Peoria Standard

City of Peoria City Council met Feb. 13.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

A Regular Meeting of the Joint City Council and Town Board of Peoria, Illinois, was held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 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.

ROLL CALL

Roll Call showed the following Council Members were present: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali. Absent: Cyr, Velpula.

INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Mayor Ali requested a moment of silent prayer or reflection, and then she led the pledge of allegiance.

ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING NOTICE TO TOWNSHIP ELECTORS

Mayor Ali announced, pursuant to Public Act 095-0761, any citizen that desired to have an item considered on the agenda at the Annual Town Meeting to be held Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at 6:00 P.M., are required to bring a specific request signed by fifteen or more electors to the Township Clerk's Office no later than Friday, March 1, 2024. She said any group of registered voters may request an advisory question of public policy for consideration by the electors at the annual meeting by giving written notice of the specific advisory question to the Township Clerk in the same manner as required for an agenda item under subsection (b) of Section 30-10 of the Township Code.

RECOGNITION OF FORMER CITY COUNCIL MEMBER LESTER D. BERGSTEN

Mayor Ali said tonight, we send out heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Council Member Lester D. Bergsten, who served 20 years on the Peoria City Council and was known for dedicating his life to the community. She said he served our country for 37 years in the United States Air Force Reserves with a rank of Lieutenant Colonel, he served for 29 years as the U.S. Air Force Academy's local liaison officer, and he worked as an engineer for 40 years with Caterpillar, the company that brought him to Peoria after his early upbringing in the farmlands of Concordia, Kansas.

She said it was in Peoria where Council Member Bergsten knew he could make a difference, serving the City from 1973 to 1993, he was the first 5th District City Council Member as local government transitioned from Mayor and ten District Alderman to Mayor with three At-Large and five District Council Members. She said the surviving 1973 City Council celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and remarked on their achievements and public projects, like the Civic Center, Fire Training Academy, and Public Works facility, to name a few.

Mayor Ali said Council Member Bergsten filled his twenty years with work on the Wage Negotiation Committee, City County Recycling Committee, the Pioneer Park Economic Development Committee, and he was known for being accessible and proactive with the public he served. She said he was best known as "Mr. Public Works" for the advocacy of streets, curbs, gutters, and his efforts on street projects such as Allen Road, North University Street, as well as the annexations of Pioneer Park and Willow Knolls Court. She said his advocacy was so renowned, that the Public Works building was renamed the Lester D. Bergsten Operation and Maintenance Facility in May 1993 to coincide with his retirement.

Mayor Ali said former Council Member Bergsten's retirement from the Council did not mean he stopped serving the public, noting he became the City's longest-serving commissioner, having been first appointed to the Solid Waste/Landfill Committee in 1975, serving as the Chair of that committee from 2004 to 2017, and he continued to serve on that committee until his death.

She said when he retired from the Council in 1993, he told the Peoria Journal Star, "People ask me if I had fun. My response is 'I found it very interesting". Mayor Ali said the community members of Peoria were thankful he found it so interesting, and thanked him for his service and impact your work will have on our city for generations to come.

PROCLAMATIONS, COMMENDATIONS, ETC.

Black History Month National Engineers Week

MINUTES

Council Member Riggenbach moved to approve the January 23, 2024, City Council Minutes, as printed; seconded by Council Member Grayeb.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

TOWN OF THE CITY OF PEORIA - PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS

(24-030) Request from the Town Officials to Approve the January 2024 Actual Expenditures and to Approve the February 2024 Anticipated Expenditures for the Town of the City of Peoria.

Trustee Grayeb moved to approve the January 2024 actual expenditures and to approve the February 2024 anticipated expenditures for the Town of the City of Peoria; seconded by Council Member Jackson.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Chairwoman Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

CITY OF PEORIA - PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS BY OMNIBUS VOTE, WITH RECOMMENDATIONS AS OUTLINED

(24-031) Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a Request to Approve the Labor Day Picnic at Riverfront Festival Park on September 2, 2024, Sponsored by Peoria Area Community Events, Inc. (P.A.C.E), Subject to Their Filing of the Necessary Permits and Approval as Required by the City Code.

(24-032) Communication from the City Manager and Interim Director of Human Resources with a Request to Approve a Resolution to Appoint the Human Resources Benefits Administrator, Rachel Cook, as the Authorized Agent for the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).

