City of Peoria City Council met May 6.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
A Special Meeting of the Joint City Council and Town Board of Peoria, Illinois, was held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall, Council Chambers (Room 400), 419 Fulton Street, with Mayor Ali presiding, and with proper notice having been posted.
CONVENING OF THE OLD CITY COUNCIL
ROLL CALL
Roll Call showed the following Council Members were present: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, and Mayor Ali – 10; Absent: Velpula – 1.
INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The invocation was delivered by Minister Loreece Hightower. Mayor Ali then led the Pledge of Allegiance.
TOWN OF THE CITY OF PEORIA – PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS
(25-098) Official Canvass Results of the Consolidated General Election for the Town of the City of Peoria held on April 1, 2025, with Request to Receive and File.
Trustee Grayeb moved to receive and file the official Canvass results of the Consolidated General Election for the Town of the City of Peoria held on April 1, 2025; seconded by Trustee Gordon-Young.
Approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Chairwoman Ali – 10;
Nays: None.
CITY OF PEORIA – PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS
(25-099) Official Canvass Results of the Consolidated General Election for the City of Peoria held on April 1, 2025, with Request to Receive and File.
Council Member Grayeb moved to receive and file the official Canvass results of the Consolidated General Election for the City of Peoria held on April 1, 2025; seconded by Council Member Cyr.
Approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 10;
Nays: None.
(25-100) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request to Approve the 2025 Neighborhood Mini Grant Applications in the Amount of $199,200.00.
Community Development Director Dulin stated this was the fourth year of the Neighborhood Mini-Grant Program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act funds, with 65 applications received. He highlighted Council’s strong support of the program and requested approval for the proposed projects, noting the program helped with projects like gardens, events, and repairs.
Council Member Allen thanked Director Dulin and Staff for revitalizing the program and praised its increased popularity, especially in the 4th District. He commended Staff and expressed excitement for its future.
Council Member Jackson echoed the positive comments, noting her direct involvement in the program. She stated she would abstain from voting due to the conflict of interest.
Council Member Grayeb praised Community Development as one of his favorite Departments for its work with neighborhoods. He appreciated seeing positive development at the former Hale Chapel site on Main Street hill, a historically significant and unifying area. He also noted the value of consistent signage welcoming people into downtown from the 2nd District.
At the conclusion of his comments, Council Member Grayeb moved to approve the 2025 Neighborhood Mini Grant applications in the amount of $199,200.00; seconded by Council Member Riggenbach.
Approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;
Nays: None;
Abstention: Jackson – 1.
PRESENTATIONS TO RETIRING ELECTED OFFICIALS
Mayor Ali began by recognizing City Treasurer Chet Tomczyk for his approximately nine months of service. She praised his dedication and seriousness in the role, described his performance as “marvelous,” and presented him with his Resolution, a commemorative plaque, and a framed photo of City Hall.
RESOLUTION CHET TOMCZYK
CITY TREASURER
WHEREAS, Chet Tomczyk has served as City Treasurer for the City of Peoria, Illinois, from August 27, 2024, to May 6, 2025, during which he has given freely of his time in an unselfish effort and has demonstrated the highest ideals of public service by his dedication; and
WHEREAS, Chet Tomczyk, in recognition of his generous contribution of time and talent given on behalf of the City that will impact the future of the City of Peoria for generations to come, it is with profound appreciation and thanks for his service as City Treasurer. Even though his time in office was fairly brief, he has earned the endless gratitude of the Peoria City Council and the residents of Peoria.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Honorable Chet Tomczyk be presented with this Resolution, which shall be entered into the permanent records of the City of Peoria, Illinois, and attested by the City Clerk.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PEORIA, ILLINOIS, 6th day of May, 2025 A.D.
/s/ RITA ALI
Mayor Rita Ali
/s/ ANDRE ALLEN
Council Member Dr. Andre Allen
/s/ DENIS CYR
Council Member Denis Cyr
/s/ BERNICE GORDON-YOUNG
Council Member Dr. Bernice Gordon-Young
/s/ CHUCK GRAYEB
Council Member Chuck Grayeb
/s/ DENISE JACKSON
Council Member Denise Jackson
/s/ STEFANIE TARR
City Clerk
/s/ JOHN KELLY
Council Member John Kelly
/s/ ZACHARY OYLER
Council Member Zachary Oyler
/s/ TIM RIGGENBACH
Council Member Tim Riggenbach
/s/ KIRAN VELPULA
Council Member Dr. Kiran Velpula
/s/ MIKE VESPA
Council Member Mike Vespa
Treasurer Tomczyk thanked his wife for her support and noted the upcoming challenges for the City. He extended congratulations and well-wishes to the newly elected officials.
