City of Rock Island City Council met Aug. 14.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
1. Call to Order
Mayor Pro Tem Healy called the meeting to order at 6:47 p.m. and welcomed everyone.
2. Roll Call
Mayor Pro Tem Healy asked City Clerk Samantha Gange to call the roll.
Present: Alderpersons Moses Robinson, Randy Hurt, Judith Gilbert, Jenni Swanson, Dylan Parker, Mark Poulos,and Mayor Pro Tem Bill Healy.
Absent: Mayor Mike Thoms.
Staff: City Manager Todd Thompson, Attorney Dave Morrison, City Clerk Samantha Gange, and other City Staff.
3. Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Pro Tem Healy led in the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. Moment of Silence
Mayor Pro Tem Healy requested a moment of silence. A moment of silence was observed. 5. Public Comment
Linda Hartstaff, a resident of Rock Island, came to the podium to address the Council. She passed around photos to Council members to review. She claimed the photos depicted destruction from the City's garbage trucks to her yard and alley. She said closing the street would disrupt the dropping off and picking up of kids for school and is unacceptable. She asked that the street not be closed.
Dave VanDerGinst, owner of Happy Joe's Pizza in Rock Island, addressed the Council. He said he was seeking approval of a Special Use Permit for property that he has owned for 12 or 13 years to be used for making pizza dough. He said he is seeking to utilize the lower half of the building, which has not been used for anything but storage since he purchased the property. He indicated it would be a small operation with two employees mixing and rolling dough. The dough would then be distributed to the other four (4) locations on the Illinois side of the Quad Cities.
6. Minutes
a. Minutes from the July 24, 2023 Study Session and City Council meeting.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the minutes as printed.
VV: Voice Vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Gilbert moved to approve the minutes with corrections noted; Alderperson Swanson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 voice vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
7. Update Rock Island
Enjoy free music at Schwiebert Park Thursday night from Lissie
Thursday Night Groove kicks off this week with Rock Island native and recording artist Lissie, who will perform as part of arts and music festival Alternating Currents. Concessions begin at 6 p.m. from Bent River Brewery and Happy Joe’s Pizza. The free concert begins at 7 p.m. right on Rock Island’s riverfront.
Join the fun and festivities of MLK Family Fun Day this weekend
The annual MLK Family Fun Day festival begins Friday at 5 p.m. with the Polyrhythms Bill Bell Jazz & Heritage Festival. The parade and Family Fun Day continues on Saturday, August 19, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at MLK Park on the corner of 9th Street and 7th Avenue. Enjoy live music, vendors, food trucks, bounce houses, a dunk tank, and other games.
Help set a world record!
Floatzilla, the largest paddle event on the Mississippi, is this Saturday. Launch your kayak or canoe from one of six different sites and meet up on Lake Potter in Sunset Marina in the afternoon for a group photo in an attempt to break the world record. Enjoy free music and food trucks in Sunset Park. Register at Floatzillaqc.org.
You can be part of the Labor Day Parade
The 39th Annual Rock Island Labor Day Parade is seeking entries. This year’s theme is “Planting Pride – Growing Together.” Whether you are a musician, clown, play an instrument, march with a group, drive a cool car or just want to walk, everyone is welcome. Those not in the parade are encouraged to watch it the morning of Sept. 4. For more information on being in the parade, contact Mary Chappell at 309-269-7944. The entry deadline is Monday, August 21.