(24-033) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request for the Following:

A. Approve a Contract with Jimax Landscape, LLC. for the Demolition of 3560 SW. Adams Street Utilizing Illinois Rebuild Grant Funds, in the Total Amount of $80,544.00; and,

B. Approve a Contract with Jimax Landscape, LLC. for the Installation of Fencing and a Parking Pad at 3560 SW. Adams Street Utilizing Rebuild Grant Funds, in the Total Amount of $181,108.00; and,

C. Approve a Contract with GA Rich for Electrical and Sanitary Line Work at 3560 SW. Adams Street Utilizing Rebuild Funds, in the Amount, of $113,865.00.

(24-034) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request to Approve an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City of Peoria and Greater Peoria Sanitary District for Cleaning and Inspection of Selected City Sewer Segments, in the Low Bid Amount of $150,527.50, and an Additional Authorization of $15,052.75 (10%) for Contingencies, for a Total Project Amount of $165,580.25. (Council Districts 1 and 2)

(24-035) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request to Approve an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City of Peoria and Greater Peoria Sanitary District to Line Selected City Sewer Segments, in the Low Bid Amount of $164,200.00, and an Additional Authorization of $16,420.00 (10%) for Contingencies, for a Total Project Amount of $180,620.00. (Council Districts 2 and 3)

(24-036) Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a Request to Approve Resolution No. 24-036 Regarding the Approval and Release of Closed Session Minutes.

(24-037) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request to Approve the 2024 Utility Assistance Program.

Mayor Ali questioned if Council Members wished to have any of the Consent Agenda items removed for discussion.

Council Member Oyler requested Item Nos. 24-032 and 24-033 be removed from the Consent Agenda for discussion.

Council Member Allen moved to approve the Consent Agenda items as outlined in the Council Communications; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Item Nos. 24-031 through 24-037 (excluding Item Nos. 24-032 and 24-033, which were removed for further discussion) were approved by roll call vote under the Omnibus Vote Designation.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

(24-032) Communication from the City Manager and Interim Director of Human Resources with a Request to Approve a Resolution to Appoint the Human Resources Benefits Administrator, Rachel Cook, as the Authorized Agent for the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).

A revised Resolution with attachment were distributed to all Council Members.

Council Member Allen moved to approve a Resolution to appoint the Human Resources Benefits Administrator, Rachel Cook, as the authorized agent for the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF); seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Resolution No. 24-032 was approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

(24-033) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request for the Following:

A. Approve a Contract with Jimax Landscape, LLC. for the Demolition of 3560 SW. Adams Street Utilizing Illinois Rebuild Grant Funds, in the Total Amount of $80,544.00; and,

B. Approve a Contract with Jimax Landscape, LLC. for the Installation of Fencing and a Parking Pad at 3560 SW. Adams Street Utilizing Rebuild Grant Funds, in the Total Amount of $181,108.00; and,

C. Approve a Contract with GA Rich for Electrical and Sanitary Line Work at 3560 SW. Adams Street Utilizing Rebuild Funds, in the Amount, of $113,865.00.

Council Member Oyler said he was abstaining from the vote on this item due to a conflict of interest related to a contract.

Council Member Gordon-Young moved to approve a Contract with Jimax Landscape, LLC. for the demolition of 3560 SW. Adams Street, utilizing Illinois Rebuild Grant funds, in the total amount of $80,544.00; seconded by Council Member Allen.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 8;

Nays: None;

Abstention: Oyler - 1.

Council Member Gordon-Young moved to approve a Contract with Jimax Landscape, LLC. for the installation of fencing and a parking pad at 3560 SW. Adams Street, utilizing Rebuild Grant funds, in the total amount of $181,108.00; seconded by Council Member Allen.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 8;

Nays: None;

Abstention: Oyler - 1.

Council Member Gordon-Young moved to approve a Contract with GA Rich for electrical and sanitary line work at 3560 SW. Adams Street utilizing Rebuild funds, in the amount of $113,865.00; seconded by Council Member Allen.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 8;

Nays: None;

Abstention: Oyler - 1.

