Pekin City Mayor Mary Burress | City of Pekin
Pekin City Mayor Mary Burress | City of Pekin
City of Pekin City Council met July 22.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Skills USA Pekin Community High School winner Rowan Scott.
Mayor Burress presented a certificate of achievement and Pekin Challenge Coin to Rowan Scott for achievement in cybersecurity competition at the National Leadership and Skills Conference, where a gold medal was earned.
A representative of Skills USA stated that it was a State recognized competition, with Rowan Scott, Tyler Olson and Carter Williamson winning as National champions in addition to 10 that made it to Nationals.
Call to Order
City Clerk, Ms. Sue McMillan, confirmed all Council Members were physically present and logged in.
| 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 |
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
Approval of Minutes
4.1. City Council - Regular Meeting - July 8, 2024 5:30 PM
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
Public Input
Steve Sangalli requested the Council remove the rezoning issue of Richwoods Christian Church from the Consent Agenda for further consideration.
Matthew Johnson and Elaine Ritchey spoke against Continued New Business Items 9.1 Resolution No. 168-24/25 Providing an Tax Increment Financing District Inducement for the Redevelopment Project Associated with the Lutticken Farm Property and 9.2 Ordinance No. 4214-24/25 Approving and Authorizing a Purchase and Sale Agreement for the Acquisition of Certain Real Property known as the Lutticken Farm.
Elaine Ritchey also thanked the Fire Chief for displaying the banner of her grandson on Park Avenue.
Jennifer Fields spoke against Resolution No. 163-24/25 Approving Financial Support for Downtown Court Street Project Grant Application and requested Council give the reason behind their vote for Resolution No. 168-24/25 Providing an Tax Increment Financing District Inducement for the Redevelopment Project Associated with the Lutticken Farm Property.
Consent Agenda
Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer requested that Consent Agenda Item 6.6 be placed under New Business.
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
6.1. Accounts Payable Paid Proof List thru July 12, 2024
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
6.2. Financial Reports June 2024
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
6.3. Building Department Permit Report for June 2024
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
6.4. Pekin Police Department June Monthly Statistics
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
6.5. City of Pekin, Illinois Single Audit Report for the Fiscal Year Ended April 30, 2021 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen, LLP
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
6.7. Ordinance No. 4210-24/25 A variance request submitted by Roxie Roach for the property located at 1316 South 18th Street. (Case V 2024-12)
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
New Business
7.1. Ordinance No. 4211-24/25 Amending Pekin City Code Chapter 2, Article VI, Boards, Commissions and Committees, to Remove or Modify Regulations Governing Certain Public Bodies
City Manager John Dossey presented Ordinance No. 4211-24/25, which proposes amendments to Pekin City Code Chapter 2, Article VI, concerning the removal or modification of regulations governing several public bodies to reduce bureaucracy and enhance efficiency. The ordinance suggests the following changes: responsibilities of the Historic Preservation Commission would be transferred to the Zoning Board of Appeals; the City Tree Board, Human Rights Committee, and Mayor's Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities would all have their responsibilities transferred to the City Council by default. Additionally, staff plans to propose the removal of the Electrical Commission, with code appeals jurisdiction moving to the Zoning Board of Appeals, pending further modifications to the building code.
During the discussion, Council Member Hilst questioned why most responsibilities were being transferred to the City Council, except for those of the Historic Preservation Commission, which would go to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
Economic Development Director Josh Wray explained that the architectural and building-related nature made the Zoning Board of Appeals a more suitable body, though changes recommended by the ZBA would still be subject to Council approval. Council Member Orrick inquired whether historic designations would still come before the Council. Mr. Wray clarified that individuals seeking historic designation for a building would present their case to the ZBA, which would then make recommendations to the Council. He assured that the historic preservation regulations would remain in the code, with references updated to the ZBA.