8. Consent Agenda
All items under the Consent Agenda are considered to be routine in nature and will be enacted by a single motion and subsequent roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless an Alderperson so requests, in which case, the item will be moved from the Consent Agenda and considered as the first item after approval of the Consent Agenda.
a. Claims for the weeks of July 14 through July 20, 2023, in the amount of $537,486.65; for the weeks of July 21 through July 27, 2023, in the amount of $2,424,223.50; and payroll for the weeks of July 10 through July 23, 2023 in the amount of $1,733,152.88.
b. International City/County Management Association (ICMA) claims for the week of July 21 through July 28, 2023, in the amount of $34,082.43.
c. ACH Payments for the month of June 2023 in the amount of $5,460,308.83.
d. Purchase Card Claims for the period of May 27, 2023 through June 26, 2023 in the amount of $72,050.52.
e. Report from the Human Resources Department regarding payment in the amount of $35,496.72 to David G. Morrison, City Attorney, for services rendered during the month of July 2023.
f. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $15,886.47 to Brandt Construction, Milan, IL for the emergency sewer main repair at 6th Street and 15th Avenue.
g. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $19,710 to Greenspace Associates, Davenports, IA for the Sod Replacement Program.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve Consent Agenda items a through g. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Hurt moved to approve Consent Agenda items a through g; Alderperson Parker seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Alderperson Gilbert noted the ACH report for worker's compensation claims seemed higher than usual and asked if there was an explanation for the increase. Human Resources Director Rob Baugous approached the podium and said the increase reflects several months of claims in one report.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
9. Claims
a. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $42,401.41 to Langman Construction, Rock Island, IL for storm debris cleanup.
b. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $251,929.91 to Langman Construction, Rock Island, IL for the 11th Street water main replacement.
c. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $10,955.56 to Valley Construction, Rock Island, IL for an emergency sewer main repair at 25th Street and 11th Avenue.
d. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $10,242.67 to McClintock Trucking and Excavating, Colona, IL for emergency water main repairs on Blackhawk Road.
e. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $60,118.22 to McClintock Trucking and Excavating, Silvis, IL, for the Water Service Repair Program (WSRP) and the Sewer Lateral Repair Program (SLRP).
f. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $23,091.09 to McClintock Trucking and Excavating, Silvis, IL for emergency stormwater main and manhole repairs at 7th Avenue and 39th Street.
g. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $12,750.74 to McClintock Trucking and Excavating, Silvis, IL for an emergency water main repair at Valley View Drive.
h. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $147,322.28 to Five Cities Construction, Coal Valley, IL for the 37th and 46th Street reconstruction.
i. Report from the Public Works Department regarding payment in the amount of $114,251.81 to McCarthy Improvement, Davenport, IA for the water main replacement/relocation services in association with the HSIP project at the intersection of 85th Avenue West and Rock Island Parkway.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve claims items a through i.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Swanson moved to approve claim items a through i; Alderperson Robinson seconded. Alderperson Parker recused himself from the vote due to the nature of his employment.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 6-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
10. Purchases
a. Report from the Public Works Department regarding the purchase in the amount of $885,419.08 from Ferguson Waterworks, DeKalb, IL for water meters and an automated meter reading system.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the purchase as recommended. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to approve the purchase as recommended; Alderperson Robinson seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Alderperson Gilbert asked if the first order of 3,000 meters was for residential water customers. Public Works Director Mike Bartels responded affirmatively. Alderperson Gilbert asked how many total meters are needed for residential. Mr. Bartels said the City has approximately 14,000 residential meters. Public Works Utilities Supervisor Pat O'Brien said there is a five-year plan to replace approximately 3,000 to 3,200 meters a year in years one through four and then finish with approximately 1,100 meters in year five. He noted the plan is for residential meters only as the large meters were completed in the performance contract in 2019 and 2020.
Alderperson Gilbert asked how much the total project would cost for the five-year plan. Mr. Bartels responded that the price of the meters isn't going to change significantly from year to year. The labor costs are unknown at this time, and the $885,000 is to purchase the meters only. Mr. O'Brien noted costs in year two on will decrease as the software is included in the first year. Alderperson Gilbert asked to be informed of the total cost of the project once it is determined.
Alderperson Healy asked if this would allow residents to move to monthly water bills in the future. Mr. O'Brien responded affirmatively. He noted that the last time Rock Island did a major meter upgrade was the years 1998 to 2000. Generally, the meters have a 20-25 year life expectancy. The meters are not only older, but don't have the ability to do what most other municipalities are currently doing, such as calculating water loss on a monthly basis.
