Peoria Standard

City of Peoria City Council met July 23.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

A Regular Meeting of the City Council of Peoria, Illinois,was held on Tuesday, July 23, 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, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Oyler, Riggenbach, Velpula, Mayor Ali — 8; Absent: Grayeb, Kelly, Vespa - 3.

INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

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

PROCLAMATIONS COMMENDATIONSETC.

Peoria County Flag Presentation

Peoria County Board Chairperson James Dillon presented the County's new official flag to the Peoria City Council, designed through a public competition. He announced plans to introduce the flag to all municipalities in Peoria County. Mayor Ali thanked Chairperson Dillon and Board Member Danny Phelan for presenting the proclamation and the Peoria County flag.

MINUTES

Council Member Riggenbach moved to approve the minutes of the July 9, 2024, Joint City Council &Town Board Meeting, as printed; seconded by Council Member Jackson.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Oyler, Riggenbach, Velpula, Mayor Ali— 8; Nays: None.

CITY OF PEORIA - PETITIONS REMONSTRANCES& COMMUNICATIONS

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS BY OMNIBUSVOTE WITH RECOMMENDATIONSAS OUTLINED

(24-216) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request to Approve the Low Bid and Award a Contract to Laser Electric for the Prospect Road Street Lighting Improvements, in the Amount of $483,438.43, with an Additional Authorization of $48,341.57 (10%) for Contingencies, for a Total Contract Award of $531,780.00.

(24-217) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request to Approve the Low Bid and Award a Contract to Oberlander Electric for the 2024 Street Light Replacement - SW Adams Street, in the Amount of $398,526.50 with an Additional Authorization of $39,852.50 (10%) for Contingencies, for a Total Contract Award of $438,379.00.

(24-213) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request to Approve the Low Bid and Award a Contract to Otto Baum Company, Inc. for the Nebraska Reconstruction from Sterling Avenue to l-74, in the Amount of $3,994,312.56 with an Additional Authorization of $399,431.44 (10%) for Contingencies, for a Total Contract Award of $4,393,744.00. (Council District 1)

(24-219) Communication from the City Manager and Interim Director of Human Resources with a Request to Approve and Authorize the Payment of a Worker's Compensation Settlement in the Amount of $351,200.00, plus $72,490.22 in Commission Awarded Wages, to a Maintenance Worker Injured on May 23, 2019.

(24-220) Communication from the City Manager and Fire Chief with a Request to Approve a Four-Year Contract with Image Trend, LLC, to Replace the Peoria Fire Department's Records Management System, with the Option to Renew for Four Additional One-Year Terms, in the Amount of $152,707.40.

(24-221)

Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request to Approve the Following:

A. Approve a 3-Year Contract with The Cleaning Source, for the First Year Base Amount of $284,471.00, for Janitorial Services to City Building Groups 3 and 4; and,

B. Approve a 3-Year Contract with A New View Cleaning Service, for the First Year Base Amount of $21,746.00, for Janitorial Services to City Building Group 5; and,

C. Approve a 3-Year Contract with PHD, for the First Year Base Amount of $96,519.28, for Janitorial Services to City Building Groups 2 and 3.

(24-222) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request to Approve a Two-Year Contract for the 2024 Towing and Storage Contract with Joe's Towing Recovery and Mr. Tow Its Wrecker Service Inc.

(24-223) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request to Approve a Two-Year Contract for the 2024 lnoperable Unit Recycling Contract with Jimax Landscaping LLC.

(24-224) Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a Request to Approve the Site Application for a Class B (Restaurant, 50% Food) Liquor License, with On-Site Consumption and Retail Sale of Alcohol for

Popup Express, LLC, dlbla Popup Chicken Shop, at 800 SW Adams, Suite 106, with a Recommendation from the Liquor Commission to Approve. (Council District 1)

(24-225) Communication from the City Manager, Director of Public Works, and Finance Director/Comptroller with a Request to Receive and File a Report from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)Title Documentation Review #77.

Mayor Alidetermined no Council Members wished to have items removed for further discussion.

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

Item Nos. 24—216through 24-225 were approved as outlined on the Consent Agenda by roll call vote under the Omnibus Vote Designation.

Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Oyler, Riggenbach, Velpula, Mayor Ali — 8; Nays: None.

FIRST READINGS

(24-226) Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a Request to Receive and File a First Reading of an Ordinance Creating Chapter 27, Article I, Section 2 of the Code of the City of Peoria, to Authorize Liens for Delinquent Municipal Taxes.

Corporation Counsel Hayes said the proposed Ordinance would allow the City of Peoria to place liens on properties with delinquent municipal taxes to protect City interests. He said the Ordinance would be scheduled for the August 13, 2024, City Council Meeting for adoption.

