Peoria Standard

City of Peoria City Council met July 8.

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, July 8, 2025, 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, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9; Absent: Jackson, Velpula – 2.

INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

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

PROCLAMATIONS, COMMENDATIONS, ETC.

Great Neighbor Appreciation Week

MINUTES

Council Member Riggenbach moved to approve the minutes of the June 17, 2025, Special City Council Meeting and the minutes of the June 24, 2025, City Council Meeting, as printed; seconded by Council Member Oyler.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;

Nays: None.

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

(25-189) Request from the Town Officials to Approve the June 2025 Actual Expenditures and to Approve the July 2025 Anticipated Expenditures for the Town of the City of Peoria.

Trustee Gordon-Young moved to approve the June 2025 actual expenditures and to approve the July 2025 anticipated expenditures for the Town of the City of Peoria; seconded by Trustee Allen.

Motion to approve the June 2025 actual expenditures and to approve the July 2025 anticipated expenditures for the Town of the City of Peoria was approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, 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

(25-190) * Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request to Concur with the Recommendation from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Services Commission to Approve the 2026 CDBG Public Service Application.

(25-191) Communication from the City Manager and the Director of Community Development with a Request to Approve the 2025-2029 HUD Consolidated Plan for Submittal to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, with a Total 2025 Grant Award of $2,590,759.96.

(25-192) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request for the Following: (Council District 1)

A. Approve the Low Bid from William Charles for the MacArthur Highway Improvement Project, in the Amount of $9,359,072.53, and Award a Contract for the MacArthur Highway from Jefferson Avenue to the Bridge Rehabilitation Project, with an Additional Authorization of $640,927.47 (6.9%) for Contingencies, for a Total Contract Award of $10,000,000.00; and,

B. Approve an Agreement with Illinois American Water Company to Pay for the Replacement of the Water Main on MacArthur Highway.

(25-193) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request for the Following: (Council Districts 2,3,4,5)

A. Approve an Agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for the City's Participation in the D4 Traffic Signals 2025 Project in Peoria and Various Counties; and,

B. Approve a Funding Resolution for the City's Cost Participation in the D4 Traffic Signals 2025, in the Amount of $16,961.00, Plus Contingencies Not to Exceed $21,201.00.

(25-194) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request to Concur with the Recommendation from the Planning & Zoning Commission and Staff for the Following:

A. Adopt an Ordinance No. 18,273 Rezoning Property from a Class I2 (Railroad/Warehouse Industrial) District to a Class R3 (Single Family Residential) District, for the Property Located at 2708 NE Perry Avenue (Parcel Identification Nos. 14-34-426-006 and 14-34-426-007); and,

B. Adopt an Ordinance No. 18,274 Approving a Special Use in a Class R3 (Single Family Residential) District for a Short Term Rental for the Property Located at 2708 NE Perry Avenue (Parcel Identification Nos. 14-34-426-006 and 14-34-426-007), Peoria, IL. (Council District 3)

(25-195) Approve the Committee Report (Policy Session) from the June 17, 2025, Special City Council Meeting, Regarding an Update on Current Efforts Surrounding Homelessness in Peoria.

(25-196) Approve the Committee Report (Policy Session) from the June 17, 2025, Special City Council Meeting, Regarding the Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program.

Mayor Ali inquired if the Council wished to remove any Consent Agenda items for discussion. Council Member Allen requested Item No. 25-190 be removed for discussion.

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

Item Nos. 25-190 through 25-196 (except Item No. 25-190, which was removed for discussion) were approved as outlined on the Consent Agenda by roll call vote under the Omnibus Vote Designation.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;

Nays: None.

(25-190) * Communication from the City Manager and Director of Community Development with a Request to Concur with the Recommendation from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Services Commission to Approve the 2026 CDBG Public Service Application.

A revised Council Communication was distributed to all Council Members.

Council Member Allen asked for clarification regarding the application process and requirements for nonprofit organizations interested in this program. He also inquired about the funding source for the program, as well as why there were audit requirements.