Alderperson Gilbert commented she is in favor of this project as it will be a huge benefit for residents.
Mr. Bartels remarked this project is tied to the overall ERP software package and the monthly billing will not happen instantaneously. He said the monthly billing would be rolled out in year four or five of the project.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
11. Contracts / Agreements
a. Report from the Community and Economic Development Department regarding an extension of the Consultant Services Agreement with Two Rivers & Associates, Inc.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the extension as recommended. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to approve the extension as recommended; Alderperson Swanson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
b. Report from the Community & Economic Development Department regarding an agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the agreement and direct the City Manager to execute the documents.
RC Roll Call vote is needed
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to approve the agreement and direct the City Manager to execute the documents; Alderperson Poulos seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
c. Report from the Parks & Recreation Department regarding a contract with Langman Construction for the Mel McKay Park Pickleball project using $300,000.00 in ARPA restricted funds and $84,200.00 in OSLAD grant funds.
Motion: Motion whether or not to award the contract using $300,000.00 in ARPA funds and $84,200.00 in OSLAD grant funds; and allow the City Manager to execute the contract documents.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Hurt moved to award the contract using $300,000 in ARPA funds and $84,200 in OSLAD grant funds, and allow the City Manager to execute the contract documents; Alderperson Swanson seconded.
Alderperson Parker recused himself from the vote due to the nature of his employment.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 6-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
d. Report from General Administration regarding a proposal for design services for the City Hall Improvement project with Streamline Architects, East Moline, IL in the amount of $58,200.00 using ARPA unrestricted funds.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the use of unrestricted ARPA funds in the amount of $58,200.00 for the City Hall Improvement project and authorize the
City Manager to execute the documents.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to approve the use of unrestricted ARPA funds in the amount of $58,200 for the City Hall Improvement project, and authorize the City Manager to execute the documents; Alderperson Poulos seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Alderperson Gilbert asked if there was a memo that went along with this agenda item. City Manager Todd Thompson responded that the agenda item didn't include a specific memo, but all corresponding documents and information.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
e. Report from the Public Works Department regarding a 3-year extension of the Sunset Marina Management Contract with F3 Marina.
Motion: Motion whether or not to extend the contract as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Hurt moved to approve the extension of the contract as recommended and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract documents; Alderperson Swanson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
f. Report from the Public Works Department regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with MetroLink.
Motion: Motion whether or not to authorize the City Manager to execute the Memorandum of Understanding as recommended.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to authorize the City Manager to execute the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) as recommended; Alderperson Swanson seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Doug House, representing MetroLink, approached Council to provide background information on the MOU. He said the MOU between MetroLink and the City of Rock Island is the first step of a regional local government effort led by MetroLink and other local governments, including East Moline, Moline and Rock Island County. This is a collective effort to maximize the region's position when seeking resources and grants for EV charging stations. Mr. House noted that this would be an expensive and challenging effort which would be better achieved through a regional approach. He said the EV charging stations can also provide an economic benefit to the region, as each station is strategically selected close to destination points like hotels, restaurants, and other points of interest, such as near the new Federal Courthouse in Rock Island. These charging stations attract electric vehicle owners to charge their vehicles near destinations that allow them to walk to restaurants, coffee shops and other retail centers.
Mr. House provided three top reasons why the regional approach and partnership is beneficial, including their experienced technical grant writing staff and engineering resources to execute the project. He discussed the next steps after the MOU, which include coming back to the Council in the future to seek formal intergovernmental agreements for the construction and the build-out phase. All stations will be uniform and standardized throughout the local systems for all cities.
Alderperson Healy asked how many EV charging stations they wanted to add to the City of Rock Island. Lucy VanHecke, Project Administrator with MetroLink, said City staff have suggested 3 sites be included in Rock Island. She noted Moline will have 3-4 sites, East Moline 2 sites and Rock Island County 2 sites.
