City of East Peoria City Council met Dec. 6

By Kristine Gonzales-Abella

Feb 16, 2023

City of East Peoria City Council met Dec. 6.

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 November 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 proclaimed December 7, 2022 as “National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.” Mayor Kahl explained that the flag that he has at City Hall was flown at Pearl Harbor. He expressed appreciation for all that the greatest generation has done as they are truly the greatest generation.

Teresa Mustain, Coordinator of the Festival of Lights Queen Contest Pageant, presented the newly crowned Queen Magge Cowen, 1st Runner-up Jenessa Bowen, and 2nd Runner-up Jexie Bolding. Ms. Mustain explained how much the pageant means and helps the contests with, including helping in confidence and public speaking. She introduced Janessa Bowen and congratulated her on her scholarship for $300. Ms. Mustain explained that the Queen Magge Cowen and 2nd Runner-up Jexie Bolding could not be present at the meeting. Mayor Kahl explained that they all did a great job and that Commissioner Hill was a judge this year. Ms. Bowen thanked the City Council for the opportunity and explained that it has helped her work on speaking and getting in front of others boosting her confidence. Mayor Kahl recognized Teresa Mustain for her work on the Queen Contest Pageant and thanked her for her years of dedication. Ms. Mustain will be retiring as the coordinator and is looking for someone to take over. She would be more than willing to guide anyone who is interested.

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.

Jim Brummitt came up to the podium to speak on any questions or concerns there may be on the short term rental request at 408 Fondulac Drive. The City Council did not express any questions.

Roger Kep came up to the podium and explained that his is Owners Rep for the dispensary on Camp Street, called Cloud 9 owned by Midwest Real Estate that is up for a conditional use. He is happy to answer any questions. Commissioner Hill asked about whether the dispensary would be taking away business from the other dispensary as there is only a limited market. He asked why he thinks it is an increasing market. Mr. Kep explained that it is a growing market. In the state of Washington, there are 900 dispensaries, and there are only 200 in Illinois. He feels that they have an advantage of is that it will be vertically integrated store, meaning that they have a craft grow that is associated with it that will be unique products. It should be a drawing call from all lot of areas where people are willing to make more a drive than to go to their nearest dispensary. They are trying to make a retail experience that mimics the experience that people have around here with the retail environment. The location and building itself should be a compliment to the local environment. The growth that is happening is for the wellness side of it. There is growth on the healthcare side instead of using some other drugs. He does not feel that it will be a cannibalizing of the other stores.

Mayor Kahl asked for any other comments from the audience. 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 11 as listed on the agenda for this meeting to be considered by omnibus vote.

Item Number 1 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-114 – Resolution to Approve Payment of the Schedule of Bills Listed on Schedule Number 14 in the amount of $4,504,996.96.

Item Number 2 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-092 on its Second Reading - Resolution to Approve Second Amendment to Development Agreement with Flaherty & Collins, Inc. for Downtown Mixed-Use Project.

Item Number 3 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-095 on its Second Reading - Resolution Accepting and Approving the Proposal for the Purchase of a Power Generator for the New Fire Station on Centennial Drive.

Item Number 4 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-093 on its Second Reading - Resolution Approving the Purchase of Ten Laptops from SHI International Corp. in the amount of $29,610.

Item Number 5 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-096 on its Second Reading - Resolution Approving Change Order to the Eastside Centre Synthetic Turf Fields One and Seven Project to Add Field 7 Bullpens Replacement and Upgrade to the Project.

Item Number 6 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-097 on its Second Reading - Resolution Approving Supplemental Agreement to Provide Additional Construction Engineering Services with Midwest Engineering Associates for Fairlane Drive Pavement Patching Project.

Item Number 7 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-099 on its Second Reading - Resolution to approve an Agreement with Midwest Engineering Associates, Inc. for Design and Construction Engineering Services for Pinecrest Drive Phase I Pavement Patching Project.

Item Number 8 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-098 on its Second Reading - Resolution Approving Design and Construction Engineering Services Contract with Midwest Engineering Associates for the Winners Way and Illini Drive Pavement Patching Project.

Item Number 9 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-102 on its Second Reading – Resolution Approving Design and Construction Engineering Services Contract with Midwest Engineering Associates for East Washington Street ADA Ramps Reconstruction from Mall Street to Division Street Project.

