Rock Island Today

City of Moline Committee of the Whole & Council met June 17.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

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

Bill Atkins, City Attorney

Brandi Russell, Deputy City Clerk

Carol Barnes, Director of Finance

David Dryer, Director of Engineering ~electronically

Eric Griffith, Director of Parks & Recreation

Chris Mathias, Director of Community & Economic Development

Jennifer Bizarri, Assistant Director of Community & Economic Development

Bryon Lear, Director of Library Services ~electronically

Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works

Leah Madsen, Director of Human Resources

Darren Gault, Chief of Police

Steve Regenwether, Fire Chief

Charly Brown, Assistant Utilities Director

David Rowatt, Information Technology Manager

KJ Whitley, Community Development Manager

Chris Parr, Economic Development Manager

Jessica Anderson, Community Development Program Coordinator

Dawn Temple, Management Analyst and Grant Coordinator

Mary Chappell, Land Bank Program Manager

Yvonne Brolander, Cemetery Manager

OTHERS: Margaret Kostopulos, Corporation Counsel

Alexandra Elias, Renew Moline

Brett Wiedl, Principal, MKSK

Troy Stinson, Strand Engineering ~electronically

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.

Approval of Remote Electronic Attendance

None.

Public Comment

Sean Johnson Jr. spoke about the safety of bike paths on streets, emphasizing the need for better traffic signals and signage to protect cyclists and pedestrians.

Oath of Office

Oath of office for promotional appointment to the rank of Sergeant to Adam Lorenz, effective June 1, 2025.

Oath of office for promotional appointment to the rank of Sergeant to Joseph Ward, effective June 15, 2025.

Board Appointments

Mayor's appointment of Nathan Tillberg to the Moline Park and Recreation Board to fill the unexpired term of Daniel Williams to expire May 31, 2028.

Presentation

7.1 Moline River Front & Centre Plan Update. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, made opening remarks regarding the project. Brett Weidl, Principal, MKSK, provided an overview of the project’s history over the past two years and thanked City stakeholders for their involvement. She introduced the Moline River Front & Centre Plan as an evolving project, noting it would develop through a four-phase process, with supplemental studies. Weidl emphasized community engagement through meetings, a pop-up task force meeting, and surveys, revealing strong public interest in experiencing the riverfront space.

Weidl outlined the key vision, which includes a connection between the riverfront and Moline Centre, complementing the existing downtown area, while considering vehicle, bike, and pedestrian traffic patterns. The plan also aims to build resilient systems that account for the river’s unpredictability. The vision involves repurposing the Spiegel and Bridgepointe buildings and enhancing the Utilities Department Building.

The City Council posed questions to Weidl, which included a discussion on flood mitigation. Weidl explained that the area is a slough and wetlands, with water moving slowly even during flooding. The site is being raised through dredging by the Army Corps of Engineers. Discussion followed on the potential for either an underpass under the railroad or an overpass/walking bridge to connect residents to the river. Weidl also mentioned the iconic external stairs for the tower, noting that while structurally viable, a specific vision for it has not yet been developed.

7.2 Payments to Agencies. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, discussed the City’s history of providing funding to various agencies. He presented three requests for review:

Visit Quad Cities: Vitas discussed an agreement for the period 2025-2028 (see "Payment to Agencies Review 2025-2028" handout, Attachment No. 2). The Council had already approved a four-year agreement through 2029, with a 25% commitment.

Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce: Vitas reviewed the City’s agreement regarding the "Grow Quad Cities" initiative (see "Grow Quad Cities – Work Plan Strategies for FY 2026" handout, Attachment No. 3). The Council had previously approved this agreement, with all cities participating in the initiative.

Humility Homes: A funding request for $44,000 was presented for 2026 to support a position focused on fieldwork with Moline’s homeless population. It was noted that the City does not currently have a multi year agreement with Humility Homes.

Carol Barnes, Director of Finance, noted that all agencies presented last year. This year, written requests are being reviewed, with additional presentations expected in the coming months. The increasing costs of doing business were cited as a reason for the higher funding requests. Suggestions were made to invite Humility Homes for a presentation on the funded position and its outcomes.

