Peoria Standard

City of East Peoria City Council met April 5.

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, Commissioner Seth D. Mingus, and Commissioner Michael L. Sutherland.

Absent: None.

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 Mingus, seconded by Commissioner decker; Mr. Mayor, I move that the minutes of the Regular Meeting held on March 15, 2022 and the minutes of the Public Hearing held on March 15, 2022 be approved as printed.

Yeas: Commissioner Decker, Hill, Mingus, 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 on the agenda to come to the podium and state the matter or matters to be discussed. There was no response.

Resolution No. 2122-136 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that the claims as listed on Schedule No. 22 be allowed. Mr. Mayor, I, move that the Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to issue orders on the Treasurer for the various amounts, totaling $4,023,071.71, and the schedule of bills be hereby adopted as presented.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4639, hereto attached, (ANNUAL APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE FOR THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR FROM THE FIRST DAY OF MAY A.D. 2022 TO THE LAST DAY OF APRIL A.D. 2023) 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 appropriation ordinance explained that it is the maximum that can be spent through the fiscal year. The total for all funds is $114,469,358.

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

Nays: None

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and Ordinance No. 4639 be adopted as presented.

Resolution No. 2122-120 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-120, hereto attached, a Resolution to approve the Working Cash Budget for the Fiscal Year from the first day of May A.D. 2022 to the last day of April A.D. 2023, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-120 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 budget. He pointed out where the revenues come from and are spent on certain items. Property taxes are estimated at $5.8 million dollars and provide funding for the fire pension, police pension, municipal audit, street lighting fund, social security, unemployment insurance, and workers compensation. Other revenue sources cover the other expenses.

Mayor Kahl explained that it is a balanced budget and runs from May 1, 2022 to April 30, 2023.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-134 by Commissioner Hill; WHEREAS, a vacancy exists on the East Peoria Planning Commission as a result of Michael Brunner being recently appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals for the City; and

WHEREAS, the Honorable Mayor John P. Kahl has recommended the appointment of Julie Siebert to fill the vacancy on the East Peoria Planning Commission;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS, THAT the appointment by Mayor John P. Kahl of Julie Siebert to the East Peoria Planning Commission to fill the vacancy for a term ending April 30, 2024.

AND THAT THIS RESOLUTION NO. 2122-134 BE ADOPTED AS PRESENTED.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move that Resolution No. 2122-134 be adopted as presented.

Commissioner Hill and Mayor Kahl commented on Julie Siebert and thanked her for her willingness to serve.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and Resolution No. 2122-134 be duly adopted as presented.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4641 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AMENDING REGULATIONS FOR SHORT-TERM RENTALS UNDER THE EAST PEORIA CITY CODE) 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 is changing some wording in the City Code. The verbiage for operator-occupied has been removed. The change here establishes an annual fee for a license as one does not currently exist. Also, while there’s no harm in calling out the requirement the Special Use will cease with the sale of the property, this requirement already exists within the code. Lastly, while many stays are less than 30 days, there are some that are more than that time frame. The 29 days here references the length of time the City is able to collect lodging tax. That verbiage has been clarified, as well.

Commissioner Decker explained if there are people that object they can do so through the special use process. He is impressed with the work done to ensure compliance with the codes.

Mayor Kahl explained that there are opportunities for people to speak up at the Zoning Board of Appeals (“ZBA”) hearing on the Special Use. Short-term rentals have been going on for quite some time, and these changes to the City Code are to regulate these locations and refine the processes for licensing.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Mingus, 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. 4642 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ZONING REGULATIONS IN TITLE 5 OF THE EAST PEORIA CITY CODE FOR SPECIAL USES ALLOWED IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS TO INCLUDE BEEKEEPING IN LIMITED SITUATIONS) 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 ordinance. The petition here is for a code change to permit beekeeping as a Special Use in residential zoning. The City has recently been approached by a new resident regarding this issue but as we’ve investigated it further, there appears to be an active local community of beekeepers in the area. The draft language presented here is modeled after the City of Peoria’s ordinance with input from some of the local bee-keeping community. The ZBA meeting discussed concerns regarding items and answered questions. Beekeeping is proposed to be limited by a special use that gives neighboring parties the ability to give comments.