Community Development Director Joe Dulin said the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Services Commission was responsible for creating the guidelines approved by Council. He explained that only 15% of the overall CDBG allocation from Housing and Urban Development was designated for public service activities. He said many questions were raised about the need for yearly financial audits, noting it was not a requirement but a strong recommendation from HUD. He noted that not requiring audits could expose the City to risk with federal funds, stating that if the City misappropriated funds, the City would be required to reimburse those funds. He explained that smaller nonprofits may face challenges that require them to seek assistance from a financial sponsor to complete the application process. He emphasized the City could be held liable if grant funds were misused.

In discussion with Council Member Cyr, Director Dulin clarified the makeup of the CDBG Public Services Commission, and the extensive work performed by the commission in reviewing and scoring the applications.

In response to Council Member Cyr’s question regarding priorities, Community Development Grants Manager Kathryn Murphy provided background on the application priorities, stating that commission members individually selected and ranked priorities, which were then compiled to create the application priorities. She explained this year’s priorities were focused on youth services, childcare, and support for victims of domestic violence.

At the conclusion of the discussion, City Council Member Allen moved to approve the 2026 CDBG Public Service Application; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;

Nays: None.

FIRST READINGS

(25-197) Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a Request to Receive and File a First Reading of an Ordinance Amending the Whistleblower Protection Policy for the City of Peoria, Illinois. Corporation Counsel Patrick Hayes said the Illinois Legislature amended the Whistleblower Act, resulting in the proposed changes outlined in the Council Communication. He explained the changes included expanded definitions and protected activities, noting that it allowed employees to refuse to participate in tasks that violated federal and state laws. Additionally, he said it expanded employee protections and created an enforcement mechanism for the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.

In response to Mayor Ali, Counsel Hayes clarified that the language in the proposed ordinance matched the language in the Whistleblower Act.

Council Member Cyr moved to receive and file a first reading of an ordinance amending the Whistleblower Protection Policy for the City of Peoria, Illinois; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;

Nays: None.

CLERK'S NOTE: Item No. 25-197 will be placed on the 07/22/2025 City Council Meeting Agenda.

(25-198) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request to Receive and File a First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 29, Section 2b of the Code of the City of Peoria Regarding Trees and Shrubs. (All Council Districts)

Public Works Director Rick Powers explained that the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) provided standards for tree maintenance. He said the City needed to formally adopt the standards to be in compliance with a grant requirement from the Morton Arboretum. He acknowledged Forestry Program Supervisor Shawn Johnson, who was training to become the City’s Arborist. Director Powers noted there were 14,000 trees maintained by Public Works Staff, emphasizing the proposed changes in the ordinance were already implemented and in use by Staff, and said this code amendment would show the formal adoption of those required standards.

City Council Member Allen moved to receive and file a first reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 29, Section 2b of the Code of the City of Peoria regarding trees and shrubs; seconded by Council Member Kelly.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;

Nays: None.

CLERK'S NOTE: Item No. 25-198 will be placed on the 07/22/2025 City Council Meeting Agenda.

REGULAR BUSINESS ITEMS, WITH RECOMMENDATIONS OUTLINED

(25-199) Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a Request to Approve a Development Agreement between the City of Peoria, the Greater Peoria Sanitary District, Copper Creek Holdings, LLC and Dean Custom Builders for the Extension of a Sanitary Sewer Easement.

City Manager Urich briefly explained that the City committed to installing a sewer line to service the properties owned by Pringle Technologies and Haven on the Farm.

Counsel Hayes explained the background of the item, noting the sewer easement was needed to finish the connection under the IDOT Maintenance Facility to provide sanitary sewer service to Pringle Technologies and Haven on Farm. He said Cooper Creek Holdings, LLC had a previous recapture agreement that expired in 2024, eliminating the City’s previous easement. He explained this agreement would provide a new easement while allowing the developer to regain some of the benefits from the expired recapture agreement. He noted the provision for the expansion of the Peoria Urban Enterprise Zone to include Grey Oaks Subdivision. He explained Dean Custom Builders was a part owner of the Copper Creek Property.

