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Tuesday, May 20, 2025

City of Moline Committee of the Whole & Council met April 8

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Bob Vitas, City Administrator | City of Moline

Bob Vitas, City Administrator | City of Moline

City of Moline Committee of the Whole & Council met April 8.

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

Committee-of-the-Whole Call to Order

PRESENT: Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati (Chair)

Alderperson Debbie Murphy (Ward 1)

Alderperson Alvaro Macias (Ward 2)

Alderperson Abdur Razzaque (Ward 3)

Alderperson Matt Timion (Ward 4)

Alderperson Jessica Finch (Ward 5)

Alderperson Daniel McNeil (Ward 6)

Alderperson Anna Castro (Ward 7)

Alderperson James Patrick Schmidt (Alderperson At-Large)

ABSENT: None.

STAFF: Bob Vitas, City Administrator

Barry Dykhuizen, Assistant City Administrator

Stephanie Murphy, City Clerk

David Dryer, Director of Engineering ~electronically

Eric Griffith, Director of Parks & Recreation ~electronically

Bryon Lear, Director of Library Services

Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works

Leah Madsen, Director of Human Resources

Todd Noe, Deputy Chief of Police

Steve Regenwether, Fire Chief

David Rowatt, Information Technology Manager

Ashely Allen Smith, Community Engagement Manager

Dawn Temple, Management Analyst & Grant Coordinator

OTHERS: Margaret Kostopulos, Corporation Counsel

Anthony Watt, Quad-City Times

Mayor Rayapati called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers.

Roll Call

Roll call was taken with Mayor Rayapati, Alderpersons Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, and Schmidt present. Absent: None.

Public Comment

Marcie Fosdick, Quad Cities Classic Pickleball Tournament Director, reported that there will be a Quad Cities Pickleball Tournament from September 11-14, 2025. Two days of the tournament will be held at Riverside Park and two days will be at the Quad City Tennis Club. The Quad Cities Pickleball Club gives donations to different charities within the Quad Cities.

Board Appointments

Mayor’s reappointment of Julian “Scott” Raes to the Firefighters’ Pension Board for a 2-year term to expire April 30, 2027.

Mayor’s reappointment of Mark Beckwith to the Firefighters’ Pension Board for a 2-year term to expire April 30, 2027.

Proclamation

A Proclamation to declare the week of April 6-12, 2025 as “National Library Week.” Bryon Lear, Director of Library Services, thanked Mayor Rayapati for this proclamation. Every year in April, a week is set aside to recognize the contributions that libraries make in their communities. Mayor Rayapati read the proclamation aloud and then presented it to Bryon Lear.

Questions on the Agenda

There were no questions on the agenda.

Agenda Items

8.1 A Resolution authorizing a grant to the 12th Annual Fall Belgian Festival for the amount of $1,500 from the Special Events Fund to help offset expenses for the annual event to be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that staff is recommending approval of $1,500 from the Special Events Fund to help support the 12th Annual Fall Belgian Festival. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

8.2 An Ordinance dedicating Parcel/PIN No. 08-32-419-001, commonly known as 700 15th Street, Moline, Illinois, as public right-of-way. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, stated this item is following up to a previous discussion regarding the 7th Avenue project that will commence the summer of 2025. Staff is recommending approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Schmidt. Motion passed unanimously.

8.3 A Resolution authorizing a grant to the Quad Cities Pickleball Club for the amount of $7,500 from the Special Events Fund to make the Quad Cities Classic Pickleball Tournament not only successful for the club, but also for the City in bringing visitors to our community. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported staff is recommending approval of the $7,500 request and wished them a successful tournament in 2025. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Discussion held. Motion passed unanimously.

8.4 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a First Amendment Extending Intergovernmental Fiber Optic System Lease Agreement with Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit Authority (MetroLINK). Bob Vitas, City Administrator, stated this is an amendment to an existing agreement the City has had with MetroLINK for many years. Staff is recommending approval. Alderperson Schmidt proclaimed that his employer engages with MetroLINK.