Commissioner Sutherland, who is familiar in beekeeping, explained that there are honeybees all over and are endangered due to herbicides and pesticides. He asked that pesticides or herbicides be applied just before dark because bees are not out at that time except in the event of an emergency. This gives the pesticide or herbicide a chance to dry up.

Mayor Kahl explained that this was change initiated with a young woman who moved into East Peoria and had raised bees and helped to craft the ordinance.

Commissioner Decker discussed the importance of bees as a pollinator. If bees are well maintained, they do not cause a problem to a neighbor.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-133 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-133, hereto attached, a Resolution Approving Software Licensing Agreement for the City’s Geographical Information System (GIS System), be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-133 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 the current GIS System Licensing Agreement is set to expire. He discussed the GIS map and explained that it is available to residents and used internally by several department including Public Works. This is for a three-year term agreement at a cost of $27,500 per year.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-131 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-131, hereto attached, a Resolution approving a Cabinet Ground Lease Agreement with the Emergency Telephone System Board at EastSide Centre, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-131 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 the location of the current tower is at EastSide Centre and this will be located on the current tower. Mayor Kahl explained that this is because of an update to emergency communications in the County. The City owns the property, and this equipment is only to the benefit the of City.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-121 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-121, hereto attached, a Resolution Regarding Renewal of Group Term Life Insurance Policy for City Employees, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-121 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 and Mayor Kahl commented on the renewal explaining that this is a better rate than was presented at the previous meeting so it is being presented for a first reading again. City Attorney Brunton explained that the City’s broker got a better rate and lock the new rate for two years. It is essentially a redo of the first reading. The increase is now 2.6% in year one and no increase in year two instead of a 12% increase that was proposed at the last City Council meeting.

Commissioner Decker explained that he would be abstaining from voting this Resolution as well as Resolution Numbers 2122-125, 2122-132, 2122-135, 2122-137, 2122-138, and 2122-126, as well as Ordinance Number 4640 due to his employment at the City.

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

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-125 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-125, hereto attached, a Resolution Regarding Employee Contribution Rates for the City’s Group Health Insurance Plan, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-125 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 the Insurance and Benefits Committee recommended an adjustment to the employee contribution rate. The increases range from $4.30 to $8.84 spending on coverage type. The increase is split between the employee and City 50/50. This change also allows for the option for investment with the Health Savings Account for the HDHP individuals.

Mayor Kahl thanked the Insurance and Benefits Committee and explained that these increases are relatively minimal.

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

Abstain: Commissioner Decker

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-132 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-132, hereto attached, a Resolution to approve the salaries, wages, and employee benefits for certain non-union employees of the City of East Peoria for the fiscal year beginning May 1, 2022 and ending on April 30, 2023, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-132 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 authorizes an increase of 2.0%, in general, for non-union employees. It also provides the Pay Plan Schedule and FLSA exemption Status for positions.

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

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

PMotion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Sutherland; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4640 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RETIREMENT PROVISIONS OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA PERSONNEL POLICY MANUAL THAT ADDRESS PAYOUTS AT RETIREMENT) 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 provides for a clarification for retirement payouts. This puts into place what the process that has already been occuring.

Yeas: Commissioner Hill, Mingus, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-135 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Sutherland; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-135, hereto attached, a Resolution Approving Contract with Optimum Health Solutions for Assisting with the Employee Wellness Program, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-135 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 contract is for Biometric Screening that will occur on April 12 and 13. Mayor Kahl thanked the Wellness Committee for their hard work. The Biometric Screenings and Counseling are ways to catch potential issues in advance, and it helps keep costs down for the insurance. These Screenings can also make a difference in saving a life.

Yeas: Commissioner Hill, Mingus, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-137 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-137, hereto attached, a Resolution Regarding Revisions to the City’s Group Health Insurance Plan, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-137 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 specialized service by establishing a “Center of Excellence” arrangement with BJC-Centers of Excellence for the treatment of complex medical conditions when no local providers exist for treating such complex medical conditions. The BJC-Centers of Excellence can also provide second medical opinions for complex or specialized conditions. The BJC-Centers of Excellence are located in the St. Louis region.

Yeas: Commissioner Hill, Mingus, Sutherland, and Mayor Kahl.