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
7.2. Ordinance No. 4212-24/25 Amending Pekin City Code Chapter 5, Article IV Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Property to Prohibit Storage of Personal Property and Unauthorized Camping on Property Owned by the City
City Manager John Dossey presented Ordinance No. 4212-24/25, which aims to amend Pekin City Code Chapter 5, Article IV to prohibit unauthorized camping and the storage of personal property on city-owned property. The ordinance establishes procedures for the removal and disposal of personal property, giving the police department authority to address unsightly and unsanitary campsites. Mr. Dossey emphasized that while the police will enforce these rules, they will continue to work with the department's social worker to assist those in need.
During the discussion, Council Member Abel expressed relief that the city was finally addressing the homelessness issue, noting it is a significant concern for citizens.
Council Member Orrick questioned the ordinance's specific language regarding the prohibition of personal property storage, clarifying that it applies to individuals, not businesses or other government units. Mr. Dossey explained the ordinance aligns with existing codes and will allow the city to take action, especially along the riverfront.
Council Member Orrick also inquired about the logistics of impounded property storage and disposal. Police Chief Ranney indicated they are exploring cost-effective options and highlighted the challenges, including bug infestations. He assured that items typically have little financial value, and police personnel would handle inventory and storage.
Council Member Nutter supported the ordinance but sought clarity on its implementation timeline. Police Chief Ranney stated that, if approved, it would become a top priority, estimating a 6-week implementation period. He assured that the police department is committed to addressing the issue promptly.
Mayor Burress and Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer acknowledged the positive steps this ordinance represents.
Council Member Hilst raised concerns about the timing of the policy's effectiveness. Police Chief Ranney confirmed that, ideally, the policy would be implemented swiftly, with a 10-day notice period before taking effect.
Council Member Orrick also asked about the involvement of social workers during enforcement. Police Chief Ranney explained that while social workers may not always be present, there is a robust referral system in place to ensure individuals receive the necessary support. He mentioned that the social worker has successfully placed around 20 individuals in various support programs, addressing mental health, addiction, and other needs.
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
7.3. Ordinance No. 4213-24/25 Approve Opioid Settlement Agreement with Kroger
City Manager John Dossey introduced Ordinance No. 4213-24/25, which authorizes the City of Pekin to enter into a settlement agreement with Kroger to resolve claims of opioid misconduct by the state and local subdivisions. The settlement mandates Kroger to pay approximately $1.2 billion over eleven years to participating states and subdivisions to address and mitigate the impacts of the opioid crisis. The funds will be allocated according to the Illinois Opioid Allocation Agreement, similar to previous settlements.
The settlement also includes injunctive relief, requiring Kroger to implement safeguards to prevent the diversion of prescription opioids and to enhance their opioid dispensing practices. Mr. Dossey highlighted that this agreement is similar to other settlements the City of Pekin has opted into previously.
The financial impact of this settlement is currently indeterminable, but any revenue received will be allocated to the Police Department, consistent with past practices for similar settlements.
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
7.4. Resolution No. 165-24/25 Approving Annual Contract with DACRA Technology
Police Chief Ranney presented Resolution No. 165-24/25, requesting approval for an annual contract with DACRA Technology for $33,230.76 to continue utilizing their adjudication system software. This software is crucial for issuing and adjudicating traffic and city ordinance violations, as well as managing the administrative adjudication process. Chief Ranney emphasized that DACRA Technology is the preferred vendor because their services are significantly more cost-effective compared to Tyler Technologies, the only other company offering similar services. Tyler Technologies provided a quote of $43,400, and an additional $15,000 to $20,000 would be required for integration with the existing Axon software. The DACRA Technology contract has already been budgeted for in the FY25 police budget.
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
7.5. Resolution No. 166-24/25 Annual Network Licensing and Subscription Renewals
City Manager John Dossey introduced Resolution No. 166-24/25, which requests approval for the annual network licensing and subscription renewals. Mr. Dossey explained that in the 2023 budget year, the IT staff implemented new network hardware across the city's infrastructure and purchased a one year maintenance and subscription package at that time. As the expiration date for this package is approaching, the resolution seeks to renew the maintenance and subscription package to remain effective until September 14, 2025. The City chose SHI International as the hardware vendor for the initial sale in 2023. SHI International also serves as the contact for the maintenance and subscription package through the manufacturer.