Chris Mathias, Director of Community & Economic Development, reported that the Public Art Commission is actively pursuing State grants.

7.3 Path Forward Program – Opioid Settlement Funds. Darren Gault, Chief of Police, introduced options for using the $80,000 in one-time opioid settlement funds. The goal is to invest in people to address opioid use and trafficking in Illinois, with a focus on individuals in Rock Island County. Gault outlined a partnership with the Drug Court Program, noting it is a one-time initiative that would leave a lasting impact on those it serves.

Jessica Anderson, Community Development Program Coordinator, presented a slideshow on the "Path Forward" program, which provides financial assistance to individuals transitioning into sober, successful lives. The program offers up to $5,000 within 180 days, with follow-up, documentation, and eligibility criteria.

Gault and Anderson addressed questions from the Council regarding opioid use and its coexistence with other substance abuse disorders. They will provide regular updates to the Council via Status and Information Reports and return for future funding requests once the initial allocation is spent. The proposal will return for formal approval at the July 8, 2025 City Council meeting.

Questions on the Agenda

None.

Agenda Items

9.1 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute a Notice of Intent to Award IHC Construction Companies LLC, for the South Slope Water Reclamation Facility Project, for the amount of $113,862,000.00. Charly Brown, Assistant Utilities Director, outlined the project needs. Troy Stinson, Strand Engineering, was present remotely to answer questions. It would be partially funded by a $120M loan from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) at a 1.9% interest rate. The IEPA loan offer is for FY2026, with the 1.9% rate locked in. While this is not the official award, the Notice of Intent to Award allows the project to proceed. The bid award deadline is July 14, 2025. The City Council will vote on the award on July 8, 2025 and construction is expected to start in mid-to-late August.

A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

9.2 A Resolution granting a variance to Chapter 28, “STREETS AND SIDEWALKS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 28-3200(a) and Chapter 35, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 35-4218, to allow a temporary modification to delay the construction of sidewalk along 47th Street for the subject property located at 7330 47th Street, Moline. Chris Mathias, Director of Community & Economic Development, presented the request for a sidewalk variance for the LRS Transfer Station located at 7330 47th Street, Moline. The request is for a temporary modification to delay the installation of a 528-foot sidewalk along 47th Street. The applicant argued that the area is remote, not connected to an existing sidewalk network, and lacks pedestrian generators such as bus stops. Mathias noted that while the delay is tracked, it can be extended as long as the City Council deems appropriate, and the request can be revisited at any time. However, it is not recommended to grant the variance permanently, as doing so could constrain future City Council planning.

A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Schmidt. Motion passed unanimously.

9.3 A Resolution granting a variance to Chapter 28, “STREETS AND SIDEWALKS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 28-3200(a) and Chapter 35, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 35-4218, to allow a temporary modification to delay the construction of sidewalk along 41st Street, 41st Avenue Drive and 46th Avenue for the subject property located at 4101 41st Street, Moline. Chris Mathias, Director of Community & Economic Development, shared that McLaughlin Motors, located at 4101 41st Street, Moline, has requested a temporary modification to delay the installation of a 2,224-foot sidewalk along 41st Street, 41st Avenue Drive, and 46th Avenue. The request is due to the challenges of fitting sidewalks in these areas, lack of existing sidewalks to the north and west, and the proposed sidewalk on 46th Avenue being in a drainage area. The applicant argued that constructing the sidewalk would not connect to any nearby sidewalks and is not warranted. The applicant also noted that the Walmart commercial area and the IDOT-built loop road to the east lack sidewalks. Mathias noted that while the Code requires sidewalk installation, the location does not present a clear connection to other pedestrian infrastructure, and IDOT had not previously invested in the area either.

A motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Finch. Motion passed unanimously.

