Rock Island Today

City of Moline Committee of the Whole & Council met Sept. 9.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

Committee-of-the-Whole Call to Order

PRESENT: 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) ~ Mayor Pro Tem

Alderperson Daniel McNeil (Ward 6)

Alderperson Anna Castro (Ward 7)

Alderperson James Patrick Schmidt (Alderperson At-Large)

ABSENT: Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati (Chair)

STAFF: Bob Vitas, City Administrator

Barry Dykhuizen, Assistant City Administrator

Bill Atkins, City Attorney

Brandi Russell, Deputy City Clerk

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

KJ Whitley, Community Development Manager ~ electronically

Chris Parr, Community Development Manager

Bryon Lear, Director of Library Services ~ electronically

Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works

Darren Gault, Chief of Police

Steve Regenwether, Fire Chief

David Rowatt, Information Technology Manager

Ashley Allen Smith, Community Engagement Manager

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

Roll Call

Roll call was taken with Alderpersons Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, and Schmidt present. Absent: Mayor Rayapati.

Approval of Remote Electronic Attendance

None.

Oath of Office

Oath of Office for regular commissioned appointment as Police Officer to Tanner Gillispie, effective September 03, 2025.

Board Appointments

Mayor's appointment of Cynthia Green to the Human Rights Commission for a two-year term to expire August 31, 2027.

Presentation

Recognition of Barbara "Barb" Sandberg for her outstanding dedication and years of service to the Moline community. Mayor Pro Tem Finch recognized Barbara Sandberg for her many years of public service and dedicated contributions to the City of Moline. Sandberg was a charter member of the Moline Preservation Society, established in 1986, and served on the Historic Preservation Commission for 30 years and the Commercial Façade Improvement Committee for 31 years. In recognition of her service, Sandberg was presented with a Key to the City.

Sandberg addressed the Council and reflected on her years of civic involvement, including her tenure as First Ward Alderperson and participation on various boards and initiatives. She spoke on key issues she was involved in, including early discussions on riverboat gambling, the development of the Civic Center, parking strategy, and historic preservation efforts. A reception in honor of Sandberg was held in the Committee-of-the-Whole Conference Room.

Questions on the Agenda

Items #9.6 and #21.1 were pulled from the Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council agendas.

Agenda Items

9.1 An Ordinance amending Chapter 23, “PARKS AND RECREATION,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, ARTICLE II, “OPERATION OF PARK AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES,” Section 23-2102, “RULES OF CONDUCT APPLICABLE TO ALL PARKS,” by repealing subsection (7) in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new subsection (7) relating to the same subject matter, to allow not-for-profits the sale, possession, and consumption of alcoholic beverages in compliance with Section 4-3309, “CLASS I SPECIAL EVENT NOT FOR PROFIT LICENSE,” through a special use application approved by the Moline Park Board. Eric Griffith, Director of Parks & Recreation, introduced an amendment allowing non-profits to apply for a Class I liquor license for events in City parks. Under the proposed process, the Park Board must first approve a Special Use Permit, after which the applicant may apply for a Class I liquor license through the City Clerk’s Office, provided they meet requirements such as obtaining dram shop insurance. A motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro.

During discussion, concerns were raised about whether the amendment would permit applications for events at Riverside Riverslide, which are currently prohibited. Although the Park Board would not allow such events, the current language could be interpreted to permit them.

Alderperson Schmidt made a motion to amend the language in Sec. 23-2102(7) by adding the words “or Riverside Riverslide” after the words “Green Valley.” Seconded by Alderperson Timion. The motion to amend passed unanimously. The motion as amended also passed unanimously.

9.2 A Resolution approving a special event that is sponsored by Rouse Consulting Group, Inc., for the RCG 30th Anniversary Block Party event scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 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.

A motion was made by Alderperson Macias to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro.

Alderperson Schmidt recused himself from the vote due to a conflict of interest, as Rouse Consulting Group is a client of his employer.

Bob Vitas, City Administrator, stated that staff recommends approval of this event. Motion passed unanimously.

9.3 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Public Works to execute an application for funding under the Rock Island County Waste Management Agency (RICWMA) for the Solid Waste Assistance Grant (SWAG) Program (FY26) for the amount of $42,985.00 to be used for solid waste management, recycling or educational related activities within the community and authorizing the Director of Public Works to do all things necessary to complete and submit said application. Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works, stated that the City of Moline applies annually for the Solid Waste Assistance Grant (SWAG) through the Rock Island County Waste Management Agency (RICWMA). Staff is seeking authorization to proceed with the application process. The grant amount is based on population per capita. The application is due on September 10, 2025, which is why it is appearing on both agendas this evening for approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Timion to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

9.4 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to mow and maintain State right-of-way within the City. Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works, explained that the current 10-year agreement with IDOT for mowing State rights-of-way has expired. IDOT is asking the City to enter into a new 10-year agreement. Reimbursement for services will be provided quarterly. A motion was made by Alderperson Timion to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Schmidt. Discussion held. Vitas stated that staff will explore alternatives for outsourcing the maintenance of State rights-of-way. Motion passed unanimously.

