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Sunday, November 24, 2024

City of East Peoria City Council met Nov. 16

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City of East Peoria City Council met Nov. 16.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of East Peoria, Illinois was called to order by his Honor Mayor John P. Kahl presiding at 6:00 P.M. with proper notice having been given.

Upon the roll being called the following answered present: Mayor John P. Kahl, Commissioner Daniel S. Decker, Commissioner Mark E. Hill, and Commissioner Michael L. Sutherland.

Absent: Commissioner Seth D. Mingus.

The invocation was given by Commissioner Hill.

Mayor Kahl led the Council and the audience in the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

Motion by Commissioner Sutherland, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move that the minutes of the Regular Meeting held on November 2, 2021 be approved as printed. Yeas: Commissioner Decker, Hill, Mingus, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

There was a Special Recognition of Officer Tyler Swearingen. Chief Brodrick recognized Officer Tyler Swearingen with a Life Saving Award for his life saving actions in the early morning on August 24, 2021. Officer Swearingen saw someone slumped over. The gentleman was having medical issues and he gave his CPR and used the AED to keep him alive until the paramedics arrived. It was what Officer Swearingen did that kept the gentleman alive. He expressed his pride in Officer Swearingen and other officers that perform acts of heroism every day. Mayor recognized Officer Swearingen and thanked the first responders that do lifesaving deeds daily. He would like to see recognition done more often. Commissioner Decker expressed gratitude for Officer Tyler saving the life of the gentleman that day. He recognized the exceptional police department of the City who seek to make the community better. Mayor Kahl express gratitude for the families of the first responders for the sacrifices that they make.

Mayor Kahl proclaimed November 27, 2021 as “Small Business Saturday”. He encouraged everyone to support small businesses, merchants, and restaurants.

Mayor Kahl stated if there was anyone in the audience who wanted to speak on any items on the agenda to come to the podium and state the matter or matters to be discussed. There was no response.

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS BY OMNIBUS VOTE:

Mayor Kahl asked if any Commissioner wished to remove any items from the Consent Agenda for discussion. There was no response.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move to adopt a consent agenda consisting of items numbered 1 through 2 as listed on the agenda for this meeting to be considered by omnibus vote.

Item Number 1 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2122-077 – Resolution to Approve Payment of the Schedule of Bills Listed on Schedule Number 13 in the amount of $2,128,235.01.

Item Number 2 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2122-070 on its Second Reading - Resolution to approve the Purchase of Water Meters for the Illinois Central College Workforce Sustainability Center from Midwest Meter Inc. in the amount of $19,225.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Items numbered 1 through 2 listed on the Consent Agenda be hereby approved and adopted, the item numbered 2 having been read once by its title and having laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection be adopted as presented.

Item Number 1 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2122-077 – Resolution to Approve Payment of the Schedule of Bills Listed on Schedule Number 13 in the amount of $2,128,235.01. (Adopted by omnibus vote)

Item Number 2 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2122-070 on its Second Reading - Resolution to approve the Purchase of Water Meters for the Illinois Central College Workforce Sustainability Center from Midwest Meter Inc. in the amount of $19,225. (Adopted by omnibus vote)

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and the items adopted by omnibus vote designation.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4610, hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE GRANT OF EASEMENT TO AMEREN FOR POWER TRANSMISSION LINES OVER ACCESS ROAD 5 (OFF ILLINOIS ROUTE 116)) having been read once by its title and having been laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection, be adopted as presented.

Commissioner Hill commented on the ordinance explain both the easement and encroachment.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and Ordinance No. 4610 be adopted as presented.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4612 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE SALE OF EXCESS CITY PROPERTY AT 127 CANTERBURY COURT IN THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA) be accepted on its first reading as read by its title, and be laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection.