9.4 An Ordinance amending Chapter 22, “OFFENSES MISCELLANEOUS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 22-1105, “TOBACCO PRODUCTS, TOBACCO ACCESSORIES, SMOKING HERBS AND ALTERNATIVE NICOTINE PRODUCTS,” by increasing the number of Class B Incidental Tobacco Dealer’s Licenses in the City of Moline at the request of Rising Sun Mart LLC, d/b/a Rising Sun Mart. Brandi Russell, Deputy City Clerk, informed the Council that the business previously licensed under the name Mina Mart, which held a Class B Tobacco Dealer’s License, is being sold to new owners, Rising Sun Mart. As part of the transaction, the existing Class B Tobacco Dealer’s License under Mina Mart would be surrendered, and a new Class B Tobacco Dealer’s License would be issued to Rising Sun Mart.

A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

9.5 An Ordinance amending Chapter 23, “PARKS AND RECREATION,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, ARTICLE II, “OPERATION OF PARK AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES,” Section 23-2103, “TRAILS; RULES OF CONDUCT APPLICABLE TO TRAILS,” to allow non gas powered/human powered activities on City Trails. Eric Griffith, Director of Parks and Recreation, provided an update on the proposed amendment to the Moline Code of Ordinances regarding the different classes of e-bikes allowed on City trails. The amendment has been reviewed and supported by both City staff and the Bi-State Trail Committee. Additionally, the cities of Bettendorf and Davenport are revising their ordinances to permit non-gas-powered and human-powered modes of transportation, aligning with the proposed changes in Moline. Enforcement of the new regulations poses challenges for the Police Department, particularly when determining the specific class of bikes in use. The discussion also highlighted that golf carts are still not permitted on trails. The Moline Park and Recreation Board recommended approval of the update at its May 29, 2025 meeting. If approved by the City Council, City staff will install signage throughout the trail system to inform users of the updated Multi-Purpose Trail Usage Rules. City Council members discussed the enforcement of “slow zones” on specific trails, particularly on Ben Butterworth Parkway, to ensure safety and proper use of the trails.

A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

9.6 An Ordinance amending Chapter 8, “BUILDINGS AND OTHER CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING SERVICES,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, ARTICLE VIII, “MISCELLANEOUS,” Division 4, “CRIME FREE RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROGRAM,” by repealing said Division 4 in its entirety. Darren Gault, Chief of Police, provided a history of the Crime Free Residential Rental Program, which was delayed in 2020 due to COVID-19 and later modified. He raised concerns about the legality and impractical enforcement of some provisions in the program. Gault highlighted that on September 26, 2023, the City amended the Rental Housing Inspection Program Ordinance, which has proven successful in addressing rental housing issues. Gault recommended discontinuing the Crime Free Residential Rental Program entirely, as the Rental Housing Ordinance has achieved better results, including proactive inspections and improved housing conditions. He noted that 545 properties originally certified under the Crime Free Program have expired and need recertification, but proposed pausing recertification to allow the Rental Housing Program to continue to develop.

Gault also mentioned that while there were efforts at the State level to push back similar ordinances, they were unsuccessful and may be revisited. He suggested the Crime Free Program could be revisited in the future if adjustments to the rental program are needed.

A motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque.

Bill Atkins, City Attorney, provided additional information about legal concerns regarding the Crime Free Residential Rental Program. He explained that while the current program itself did not raise issues, the Illinois State law continues to be problematic, especially regarding evidence of arrest without conviction, which could potentially violate human rights laws. Atkins emphasized that the Department of Justice (DOJ) had raised concerns in the past about these legal matters. A discussion was held regarding how these issues could be addressed going forward.

Motion passed unanimously.

9.7 An Ordinance amending Chapter 27, “PURCHASING,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, APPENDIX 1, “CITY OF MOLINE PURCHASING POLICY AND PROCEDURE,” by repealing said APPENDIX 1 in its entirety. Bill Atkins, City Attorney, explained the need for a code cleanup regarding Appendix 1 of Chapter 27, "PURCHASING," in the Moline Code of Ordinances. Atkins clarified that when the new purchasing policy was implemented, the appendix should have been deleted. The contents of Appendix 1 are no longer in alignment with the Purchasing Ordinance approved by the City Council, and should be removed.

