Peoria Standard

City of Pekin City Council met June 24.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

Pledge of Allegiance 

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Hilst.

Mayor Burress announced the death of Fred Massaglia and asked for those in the community to come to his visitation. Mayor Burress thanked the family for service and time.

Council Member Orrick described Mr. Massaglia as a giver and cared about friends in the community.

Call to Order 

City Clerk, Ms. Sue McMillan, confirmed all Council Members were physically present and logged in. Mayor Burress confirmed a quorum.

Attendee  Name	Organization	Title	Status	Arrived
Rick Hilst	City of Pekin	Council Member	Present	5:30 PM
Karen Hohimer	City of Pekin	Mayor Pro Tem	Present	5:30 PM
Dave Nutter	City of Pekin	Council Member	Present	5:30 PM
Mary Burress	City of Pekin	Mayor	Present	5:30 PM
Lloyd Orrick	City of Pekin	Council Member	Present	5:30 PM
John P Abel	City of Pekin	Council Member	Present	5:30 PM
Chris Onken	City of Pekin	Council Member	Present	5:30 PM

Approve Agenda 

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Dave Nutter

SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

Approval of Minutes 

4.1. City Council - Regular Meeting - June 10, 2024 5:30 PM 

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Dave Nutter

SECONDER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

Public Input 

Keith Dunkelbarger began by expressing condolences for the passing of Fred Massaglia, noting his long-standing acquaintance with him and praising Fred's reputation as a good businessman. Mr. Dunkelbarger mentioned that he had been a businessman in Pekin since 1980, having built five homes and served on the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC). He stated his intention to address the Council and Mayor Burress regarding an incident from the May 28th meeting, where Mayor Burress announced his removal from the EDAC, citing interference with city business and a future firefighter agreement. Mr. Dunkelbarger refuted these claims, stating he was not privy to future contracts. He mentioned that he had sent emails requesting facts and proof of the mayor's charges and a public hearing, as required by code, to clear his name from what he described as the mayor's slanderous statement. He mentioned that he had not received any responses and emphasized that only a Council can remove a member at a public meeting to discuss complaints. Mr. Dunkelbarger also noted that Economic Development Director Mr. Wray, Mr. Dossey, and several council members could attest to his claims, and inquired if the solar project was on the agenda for the current hearing. He concluded by requesting a hearing at the July 8th meeting to have the opportunity to substantiate the statements made against him.

Rex Pogioli expressed his concerns, noting that he was present at a meeting a month ago to discuss problems and erosions in his area. He mentioned that he was assured someone would contact him, but he has not heard back from anyone, which he finds disconcerting. Mr. Pogioli emphasized that the complex has been lovely for 24 years but requires maintenance and infrastructure changes that need to be addressed. He specifically requested Josie, the City Engineer, to give him a call, reminding her that she had visited the complex a few months ago.

Kathy Godkey, a resident of South 10th Street, addressed the Council regarding the street drains in her area. She mentioned that her street drains into Washington and pointed out a specific drain on the corner that was packed with muck and debris. Ms. Godkey inquired about the frequency of inspections and cleanings for these drains, noting that there was often a large amount of standing water on her street. Additionally,

she expressed concern about the increased volumetric sewer costs and questioned what actions were being taken to address this rise. Council Member Nutter sought clarification, asking if the location in question was 10th and Washington, to which Ms. Godkey confirmed.

Ted Golden raised several concerns regarding the Hornecker development at Velde. He inquired if there would be sidewalks on both sides of the road, pointing out the issue with a development on El Camino where the sidewalk was discontinuous. Mr. Golden asked if sidewalks would be a requirement for the new development and noted that he had taken pictures of Velde Drive to illustrate his concerns. He questioned why certain establishments, like the funeral home and church, were not required to install sidewalks, and asked about the general requirements for sidewalks, especially in discontinuous areas.

Mr. Golden discussed a specific issue on Willow Drive, where a power pole obstructs the sidewalk, making it impassable. He also mentioned a problem in front of Subway and Burger King, where a water main break several months ago had led to a poorly repaired asphalt surface that is now wavy and uneven. He emphasized that the consent decree likely includes maintenance provisions and questioned the timeline for addressing debris buildup. Additionally, Mr. Golden pointed out a traffic cone that has been present on 14th Street since 2017, asking if it would remain there indefinitely. He also brought up a new sidewalk on Stadium Drive, which is 10 feet wide, and inquired who would be responsible for maintaining it and clearing snow from it.

