The Rock Island City Council met Oct. 17 to review community survey results.
Here are the meeting's minutes, as provided by the council:
The Rock Island City Council includes the mayor and seven alderman, each from one of the city’s seven wards. Council meetings are held at 6:45 p.m. each Monday.
CITY OF ROCK ISLAND October 17, 2016 CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
The Rock Island City Council met in Study Session at 5:30 pm in City Council Chambers at Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Dennis E. Pauley presiding, and Aldermen Charles O. Austin III, Ivory D. Clark, Virgil J. Mayberry, Stephen L. Tollenaer and Kate Hotle. Also present were Interim City Manager Randy Tweet, Parks and Recreation Director John Gripp, Economic Development Manager Bret Gardella, other City staff and Mike and Penni Steen, owners of Skellington Manor. City Attorney Dave Morrison arrived at 5:37 pm. Aldermen P.J. Foley and Joshua Schipp were absent.
PARKS AND RECREATION UPDATE
Parks and Recreation Director John Gripp advised that he has been with the City for 16 years and in May of this year took over as director of the department. Mr. Gripp stated that one of the first things he did as director was to review the 2015 budget. Mr. Gripp stated that at that time, there was a $900,000.00 deficit. Mr. Gripp explained that over $500,000.00 was depreciation, but there was still a gap to minimize. Mr. Gripp commented that a reorganization of the department was conducted and through some retirements, some promotions and the combining of some positions, there was a reduction of over $300,000.00 in expenses, salaries and benefits.
Next, Mr. Gripp advised that he conducted a review of the parks inventory. Mr. Gripp added that he looked at the inventory of parks and how much it costs to maintain the parks in general and the time spent on cutting grass versus actually maintaining the parks. Mr. Gripp pointed out that they continue to work on expanding their partnerships and look for ways to create new partnerships. Mr. Gripp further discussed this item.
Mr. Gripp stated that this past summer, three community meetings were held in which all were well attended. Mr. Gripp advised that they learned from the meetings that all of the citizens enjoy all of the parks. Mr. Gripp noted that during this time, they discussed and developed an approach that was worked out with Ballard King for maintaining the parks. Mr. Gripp pointed out that it is a three tier type process for maintaining the parks. Mr. Gripp explained that Type 1 parks are highly visible and utilized parks and they require the highest level of maintenance. Mr. Gripp added that these parks host a lot of special events, have a lot of amenities, lots of activity and generate revenue. Mr. Gripp indicated that Type 2 parks are moderately used parks; they tend to have sport courts, walking paths and seasonal activities. Mr. Gripp offered that the standard of maintenance is set with a focus on safety. Mr. Gripp stated that they may consider contracting out the basic mowing and trimming when that is all that needs to be done to maintain that space. Mr. Gripp advised that Type 3 parks are quiet, there is open space, it is peaceful and there is less traffic. Mr. Gripp advised that they need to identify areas within these parks that can be properly turned into naturalized areas. Mr. Gripp further discussed this item.
Mr. Gripp advised that he used the results from the Ballard King community survey in terms of how to classify each park. Mr. Gripp indicated that it would be usage by location and whether there are special events there, other rentals, garbage service and required weekly maintenance. Mr. Gripp further discussed this item. In regards to classification of the parks, Mr. Gripp pointed out that they need to develop a comprehensive written maintenance plan including a preventative maintenance plan; determine cost-savings/increases to maintain parks at each level; identify potential areas to properly naturalize; consider contracting out basic tasks in lower type parks; consider partnerships and friends groups to maintain all or certain areas in lower Type 2 and 3 parks; and work with the City to identify alternative use with an upgraded park element.
