Final in the amount of $181,008.06 to Walter D. Laud Inc. for 25th Avenue paving of 5th to 7th Streets. (325)

 

g.      Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #2 in the amount of $120,804.90 to Sterling Commercial Roofing Company for roof replacements and repairs. (326)

 

h.      Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #1 and Final in the amount of $66,091.00 to Valley Construction for the 2007 Asphalt Street Milling and Patching Program. (327)

 

i.        Report from the Public Works Department regarding Final payment in the amount of $12,010.00 to Kelly Construction for the 2007 Mudjacking Program. (331)

 

j.        Report from the Public Works Department regarding Final payment in the amount $16,883.67 to Peterson Parking Lot Striping Inc. for the 2007 Joint Pavement Marking Program. (332)

 

k.      Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $4,000.00 to the Illinois Historical Preservation Agency for the Blackhawk State Park Sanitary Sewer Lift Station. (333)

 

Agenda Item #8

 
 
Claims for the week of December 7 through December 13 in the amount of $317,008.17.

 

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Conroy 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 #9

Report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the purchase of a replacement street light pole, recommending the bid be awarded to Springfield Electric Company in the amount of $4,640.78.

 

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to award the bid as recommended and authorize purchase. 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

Report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the purchase of water treatment chemicals, recommending the low bid for each of the water treatment chemicals listed in the combined total amount of $484,423.00.

 

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Austin seconded to award the bids as recommended and authorize purchase. 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

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding bids for asbestos investigation, recommending the bid be awarded to RAMSCO in the amount of $5,005.00.

 

It was moved by Alderman Conroy, seconded by Alderman Austin 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 #12

Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding bids for concrete floor replacement at DeSoto Arts building, recommending the bid be awarded to Fischer Concrete Service in the amount of $14,250.00.

 

Alderman Austin 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 #13

Report from the Personnel Department regarding a contract for Labor Counsel Legal Services with Califf and Harper, recommending a three (3) year agreement at the rate of $165.00 per hour effective on January 1, 2008, $170.00 per hour effective on January 1, 2009 and $175.00 per hour effective on January 1, 2010. 

 

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to approve a three (3) year agreement with Califf and Harper as recommended, and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents.

 

Discussion followed with Alderman Conroy inquiring as to whether the City has ever sought proposals for Labor Council Legal Professional Services. Alderman Conroy did not recall ever voting for this type of service.

 

City Manager Phillips indicated that in the past, the City has sought proposals for these types of professional services, but it has been a number of years since the City has sought out proposals. Mr. Phillips added that Califf and Harper have been engaged with the City for a number of years.

 

Alderman Conroy pointed out that there were two (2) lower bids.

 

Personnel Director John Thorson stepped forward and explained that 50 requests for proposals for Labor Counsel Legal Services were sent out and three (3) bids were received. Mr. Thorson stated that Califf and Harper have a lot of experience in Employment Law and in the area of Public Safety. Mr. Thorson also noted that this is a very narrow area, and with Interest arbitration, it is a very important aspect of service that very few law firms provide. Mr. Thorson also stated that based on comparisons, Califf and Harper have more experience with this type of work despite it being $6,000.00 over a three (3) year contract.  

 

After more discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Alderman Brooks, Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, Alderwoman Murphy and Alderman Austin; those voting No,  Alderman Conroy, Alderman Pauley and Alderman Tollenaer.

 

Agenda Item #14

Report from the Personnel Department regarding a contract for Workers Compensation Legal Services with Betty, Neuman and McMahon, recommending a three (3) year agreement at the rate of $125.00 per hour effective on January 1, 2008, $125.00 per hour effective on January 1, 2009 and $125.00 per hour effective on January 1, 2010.

 

Alderwoman Murphy moved and Alderman Austin seconded to approve a three (3) year agreement with Betty, Neuman and McMahon, 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.

 

Agenda Item #15

Report from the Public Works Department regarding a contract with Midland Davis Corporation for Curbside Recycling.

 

It was moved by Alderman Pauley, seconded by Alderman Conroy to approve the contract as recommended, and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract document.

 

Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert stating that over 1,600 individuals in advance have subscribed to this program. Mayor Schwiebert also noted that marketing is continuing on this program, and the City is looking at a variety of ways to engage people into participating in this program.