Amy McCoy, Director of the Chamber of Commerce, expressed her gratitude for the recent Downtown Street Party, which was the first of the summer and a huge success. She thanked everyone involved for their support. Ms. McCoy, also speaking on behalf of Pekin Main Street and the Bicentennial Committee, conveyed appreciation from these organizations for the successful event held on June 15th, acknowledging it as a long but rewarding day.

Consent Agenda 

Council Member Nutter read the items listed on the Consent Agenda.

Council Memeber Hilst requested to pull Consent Agenda Item 6.1 Accounts Payable to Be Paid Proof List thru May 31st. Mayor Burress confirmed that the Consent Agenda Item 6.1 would go under New Business as Item 7.11.

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Dave Nutter

SECONDER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

6.1. Financial Reports May 2024

6.2. Brush Hill Fire Protection District Annual Statement 

6.3. Ordinance No. 4198-24/25 Approving a Rezoning Request Submitted by First Baptist Church from OS-1 Office Service District to R4-One Family Residential District for the Properties Located at 700 South Capitol Street 

6.4. Ordinance No. 4199-24/25 Approving a Variance Request Submitted by Raymond & Gloria Long for the Property Located at 32 Rainbow Drive 

6.5. Ordinance No. 4200-24/25 Approving a Variance Request Submitted by Hornecker Properties, LLC for the Vacant Property Located at the corner of Velde Drive and Parkway Drive to Reduce the Minimum Building to Building Setbacks from 30 Feet to 16 Feet 

6.6. Ordinance No. 4201-24/25 Approving the Final Site Plan Submitted by Hornecker Properties, LLC for the Vacant Property Located at the Southern Corner of Velde Drive and North Parkway Drive 

New Business 

7.1. Ordinance No. 4202-24/25 Approving a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Redevelopment Agreement with Hornecker Properties for a 34-Unit Duplex Development at Parkway and Velde Drives 

The council discussed Ordinance No. 4202-24/25, which approves a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) redevelopment agreement with Hornecker Properties for a 34-unit duplex development at Parkway and Velde Drives. City Manager, Mr. John Dossey, read the request, noting that Jeff Hornecker owns five acres of land at the southwest corner of Parkway and Velde and intends to construct a 34-unit duplex development along with necessary infrastructure, seeking TIF assistance for the project. The ordinance and TIF redevelopment agreement provide a 50% real estate tax rebate on the incremental tax generated by the project throughout the life of the Court Street TIF (2044) or until the cumulative reimbursement reaches $1.67 million. Staff recommended approval of the ordinance and agreement.

Economic Development Director, Josh Wray, pointed out a typo in Exhibit 1 of the packet, clarifying that the $35,000 figure should be $1.08 million over the life of the loans.

Council Member Nutter noted that $1.08 million represents 30% of the allowable amount, which Mr. Wray confirmed, explaining that only 30% of the total interest expense is eligible per state statute. Council Member Orrick remarked that this 30% interest cost eligibility had not been seen in other TIFs, to which Mr. Wray responded that it had always been an allowable expense per state statute but many not have applicable.

Council Member Hilst inquired about the presence of sidewalks on both sides of the streets in the development. Chief Building Official, Mr. Nic Maquet, stated that on public roads like Velde and Parkway, sidewalks are included in the plans, but not on private roads. Mr. Hornecker confirmed this, and Mr. Maquet added that stormwater retention plans would be included once engineered plans are developed.

Council Member Hilst further asked about code requirements for sidewalks in private developments. City Engineer, Josie Esker, clarified that the code requires sidewalks along public rights-of-way but not within private developments. Council Member Hilst sought to ensure there would be no issues and asked about ADA requirements. Ms. Esker confirmed that ADA laws do not mandate sidewalks on Velde in the code but that the City requires it.

Council Member Abel asked about the situation with the funeral home, and Ms. Esker, not being the engineer at that time, stated that she would have required sidewalks if she had reviewed those plans.

Council Member Nutter thanked Mr. Hornecker for the development and inquired about curbs, to which Mr. Hornecker confirmed their inclusion.

Mayor Burress echoed Council Member Nutter's thanks, expressing appreciation for bringing the complex to the city.

