Rock Island Today

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

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 James Patrick Schmidt (Alderperson At-Large)

ABSENT: Alderperson Anna Castro (Ward 7)

STAFF: Bob Vitas, City Administrator

Barry Dykhuizen, Assistant City Administrator

Bill Atkins, City Attorney

Stephanie Murphy, 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 and Economic Development

Laura Williamson, Director of Utilities

Charles Brown, Assistant Director of Utilities

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

David Rowatt, Information Technology Manager

KJ Whitley, Community Development Manager

Christopher Parr, Economic Development Manager

Ashley Allen Smith, Community Engagement Manager

Melissa Kodatt, Administrative Coordinator for Utilities

Elizabeth Hanson, GIS & Records Coordinator

Annette Roby, Risk Management Administrator

Fawn Schultz, Employment Specialist

OTHERS: David Silverman, Corporation Counsel

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, and Schmidt present. Absent: Alderperson Castro.

Public Comment

Linda Ohrberg, Moline resident, expressed that while she understands she needs to bring her request to the Traffic and Engineering Committee, she wanted inform Council that she would like to see a blinking stop sign installed on 5th Ave at 2nd and 3rd Streets due to multiple accidents where drivers are running into the parked cars along that route. She would also like to have a bump-out to accommodate her parking space.

Oath of Office

Bob Vitas, City Administrator, introduced Laura Williamson as the new Director of Utilities. Mayor Rayapati administered the oath for the appointment of Laura Williamson to the position of Director of Utilities, effective July 7, 2025.

Board Appointments

Mayor’s appointment of Deb Bennett to the Citizens Advisory Council on Urban Policy for a 3-year term to expire July 31, 2028.

Mayor’s reappointment of Jersey Rivers, Brandy Poston, and Jozett McCoy to the Citizens Advisory Council on Urban Policy for 3-year terms to expire July 31, 2028.

Mayor’s appointment of Nathan Tillberg to the Plan Commission 6-year term to expire June 30, 2031. Mayor’s reappointment of Brett Carter to the Plan Commission for a 6-year term to expire June 30, 2031.

Presentation

7.1 ISAWWA Water Ambassador Program Award – Gold Level Designation. Charles Brown, Assistant Director of Utilities, introduced Annie Storey, Executive Director of the Illinois Section of the American Water Works Association (ISAWWA). Storey presented the Water Ambassador Gold Level Designation award to Melissa Kodatt, Administrative Coordinator for Utilities, and Elizabeth Hanson, GIS & Records Coordinator, in recognition of the City of Moline water quality.

7.2 City of Moline – Moline High School Internship. Brandon Tidwell, Human Resources Manager, shared the three key focus areas of the City of Moline’s high school internship program. (See Attachment No. 1). This summer, the program includes a total of nine interns. Interns Chelsea, Emme, Grant, Maria, and Kristin were present.

7.3 Payments to Agencies. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, discussed the City’s history of providing funding to various agencies. Vitas then highlighted the requests for 2026 for the Youth Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, River Action, Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance, and the Public Art Commission. Discussion held. Alderperson Schmidt inquired as to whether or not the Youth Commission has shared a rubric to assess where their money is going, noting that he would vote with zero allocation for the Youth Commission if that information is not received by the time the budget is set in the fall. Mayor Rayapati reported that she will coordinate with staff and follow-up to gather the necessary information.

Proclamation

Eric Griffith, Director of Parks and Recreation, stated this is the 40th year that the United States has recognized Parks and Recreation month in July. The theme for 2025 is “Build Together, Play Together.” There are over 160,000 employees across the United States employed full-time with 23 of them being in Moline. In addition, there are hundreds of thousands of part-time and seasonal staff. Moline has over 150 part-time and seasonal employees. Griffith thanked City Council and City staff for their support. Mayor Rayapati presented a Proclamation request to Griffith to declare the month of July 2025, as “Park and Recreation Month.”

Questions on the Agenda

None.

Agenda Items

10.1 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a License and Concession Agreement between the City of Moline, by and through its Park and Recreation Board, and Lil Stevie’s Taste of Somthin’ LLC for the purpose of selling food and beverages to the public from a mobile food unit or pushcart at the northeast parking lot of Stephens Park from July 17, 2025, through July 16, 2027, as weather permits, at the City’s sole discretion for a license fee of $700 per annum; and authorizing City staff to do any and all things necessary to fulfill the terms of the License and Concession Agreement. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, stated staff is recommending approval based on the Park Board recommendation. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Schmidt. Motion passed unanimously.

10.2 A Resolution authorizing participation in the State of Illinois Federal Surplus Property Program; and authorizing the Assistant Director of Public Works to submit the Federal Surplus Property Program Eligibility Application and do all things necessary to implement said program. Denver Schmitt, looking to enter into surplus property program. This is for not for profits to take advantage. This is a resource to inquire property. There is no obligation to make purchase. I will report out any purchases made through the program. Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works, reported that this is another resource staff can use to acquire vehicles and equipment and there is no obligation to participate in this program. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Schmidt. Motion passed unanimously.