 

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 #16

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

 

Alderman Austin moved and Alderwoman Murphy 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 #17

Report from the Public Works Department regarding the Five Year Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Year 2009 to Fiscal Year 2013.

 

a.       It was moved by Alderman Pauley, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve the Five Year Capital Improvement Plan and the Gaming and General Fund Carryovers as recommended; authorize staff to complete planning and engineering for Fiscal Year 2009 and Fiscal Year 2010 capital improvement projects; and authorize staff to enlist community participation in development of a sidewalk master plan. 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.      Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Pauley seconded to approve water rate increases of 6.0% effective on January 1, 2008 and 5.0% effective on January 1, 2009 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.

 

c.       It was moved by Alderwoman Murphy, seconded by Alderman Austin to approve sewer rate increase of 20.0% effective on January 1, 2008 and 20.0% effective on January 1, 2009 as recommended, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance.

 

                  Discussion followed with Alderman Conroy stating that the reason there is a 20.0% increase is due to the Federal Government requiring the City to make major improvements in the City’s sewer system, which is approximately 65 million dollars.  Alderman Conroy noted that when the Federal Government first confronted the City, it was thought that the amount would be roughly 21 million dollars. After negotiations, it became more expensive. Alderman Conroy commented that possibly no one around the table wanted to vote for a 20.0% increase.

 

                  Alderman Pauley offered that the 65 million dollars is spread out over 18 years. If the City does not do it this way, the Federal Government will step in and mandate that the improvements be done now.  

 

                  Mr. Glen Evans of 1120 8th Avenue stepped forward and voiced concerns regarding the water and sewer rate increases and how it would affect Rock Island Citizens.

 

                  Mayor Schwiebert suggested to Mr. Evans that he may want to talk to his Congressman and encourage the Congressman’s support of the City’s efforts to obtain federal relief on these unfunded federal mandates.

 

After more 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 changes to the Human Relations Commission Ordinance. 

 

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo seconded to approve the changes to the Human Relations Commission Ordinance as recommended, and refer to the City Attorney for an Ordinance.

 

Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert stating that the commission has brought back the Ordinance to Council with some modifications, which are included in the document. The Mayor had a few suggestions for several modifications within the document. Mayor Schwiebert stated that on the first page of the Ordinance, Sec. 2-271, (c) number II,  the document states: To seek through law, education, persuasion and negotiation.....etc. Mayor Schwiebert stated to strike the word and in front of negotiation, and put after that and mediation.  Mayor Schwiebert explained that the most important function of the commission will be the mediating function. Mayor Schwiebert then stated that in the same section of the document in sub paragraph seven (7) (VII), the sentence should state; to act as mediator instead of to act a mediator. Also, the Mayor pointed out that in letter (c), a few paragraphs down the page regarding appointments, the sentence should read; appointments made by the Mayor with approval by the City Council.   The Mayor noted that this appears twice in the same paragraph. Special appointments to the Commission shall be made by the Mayor to the City Council as vacancies occur instead of by the Mayor and City Council as vacancies occur.

 

Mayor Schwiebert stated that on last page of the document, half way down the paragraph, it states: Complaints referred to the commission may be reviewed and discussed by the commission....etc., Mayor Schwiebert noted that it would be useful to insert (after the word commission), which shall seek to mediate and resolve the dispute to the parties satisfaction provided, and then the sentence would continue with the commission shall have the authority to refer the complaint...etc. Mayor Schwiebert inquired upon City Attorney Ted Kutsunis as to whether a modification should be included regarding  if people have a complaint that they bring before the Human Relations Commission, that they need to be informed that if they want to pursue other remedies, that they need to act on those things in a timely fashion. City Attorney Kutsunis responded that this could be handled by the rules within the Human Rights Commission itself.

 

Mayor Schwiebert offered the other modifications to the Council for consideration for an amendment. Alderman Conroy moved to amend the modifications as recommended by Mayor Schwiebert, Alderman Austin seconded.

 

Discussion followed with Lauren Loftin of 1209 18th Avenue and a member of the Human Relations Commission addressing Council and discussing several of the revisions of the original Ordinance concerning discrimination, complaints and the Open Meetings Act. Ms. Loftin firmly stated the she wanted a commission that could work effectively to resolve issues that came before the commission in the City of Rock Island.

 

 Alderman Pauley inquired at whether it would be appropriate to table this item until it could be corrected.