Council Member Orrick clarified that even though the roads in the development are private and do not meet city street requirements, they would not fall under city maintenance. Ms. Esker confirmed this, and Mr. Hornecker stated that the units would be rental properties.

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick

SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

7.2. Ordinance No. 4203-24/25 Approving the Sale of City-Owned Property Generally East of the Current Terminous of Brenkman Drive to Illinois American Water Company 

The Council discussed Ordinance No. 4203-24/25, which approves the sale of city-owned property generally east of the current terminus of Brenkman Drive to Illinois American Water Company. City Manager John Dossey explained that Illinois American Water has submitted a proposal to purchase and develop 1.9 acres of city-owned property located south of the movie theater at the eastern end of Brenkman Drive. They plan to construct a new water tower similar to the existing tower south of Koch Street, aiming to enhance the community's water resilience and improve water pressure in the area.

Illinois American Water has offered a purchase price of $37,104, equal to the appraised value. This property is in the Court Street TIF district, and staff estimates the development will generate approximately $100,000 in new revenue annually. Mr. Dossey recommended the approval of the ordinance, noting the financial impact: an initial revenue from the sale of $37,104 to the General Fund and projected annual new revenue of $100,000 to the Court Street TIF Fund.

Council Member Hohimer inquired about the location, and Economic Development Director Josh Wray clarified that the property is behind the AMC theater.

Council Member Hohimer also mentioned seeing someone spraying blue paint in the area and was curious about it.

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick

SECONDER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

7.3. Ordinance No. 4204-24/25 Approving Annexation of 13584 Manito Road (Petitioners Jeff E. & Elizabeth A. Todd) 

The Council reviewed Ordinance No. 4204-24/25, which approves the annexation of 13584 Manito Road, as petitioned by Jeff E. and Elizabeth A. Todd. City Manager John Dossey presented the details, stating that the petitioners had submitted a signed and verified petition to the City Clerk in accordance with 65 ILCS 5/7-1-8, requesting annexation of a specified tract of land into the City of Pekin. A map showing the location of the territory relative to the current corporate limits of Pekin was provided as Exhibit A.

Mr. Dossey confirmed that proper notice of the proposed annexation was given to the Cincinnati Fire Protection District and Cincinnati Township at least ten days prior to the ordinance's enactment. He noted that the petitioners are the sole owners of the territory, there are no electors residing within it, it is not within the corporate limits of any municipality, and it is contiguous to the current corporate limits of Pekin. Based on these factors, staff recommended approval of the annexation.

A public hearing was held on June 12, 2024, pursuant to Section 4-3-3-4 of the City Code, where the Pekin Zoning Board of Appeals recommended classifying the territory as I-2 General Industrial, aligning it with its previous zoning classification prior to annexation.

There was no further discussion on the matter.

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel

SECONDER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

7.4. Resolution No. 150-24/25 Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Grant Agreement with the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce Related to a Funding Application to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity 

Resolution No. 150-24/25 was discussed, authorizing the City Manager to execute a grant agreement with the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce for a funding application to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). CDBG Program Manager Tina Hauk explained that the Chamber, as an eligible applicant, would apply for a grant focusing on downtown revitalization, with potential funding of up to $3.5 million from the DCEO's $200 million program. This would support infrastructure, streetscape improvements, and mixed-use developments. The city would contribute funds upfront and receive reimbursements through the Chamber if awarded, ensuring compliance with ADA standards and downtown infrastructure needs.

Council Member Nutter queried the timeline and funding details, while Council Member Hilst raised concerns about the city not directly applying due to past issues. Council discussed the project scope, funding distribution, and the city's financial responsibilities.

Mayor Burress emphasized the community benefits of enhancing downtown aesthetics, while Council Member Hohimer and others sought clarity on funding logistics and project oversight. The Council ultimately agreed to proceed with the grant application through the Chamber, pending further approvals.

RESULT: PASSED (6 TO 1) 

MOVER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel

SECONDER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

NAYS: Council Member Hilst

7.5. Resolution No. 151-24/25 Approving 2023 CDBG Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) 

CDBG Program Manager Tina Hauk introduced Resolution No. 151-24/25 for consideration, which pertains to the approval of the 2023 CDBG Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER). This report fulfills HUD's requirement for entitlement grantees to detail the utilization of prior year's funds and their alignment with the 5-year Consolidated Plan's objectives. Ms. Hauk noted that the report had undergone a 15-day comment period, beginning on June 4th and concluding on June 19th, 2024, which included a Public Hearing on June 10th, 2024, during which no public comments were received.