Council Member Cyr moved to receive and file a first reading of an Ordinance creating Chapter 27, Article l, Section 2 of the Code of the City of Peoria, to authorize liens for delinquent municipal taxes; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Council Member Velpula raised questions about the criteria for pursuing a tax lien, anticipated challenges during implementation, and administrative costs. Corporation Counsel Hayes explained that the lien would target the property’s value and provide an additional resource for the City. He addressed potential challenges, stating the property owner would be responsible for lien removal costs.

Council Member Riggenbach expressed support for the proposed Ordinance but inquired about the recourse for tenants with landlords who were delinquent on municipal taxes. Corporation Counsel Hayes clarified the tax lien would target property owners, not renters, stating that while the toll might be utilized infrequently, it was an important tool for the City to possess. He said rental properties had different regulations, including daily fines for Ordinance violations.

In response to Mayor Ali's question about the costs associated with the liens, Corporation Counsel Hayes confirmed that the costs were reclaimed when the lien was paid off

Council Member Allen said he appreciated the clarification regarding rental properties and inquired about whether the proposed tool was used in other municipalities. Corporation Counsel Hayes said he would research what other municipalities comparable to Peoria used. He emphasized the tool was not suitable for all cases. He said the City was targeting retail outlets with delinquent taxes, particularly those who own the property they operate on.

Motion to receive and file a first reading of an Ordinance creating Chapter 27, Article I, Section 2 of the Code of the City of Peoria, to authorize liens for delinquent municipal taxes was approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Oyler, Riggenbach, Velpula, Mayor Ali 8; Nays: None.

CLERK'SNOTE: Item No. 24-226 willbe on the August 13, 2024, City Council Meeting Agenda.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS lncludin but Not Limited to Motions to Reconsider Items if An from the Previous Re ular Meetin

(24-171) Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a Request to Deny the Site Application for a Class B (Restaurant, 50% Food) Liquor License, with On-Site Consumption and Retail Sale of Alcohol for Empire Lounge, LLC., dIb/a Empire Lounge, at 3033 N. Sterling, with a Recommendation from the Liquor Commission to Deny. (Council District 1)

Corporation Counsel Hayes advised the Council that previous Site Approval applications for the location were denied or withdrawn, stating that following neighborhood opposition, Staff recommended denial at the June 25, 2024, City Council Meeting, which resulted in Council Member Jackson requesting a one-month deferral.

Council Member Jackson moved to grant privilege of the floor to the petitioner and individuals interested in providing input regarding the Site Approval application. Hearing no objection, Mayor Ali granted privilege of the floor to John Sims and interested community members.

John Sims, applicant for Empire Lounge, appealed the recommendation of the Liquor Commission to deny the Site Application, admitting to the incident on January 6, 2024, but he denied it was a large party and explained it was a private dinner. He accepted responsibility for the miscommunication that led to the incident, stating that six successful events had occurred since then. He challenged the accuracy of the information provided by City officials to the Liquor Commission regarding violations, claiming false representations about the number of violations, the status of the Certificate of Occupancy, and the severity of the January 6thincident. He rebuffed accusations of racial bias in the process but acknowledged initial missteps in community engagement, and he expressed gratitude for the support of some community members. He concluded with the assertion they met all required conditions for the application.

Dennis Lippert, former president of the Wardcliffe Neighborhood Association, outlined the history of the Site Application, including Mr. Sims’ initial presentation and subsequent rejections by two neighborhood associations. He said they criticized the failure to engage with the community despite being advised to do so, and he referenced the incident on January 6thwhen he highlighted the conflicting statements from Mr. Sims about alcohol at the event and the subsequent incident when police officers were denied entry to the premises. As a concerned Wardcliffe resident, he expressed opposition to the business due to ongoing issues.

BillO’Brien, President of the Forrest HillNeighborhood Association, emphasized the goal of the association was to preserve and improve the property values of the homes in the subdivision, stating Empire Lounge did not accomplish that goal. He highlighted concerns reflected in the reports from the Police and Fire Departments, and he expressed a breakdown of trust within the Wardcliffe and Forrest Hills communities due to the applicant’s actions. He said that based on the lack of trust, he was asking the Council to deny the Site Application for Empire Lounge.

Ronald Givens, President of the Wardcliffe Neighborhood Association, acknowledged the divisive nature of the issue within the community but emphasized a recent meeting at the Empire Lounge where attendees expressed a positive impression of the establishment. He noted that while mistakes were acknowledged, the applicant committed to being a good neighbor. He stressed the importance of maintaining neighborhood order and said he trusted the Council to make a fair decision based on the information presented.

Devon S dnor said he supported Mr. Sims and Mr. Miller, emphasizing Mr. Sim’s acknowledgment of past mistakes. They argued against judging the business based on a single incident and advocated for the opportunity to operate a business. Comparing the Empire Lounge to other nearby establishments, the speaker questioned the basis for opposition and highlighted the lack of public objection at the meet-and-greet. He emphasized the desire to serve a specific demographic while maintaining a viable business.