Additionally, SHI is a State of Illinois Sourcewell-Technology Products & Solutions Contract provider under Contract #: 121923-SHI. Staff recommends approving this budgeted expenditure of $46,427.83.
RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS)
MOVER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick
SECONDER: Council Member Dave Nutter
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. 167-24/25 Directing Staff to Bring Forth TIF Incentive Agreements to Award for the TIF Building Improvement Program
A motion was made by Council Member Onken seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer to approve Resolution No. 167-24/25 Directing Staff to Bring Forth TIF Incentive Agreements to Award for the TIF Building Improvement Program.
Economic Development Director Josh Wray introduced the resolution stating that the program allows for up to $110,000 in awards for commercial properties in TIF districts, funding no more than $50,000 and 50% of eligible project expenses per award. Staff received 15 applications after publicizing the program, with the top seven prioritized by the EDAC based on anticipated impact.
Mr. Wray pointed out the staff recommendation to fund projects at full request until funds were depleted, rather than issuing several smaller grants. He noted the possibility of an additional $50,000 becoming available in the Fall due to prior TIF awards not being utilized. If additional funds became available, staff would return to the City Council for authorization to either fund the next project on the list or to initiate a new grant cycle.
Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer raised a question regarding notes about TIF funding in 2022 for one application, which was for a tenant rather than the property owners. Mr. Wray confirmed this was for Classical Dance.
Council Member Hilst made a motion to table the resolution until the next Council meeting of August 12, 2024, seconded by Council Member Orrick.
Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer inquired about the possibility of funds being available by that time. Mr. Wray responded that the end of August was a likely timeframe, with most agreements from the previous year expiring around August 23 if expenses were not turned in within a year.
Council Member Orrick asked about the timeline for agreements done the previous year. Mr. Wray confirmed the agreements had a one-year timeframe, with one or two potentially not moving forward. Any amendments would need Council approval.
Council Member Nutter praised the step in the right direction and suggested proactive outreach to last year’s applicants to ensure compliance with the program's intent. Mr. Wray assured that inspections and spot checks would be done to verify that projects matched the original proposals, and all receipts would be forwarded to Jacob & Klein.
RESULT: TABLED TO AUGUST 12, 2024 (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
7.7. Discussion of Regulations for Downtown Outdoor Seating
Economic Development Director Josh Wray initiated a discussion on regulations for expanded outdoor seating downtown, proposing to utilize public parking spaces for this purpose. Staff had contacted Pekin Main Street, which showed interest, and discussions with the City Engineer highlighted concerns about stormwater management, traffic, and ADA compliance. Mr. Wray emphasized the need to remove barriers in the liquor code to facilitate this initiative.
Council Member Hilst opposed the idea, preferring to maintain parking spaces, while Council Member Abel shared that local restaurant owners were interested, citing the success of similar arrangements in Peoria Heights.
Council Member Orrick inquired about obtaining the Peoria Heights code for outdoor seating and whether tables and chairs would need to be moved overnight, to which Mr. Wray responded that it would depend on the specific arrangement.
Council Member Onken raised concerns about limiting the number of parking spaces affected, noting that a business like Ashers could occupy a significant portion of parking in that area. Mr. Wray acknowledged the feedback about parking shortages from local businesses and noted that they generally supported the idea of outdoor seating.
Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to eat outside, especially for those working in the Courthouse, while Council Member Abel voiced a desire to see downtown as vibrant as Peoria Heights.
Mayor Burress asked about recent parking additions at Court and 5th Streets, with Mr. Wray estimating around 40 spaces.
Council Member Nutter inquired about potential concerns that could halt the proposal, and Mr. Wray indicated a need to consult with fire, police, and engineering departments regarding stormwater issues.
Police Chief Ranney noted that many communities are implementing similar programs and suggested that it could work here.
Council Member Nutter asked whether the seating would be limited to restaurants, and Mr. Wray confirmed it would apply to any business with dining customers.