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Rick Hilst

SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

7.6. Resolution No. 152-24/25 Re-Adoption and Amendment of Nationwide 457(b) Plan 

City Manager John Dossey introduced Resolution No. 152-24/25 regarding the re-adoption and amendment of the Nationwide 457(b) Plan. He outlined that since 1996, the City of Pekin has offered a voluntary 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan through Nationwide Trust Company, which serves as a tax-deferred retirement savings supplement for employees at no direct cost to the City. The proposed updates include adding Roth and self-directed investment options, along with amendments to ensure compliance with recent legislative changes such as the "Cares Act" and "Secure Act."

Council Member Nutter inquired about the update's inclusion in the employee handbook, to which it was clarified by Interim Finance Director Bob Grogan that while the handbook mentions the plan, details are provided upon request or sign-up, with representatives available to meet with staff.

Council Member Hilst noted the plan's inclusivity across departments regardless of provider, and Mayor Burress likened the plan to a governmental 401(k) equivalent.

RESULT: PASSED (5-2-0) 

MOVER: Council Member Rick Hilst

SECONDER: Council Member Dave Nutter

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

NAYS: None

ABSTAIN: Council Member Dave Nutter and Coucil Member Rick Hilst

7.7. Resolution No. 153-24/25 Approving Agreement with Middle America Government Consulting, Inc for Consulting Services 

City Manager Dossey presented Resolution No. 153-24/25 concerning the approval of an agreement with Middle America Government Consulting, Inc. for consulting services. The agreement pertains to retaining Robert Grogan, who had been providing services through GovTemps for the Finance Director position and audit assistance. With Mr. Grogan's resignation from Gov Temps, the City seeks to continue his services at the same rate until December 31, 2024.

Council Member Hilst raised questions about additional expenses such as per diem and hotel costs, to which Mr. Dossey clarified that the City would cover hotel expenses, while per diem and mileage would adhere to industry standards.

Regarding the contract's duration, Mr. Dossey explained the intention to retain Mr. Grogan to train a new finance director, ideally by early next year, with a possibility of remote work. He also noted a two-week cancellation notice clause in the agreement.

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Chris Onken

SECONDER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

7.8. Resolution No. 154-24/25 Approving the Purchase of New Dissolved Oxygen Sensors from Hach 

City Manager John Dossey introduced Resolution No. 154-24/25, which seeks approval for the purchase and installation of new oxygen probes from Hach for the aeration tanks at the wastewater treatment plant. These probes are essential for controlling the oxygen content and optimizing the operation of the blower system, thereby extending the life of the equipment. The requested amount for the purchase is $24,995.20, with a budgeted amount of $50,000 and remaining funds of $25,004.80.

Council Member Nutter inquired whether Hach is the sole provider of these oxygen probes, to which it was confirmed by Public Works Director Dean

Schneider that the probes are proprietary to Hach.

Interim Finance Director Bob Grogan mentioned plans to finalize the purchase by the next meeting using the standard field award method, considering Hach as the sole source supplier.

Council Member Nutter expressed support for this approach, emphasizing its practical benefits.

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Chris Onken

SECONDER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

7.9. Resolution No. 155-24/25 Approving Purchase of a New 1 Ton Single Axle Plow Truck from Morrow Brothers 

City Manager John Dossey presented Resolution No. 155-24/25 for the purchase of a new 1-ton single axle plow truck from Morrow Brothers. The truck, priced at $134,362.00, was the lowest bid through the state bid process for such vehicles. Morrow Brothers, located in Taylorville, IL, will provide the truck equipped with necessary features for both summer and winter operations, including a plow. The purchase aligns with budgeted funds of $390,000.00, leaving sufficient remaining funds.

Council Member Orrick noted an alternative option mentioning "local," but Public Works Director Dean Schneider clarified that trucks of this type aren't sold locally beyond Taylorville.

Council Member Nutter abstained from voting on related items due to family ties with the street department.

Council Member Onken inquired about the urgency of acquiring the truck, to which Mr. Schneider explained the need to replace an aging vehicle soon and accommodate new staff requirements.

Council Member Abel emphasized the importance of acting promptly due to potential delays in vehicle delivery times.