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-138 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-138, hereto attached, a Resolution Regarding Reinsurance Carrier for the City’s Group Health Insurance Plan for the 2022-2023 Plan Year, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-138 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 the City sought quotes for reinsurance renewal. The Committee is recommending approval of renewal of the reinsurance contract with Reunion Health Services Inc. for the upcoming Plan year. The City has contracted with Reunion Health Services for the last couple of years, and Reunion Health Services has again provided the most competitive and viable rates for the upcoming fiscal year. The Committee is also recommending that the specific deductible remain at $110,000 for the upcoming new plan year, finding this deductible level to be the most cost effective for the City’s Plan.

Mayor Kahl explained that this is a 5.7% increase from last year.

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

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-126 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-126, hereto attached, a Resolution Authorizing Fourth Amendment to Lease Agreement with Accelerated Health Systems, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-126 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 the City has had an agreement with Athletico since 2009 and this extends the lease for another five years. The annual base rent is $41,700 annually.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-128 by Commissioner Sutherland, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122- 128, hereto attached, a Resolution accepting the Proposal from Cornwell Engineering Group for a Corrosion Control Study within the Valley View Knolls Water System, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-128 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 Sutherland explained that the state is requiring a desktop corrosion study when the City switches the Valley View Knolls Water System to the City of East Peoria system. He feels that it is slowing the process down and that it is an unfunded mandate by the State. He is hopeful that this is the last step in the process.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Sutherland, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4643 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 7, CHAPTER 5, SECTION 1.11 OF THE EAST PEORIA CITY CODE TO AMEND THE POLICY OF FORGIVENESS FOR INTERNAL WATER LEAKS) 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 Sutherland explained that this is an amendment regarding the forgiveness for internal water leaks. Based upon the implementation of the 2019 revisions to this forgiveness policy and the City staff’s experience with handling forgiveness claims in the past two plus years, City Officials have again reviewed the forgiveness policy to further refine and improve this policy and the related application process. Accordingly, City Officials seek to make these further amendments to this policy of forgiveness for internal water leak in the ongoing effort to maintain a fair and consistent policy for all water users in the City. Additionally, the determination of what is considered an “internal water leak” for this forgiveness policy is being clarified.

Mayor Kahl explained that there was a policy made in November 2019 and now there are things that needed to be refined. The City does our own water and sewer and this is the prudent thing to do. Mayor Kahl further explained that this refined the language to include hot tubs in the leaks. This policy pertains to internal water leaks; removes that $1,000 limit; provides for forgiveness every 12 months; and must be two times the normal usage. It will still require a verification that the leak is fixed. However, it no longer requires a receipt and allows for photos in lieu of receipt. The service tech will continue to check to ensure that it is fixed.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-127 by Commissioner Mingus, seconded by Commissioner Hill; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122-127, hereto attached, a Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and International Association of Fire Fighters Local Number 1498 regarding Paramedic Bonus at Time of Hire, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-127 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 Mingus explained that this change has been discussed for quite some time. Because the City wants to have individuals that have already received their paramedic training to test for firefighter positions this change provides for the option of a bonus for $10,000 for those who already have the paramedic certification. It would be done in two installments. He feels that this is beneficial to the City, firefighters, and the community. It does not have to be done; however, it gives the option to give the bonus. Paramedic classes are $6,000 and approximately $9,000 is spent for overtime. Therefore, this is a savings to the City.

Mayor Kahl commented on the secondary list where experienced police officers can apply. They went in front of the Fire and Police Commission to seek ways to incentivize people with these credentials. He thanked Commissioner Mingus, Acting Fire Chief Zimmerman, and the Fire and Police Commission for their work.