There is no conflict of interest. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

8.5 A Resolution appointing each Alderperson to serve as Mayor Pro Tem on a rotating monthly basis during the Mayor’s term of office. Stephanie Murphy, City Clerk, reported that this resolution for Mayor Pro Tem is in place to have an alderperson fill in for the Mayor each month if there is an event or meeting which she is unable to attend. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

8.6 An Ordinance amending Chapter 16, “LIBRARIES,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 16-3107, “FEES,” by enacting one new Section 16-3107 dealing with the same subject matter. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that in conversations with Bryon Lear, Director of Library Services and Alderperson Macias, it was concluded that the sales of the Compass ID card have not been as high as they would like to see. The charge of $10 per individual or $25 per family may be a hinderance. There is about $3,750 budgeted for this in terms of revenue. It is being recommended to remove the charge and encourage people to apply for a card for free. Staff is recommending approval of the ordinance amendment. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Alderperson Macias stated that the purpose of the Compass ID is to remove barriers for individuals and make it easier for them to get an identification card. Alderperson Macias shared he is glad this is being done and is hopeful people will be able to get an ID. Macias further stated that this will also help businesses who are listed on the card provide discounts due to the potential increase of the number of individuals possessing the Compass ID. Alderperson Timion shared that he was recently asked by Humility Homes how the individuals supported through their program who recently experienced homelessness can get an ID. Timion is supportive of giving the IDs to anyone who is interested. Alderperson Castro inquired as to whether or not there is any sort of outreach to the local not for profits to help those who may need an ID. Mayor Rayapati replied stating that Ashely Allen Smith, Community Engagement Manager, along with staff and the alderpersons who sponsored this program, will reach out to those organizations spreading awareness of the Compass ID program.

8.7 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to three (3) Lease Agreements with Mitchel Trouten to farm City-owned property located at Pryce Farms (Parcel/PIN No. 17-28-300-002 and No. 17-33-100-002), Runge Farm (Parcel/PIN No. 17-30-300-007, No. 17-30- 300-053 and No. 17-30-400-001) and Bealer Farm (Parcel/PIN No. 17-29-300-004), from April 9, 2025 through April 8, 2026. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that staff is recommending approval of the leasing of the three farms, based on the documents attached to the resolution. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

8.8 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to an Intergovernmental Agreement Providing for Membership in the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network Agreement to participate in the program for mutual aid and assistance hereinafter entitled the “Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN).” Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works, reported that the Public Works is part of the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network. Their board of directors made very small revisions to the intergovernmental agreement, which requires Council approval. The changes include clarification that mutual aid is also for day-to-day operations, not just for emergencies, updated by-laws which states that all assets of the IPWMAN will be held in the intergovernmental agency’s name going forward, and a revised process for any future amendment. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion passed unanimously.

8.9 A Resolution declaring non-motorized assets as shown on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference as surplus property for FY 2025; and authorizing the disposal of said non-motorized assets by the Assistant Director of Public Works through the legal disposal process that is most advantageous to the City, whether sealed bid, auction, negotiation or otherwise.

Denver Schmitt, Director of Public works, reported that this item is for two non-motorized assets. They are a salt conveyor and a sandbagger. They no longer have useful life for the City. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion passed unanimously.

8.10 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Licensing Agreement with Stoney Creek Caterers, L.L.C., dba Stoney Creek Inn for use of public right-of way for use of the Bass Street Landing Public Plaza for the outdoor service of alcoholic liquor and food from April 23, 2025, to September 30, 2025. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, stated that staff recommends approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion passed unanimously.

8.11 A Resolution authorizing the ceding of private activity bonding authority to reallocate to the Quad Cities Regional Economic Development Authority (QCREDA) the City’s 2025 home rule volume cap allocation in the amount of $5,455,450 to be used to support projects that will provide job opportunities and new investments. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that staff is recommending approval of the resolution as requested by Warren Ribley, CEO for Quad Cities Regional Economic Development Authority. This is an annual request. Vitas explained that in the event the City does not use its authority for the purposes as listed, the money would go back to the State pool. This gives authority directly to QCREDA. That allocation remains in the City as opposed to being reallocated to Springfield. A motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Finch. Discussion held. Motion passed unanimously.

8.12 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Public Works to purchase office furniture for the City Services Center from Allmakes Office Furniture, Inc., for the amount of $177,919.17 utilizing Omnia Partners contract #R191804. Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works, reported that purchasing this furniture is the next step to moving the Parks and Recreation staff and Community Development staff to the Community Services Center. There will be a joint contract through Omnia partners. This item will also appear on the City Council agenda as there is an anticipated tariff increase so there is urgency in getting the furniture ordered. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Discussion held. Motion passed unanimously.

Informational

9.1 Grant Report Update. Dawn Temple, Management Analyst & Grant Coordinator, reported on grants from calendar year 2024. Temple shared that grants are in constant flux. In some cases, grants are applied for, approved, and completed all in one year. However, in most cases, the grant process can take anywhere from two to five years. Temple reviewed a grant that each department submitted. The information highlighted a project which received grant dollars in 2024.

