Rock Island Today

City of Kewanee City Council met Nov. 13.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The November 13th, 2023, Council Meeting was called to order at 7:00pm in the Council Chambers. Councilmembers Colomer, Baker, and Komnick were present along with Mayor Moore, City Attorney Justin Raver, and City Clerk Kasey Mitchell. Councilmember Faber was absent.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence for our troops.

The consent agenda was presented and included the following items.

A. Minutes from the Council Meeting on October 23rd

B. Payroll for the pay period ending November 4th in the amount of $223,311.21.

C. Staff Reports

A motion to approve the consent agenda items was made by Councilmember Colomer and seconded by Councilmember Komnick. Motion passed 4-0.

Bills for the Council Meeting of November 13th were presented in the amount of $570,573.35. A motion to approve payment of the bills was made by Councilmember Baker and seconded by Councilmember Komnick. Discussion: None. Motion passed 4-0.

Public Comments: None

Police Chief Nicholas Welgat spoke to the Council and those in attendance. He offered gratitude to many as he stepped down as Chief of Police of Kewanee.

The City Clerk swore in the new Chief of Police, Stephen Kijanowski. Former Police Chief Nicholas Welgat pinned him accordingly.

The City Clerk swore in the new Deputy Police Chief, Michael Minx. Police Chief Stephen Kijanowski pinned him accordingly.

New Business:

A. Consideration of Bill 23-64 Ordinance granting a Rezoning Request for land located at 814 E Second St, Kewanee, Illinois. A motion to approve was made by Councilmember Colomer and seconded by Councilmember Baker. Discussion: The Mayor talked with the neighbors. The only concern he heard was that the property owner’s son was causing issues. The property owner stated that should no longer be a problem. Motion passed 4-0.

B. Consideration of Bill 23-65 Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit to Tina Chamberlain for property located at 814 E Second St, Kewanee, Illinois. A motion to approve was made by Councilmember Komnick and seconded by Councilmember Baker. Discussion: The Mayor wanted to clarify to the property owners that the Ordinance states that all vehicles on the property must be operational. Motion passed 4-0.

C. Consideration of Bill 23-66 Resolution authorizing the City manager to execute an agreement with Hutchison Engineering for professional services related to the project and design of improvements to the Downtown area. A motion to approve was made by Councilmember Colomer and seconded by Councilmember Baker. Discussion: Representatives from Hutchison Engineering spoke to Council about the project timeline. They hope to start surveys in early 2024 and start the actual work in Spring of 2025.

D. Discussion Only: Insurance for City Employees City Clerk Kasey Mitchell asked if any Councilmember had any questions regarding the insurance workshop and details they received. There were none. She then stated that the City Manager hopes to discuss changes with the collective bargaining units and have something for Council to vote on at the next meeting.

Council Communications:

Colomer: He asked Public Works Director Kevin Newton if the street sweeper has been out recently. Mr. Newton stated that priorities have been focused elsewhere but he will be sure to get it out. Tonight was a pretty emotional meeting with Police Chief Welgat’s retirement. It is sad to see his career end as he has made so much progress in the department over the last few years. He wished him the best of luck of luck.

Baker: He stated that Chief Welgat had taught him how to referee football and he knew at that time that he was a very bright man. He is sad to see him go but will keep the family in his prayers.

Komnick: He commended Chief Welgat for making the decision to focus on his family and his health. It must have been a difficult decision, but he knows that with the new replacements, we are in good hands. He stated that he has received over a dozen compliments on Chief Kijanowski over the years. He then stated he was able to see the Kewanee Pep Band at the State Volleyball tournament as they were one of four bands chosen to play.

Mayor’s Communications:

The Mayor gave his condolences to the family of Mr. James Golby. There were few people who did not know Mr. Golby. He was genuine and kind and gave a lot to the community. He then congratulated the Annawan-Wethersfield Titans football team on a great season. It came to an end in the third round of the playoffs, but they gave a lot for the community to be proud of. Last week he was able to attend multiple Veteran’s Day programs. He was a guest speaker at a couple as well. It was a privilege to honor each of them. Finally, Windmont and Northeast Parks are currently being decorated. They could always use help. This also means that the Chamber of Commerce Lighted Parade is approaching, and they are always looking for more entries.

Announcements: City Hall and the Transfer Stations will be CLOSED Thursday November 23rd and Friday November 24th. There is no change to trash collection for Tuesday and Wednesday, and no change to Friday recycling. Thursday collection will be moved to Friday the 24th.

A motion to adjourn was made by Councilmember Colomer and seconded by Councilmember Komnick. Motion passed 4-0 and the meeting was adjourned at 7:48pm.

http://cms5.revize.com/revize/kewanee/Minutes%2011-13-2023.pdf