A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

9.8 A Resolution declaring the following six vacant properties previously acquired by the City of Moline to be surplus: 1117 26th Street, 723 22nd Street, 2114 8th Avenue, 728 25th Street, 2615 11th Avenue B, and 520 21st Street; and authorizing the Quad Cities Land Bank Authority (QCLBA) Board of Directors to determine the disposition of the six properties based on proposals from prospective buyers; and authorizing the QCLBA Program Attorney to manage and execute all closing documents on behalf of the City of Moline. Chris Mathias, Director of Community & Economic Development, stated that a primary objective of the Quad Cities Land Bank Authority (QCLBA) is to address vacant properties, returning the properties to the tax roll, while also providing some neighboring residents to acquire additional land to expand their current properties. Mathias emphasized that the City would recover the costs associated with processing these properties through the QCLBA.

A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Discussion held. The vacant properties will be listed on the QCLBA website, then, the City of Moline will convey the property directly to the individual or entity.

Motion passed unanimously.

9.9 An Ordinance amending Chapter 3, “ADVERTISING AND SIGNS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, ARTICLE II, “SIGNS,” Section 3-2110, “SIGN PERMITS,” pertaining to the notice requirements for expired sign permits. Chris Mathias, Director of Community & Economic Development, explained that this amendment was brought forward by City Administration in response to concerns about the current 180-day time frame for addressing signage violations. Under the existing Ordinance, the process requires notifying property owners of violations and then pursuing enforcement. However, to address immediate safety concerns more efficiently, the proposal is to shorten the time frame to 60 days, following attorney review. For less critical, more typical violations, the time frame would be set at 90 days for resolution.

A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion passed unanimously.

9.10 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute a First Amendment to Program Funding Agreement between the City of Moline and the Illinois Housing Development Authority to amend the Strong Communities Properties 2 Agreement termination date, and to do all things necessary to execute all assurances and certifications to the Illinois Housing Development Authority for the Strong Communities Program, Round 2 Program; and authorizing the Community and Economic Development Department to begin work upon execution of the First Amendment to Program Funding Agreement for an amended Agreement termination date between the City of Moline and the Illinois Housing Development Authority for the Strong communities Program, Round 2, and to do all things necessary to implement said program requirements. KJ Whitley, Community Development Manager, introduced the Strong Communities Properties (SCP) program, and said notification had been received from the Illinois Housing Development Authority that the performance period for Round 2 of the SCP has been extended by 12 months.

A motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

9.11 A Resolution authorizing the City to participate in the Illinois Housing Development Authority (“IHDA”) Home Repair and Accessibility Program, Round 2 (“HRAP2”); and authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement to accept funding and to execute all necessary assurances and certifications to the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) for anticipated Home Repair and Accessibility Program, Round 2 (HRAP2) funds for program years 2025–2027, contingent upon IHDA Board approval on June 20, 2025; and authorizing the Community and Economic Development Department to begin work upon the execution of an agreement between the City and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) to accept funding for program years 2025 - 2027 awarded Home Repair and Accessibility Program, Round 2 (“HRAP2”) funds; and ratifying all documents, agreements and instruments executed in connection with the Home Repair and Accessibility Program, Round 2, including those acts taken prior to the date hereof. KJ Whitley, Community Development Manager, stated this grant requires pre-approval by the City Council. The City received a Conditional Commitment Letter (CCL) for consideration of a Home Repair and Accessibility Program (HRAP) Round 2 grant award. Due to strict time constraints, the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) has requested all applicants review the CCL in advance.

A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion passed unanimously.

Informational

10.1 Historic Preservation Commission Demolition Ordinance Update. Chris Mathias, Director of Community and Economic Development, stated that the demolition delay process was last reviewed in 2024. He noted that he serves as the staff liaison to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), which is proposing implementing a 30-day pause before a building is demolished. The proposal includes a five day period for the HPC to review the request, a 30-day hearing period, and an additional 60 days for further evaluation. Accessory structures would be excluded from the review process, and properties 50 years or older would be subject to these delays.