Jackie Pett , a Peoria resident, expressed strong support for the Empire Lounge obtaining a liquor license. She praised the establishment’s appearance and emphasized a desire for a local dining option with alcohol service. She acknowledged potential concerns, arguing that existing regulations provided sufficient oversight and that the business would contribute positively to the community. She expressed confidence in the applicant and urged the Council to approve the Site Application.

Michael Miller, a manager at Empire Lounge, said he attended two neighborhood association meetings to address concerns. He emphasized a lack of initial communication and outlined plans for the establishment, including target demographics, security measures, operating hours, and a focus on mature clientele. He said the goal was to operate as a lounge, not a club, with events primarily during daytime or early evening hours, as a measure intended to prevent issues and ensure the business’s success.

Jonathan Vota said he had no personal ties to the Empire Lounge and expressed concern regarding the ongoing debate. He compared the current situation to similar liquor license disputes, arguing the opponents' concerns about property values were unfounded. He highlighted the negative impact of vacant properties on property values and emphasized the economic benefits of a new business, recognizing the risks of business failure. He suggested City regulations would address potential problems. He said he believed many residents supported the business but lacked opportunities to voice their opinions.

Council Member Jackson highlighted the importance of trust throughout the process, and she acknowledged communication breakdowns on both sides. She said while initially supportive of the restaurant concept, concerns about trust and consistency arose due to a lack of a business plan, premature advertising, and inconsistent behavior. She suggested a one-year delay to allow the applicant to demonstrate their ability to operate a successful business without the liquor license, and she emphasized the potential for a positive outcome but expressed concerns about the current situation, urging both parties to work towards rebuilding trust.

After she said she could not support the application at that time, Council Member Jackson moved to deny the Site Application for a Class B (Restaurant, 50% Food) Liquor License, with On-Site Consumption and Retail Sale of Alcohol for Empire Lounge, LLC., d/b/a Empire Lounge, at 3033 N. Sterling, with a recommendation from the Liquor Commission to deny

The motion was not considered due to a lack of a second.

After she received advice from Corporation Counsel regarding appropriate wording for the motion, Council Member Gordon-Young moved to approve the Site Application for a Class B (Restaurant, 50% Food) Liquor License, with On-Site Consumption and Retail Sale of Alcohol for Empire Lounge, LLC., d/b/a Empire Lounge, at 3033 N. Sterling; seconded by Council Member Allen.

Council Member Gordon-Young expressed concerns regarding the application process and considerations for inexperienced applicants. She acknowledged Mr. Sims's mistakes and emphasized the negative impact of his actions on the business. She urged understanding and support, suggesting mentorship or additional resources. Despite the concerns raised, she said she believed Mr. Sims deserved an opportunity.

Council Member Allen expressed the difficulty of deciding on the liquor site application. While acknowledging the potential for negative impacts on the neighborhood, he also recognized the applicant’s desire to contribute positively to the community. He emphasized the need for vibrant establishments in the City, stating he believed Empire Lounge could fill a void. Despite concerns, Council Member Allen said he ultimately supported the application, believing the applicant’s ability to address potential issues and foster positive relationships with the neighborhood.

Council Member Oyler said he was impressed by the establishment but expressed concerns about strong neighborhood opposition. While he was open to supporting the business in the future, he said he could not vote in favor of the site application at that time due to the negative sentiment among residents. He suggested focusing on building stronger community relationships before proceeding with the liquor license.

Mayor Ali expressed mixed feelings about the site application, citing concerns that arose from the applicant’s previous behavior and the manager’s current behavior in Council Chambers. She emphasized the importance of building relationships with the community and Council before initiating such a venture. While recognizing the potential for a successful business, she stressed the need for trust and compliance with regulations. Mayor Ali said she planned to vote in favor of the application but warned of potential consequences for future violations, including the revocation of the license.

Motion to approve the Site Application for a Class B (Restaurant, 50% Food) Liquor License, with On-Site Consumption and Retail Sale of Alcohol for Empire Lounge, LLC., d/b/a Empire Lounge, at 3033 N. Sterling was DEFEATED by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Gordon-Young, Mayor Ali — 3;

Nays: Cyr, Jackson, Oyler, Riggenbach, Velpula — 5.

(24-204) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request to Receive and File a Communication Regarding the Allowance of Backyard Chickens in the City of Peoria.

Corporation Counsel Hayes said Staff had been working on compiling the requested information from the June 25, 2024, City Council Meeting. He requested another deferral to allow for more time to determine the financial impact of backyard chickens, noting that a public announcement regarding the requested deferral was made to inform citizens.

Council Member Riggenbach moved to defer the item to the August 13, 2024, City Council Meeting; seconded by Council Member Cyr.