10.3 A Resolution approving the installation of a single stop sign at the northeast corner of the intersection of 27th Avenue and 31st Street for west bound traffic; and directing City staff to install a single stop sign at the northeast corner of the intersection of 27th Avenue and 31st Street for west bound traffic. David Dryer, Director of Engineering, stated this request came through Alderperson Finch. The Traffic Engineering Committee reviewed the request and recommended installing the stop sign, as proposed, to maintain consistency with similar intersections in the neighborhood. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion passed unanimously.

10.4 An Ordinance amending Chapter 35, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, by enacting an amendment to the Zoning Map, incorporated therein as Section 35-3103 (1212 6th Avenue and 1230 6th Avenue). Chris Mathias, Director of Community and Economic Development, reported that this is an application from Illinois Domus Two, LLC. There will be 69 units of new market rate apartments and a commercial storefront. Mathias noted that the attached staff report outlines the evaluation conducted by the Community and Economic Development

Department, which received approval from the Plan Commission. Staff recommends moving forward with approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion passed unanimously.

10.5 A Resolution authorizing the Moline Public Art Commission (MPAC) to apply to the Illinois Arts Council for the Creative Project Grant for up to $12,000 and a grant from the Quad City Community Foundation for up to $50,000 for projects outlined in the Public Art Place Making Plan; and authorizing City staff to do any and all things necessary to apply to the Illinois Arts Council for the Creative Project Grant for up to $12,000 and a grant from the Quad City Community Foundation for up to $50,000 for projects outlined in the Public Art Place Making Plan. Chris Mathias, Director of Community and Economic Development, reported that Council previously directed the Public Art Commission to pursue grant opportunities for project. This request is to formally request authorization to pursue funding through these grant opportunities. A motion was made by Alderperson

Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Alderperson Schmidt thanked the Public Art Commission for pursuing the grants. Alderperson McNeil asked Mathias about the River Connections grant and whether or not they have a project in mind that fits the purpose of the grant as listed in the grant application. Mathias replied sharing a project they do have in mind. Motion passed unanimously.

10.6 A Resolution approving “Path Forward” Program; authorizing the use of opioid settlement funds in the amount of $80,000 to provide up to $5,000 in one-time financial assistance to eligible Moline residents actively engaged in substance use recovery programs; and authorizing the Community and Economic Development Department staff to do any and all things necessary to implement said program. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that staff had explained the use of the opioid settlement funds at the last meeting on June 17 and is now recommending approval by Council. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Schmidt. Motion passed unanimously.

10.7 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Licensing Agreement with JD Management LLC to install, use, and maintain pan faces in existing wall sign for advertising/identification purposes only above the entrance of 1825 7th Street, Moline, Illinois. Chris Mathias, Director of Community and Economic Development, reported that these types of licensing agreements are routine and will appear before Council periodically. When a sign permit is received, staff will check to see if there is also a licensing agreement. If there is no licensing agreement, one will be created. A motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Finch. Motion passed unanimously.

10.8 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Licensing Agreement with Bent River Brewing Co. for use of Parking Lot W to sell alcoholic liquor in conjunction with the “Rouse Consulting Group 30th Anniversary Block Party” on September 25, 2025. Alderperson Schmidt recused himself on the item, noting that Rouse Consulting Group is a client of his employer. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that staff is recommending approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion passed unanimously.

10.9 A Resolution approving the purchase of one (1) parcel of excess I-74 Bridge property from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for the total fair market value of $71,000; and directing City Administration and the City Attorney to pursue the purchase of said parcel with IDOT through its completion; and authorizing the Mayor, City Clerk, City Attorney and City staff to do all things necessary to acquire said real property. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that this is the final remnant parcel for the I-74 bridge property that originally the City was not interested in purchasing because of the lack of ability to use the property. In discussions with IDOT through the Riverfront Master Plan process with MKSK, and through the realignment of all of the access on River Drive, administration learned that IDOT is unable to record the easements of all of the City’s public utilities that link this property and they are basically rendering it undevelopable. They requested that in order for the City to proceed there would be a Resolution by Council authorizing the purchase of the property. In turn, the City would notify IDOT. Based upon receipt of this Resolution and a letter of purchase by the City, IDOT would process the deed in Springfield. The City is working with the Engineering department to establish the permanent easements from all of the underground utilities that exist on the north side of River Drive between I-74 onramp to Iowa and 23rd Street at the intersection. Staff is recommending approval. This property will then be sold to the Riverstone Group. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion passed unanimously.

10.10 A Resolution approving the inducement of the redevelopment of certain property within the Moline Centre TIF 13 Redevelopment Project Area. Christopher Parr, Economic Development Manager, reported on the request for Council to approve the Resolution that would induce the developer to incur certain costs relating to the project as listed in Item 10.4. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion passed unanimously.