Mathias emphasized that he and the staff would have the final authority on demolition decisions after review by the HPC. This policy option aims to provide a balanced approach without giving the HPC full discretion over demolition decisions. Bill Atkins, City Attorney, commented that the City has the authority to implement such a process, provided there are clear standards in place. He cautioned that unbridled discretion could lead to issues. Therefore, solid, measurable standards must be established for decision making, rather than subjective judgments.

Mathias agreed to bring back examples from other cities with similar processes for comparison. He added that City staff should have the final say in demolition decisions, though there was mixed feedback from the Council. Concerns were expressed that the proposed delay was too long, suggesting that 45 calendar days should be the maximum delay. Other members shared similar concerns about the delay period, noting the importance of balancing the input from the HPC with City staff decisions.

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.

Approval of Remote Electronic Attendance

None.

Public Comment

Chris Martel expressed concerns about Class 3 e-bikes on trails and bike paths, particularly on the riverfront path. He suggested reassessing the path, as he feels Class 3 e-bikes are too fast for the area.

Sean Johnson Jr. suggested that e-bikes, due to their speed being closer to that of motorists, should be required to ride on the streets instead of bike paths.

Consent Agenda

Approval of Minutes and Appointments

Committee-of-the-Whole and Council meeting minutes of June 3, 2025, and appointments made at Committee-of-the-Whole on June 17, 2025.

Second Reading Ordinances

18.1 3025-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 20, “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Appendix 10 thereof, “PARKING PROHIBITED AT ANY TIME,” by removing “Thirty-sixth Street, east side, from Avenue of the Cities north to 22nd Avenue,” and adding “Thirty-sixth Street, west side, beginning 150 feet north of Avenue of the Cities, continuing north to 19th Avenue.”

Resolutions

19.1 1093-2025 A Resolution declaring the property located at 3620 38th Avenue, Moline, Illinois (“Property”), as surplus; and authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Purchase and Sale Agreement and do all things necessary to convey the above-referenced City owned Property to Scout Capital Group, LLC; and authorizing the City Attorney and staff to do all things necessary to complete each of the City’s responsibilities and enforce each of the City’s expected benefits as referred to in such Agreement.

19.2 1094-2025 A Resolution approving a special event that is sponsored by the Glen Oaks Neighborhood Association for the Morgan Park 4th of July Parade scheduled for Friday, July 4, 2025; closing certain streets more particularly described herein to vehicular traffic; and authorizing the use of public right-of-way in conjunction with said event.

19.3 1095-2025 A Resolution approving the special event application for the Moline High School Homecoming Parade scheduled for Friday, September 19, 2025, that is sponsored by the Moline High School; closing certain streets more particularly described herein to vehicular traffic; and authorizing the use of public right-of-way in conjunction with said event.

19.4 1096-2025 A Resolution approving a special event that is sponsored by the Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House for the Porch Party event scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025; closing certain streets more particularly described herein to vehicular traffic; and authorizing the use of public right-of-way in conjunction with said event.

19.5 1097-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Chief of Police, on behalf of the City of Moline, to execute a Multijurisdictional Law Enforcement Agreement (MLEA) between local law enforcement agencies.

Omnibus Vote

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

Non-Consent Agenda

Resolutions

21.1 1098-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute a Notice of Intent to Award IHC Construction Companies, LLC, for the South Slope Water Reclamation Facility Project, for the amount of $113,862,000.00.

Approved. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Schmidt, moved to approve Council Bill 1098- 2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, and Finch; nays: none.

21.2 1099-2025 A Resolution authorizing the City to participate in the Illinois Housing Development Authority (“IHDA”) Home Repair and Accessibility Program, Round 2 (“HRAP2”); and authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement to accept funding and to execute all necessary assurances and certifications to the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) for anticipated Home Repair and Accessibility Program, Round 2 (HRAP2) funds for program years 2025–2027, contingent upon IHDA Board approval on June 20, 2025; and authorizing the Community and Economic Development Department to begin work upon the execution of an agreement between the City and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) to accept funding for program years 2025 - 2027 awarded Home Repair and Accessibility Program, Round 2 (“HRAP2”) funds; and ratifying all documents, agreements and instruments executed in connection with the Home Repair and Accessibility Program, Round 2, including those acts taken prior to the date hereof.

