HomeMy WebLinkAbout121922 City Council Meeting Minutes4:45 p.m.CDBG Public Infrastructure Application
5:00 p.m.CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Application
Galesburg City Council Regular Meeting
City Council Chambers
55 West Tompkins Street, Galesburg, Illinois
December 19, 2022
5:30 p.m.
Called to order by Mayor Peter Schwartzman at 5:30 p.m.
Roll Call #1:Present:Mayor Peter Schwartzman,Council Members Bradley Hix,Wayne Dennis,
Kevin Wallace,Dwight White,Jaclyn Smith-Esters,Sarah Davis,and Larry Cox,8.Also Present:
City Manager Gerald C.Smith,Interim City Attorney Paul Mangieri,and City Clerk Kelli
Bennewitz.
Mayor Schwartzman declared a quorum present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Pastor Tony Franklin gave the invocation.
Council Member Dennis moved,seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters,to approve the
minutes of the City Council’s regular meeting from December 5, 2022.
Roll Call #2:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Council Member Cox moved,seconded by Council Member White,to adjourn into Executive
Session at 5:33 p.m.for the purposes of discussing the appointment,employment,
compensation,discipline,performance,or dismissal of specific employees (5 ILCS 120/2 (c)(1)
and the approval of the executive session minutes from December 5,2022,meeting (5 ILCS
120/2 (c)(21).
Roll Call #3:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
During the Executive Session,Council Member Smith-Esters,seconded by Council Member
Dennis, to adjourn the Executive Session and reconvene the regular meeting at 6:14 p.m.
Roll Call #4:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
December 19, 2022 Page 1 of 16
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
CONSENT AGENDA #2022-24
All matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the City Council and will
be enacted by one motion.
22-3048
Approve Roanoke Concrete Products for the annual supply of fill and patch materials for the
2023 calendar year and the following products with the vendors listed below:
●Course Aggregate CA-6 (Gravel or Crushed Stone) – Mill Creek Mining
●Course Aggregate CA-6 (Crushed White Stone),Mason Sand (Delivered),Fill Sand
(Delivered), and Trench Backfill Sand (Delivered) – Gunther Construction
●Hot Mix Asphalt Binder and Surface Course – River City Supply
●Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM)Mix 4 and Cold Patch (Emulsion)–Galesburg
Builders Supply
●High Performance Patching Mixture – Tickle Asphalt Co
22-3049
Approve the proposal submitted by Gold Medal Galesburg to supply concession items for the
2023-2027 concession years.
22-6007
Approve the following commission appointments:
Dave Christensen, Airport Advisory Commission, term expires September 2023.
Jane Easterly, Tree Commission, term expires June 2025.
Pat Grant, Tree Commission, term expires June 2025.
22-5017
Receive the 2023 Calendar of Meetings.
22-8023
Approve bills in the amount of $1,299,005.55 and advance checks in the amount of
$1,238,416.59.
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member White,to approve Consent
Agenda 2022-24.
Roll Call #5:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried by omnibus vote.
December 19, 2022 Page 2 of 16
Mayor Schwartzman announced that he understands many are in attendance to talk about
several important issues and while he is unsure of what will happen,he believes the community
will win.He stated that this portion of the Public Comment will allow residents to speak for
three minutes.He further stated that clapping,cheering,etc.will not be tolerated in order for
other people to hear the statements.
Connie Dennis,Ward Two,thanked a small team of people who distributed signs against the
sales tax increase and went door-to-door with petitions.She stated that she met with a lot of
hopeful community members who were adamantly against the increase.She thanked many
business owners and their customers who provided ways for residents to sign the petitions as
well.Ms.Dennis submitted petitions with over 1,400 signatures to the City Clerk.She added
that the number of signatures gathered was way more than the 400 survey responses that the
City received.
Jerry Ryberg addressed the Council and stated he believes we need a community center,as well
as maintenance on streets and roads.He feels that a community center would be for the entire
community and that the sales tax increase is minimal.