Mr. Gripp referred to the PowerPoint presentation and discussed which parks fall under the classifications of Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 parks. Mr. Gripp advised that Type 1 parks include; Schwiebert Riverfront Park, Longview Park, Lincoln Park, Sunset Park and MLK Park. Mr. Gripp added that Type 2 parks include; Hodge Park, Mel McKay Park, Douglas Park, Denkmann Park, Reservoir Park, Skafidas Parkway, Hasselroth Park and Wallace Dog Park, Haymaker Park and Old Horace Mann Park. Mr. Gripp commented that Type 3 parks include; Webber Park, Sylvan Slough Park, Ben Williamson Park, Rauch Family Park, Shadybrook Park and Realtor’s Park.
Mr. Gripp advised that he is considering contracting out mowing services for various parks. Mr. Gripp commented that if mowing services are contracted out, it will allow time to put together a preventative maintenance plan for the parks. Mr. Gripp further discussed this item. Mr. Gripp also discussed Realtor’s Park, which is located off of 38th Street behind Old Horace Mann School.
Mr. Gripp advised that they are in the process of reviewing all revenue generating facilities, which include; staffing levels, services, fees, energy audits and maintenance expense. Mr. Gripp added that they will review all special events, which include; attendance, revenue recovery, partnerships, sponsorships, donations and marketing. In addition, Mr. Gripp stated that they will review all recreational programming including registration numbers, revenue, program life cycle, new ideas and professional development.
Mr. Gripp then discussed the overall direction of the Parks and Recreation Department. Mr. Gripp advised that they are in the process of developing a comprehensive maintenance plan for the parks with the added time. Mr. Gripp commented that they will be evaluating staffing levels throughout the department as well as revenue generating facilities, recreation programming and special events. Mr. Gripp pointed out that they will strengthen existing partnerships and search for other opportunities and continue to work with various friends groups to improve facilities and programs. Mr. Gripp advised that they will also work with the Parks and Recreation Foundation to raise funds to support their mission. In conclusion, Mr. Gripp indicated that this whole approach will be a daily commitment that will have several moving targets due to seasonal changes, inclement weather, economy and competition; this approach will ensure that the Parks and Recreation Department will be as efficient as they possibly can be while providing quality services and programs.
Council and Mr. Gripp discussed plantings in the Downtown and gateway plantings as it related to the budget. Council and Mr. Gripp discussed Wi-Fi boosters as it related to RIFAC. Council and Mr. Gripp discussed outside contracting for mowing in reference to various parks. In addition, exercise equipment at RIFAC was discussed as it related to leasing options and cost effectiveness. Council and Mr. Gripp also discussed outdoor restroom facilities in reference to Denkmann Park and MLK Park.
DISCUSSION ON SKELLINGTON MANOR PROJECT
Economic Development Manager Bret Gardella stated that Skellington Manor has been a huge draw in the Downtown for quite some time. Mr. Gardella added that Mike and Penni Steen, owners of Skellington Manor approached the City about four or five months ago and they will address Council in regards to what they would like for the City to help them out with.
Mr. Steen stated that they purchased the Masonic Temple (Skellington Manor) in 2009, and spent about $600,000.00 in code increasing projects and making sure the building was going to maintain its integrity. Mr. Steen stated that the City loaned them $75,000.00 and it was paid back three years early. Mr. Steen added that they couldn’t have done the project without the City’s help at that time.
Mr. Steen indicated that they are looking to redo the parking lot and there are tuck-pointing issues with the building. Mr. Steen discussed a couple of projects that they are doing to help increase business and revenues and hopefully to add employees. Mr. Steen advised that they will be doing an escape room experience. Mr. Steen noted that currently, they have between 10 and 12 thousand people come downtown for the haunt. Mr. Steen added that they look at their business as being a gateway to the District. Mr. Steen offered that they are also doing the Thursday Night Swerve, which brings down a lot of local talents and they are looking to promote that more. Mr. Steen further discussed these projects.