Alderperson Gilbert asked what the cost was for one EV charging station site. Ms. VanHecke responded that for the level 3 fast chargers, which means you can plug your car in and it will be charged 80 to 100 percent in an hour or less, is approximately $100,000 to $200,000 depending on the utility upgrades and work that needs to be completed. However, MetroLink feels that it is extremely important to install these types of chargers on the Illinois side of the Quad Cities as it is the nexus of Interstates I-74, I-80 and I-280 with travel from Des Moines, Chicago, Minneapolis and St. Louis. As many more vehicles switch to electric in the near future, this investment will result in millions of dollars in the local economy as many will stop to charge their vehicles and visit restaurants, coffee shops and other retail stores while waiting.
Alderperson Gilbert asked if the state keeps track of the purchases of electric vehicles. Ms. VanHecke said that information was just starting to be collected. She noted fewer electric vehicles are currently being purchased in Illinois compared to other states. Alderperson Hurt asked how many EV charging stations are included at each site. Ms. VanHecke responded that the CFI Community Grant they have applied for requires four ports at each site so there would be four dedicated parking spots at each location with room for expansion if needed. Alderperson Hurt asked where the charging stations would be located. Ms. VanHecke indicated all the sites for Rock Island would be in the downtown as one of the stipulations of the grant requires the locations to be in a disadvantaged area of the community. The downtown meets that criteria based on Census tract information. Alderperson Hurt asked if the new downtown parking lot was one of the sites included in the grant. Ms. VanHecke responded that is separate as those charging stations are level 2 charges, so they take anywhere from four to eight hours to charge depending on the battery.
VOTE:
Motion Passed on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
g. Report from the Police Department regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the City of Rock Island, City of Moline, and Rock Island County for the purpose of applying for shared Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) funds.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the Memorandum of Understanding and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement, subject to any minor attorney
modifications.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Poulos moved to approve the MOU and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement, subject to any minor attorney modifications; Alderperson Gilbert seconded.
Alderperson Hurt asked if Police Chief Richard Landi could provide more details on the grant. Chief Landi said the grant is awarded based on crime statistics and they received this grant award last year, but prior to that, had not received it in 18 to 19 years. He said the City of Moline administers the grant now and prior to that it was the County.
Alderperson Gilbert asked what the funds would go towards. Chief Landi said they will be replacing the John Deere Gator they use for events to patrol and have had it for over 20 years.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
12. Ordinances with Reports from Departments
a. Report from the Mayor's Office regarding an amendment to the Code of Ordinances, Division 10, Sec 2-300.10(a) Police Community Relations Commission. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider the amendment to the ordinance. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to consider the amendment, suspend the rules and pass the ordinance; Alderperson Hurt seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
b. Report from the Community & Economic Development Department regarding the sale of City owned property located at 309 11th Avenue (PIN 1603201014) to Monico Diaz for $1.00 plus closing costs. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider, suspend the rules, and pass the ordinance. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Robinson moved to consider, suspend the rules and pass the ordinance; Alderperson Hurt seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
c. Report from the Community & Economic Development Department regarding the sale of City owned property located at 1323-25 6th Avenue (PIN 0735127014) to Prince Davis for $722.50 plus closing costs. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider, suspend the rules, and pass the ordinance. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Robinson moved to suspend the rules, consider and pass the ordinance; Alderperson Poulos seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Alderperson Gilbert provided that when suspending the rules, it should read: suspend the rules, consider and pass the ordinance. Alderperson Robinson corrected his motion.