REGULAR BUSINESS ITEMS, WITH RECOMMENDATIONS OUTLINED

(24-038) Communication from the City Manager and Chief of Police with a Request to Approve Funding for the Illinois Department of Human Services Special Allocation, in the Amount of $365,000.00, for the Following:

A. Award Youth Violence Prevention Grants to the Boys and Girls Club, Dream Center, and Minority Contractors, in the Total Amount of $250,000.00; and,

B. Award Youth Violence Prevention Micro-Grants to Products of the Projects, Junior Achievement, Exito Peoria, KOK, Hand Up, Boys to Men, My Mother's Community Garden, Mt. Zion Church, and Mothers War on Violence, in the Total Amount of $115,000.00.

After City Manager Urich stated the funds awarded had to be spent by the end of June 2024, Police Chief Eric Echevarria said Police Grants Coordinator Jennie Urquiza-Whitiker played a key role in the process.

Grants Coordinator Urquiza-Whitiker said eleven applications were received for the Youth Violence Prevention Grants with three selected for awards, and twenty-three applications were received for the Micro-Grants with nine selected for awards.

Council Member Allen applauded the efforts related to these grants with the short deadlines due to delays in state allocations. He said he appreciated the smaller grassroots organizations selected for this round of funding. He highlighted upcoming grant writing workshops scheduled at the Peoria Police Department as well as City efforts to help community organizations.

Council Member Gordon-Young said she agreed with Council Member Allen's comments, noting she appreciated the response to the Council's request concerning this allocation of grant funds to different organizations than the same large organizations repeatedly. After she asked about feedback for the organizations that were not chosen for funding awards, Grants Coordinator Urquiza-Whitiker said they would be contacted and invited to join upcoming workshops on grant requirements.

Council Member Riggenbach said these grant funds allowed additional opportunities to award funding. He encouraged Staff to maintain contact with the organizations to offer guidance as necessary, and he thanked Staff for their efforts. Grants Coordinator Urquiza-Whitiker said the City was invested in their success, noting microgrants were amazing opportunities.

Council Member Kelly thanked Staff for acting on the request of the Council to reach out to smaller organizations for funding opportunities that were focused on innovative and creative opportunities for the community.

Mayor Ali thanked Staff, noting she liked the strategy of identifying grassroots organizations working on the streets of Peoria for funding opportunities to support their efforts.

Council Member Allen moved to award Youth Violence Prevention Grants to the Boys and Girls Club, Dream Center, and Minority Contractors, in the total amount of $250,000.00; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

Council Member Allen moved to award Youth Violence Prevention Micro-Grants to Products of the Projects, Junior Achievement, Exito Peoria, KOK, Hand Up, Boys to Men, My Mother's Community Garden, Mt. Zion Church, and Mothers War on Violence, in the total amount of $115,000.00; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

(24-039) Communication from the City Manager and Chief of Police with a Request for the Following:

A. Approve a Sole Source Purchase for One Ford Transit Wagon from National Auto Fleet, in the Amount of Approximately $100,000.00, Which Includes All Necessary Equipment to Be Ready for Patrol. (Requires 2/3 Vote of Council Members Voting - No Less Than 6 Votes)

B. Approve a Sole Source Purchase for One Ford Explorer Interceptor from a No Bid Procurement Source, in the Amount of Approximately $90,000.00, Which Includes All Necessary Equipment to Be Ready for Patrol. (Requires 2/3 Vote of Council Members Voting - No Less Than 6 Votes)

C. Adopt an Ordinance Amending the City of Peoria 2024-2025 Biennial Budget Relating to the General Fund for Use of Fund Balance for the Purchase of Vehicles, in an Amount of $190,000.00 (Requires 2/3 Vote of Council Members Voting - No Less Than 6 Votes)

Police Chief Echevarria said police vehicles endured massive wear under extensive use, noting accidents occasionally occurred, and two vehicles were recently totaled. He described the specializations required for police vehicles and how new vehicles were ordered. He said the department had utilized the ordering program through the State of Illinois, however, because of the delay in receiving the new vehicle involved in that process, he asked the Council to approve the proposed direct ordering method in order to receive the vehicle faster.