Mr. Steen offered that they were very fortunate to get the building, which is over 100 years old and it requires revenues on a regular basis to keep it in good condition. Mr. Steen advised that it is to the point now where there is a need for the parking lot to be redone and the building needs tuck-pointing. Mr. Steen commented that they are trying to raise funds by increasing business. Mr. Steen commented that the cost for the parking lot is about $50,000.00. Mr. Steen pointed out that the parking lot has a lot of potholes and they patch it yearly, but that is only a temporary fix. Mr. Steen commented that they are worried about safety and security. Mr. Steen advised that the tuck-pointing part of the project was estimated at about $75,000.00. Mr. Steen commented that they would also like to work with the City to put signage on the side of the building on 5
th Avenue.
Mayor Pauley inquired upon Mr. Gardella as to what CED is proposing. Mr. Gardella advised that CED is looking for $50,000.00 out of the Downtown TIF and it would come out of the 2017 budget. Mr. Gardella pointed out that these are redevelopment costs that are necessary for the building. Mr. Gardella added that it will benefit the Steen’s business and the building. Mr. Gardella indicated that the parking lot does have issues and they want to make sure it is safe and secure. Mr. Gardella advised that the tuck-pointing issues are starting to impact what is happening on the inside of the building; paint is starting to chip away and it is from the water that is seeping in from around the windows especially on the fourth floor.
Mr. Gardella reiterated that CED is looking for $50,000.00 and the Steen’s would have to come up with the balance. Mr. Gardella added that a CIRLF loan has not been discussed with them, but the Steen’s may want to do another loan. Mr. Gardella advised that the time frame for the work to be done would probably be sometime next year in March or April. Mr. Gardella further discussed this item.
Mayor Pauley inquired as to whether the signage can be done through the Façade Program. Mr. Gardella stated that we would have to go outside of the rules for them to do that and it wouldn’t get done until after the tuck-pointing was completed. Mr. Gardella pointed out that the secondary issue would be what they would design to put on the building and we would have to see what we could get through the zoning laws.
Council discussed the presentation in regards to the $50,000.00 investment in terms of when it may come back to the City in reference to increased revenue concerning the business. Council also discussed the parking lot issue as it related to what type of process may be used for repairing the parking lot. In addition, Council discussed the Downtown TIF program in terms of how the program is set up. Council further discussed the presentation.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion made by Alderman Tollenaer and seconded by Alderman Hotle to adjourn the meeting carried by the following Aye and No vote. Those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Clark, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Tollenaer and Alderman Hotle; those voting No, none. The meeting was adjourned at 6:13 pm.
_______________________________ Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk
Rock Island City Council met in regular session at 6:45 pm in Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Dennis E. Pauley presiding, and Aldermen Charles O. Austin III, Ivory D. Clark, Virgil J. Mayberry, P.J. Foley, Stephen L. Tollenaer, Kate Hotle and Joshua Schipp. Also present were Interim City Manager Randy Tweet and City Attorney Dave Morrison.
Introductory Proceedings
Mayor Pauley called the meeting to order and led in the Pledge of Allegiance. Alderman Mayberry gave the Invocation.
Agenda Item #5 Minutes of the meeting of October 10, 2016.
A motion was made by Alderman Foley and seconded by Alderman Schipp to approve the Minutes of the meeting of October 10, 2016 as printed. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Clark, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #6 Update Rock Island by Mayor Pauley.
Books for Kids Trivia Fundraiser - Mayor Pauley stated that on October 20, 2016, the Lorene Evans Watts Memorial Fund for Children’s Materials of Rock Island Public Library Foundation will hold a trivia night at the Quad City Botanical Center from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. There will be trivia play, mulligan, doublers and rent a genius rounds. Mayor Pauley commented that light snacks may be brought in; while all beverages must be purchased at the cash bar. Sign up as a table or individual player for $10.00 per person or $80.00 per table. For more information and reserving your spot, please call (309) 732-7326.
Meet the Unhuggables of the Forest - Looking for an environmentally friendly Halloween activity aimed at all ages? Mayor Pauley noted that on Friday, October 21, 2016 from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, the Black Hawk State Historic Site will celebrate Halloween with a short walk in the moonlight to meet some of the Site’s special critters, such as chipmunks, foxes, spiders, snakes, bats and more. Hear the animals played by Augustana drama students as they tell stories about living in the forest. Inside Singing Bird Center will be a “show and tell” by Site naturalist Chuck Wester and refreshments. The event is free and for more information, please call (309) 788-9536.