Item Number 10 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-100 on its Second Reading – Resolution Approving Proposal from Hohulin Fence Co. for the Fencing of the new Water-Sewer Building.

Item Number 11 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-103 on its Second Reading – Resolution Approving the Proposals from Hoerr Construction, Inc. for Slip Lining Sewer Mains located near Reinders Road and near Par 3 Lane & Woodlawn Boulevard.

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 Items numbered 1 through 11 listed on the Consent Agenda be hereby approved and adopted, the items numbered 2 through 11 having been read once by their 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 2223-114 – Resolution to Approve Payment of the Schedule of Bills Listed on Schedule Number 14 in the amount of $4,504,996.96. (Adopted by omnibus vote)

Item Number 4 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-093 on its Second Reading - Resolution Approving the Purchase of Ten Laptops from SHI International Corp. in the amount of $29,610. (Adopted by omnibus vote)

Item Number 10 - Adoption of Resolution Number 2223-100 on its Second Reading – Resolution Approving Proposal from Hohulin Fence Co. for the Fencing of the new Water-Sewer Building. (Adopted by omnibus vote)

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Mingus, 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. 4689 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS AND A FUND TRANSFER FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING THE FIRST MONDAY IN MAY A.D. 2022) 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 this being supplemental appropriations ordinance that is allowed if there are conditions being met: additional unanticipated revenues that will be received by the City during the fiscal year and undesignated reserve funds that are not appropriated under the annual appropriation ordinance. We expect to receive an additional one million in sales tax, two million in non-home rule, and another $1,500,000 in personal property tax replacement. Those funds are going to be supplemental appropriations for project already approve and those improvement include the Levee Park, upgrade of the City’s financial software, construction of the City’s new fire station (the amount of for the fire station is not the total for the fire station as there were grant money received from Senator Koehler and former Representative Unes), purchase of the new waste collection truck, project at EastSide Centre, pay off debt for the Camp Street TIF, and pay off a loan for acquisition for the Camp Street TIF.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2223-101 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2223-101 hereto attached, a Resolution Regarding Contract Extension for Preferred Physician and Hospital Network for the City’s Group Health Insurance Plan with UnityPoint Health Plus (Health Plus, Inc.), be hereby approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2223-101 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.

Commissioner Hill explained that this is a recommendation to move forward with a new three-year contract with UnityPoint Health and explained that it was a cost-effective means to move forward.

Commissioner Decker will be abstaining out of an abundance of caution due to his employment with the city from this resolution, the next resolution, and Resolution Number 2223-111.

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

Nays: None.

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and Resolution No. 2223-101 be duly adopted as presented.

Resolution No. 2223-104 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2223-104 hereto attached, a Resolution Approving Renewal of Property, Casualty, and Liability Insurance Coverage and Workers’ Compensation Insurance Coverage, be hereby approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2223-104 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.

Commissioner Hill commented on the renewal of the insurance. For the upcoming policy year, the City will realize an increase in the premium for Property, Casualty, and Liability Insurance coverage (approximately $44,892), while also seeing an increase in the premium for Workers’ Compensation Insurance coverage (approximately $47,955). The annual policy premium for the Property, Casualty, and Liability Insurance coverage is $529,730 and for Workers’ Compensation Insurance coverage is $223,575, for a total premium of $753,305. Thus, the overall total premium will increase by approximately $92,847 for the upcoming policy year (an overall increase of approximately 14%).

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

Nays: None.

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and Resolution No. 2223-104 be duly adopted as presented.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4696 hereto attached, (ANNUAL TAX LEVY 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) 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 annual tax levy that must be submitted by the last Tuesday in December. If the City Council approves the proposed ordinance, we estimate that the amount of real estate tax collected will increase from $5,639,543 in 2021 to approximately $5,914,035 in 2021 for an estimated increase of $274,492. While the amount collected by the City will increase by approximately 4.87%, based on the availability of property assessed for the first time and based on estimated values provided by the supervisor of assessments, we believe that the tax rate will remain the same and property tax rate paid to the City by an existing property owner in 2021 will remain the same in 2022. The City has for decades has sought to maintain the tax rate. The County Assessor increase a 4% increase for assessed values of home in Fondulac Township; therefore, around 4% is coming from the County due to the increase in the assessed value.