In response to a question from Alderperson Robinson regarding whether or not a first reading of ordinances could be included in one consent item, Mr. Brainard and Alderperson Parker clarified that it could only be done with second readings of ordinances.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
d. Report from the Community & Economic Development Department regarding the sale of City owned property located at 1327 6th Avenue (PIN 0735127015) to Prince Davis for $658.00 plus closing costs. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider, suspend the rules, and pass the ordinance. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Robinson moved to suspend the rules, consider and pass the ordinance; Alderperson Parker seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
e. Report from the Community & Economic Development Department regarding the purchase of property located at 708 7th Avenue for $10,000 plus closing costs. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider, suspend the rules, and pass the ordinance. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Robinson moved to suspend the rules, consider and pass the ordinance; Alderperson Gilbert seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
f. Report from the Community & Economic Development Department regarding an amendment to a Special Use Permit for Route Six Equity Growth Corporation at 3204 27th Avenue. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to deny the amendment to the Special Use Permit as recommended.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Swanson moved to approve the amendment to the Special Use Permit; Alderperson Healy seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Alderperson Gilbert said the memo indicates there are seven (7) standards that are used to approve or deny a Special Use Permit (SUP). She asked if he could provide more details on these standards in the future as they weren't included in this memo. Community & Economic Development Director Mr. Brainard responded he would include the descriptions of all the standards in the future and said the recommendation staff are making for this item is more complex. He provided a map of the area, which detailed a residential zone and noted this property site is the former Aquiletics. The property has a long and complex zoning history dating back many years and the majority of the requests for a SUP have been to expand residential use within this facility. He described the different types of zoning districts in the City and said staff's recommendations around Special Use Permits are about the compatibility of different types of uses, so there isn't a huge difference in intensity between two different zoning uses. For example, you wouldn't want to place a large factory next to a residential house. Mr. Brainard further explained the staff's recommendations for the denial of this permit. He discussed whether or not the SUP constitutes a more permanent change to a facility or building and noted the SUP does not transfer with the property it goes with the person and is temporary in nature, whereas changing the zoning use is permanent.
Mr. Brainard discussed the remodeling that would need to be done on the lower floor to have this proposed use, which would fundamentally change its physical nature and make it more predisposed to continuing business or commercial uses. This specific SUP request would not conform with the surrounding character of the neighborhood. He said at the Planning Commission hearing they heard from three different interested parties, some of whom spoke in opposition to the SUP for the same reasons staff recommended denying the SUP such as concerns about increased truck traffic. The Planning Commission ultimately ended up voting in favor of the Special Use Permit. Alderperson Poulos clarified that this SUP would allow Happy Joe's to have two employees make dough at this location but not cook it on this property. Mr. Brainard responded affirmatively.
Alderperson Gilbert clarified that if the property were to be sold, the SUP would not be transferred. Mr. Brainard responded affirmatively. Alderperson Healy asked if the dough made at the facility in Rock Island that is sold to the other locations would generate sales tax revenue for the City. Mr. VanDerGinst responded affirmatively.
Alderperson Swanson asked if the apartments are currently occupied and if they would stay there if the Special Use Permit is approved. Mr. Brainard responded affirmatively.
Mr. Brainard said staff did prepare a draft ordinance in consideration of Council's decision of whether or not to approve the SUP. He noted a scrivener's error in the ordinance and said if the Council did move this item forward, they would correct the error. The ordinance includes standard language for a SUP and has been shared with Mr. VanDerGinst.
Alderperson Swanson remarked the memo states that only one delivery truck per week may be made for the purposes of production and then only one delivery to transport the dough per day, which has minimal impact on traffic. In response to a question from Alderperson Hurt regarding residents' concerns at the Planning Commission hearing, Mr. VanDerGinst said most of the concerns were about the traffic and he was able to talk to each of them and ease their concerns.
Attorney Dave Morrison and City Clerk Gange said the current motion would need to be withdrawn and a new motion made to consider the ordinance with a first reading. Alderpersons Healy and Swanson withdrew their motions.
Alderperson Swanson made a motion to approve the modified amendment to the Special Use Permit as recommended and consider the ordinance; seconded by Alderperson Gilbert.