Fire Hydrant Flushing Program - Mayor Pauley advised that the City of Rock Island Public Works Department started the Fire Hydrant Flushing Program October 10, 2016. Crews will be flushing hydrants for approximately a four week period. Mayor Pauley added that the purpose of this program is to help maintain water quality standards and the fire protection system. Citizens may experience brief periods of discolored water or low pressure, which is normal during flushing operations. Questions may be directed to the Public Works Department at (309) 732- 2200.
Not-so-scary Halloween Walk - Join the QC Botanical Center on Friday, October 21, 2016 for a thrilling night time tour of the tropical Sun Garden with the lights turned off. Come in costume and bring a small flashlight as the little ones explore the winding pathways in the dark. Search out many discoveries on this fun and exciting evening. Mayor Pauley indicated that all activities start at 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm and are included with general admission. Please call (309) 794-0991 for more information.
Fright Night in the District - Mayor Pauley stated that on Thursday, October 27, 2016, the Rock Island District will be full of spooky fun for children, including trick-or-treating, entertainment, live DJ, and a costume contest. The fun starts at 5:00 pm and goes until 8:00 pm. Co-presented by the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Department.
Agenda Item #7 Public Hearing on the Citizen’s Advisory Committee recommendations for 2017-2018 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding and CY2017 Gaming Grant funds.
Mayor Pauley closed the regular meeting at 6:48 pm and opened a Public Hearing on the Citizen’s Advisory Committee recommendations for 2017-2018 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding and CY2017 Gaming Grant funds.
Mayor Pauley inquired upon Chairman Linda Mohr of the Citizen’s Advisory Committee to present the committee’s recommendations for allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding and Gaming Grant funds. Ms. Mohr of Rock Island, IL stepped forward.
Ms. Mohr thanked Council for the opportunity to present the recommendations. Ms. Mohr stated that each year, the committee is tasked with determining the CDBG budget that will disperse monies in a way that will improve housing, the economic and social condition of the City, adheres to the guidelines mandated by HUD, aligns with Rock Island's Consolidated Plan, and most importantly, benefits low and moderate income citizens. Ms. Mohr added that the committee also works to ensure that the Gaming Grant budget that is being presented will disburse monies in a way that benefits Rock Island citizens with priority given to those organizations within the city limits that provide services to the youth in the community.
Ms. Mohr advised that the committee budgeted $910,000.00 for the CDBG allocations, which represents an anticipated 3% decrease in funds from the 2016-2017 grant year. Ms. Mohr commented that the committee received funding requests of just over $1.4 million dollars causing a shortfall of almost $500,000.00. Ms. Mohr pointed out that the committee was able to fully fund several of these requests and a significant amount of money was added to the demolition fund. Ms. Mohr stated that unfortunately, three of the programs received less this year due to HUD filing regulations, but it is the intention of the committee to have these funds increased in the next grant year.
Ms. Mohr advised that the City budgeted $50,000.00 for the CY2017 Gaming Grant allocations, which is the same amount that has been allocated since the inception of the program. Ms. Mohr added that each committee member reviewed 17 grant applications, heard presentations and had questions answered by all applicants. Ms. Mohr explained that they utilized an individual scoring mechanism with eight categories that corresponded to the most critical components of the grant application; scores were then tallied for each applicant and committee discussions on funding levels were conducted. Ms. Mohr commented that this process ensured a fair and open discussion about the merit of the requests, which totaled $94,945.00, with a shortfall of almost $45,000.00.
Ms. Mohr advised that the committee concentrated on those programs that were already established and would have the biggest impact on Rock Island citizens and the committee prioritized those that would be most beneficial to the youth and low to moderate income families in Rock Island. Ms. Mohr recommended that 14 organizations be awarded funding.