Director of Finance Jeff Becker explained that the increase is for the assessed value and the other additional is property that is coming on the tax roll for the first time; however, it is estimated that the rate will remain the same regarding the City’s property tax.

Commissioner Hill went through the tax levy explaining what the tax levy is used for, including $332,809 for General Fund, $95,000 for Emergency Services and Disaster Assistance (ESDA) Fund, $250,000 for IMRF, Social Security Contribution Fund, Fire Pension Fund, Police Pension Fund, Street Lighting, Worker’s Compensation, and Unemployment Insurance. Garbage and employee salaries are not paid with the property tax money.

Commissioner Sutherland commented on the budget coming soon. He explained that he did not here infrastructure mentioned in the tax levy. He hopes that the infrastructure is in discussion for the budget.

Commissioner Hill explained that motor fuel tax is spend on streets. There is a five-year capital plan. There have been monies added to the motor fuel tax funds to get more streets projects done. Revenues other than property taxes are used for streets projects.

Commissioner Mingus explained that he is happy that it is rate equivalent and has been that way for many years.

Commissioner Decker explained that he appreciates the interest in spending money on roads. The city council has done a good job in trying to spend as much as possible. Motor Fuel Tax funds are right around $1,000,000, and the additional is coming from other funds. He is proud of the work done on streets and commented on his view on the financial outlook for the city. He commented on years when finances were low with the city, and the city keeping the property tax rate an equivalent rate.

Mayor Kahl commented on where the funds are utilized. He explained that the city gets blamed for property tax rates and increases. The city has not raised the property tax rate for likely in excess of 25 years. There are at least ten taxing bodies on the property tax bills. He asked people to attend the taxing body board meetings if they want to comment on the property taxes. He explained that silence is consent. He encouraged people to attend the other taxing bodies board meeting if they want to comment on property taxes. He appreciates what the city has done being fiscally responsible.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2223-111 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2223-111, hereto attached, a Resolution regarding amendments to the City’s Group Health Insurance Plan, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2223-111 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’s Insurance and Benefits Committee is recommending two plan benefit changes for the City’s Group Health Care Plan (the “Plan”) that will be effective on January 1, 2023. Due to some recent issues that have been brought to the attention of the Insurance and Benefits Committee, the Committee has determined that certain high-cost injections provided on an outpatient basis have become a more prevalent medical treatment option, but issues may arise regarding the medical necessity of such injections. Thus, in order to assist Plan participants by ensuring that the high cost injection will be covered by the Plan before receiving the injection, the Committee is recommending that any high-cost injection be reviewed and pre-approved by the Plan’s third-party administrator and utilization review manager. As a result, a Plan participant will ensure coverage under the Plan before proceeding with the injection. The other benefit change simplifies the coverage period for getting eye examinations under the Vision Care portion of the Plan so that the coverage period aligns with the calendar year.

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

Nays: None.

Abstain: Commissioner Decker.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4690 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AMENDING NUMBER OF LICENSES PERMITTED FOR RECREATIONAL CANNABIS DISPENSARY ORGANIZATIONS UNDER THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA ZONING 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 commented on the ordinance and the proposed increase in dispensaries from two to three. There is already one dispensary NuERA in the City, there is another that was approved on Main Street, and now there is one being proposed for West Camp Street. He is unsure of the market and thinks about whether an additional dispensary will cannibalize the business of the others and what number is a good number for the number to be approved in the City. He explained that there are a number of them to be located closed to and around the Levee District. There are restrictions regarding distances from schools and other places. He thinks that the city council should think about the number of dispensaries that should or they want to be approved.

Mayor Kahl commented on the number allowed was originally three, and it was reduced to two. Mayor Kahl feels that the city is going back to what was originally done with the number of three being approved.

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

Nays: Commissioner Sutherland.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4691 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A CONDITIONAL USE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 406 W. CAMP STREET IN THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, TAZEWELL COUNTY, ILLINOIS) 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 location being a former bank. He questioned if this approval would impede development for other business on the property. There has been no one in the business for some time. He inquired as to what the most likely business to occupy the former bank property at this location. Commissioner Hill explained that there is a deed restriction that the property cannot be used as a bank until after December 21, 2022. He wonders if this is the correct location for a cannabis dispensary type of business. Commissioner Hill commented on making a motion to defer or table the item.