VOTE:
Motion Passed on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
g. Report from the Community & Economic Development Department regarding a Special Use Permit request for Barry Reuther at 2963 9th Street. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider the ordinance.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Gilbert moved to consider the ordinance; Alderperson Parker seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Alderperson Gilbert asked if the department or the Planning Commission received any feedback from residents. Mr. Brainard responded that the Planning Commission did not receive any public input on this item. Mr. Brainard provided a map of the property and provided details regarding the zoning uses.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
13. Department Reports
a. Report from the Parks & Recreation Department regarding the Rock Island Fitness & Activity Center (RIFAC) Remodel project, recommending the use of $707,000.00 in restricted ARPA funds.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the use of $707,000.00 in ARPA funds for the RIFAC Remodel project.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
Todd Winter, Assistant Director of the Parks & Recreation Department, provided a presentation on the RIFAC project. He said Streamline Architects have been working with the department on developing the scope of the project. A Request for Proposals was issued for the project as a whole, but bids were rejected due to the bids coming in over budget. Staff regrouped and decided to break the project into smaller specialized segments to get more competitive bids. The RFP's were released for locker replacement, steam and sauna replacement, pool windows and doors, pool amenity to replace the diving board, locker room flooring, preschool entrance wall and exterior building maintenance at RIFAC. He noted the bids came in more competitive and under budget.
Mr. Winter discussed the various aspects of the project, including the expansion of security for the preschool area. He noted the exterior maintenance work that needed to be completed as well as the removal of the diving board to be replaced with a vortex slide. He provided additional background information, noting the educational and recreational opportunities RIFAC provides for residents and is the face of the Parks and Recreation department. He said the pandemic really shed light on the importance of parks and recreational activities and ARPA funds provide a once in a lifetime opportunity to address some much needed repairs and upgrades.
Alderperson Robinson asked how staff would control access to the rental spaces and basketball games if the doors are locked during preschool hours. Mr. Winter responded that they haven't worked out the exact details of how this would be accessed, but have a few ideas in mind and would provide an update once they had the details worked out.
MOTION:
Alderperson Hurt moved to approve the use of $707,000.00 in ARPA funds for the RIFAC Remodel project; Alderperson Swanson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
14. Budget/Finance Items
a. Report from the Finance Department regarding an adjustment to the CY 2023 budget, increasing the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Fund revenue and expenditures budget by $885,419.08.
b. Report from the Finance Department regarding an adjustment to the CY 2023 budget, increasing the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Fund revenue and expenditures by $449,861.36.
c. Report from the Finance Department regarding an adjustment to the CY 2023 budget, increasing the General Fund (101) expenses by $20,982.50.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve budget adjustments a through c. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to approve budget adjustments a through c; Alderperson Robinson seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Alderperson Gilbert referenced item b regarding a budget adjustment for unspent CDBG funds. She remarked that she doesn't understand how staff have kept track of the unspent funds through the years and said it seemed as though the Council had been approving similar budget adjustments for previous years. She asked if the department had a goal to end this type of practice of carrying over CDBG funds from year to year. Mr. Brainard referenced the chart in the memo regarding remaining funding amounts from previous years and said this is allowed under HUD rules. However, it is the staff's intent with this item to eliminate these situations in the future where money is carried over a number of years. Moving forward, there will be cases when money needs to be rolled over from a previous year if the project is still under construction or in progress.
Alderperson Gilbert asked what the plan was to spend the unused CDBG funds. Mr. Brainard said they will be using these funds to address the current housing rehabilitation program waitlist of approximately 100 people. He noted the goal of the department is to speed up the waitlist as well as get the word out about the program.
In response to a question from Alderperson Gilbert regarding how they prioritize projects in the housing rehabilitation program, Mr. Brainard said the City offers a low to moderate income housing rehabilitation program for residents who own their own homes with the goal of assisting with essential work that improves the quality of their housing and extends the useful life of the house. Typically, projects are prioritized based on the extent of the repairs. For example, a leaking roof would be a priority.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
d. Report from the Finance Department regarding an adjustment to the CY 2023 budget, increasing the Parks & Recreation Fund (555) revenue and expenses by $84,464.12 for the Highland Springs Clubhouse Project (6488).