Mayor Ali honored Council Member Grayeb, noting his long tenure both as a District and At- Large Council Member, and described him as an integral part of the institution. She read the Resolution in his honor, highlighted his achievements, and presented him with a plaque signed by Council Members as well as a framed photo of City Hall.
RESOLUTION
CHARLES V. GRAYEB
WHEREAS, Charles V. Grayeb has honorably served as an At-Large Council Member for the City of Peoria, Illinois, from May 1995 to May 2007, and again as a Second District Council Member from May 2013 to May 2025, dedicating a total of 24 years to public service with unwavering commitment while demonstrating the highest ideals of public service; and
WHEREAS, during his combined tenure, Charles V. Grayeb, by his many years of efficient service as Council Member representing the residents of Peoria, served as Mayor Pro Tempore, served on the Peoria Civic Center Authority, the Neighborhood Development Commission on Human Resources, Liaison to the Budget Committee of the Town of the City of Peoria, the Downtown Development Corporation, Chairperson for the City of Peoria Memorial Day Celebration, and the Peoria Public Library Board of Trustees, earning the gratitude and respect of the community members of Peoria for his leadership and service.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council, on behalf of its members, officials, employees, and residents of the City of Peoria, extends sincere and profound appreciation and thanks to Charles V. Grayeb for his many years of dedicated service as a Peoria City Council Member.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Honorable Charles V. Grayeb be presented with this Resolution, which shall be entered into the permanent record of the City of Peoria, Illinois, and attested by the City Clerk.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PEORIA, ILLINOIS, 6th day of May, 2025 A.D.
/s/ RITA ALI
Mayor Rita Ali
/s/ ANDRE ALLEN
Council Member Dr. Andre Allen
/s/ DENIS CYR
Council Member Denis Cyr
/s/ BERNICE GORDON-YOUNG
Council Member Dr. Bernice Gordon-Young
/s/ DENISE JACKSON
Council Member Denise Jackson
/s/ JOHN KELLY
Council Member John Kelly
/s/ ZACHARY OYLER
Council Member Zachary Oyler
/s/ TIM RIGGENBACH
Council Member Tim Riggenbach
/s/ KIRAN VELPULA
Council Member Dr. Kiran Velpula
/s/ MIKE VESPA
Council Member Mike Vespa
ATTEST:
/s/ STEFANIE TARR
City Clerk
Council Member Grayeb reflected on his time on the Council, recalling his early support from fellow former member Dave Koehler, now Illinois State Senator, and his experience working with 12 City Councils, 5 Mayors, and multiple City Managers. He emphasized the importance of leadership in shaping Council dynamics and underscored the need to diversify Peoria’s economy beyond its historic manufacturing base. He discussed past and ongoing growth strategies, including expansion to the north and reinvestment downtown through ARPA-funded projects. He expressed optimism about the City’s future and encouraged the incoming Council to embrace their responsibilities, affirming their commitment with, “Yes, you did sign up for this.”
(25-101) Consideration of a Motion to Request Approval of the Resolutions Commending Outgoing Elected Officials and to Direct the City Clerk to Spread the Resolutions upon the Permanent Record.
Council Member Kelly moved to request approval of the Resolutions commending outgoing elected officials and to direct the City Clerk to spread the Resolutions upon the permanent record; seconded by Council Member Oyler.
Council Member Allen thanked Council Member Grayeb for his wealth of institutional knowledge and consistent support. He noted that while they did not always agree, he was always available to answer questions and offer guidance, stating he would continue to seek his insights.
Council Member Oyler expressed appreciation for nearly a decade of service alongside Council Member Grayeb. As both a constituent and colleague, Council Member Oyler noted their collaboration in resolving district and citywide issues, often through bipartisan discussions – even after heated debates.
Council Member Gordon-Young shared that Council Member Grayeb had once been her high school dean, which made her feel at ease when joining the Council. She acknowledged his dedication, extensive knowledge, and lasting impact and expressed hope of continued learning from him.
Council Member Cyr echoed his colleagues, saying he would miss their lunches and conversations. He praised Council Member Grayeb’s commitment and joked that they could now hide the dictionary, in reference to his extensive vocabulary and detailed knowledge.
Council Member Riggenbach described Council Member Grayeb as an institution and esteemed colleague. He emphasized his collaborative nature, saying their ability to work together despite differences was key to successful governance. He credited Council Member Grayeb’s leadership for contributing to the City’s progress, especially Downtown.
Council Member Kelly recalled meeting Council Member Grayeb when he and Eric Turner joined the Council. He described Council Member Grayeb as persistent and passionate, with ideas that drove his work. He said he appreciated his institutional memory and looked forward to continuing their relationship.
Council Member Vespa echoed the sentiments of others, praising Council Member Grayeb’s active advocacy in the 2nd District and his positive influence citywide. He called him a “cheerleader” for Peoria who inspired optimism amid negativity.