9.5 A Resolution approving the special event application for the annual Lighting on the Commons event scheduled for Saturday, November 22, 2025, closing certain streets more particularly described herein to vehicular traffic, and authorizing the use of public property in conjunction with said event for the uses and purposes more particularly described in Exhibits A and B. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, shared that staff recommends approval of the annual Lighting on the Commons event. A motion was made by Alderperson Castro to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion passed unanimously.

9.7 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 C Head Shop Licenses in the City of Moline at the request of AAA Retailers LLC, d/b/a Yabba Dabbas. Bill Atkins, City Attorney, introduced Items #9.7 and #9.8 together, noting their related nature. A new entity is interested in purchasing Yabba Dabbas and is applying for a new Class C tobacco license. Licenses are not transferable; therefore, the existing license will be surrendered, and a new one issued to the incoming owner. This does not increase the total number of Class C licenses. However, a Class B tobacco license is also required due to the sale of tobacco products. A motion was made by Alderperson Razzaque to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Schmidt.

Alderperson McNeil expressed concern over the high concentration of tobacco establishments in the area and the lack of business diversity, stating he had hoped the number of such businesses would naturally decline over time. Other alderpersons shared similar concerns. However, it was noted that denying the license would prevent the current owner from selling the business. Discussion included the possibility of implementing sunset provisions or creating distance requirements for tobacco licenses, similar to those that exist for Class C liquor licenses. Atkins stated that additional regulatory options could be explored. Brandi Russell, Deputy City Clerk, clarified that Yabba Dabbas had been misclassified when tobacco license caps and classes were established earlier in the year; it should have originally held both Class B and Class C licenses. The current owner applied for both licenses during renewal and submitted the appropriate affidavits, and the purchaser plans to continue the same business operations. Atkins noted that while the City effectively regulates tobacco licenses, challenges remain in correctly classifying them, and some clean-up is to be expected. The motion carried by voice vote.

9.8 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 AAA Retailers LLC, d/b/a Yabba Dabbas. A motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. The motion carried by voice vote.

9.9 An Ordinance amending Chapter 35, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, regarding zoning text amendments to ARTICLE III, “ZONING,” DIVISION 9, “MOLINE CENTRE DISTRICTS,” Section 35-3909, “REVIEW PROCEDURES” to allow for more building design flexibility for nonconforming buildings in the Moline Centre districts. Chris Mathias, Director of Community and Economic Development, presented proposed amendments to the form-based code related to nonconforming structures. He explained that renovations to nonconforming buildings in Moline Centre would now follow the existing nonconforming design standards used throughout the rest of the city. Public hearing notices were published, and the Plan Commission reviewed and approved the amendments. City Council approval is now requested. A motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias.

Mathias noted that while there are opportunities for new construction downtown, existing buildings are exempt from these new requirements. The proposed code changes aim to support redevelopment, reduce costs for property owners and developers, and encourage investment in existing buildings. The motion passed unanimously.

9.10 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute an Independent Contractor Agreement for Professional Services with the Lamar Johnson Collaborative, Inc., an Illinois corporation d/b/a LJC to develop the Moline Comprehensive Plan Update. Chris Mathias, Director of Community and Economic Development, introduced the item and explained that two alderpersons and staff participated in the RFP selection process for a consultant from among 14 respondents to the RFP. Lamar Johnson Collaborative, Inc. (LJC) was selected for their strong understanding of the City Council’s goals, including increasing neighborhood density, exploring creative zoning solutions, and revitalizing commercial districts. The comprehensive planning process is expected to take 13 to 14 months. A motion was made by Alderperson Timion to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias.

Questions were raised regarding the City’s multi-modal plan from three years ago and whether it would remain part of the process. Mathias confirmed that the comprehensive plan will include a multi-modal component. The motion passed unanimously.

9.11 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 and 4th Avenue A (alley) between 17th and 18th Street, to sell alcoholic liquor in conjunction with the “Rouse Consulting Group 30th Anniversary Block Party” on September 25, 2025.

Alderperson Schmidt recused himself from the vote due to a conflict of interest, as Rouse Consulting Group is a client of his employer.

