HomeMy WebLinkAbout020524 City Council Meeting MinutesGalesburg City Council Regular Meeting
City Council Chambers
55 West Tompkins Street,Galesburg,Illinois
February 5,2024
6:00 p.m.
Called to order by Mayor Peter Schwartzman at 6:00 p.m.
Roll Call #1:Present:Mayor Peter Schwartzman,Council Members Bradley Hix,Wayne Dennis,
Evan Miller,Dwight White,Heather Acerra,Sarah Davis,and Steve Cheesman,8.Also Present:
City Manager Eric Hanson,City Attorney Jason Jording,and City Clerk Kelli Bennewitz.
Mayor Schwartzman declared a quorum present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
A moment of silence was observed in lieu of an invocation.
Proclamation:Knox Proud &Founders Day Proclamation
Presentation:Youth Extra Effort Award presented to Alexandria Clark.
Council Member Miller moved,seconded by Council Member Dennis,to approve the minutes of
the City Council’s regular meeting from January 16,2024,meeting.
Roll Call #2:
Ayes:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Linda Miller addressed the Council and thanked Elizabeth Varner for her leadership as the Parks
&Recreation Department Director.She implored the City to carefully choose the next director
and to look into future leadership for the department.The City has a very vibrant,active,and
expanded recreation opportunities and they need to carefully consider the new leader.
Pam Gaither,Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce director,addressed the Council and
wanted to give an update on their recent membership surveys.In December 2023,the poll
question was “do you think we have adequate,safe and secure parking in downtown
Galesburg?”She stated that out of their 359 active Chamber members,they received 51
responses:66.67%stated yes,29.41%stated no,and 3.92%listed “Other ”.In January 2024,
the poll question was “what kind of project would you like to see on the square in Galesburg?”
Of those same Chamber members,they received 48 responses:54.17%stated they would like
February 5,2024 Page 1 of 8
to see new construction,25%want some sort of recreational facility,4.17%want to see parking,
and 16.67%stated “Other.”
Ms.Gaither also reported that the Chamber of Commerce just got a new website on Friday as
well,and they are hoping that anyone using it finds it easier to navigate.She also noted that
after hearing from their members,they are excited to now offer a discounted health insurance
premium option for small businesses who are members with the Chamber.Information is
available on their website.She also welcomed Eric to the city manager position and is looking
forward to the year ahead.
Ted Hoffman addressed the Council regarding the proposed community garden at the entrance
to our community at East Main Street.One item of the proposal includes growing tunnels,
which are also on Academy Street near Knox College and are currently blown over and causing a
mess.He also asked about available parking,including handicap accessible,and access to the
garden and its proximity to the highway.He stated that he is also concerned about
accountability for the $25,000,the upkeep,and if the property would be taxed since it was in
essence being leased from the City.He asked Council to ask these questions before they
approve the agenda item.
CONSENT AGENDA #2024-02
All matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the City Council and will
be enacted by one motion.
24-2002
Approve Resolution 24-02 adding Bobbi J.Chockley,Interim Finance Director and Information
Systems,and Sharon Heiden,Interim Assistant Finance Director,as authorized bank signers.
24-4004
Approve an updated zoning map.
24-4005
Approve annual Google Workspace renewal from 66degrees in the amount of $213,946.20.
24-4006
Approve the use of the Airport for a remote control fly-in special event,June 15 and 16,2024.
24-4007
Approve a letter of commitment with the Illinois Department of Transportation for replacing the
structure carrying Seminary Street over U.S.34.
24-8001
Approve bills in the amount of $797,362.88 and advance checks in the amount of
$1,035,967.33.
February 5,2024 Page 2 of 8
Council Member Miller moved,seconded by Council Member Davis,to approve Consent
Agenda 2024-02.
Roll Call #3:
Ayes:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried by omnibus vote.
PASSAGE OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
24-1000
Ordinance on first reading amending Section 113.043 (C)of Chapter 113 of the Galesburg
Municipal Code regarding the limitation on the number of Class C-1 liquor licenses.
BIDS,PETITIONS,AND COMMUNICATIONS
24-3002
Council Member Acerra moved,seconded by Council Member Dennis,to approve the bid from
Natare Corporation in the amount of $147,365 for the replacement of outdoor pool liners in the
five-foot lap pool and waterslide catch pool at Lakeside Water Park.