Council Member Jackson reflected on how quickly the past four years had gone and thanked Council Member Grayeb for wearing many hats as an elected official. She said his passion remained strong and credited him with helping to make Peoria a better City.
Mayor Ali closed by acknowledging that while she and Council Member Grayeb had their differences, they shared similar values and goals for the City of Peoria. She thanked him for his leadership, mentorship, and years of service.
Motion to request approval of the Resolutions commending outgoing elected officials and to direct the City Clerk to spread the Resolutions upon the permanent record was approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 10;
Nays: None.
ADJOURNMENT
Council Member Allen moved to adjourn the Special City Council Meeting; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.
Approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 10;
Nays: None.
The Council Meeting adjourned sine die at 6:42 P.M.
****ADMINISTERING THE OATHS OF OFFICE*****
Mayor Ali administered the Oath of Office to newly elected City Clerk Stefanie Tarr.
City Clerk Stefanie Tarr administered the Oath of Office to the following newly elected Officials:
Mayor Rita Ali
City Treasurer Jim Montelongo
1st District Council Member Denise Jackson
2nd District Council Member Alex Carmona
3rd District Council Member Timothy D. Riggenbach
4th District Council Member Dr. Andre W. Allen
5th District Council Member Denis Cyr
Township Supervisor LaTrina Leary
City Clerk Stefanie Tarr said Andrew Couri was elected to the office of Township Assessor for the Town of the City of Peoria on April 1, 2025, but will not begin his term until January 1, 2026, and will be sworn in on that date.
CONVENING OF THE NEW CITY COUNCIL
A Special Meeting of the Joint City Council and Town Board of Peoria, Illinois, was reconvened on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM at City Hall, Council Chambers (Room 400), 419 Fulton Street, with Mayor Ali presiding, and with proper notice having been posted.
ROLL CALL
Roll Call showed the following Council Members were present: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, and Mayor Ali – 10; Absent: Velpula – 1.
REMARKS BY NEWLY ELECTED OFFICIALS
1st District Council Member Denise Jackson gave honor to God and thanked First District voters for their support. She reflected on a fast first term and said she was just getting started. Inspired by family members displaced decades ago, including her grandmother on 6th Street, she expressed gratitude and said she looked forward to continuing her service alongside the Mayor and Council.
City Clerk Stefanie Tarr thanked those who supported her, especially during the challenges of the 2021 and 2025 campaigns, including the signature requirements. She expressed deep respect for the people she served and pride in continuing her work with integrity. She thanked her husband, her children, and her predecessor former City Clerk Beth Ball for their support, guidance, and trust.
City Treasurer Jim Montelongo thanked attendees and expressed his commitment to serve all Peoria residents with integrity, transparency, and diligence. Grateful for the trust placed in him, he emphasized the importance of financial clarity and communication, stating residents deserved to know how public funds were managed. He said he was honored to serve as Treasurer and that he was ready to get to work.
Township Supervisor LaTrina Leary thanked voters and those working to make a difference. She acknowledged the challenges ahead and expressed gratitude to those who helped her reach this point. She credited her husband for his sacrifices and support and thanked her children for their understanding. She honored her mother and late grandmother, noting her cousin’s support after her grandmother’s passing. She also thanked her team for standing by her during difficult times. She said it was an honor to serve another four years and noted that while much had happened, there was still more work to be done.
Mayor Rita Ali congratulated Andrew Couri on his election as Peoria Township Assessor and noted that he would be officially sworn in in January 2026.
2nd District Council Member Alex Carmona stated when moving to Peoria five years ago, running for office was not something he originally envisioned, and he expressed pride in serving the City and joining the Council. He thanked those who voted for him, and those who did not, affirming his commitment to treating all constituents fairly and with respect. He pledged to serve as a liaison between the community and the City. He thanked his friends, family, and children for their support, and gave special appreciation to his wife, who served as his campaign manager. He also thanked his extended family for traveling from Colorado, and acknowledged his late father, whom he said was present in spirit.
3rd District Council Member Timothy Riggenbach thanked his colleagues, guests, and constituents, expressing gratitude for being sworn in for a fifth term. He reflected on his first election win by just 12 votes and acknowledged being the most senior Council Member. He recognized the support of his family, including his children and brother, and honored his first- grade teacher and eighth-grade civics teacher for their influence on his journey into public service. He said his continued service stemmed from a genuine love for Peoria and belief in its potential. He acknowledged the Council’s accomplishments and expressed hope that the 2025 Council would be known for collaboration. He closed by thanking Mayor Ali and reaffirming his commitment to working together for the City’s future.