Bob Vitas, City Administrator, said that staff is recommending approval. A motion was made by Alderperson Macias to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

9.12 A Resolution approving the 2026-2029 Strategic Plan Goals and Objectives. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, introduced the new Strategic Plan Goals and Objectives for 2026–2029. He explained that the plan was developed through work sessions with City Council and refined during a full-day session with department directors at the Moline Public Library. The plan incorporates input from Council, staff, and the community, and is informed by survey results from residents and businesses conducted by Polco. The strategy aims to preserve areas where the City performed well and improve areas with lower scores. Upon adoption, staff would move forward with a plan to support its implementation. A motion was made by Alderperson Castro to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque.

Alderperson Schmidt expressed general support for the plan but raised concern about the use of the term “regional approach” in relation to the City’s water supply strategy, noting it could imply ceding some control to other governments. Vitas clarified that the reference was historical and that the City is no longer pursuing a regional authority over surrounding municipalities such as Silvis, Milan, and Coal Valley. The focus now is on a comprehensive development plan for the largely undeveloped area south of the Rock River. He noted that Moline, as a post-industrial city, has an excess water supply. The City will continue exploring wholesale water sales rather than entering into intergovernmental agreements.

Alderperson Schmidt made a motion to amend the language in Goal 1.2A, removing the words “Regional Approach to”. Seconded by Alderperson Castro.

The motion to amend carried by voice vote. Discussion held on Goal 2.1A, “Increase Availability for All Housing Categories” and projected population growth. The motion as amended passed unanimously.

Informational

10.1 September 2025 Status & Information Report. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reviewed highlights from the Status & Information Report. Vitas noted the upcoming groundbreaking for the South Slope Reconstruction Project, scheduled for next week.

10.2 Artisan Zoning and Maker District Discussion. Chris Mathias, Director of Community and Economic Development, introduced a presentation on artisan zoning and the potential for establishing a "maker district" in Moline, referencing slides in Attachment No. 1. He explained that artisan uses are already permitted under the City’s form-based code, but with limitations. The concept originated from the Mayor and was brought to the Plan Commission, which discussed focusing efforts on the Old Towne District. Mathias outlined the proposed next steps, including outreach to existing business owners, an inventory of buildings and storefronts, assessment of district feasibility, branding strategies, and securing property owner buy-in. Public outreach and potential incentives, such as façade improvement grants, forgivable loans for interior work, and other funding options were also discussed. He noted that the Façade Improvement Committee has remaining funds from 2025 that could be allocated toward this effort.

City Council feedback was generally supportive. Alderpersons expressed enthusiasm and discussed strategic incentives, appropriate locations, and avoiding competition with other cities. There was opposition to placing the district downtown and it was suggested exploring Old Towne or other underutilized areas. Mathias confirmed the concept remains preliminary and further evaluation is planned.

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

Pledge of Allegiance

Invocation

None.

Roll Call

Roll call was taken with Alderpersons Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, and Schmidt present. Absent: Mayor Rayapati

Consent Agenda

Approval of Minutes and Appointments

Committee-of-the-Whole meeting minutes of August 19, 2025, Committee-of-the-Whole, Council, and Executive Session meeting minutes of August 26, 2025, and appointments made at Committee-of-the Whole on September 9, 2025.

Second Reading Ordinances

18.1 3036-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 35, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, regarding certain corrections, additions and/or clarifications to the zoning and land development regulations, including amendments to ARTICLE I, “GENERAL PROVISIONS AND ADMINISTRATION,” DIVISION 2, “WORD USAGE, ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS,” Section 35-1203, “DEFINITIONS;” ARTICLE III, “ZONING,” DIVISION 4, “LAND USE REGULATIONS,” Section 35-3401, “REGULATION OF ALLOWED USES,” Table 35-3401.1, “Permitted Land Uses;” Section 35-3409, “PRINCIPAL TRANSPORTATION AND UTILITY LAND USES,” and Section 35-3415, “ACCESSORY TRANSPORTATION AND UTILITY LAND USES,” concerning commercial principal and accessory solar energy systems.

18.2 3037-2025 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 owner Jeremy Webb of Webb Services LLC d/b/a Casey's Tavern, 1512 15th Street, Moline.

18.3 3038-2025 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 Jessica Bernauer, purchaser of the Dew Drop Inn, 3620 4th Avenue, Moline.