Mayor Kahl inquired as to the process on deferring or tabling the item. City Attorney Scott Brunton explained that it the conditional use might be taken back before the Zoning Board of Appeals if there is additional information that was not heard by the Zoning Board of Appeals. City Attorney Brunton explained that he is unaware of a timing of for a conditional use to be brought before City Council.

Mayor Kahl explained that it made sense that it is not used as a bank as the current owner of the property is a bank. There was a discussion about whether there would interest in the bank locating on the property.

Commissioner Mingus explained that he would be willing to support this item, and he feels that if a bank were interested in the property, that it would be known by the current property owner. He commented on dispensaries and that people generally do not know that they are dispensaries from the outside of the building. He commented on the dispensaries being an alternative revenue source.

Commissioner Sutherland explained that he feels property owners should be able to do what they want with their property if they meet the state requirements.

Mayor Kahl explained that he did not like that the state approved recreational cannabis. However, he explained that there have not been issues with the current dispensary that is opened in the city. The city had initially three approved licenses. This location meets all of the criteria; the state made recreational cannabis legal; and the city initially authorized up to three; therefore, he will be voting in favor of the conditional use.

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

Nays: Commissioner Hill.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4692 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A SPECIAL USE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 408 FONDULAC DRIVE IN THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, TAZEWELL COUNTY, ILLINOIS) 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 short-term rental location and the limit of short-term rentals within a 1,000 feet of frontage. The owners reduced the number of bedrooms to two large suites, and the Zoning Board of Appeals voted three to two for approval. He explained the conditions on the special use, included in the ordinance.

Commissioner Decker commented on the distance requirement. He feels that he has heard about the quality of the homes that this applicant has in the area. He explained that he would not approve other ones with a high concentration of short-term rentals.

Commissioner Mingus commented on the quality of the location and explained that there are no more than three in 1,000 feet of frontage.

Mayor Kahl explained that he will not support the short-term rental because he did not support the others on Fondulac Drive. For the reasons that he did not support the other two short-term rental special use requests, he will not be support this short-term rental special use.

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

Nays: Mayor Kahl.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4693 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ZONING REGULATIONS IN TITLE 5 OF THE EAST PEORIA CITY CODE FOR PERMITTED USES ALLOWED IN BUSINESS AND MANUFACTURING DISTRICTS) 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 electrical vehicle chargers. This would allow the charging stations as permitted uses in areas zoned B-2 Business District, B-3 Business District, and Manufacturing Districts.

There was a question as to whether there have been inquires of certain locations for electric charged vehicle charging stations. Commissioner Hill commented on there being an inquiry in the past for one.

Commissioner Sutherland asked if this is taxable. He commented on truckers making their own diesel, and it being regulated by the IEPA and rtaxed.

Mayor Kahl commented on the current charging stations located on certain city property currently being free. At the state level, electric vehicles pay for more. However, he explained that the monies are not given to local governments to fix roads. He feels that this industry needs to be held to the same standard as vehicles using gas. He wonders as to whether the electrical infrastructure has the capacity for these electrical vehicles.

Commissioner Mingus commented on the charging stations at city hall and in the levee districts.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2223-107 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2223-107, hereto attached, a Resolution approving the Annual Contribution to the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2223-107 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 Greater Peoria Economic Development Council (“GPEDC”) contribution that is for $10,000. He commented on benefits from the GPEDC, including helping to facilitate grant processes during the pandemic.

Yeas: Commissioners Decker, Hill, Mingus, 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. 4694 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ZONING REGULATIONS IN TITLE 5 OF THE EAST PEORIA CITY CODE FOR PERMITTED USES ALLOWED IN B-3 BUSINESS DISTRICT) 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 change that would allow a casino in a B-3 zoning district. This clarifies that the casino is allowed in B-3 zoning district. Mayor Kahl explained that this is a city code housing keeping item.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2223-108 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2223-108, hereto attached, a Resolution Approving of Cyber Security Insurance Coverage, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2223-108 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 cyber security insurance that costs $27,340.70 and expires on December 1.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2223-112 by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2223-112, hereto attached, a Resolution Approving and Accepting the Proposal from Heart Technologies for Implementation of a Multi-Factor Authentication System for Accessing the City Computer System, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2223-112 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 multi-factor authentication to keep hackers out. This was a requirement for the cyber security insurance carrier.