Ms. Mohr stated that CDBG and Gaming Grant funds enable the City and social service providers to offer assistance to those in the City with the greatest needs; the task of allocating these monies in a manner that affects the greatest good is certainly difficult, but a rewarding task. Ms. Mohr further discussed this item.
Alderman Austin stated that he can understand that even though River Music Experience sits in Davenport, we are talking about programming within our schools. Alderman Austin then inquired upon Ms. Mohr to explain the QC Community Broadcasting Group.
Ms. Mohr stated that this is something they also do with the schools; they are working with student ambassadors. Ms. Mohr added that they have a group of 60 ambassadors and they are working with them this year; they have expanded the actual group they are working with in Rock Island.
Alderman Hotle thanked everyone that served on the committee.
Alderman Schipp stated that he didn’t believe this is the first time we have seen the request for demolition so high. Ms. Mohr indicated that one reason it is so high is because everything else is fully funded. Ms. Mohr added that if any other additional money is received then it can be put into demolition.
Alderman Mayberry inquired as to whether the $83,070.00 will be used for demolition. Ms. Mohr advised that this is what is being recommended; anything that would be over the $910,000.00 that the committee allocated will go into demolition. Ms. Mohr further discussed this item concerning funding.
Mayor Pauley closed the Public Hearing and reconvened the regular meeting at 6:56 pm.
Mayor Pauley stated that decisions on the CDBG and Gaming allocations will be made on Monday, October 24, 2016 at the regular Council meeting.
Agenda Item #8 An Ordinance authorizing the issuance of three series of unlimited tax General Obligation Bonds, Series 2016A for the financing of roadway improvement projects at an estimated cost of $3,610,000 and refunding of all or a portion of the outstanding General Obligation Bonds, Series 2008A and 2009B; Series 2016B for the refunding of all or a portion of the outstanding General Obligation Bonds, Series 2008B and 2009A; and Series 2016C for the refunding of all or a portion of the Taxable General Obligation Bonds, Series 2014B.
Alderman Tollenaer moved and Alderman Austin seconded to consider the ordinance.
Discussion followed. Alderman Hotle inquired upon Finance Director Stephanie Masson to explain this item.
Ms. Masson stated that there are three portions that are part of the proposed 2016 bonds. Ms. Masson indicated that one of them is the $3.6 million dollars worth of street reconstruction work. Ms. Masson added that a lot of it has taken place in this budget year and some of it will carry over to next year. Ms. Masson advised that another portion of that series is to restructure part of the 2014B bonds, which was to fund the Watchtower Plaza, and so it is restructuring just a portion of those bonds, which is basically the principal that is due over the next three years. Ms. Masson added that the first principal payment is actually due December 1, 2016. Ms. Masson stated that the third piece of that series is to refund for savings four of the City’s previous bond issues. Ms. Masson noted that the savings looks like it will be about $250,000.00 over the remaining life of those bonds and about $100,000.00 of it is in the Downtown TIF. Ms. Masson commented that it is exciting to take $100,000.00 in savings over the next three or four years.
After discussion, the motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Clark, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, none.
Mayor Pauley stated that a second reading will be held on Monday, October 24, 2016 for final consideration.
Agenda Item #9 CLAIMS
It was moved by Alderman Austin and seconded by Alderman Clark to accept the following reports and authorize payments as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Clark, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, none.
a. Report from the Human Resources Department regarding payment in the amount of $13,130.05 to Barbara Miller of Rock Island, IL for General Liability claim.
b. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $16,905.50 to Seneca Companies of Davenport, IA for an emergency clean out of final clarifier #1 at the Mill Street sewage treatment plant.
c. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #12 in the amount of $202,367.16 to Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities Inc. of Moline, IL for services provided for the 2015/2016 Sidewalk and Pavement Patching Program projects.
d. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #3 and final in the amount of $134,886.24 to Walter D. Laud Inc. of East Moline, IL for services provided for the 25th Avenue Resurfacing:12th Street to 17th Street project.
e. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment #4 and final in the amount of $66,857.90 to Walter D. Laud Inc. of East Moline, IL for services provided for the 2015/2016 Brick Street Repair Program project.