Roll Call #4:
Ayes:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
City Manager Hanson acknowledged Elizabeth Varner for her 33 years of service and is grateful
for her tenure and wished her well in her second retirement.He also updated the Council on
Project 350 and thanked former Fire Chief Tom Simkins and his team.In 2023,they planted 149
trees,and in the last two years have planted over 260 trees.He added that this has been a
great collaboration and wanted to recognize them for an outstanding year 2023 and is looking
forward to a number of exciting projects by this group in 2024.
The City Manager also acknowledged the City’s third OSLAD grant that was received in the
amount of $500,000.He credited the Parks &Recreation Department staff and noted that this
brings the City’s total to over a million dollars in matching grant funds received over the last
three years.
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS (AGREEMENTS,APPROVALS,ETC.)
24-4008
Council Member Davis moved,seconded by Council Member White,to approve a $25,000
Urban Agriculture Grant for the Lipanda Foundation.
February 5,2024 Page 3 of 8
Council Member Acerra stated that she loves the idea of gardening and making gardening more
accessible but that she would be voting against this simply based on the location.She has heard
from constituents that this particular location is on the farthest edge of town away from many
of the residents who would like to be a part of it,many of whom don't have cars.She is aware
that the City has spent approximately $1.2 million to clean up this entrance of town and also
has a concern that it is a dead end street,near the interstate with no place to turn a vehicle
around.It is also her understanding that the location is not on a transit line,although there is a
stop near HyVee.She added that she would be voting against this but it ’s not because she does
not support the idea but simply because of the location.She would like to see the applicant
work with staff to find another location,which would be more accessible,and one that might be
more in the spirit of what they are trying to do in terms of bringing the community together.
City Manager Hanson stated that he was unclear as to why this site was included in the program
other than the City owned the parcel and it was available at that time.
Council Member Dennis also stated that this location is in his Ward and that the City has worked
for four years to get East Main Street cleaned up.He indicated that possibly the City could
provide information for the City’s lot on East Fifth Street,which is approximately four acres,as
well as having adequate parking.He stated that he would be voting against this item for its
location as well.
Council Member Cheesman stated he supports the idea of the garden but does feel there could
be a better location with accessibility.He feels that it is appropriate for the City to go back and
take a look at what is the best possible place that will meet all the criteria to ensure this has the
best chance to be successful.
Council Member Hix was also in agreement with supporting the project in a different location.
Council Member White stated that whatever site is chosen needs to allow for good growing
conditions.He also would like to see rules and regulations and a penalty if they do not take care
of their property or their garden spot.The Mayor noted that thirteen years ago the Council
approved an ordinance for community gardens.
Council Member Davis stated that most of the conversation has centered on the accessibility of
this location,but she wanted to bring to light that there is a lot of other robust information as
part of this application that demonstrates commitment,planning,foresight,leadership,and
education.The applicants have advanced degrees and experience farming and have connected
with the U of I Extension to intentionally learn about growing,farming and gardening in a
different environment in Illinois.She agrees that these issues and questions for this location
have not been addressed and thinks it is a good idea to open up a conversation about other
potential locations.
Roll Call #5:
Ayes:Council Members White and Davis,2.
Nays:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,Acerra,and Cheesman,5.
February 5,2024 Page 4 of 8
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion failed.
24-4009
Council Member Dennis moved,seconded by Council Member Acerra,to approve the
demolition process on the following properties:
1.55 Madison Street
2.367 Lincoln Street
3.286 Fulton Street
4.624 East Losey Street
5.1057 Emery Street
6.1911 East Main Street
Roll Call #6:
Ayes:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
24-4010
Council Member Miller moved,seconded by Council Member Davis,to approve the 2024
Classification and Salary Schedule for Exempt Salaried and Non-Represented Hourly Personnel.
This reflects a 4%COLA increase and reinstates the position of Executive Assistant.
Roll Call #7:
Ayes:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
24-4011
Council Member Miller moved,seconded by Council Member Acerra,to approve an
intergovernmental cooperation agreement with the Sangamon Mass Transit District for
providing transit vehicle repairs outside the capabilities of the City ’s transit shop.
City Manager Hanson explained that the Sangamon Mass Transit District is approved by IDOT for
these types of repairs and the City will be reimbursed accordingly.This agreement would
remain in effect until June 2024 with a new one presented to coincide with the State’s new
fiscal year for future repairs.