 

Mayor Schwiebert stated that there have been good questions and some good answers. More discussion has been proposed concerning the modifications in general as opposed to the amendment on the floor. Mayor Schwiebert suggested to Council to vote on the amendment so that the modifications could be incorporated, and a good clean Ordinance could be drafted; then Ms. Loftin's other questions could be answered, and the item could be tabled.

 

After more discussion, Mayor Schwiebert stated that the motion to amend is before Council. The motion to amend reads as follows;

 

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Austin seconded to amend the modifications as recommended by Mayor Schwiebert. 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.

 

 Much discussion followed regarding the Original Ordinance, the 12 member commission and sub-committees, the Open meetings Act and how complaints are handled and suggestions for not violating the Open Meetings Act.

 

After more discussion, Alderman Pauley suggested to table Agenda Item #18 for two weeks to allow people time to review it, and see what they actually wanted.

 

The motion to defer reads as follows;

 

It was moved by Alderman Pauley, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy to defer action on Agenda Item #18 until Monday, January 14, 2008.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 Traffic and Engineering Committee regarding a request to install a handicapped parking space at 1021 12th Avenue.

 

It was moved by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderwoman Murphy 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 #20

Report from the Traffic and Engineering Committee regarding a request to install a stop sign at the intersection of 45th Street and 23rd Avenue.

 

Note: The sentence should have read regarding a request to install stop signs at the intersection of 45th Street and 23rd Avenue (changing yield signs to stop signs).

 

Alderman Conroy moved and Alderman Austin seconded to deny the request as recommended.

Discussion followed with Mayor Schwiebert inquiring as to whether anyone wished to be heard regarding Agenda Item #20.

 

Mr. Marvin Engels of 4412 23rd Avenue stepped forward and stated that during the nights in the summer months, a night doesn’t go by without residents hearing a vehicle’s squealing brakes when they approach the yield signs. And, many vehicles drive through the yield sign and do not yield.  Mr. Engels also stated that he did not understand why stops signs could not be placed at 45th Street and 23rd Avenue.

 

Alderman Pauley inquired as to how many yield signs are erected at 45th Street and 23rd Avenue. Mr. Engels responded that there are two sign there now.

 

Alderman Conroy stated that only five (5) signatures were obtained. Mr. Engels replied that they possibly did not contact enough neighbors.

 

Alderwoman Murphy stated that the neighbors know what they need in the neighborhood.

 

Alderman Austin stated that he had contacted Mike Kane of Public Works, and Mr. Kane had defined local residential streets.  Alderman Austin started that 45th Street is possibly one of the higher volume local streets. It is a thoroughfare.

 

After more discussion, Mayor Schwiebert stated that the motion before Council is to deny the request. The motion reads as follows;

 

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

 

Mayor Schwiebert then inquired if there was an alternate motion. The alternate motion reads as follows;

 

Alderman Pauley moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to install two stop sign at the intersection of 45th Street and 23rd Avenue (two corners) to replace the two (2) yield signs, 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 #21

Report from the City Clerk regarding a request from Reverend Willie E. Jones of the People’s Missionary Baptist Church for parking to be permitted at the curbside along the east and west sides of 23rd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues on Monday, December 31, 2007 from 9:00 p.m. until 12:45 a.m. on Tuesday, January 1, 2008 for their annual New Year’s Eve church service. 

 

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

 

Agenda Item #22

Report from the City Clerk regarding a request from Cabanas to extend their current schedule for outdoor entertainment through June 2008 along with a request for outdoor entertainment to be extended for one night only on Monday, December 31, 2007 until 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 1, 2008 for New Year’s Eve.

 

Alderman Austin moved and Alderman Brooks seconded to approve the requests as recommended subject to Cabanas renewing their Liquor License by May 1, 2008, complying with all other Liquor License regulations, and subject to being closed down early if noise complaints are received. 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

Items from the City Manager’s Memorandum Packet.

 

City Manager John Phillips indicated that the City is expecting to receive word this week regarding the Appropriations Bill at the Federal level. Mr. Phillips noted that the City has several earmarks that will hopefully be funded.

 

Mr. Phillips brought to the Council’s attention information regarding the House Gaming (Gambling) Legislation Bill 4194. Mr. Phillips stated that the Bill was introduced in the House last week. Mr. Phillips stated that the Bill is a very complex piece of legislation, and is a funding mechanism for a variety of capital projects encompassing the State of Illinois. Mr. Phillips noted that the Bill has a number of provisions that affect existing license holders and cities that host existing casino license holders. Mr. Phillips indicated that a significant provision that was included in the Bill would cap the distribution of revenue for local governments with existing licenses at the 2007 levels.