City Engineer Josie Esker proposed three approaches: keeping parking by using sidewalks, noting that the sidewalks are 9.5 feet wide but require a 4- foot clearance for ADA compliance; considering a removal of the barrier requirement; or creating a more permanent solution by bumping out curbs.
Council Member Nutter shared insights from a visit to Utica, IL, where they had implemented sidewalk extensions with safety lanes for emergencies, highlighting the need for businesses to manage the spaces themselves rather than relying on the city.
Mayor Burress agreed, noting the booming businesses in Peoria Heights.
Council Member Orrick concluded by asking if the outdoor seating would be restricted to restaurants or if bars could participate, with Mr. Wray indicating it would be at the Council's discretion. He appreciated the feedback and committed to developing a plan based on the discussion.
6.6. Ordinance No. 4209-24/25 A rezoning request submitted by Richwoods Christian Church for the property located at 2221 Parkway Dr. (Case RZ 2024-04)
Chief Building Official Nic Maquet read the request detailing that Richwoods Christian Church sought to rezone the property from R-3 One Family Residential District to OS-1 Office Service District. The church intends to sell the property to Clanahan Wellness Center, Inc., for use as a chiropractic clinic, which is a permitted use in the OS-1 district. The OS-1 District is intended for transitional areas between residential and commercial districts. Future building plans, parking additions, or special uses would require Zoning Board of Appeals and City Council approval.
Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer expressed opposition to the rezoning, emphasizing the residential nature of the neighborhood and the importance of keeping it as such.
Council Member Orrick mentioned a state statute about denying requests with negative effects but saw little difference between an office and a church, thus not opposing the rezoning.
City Attorney Kate Swise explained the city's comprehensive zoning plan, noting that while neighborhood impact is considered, it is not the primary focus.
Council Member Hilst shared concerns about potential noise, permissible uses, and spot zoning, ultimately deciding not to support the rezoning.
Council Member Onken questioned the future of the building if not rezoned, with Mr. Maquet responding that it has been vacant since 2020.
Council Member Onken expressed concerns about the building remaining vacant and deteriorating.
Council Member Nutter, the closest property owner, noted that nearby businesses had not impacted property values and supported the rezoning change.
RESULT: PASSED (4 TO 3)
MOVER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer
SECONDER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick
AYES: Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Council Member
Orrick, Council Member Onken
NAYS: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Hilst,
Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer
Executive Session 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) 5. Purchase or Lease of Real Property for the Use of the Public Body
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer seconded by Council Member Abel to move into Executive Session to discuss 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) 5. Purchase or Lease of Real Property for the Use of the Public Body at 6:51 PM.
Mayor Burress announced that action would be taken after Executive Session.
RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS)
MOVER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer
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
Continued New Business
City Council returned to Open Session at 8:14 PM.
9.1. Resolution No. 168-24/25 Providing an Tax Increment Financing District Inducement for the Redevelopment Project Associated with the Lutticken Farm Property
Economic Development Director Josh Wray presented the request, Resolution No. 168-24/25 Providing a Tax Increment Financing District Inducement for the Redevelopment Project Associated with the Lutticken Farm Property, explaining that part of the terms for purchasing the Lutticken property (to be discussed in the next agenda item) includes the proposal to place the property into a TIF district soon after annexation. Establishing a TIF district is proposed for two main reasons: first, it can facilitate the redevelopment of the property by providing the Council with a tool to incentivize developers; second, it can allow the City to recoup the costs of acquiring the property, including legal fees, if an inducement resolution is passed before approving the purchase agreement. Approval of this inducement resolution would give the Council the option to reimburse the General Fund from the future TIF fund. Passing this resolution does not establish a TIF district or authorize any TIF payments; it only creates future options for the Council to consider, and it must be done before the purchase agreement is approved to create those options. Staff recommended approval of the resolution.