Walt McAllister addressed the Council and gave statistics on why a community center is good
for a community,including that it ’s proven to strengthen social connections,health and
well-being,and support networks.It would decrease care-giving burdens of many residents and
help at-risk youth in our community.A community center would boost the economy and
provide a strong,safe,and inclusive environment.He noted that he believes we are
under-serving our most vulnerable population;the same population that cannot vote in April.
He asked the Council to do the right thing and not put off a decision tonight.
Samuel Carrington addressed the Council and stated that when he thinks of any type of tax
increase that is proposed,he thinks about who would be served by the increase and who would
benefit from no increase.He has had to make these types of decisions in the past as a CEO and
in cooperation with other executives,similar to the Council tonight.He urged them to consider
if the people who are served by no tax increase need service more than the people who will be
benefitted by a tax increase.If a referendum is used,it would delay the project and is cruel to
those people who need these services now.The City ’s roads are about to be hit by winter,as
well as our people. The City needs to be better, do better, and do the right thing.
Evan Miller addressed the Council and stated that anyone who starts a business or obtains a
loan or grant from the City must submit a business plan,and he doesn’t understand why the
Council is going against its own rules and regulations.He also reminded Council that the
number one concern on the survey was streets and roads.
Tony Franklin stated that he moved back to Galesburg seven years ago and was appalled at
people in the community not coming together.He supports a community center,as that was
the promise when the old one was closed.He noted that many churches,including his own,
used the former community center.Furthermore,he supports the tax increase and opposes a
referendum and believes it is a stall tactic.
December 19, 2022 Page 3 of 16
Pastor Franklin stated that we must invest in our youth or the community will die.He explained
that Youth-Adult Partnerships are an important part of the 4-H model and emphasize youth and
adults planning,learning,working and leading together.He added that he will continue praying
for the community.
Reverend Hailey addressed the Council,stating that he has lived in Galesburg for four years and
pastoring for 36 years.He was involved in the Quincy community for 13 years and feels the
need for Galesburg to come together and unify.He noted the former bowling alley is gone,and
the City did nothing to assist or invest in keeping it.Likewise,he stated that not everyone will
be happy, but that this decision is about young people, not about money.
Reverend Jowers wished everyone Merry Christmas and a happy 2023.He recited parts of the
parable of the Good Samaritan from the Bible.He noted that we have changed,as well as
America,and that there are now black men and women on the City Council.He stated that
when saying the Pledge,everyone holds their hand over their heart and pledges one nation,
under one God. He feels that the Council needs to come to the aid of the less fortunate.
David Amor,Ward Seven,addressed the Council in favor of the sales tax increase.He believes
there will be many benefits but also understands that there is not a full plan yet,but is
confident in the Mayor and City Manager that they will work through it in a fiscally responsible
manner.He noted that the budget the City currently has for streets and roads is insufficient,
and that the added revenue makes sense for this essential service.
Mr.Amor stated that he understands that a community center is an ambitious undertaking and
that the community has been reinventing itself since he came to town in 1976.There have
been many successes over the last 50 years and that changes need to continue,such as the new
library.
A resident addressed the Council stating that kids in our community need to feel good and
valued and that nowadays people can move and work from anywhere.He feels that not having
a community center makes the community look bad,especially to people moving back to the
community.He understands that a community center is not a major employer but that there is
more to life than employment.A community center would serve everyone and that we can be a
place where people want to build a life.He added that he trusts the Council to work out the
details of a community center, where people can feel welcome at no cost.
Kristine Plue-Crow addressed the Council in opposition to the sales tax increase and stated that
she emailed the entire Council and Mayor.She feels that the aggressive push for a community
center is purely driven to satisfy campaign promises.The push for the survey done by the City
was used to get an understanding of the priorities of citizens.The highest priority was
improvements to streets and sidewalks by 71 percent of the respondents,and is not being
ignored.She further stated that the majority of residents served did not want to spend more
than $2 million on a community center.
Ms.Plue-Crow added that the people she has talked to have not stated that a community
center would be vital to our community,but added that a 500-person community room will be
December 19, 2022 Page 4 of 16
available at the new Library.She inquired if the City had reached out to social service agencies,
such as the Knox County YMCA to determine if partnerships could be created.She noted the
past visioning sessions the City did back in 2009,which showed the overwhelming need for
infrastructure as well.She closed by stating that the Council represents their constituents and if
the majority of them are against this sales tax increase, who are they listening to?