18.4 3039-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 35, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 35-3204 “‘R-2’ ONE-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT,” by repealing Section 35-3204 in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new Section 35-3204 dealing with the same subject matter; and amending Table 35-3201.1, “Residential and Resource Districts Principal Structure Bulk Standards,” by repealing Table 35-3201.1 in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new Table 35-3201.1 dealing with the same subject matter; and amending Table 35-3201.2.1, “Residential and Resource Districts Building Lot Coverage,” by repealing Table 35-3201.2.1 in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new Table 35-3201.2.1 dealing with the same subject matter; and amending Table 35-5100.3, “Minimum Required Parking Spaces,” by repealing Table 35-5100.3, in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new Table 35- 5100.3, dealing with the same subject matter.

18.5 3040-2025 An Ordinance rescinding Ordinance No. 3015-2024 and partially rescinding a Redevelopment and Economic Incentive Agreement by and between the City of Moline, Renew Moline Properties, LLC, 1701 Series, and 1701 5th Ave, LLC.

Resolutions

19.1 1149-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Local Public Agency Engineering Services Agreement for Phase II Engineering Design for Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Section Number 24-00296-00-SW, River Drive Streetscaping Project from 12th Street to 19th Street, for an amount not to exceed $301,400.00.

19.2 1150-2025 A Resolution authorizing a grant to the Sprint the Miss event, sponsored by Two Rivers YMCA, for the amount of $1,000 from the Special Events Fund to help offset expenses for the annual event to be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025.

19.3 1151-2025 A Resolution approving the special event application for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s event scheduled for Saturday, September 13, 2025, that is sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association; authorizing a grant to the Alzheimer’s Association for the amount of $500 from the Special Events Fund to support the Friends of Walk marketing distribution plan; 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 1152-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to an Intergovernmental Agreement by and between the City of Moline and Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit Authority (MetroLINK) Consisting of Electric Vehicle Charging Station Host Lease Agreement.

19.5 1153-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Licensing Agreement with CBI Bank & Trust for an underground private electrical line located in 36th Street right-of-way.

Omnibus Vote

Alderperson Castro, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, moved to approve and adopt, by omnibus vote, these items. 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

21.2 1154-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Public Works to execute an application for funding under the Rock Island County Waste Management Agency (RICWMA) for the Solid Waste Assistance Grant (SWAG) Program (FY26) for the amount of $42,985.00 to be used for solid waste management, recycling or educational related activities within the community and authorizing the Director of Public Works to do all things necessary to complete and submit said application.

Approved. Alderperson Timion, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, moved to approve Council Bill 1154-2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

21.3 1155-2025 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 and 4th Avenue A (alley) between 17th and 18th Street, to sell alcoholic liquor in conjunction with the “Rouse Consulting Group 30th Anniversary Block Party” on September 25, 2025.

Alderperson Schmidt recused himself from the vote due to a conflict of interest, as Rouse Consulting Group is a client of his employer.

Approved. Alderperson Castro, seconded by Alderperson Macias, moved to approve Council Bill 1155- 2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, and McNeil; nays: none.

21.4 1156-2025 A Resolution amending the FY 2025 Budget adopted by City Council on December 3, 2024, Council Bill/Resolution No. 1174-2024, to reflect various changes to line items more particularly described herein and authorizing the Director of Finance to do all things necessary to complete said changes.

Approved. Alderperson Schmidt, seconded by Alderperson Macias, moved to approve Council Bill 1156- 2025. 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

First Reading Ordinances

22.1 An Ordinance amending Chapter 35, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, regarding public hearing notice requirements, including amendments to ARTICLE 2, DIVISION 2, Section 35-2201, “COMMON ELEMENTS OF PROCEDURES;” Section 35-2202, “COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT;” and Section 35-2203, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT AND REZONING.”

Advanced. Alderperson Macias, seconded by Alderperson Castro, moved to advance Item #22.1 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.

22.2 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 C Head Shop Licenses in the City of Moline at the request of AAA Retailers LLC, d/b/a Yabba Dabbas.

Advanced. Alderperson Macias, seconded by Alderperson Razzaque, moved to advance Item #22.2 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, and Finch; nays: Alderperson McNeil.

22.3 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 AAA Retailers LLC, d/b/a Yabba Dabbas.

Advanced. Alderperson Macias, seconded by Alderperson Schmidt, moved to advance Item #22.3 to second reading. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Castro, Schmidt, Murphy, Macias, Razzaque, Timion, and Finch; nays: Alderperson McNeil.

Miscellaneous Business

None.

Public Comment

There was no additional public comment.

Executive Session:

None.

Adjournment of City Council

Upon motion of Alderperson Schmidt, seconded by Alderperson Timion, the Council meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

A Special City Council meeting is scheduled for September 16, 2025. View recorded meetings at http://www.moline.il.us/remotecouncil

http://www.moline.il.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/11236