Rock Island Today

City of East Moline Park Board met May 14.

Here is the minutes provided by the board:

President Stombaugh called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm in the East Moline City Hall Annex.

Roll Call:

Present: Ald. Almblade, D. Kannenberg, T. Johnson, G. Lowery, B. Rusch, M. Spencer, B.Stombaugh, Z. Sullivan

Absent: R. Cervantes

Guests: John Adamski, Mayor Reggie Freeman, Theresa Martin- EM Exec. Secretary; Steve Hughes- Facilities Director Jacobs Northeast Park,

Steve Hughes was introduced by Mayor and T.Martin as the new Facilities Director at Jacobs Park. He takes care of fields, works with Theresa on scheduling. Says everything is going well – when it’s not raining. Had 7-8 tournaments so far. Moles are in check.

Mayor Freeman reported that a state grant of $50,000.00 was approved for EM to pave the walkway from parking lot all the way down to far concession stands. Freeman also advised that T. Martin gave presentation at Moline Foundation requesting funds for new backstops at Jacobs Park. Waiting for news on decision. Mayor also advised that Maintenance Dept worked on the road to far parking at Jacobs Park and is a big improvement. There is also discussion with EMSSC of making improvements to restrooms with a cost estimates in the $7,000.00 range. Further review of contract and discussion is needed.

Mayor Freeman advised the EMSSC has ran out of space in there storage garage and wanting to build a new one next to existing garage. There is ongoing discussion about City’s financial involvement. Motion to allow EMSSC to pursue construction with approval of City’s Maintenance Director and Building inspector made by Spencer, 2nd by Lowery, All in favor, motion passed.

Theresa Martin reported the United Way Day of Caring is this Thursday, May 16 from 9-2:30pm. JD employees to paint concession stand and both shelters –parts that are not going to be sided. Open to those who can make it. Was going to place down new mulch at Empire Park but still flooded.

Secretary’s Report: Motion to approve April minutes made by Lowery, Seconded by Sullivan, All in favor, motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report: No report. Need balance on Capital Improvement Fund.

Reports from Partnering Organizations: Mayor Freeman said the 95 team soccer tournament last weekend was wet but went well.

New Business

1) New board members: Stombaugh introduce new members Zach Sullivan and Tayvian Johnson to the board. All board members introduced themselves with a brief background.

2) 9th Street Park: Mr Adamski gave history of his involvement on parkboard in the late 90’s to early 2000’s as President, and his development of 9th Street Park. Requested the board use the proper name of for park as 9th Street Common, not “Commons”. Board to consider correction. Also he is asking for a modest sign with proper name to identify park. Mayor Freeman to review.

3) Removal of Tree. In 9th Street Common, Mr. Adamski requested the Blue Spruce tree, which looked good when small, is now too large, and needs to be removed. Adamski gave history of how park was created in remembrance of Alois Dussliere, of East Moline who was killed in action in May, 1945, on Okinawa, WW2, and other fallen Gold Star citizens. Does not want anything to block view of plaques, and to remain a contemplative area. Mayor Freeman to review with Maintenance Dept.

4) Signage of bike trail on levee. Mr. Adamski requested the board consider placing sign at EM border naming the levee bike path: “ East Moline Esplanade” Definition is: a long, open, level area, usually next to a river or large body of water, where people may walk. Word is of French and Spanish origin. Mayor to look into costs and advised if board requests a sign, it will need to be brought to council.

Old Business none

Other:

Hoops 4 Hope T. Johnson gave brief history of event held at Hereford Park and is wanting to do yearly improvements to Park. He and Adam Guthrie are highly involved in project and asking about financial possibilities for adding another bench for spectators at Hereford Park basketball area. Stombaugh explained, only the Capital Fund is for board to allocate. Johnson plans to raise $1500.00 in funds and is asking/looking for approval to install. Event is scheduled for July 31st this year. Almblade to work with him to develop site plan.

School Events: Rusch advised Glenview students will hold event at Mitchell Park on May 30, and Wyman Park on May 31st. Requested the grass be properly maintained.

Back to School Event: Rusch wanted an event to celebrate the kids going back to school. Johnson stated he is thinking of getting a band to play after the Hoops games and thought it would be good idea to combine the two. Further discussion needed.

Motion to adjourn meeting made by Lowery, seconded by Kannenberg. All in favor, motion passed.

Meeting adjourned at 7:00pm.

https://www.eastmoline.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05142019-543