Approved. Alderperson Schmidt, seconded by Alderperson Castro, moved to approve Council Bill 1099- 2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, and Finch; nays: none.

21.3 1100-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a contract with Stichter Construction, Inc., for Project #1488, 2025 Sealcoat Ditch Restoration, for the amount of $119,259.45.

Approved. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, moved to approve Council Bill 1100- 2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, and Finch; nays: none.

21.4 1101-2025 A Resolution approving a Supplemental Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code for Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Section Number 17-00268-00-RS, Milling and Resurfacing with ADA Ramp Improvements on 12th Avenue and 16th Street, for the amount of $117,947.05.

Approved. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Castro, moved to approve Council Bill 1101- 2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, and Finch; nays: none.

Non-Consent Agenda

First Reading Ordinances

22.1 An Ordinance amending Chapter 22, “OFFENSES MISCELLANEOUS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 22-1105, “TOBACCO PRODUCTS, TOBACCO ACCESSORIES, SMOKING HERBS AND ALTERNATIVE NICOTINE PRODUCTS,” by increasing the number of Class B Incidental Tobacco Dealer’s Licenses in the City of Moline at the request of Rising Sun Mart LLC, d/b/a Rising Sun Mart.

Advanced. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, moved to advance Item #22.1 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, and Finch; nays: none.

Miscellaneous Business

Mayor Rayapati commended Fire Chief Steve Regenwether and City staff for their quick response to an incident near ETA Table and Tap. A resident had reported seeing an ambulance and staff assisting someone in need and expressed gratitude for the outreach. Mayor Rayapati also congratulated Alderperson Murphy for being the first to hold a Ward meeting on homelessness, which is to include City staff and Humility Homes. She encouraged other alderpersons to schedule similar meetings and coordinate with Bob Vitas, City Administrator, and Macy McManus, Executive Coordinator, for potential topics. The Mayor also shared that she held a productive conversation with Western Illinois University staff and board members. Although the university did not receive the state funding they were seeking, positive discussions continue regarding their future. The Mayor expressed concern over the financial pressure on higher education and issues surrounding student visas.

Alderperson Murphy invited the community to attend her Ward 1 meeting on homelessness, where Darren Gault, Chief of Police, will discuss the laws surrounding homelessness, and a representative from Humility Homes will explain their role in the City.

Alderperson McNeil shared information about Pollinator Week and thanked City staff for hosting the Boys and Girls Club.

Alderperson Castro relayed positive feedback from the Moline-Coal Valley School Board and Superintendent regarding the change to the homecoming parade route and thanked Chief Gault for his efforts.

Alderperson Schmidt noted the positive community response to the rotation of public art. While some were sad about their pieces being moved, they were excited about new opportunities for placemaking.

Bob Vitas reported on attending the International Marketplace Conference in Milwaukee, WI, last week with Alexandra Elias, Renew Moline and Chris Parr, Economic Development Manager. The conference featured global representation, including from Japan, Africa, the U.S., and Europe. Vitas also highlighted the start of the internship project, commending the Human Resources department for their efforts. He thanked MKSK for their exceptional work on the Riverfront project and expressed gratitude to Alexandra Elias for her contributions to the City.

Public Comment

Alex Salaverria from Quad City Arts commended the Mercado crew at the International Market for their excellent representation and the success of the events.

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 McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, and Finch; nays: none.

City Council convened in Executive Session at 8:39 p.m.

Council reconvened in open session at 9:45 p.m.

Adjournment of City Council

Upon motion of Alderperson Castro, seconded by Alderperson Macias, the Council meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.

The next regularly scheduled City Council meeting is on July 8, 2025. View recorded meetings at http://www.moline.il.us/remotecouncil

http://www.moline.il.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/10979