Commissioner Decker explained that this was not an issue in the past because there were plenty of people who wanted to be Police Officers and Firefighters. This may entice people to become a firefighter.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-129 by Commissioner Mingus, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122- 129, hereto attached, a Resolution approving the Purchase of 10 Laptops (8 Laptops for the Fire Department) for the City of East Peoria from SHI, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122-129 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 Mingus explained that this is for the purchase of 10 total laptops with 8 being for Fire and 2 for likely being backups for the Police Department. These are Getac laptops that are better than what is currently used in the Fire Department.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2122-130 by Commissioner Mingus, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2122- 130, hereto attached, a Resolution approving the New Radio System Upgrade Purchase from Motorola Solutions for the Police Department, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2122- 130 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 Mingus explained that the Resolution is for the purchase of a new radios for the Police Department totaling $161,307.10 and is related to the countywide upgrade. Mayor Kahl explained that there will be a future purchase for Public Works. This is purchase is part of the capital expense plan. This will allow for opening up communications regionally. It will help in safety, and he is excited to see it moving forward.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Mingus, 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. Bob Sinks came up to the podium to express concerns and inquire regarding several items. He first inquired as to the status of the grain elevator property. Attorney Brunton explained that the property owner has filed a lawsuit against the city and the insurance defense council for the City is seeking to dismiss the lawsuit. Mr. Sinks also inquired as to possible dumping at the site of the grain elevator. No one on the City Council is aware of anything being transported and being dumped at the site. However, they explained that they would look into the matter. Finally, Mr. Sinks thanked the City Council for approving the beekeeping ordinance, and explained that he wanted to talk to the Mayor regarding some questions. Mayor Kahl indicated that his door is always open.

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 the water leak forgiveness ordinance. He appreciates the ordinance and explains that it is the City service, you cannot forgive all leaks, and the City needs to ensure that the leaks are fixed.

Commissioner Hill commented on the Clean Sweep coming up on May 7 at the FOLEPI Building. Individuals can form a team and help. May 7 is also the Annual Flower Sale beginning at 9am. The Flower Sale lasts until it is sold out which usually happens before 12pm. Farmers Market vendors applications are being sought with the Famers Market beginning May 20 and lasting through the end of August weekly on Fridays from 4pm to 7pm. Vendors that are interested can go to the City website to get the application.

Commissioner Sutherland commented on older sewer lines need to be replaced in older subdivisions. The life expectancy of clay tile is 25 years. City pipes also need replacing after a certain time. There are lots of changes coming from the EPA for water which is costing more money and leaves less money for other items. If you are leaving town, shut your water off on the inside if it is empty. If you are having someone house-sit, have someone check the basement for any water issues. There are leak detectors you can purchase with some having a sensor that will notify your phone. Two videos on water and sewer have come out that are very professional and accurate. He would like one more video about vacationing and things that people should know. There are water filling stations in the City that are relatively cheap to fill at $.25 per gallon. Commissioner Sutherland would also like a sewer video to show what happens with sewer water. The building by the Festival Building for the Sewer Department is coming along. Road patching is happening on Highview Road and sewer main will follow. Commissioner Sutherland commented on lead water lines and explained that if someone has lead water lines in their home please contact the City because paperwork must be completed.

Commissioner Mingus explained that tomorrow from 1pm to 4pm at Central House is the Car Seat Check Event.

Mayor Kahl commented on East Peoria travel volleyball league having a Daddy Daughter Dance on April 16 from 7pm to 9pm at East Peoria Central Junior High. Tickets are available. Contact Patty Mingus at mingusp@epd86.org or call 309-645-733 for tickets or questions. The Citizens of East Peoria Facebook page has had comments on the road conditions. Mayor Kahl explained that the City Council does not have any say in the streets that get repaired or redone as it is done through a ratings process through an engineer. The weather has been terrible, and the winter has been rough on the roads. Street maintenance is still under IDOT review. Crews are out everyday patching, and it is based upon priority. Mayor Kahl explained that Chief Knapp has not been with the City since February 28. He took available earned leave until he retires, and Chief Zimmerman is the Acting Chief and will be sworn in on May 9. He explained that Governor Pritzker signed his 103rd executive order regarding the state being under a health emergency, and it runs through April 30. Mayor Kahl believes that the media should pay attention to how many executive orders have been done. Mayor Kahl expressed his appreciation and love for his father-in-law, Dwight Sterling Fuhrman. Mayor Kahl explained that Mr. Fuhrman is one of the strongest people he knows, means the world to him, and they are by Mr. Fuhrman’s side.

Motion by Commissioner Sutherland, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that we adjourn until Tuesday evening, April 19, 2022 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 7:36 P.M.

https://www.cityofeastpeoria.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04052022-968