Lonnie Brown stated that he does not work in the City but lives here.He believes that a
community center is important and that residents need to push for one.He understands that
people get agitated about money but that our city has gone too long without a community
center. Mr. Brown thanked the City Council and hopes residents embrace a community center.
Alex Dismang addressed the Council and stated that Galesburg has a legacy,and that is of young
people who only have one dream,which is to leave this city.He hopes that the Council
considers heavily the impact this decision can have on retaining our residents.The Council can’t
ignore problems and not grow, which will impact the quality of life for the “least of us.”
Jennifer Holmes addressed the Council and said that she had owned a home in Galesburg for 20
years and worked at Knox College and her husband worked at Carl Sandburg College.She is in
favor of a community center, which would be a bold move for our community.
Reverend Vince Marolla addressed the Council and that before he came tonight he decided to
put on his clerical collar since he serves God.He noted that Jesus looked out for the least,the
lonely,sick,imprisoned,widows,etc.He added that he is a white man with privilege and power
but that he cares deeply about the youth, homeless, and the least and lowest in our community.
Jennifer McDorman addressed the Council and stated that a community center would be
helpful for families and people wanting to move to town.She feels that kids need things to do
after school, on the weekends, and holidays.
Julie White stated that she was born here and has been an educator for 30+years.We no
longer have a mall,bowling alley,etc.,and there is nothing for the youth.She can’t imagine not
being progressive and that the City also needs to be aware of the mental health aspect for
multi-generational people that a community center would help as well.She is interested in
volunteering and helping to serve people who have less.
Holly McDorman addressed the Council and stated that she used the former community center
for birthday parties and weddings.She has a family of eight and understands that people don’t
have a lot of money.She has little income but would support a center and believes it ’s the right
decision and therefore willing to sacrifice her money to make the town better.She reminded
the Council that they were elected to make the community a better place.
Willard Gatlin addressed the Council in support of raising revenue for the maintenance of
streets and roads,and added that all this money will not go to a community center.He and his
family are a product of the Carver Center,which brought multi-generations together,formed
bonds,and built a community.He hopes the Council keeps their promise of providing a
community center.Mr.Gatlin stated that he understands people don’t want taxes raised but
December 19, 2022 Page 5 of 16
that it is needed for the roads and community center.He urged the Council to take care of this
now and that the community is counting on them.
Robert Cain stated that the City will be able to use the approximate $300,000 after the last bond
payment and that kicking the can down the road won’t help.He understands why people are
upset about the tax and that everyone needs to think about what the community needs.
A resident (Delores)addressed the Council and stated that the tax increase would be for the
kids of our future.Just like a house,there are unexpected expenses that come up that need to
be handled.Kids and seniors need a place where they can learn from each other and that the
City needs to invest in our children and neighborhoods.
Darla Krejci addressed the Council and stated that she was viewing them and their leadership,
which now shows diversity.She is encouraged by the innovative thinking and decision-making
and looks forward to a community center where all can gather.She hopes the Council uses their
diversity to make a good decision. It is a small tax increase for big results.
Council Member Hix left the meeting at 7:08 p.m.
Jim Jacobs addressed the Council and stated that a referendum letting the people decide will
only get about 15 percent of the voting population and many people don’t have the money to
buy signs.We have a representative democracy and have heard people say that some Council
Members were appointed and noted that this was a perfectly legal process and have as much
authority in their vote as other members.He noted that he has heard people say that the
former community center lost money,which he believes is subterfuge since City services don’t
make money.He stated that at a previous meeting,the Mayor pointed out that Bunker Links
and Lakeside Recreation Center both lost a great deal of money over the years.He supports a
comprehensive community center.
Mr.Jacobs stated that some people feel the Council is moving too fast but noted that the City
has waited since 2013.He noted that the timeframe put out by the City Manager shows the
progress and process.It has also been accompanied by a scientific survey that was taken from
the population.He believes a community center would join people where their differences
would be appreciated.
Council Member Hix returned to the meeting at 7:11 p.m.
Camellia Schwartzman addressed the Council and stated that she is home from college
(Macalester College)and has been following this issue online and that her sister wrote an article
on the community center for the newspaper.She feels that the City should have a community
center to bring people together and noted that St.Paul has five centers.Growing up in
Galesburg she noticed that the only time she felt a community was at the Knox Prairie
Community Kitchen dinners or at the library at school.She feels that the biggest challenge is
being okay with change.She raves about our community to her friends and that the benefits
will pay off.
December 19, 2022 Page 6 of 16
Linda Lewis stated that the Council has a tough job and decision to make and hopes they can
see the benefits in a center. She hopes they think big and approve what we need.
Annette McAllister addressed the Council and stated that she has lived in Galesburg for twenty
years and is in favor of investing in our community and is in favor of the sales tax increase and a
community center.
PASSAGE OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
22-2074
Council Member Cox moved,seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters,to approve a
Resolution placing an advisory question of public policy for an increase in the Home Rule sales
tax from 1.00% to 1.25% on the ballot at the next election in the City of Galesburg.
Council Member Cox stated that the locker rooms and associated restrooms,storage room,
fitness area,wood shop and art area are not included in any rehab estimates and that
additional money will be needed for that work.He also noted that the revenues and income
expected are hypothetical and very speculative and that he would be shocked if $1 million is
received in donations as has been proposed,as well as $250,000 per year in grants and local
partners.He noted that he would not be shocked when the costs come in much higher than
expected.He further stated that if anyone wants to engage with the community,he encourages
them to attend and support the churches,synagogues and service clubs.Lastly,there are
several low-cost options for the youth and suggested the Hawthorne Gym could be opened up
for free. This could be very inexpensive to provide and available five nights per week.
Roll Call #6:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, and Cox, 3.
Nays:Council Members Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, and Davis, 4.
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion failed.
22-1037
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member Wallace,to approve
Ordinance 22-3689 on final reading increasing the Home Rule Sales Tax rate from 1.00%to
1.25%.The tax would become effective July 1,2023.It is estimated that the .25%would
generate approximately $950,000 annually.
Council Member Hix announced that the City Council received a report from the Chamber of
Commerce,which showed 88.3%of the people who are business owners in the community
believe this is a bad time for a tax increase.He further stated that in the City’s survey,economic
development was rated important to our citizens and those who are starting businesses thought
it was difficult to do so.
Council Member Davis pointed out that several have mentioned seeing signs up around the City.
She noted that when she campaigned for City Council she purchased 50 signs,which cost
December 19, 2022 Page 7 of 16
$346.20.Council Member Davis stated that cost would cover this 0.25%sales tax increase on a
person’s next $138,888 of purchases.
Council Member Hix inquired if there was a sunset on this sales tax increase.Mayor
Schwartzman stated that there is not a sunset at this time,but that future Councils could
change that.
Both City Manager Smith and Gloria Osborn,Director of Finance,stated that if the Council plans
to bond, rates will depend on when the City enters the bond market.
Mayor Schwartzman stated that he has been receiving a lot of emails and that he appreciates
them all and is trying to answer everyone one of them.He stated that the entire Council has
declared that if this tax passes it will be for roads and a community center and that they will be
accountable for that action.He understands the questions of uncertainty on the split between
the projects and sought out a bond expert for more information.
He stated that if the City did a 10-year bond for renovating,not operational costs,there would
be $284,000 a year left over from the estimated $950,000 annually from the sales tax,for roads.
This would be in addition to what is already budgeted.He further stated that once the debt is
paid off of the 10-year loan,the next ten years all $950,000 of this tax would go towards
additional roads and infrastructure.
The Mayor stated that if a 20-year bond was sought,for the first twenty years,the community
center would be renovated and $535,000 every year would go towards roads and infrastructure.
He communicated this information to the Council and the City Manager.
He stated that the Council heard loud and clear that the number one issue that the community
is concerned about is the roads.The Council responded more quickly to that concern than he’s
ever seen in his twelve years on the City Council.
Council Member Hix asked why if roads are the number one priority with residents,why are
roads not being addressed first.He feels that the majority of Council Members are doing what
they want to do and not what their constituents want.He believes many aren’t against a
community center,but instead the order in which it is being done.He added that he
understands the vote will be 4/3 in favor of the sales tax increase.
Council Member Cox asked for clarification for what amount would be bonded for a community
center.The Mayor stated that it would be $5.1 million for a community center,although he is
aware that the estimated cost is $7 million.He understands that there are unknowns about the
center,including the use of the auditorium.In his estimation,the gap would be closed by using
the $1.2 million the City has allotted to this project,which would leave a $1 million shortfall.
The Mayor stated that he does believe that if the community commits to this,they will provide
the funding through philanthropic avenues.He noted that they are working with the
Community Foundation to be the recipient of those dollars.
December 19, 2022 Page 8 of 16
The Mayor stated that he recently watched a movie entitled Mully and encouraged everyone to
see it.He hopes to bring it to Galesburg and believes that it is one of the most amazing movies
he’s ever seen.
Roll Call #7:
Ayes:Council Members Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, and Davis, 4.
Nays:Council Members Hix, Dennis, and Cox, 3.
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
The Mayor called for a recess at 7:35 p.m.
The meeting reconvened at 7:47 p.m.
22-1038
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member White,to approve Special
Ordinance 22-617 on final reading approving the 2022 tax levy for the Special Service Area #1
(downtown) in the amount of $141,569.
Roll Call #8:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-2075
Council Member White moved,seconded by Council Member Cox,to approve Resolution 22-64
authorizing the submittal of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)application to the
State of Illinois for replacement of a sanitary sewer main and associated cooperation agreement
with the Galesburg Sanitary District.
Council Member Hix left the meeting at 7:51 p.m.
Marshall Schrader,Galesburg Sanitary District Superintendent,stated that GSD is not an eligible
entity to apply for the grant on its own and must be applied for by the City.It was noted that
the sewer main has outlived its useful life and routine inspections of the sewer by the Galesburg
Sanitary District show the pipe is in desperate condition and on the verge of collapse.
Council Member Hix returned to the meeting at 7:52 p.m.
Roll Call #9:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-2076
December 19, 2022 Page 9 of 16
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member White,to approve
Resolution 22-65 supporting the application to the State of Illinois Department of Commerce
and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)Community Development Block Grant Program housing
rehabilitation grant.
Roll Call #10:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-2077
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member Wallace,to approve the
following Resolutions abating property tax on General Obligation Bonds:
1.Approve Resolution 22-66 to abate property tax on General Obligation Refunding Bond,
Ordinance 2011-3332, Series 2011C (Abatement- $324,260)
2.Approve Resolution 22-67 to abate property tax on General Obligation Bond,Ordinance
2013-3418, Series 2013A (Abatement-$115,680)
3.Approve Resolution 22-68 to abate property tax on General Obligation Refunding Bond,
Ordinance 2015-3484, Series 2015 (Abatement-$623,013)
4.Approve Resolution 22-69 to abate property tax on General Obligation Bond,Ordinance
2016-3508, Series 2016 (Abatement- $642,463)
5.Approve Resolution 22-70 to abate property tax on General Obligation Bond,Ordinance
2017-3540, Series 2017 (Abatement- $714,281)
Roll Call #11:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-2078
Council Member Dennis moved,seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters,to approve
Resolution 22-71 revising the Facade Redevelopment Grant Development Program to separate
the programs that will be $20,000 or more to the City’s program and projects that are less than
$20,000 will be coordinated by the Downtown Council.Some of the other revisions include
lowering the total project cost required to be eligible from $30,000 to $20,000,changing the
maximum amount of incentive to 50%of the project cost or a maximum $40,000 grant,
whichever is less,and requiring property owners to provide at least 10%of their own funds for
the project.
Roll Call #12:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
December 19, 2022 Page 10 of 16
BIDS, PETITIONS, AND COMMUNICATIONS
22-3050
Council Member Dennis moved,seconded by Council Member White,to approve the unit prices
from Municipal Emergency Services,Inc.for the purchase of turnout gear from 2023 through
2027.Chief Hovind noted that sometimes gear can be donated to the GAVC at the high school
or to volunteer departments.
Roll Call #13:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Council Member Hix left the meeting at 8:08 p.m.
Council Member Hix returned to the meeting at 8:10 p.m.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Samuel Carrington stated that this was the first meeting he had attended and participated in,
and felt it was invigorating to share his thoughts,opinions,and make his voice heard.There
were two bold moments in this meeting,one being when a member of this Council stated
before a vote that it had already been decided.As someone who has never spoken at a
meeting before,this comment was heartbreaking.This communicated to everyone who took
the time to speak that their voice didn’t matter.That is not the kind of bold leader that he looks
up to.
Mr.Carrington further stated that when the Mayor said he believes in this community,and that
makes him believe in our Mayor.It makes him feel that anyone who wasn’t listening tonight
doesn’t care or deserve the seat they are sitting in.Anyone who was listening to the people
who needed to be heard, and paying attention, will see more of that after the next election.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS (Agreements, Approvals, Etc.)
Council Member White moved,seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters,to reconsider
agenda item 22-4123.
Roll Call #14:
Ayes:Council Members Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 5.
Nays:Council Members Hix and Dennis, 2.
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-4123
December 19, 2022 Page 11 of 16
Council Member White moved,seconded by Council Member Wallace,to approve the appeal of
the Overall Code Review Commission’s decision to deny a variance of Section 902.28 of the
International Building Code and the International Fire Code regarding fire sprinkler
requirements for the property located 510 North Kellogg Street.It was noted that there are
four exits in the chapel area where residents would be staying.
The Mayor noted that this would be a short-term variance.Meghan Templeton,Salvation Army,
stated that this shelter would be staffed all night,from 6 p.m.to 7 a.m.She did note that the
Housing Authority is allowing people to stay during the day if they have staff present,and they
will plan to operate the same way.
Templeton noted that a new shower will be installed soon and Steve Gugliotta,Community
Development Director,noted that having a shower is not a code requirement.She stated that
there is no sprinkler system at the Hawthorne Gym,the location of the shelter last year.
Templeton added that the Housing Authority has a banned list of their sites and are currently
not allowed to be at the overnight shelter since it is on their property.The Salvation Army has
already encountered three people who are unhoused but on the banned list.She noted that
anyone who entered the shelter at the Salvation Army would have their ID checked and the sex
offender registry would be checked as well.
Council Member Smith-Esters stated that the Salvation Army is also equipped to provide case
management and continued support.She further stated that she would be abstaining from this
vote since she is employed by the Salvation Army.
Council Member Hix inquired about liability concerns.Interim City Attorney Mangieri stated
there could be an allegation of negligence if the Council approved the variance and would need
to verify if the City would be insulated.
Council Member White stated that he voted no on this appeal at the last meeting since there
were two requests that had come before the Planning &Zoning Commission and did not want
to show favoritism. However, he noted that the other entity withdrew their appeal.
Council Member Davis stated that she feels the location is good since it is within walking
distance and that possibly there are additional measures the Salvation Army can take to prevent
fires, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
Roll Call #15:
Ayes:Council Members Dennis, Wallace, White, and Davis, 4.
Nays:Council Members Hix, 1.
Absent:None
Abstain:Council Members Smith-Esters and Cox, 2.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-4125
December 19, 2022 Page 12 of 16
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member White,to approve an
extension of existing printer and office supply agreement with Office Specialists,Inc.through
2027.
Roll Call #16:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-4126
Council Member Wallace moved,seconded by Council Member Dennis,to approve the proposal
submitted by Farnsworth Group in the amount of $78,750 to complete the
engineering /architectural work on the H.T. Custer Park improvement project.
Council Member Wallace would like to see some of the funding go towards improving the field
so that it could be named after Coach Issacson.Public Works Director Wayne Carl noted that
the grant is very specific but asked that information be forwarded to Elizabeth Varner,Parks &
Recreation Director.
Roll Call #17:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-4127
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member Davis,to approve the
revised Personnel Policy for Exempt and Non-Represented personnel.
Roll Call #18:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
22-4128
Council Member White moved,seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters,to approve the
2023 Classification and Salary Schedule for Fire,Police,AFSCME,Exempt,Non-Represented
Hourly, and Temporary Seasonal and Part-Time Hourly employees.
It was noted by the City Manager that there are no other assistant directors in other City
Departments.The Public Works Director/Assistant City Manager position has been posted but
the Deputy Public Works Director may not be needed and therefore has not been advertised.
Roll Call #19:
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
December 19, 2022 Page 13 of 16
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member Davis,to sit as the Town
Board. The motion carried.
TOWN BUSINESS
22-9031
Trustee Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Trustee White,to approve Town bills and warrants to
be drawn in payment of same.
Fund Title Amount
Town Fund $5,120.69
General Assistance Fund $3,767.69
IMRF Fund $1,788.69
Social Security/Medicare Fund
Liability Fund
Audit Fund
Total $10,677.07
Roll Call #20:
Ayes:Trustees Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Council Member Smith-Esters moved,seconded by Council Member Davis,to resume as the
City Council. The motion carried.
CLOSING COMMENTS
Council Member Wallace thanked everyone who was willing to share comments and
commended all who had different opinions.He said it was a tough decision but after meeting
with Director Carl and the City Manager,believes it was the right decision.He recommends an
oversight committee,similar to what the Library had,to begin the framework for the
community center.
Council Member Wallace further stated that he does not like dissension and knows that taxes
can divide people when they really need to come together.He believes we need to give to the
young people and hopes that residents will volunteer in a community center.He appreciates
everyone for attending.
Council Member White stated that he is amazed at all the people who showed up at the
meeting,either for or against the sales tax,which makes our community move forward.He’s
glad people are engaged and that young people attended the meeting.He stated that everyone
should have a voice,and he tried to do what the Fourth Ward wanted.He hopes people will
December 19, 2022 Page 14 of 16
volunteer and donate towards a community center.He also has seen the movie Mully and
would recommend it. Council Member White stated that his new mantra is “we are Galesburg.”
Council Member Smith-Esters added that there are a lot of good things happening in our
community and appreciated all the calls and emails she has received.She recited the definition
of a shepherd,similar to the one who God sent and was greeted by an angel and jumped on
faith.A good shepherd listens,protects,sacrifices,and knows their flock.She hopes that is
what she did and appreciates all who came to the meeting.
Council Member Davis stated that it was exciting to see the community stand up for what they
believe in and that Council did not take this difficult decision lightly.She added that they
listened to people and made the decision to make Galesburg the greatest it can be for
everyone.She hopes everyone has a wonderful holiday season and that it is gentle and
peaceful.
Council Member Cox wished everyone a Merry Christmas,Happy Hanukkah,and Happy New
Year.
Council Member Hix thanked everyone for attending and that he listened and voted the way his
constituents and neighborhoods wanted him to.With over 1,400 petition signatures it is
obvious that people are passionate about this topic.He hopes that all the Council Members
voted the way their constituents wanted, and if not, they need to vote in April.
Mayor Schwartzman stated that this has been the most momentous meeting he’s been a part of
in his twelve years on the Council and that he loves this community.He does not like
contention and wants to see everyone be united.He understands that there will be growing
pains but is certain everyone will get through it.He is glad that the Council also has a diversity
in thought as well.
He stated that he has received amazing emails and comments and appreciates the great new
ways of thinking.He knows there have been some missteps and that they are working through
those as well and hopes it’s known that everyone makes mistakes.He hopes to find a
resolution to bring unity and is a firm believer that once we are through the mud,we can all
collaborate and people will want to come to our community.
The Mayor stated that a community center shows we care about the economy,which is more
than money,and that everyone will be able to contribute to show that we care about each
other.He hopes people will watch the movie Mully and thinks the same can be replicated here
in its own way.
Mayor Schwartzman wished everyone happy holidays and safe travels with the storm
approaching. He hopes everyone can enjoy time with family and friends.
There being no further business,Council Member Dennis,seconded by Council Member White,
to adjourn the regular meeting at 9:01 p.m.
Roll Call #21:
December 19, 2022 Page 15 of 16
Ayes:Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Peter D. Schwartzman, Mayor
Kelli R. Bennewitz, City Clerk
December 19, 2022 Page 16 of 16