RESULT: FAILED (1-5-1) 

MOVER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer

SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel

AYES: Council Member Orrick

NAYS: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Hilst, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

ABSTAIN: Council Member Nutter

7.10. Resolution No. 156-24/25 Approving Purchase of a New 1 Ton Single Axle Plow Truck from Uftring Truck Center 

City Manager John Dossey introduced Resolution No. 156-24/25, proposing the purchase of a new 1-ton single axle plow truck from Uftring Truck Center for $139,708.00. This truck is immediately available and includes all necessary features for year-round use, including a plow. The resolution presents a choice between procuring a truck locally versus pursuing the lowest price option, given that only one truck is needed.

Council Member Nutter, while abstaining from voting due to personal reasons, expressed support for the decision as being prudent.

RESULT: PASSED (4-2-1) 

MOVER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer

SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

NAYS: Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick

ABSTAIN: Council Member Dave Nutter

7.11. Accounts Payable To Be Paid Proof List thru May 31st Council Member Hilst raised several questions regarding specific payments listed in the Accounts Payable proof list through May 31st, which had been moved to New Business item 7.11.

1. Constellation Payment: Council Member Hilst questioned about a nearly $12,000 payment to Constellation, believing it was for broker fees only. Public Works Director Dean Schneider clarified it was for natural gas services and Mr. Wray confirmed that it was not an aggregation program.

2. American Water Company: Council Member Hilst inquired about costs related to shut-offs, noting no dollar amount in the budget line item. Interim Finance Director Bob Grogan indicated he would provide clarification, mentioning that these costs are typically added to liens and paid once back fees are settled.

3. Cobbler Corner Payment: A $10,000 payment to Cobbler Corner for an invoice sent in July of the previous year was questioned. Economic Development Director Josh Wray confirmed the payment had not been processed previously and was now addressed.

4. Clark Baird Smith LLP: Council Member Hilst asked about payments related to police labor negotiations, to which City Manager John Dossey clarified they also cover negotiations with the Teamsters union.

5. Farnsworth Group Payment: Council Member Hilst questioned additional payments to Farnsworth Group for engineering phases related to a CSO project, asking for clarity on future costs for engineering. City Engineer Josie Esker explained that most design work is completed, with future payments expected to be around $50,000 for final engineering and documentation.

6. Riverfront Utilities: Council Member Hilst sought information on payments split with the park district for infrastructure upgrades, clarified by Mr. Schneider as a 50/50 split for upgrades done in the park owned by the city through an intergovernmental agreement.

7. County Treasurer Payment: Council Member Hilst questioned a payment related to real estate taxes but no dollar amount budgeted in Public Property, with Mr. Grogan explaining it was for tax expenses associated with rented farmland and previous land purchases.

RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) 

MOVER: Council Member Rick Hilst

SECONDER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick

AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken

Any Other Business To Come Before The Council 

City Manager John Mr. Dossey provided a reminder about the upcoming July 4th event, scheduled for 9 am, where the contents of the historical time capsule will be revealed to the public.

Fire Chief Trent Reeise reported a significant incident involving a pressure fire that affected six structures earlier in the day. He praised the fire department personnel for their efforts in extreme heat and extended his gratitude to the street department for providing necessary equipment, as well as to the police department for their assistance.

Mr. Grogan delivered an update on the ongoing audit, stating that fieldwork has been completed and the audit team is awaiting the presentation of the current audit. He noted that there are no pending requirements from the city at this time.

City Engineer Ms. Esker addressed numerous inquiries regarding the redesign of the intersection at Court and Parkway. She emphasized that the primary concern has been to enhance safety due to the intersection's history of traffic incidents. The redesign will include changes to lane patterns on Parkway and prohibit left turns near the intersection. Signage will be installed to guide drivers.

Council Member Hohimer asked whether one of the entrances into Casey's would be closed. Ms. Esker confirmed that there would still be an opening. Council Member Hohimer shared his personal experience of needing to brake suddenly when someone pulls out close to the intersection. Ms. Esker mentioned that Casey's had requested to keep the openings.

Council Member Abel inquired about the left turn by Missy's, and Ms. Esker clarified that it would no longer be allowed.

Mr. Dossey explained that due to federal funding, certain safety measures must be followed, and Ms. Esker added that the redesign needs IDOT approval. She mentioned that there isn't enough space to fit a left turn lane.