10.11 A Resolution approving the designation of a developer and the inducement of the redevelopment of certain property within the 5th Avenue TIF 15 Redevelopment Project Area. Christopher Parr, Economic Development Manager, reported that the developer has informed the City that this rehabilitation project requires financial assistance for certain costs that would be incurred in connection with the project. The purpose of this Resolution is to formally identify the developer as the designated party for the property and to provide inducement for the developer to undertake certain project expenditures. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Timion. Motion passed unanimously.

Informational

11.1 July 2025 Status & Information Report. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, shared highlights of the July 2025 Status & Information report. Vitas mentioned that there are 11 new mobile food unit licenses. The Riverfront Master Plan base document is complete. The BUILD grant, which provides funds for surface transportation infrastructure project is delayed. It should have been back by June 30, 2025. Staff is monitoring it closely. The Community and Economic Development department has received $500,000 from the IHDA Home Repair and Accessibility Program grant. Human Resources has adopted a new electronic management system. All performance evaluations will now be completed electronically. Last, Vitas mentioned that the Marquis Harbor dredging project is complete. All of the material from the dredging will be there for up to 90 days. At the 90-day point, staff will evaluate and assess and what the City needs and will keep it on site and the rest will be disposed of with those who are interested.

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, and Schmidt present. Absent: Alderperson Castro.

Public Comment

There was no public comment.

Consent Agenda

Approval of Minutes and Appointments

Executive Session meeting minutes of June 3, 2025, Council meeting minutes of June 10, 2025, Committee-of-the-Whole, Council, Executive Session meeting minutes of June 17, 2025, and appointments made at Committee-of-the-Whole on July 8, 2025.

Second Reading Ordinances

19.1 3026-2025 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.

Resolutions

20.1 1102-2025 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.

20.2 1103-2025 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.

20.3 1104-2025 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.

20.4 1105-2025 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.

20.5 1106-2025 A Resolution approving a Supplemental Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code for Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Section Number 22-00284-00-RP, 47th Street Reconstruction, for the amount of $279,929.67.

20.6 1107-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Engineering to execute a Proposal for Construction Engineering Services with IMEG Corp. for Project 1497, 16th Street Viaduct Rehabilitation for an amount not to exceed $1,247,360.00.

20.7 1108-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a contract with Civil Constructors, Inc., doing business as Helm Civil, for Project 1497, 16th Street Viaduct Rehabilitation, for the amount of $9,542,536.15.

Omnibus Vote

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

Non-Consent Agenda

Resolutions

22.1 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a License and Concession Agreement between the City of Moline, by and through its Park and Recreation Board, and Lil Stevie’s Taste of Somthin’ LLC for the purpose of selling food and beverages to the public from a mobile food unit or pushcart at the northeast parking lot of Stephens Park from July 17, 2025, through July 16, 2027, as weather permits, at the City’s sole discretion for a license fee of $700 per annum; and authorizing City staff to do any and all things necessary to fulfill the terms of the License and Concession Agreement.

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

22.2 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to an Employment Agreement of City Administrator between the City of Moline and Bogdan Vitas, Jr. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, expressed gratitude to Mayor and Council for its leadership, cooperation, and collaboration. Vitas shared we have a great team of dedicated professionals.

Approval. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Timion, moved to advance Item #22.2 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

Non-Consent Agenda

First Reading Ordinances

23.1 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.

Advanced. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, moved to advance Item #23.1 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

23.2 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.

Advanced. Alderperson Schmidt seconded by Alderperson Finch, moved to advance Item #23.2 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

23.3 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.

Advanced. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, moved to advance Item #23.3 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

23.4 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.

Advanced. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque moved to advance Item #23.4 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

Miscellaneous Business

Mayor Rayapati shared that due to the shortened meeting this evening she would remain afterwards to review the staff’s strategic planning information.

Alderperson Murphy thanked everyone who attended her recent Ward meeting.

Alderperson Timion informed Council of his appointment to the board for Humility Homes. Even though there is no financial interest, he noted that he may need to recuse himself in the future. He is also open to discussing the organization with the Council as needed.

Alderperson Schmidt stated he has noticed activity and signs throughout the City recognizing Moline as a Bee City. He expressed gratitude to staff and the community for their efforts.

Bob Vitas, City Administrator, expressed interest in meeting one-on-one with each Council member, along with Ashley Allen, Community Engagement Manager, and Macy McManus, Executive Coordinator, to assist when Ward meetings are planned. The goal of the one-on-one meeting is to review the Polco study results, focusing especially on the community survey data broken down by Ward. This will enable a deeper understanding of resident feedback and help tailor the meeting discussions to the most relevant issues. Additionally, this insight will support preparations for the upcoming budget workshops. Vitas stated Ashley and Macy would reach out to coordinate scheduling based on Council member availability.

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 Pending, Probable or Imminent Litigation – 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(11). Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and

McNeil; nays: none.

City Council convened in Executive Session at 7:02 p.m.

Council reconvened in open session at 7:31 p.m.

Adjournment of City Council

Upon motion of Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, the Council meeting adjourned at 7:32 p.m.

http://www.moline.il.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/11051