Agenda Item #10 Claims for the week of October 7 through October 13 in the amount of $569,955.33 and payroll for the weeks of September 26 through October 9 in the amount of $1,482,851.10.
It was moved by Alderman Clark and seconded by Alderman Tollenaer to allow the claims and payroll. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Clark, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #11 Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding the hiring of consultants for analyzing Millennia Housing Development's request to establish two project specific TIF's (one for Century Woods and one for Heather Ridge), recommending Kane, McKenna & Associates.
Alderman Austin moved to take item #11 from the table and place it back on the Agenda, Alderman Mayberry seconded.
Alderman Clark stated that he would be abstaining from this item.
The motion then carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, none. Alderman Clark abstained.
Alderman Austin then moved to approve the hiring of Kane, McKenna & Associates as recommended, authorize staff to create a contractual agreement with Millennia Housing Development Ltd for reimbursement of all costs and fees associated with hiring the consultants, subject to minor attorney modifications and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents, Alderman Hotle seconded.
Alderman Clark stated that he would be abstaining from this item.
The motion then carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, Alderman Foley and Alderman Tollenaer. Alderman Clark abstained.
Agenda Item #12 Report from the City Clerk regarding a request from Brianna Watson for a street closing at 9th Street between 6th Avenue and 7th Avenue, along with sound amplification for a CD Release Bash to be held on Sunday, October 23, 2016 from noon to 8:00 pm at the Martin Luther King Jr. Park at 601 9th Street.
It was moved by Alderman Mayberry and seconded by Alderman Foley to approve the requests as recommended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Clark, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #13 Other Business.
Alderman Austin stated that on Saturday evening, he did a ride along with the Police Department. Alderman Austin added that he visited a lot of areas in the City including the nightlife areas as the bars emptied. Alderman Austin commented that he did not get to do a ride along because he is an alderman; he got to do it because he is a citizen of Rock Island and asked for the opportunity to do so. Alderman Austin commented that if anyone would ever want to do a ride along, please contact the Police Chief. Alderman Austin further discussed this item.
Alderman Austin stated that tomorrow evening, he will be hosting a ward/community meeting. Alderman Austin stated that it will be held in the community room at the Rock Island Police Station from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Alderman Austin added that if anyone wants to be there at 5:30 pm and take a tour of the new facility, feel free to do so. Alderman Austin added that there will be another tour after the meeting. Alderman Austin invited everyone to the meeting.
Alderman Austin inquired upon Library Director Angela Campbell to discuss the Rock Island Public Library Foundation’s Food for Thought fundraiser.
Ms. Campbell stated that Food for Thought will be held on Thursday, November 10th from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Ms. Campbell added that the cost is $40.00. Ms. Campbell indicated that there will be wine and beer tasting along with numerous chef stations, live music and a silent auction. Ms. Campbell further discussed this event.
Alderman Tollenaer stated that he remembers that Alderman Austin did a ride along years ago and he called it a powder keg.
Alderman Austin stated that he did his first ride along with John Phillips and that night it was tense. Alderman Austin stated that the City’s officers have a good handle on it and the District Patrol has really made a difference. Alderman Austin added that the bar owners as a group are much more responsible than they were two or three years ago.
Alderman Tollenaer thanked the Mayor/Liquor Commissioner and Police Chief for their vision.
Alderman Hotle stated that on Saturday morning at 9:00 am, the Broadway Neighborhood Association and specifically the Beautification Commission organized a neighborhood cleanup and it was a great turnout. Alderman Hotle thanked the Augustana College students for participating as well as the residents. Alderman Hotle further discussed this item.
Alderman Schipp advised that the press release came out today and it is pretty solid with the transition with Mr. Tweet as the City Manager for the time being.