In response to Council Member Cyr regarding the financing of the agreement and the proposed timeline, Counsel Hayes explained that remaining ARPA funds would be used for this agreement, emphasizing that those funds needed to be spent by the end of 2025.

City Manager Urich said the Greater Peoria Sanitary District (GPSD) had executed their bids for the project, stating work was proceeding. He said he was confident the project would be done by the end of the year, utilizing the ARPA funds. He also mentioned US Senator Dick Durbin had also allocated a federal earmark for the sewer connections to Pringle Technologies and Haven on Farm.

Council Member Cyr moved to approve a development agreement between the City of Peoria, the Greater Peoria Sanitary District, Copper Creek Holdings, LLC and Dean Custom Builders for the extension of a sanitary sewer easement; seconded by City Council Member Allen.

In discussion with Council Member Kelly, City Manager Urich confirmed these types of agreements were common practice, explaining the developer had installed a significant amount of sewer pipes through a park district property, and the expired recapture agreement allowed them to pay for a portion of the cost. He said the developer had provided infrastructure that benefited various entities, explaining the proposed agreement was beneficial for all involved parties. He emphasized the deadline to spend ARPA funds was by the end of 2025.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;

Nays: None.

(25-200) Communication from the City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller with a Request to Receive and File the Month-Ended May 31, 2025, Unaudited

Financial Report.

Finance Director Cratty provided a broad overview of the unaudited financial report. He said revenues were down 1.5% compared to projections, stating year-over-year revenues were slightly up. He explained expenses were down slightly, approximately 1.5 million lower than expected. He provided an update on sales tax revenue, reflecting the recent changes to state law that were available in April. He said sales tax revenue was up about 15% over last year, stating that with that increase, the use tax will decline. He said he was optimistic about the increased sales tax, emphasizing this was primarily driven by leases and rentals. He finished reviewing the report by noting strong income tax receipts from the State, stating he expected recovery of former Personal Property Replacement Taxes (PPRT) to continue to struggle.

Discussions were held regarding PPRT and the Illinois Municipal League’s projections on amounts. Director Cratty said firmer figures would be presented closer to upcoming budget discussions.

Council Member Oyler inquired about the upcoming budget timeline. Director Cratty said the Staff had begun budget discussions, and departmental goals would start soon. He explained the budget timeline would be presented to the Council at the first meeting in August.

In response to Council Member Cyr regarding the recent overpayment of PPRT, Director Cratty explained that the State used a complex formula to determine the PPRT figures. He said there were overpayments to municipalities in 2021 and 2022, noting the clawback of funds since 2023. He said it was uncertain if that trend would continue.

Council Member Cyr inquired about the rise in sales tax revenue. Director Cratty said it was primarily related to car sales, noting that he felt consumers wanted to make bigger purchases before federal tariffs were set to take effect. He explained the remaining figures were due to purchases affected mainly by inflation, such as groceries and pharmaceuticals. He warned that sales tax revenues could decline when car sales return to normal. Director Cratty also provided a brief update on real estate tax revenue and garbage fee collection revenue, noting the City was on track to make the garbage fund solvent in the next few years.

Council Member Cyr moved to receive and file the month-ended May 31, 2025, Unaudited Financial Report; seconded by Council Member Gordon-Young.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, 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

Update on Auto Theft Impacting Local Dealerships

Council Member Cyr requested an update on auto thefts at local dealerships. Police Chief Eric Echevarria said regular meetings to discuss this problem were held with the Peoria County State’s Attorney's Office (PCSAO), the Peoria County Sheriff's Office (PCSO), and the owners of the local car dealerships. He said these meetings were productive in ensuring weaknesses, such as keys left in cars and faulty lockboxes, were remedied. He explained that many of the dealerships utilized the Police Department’s FUSUS camera system, allowing officers to view security camera footage. He said these meetings were very productive for communication, noting that he was optimistic about the decline in auto thefts within the City.