4th District Council Member Dr. Andre Allen expressed gratitude to God and affirmed his love for the community. He thanked his wife, calling her the rock and star of their household, on her birthday, acknowledging her sacrifices and unwavering support. He thanked his children for their patience during the campaign season, noting he looked forward to more family time. He recognized his parents for providing a strong foundation and his father for modeling true leadership. He reflected on the influence of his siblings, particularly in shaping his sense of responsibility as the oldest. He expressed appreciation for his campaign volunteers, emphasizing how no one achieved public office alone. He thanked the people of Peoria for placing their trust in him, promising to serve as their voice and focus on economic development. He closed by affirming his belief that Peoria’s best days lay ahead.
5th District Council Member Denis Cyr congratulated all the candidates who ran, stating he looked forward to serving the next four years. He thanked God for daily guidance and acknowledged his significant other for supporting him through her first campaign season. He recognized friends who were present and thanked them for their efforts throughout the campaign season. He reflected on his journey, beginning in Montreal, Canada, and noted his professional hockey career that ultimately brought him to Peoria, Illinois. After forty years in the United States, he said he was proud to have called Peoria home since 2004. He praised City Staff for their dedication and highlighted the accomplishments achieved over his past eight years of service. He expressed gratitude to the voters and said he was eager to complete ongoing projects and continue the work ahead.
Mayor Rita Ali congratulated her re-elected colleagues and welcomed newly elected 2nd District Council Member Alex Carmona. She thanked God for good health, a sound mind, and the strength to serve, calling it the honor of her life to lead as Mayor. She expressed gratitude to Peoria voters for entrusting her with a second term and looked forward to continuing the important work ahead. She echoed Council Member Riggenbach’s comments about loving Peoria and affirmed that, despite differences, Council Members shared a deep commitment to the City and could achieve great things by working together. Mayor Ali honored her late father and thanked her 87-year-old mother, watching from home, for being her first teacher. She spoke proudly of her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren – emphasizing her family’s legacy off strong women. She thanked Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth for encouraging her to run, as well as family, friends, and mentors like Illinois Senator Dave Koehler and Jim Johnson for their mentorship and support along the way. She praised the City’s leadership team, led by City Manager Patrick Urich, and said while Council Members may not always agree, their diversity was a strength. She committed to working together over the next four years to improve the City, including addressing the housing crisis.
TOWN OF THE CITY OF PEORIA – PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS
(25-102) Communication from the Township Officials with a Request to Approve a Resolution Authorizing Named Bank to Act as Depositories, Etc., of the Town of the City of Peoria and Authorizing the Town of the City of Peoria to Accept and Release Securities for Safekeeping Held by a Third Party, and Authorizing Name Bank to Honor Checks, Drafts, etc. and Repeal the Resolution Adopted on May 4, 2021.
Trustee Gordon-Young moved to approve a Resolution authorizing named bank to act as depositories, etc., of the Town of the City of Peoria and authorizing the Town of the City of Peoria to accept and release securities for safekeeping held by a third party, and authorizing name bank to honor checks, drafts, etc. and repeal the resolution adopted on May 4, 2021; seconded by Trustee Allen.
Resolution No. 25-102 was approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Chairwoman Ali – 10;
Nays: None.
CITY OF PEORIA – PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS
(25-103) Communication from the City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller with a Request to Approve Public Official Bonds for the Mayor, the City Clerk, the City Treasurer, and the City Comptroller from Callender & Co.
Council Member Oyler moved to approve Public Official Bonds for the Mayor, the City Clerk, the City Treasurer, and the City Comptroller from Callender & Co.; seconded by Council Member Kelly.
Approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 10;
Nays: None.
(25-104) Communication from the City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller with a Request to Approve a Resolution Authorizing Named Banks to Honor Checks, Drafts, Etc., of the City of Peoria, Authorizing the City Treasurer, City Manager, and the Finance Director/Comptroller to Accept and Release Securities for Safekeeping Held by a Third Party.
Council Member Allen moved to approve a Resolution authorizing named banks to honor checks, drafts, etc., of the City of Peoria, authorizing the City Treasurer, City Manager, and the Finance Director/Comptroller to accept and release securities for safekeeping held by a third party; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.
Resolution No. 25-104 was approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 10;
Nays: None.
CITIZENS’ OPPORTUNITY TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL/TOWN BOARD
It was determined there were no citizens who wished to address the City Council/Town Board at that time.
BENEDICTION
Pastor Chad Manbeck delivered the closing benediction.
ADJOURNMENT
Council Member Allen moved to adjourn the May 6, 2025, Special Joint City Council and Town Board Meeting; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.
Approved by roll call vote.
Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 10;
Nays: None.
The May 6, 2025, Special Joint City Council and Town Board Meeting adjourned at 7:52 P.M.
https://peoriagov.civicweb.net/document/221575/