RESULT: PASSED (5 TO 2)
MOVER: Mayor Pro Tem Karen Hohimer
SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel
AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Mayor Burress, Council Member Nutter, Mayor Pro Tem Hohimer, Council Member Onken
NAYS: Council Member Hilst, Council Member Orrick
9.2. Ordinance No. 4214-24/25 Approving and Authorizing a Purchase and Sale Agreement for the Acquisition of Certain Real Property known as the Lutticken Farm
Economic Development Director Joshua Wray presented the request regarding Ordinance No. 4214-24/25 Approving and Authorizing a Purchase and Sale Agreement for the Acquisition of Certain Real Property known as the Lutticken Farm. Mr. Wray stated that the City Council previously discussed in executive session the opportunity to purchase approximately 975 acres known as the Lutticken Farm. Based on Council feedback, staff negotiated the terms of the purchase and sale agreement now before the Council. The purchase agreement details were sent to the Council before the meeting and were not made public to allow for potential continued negotiations. Upon execution of the agreement, staff plans to annex the land into the City with agricultural zoning and propose a TIF district to make the property more marketable to developers. The staff will also work with the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) on a subarea plan to identify development opportunities and challenges. The ideal scenario is finding a responsible master-developer for phased purchase, reducing the City’s financial obligation. Without a master-developer, the staff will market the property based on subarea planning, bringing development proposals to the Council as they arise. This project will increase the City's geographic size by approximately 10% and provide avenues for economic growth, generating an estimated $5 million per year in real estate tax revenue. Additional revenues from other taxes and fees are expected to support infrastructure needs and government services. The financial impact is $14 million to be paid over four fiscal years.
Council Member Orrick expressed concerns about the theoretical nature of the project, referencing past projects with limited return on investment. He emphasized the need for a study on resident impact and ROI and criticized the current road maintenance efforts, stating he would not support the purchase.
Mayor Burress countered, noting ongoing street maintenance projects.
Council Member Hilst acknowledged road work but raised concerns about funding priorities, mandated pension contributions, and the ADA consent decree's potential costs. He doubted the population growth projections and questioned the financial feasibility of the project.
Council Member Nutter agreed with the concerns, emphasizing the need to fix existing roads before embarking on new projects.
Council Member Onken recognized the opportunity for city growth and expressed support.
Mayor Burress agreed on the necessity of growth, noting the city's stagnation. Council Member Nutter suggested that if the ordinance passes, the Council should set specific goals and timelines for the City Manager to ensure accountability and progress.
RESULT: PASSED (4 TO 3)
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 Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council
Member Orrick
Any Other Business To Come Before The Council
City Clerk Sue McMillan mentioned that documents for the next election will be available on the website.
Council Member Hilst inquired about the status of the airport manager and whether the City is still paying two salaries. Public Works Director Dean Schneider responded that the current manager is expected to return in September, but if the call-up is involuntary, the City would pay the difference between military and City salaries indefinitely. Interim Finance Director Bob Grogan added that there is a cap for non-involuntary call-ups and explained the budget allocation for the airport manager's salary. Mr. Schneider noted that the military is retaining pilots, making the situation uncertain. Council Member Hilst questioned the possibility of hiring a new manager, but Mr. Schneider clarified that the current manager is a consultant. City Attorney Kate Swise mentioned that the city is required by state law to pay differential pay, and Mr. Grogan pointed out the complexity of this issue.
Council Member Orrick suggested challenging Economic Development Director Josh Wray to develop a clear plan and action log.
Counicl Member Onken announced the Downtown Super Cruise car show on Saturday, featuring Eddie Munster and the original car.
Council Member Nutter asked about the status of personnel, and City Manager John Dossey stated that a complete background check is being conducted on a Finance Director candidate, with an offer pending successful results. Council Member Nutter expressed support for moving forward despite voting against it.
Mayor Burress acknowledged hearing from staff and citizens and directed Ms. McMillan to handle questions for the city manager's evaluation, with a time limit for Council responses.
Adjourn
There being no further business to come to the Council a motion was made by Council Member Orrick seconded by Council Member Onken to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried viva voice vote. Mayor Burress adjourned the meeting at 8:44 PM.
RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS)
MOVER: Council Member Lloyd Orrick
SECONDER: Council Member Chris Onken
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
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