 

Mr. Phillips remarked that for the City of Rock Island there would be very serious implications; Mr. Phillips stated that the Quad Cities is down 10% due to competition; Mr. Phillips noted that 2007 has not been a very strong year in gaming in the Quad Cities. Mr. Phillips pointed out that the City has a new casino under construction, and to freeze the City of Rock Island at the 2007 levels would be unfair and unreasonable. Mr. Phillips stated that the City would be capped at 2.5 million dollars if the legislation passes; the City has received approximately four (4) million dollars, which has been repayment of rebates and rental income received from the Casino Rock Island. It was noted that when the casino moves to the new location, the City will not receive the rental revenue due to the casino being on their own property; and the rebates will soon be repaid. Mr. Phillips indicated that the City anticipates that the revenues with the new casino will be approximately six (6) million dollars; and much of the revenue from the Casino is used to fund the City's Capital Improvement Program. Mr. Phillips concluded that the City is strongly opposed to the specific provisions in the bill.

 

Mayor Schwiebert reiterated Mr. Phillips' statements, and stated that this issue is very critical to the people of Rock Island.

 

Mr. Phillips acknowledged that on January 1, 2008 there will be an Illinois State law passed for banning smoking in public places. Mr. Phillips noted that the rules are not out yet. However, the rules will be reconsidered at the State level on January 9, 2008. Mr. Phillips then inquired upon Planning and Redevelopment Administrator Alan Carmen to 

give an update to Council regarding the smoking ban. Mr. Carmen stated that the City has had several meetings with various local communities and other organizations regarding this issue to try to identify what would happen if someone is smoking in a public place after midnight on January 1, 2008. Mr. Carmen stated that it may be as simple as telling the individual that it is in violation of the law to smoke in a public place. Mr. Carmen noted that on January 1, 2008 there will be a toll free number to call to complain. Mr. Carmen pointed out that local law enforcement will monitor businesses, and make sure that they are aware of the implications for allowing the violations to occur. Mr. Carmen also stated that the City is working with the Inspections Division to identify areas that could be constructed (when the rules are issued) to establish a smoking environment. But, Mr. Carmen noted it could not be defined due to the rules not as of yet being issued. Mr. Carmen concluded that there would be a meeting on Thursday, December 20, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. in Council Chambers to discuss the smoking ban.

 

Chief John Wright of the Rock Island Police Department stepped forward and stated that the City may need to enact a City Ordinance that mirrors the State law to make enforcement easier at the local level. Chief Wright commented that people will be expected to comply with the new law and businesses will be expected to enforce the law.

 

City Manager Phillips stated that a letter was received today from the IRS regarding the Clean Renewable Energy Bonds applications. Mr. Phillips noted that the City received approval for up $700,000.00 for the Hydropower Plant. Mr. Phillips also noted that the City plans to sell bonds in April of 2008 for the project.

 

Agenda Item #24

Other Business

 

Mr. Timothy Dooling of 832 14 ½ Street stepped forward and voiced concerns regarding the Rock Island Police Department’s action involving Mr. Dooling and a  relative.

 

Mr. Larry Hunter of 1213 15th Street stepped forward and voiced concerns regarding a friend and sister who has cancer and recently lost her daughter. Mr. Hunter commended the Rock Island Police Department for the speedy arrest of the perpetrator of his friend’s daughter. Mr. Hunter inquired upon Council and community for suggestions on how to help his friend.

 

Mr. Mike Collier of 1316 10th Street stepped forward and voiced several of the same concerns regarding Mr. Hunter’s statement. Mr. Collier reminded everyone to have a safe and non-violent holiday.  

 

Agenda Item #25

Executive Session on Property Acquisition.

 

A motion was made by Alderwoman Mejia-Caraballo, seconded by Alderman Austin at 8:03 p.m. to recess to Executive Session on matters of Property Acquisition and Personnel. 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 #26

Recess

 

Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 8:33 p.m. A motion was made by Alderwoman Murphy and seconded by Alderman Brooks to recess to Monday, January 7, 2008 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 8:34 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

           

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                                                                      Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk