Rock Island Today

City of Moline Committee of the Whole & Council met Oct. 14.

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

Stephanie Murphy, City Clerk

Carol Barnes, Director of Finance

David Dryer, Director of Engineering ~electronically

Eric Griffith, Director of Parks & Recreation

Jennifer Bizarri, Assistant Director of Community & Economic Development

Bryon Lear, Director of Library Services ~electronically

Denver Schmitt, Director of Public Works

Laura Williamson, Director of Utilities

Darren Gault, Chief of Police

Jerry Sottos, Deputy Fire Chief

Kris Johnson, Deputy Fire Chief

David Rowatt, Information Technology Manager

Ashley Allen Smith, Community Engagement Manager

OTHERS: Troy Stinson, Strand Associates

David Silverman, Ancel Glink

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.

Questions on the Agenda

On Committee-of-the-Whole agenda item 6.1 and Council agenda item 18.1, there has been a decrease in the amount of interest. Council has received a hard copy of the updated agreement; someone will need to make an amended motion to approve the updated agreement.

Agenda Items

6.1 A Resolution authorizing the Fire Chief to execute a Short Form Conditional Sale Agreement with Flex Financial, a division of Stryker Sales, LLC for the purchase and service coverage of three (3) Lifepak 35 Monitors and two (2) Power Load Systems from Stryker for the amount of $323,216.65 plus interest for the total amount of $363,465.48. Jerry Sottos, Deputy Fire Chief, purchasing cardiac monitors. There are three currently from 2013 that are no longer serviceable. As far as the agreement with Stryker, the interest rate was given in September and the rate has dropped a little bit so we are saving $40 per year for each of the six years. There is a six-year agreement with a service plan (See Attachment No. 1).

An amended motion was made by Alderperson Schmidt, seconded by Alderperson Timion, to approve authorizing the Fire Chief to execute a Short Form Conditional Sale Agreement with Flex Financial, a division of Stryker Sales, LLC for the purchase and service coverage of three (3) Lifepak 35 Monitors and two (2) Power Load Systems from Stryker for the amount of $323,216.65 plus interest for the total amount of $363,224.94. Discussion held. Motion passed unanimously.

6.2 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Parks and Recreation to purchase a Mini-Pitch System for Riverside Park from Musco Lighting for the amount of $111,700.00 utilizing the Sourcewell Contract Number 041123-MSL.A Resolution. Eric Griffith, Director of Parks and Recreation, reported that having two mini-pitches was the original plan. However, due to the bids, one was cut. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

6.3 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to an agreement for professional services between the City of Moline and Thomas A. Skorepa to extend his services as the City’s Zoning Hearing Officer for a three-year period commencing October 21, 2025. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported that the City is looking to extend the services of Mr. Skorepa based upon an agreement that expired in 2019. There is not a zoning board of appeals but he is the zoning hearing officer. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion passed unanimously.

6.4 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 repealing subsection (g) in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new subsection (g) dealing with the same subject matter. Bill Atkins, City Attorney, reported that the purpose behind this change in the Ordinance is to prevent sales of tobacco to those who are underage. The City is aware that this has been occurring but, due to the current form of the Ordinance nothing can be enforced. This change will require all businesses

selling tobacco to ask for identification unless they can point to some justification that the person purchasing the product appearing to be age 40 or older. Atkins stated that should City Council approve the change in the Ordinance, a letter will be sent out to all businesses who have a tobacco license. The businesses will be informed that the City will be testing this for compliance in the near future. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

6.5 An Ordinance amending Chapter 22, “OFFENSES-MISCELLANEOUS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, ARTICLE 1, “IN GENERAL,” by enacting one new DIVISION 9 entitled “PRIVATE SECURITY GUARDS.” Darren Gault, Chief of Police, stated the City of Moline, along with most of the Quad Cities, has not experienced the presence of private security guards in businesses to the extent commonly seen in large urban cities. Recently, there was a local business who hired armed security guards and they were not in compliance with State regulations. This Ordinance update gives the City of Moline Police Department the right to enforce the regulations. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

6.6 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute Task Order No. 25-04 Pursuant to Agreement for Technical Services dated December 18, 2018, with Strand Associates, Inc., dated October 1, 2025, regarding North Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) construction related services for the Chemical Phosphorus Removal Improvements Project, for the amount of $196,000; and authorizing the Director of Utilities to execute any necessary documents related to this work. Laura Williamson, Director of Utilities, stated this is an agreement with Strand and Associates to continue services with the work being completed at the North Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant. A portion of the fee would be on-site construction management. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Motion passed unanimously.

6.7 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Utilities to execute an Agreement for Services with Terracon Consultants, Inc., for concrete material testing, geotechnical construction-related services and special inspection services as required for the South Slope Wastewater Reclamation Facility Improvements construction project for the estimated amount of $198,880.00; and authorizing the Director of Utilities to execute any necessary documents related to this work. Laura Williamson, Director of Utilities, stated there is a lot of demolition happening at the South Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant. Williamson reported that it is important to test the materials. Terracon was involved with soil analysis and that information has been used in the construction development plans. Staff is requesting to continue services with Terracon. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Razzaque. Motion passed unanimously.

6.8 A Resolution granting a variance to Chapter 28, “STREETS AND SIDEWALKS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 28-3200, “WHEN REQUIRED; ENGINEER’S GENERAL RESPONSIBILITY; TEMPORARY CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY; VARIANCES,” subsection (a), and Chapter 35, “ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT,” Section 35-4218 “SIDEWALKS,” to allow a temporary modification to delay installation of a public sidewalk along 14th Street for the subject property located at 3418 14th Street, Moline. Jennifer Bizarri, Assistant Director of Community and Economic Development, reported a new single-family home is being built at 3418 14th Street. The homeowner, Scott Shattuck, hasrequested a temporary modification to delay a public sidewalk. Bizarri stated there are a few other variances for sidewalks granted on the same street. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Castro. Discussion held. Motion tied on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Macias, Finch, Castro, and Schmidt; nays: Alderperson Razzaque, Timion, McNeil, Murphy. Mayor Rayapati voted in favor of the item. Motion carried.

6.9 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Licensing Agreement with Harolds Chicken & Sports Bar LLC to install, use, and maintain a sign and awnings overhanging 5th Avenue and 15th Street right-of-way at 425 15th Street. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported a licensing agreement is required by Code. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Timion. Motion passed unanimously.

6.10 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Licensing Agreement with New Style Barbershop Inc. to install, use, and maintain pan faces in existing wall sign for advertising/identification purposes only above the entrance of 3217 Avenue of the Cities, Moline, Illinois, that will overhang public right-of-way. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported there was previously a sign with the old business and the licensing agreement is required with new business. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Macias. Motion passed unanimously.

6.11 An Ordinance authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute and attest to a Redevelopment and Economic Incentive Agreement, between the City of Moline and Illinois Domus Two, LLC, related to the TIF 13 – Moline Centre Redevelopment Project Area, as amended. Chris Parr, Economic Development Manager, reported that renderings of the development were handed out to Council. The TIF economic incentive request is $1.92 million for an approximately $15.4 million-dollar project to include a minimum of 64 residential units. TIF 13 expires in 2039. The City Council previously adopted a resolution to include an additional .09-acre tract of land to the west of the main .55-acre tract of land deemed necessary for the redevelopment in order to maximize the density of the site and to remove a blighted structure. Staff is recommending approval of this Ordinance. A motion was made by Alderperson Finch to approve. Seconded by Alderperson Timion. Discussion held. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, shared his appreciation to Jim Thompson, owner of Illinois Domus Two, LLC, for the respect he has shown to the community. Mr. Thompson thanked the City for helping to make this a viable project. Vitas thanked Chris Parr, Economic Development Manager and David Silverman, attorney with Ancel Glink, for their role in this redevelopment project. Motion passed unanimously.

Informational

7.1 Administration’s Recommendation on 2026-2028 Budgets. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reported the proposed 2026 budget totals $164.1 million with healthy cash reserves across all funds (See Attachment No. 2). He stated the budget aligns with the City Council’s plan and the Strategic Plan and it provides sustainable solutions for the future. Vitas highlighted the Special Capital Projects Fund, noting that approximately $2,000,000 is earmarked over the next three years, and reported seed funding for the Moline Housing Fund, which could leverage up to $10 million in private investment. He noted that the levy has decreased for the fifth consecutive year, cautioning that a slowdown in development would require a measured approach to service costs.

Carol Barnes, Director of Finance, reviewed the operating budget, noting that 26% is allocated to salaries and benefits, and that the City continues a philosophy of lean operations alongside an aggressive capital investment. She reported the top four revenues sources include intergovernmental funds, charges for services (which is primarily the utility fees from the four enterprise funds), other City taxes (which includes hotel/motel, prepared food, home rule sale tax) and property taxes, comprising 51% of the total revenues. Barnes noted the Equalized Assessed Value (EAV) has exceeded $1 billion for the first time, resulting in the lowest levy rate in 36 years while still generating an $837,582 increase in total property taxes. She reported the average annual property tax increase is estimated at $37 for residential properties and $147 for commercial properties.

Barnes reported the total monthly impact of the proposed utility, franchise, and property tax fee change is $9.18 or $110.20 annually with a three-year average projection of $7.75 per month or $93 annually. She stated the top budget expenditures are capital projects, public safety, and salaries for new personnel. Four new full-time positions are proposed for 2026, bringing the total to 425 authorized positions. The cost includes salaries and benefits including one additional position for an Assistant Director of Utilities not previously presented. The general fund balance is projected at 23.84% in 2026, within City policy.

Barnes reviewed the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds, noting anticipated increases in increment due to rising EAVs and new development. She reported two new funds will be established and two funds will be closed in 2026, all within City policy. The remaining 2026 budget items will be discussed at the Saturday, October 18 budget work session.

7.2 October 2025 Status & Information Report. Bob Vitas, City Administrator, highlighted the collaborative contract with Lamar Johnson for the comprehensive plan. The steering committee is scheduled to hold its kickoff meeting on October 21. The Path Forward program is active, providing one time financial assistance to residents actively engaged in recovery through the Moline Drug Court Program, the Robert Young Center or Top of the World Ranch. Additionally, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the South Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant.

