Peoria Standard

City of East Peoria City Council met April 16.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The Honorable John P. Kahl Mayor of the City of East Peoria called the Working Session of the City Council of the City of East Peoria, Illinois to order at 5:00 P.M. with the meeting having been properly noticed. The City Clerk certifies that notice of the meeting was duly served upon Council Members via email on Friday, April 12, 2024 at approximately 5:03 P.M.

Upon the roll being called the following answered present: Mayor John P. Kahl, Commissioners Daniel S. Decker, Seth D. Mingus, and Commissioner Michael L. Sutherland.

Absent: Commissioner Mark E. Hill.

Mayor Kahl explained that the Special Meeting is called for the purpose of FGM Architects Police Station Design Presentation and stated that no formal action would be taken at the meeting. Mayro Kahl explained that planning process for the new policy department, including completing a space study and now have been working with FGM Architects for plans. He introduced Mark Price and Louise Kowalczyk from FGM Architects. Mr. Price explained that they are working on realistic goals. He gave a history and explained that they had several meetings to go over what was needed for a new police department. Ms. Kowalczyk discussed and showed images on the screen of the proposed site that is a two-story building. The proposed building is to serve as a safe place, with a sense of pride, and a recruitment tool. She commented on the separation between the staff and visitors with visitors’ parking in the front and secure staff parking in the back. The public is allowed in the lobby, there is community room/training room, and public restrooms/storm shelter. There are stairs and elevators that are secure and the public can only come up if invited. She discussed having investigations and patrol on the first floor. There is an indoor parking garage planned as well as a second floor. Ms. Kowalczyk discussed the second floor including locations for administration, records, a training room, a break room, fitness/wellness area, and locker rooms. She next shared the elevations of the building showing the outside of the station, a 3D view from the building, and plaza area with flags and seating area outside.

Mayor Kahl commented on looking at other police stations and explained that there is a purpose to everything in the design including the use of natural lighting. He explained that officers were involved in the plans. Chief of Police, David Catton commented on the project, including connectivity of the building, everything having a purpose and no dual space purposes anymore. Chief Catton explained that there was a committee that all gave input.

Mayor Kahl thanked FGM and expressed excitement in moving forward with the project. He asked for any questions from City Council. Commissioner Decker expressed liking the design and quality of the building. He inquired about the timeline of the project. The project is currently at the conclusion of the schematic design. The goal is to start groundbreaking before October. It is anticipated to take 14-16 months weather depending to complete the project, and they anticipate moving into the building at the beginning of 2026.

Commissioner Mingus discussed liking the design of the police station. He believes that it will be a good addition with keeping the future in mind.

Commissioner Sutherland commented on the current police department and the need for a new building. He expressed concerned about flooding. He would like to see permanent or semi-permanent pumps placed around the area.

Motion by Commissioner Mingus, seconded by Commissioner Decker; Mr. Mayor, I move you that we adjourn the meeting.

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

Nays: None.

Mayor Kahl declared the motion carried and the meeting adjourned at 5:38 P.M.

https://www.cityofeastpeoria.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04162024-1160