9.2 April 2025 Status & Information Report. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, shared highlights from the April 2025 Status & Information report. Vitas highlighted that the City is at the 90% completion for the Moline Riverfront Master Plan, and the plan is to get the final draft plan in front of Council no later than May, 2025. Vitas reported that there was a Passenger Rail press conference. The project is moving forward and discussions are ongoing. There is a big push to have Rail become a State of Illinois priority. On April 22, 2025 there will be a memorial tree planting in front of the Moline Public Library memorializing former Mayor Stan Leach. The National Community and National Business Survey has been sent out to 4,000 randomly selected households throughout the City. On April 25 there will be an opportunity for those who were not selected to participate and complete a survey. The City of Moline is officially a Bee City. The City has acquired property at 700 15th Street and 620 17th Street. This is for the new fire station. Last, Vitas reported that the City now has the ability to reach out across the City to individuals through the Doppler system. As far as City operations go, this system will allow the City to reach out to the work force and provide them with emergency alerts.

Adjournment of the Committee-of-the-Whole and Council Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance

Invocation

There was no invocation.

Roll Call

Roll call was taken with Mayor Rayapati, Alderpersons Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, and Schmidt present. Absent: None.

Consent Agenda

Approval of Minutes and Appointments

Committee-of-the-Whole, Council and Executive Session meeting minutes of March 18, 2025, and appointments made at Committee-of-the-Whole on April 8, 2025.

Public Comment

There was no public comment.

Consent Agenda

Second Reading Ordinances

16.1 3016-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 20, “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 20-5109, “PARKING TIME LIMITS/RESTRICTIONS ESTABLISHED,” Appendix 16, “ONE-HOUR PARKING RESTRICTIONS IN NONMETERED ZONES,” by including: 1721 5th Avenue, Two On-Street Stalls.

16.2 3017-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 5, “AMUSEMENTS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 5-1101(c), by increasing the number of Video Gaming Terminal licensed establishments in the City at the request of owners Arlind Celiku and Braim Islami of Denis LLC d/b/a ETA Table and Tap, 2601 52nd Avenue, Moline.

Resolutions

17.1 1045-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to an Agreement with Tri-City Electric Company of Iowa for Moline Water Treatment Plant (WTP) Electric Service Improvements, Contract 2024-02, that includes replacement and translocation of transformers at the drinking water treatment plant for the amount of $298,856; and authorizing the Interim Director of Utilities to execute any necessary documents related to this work.

17.2 1046-2025 A Resolution approving Change Order No. 1 and Final with McCarthy Improvement Company, for Project #1451, 48th Street Reconstruction, for the amount of $33,730.90.

17.3 1047-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a contract with Porter Brothers Construction, Inc., for Project #1478, 2025 Asphalt Maintenance Program, for the amount of $301,380.00; and approving the expenditure of funds not to exceed the budgeted amount of $350,000.00 for asphalt maintenance projects and said expenditures will be presented to Council as a change order for approval increasing the contract value.

17.4 1048-2025 A Resolution approving the special event application for the Quad Cities Distance Classic event scheduled for Sunday, May 11, 2025, that is sponsored by the Cornbelt Running Club; authorizing a grant to the Cornbelt Running Club for the amount of $500 from the Special Events Fund for event marketing efforts; closing certain streets more particularly described herein to vehicular traffic; and authorizing the use of public right-of-way in conjunction with said event.

Omnibus Vote

Alderperson Timion, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, moved to approve and adopt, by omnibus vote, these items. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderperson Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil. nays: none.

Non-Consent Agenda

First Reading Ordinances

19.1 An Ordinance amending Chapter 2, “ADMINISTRATION,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 2-4600, “COMMISSION ESTABLISHED,” by enacting one new Section 2- 4600 dealing with the same subject matter.

Advanced. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Timion, moved to advance Item #19.1 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

19.2 An Ordinance amending Chapter 2, “ADMINISTRATION,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 2-2207, “ORDER OF BUSINESS,” by enacting one new Section 2-2207 dealing with the same subject matter.

Advanced. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Castro, moved to advance Item #19.2 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

Non-Consent Agenda

Resolutions

20.1 1049-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a contract with Miller Trucking and Excavating for Project #1462, 2025 Culvert Replacement Project, for the amount of $195,515.10.

Approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

20.2 1050-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to three (3) Lease Agreements with Mitchel Trouten to farm City-owned property located at Pryce Farms (Parcel/PIN No. 17-28-300-002 and No. 17-33-100-002), Runge Farm (Parcel/PIN No. 17-30-300- 007, No. 17-30-300-053 and No. 17-30-400-001) and Bealer Farm (Parcel/PIN No. 17-29-300-004), from April 9, 2025 through April 8, 2026.

Approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

20.3 1028-2025-R A Resolution declaring vehicles and non-motorized assets as shown on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference as surplus property and authorizing the disposal of said vehicles and non-motorized assets by the Assistant Director of Public Works through the legal disposal process that is most advantageous to the City, whether sealed bid, auction, negotiation or otherwise.

Approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Discussion held. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

20.4 1051-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Public Works to purchase office furniture for the City Services Center from Allmakes Office Furniture, Inc., for the amount of $177,919.17 utilizing Omnia Partners contract #R191804.

Approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

20.5 1052-2025 A Resolution approving a Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code for Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Section Number 23-00292-00-RP, 34th Street Reconstruction from 4th Avenue to University Drive, for the amount of $800,000.00.

Approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

20.6 1053-2025 A Resolution appointing and designating Ashley R. Kilker, Human Resources Benefits Administrator, as an authorized agent of the City of Moline to act on behalf of the City of Moline in all or any matters pertaining to the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).

Approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that there is a customer service problem with the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF). One of the problems City staff is having is being able to turn around retirees following the rules and protocols that are in place and finding out that they have to wait beyond their retirement date to receive benefits. City staff wants to reach out to IMRF and find others who are like

situated so there can be a discussion with the board who is there to serve municipal employees. Leah Madsen, Director of Human Resources, shared that some of the challenges that staff is currently facing is the functionality of the new website that was rolled out. Madsen noted that because IMRF represents over 3,000 employers in the State of Illinois, there are often hold times of three hours when calling by phone.

A standard response time is up to 10 business days. Because of this, some employees are waiting over two months to receive their first pension check after retiring. In discussions between Vitas and Madsen, it was determined that there is some legislation to address some of the issues. However, Madsen believes that in addition to the legislation, potentially working with colleagues in other municipalities to be a collective voice would bring this forward for change. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

20.7 1054-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Engineering to purchase light fixtures from Springfield Electric Supply Company for the 2025 Capital Improvement Project #1418, 7th Avenue Reconstruction, 15th Street to west of 19th Street, for the amount of $199,040.85.

Approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

20.8 1055-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a contract with Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities, Inc., for Project #1418, 7th Avenue Reconstruction, 15th Street to west of 19th Street, for the amount of $2,998,156.21.

Approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Timion. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

Miscellaneous Business

Mayor Rayapati shared that work continues on the Passenger Railway. Matt Hughes, State lobbyist, is heavily involved and monitoring the conversations being held in Springfield. Mayor stated he brought to her attention that on the Illinois DOT LinkedIn page, there was a post requesting others to share their thoughts on federally required State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). The list of items that have been approved can be reviewed and questions and comments can be made. Mayor will share the link with Council if they are interested in advocating for this for the City to have money for its train solution. Mayor Rayapati thanked those who attended the Rooting Out Poverty 25 Conference on April 3, 2025. Mayor Rayapati also thanked Alderperson Schmidt for being Mayor Pro Tem to discuss the Level Up program. Last, Mayor Rayapati reported that there was recently a grand opening for Fibre and Stem, a new craft store in Moline. Mayor encouraged staff to let Council know when a new store is opening.

Alderperson Murphy acknowledged the First Ward is having its first meeting of the year on April 17, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Butterworth Education Center.

Alderperson Macias stated he was asked from a group what the process is to get information on the new neighborhood signs. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, stated that there are Housing and Urban Development (HUD) rules as they were funded by HUD. In addition, Ashley Allen Smith, Community Engagement Manager, is working with KJ Whitley, Community Development Manager, to create City rules and regulations. Private advertising will not be promoted.

Alderperson Razzaque congratulated Mayor Rayapati and Alderpersons Macias, Timion, McNeil, and Schmidt on their re-election. Alderperson Razzaque exclaimed he hopes the Council will continue to serve the citizens of Moline with enthusiasm.

Alderperson Timion indicated on May 2, 2025 Humility Homes has their immersion experience. You can spend time with people who experienced homelessness firsthand. As leaders who like to lead with empathy this is an important experience to try to attend.

Alderperson McNeil shared proud to be part of the City that encourages and plans for public participation and input. McNeil also shared that it was great to see all of the staff at the recent Poverty Conference.

Public Comment

There was no additional public comment.

Executive Session:

Alderperson Murphy, seconded by Alderperson Timion, moved for Executive Session, for the purpose of discussion of Appointment, Employment, Compensation, Discipline, Performance, or Dismissal of Specific Employees - 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) and Property Acquisition - 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(5).

Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

City Council convened in Executive Session at 7:13 p.m.

Council reconvened in open session at 8:31 p.m.

Adjournment of City Council

Upon motion of Alderperson Castro, seconded by Alderperson Schmidt, the Council meeting adjourned at 8:31 p.m.

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