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 September 23, 2025.

Second Reading Ordinances

15.1 3044-2025 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.

15.2 3045-2025 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 non-conforming buildings in the Moline Centre districts.

15.3 3046-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 15, “GARBAGE AND TRASH,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 15-2102, “CURBSIDE RECYCLING CARTS,” by repealing subsection (b) in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new subsection (b), dealing with the same subject matter; and amending Section 15-2200, “FEE FOR RESIDENTIAL REFUSE COLLECTION,” by repealing said section in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new Section 15-2200, dealing with the same subject matter.

15.4 3047-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 34, “WATER AND SEWERS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 34-2121, “CHARGES AND COLLECTIONS,” by repealing said section in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new Section 34-2121, dealing with the same subject matter.

15.5 3048-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 34, “WATER AND SEWERS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 34-3200, “SEWERAGE RATE SYSTEM,” by repealing said section in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new Section 34-3200, dealing with the same subject matter.

15.6 3049-2025 An Ordinance amending Chapter 34, “WATER AND SEWERS,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Section 34-4400, “IN GENERAL,” by repealing said section in its entirety and enacting in lieu thereof one new Section 34-4400, dealing with the same subject matter.

Resolutions

16.1 1167-2025 A Resolution approving the establishment of a Block Party Policy effective January 1, 2026.

16.2 1168-2025 A Resolution approving the special event application for the Día de los Muertos Celebration scheduled for Saturday, November 1, 2025, that is sponsored by Mercado on 5TH, Inc.; 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 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 Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, and Murphy; nays: none.

Non-Consent Agenda

Resolutions

18.1 1169-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Fire Chief to execute a Short Form Conditional Sale Agreement with Flex Financial, a division of Stryker Sales, LLC for the purchase and service coverage of three (3) Lifepak 35 Monitors and two (2) Power Load Systems from Stryker for the amount of $323,216.65 plus interest for the total amount of $363,465.48.

Approved. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Schmidt, moved to approve Council Bill 1169- 2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, and Murphy; nays: none.

18.2 1170-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute Task Order No. 25-04 Pursuant to Agreement for Technical Services dated December 18, 2018, with Strand Associates, Inc., dated October 1, 2025, regarding North Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) construction related services for the Chemical Phosphorus Removal Improvements Project, for the amount of $196,000; and authorizing the Director of Utilities to execute any necessary documents related to this work.

Approved. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Castro, moved to approve Council Bill 1170- 2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, and Murphy; nays: none.

18.3 1171-2025 A Resolution authorizing the Director of Utilities to execute an Agreement for services with Terracon Consultants, Inc., for concrete material testing, geotechnical construction related services and special inspection services as required for the South Slope Wastewater Reclamation Facility Improvements construction project for the estimated amount of $198,880; and authorizing the Director of Utilities to execute any necessary documents related to this work.

Approved. Alderperson Finch, seconded by Alderperson Macias, moved to approve Council Bill 1171- 2025. Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, and Murphy; nays: none.

Non-Consent Agenda

First Reading Ordinances

19.1 An Ordinance amending Chapter 20, “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, Appendix 5 thereof, “ALL-WAY STOP INTERSECTIONS,” by adding the intersection of Forty-Third Street and Fifth Avenue, north and south branches.

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

19.2 An Ordinance amending Chapter 20, “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC,” of the Moline Code of Ordinances, by enacting a new Appendix 15 thereof entitled “THIRTY-MINUTE PARKING RESTRICTIONS IN NON-METERED ZONES,” and adding one on-street stall thereto at 1518 15th Street.

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

Miscellaneous Business

Mayor Rayapati shared that she will email Council a summary of her recent visit to the Hunt Institute to share what the City of Moline is doing with childcare and workforce development. There is collaboration with the Moline-Coal Valley School District and Skip a Long as well as the work of the Economic Development Manager, Chris Parr’s work on the statewide committee. Mayor Rayapati stated she is looking forward to a conversation with the Quad Cities Chamber about making childcare a priority for residents who need childcare.

Alderperson Timion thanked Public Works department for attending the trunk-or-treat at Logan Elementary School with an array of public workforce vehicles.

Bob Vitas, City Administrator, reminded those in attendance that the employee appreciation cookout would be held Wednesday, October 15 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Peterson Park and Friday, October 17 Toys for Tots toy drive will be at Public Works from 6:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

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 Property Acquisition - 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(5) and Price Setting for Sale or Lease of Real Property - 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(6). Motion carried on roll call with the following vote: ayes: Alderpersons Macias, Razzaque, Timion, Finch, McNeil, Castro, Schmidt, and Murphy; nays: none.

City Council convened in Executive Session at 8:01 p.m.

Council reconvened in open session at 8:33 p.m.

Adjournment of City Council

Upon motion of Alderperson Castro, seconded by Alderperson Finch, the Council meeting adjourned at 8:33 p.m.

http://www.moline.il.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/11335