Commissioner Hill explained that this resolution is for the sale of excess City-owned property that is being returned to a useful state. The property must be sold for at least 80% of its appraised value. Mr. Swearingen is purchasing the property for $4,800.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4613 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE SALE OF EXCESS CITY PROPERTY AT 215 S. PLEASANT HILL ROAD IN THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA) be accepted on its first reading as read by its title, and be laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection.

Commissioner Hill explained that this resolution is for the sale of another excess City-owned property that is being returned to a useful state. Excess city property that is being purchased by Mr. Swearingen as well.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Sutherland; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4615 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A LOAN FOR FINANCING THE ADDENDUM TO ACCESS ROAD 6 IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FOR SPECIAL SERVICE AREA 2019A) be accepted on its first reading as read by its title, and be laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection.

Commissioner Hill commented on the Special Service Area 2019A that was approved for improvements to Access Road 6. There was an addendum that was approved recently due to larger than anticipated expenses for the improvement project. Commissioner Hill explained that Special Service Area Process. This is ordinance is one of the final steps for the financing of the additional amount. The other final step is to levy the amount on the properties that are affected by the improvement. This loan is with Morton Community Bank for an amount not to exceed $70,250.50 at an interest rate of 2.20% per annum repayable in nine annual installments.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4614 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING A TAX LEVY FOR CITY OF EAST PEORIA SPECIAL SERVICE AREA 2019A (ACCESS ROAD 6 IMPROVEMENT)) be accepted on its first reading as read by its title, and be laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection.

Commissioner Hill explained that this ordinance adopts a tax levy that will be placed on the properties that benefit from the Access Road 6 improvement work.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-073 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Sutherland; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-073, hereto attached, a Resolution Approving Renewal of Property, Casualty, and Liability Insurance Coverage and Workers’ Compensation Insurance Coverage, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-073 be accepted on its first reading as read by its title, and be laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection.

Commissioner Hill commented on the resolution explaining that it is for the renewal of the insurance through the Illinois Counties Risk Management Trust (ICRMT) through the City’ broker, Kuhl Insurance. There is a slight increase of $36,000 representing a 5.8% increase. The total premium expense is $660,459.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-076 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-076, hereto attached, a Resolution to Approve Contract for Engineering Services with Midwest Engineering Associates for Design Services for New Fire Station Project (Centennial Drive), be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-076 be accepted on its first reading as read by its title and be laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection.

Commissioner Hill explained that funds have come available through former Representative Unes and Senator Koehler for a new fire department building to be located by Illinois Central College (“ICC”). This resolution is to approve the design engineering work for the building.

Mayor Kahl explained that ICC has been a great partner to work with regarding this building. This project is a good thing for the City, ICC, and the community.

Commissioner Decker explained that this greatly cuts down the travel time for the Fire Department, and it will make an enormous difference. He is happy to see this and thanked Senator Koehler and former Representative Unes.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-074 by Commissioner Decker, seconded by Commissioner Hill; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-074, hereto attached, a Resolution to approve the purchase of two 2022 Ford Crew Cab Service Trucks from Uftring Auto Group in the amount of $121,660 for use as Utility Service Trucks in the Street Department, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-074 be accepted on its first reading as read by its title, and be laid on the table for no less than one week for public inspection.

Commissioner Decker commented on the resolution. He explained that, due to supply issues, the City was not able to purchase a plow truck that was planned, and these truck purchases are replacing that purchase. The vehicles that are being replaced are over twenty years old with close to 200,000 miles.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-075 by Commissioner Decker; WHEREAS, the Open Meetings Act (5 ILCS 120/1 et seq.) requires the City to give public notice of its schedule of regular meetings at the beginning of the calendar or fiscal year; and

WHEREAS, the City shall post said public notice at City Hall and send copies in the manner provided by law; and

WHEREAS, the City desires to approve of such notice in the form attached hereto and incorporated herein as attached;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, TAZEWELL COUNTY, ILLINOIS, THAT:

Section 1. The City of East Peoria, Tazewell County, Illinois, adopts hereby the public notice of its regular meetings in the form attached.