Council Member Oyler moved to approve the sole source purchase for one Ford Transit Wagon from National Auto Fleet, in the amount of approximately $100,000.00, which includes all necessary equipment to be ready for patrol; seconded by Council Member Kelly.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

Council Member Oyler moved to approve the sole source purchase of one Ford Explorer Interceptor from a no-bid procurement source, in the amount of approximately $90,000.00, which includes all necessary equipment to be ready for patrol; seconded by Council Member Kelly.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

Council Member Oyler moved to adopt an Ordinance amending the City of Peoria 2024-2025 Biennial Budget relating to the General Fund for use of Fund Balance for the purchase of vehicles, in an amount of $190,000.00; seconded by Council Member Kelly.

Ordinance No. 18,144 amending the City of Peoria 2024-2025 Biennial Budget relating to the General Fund for use of Fund Balance for the purchase of vehicles, in an amount of $190,000.00, was adopted by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

(24-040) Communication from the City Manager and Assistant City Manager with a Request to Adopt an Ordinance Approving the Redevelopment Agreement with 825 Adams LLC, for 809-835 SW. Adams Street, to Develop a Commercial and Residential Mixed-Use Development in the Warehouse District. (Council District 1)

Economic Development Manager Debbie Van Sickle described the mixed-use development with 30,000 square feet of commercial space on the first level and 16 apartments on the upper level, including parking to accommodate for both residential and commercial spaces. She reviewed the costs of the project, with over $9 million eligible for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) reimbursement at a rate of 100% increment for 5 years and 50% increment thereafter.

At the conclusion of her comments, Council Member Jackson moved to adopt an Ordinance approving the Redevelopment Agreement with 825 Adams LLC, for 809-835 SW. Adams Street, to develop a commercial and residential mixed-use development in the Warehouse District; seconded by Council Member Oyler.

Council Member Oyler recognized the developer who was in attendance, and she thanked Staff for their efforts, noting this was a great project in the Warehouse District. He discussed touring other buildings in the area as well as nearby accomplishments and investments, noting he was looking forward to seeing the project materialize.

Council Member Riggenbach said this project was another exciting example of progress in Peoria, and he asked for more information regarding the increment schedule. Economic Development Manager Van Sickle explained the increment schedule was front-loaded because of required demolition for the project, then scaled back through the rest of the term of the Agreement. Council Member Riggenbach expressed his excitement for the project and said he would support its approval.

Discussions were held regarding the continued growth and increase of redevelopment projects in the Warehouse District, the density of buildings available for redevelopment in the area, and whether thresholds or limits existed regarding these projects.

Council Member Grayeb commented on the impact of redevelopment projects for Downtown, including potential allocation of resources, investments, opportunities, and additional services in the area. He discussed the history of Downtown Peoria, including the retail and residential population migration that was experiencing a reversal due to these types of developments for the betterment of all.

Mayor Ali thanked the developer and Staff for their efforts to bring this project to fruition.

Ordinance No. 18,145 approving the Redevelopment Agreement with 825 Adams LLC, for 809-835 SW. Adams Street, to develop a commercial and residential mixed-use development in the Warehouse District was adopted by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Including but Not Limited to Motions to Reconsider Items, if Any. from the Previous Regular Meeting)

It was determined there was no Unfinished Business to address.

NEW BUSINESS

OSF HealthCare's Cancer Institute

Council Member Grayeb said the OSF HealthCare's Cancer Institute opening soon will bring people to Peoria from across the country for treatment with their innovative technologies and techniques. He said it was a historic achievement highlighting the continued development of Peoria as a hub for healing and medical treatment centers. He said Council Member Riggenbach was organizing tours of the facility, and he said he was thankful for the $250,000.00 investment in Peoria's future.

Mayor Ali said she toured the facility the week prior, noting the technology, including the proton beam, and the size of the facility were both amazing. She said the work there would save and preserve lives, and people would travel to Peoria because of what they offered.

Gaza Conflict

Council Member Vespa said Council Chambers and overflow rooms in City Hall were full of constituents planning to voice their concerns that evening, noting he appreciated the civic engagement. He said hate did not play in Peoria and he discussed the Gaza conflict. He said he prayed for all those involved to be safe, stating their hopes and dreams were as important as those here in Peoria.

Mayor Ali said she was releasing a statement pertaining to the matter after the Council Meeting that evening that would be published on the City's website.