Council Member Orrick pointed out similar issues on Parkway and Court, near Panda Express and a doughnut shop. Ms. Esker suggested that reviewing a map together might simplify understanding the changes.

Council Member Hilst noted that drive-thrus are designated as special use and are therefore subject to specific regulations.

Council Member Nutter questioned the ownership of the road behind Cottage Grove, asking if it was city property. Ms. Esker explained that it is a private entrance for the mall, and Mr. Dossey added that it is a shopping center entrance.

Council Member Nutter then asked if the mall maintains the entrance, to which Ms. Esker responded affirmatively.

Council Member Hilst asked for clarification on the specific street, and Council Member Orrick inquired about the number of accidents at the intersection. Ms. Esker promised to provide the accident statistics.

Council Member Hilst raised concerns about stipends for contracts, asking who receives the stipend for the treasurer position. Mr. Dossey confirmed that Assistant Finance Director Roy Beckham receives the stipend.

Council Member Hilst also asked about plowing bike trails on Stadium Drive, and Ms. Esker confirmed that discussion was had between the Park District and the City and whomever reached this trail first would plow.

Council Member Hilst then directed a question to Fire Chief Reeise about billing assisted living facilities for services. Fire Chief Reeise clarified that the ordinance applies only to nursing homes and that most residents in assisted living facilities are sent to hospitals.

Council Member Hilst sought further clarification on the city's policies and procedures, particularly regarding a complaint filed by Mr. Keith Dunkelbarger for not following rules. Mr. Dossey explained that the city was trying to manage costs and contractual obligations without eliminating positions. He mentioned instances of economic development opportunities being compromised, causing discomfort among city staff.

Mayor Burress noted the difficulty in managing these issues publicly.

Council Member Nutter acknowledged discussing the matter with Mr. Dunkelbarger, and Mr. Dossey acknowledged the assumption that Mr. Dunkelbarger was aware of the situation.

Council Member Hilst stressed the importance of due process and proper communication. Mr. Dossey took responsibility for not distributing the correct forms and highlighted the confusion among staff. City Clerk Sue McMillan mentioned that Mr. Dunkelbarger was informed about the correct form. Mr. Dossey noted discrepancies in addresses provided by Mr. Dunkelbarger and the city's records, emphasizing the need to resolve the issue without further complications.

Council Member Abel complimented the recent city employee picnic, thanking the chefs for their work.

Council Member Hohimer echoed Council Member Abel's sentiments, praising the enjoyable event despite the hot weather.

Council Member Orrick inquired about the status of land owned by the county and the ongoing fence situation. Mr. Dossey mentioned the need to contact Mike for updates, and Ms. Esker noted that the sidewalk on Capitol had been removed but would be replaced. Mayor Burress added that Sheriff Lauer confirmed the project was moving forward despite increased costs.

Mr. Grogan discussed the real estate taxes, explaining that some charges from the previous fiscal year were an oversight. He assured that this issue would be addressed.

Council Member Onken praised Public Works Director Dean Schneider and his team for removing a large tree stump and repairing the sidewalk and street at 14th and Caroline, commending their excellent work.

Council Member Nutter asked about the progress of replacing Mr. Grogan, with Mr. Dossey stating that interviews are ongoing and expressing optimism about a potential candidate. Mr. Dossey mentioned the possibility of hiring a headhunter if the current search does not succeed.

Council Member Nutter also inquired about the splash pad project by the riverfront, and Mr. Schneider reported delays but anticipated an August or September opening. Ms. Esker expressed frustration with the contractor's delays.

Counicl Member Nutter emphasized the need to update the ethics complaint form and ensure compliance with council policies. He mentioned concerns about the Hornbecker property and the potential loss of revenue due to incorrect property assessments.

Mayor Burress thanked the council for attending the employee recognition luncheon and acknowledged Council Member Nutter's role in Flag Day and Council Member Hohimer's service as Mayor Pro Tem at the last meeting. She reminded everyone about the time capsule event at the Woolsey Building, highlighting historical items from the 1800s and 1952, with the current capsule being 50 years old.

Executive Session 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) 

Adjourn 

There being no further business to come to the Council a motion was made by Council Member Nutter seconded by Councilmember Abel to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried viva voice vote. Mayor Burress adjourned the meeting at 7:32 PM.

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