Mayor Kahl explained that it will be more difficult; however, the city needs to be prudent and protect the city’s interest.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2223-109 by Commissioner Sutherland; WHEREAS, Jon Cowell has been continuously employed by the City from August 24, 1998 through November 14, 2022, most recently occupying the position of water treatment operator for Public Works;

WHEREAS, Jon Cowell announced his intention to retire from employment effective at the end of his shift on November 14, 2022; and

WHEREAS, the City is appreciative of the long and continued service provided by Jon Cowell; and WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City to execute the attached Separation Agreement; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, TAZEWELL COUNTY, ILLINOIS, THAT:

Section 1. The above recitals are found to be true and correct.

Section 2. The Mayor is hereby authorized to execute the Separation Agreement with such changes as the Mayor, in his sole discretion, may decide are in the best interest of the City of East Peoria.

Motion by Commissioner Sutherland, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move that Resolution No. 2223-109 be adopted as presented.

Mayor Kahl and Commissioners commented on Jon Cowell, thanking him for his 24 years of service to the city and wishing him well in his retirement.

Mayor Kahl commented on Mr. Cowell being paid one installment of $3,868.78 on or before December 15, 2022.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and Resolution No. 2223-109 be duly adopted as presented.

Resolution No. 2223-110 by Commissioner Mingus, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2223- 110, hereto attached, a Resolution Approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City and the County of Tazewell for Animal and Rabies Control Services, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2223-110 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 commented on the agreement and the amount of the contract for the year.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Resolution No. 2223-113 by Commissioner Mingus, seconded by Commissioner Decker; BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST PEORIA, ILLINOIS that Resolution No. 2223- 113, hereto attached, a Resolution Approving Annual Law Enforcement Policy Manual and Training Bulletins for East Peoria Police Department, be approved. Mr. Mayor, I move you that this Resolution No. 2223-113 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.

Mayor Kahl explained that this is the first time that the cost is over the $10,000 threshold to be brought before City Council for approval, and this is a must do for the Police Department.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried.

Motion by Commissioner Mingus, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that Ordinance No. 4695 hereto attached, (AN ORDINANCE ADDING A NEW CLASS OF LICENSE FOR ATHLETIC FACILITIES TO THE LIQUOR CONTROL REGULATIONS OF 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 Mingus commented on this being discussed the past year for a liquor license for EastSide Centre for outdoor and indoor tournaments. He explained that this is quite common for athletic facilities. Teams look to the experience, and this is one way to add to the experience.

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. There was no response.

Mayor Kahl then asked for comments from Council.

Commissioner Hill commented on the Shop and Stroll that is scheduled for this Saturday in the old downtown. He commented on the location of the businesses and others that are involved in the event. There are also free carriage rides.

Commissioner Sutherland commented on the property taxes. He explained that a large portion of a property tax bills go toward schools. He has heard that the pension can be around 85% of the property taxes for schools. He commented on pensions. He feels that we should look at changes to the pensions. He also feels that we should look at term limits, who pays into pensions, etc.

Commissioner Mingus explained that car seats checks are scheduled tomorrow at the Central Firehouse from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Car seat checks due not occur in January and February due to the uncertainty in the weather; however, people interested call to schedule an individual appointment to have car seats checked.

Mayor Kahl explained that pensions are the courtesy of the State of Illinois and are what deem to be an unfunded mandate from the State. The employees also fund the pensions. He feels that pension reform is long overdue in Illinois. Mayor Kahl commented on his father-in-law passing yesterday. He explained that he was a great man, father, and father-in-law who was a fan of the city of East Peoria. Mayor Kahl explained that he was a great friend to him as well. He explained that he will miss his father-in-law and is grateful that he does not have to suffer and is in a better spot. Mayor Kahl asked for prayers for his family. Mayor Kahl explained that Dwight Fuhrman means lot to him and will be forever in his heart.

Motion by Commissioner Sutherland, seconded by Commissioner Mingus; Mr. Mayor, I move you that we adjourn until Tuesday evening, December 20, 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 7:34 P.M.

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City of East Peoria City Council

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Peoria Standard