CITIZENS' OPPORTUNITY TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL/TOWN BOARD

Hearing no objection, Mayor Ali granted privilege of the floor to those citizens wishing to address the City Council/Town Board as follows:

Osama Alrefai, a concerned citizen, highlighted Black History Month and civil rights leaders. He expressed concern about the conflict and loss of lives in Gaza. He connected this international issue to its potential impact on the local community in Peoria. He urged the Council to take action by signing a Resolution ceasefire to send to federal representatives.

Imam Mazhar Mahmood, a concerned citizen, reviewed the situation in Gaza, the impact on both the International and local communities in Peoria. He expressed a concern for the suffering of the people in the conflict and urged the Council to take action by calling for a ceasefire and advocating for the freedom of Palestine.

Rami Abd-Rabu, a concerned citizen, shared his experience from a medical mission in Gaza in 2013 and compared it to the ongoing conflict. He emphasized the importance of a collective action and urged the Council to request a ceasefire and support Palestine's freedom.

Youssef Bouragine, a concerned citizen, emphasized the importance of rejecting hate and promoting safety by calling for a ceasefire in municipalities. He highlighted recent events in Palestine and the need to address accountability. He encouraged the Council to speak out against terrorism through support of the cease fire and to stand for what was right.

Estrella Diaz, a concerned citizen, asked the Council to support the ceasefire, stating it would have an impact. She said Palestinian residents in Peoria had people close to them involved in the conflict, and she asked the Council to represent the people of their community and not wait to take action.

Justin Leuba, a concerned citizen, asked the Council to approve a ceasefire Resolution. He discussed American-made munitions sent to Israel, those impacted by the conflict, the events happening in Gaza, and the impact of US tax dollars. He said if the Council did not support the ceasefire, then they condoned those events. He said there was no neutral position. He continued discussing events in Gaza and the impact of Council inaction.

Adam Kattam, a concerned citizen, said he had a right to feel safe in a community with elected officials who were not against his beliefs. He said having a ceasefire in Peoria was not discrimination but promoted safety. He discussed recent events in Gaza, and he asked the City Council to put a ceasefire Resolution on the agenda for consideration.

Anwar Ha J, a concerned citizen, proposed a three-point Resolution to the Council, which included the cessation of bombing in Gaza, facilitating the safe passage of humanitarian aid, and permitting United Nations officials to investigate the conditions. He highlighted the concern over U.S. tax dollars contributing to the conflict, the United States - Israel relationship, and the symbolic nature of a ceasefire Resolution. He addressed the reporting of events in the region and his belief as to why the Council would oppose a ceasefire Resolution. He stated approving a Resolution would ensure the safety of U.S. citizens at home and abroad.

Mahmoud Mizyed, a concerned citizen, said the prophet Mohammed stood for peace and justice for all mankind, and he said truth would be called lies, noting that time was now. He highlighted inaccuracies of the media regarding events in Gaza, his family history in Palestine, the history of Israel, as well as the need for justice and truth. He asked the Council to consider the ceasefire Resolution.

Sheldon Katz, a concerned citizen, said the Council was asked to consider a Resolution for ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. He said he did not believe the Council had jurisdiction on the matter. He asked the Council not to contribute to the controversy locally by considering the proposal, and he highlighted the global impact of recent events in Gaza. He explained the role of Hamas in the conflict, the impact of a ceasefire, and how a Resolution by the City Council would expand local controversy regarding the conflict.

Sonny Garcia, a concerned citizen, said he worked for the Muslim Civic Coalition as a Civic Justice Organizer. He read a letter from a physician in Gaza that highlighted events and conditions in the region. He said while a vote on a ceasefire Resolution was postponed, people suffered in the Gaza region. He explained taxpayer funds contributed to the conflict. He discussed the history of conflict in the region, his fight for equality for all, and the impact of local controversy in the Peoria area. He asked the City Council to stop being neutral and to support a ceasefire Resolution.

Tyrone Campbell, a concerned citizen, spoke to the audience in Council Chambers. (Clerks' Note: Comments were unintelligible. Did not speak into the microphone and faced the opposite direction of the Council.)

Liath H. Kattom, a concerned citizen, said he was concerned for the future of the country, and he discussed recent events concerning Israel as well as statements made by their leadership. He mentioned the United Nations, Gaza, and the U.S. Federal Government. He compared this conflict to other global conflicts. He asked the Council to call for a ceasefire and he offered to meet with individuals to further discuss the situation.