Alderman Schipp thanked the Public Works Department under Mr. Larry Cook for the new sidewalks being rebuilt in the 6th Ward especially that stretch of sidewalk on 42nd Street and 7th Avenue. Alderman Schipp further discussed this item.
Alderman Schipp discussed housing stock. Alderman Schipp stated that one thing he thinks that the City can do a better job of is to look at CDBG dollars and other grant monies and see how much the City needs to put into demolition because the City has so much housing stock that needs to be done. Alderman Schipp commented that it is a result of 20 to 40 years of neglect. Alderman Schipp added that it is not just a Rock Island problem; it is a problem all across the country.
Alderman Schipp explained that it is much easier to put a few thousand dollars into keeping a home looking good with a fresh coat of paint and a new roof than to pay the demolition company and have all the materials towed away and then there is a vacant lot. Alderman Schipp stated that the greatest challenge in the next 10 years is maintaining our housing stock. Alderman Schipp further discussed this item.
Alderman Schipp stated that as Aldermen, we are getting calls from citizens that are at a crisis point. Alderman Schipp added that this is where an individual citizen is already at a crisis state or at odds with City staff and Aldermen have to intervene; we may know nothing leading up to that situation about what is going on and it puts us in a very difficult situation. Alderman Schipp stated that he believes that the City is one team and does not like being put in that position where he feels that he has to fight against City staff to be the advocate for his constituents. Alderman Schipp commented that to be better stewards of the needs of our constituents, the more communication that the Aldermen get at that level that can be shared is going to help us out in the long run; it is going to make much better morale between City Hall, elected officials and City staff.
Alderman Schipp stated that he would like for the study sessions to be recorded. Alderman Schipp explained that it is not just for the Aldermen who have full-time jobs and can’t make it to every single session, but it is also for the people at home who can’t make it here and will never see that information that is being presented. Alderman Schipp added that the study sessions should be recorded so that they can be watched on the website along with the Council meetings. Alderman Schipp advised that he would hope to see these changes happen within the next year or two.
Alderman Mayberry stated that we need new homes built out in Southwest Rock Island. Alderman Mayberry added that the City doesn’t need any more gardens. Alderman Mayberry commented that we are trying to make this City grow; it does not grow by having a bunch of gardens in town. Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Schipp and Alderman Hotle further discussed this item as it related to new homes being built in Rock Island and the Home Program.
Alderman Tollenaer stated that the last time videotaping study sessions was brought up, there was no support for it. Alderman Tollenaer stated that he clearly would support that; it is a resource. Alderman Tollenaer and Alderman Schipp further discussed this item.
Mayor Pauley stated that the issue will be researched to see what can be done; IT will be asked to look into it.
Beth Johnson of Rock Island, IL stepped forward. Ms. Johnson stated that she has lived in the City her entire adult life. Ms. Johnson stated that in the past year, she has been harassed by this City. Ms. Johnson commented that the stress has compromised her immune system. Ms. Johnson advised that she received another letter today from the City in regards to violations against her home. Ms. Johnson stated that it had to do with weeds on the north side of the fence and south side.
Mayor Pauley advised that the City Manager got involved today for the first time and he is going to review this issue to see what can be done.
Ms. Johnson further discussed these issues.
Agenda Item #14 Executive Session on Personnel, Property Acquisition and Litigation.
A motion was made by Alderman Foley and seconded by Alderman Hotle at 7:23 pm to recess to Executive Session on matters of Personnel, Property Acquisition and Litigation. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Clark, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, none.
Agenda Item #15 Recess
Mayor Pauley reconvened the regular meeting at 7:56 pm. A motion was made by Alderman Mayberry and seconded by Alderman Hotle to recess to 5:30 pm, Monday, October 24, 2016. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote; those voting Aye being; Alderman Austin, Alderman Clark, Alderman Mayberry, Alderman Foley, Alderman Tollenaer, Alderman Hotle and Alderman Schipp; those voting No, none. The meeting was recessed at 7:57 pm.
_______________________________ Aleisha L. Patchin, City Clerk
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