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the line of credit drawdown, and the budget adjustment in the amount of $84,464.12.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Hurt moved to approve the line of credit drawdown, and the budget adjustment in the amount of $84,464.12; Alderperson Robinson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
e. Report from the Finance Department regarding the Municipal Compliance Reports for the Fiscal Year ending December 31, 2022 from the Fire Pension Fund and the Police Pension Fund.
Motion: Motion whether or not to accept the reports as recommended.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to accept the report as recommended; Alderperson Robinson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
15. Traffic Engineering Requests
a. Report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from Eugene Malcom, 3752 12th Street, to install a handicapped parking space in front of his home. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider the ordinance.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Hurt moved to consider the ordinance; Alderperson Robinson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
b. Report from the Traffic Engineering Committee to ban parking on the west side of 22nd Street 25 feet north and 25 feet south of the center line of the alley between 6th and 7th Avenue. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider the ordinance.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to consider the ordinance; Alderperson Poulos seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
c. Report from the Traffic Engineering Committee to ban parking on the south side of 22nd Avenue 25 feet east and 25 feet west of the center line of the alley between 39th and 40th Street. (First Reading)
Motion: Motion whether or not to consider the ordinance.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Healy moved to consider the ordinance; Alderperson Poulos seconded.
DISCUSSION:
Alderperson Healy asked Mr. Bartels what other modifications were reviewed before arriving at the decision to ban parking. Mr. Bartels said they did make the modification of only enacting the ban on trash pickup days. He indicated this was not a decision that was ideal, but much needed as the trucks have difficulty navigating the tiny space and getting in and out to pick up the trash. He said there is safety and liability concerns and this resolution will address those concerns.
Alderperson Gilbert clarified the parking ban would only occur one day a week. Mr. Bartels responded affirmatively.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
16. Appointments to Boards/Commissions/Committees
a. Report from the Mayor's Office regarding appointments and reappointments to the Human Rights Commission.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the appointments and reappointments as recommended.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to approve the appointments and reappointment as recommended; Alderperson
Robinson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
17. Events/Misc Requests
a. Report from the City Clerk's office regarding a request and a Resolution from the Quad Cities Marathon Committee for the temporary closure of the easternmost northbound land of US 67 (Master Stanley Talbot Memorial Bridge) and the temporary closure of the eastbound and westbound lanes of IL 92 and 15th Street to the intersection of 2nd Avenue on Sunday, September 24, 2023 from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the event as recommended and adopt the Resolution.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Swanson moved to approve the event as recommended and adopt the Resolution; Alderperson Robinson seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
b. Report from the City Clerk's office regarding a request from Project Now to close 19th Street between 4th and 5th Avenues on Monday, September 11, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a mobile food pantry distribution.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the request as recommended. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Parker moved to approve the request as recommended; Alderperson Poulos seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
c. Report from the City Clerk's office regarding an Activity Permit application for World Relief Quad Cities to hold a 5K run Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the event as recommended.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Swanson moved to approve the event as recommended; Alderperson Robinson seconded.
Alderperson Gilbert asked for a point of order regarding whether the memo needed to be corrected. Police Chief Landi addressed the Council and said it was his understanding that they worked out the route details with World Relief and the amended changes were to change the route so that traffic would not be impacted. He noted these amendments are reflected in the memo and no corrections were needed.
Clerk Gange noted a scrivener's error in the memo.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
d. Report from the City Clerk's office regarding street closing and sound amplification requests from Evelyn Day to hold a block party on 43rd Street, 20th to 22nd Avenues on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the requests as recommended. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Gilbert moved to approve the requests as recommended; Alderperson Healy seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
e. Report from the City Clerk's office regarding an application for the 39th annual Rock Island Labor
Day Parade to be held on Monday, September 4, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. to noon.
Motion: Motion whether or not to approve the event as recommended.
RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Swanson moved to approve the event as recommended; Alderperson Poulos seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay: None. Absent: None.