Jamaluddin Amanullah, a concerned citizen, asked everyone to set aside propaganda and prejudices, as well as media influences, in order to consider the human beings involved in the Gaza conflict. He asked the Council to sincerely consider the Resolution and to do what they felt was right.

Natasha Devine, a concerned citizen, addressed the Council regarding the lighting of the Murray Baker Bridge, expressed concern about possible misinformation presented, and the implications of a ceasefire Resolution for the Gaza conflict, emphasizing the municipal government's primary role. She highlighted the importance of the Council's focus on local issues, recognizing the Federal Government's responsibility in international affairs, and urged the Council to prioritize Peoria's interest while acknowledging diverse citizen perspectives and the complexity of governmental relations.

Terri Brink, a concerned citizen, asked the Council to support a ceasefire Resolution. She highlighted the treatment of Palestinians, recent events in Gaza, and possible war crimes investigations. She asked the Council to approve a ceasefire Resolution.

Noah Palm, a concerned citizen, advocated for a ceasefire Resolution. He drew upon historical context including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s speech regarding the Vietnam War and compared the funding allocations between that war and events in Gaza. He reflected on Dr. King's statements on violence both domestically and internationally. He urged the Council to reconsider neutrality and approve the ceasefire Resolution.

May Abouhouli, a concerned citizen, said she was born in Gaza and had family there, some of whom were killed and displaced in the recent conflict. She discussed recent events, media coverage, anti-boycott legislation, nationwide protests, and U.S. arms sales to Israel. She urged the Council to consider and approve the ceasefire.

Rabbi Bryna Milkow, a concerned citizen, expressed a desire to address the Council during a time of peace rather than conflict, but said that was not the case. She emphasized the complexity of the situation, indicating that a ceasefire Resolution would not suffice. She said she recently visited Israel and she provided testimonials of those involved in recent events there. She noted the importance of addressing topics in the appropriate forums, indicating that a City Council Meeting may not be the suitable platform for international affairs.

Miranda Bates, a concerned citizen, expressed a concern that taxpayers' funds were sent to Israel and proposed alternative funding allocations, reviewed recent events in Gaza and media coverage, and highlighted the political impact of the conflict and protests. She expressed support of the City Council approving a ceasefire Resolution, emphasizing its role in safeguarding citizens' interests, and asking them to do what was right. She highlighted local divisiveness and controversy affecting decisions.

Kathy McNeil, a concerned citizen, emphasized the importance of addressing violence and asked for a call for peace. She highlighted efforts for a ceasefire both domestically and internationally to ensure the safety of all in the region. She read scripture and a quote pertaining to human treatment and the principles of Judaism. She called for a ceasefire to end the violence and give peace a chance.

Natalie Koch, a concerned citizen, reviewed recent events in Palestine, the treatment of indigenous people worldwide, conditions in Gaza, and the environmental impact of the conflict. She commented on the motives and consequences of advocating for a ceasefire. She said a call for a ceasefire Resolution would show solidarity for life, while sending a message to higher authorities on the importance of addressing global health concerns.

Lawrence Maushard, a concerned citizen, read a message from Pastor Seth Major calling on the Council to approve a Resolution of ceasefire. Mr. Maushard asked the Council to do the right thing and approve the ceasefire Resolution.

Eyad Essad, a concerned citizen, reviewed the events and conditions of the Gaza conflict, and he asked the Council to approve the ceasefire Resolution, stating there had been peace in the region for thousands of years.

LaDona Fishkin, a concerned citizen, said she was a proponent of peace, stating a ceasefire that included demilitarization of the area would be detrimental. She reviewed recent events and the response of leaders in the region, and she encouraged the Council to remain focused on local affairs and not to engage in international affairs.

Ramez Abi-Akar, a concerned citizen, said it was urgent to take a stand against injustice in the middle east, stating the United States had turned a blind eye to those events. He discussed recent events in the region, the history of conflict in the area, the action and consideration of the federal government, and his hope for Peoria to inspire national action.

Hind Abi-Akar, a concerned citizen, asked the Council to support a ceasefire Resolution in Gaza to allow for safety and healing. She highlighted recent events in Gaza and expressed concern that US tax dollars were funding munitions. She asked the Council not to be intimidated by the minority by acting as the voice of citizens they represented that were asking for a ceasefire.