Section 2. The City Clerk of the City of East Peoria is directed to post a copy of the Public Notice contained in this Resolution in the City Hall and to supply copies of this Notice in the manner provided by law.

Section 3. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and approval in the manner provided by law.

Motion by Commissioner Decker, seconded by Commissioner Hill; Mr. Mayor, I move that Resolution No. 2122-075 be adopted as presented.

Commissioner Decker explained that this is an annual it that approves the schedule of regular meetings annual posting.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and Resolution No. 2122-075 be duly adopted as presented.

Motion by Commissioner Decker, seconded by Commissioner Sutherland, Mr. Mayor, I move that a closed meeting or executive session of the city council be held at the conclusion of this regular meeting to discuss the following matter or matters according to exceptions provided in the “Open Meetings Act” and specified as follows:

Section 2(c)(1) – The Employment, appointment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body or legal counsel for the public body, including hearing testimony on a complaint lodged against an employee of the public body or against legal counsel for the public body to determine its validity.

Section 2(c)(6) – The setting of a price for a sale or lease of property owned by the public body. Section 2(c)(11) – Pending litigation or litigation which is probable or imminent.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Mayor Kahl stated if there was anyone in the audience who wanted to speak on any items not on the agenda to come to the podium state the matter or matters to be discussed.

Mr. Yuedel Dryer commented about a drainage issue that he stated he is having with his neighbor. He explained that his neighbors installed downspouts and white plastic pipe is now facing his way. Director of Planning and Community Development, Ty Livingston, explained that he is not aware of any code requirements regarding Mr. Dryer’s issue. Mayor Kahl explained that the City does not have authority and it is a personal matter between private parties. Commissioner Sutherland commented on the code books and explained that the drainage is a civil matter between private parties. He commented on a possible county rule regarding dumping of water and that Mr. Dryer may want to investigate whether there is a rule that applies. He feels that it is still a civil matter.

Mayor Kahl asked for any additional comments from the audience. There was no response. Mayor Kahl then asked for comments from Council.

Commissioner Decker commented on being on vacation and hearing about the gang violence on the beaches in Cancun. He explained that we live in the best country in the world and in a great community. Commissioner Decker expressed hope that everyone try to look into the good things happening and wished everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

Commissioner Hill expressed condolences to the family of Mr. Russell Vroman on Mr. Vroman’s passing. He was music educator at East Peoria Community High School for many years and a part-time instructor at Illinois Central College in the Behavioral Science Department for many years.

Commissioner Sutherland commented on the safety of the East Peoria community and the great Chief and Police who serve on the East Peoria Police Department. He thanked Stewart Umholtz, the Tazewell County State’s Attorney. He explained that he is trying to put together a small Working Session for December 7 regarding the Building Code changes. He commented about issues that he sees regarding the traffic signal lights at the bottom of Illini Drive at the intersection with E. Washington Street. He feels that it is difficult to turn West onto E. Washington Street. He would like to see more time given to turn on to E. Washington Street. Commissioner Sutherland would like the City to look at putting a vote to have term limits of some sort on elective office.

Mayor Kahl commented on the Festival of Lights Parade scheduled for Saturday, November 20, 2021. The roads close at 5:30 pm and the parade starts at 5:45 pm. This is the first parade as Heavyweight Champs. He encouraged people to come out to enjoy the show. Mayor Kahl wished everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving. He commented on the United States being the greatest nation in the world. He explained that he cannot talk about a pending investigation. The EastPort Marina is still fully operational, and it has not skipped a beat. Please reach out to the City or the Marina staff for questions or issues regarding the Marina. He expressed appreciation for the employees at the Marina and their efforts.

Motion by Commissioner Sutherland, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that we adjourn until Tuesday evening, December 7, 2021 at 6:00 P.M.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Mingus, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Nays: None

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and the meeting adjourned at 6:50 P.M.

https://www.cityofeastpeoria.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_11162021-929

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