Off-Premise Billboard Report Back Request

Council Member Oyler requested a Report Back regarding an inventory of all off-premise advertising billboards containing location, ownership, and any record of complaints reported to the City. He said he was interested in reviewing the leases and research regarding how other municipalities handle these billboards, including an annual inspection and registration process.

Corporation Counsel Hayes said Legal Staff would prepare this Report Back to be presented at the August 12, 2025, Joint City Council and Town Board Meeting, noting some aspects would need more time before a complete report could be presented.

Short-Term Rental Considerations

Council Member Riggenbach spoke on Item No. 24-194, which involved rezoning an industrial property to residential to allow for a special use as a Short-Term Rental. He described the property as eclectic with historic charm and commended the petitioner’s creativity in its transformation. He outlined the Council’s review process for Short-Term Rentals and stated he had no objections to this request. He noted that City Staff had recommended against approval due to the absence of sidewalks, but explained that there is a provision requiring the petitioner to install sidewalks if additional homes were built on the block. He acknowledged this as part of the City’s broader commitment to complete streets and walkable neighborhoods.

City-Owned Property – Vacant & For Sale Report Back Request

Council Member Carmona requested a Report Back on City-owned properties that were vacant and/or for sale, including the length of time it had been vacant or for sale.

CITIZENS' OPPORTUNITY TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL/TOWN BOARD

Kathy McNeil, Legal Chair of the Peoria ACLU and a member of the National Organization for Women (NOW), addressed the Council to speak on LGBTQ issues. She drew connections between the women’s rights movement and current gender equality efforts. She urged the Council to place a resolution on the next agenda to consider designating Peoria as a Sanctuary City.

Shane Joslin, LGBTQ Chair of the Peoria ACLU, urged the Council to place a resolution on the next City Council agenda to formally designate Peoria as a Sanctuary City for the local queer, trans, and intersex community. They emphasized that this would be more than a symbolic act; it would demonstrate a commitment to protecting and affirming the dignity of a marginalized group. They referenced ongoing efforts by the current Federal Administration and several states to undermine queer and trans rights through attacks on healthcare, privacy, and civil liberties. They noted that while Illinois offers strong protection, they want to see Peoria make an explicit, official commitment to upholding those rights.

Zach Parente, a citizen of Peoria, shared that he was new to the area and currently struggled to find employment. With a background in public policy, local government, and elections, he noted that he was unhoused and staying at the Salvation Army’s Men’s Shelter. He asked the Council for guidance or support in his job search, highlighting his experience working on Republican election campaigns across the country. He thanked the Salvation Army staff for their help and expressed his strong desire to find stable employment and housing.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Consideration of a Motion for the City Council to enter into Executive Session pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5), to discuss the purchase of real property for the use of the public body, including discussing whether a particular parcel should be acquired; 2(c)(11), litigation, when a 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 an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting; 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 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5), to discuss the purchase of real property for the use of the public body, including discussing whether a particular parcel should be acquired; 2(c)(11), litigation, when a 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 an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting; 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 Riggenbach.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;

Nays: None.

ADJOURNMENT

Council Member Oyler moved to adjourn the July 8, 2025, Joint City Council and Town Board Meeting; seconded by Council Member Riggenbach.

Approved by roll call vote.

Yeas: Allen, Carmona, Cyr, Gordon-Young, Kelly, Oyler, Riggenbach, Vespa, Mayor Ali – 9;

Nays: None.

The Joint City Council and Town Board Meeting was adjourned at 7:09 P.M.

https://peoriagov.civicweb.net/document/222933/Joint%20City%20Council%20_%20Town%20Board%20Meeting%20-%20Jul%200.pdf?handle=AFC813CFE6404CA4943FBBDAE8F6BC9B