Souhail Elhouar, a concerned citizen, said the word 'Islam' stemmed from the word 'peace,' and she expressed her concern regarding the Federal Government's position on the Gaza conflict that divided the country. She highlighted recent events in Gaza, media reporting accuracies, the 75- year conflict in the region, and the need for peace.

Darcie Cady, a concerned citizen, said she respected this forum promoting freedom of speech, and she requested the Council vote on a ceasefire Resolution. She highlighted recent events in Palestine, the appropriateness of a ceasefire Resolution, and local financial implications. She asked the Council for their leadership and to support the ceasefire Resolution.

Susan Katz, a concerned citizen, highlighted events that took place in Israel on October 7, 2023. She said Hamas was a recognized terrorist organization, and she reviewed recent events in the region. She said people on both sides of the war were suffering and she said she worried what a ceasefire in the region would cause. She said it was the responsibility of the Council to defend the citizens of Peoria. She emphasized the importance of accurate information, and she urged the Council to not consider a ceasefire Resolution, which would further divide the community. She said it was not the Council's role to intervene in such matters.

Hassan Neroo a concerned citizen, asked members of the community to respect each other. He said Hamas had been designated a terrorist organization, which was the outcome of them growing up in those conditions. He discussed historical comparisons to the conflict, how people must be given opportunities to succeed, and how this forum was inappropriate for debating foreign policy but was appropriate to discuss the healing of Peoria citizens. He discussed what residents endured related to the conflict, and he asked the Council to approve a Resolution as a symbol, noting small cities had a voice.

Mallik Ahmed, a concerned citizen, told a story about families living in neighboring houses in conflict and resulting retaliation because of oppression. He asked the Council to support a ceasefire.

Jonathan Vota, a concerned citizen, reviewed the election results of At-Large Council Members, District Council Members, and the Mayor. He asked how decisions would differ regarding a ceasefire Resolution if different people were elected to those positions, and he asked the Council to consider the implications. He said he respected the Council, but he disagreed with their political views.

Keishaun Hess, a concerned citizen, discussed injustice and the problems the City of Peoria was facing, stating he supported the ceasefire.

Zachary Gittrich, a concerned citizen, said everyone was equal in America and the ceasefire called for equality. He said both sides needed to stop, and he reviewed recent events in Gaza. He said there should be a ceasefire, and he highlighted the benefits it would afford as well as recent ceasefire events. He asked the Council to support the ceasefire.

Celine Khourly, a concerned citizen, said some called for keeping global politics out of the City Council Meeting, but she stated Peoria was a sister city to a municipality in Lebanon who had taken in refugees from the conflict, and because of that relationship the war did affect Peoria. She asked the Council to continue the conversation for a ceasefire.

Alyssa McMillen, a concerned citizen, expressed her observations on the disproportionate violence experienced by Palestinians and Israelis, highlighting recent events and media coverage. She emphasized the history of conflict in the area, how US tax dollars were utilized, conditions in the region, and unwillingness to end the war.

Mayor Ali recognized citizens for utilizing their first amendment rights, and she thanked them for their contributions. She said a statement would be released after the meeting adjourned regarding the matter and would be posted on the City of Peoria website.

City Clerk Stefanie Tarr said eight letters from citizens were received asking the Council to approve the Resolution, noting they were placed on file in the City Clerk's Office.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Consideration of a Motion for the City Council to enter into Executive Session pursuant to 5ILCS 120/2(c)(11) Litigation, when an action against, affecting, or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that such a n action is probably or imminent; and, 2(c)(21) Discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under this Act, whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by Section 2.06.

Council Member Oyler moved to enter into Executive Session pursuant to 5ILCS 120/2(c)(11) Litigation, when an action against, affecting, or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that such a n action is probably or imminent; and, 2(c)(21) Discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under this Act, whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by Section 2.06; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

ADJOURNMENT

Council Member Oyler moved to adjourn the Joint City Council and Town Board Meeting; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Grayeb, Jackson, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali - 9;

Nays: None.

The Joint City Council and Town Board Meeting adjourned at 8:56 P.M.

https://peoriagov.civicweb.net/document/207179/