18. Other Business/New Business
Alderperson Healy announced that questions regarding the downtown project would resume.
Alderperson Robinson asked who would be responsible for the lights for the new tower. Mr. Bartels said the details were still being worked out.
Alderperson Gilbert asked if the City would be responsible for all lightbulb changes in the downtown, including the strings of lights. Mr. Bartels responded affirmatively.
Alderperson Gilbert asked for clarification that the parklets would be located on the sidewalks and not streets, are flexible and allow pedestrians to still utilize the sidewalks. Andrew Dasso, architect and owner of Streamline Architects responded that the parklets are flexible and there are several different configurations for easy accommodation.
Alderperson Gilbert confirmed that Mr. Bartels would be providing additional information regarding the roundabouts. Mr. Bartels responded affirmatively. Alderperson Gilbert said she would like information to share with constituents as she has received several emails of concern about the roundabout. Mr. Cullen added there will be additional traffic signs for pedestrians and vehicles.
Alderperson Hurt asked what material the Rock Island block lettering would be constructed from. Mr. Dasso said there are a few different methods that can be used, such as aluminum, steel or acrylic, and they will decide which material based on the cost.
City Council members discussed the roundabout and whether the majority of the Council wanted to move forward with the plan to include it. Alderperson GIlbert indicated she was not in favor of the roundabout based on feedback she had received from residents. The majority of Council members expressed they were in favor of moving forward with the roundabout in the plan.
City Council members discussed the colors of the lighting for the Rock Island block lettering. Alderperson Healy said he was in favor of the lettering being in red, which represents the Rock Island - Milan school colors for the Rock lettering. Alderperson Robinson added the string lights would be well utilized here as well. Alderperson Gilbert said she was in favor of the option of the City's colors red and blue. Alderperson Hurt indicated he was also in favor of the City colors.
Alderperson Swanson remarked she was in favor of cost sharing with WHBF for the colored lighting. Alderperson Gilbert remarked on the great work the downtown project team has done.
Alderperson Robinson said during the last meeting, City Council passed an ordinance that banned parking on the north side of 8th Avenue between 11th and 12th Streets. He said he recently learned that the south side of that street already has no parking signs and now there is no parking for residents on that street. Mr. Bartels said the department would work with the Traffic & Engineering Committee and report back to the Council.
Alderperson Gilbert asked if the state had provided the clawback amount and the details for the PPRT. Finance Director Linda Barnes and Mr. Thompson indicated they have not received any new information at this time. Alderperson Gilbert asked if a report could be provided to the Council regarding the estimate for the surplus, the estimated clawback amount to the state, and a proposal for how the surplus money will be spent or saved. Mr. Thompson indicated he would provide several recommendations and options for the Council to consider as part of the budget process. It was noted that an update would be provided prior to November.
Alderperson Gilbert asked when the next presentation would be on the water reservoir domes. Mr. Bartels said he has a meeting regarding this project next week and would update the Council as soon as he had additional information.
Alderperson Healy expressed condolences to Mayor Thoms and his family on the passing of his father, Stu Thoms.
19. Closed Session
a. 5 ILCS 120/2 (c)(1) The appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body (or legal counsel for the public body).
Motion: Motion whether or not to enter Closed Session for the exception cited. RC Roll Call vote is needed.
MOTION:
Alderperson Poulos moved to enter Closed Session for the exception cited; Alderperson Parker seconded.
VOTE:
Motion PASSED on a 7-0-0 roll call vote. Aye: Gilbert, Healy, Poulos, Hurt, Robinson, Parker, Swanson. Nay:
None. Absent: None.
20. Adjourn
a. Adjourn to August 28, 2023
Motion: Motion whether or not to adjourn.
VV: Voice Vote is needed.
Following the Closed Session, the City Clerk called the roll in regular session and the meeting adjourned at 8:58 p.m.by a 7-0-0 voice vote.
https://www.rigov.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08142023-1220
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