Motion to defer this item to the August 13, 2024, City Council Meeting was approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Oyler, Riggenbach, Velpula, Mayor Ali — 8; Nays: None.

NEW BUSINESS

Ordinance to Address Cam in on Public Property

Council Member Oyler asked Staff to prepare an Ordinance to address camping on public property in the City of Peoria and present it to the Council for consideration at the August 13, 2024, City Council Meeting.

Mission of Marc

Council Member Cyr recognized the Illinois Mission of Mercy for their recent free dental clinic event where over 1,000 volunteers helped provide $1.6 million worth of dental care to 1,300 patients over two days at the Peoria Civic Center. He praised the organization for their invaluable service to the community and congratulated Dr. Danner for receiving the proclamation at the June 25, 2024, City Council Meeting in recognition of their efforts.

Construction Projects

Council Member Riggenbach expressed gratitude for the Council’s approval of Item No. 24-216, the Prospect Road project, and Item No. 24-218, the Nebraska Reconstruction project, highlighting their significance and long-awaited progress.

Back to School

Council Member Allen highlighted the upcoming back-to-school season and praised the collaborative efforts from multiple organizations to host events and collect school supplies for Peoria Public School students. He thanked all those involved for their contributions to this worthwhile cause.

Crowdstrike IT Disruptions

Mayor Ali acknowledged the widespread IT disruptions caused by a Crowdstrike software update the week prior that affected numerous organizations including airlines and governments. She commended the City's Information Systems (IS) Department for their swift response in restoring computer and phone services. Assistant City Manager Kimberly Richardson echoed the Mayor’s gratitude, emphasizing the crucial role of the Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in maintaining essential services during the outage. She credited the Council's investment in the ECC for preventing a more significant disruption to emergency communications and praised the efforts of City Staff in restoring services swiftly

CITIZENS'OPPORTUNITY TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL/TOWNBOARD

Mayor Ali granted privilege of the floor to citizens wishing to address the Peoria City Council or Town Board.

Jeff Lero , a concerned citizen, expressed concerns about a neighbor who had not been fined for code violations despite multiple complaints. He requested the assistance of the Council in resolving the issue and preventing further problems. He emphasized the negative impact of the neighbor’s actions on the community and urged the Council to consider the potential consequences of allowing chickens within city limits.

Estrella Diaz, a concerned citizen, spoke regarding the International Court of Justice (ICJ) apartheid state determination, emphasizing the importance of the decision influencing the UN Security Council regarding a ceasefire resolution. She connected the plight of Palestinians in the West Bank to boarder human rights issues, including a recent murder in Springfield. She asked the Council to take action to stop Israeli atrocities and support the Palestinian people.

Tara Wood, a concerned citizen, expressed concern regarding a disturbing event involving a GFL employee mistreating racoons found in a trash bin. She compared the act to the situation in Gaza, and she urged the City to take action against GFL and implement policies protecting wildlife. She also called on the Council to support a ceasefire in Gaza, arguing for a similar approach of compromise and human values in both situations.

Darcie Cad , a concerned citizen, provided information to the Council in a red folder regarding the ceasefire resolution. She reviewed recent events in Gaza, the importance of a ceasefire resolution, the impact of recent ceasefires, and actions taken by the United Nations. She asked the Council to consider recent determinations by the ICJ, the tax dollars funding a genocide, and to approve the ceasefire resolution.

Imam Mahmood, a concerned citizen, mourned the loss of a Peoria physicians‘ mother recently, following a month-long struggle, and his personal grief after a baby’s death. He contrasted those feelings with the immense suffering of Palestinian parents, decrying Israel’s ongoing violence in Gaza. Citing the ICJ’s apartheid ruling, he called for global action, stating taxpayer funds fueled atrocities. He said despite initial silence, he urged local leaders to support Palestinian rights, calling them to be heroes in history.

Jonathan Vota, a concerned citizen, praised the Nebraska reconstruction project but urged similar improvements citywide. He criticized Peoria’s inconsistent business support and Council hypocrisy, demanding consistent support for citizen initiatives.

Hassan Name, a concerned citizen, highlighted recent primary elections and related costs, as well as potential motivations. He commented on efforts to improve Israel relationships, stating how it impacted US citizens. He said it was important to send a message at a Federal level, highlighting the funds sent to Israel annual with little return or benefit to the United States. He reflected on what that funding could accomplish stateside, the speech scheduled to take place in US Congress that week regarding Israel, and the need to stop the cycle of violence by approving a ceasefire resolution.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

It was determined there was no need to enter into Executive Session at that time.

ADJOURNMENT

City Council Member Allen moved to adjourn the July 23, 2024, City Council Meeting; seconded by Council Member Cyr.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Jackson, Oyler, Riggenbach, Velpula, Mayor Ali — 8; Nays: None.

https://peoriagov.civicweb.net/document/212244/