Roll Call #8:
Ayes:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
February 5,2024 Page 5 of 8
24-4012
Council Member Dennis moved,seconded by Council Member Davis,to approve an agreement
with Farnsworth Group in an amount not to exceed $21,650 for construction administration
services for Lancaster Park.
Roll Call #9:
Ayes:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Council Member Miller moved,seconded by Council Member Acerra,to sit as the Town Board.
The motion carried.
TOWN BUSINESS
24-9001
Trustee Dennis moved,seconded by Trustee Davis,to approve Town bills and warrants to be
drawn in payment of same.
Fund Title Amount
Town Fund $174.66
General Assistance Fund $3,501.29
IMRF Fund
Social Security/Medicare Fund
Liability Fund $4,094.85
Audit Fund
Total $7,770.80
Roll Call #10:
Ayes:Trustees Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Trustee Dennis moved,seconded by Trustee Davis,to resume as the City Council.The motion
carried.
CLOSING COMMENTS
Council Member Dennis complimented the Street Division and their work on the snow removal.
Council Member Miller thanked Elizabeth Varner for all her work for the Parks &Recreation
Department and her many hours of dedication.
Council Member White also thanked Elizabeth Varner and noted that she put in a lot of late
nights and early mornings and he will miss her.
February 5,2024 Page 6 of 8
He also stated that someday we'll have no black history month or any other ethnic history
month.Everything that Americans do,should be American history and it shouldn't be separated
by your ethnicity,how much money you make,or where you live.He prays that one day
everybody's history will be included but that we're in a nation where they're trying to eliminate
race history and African Americans pride themselves on the things that they ’ve done in
America.
He stated that he was explaining to somebody that his roots are shallow like corn,about two or
three inches deep,because he has no real history since he doesn’t know where some of his
family came from.He noted the movie Hidden Figures,a young African American man who
invented a soap that helps cure melanoma,two female high school students who solve a two
thousand-year-old math problem and encouraged everyone to look up who invented ranch
dressing.
Council Member Acerra stated that the Lipanda Foundation put together a good application for
the community garden and that she does support the spirit of what they want to do and hopes
a better place can be found.She expressed her gratitude to Elizabeth Varner for all she did for
the City.Council Member Acerra also complimented the City workers who put bright light bulbs
in the historic district where she happens to live.She feels that it is much safer and wanted to
express her appreciation for the enhanced safety and brightness of the streets.
Council Member Davis thanked Council Member White for his contributions and for sharing
information about black history that most are not familiar with.She also reminded people to be
safe since the days are getting longer and many people are outside with the nice weather.
Council Member Cheesman also thanked Council Member White for the information on the
great contributions of the African American community and noted the movie Hidden Figures
also.He also wants to see one group that looks to help our world no matter what the situation
and noted the presentation of the Youth Extra Effort Award tonight.He understands that there
are still challenges,but our youth are trying to make this world a better place.He has watched
a number of these kids also excel in their extracurricular activities,whether it be in band,music
or a club.He mentioned Kiarra Kilgore,GHS Girls Basketball,will be the all-time leading scorer in
girls Silver Streaks basketball and that there are so many great young kids that strive for
excellence and we need to continue to acknowledge them and support them.
Council Member Hix also thanked Elizabeth Varner and congratulated her and for all the work
she's done for our city.He also welcomed Don Miles,who will be serving as director in the
interim.
Mayor Schwartzman thanked Elizabeth Varner for her many years of service to our community,
especially her willingness to come out of retirement and delivering an amazing amount of
positive energy.He also announced that Judy Simkins retired this past week and he thanked her
service,particularly her assistance on the OSLAD grant that was received last week.
February 5,2024 Page 7 of 8
He also reiterated the wonderful work that Street Division did to ensure that the roads were
safe over the last month.He asked the community to report any potholes they see to the City
now that the snow is gone.
Lastly,the Mayor stated that by the next meeting,the Super Bowl will have been played,and
recently a press release was sent out regarding safety around the game.He hopes everyone
enjoys it and has a great time,but is responsible during their celebrations.
There being no further business,Council Member Dennis moved,seconded by Council Member
Acerra,to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:02 p.m.
Roll Call #11:
Ayes:Council Members Hix,Dennis,Miller,White,Acerra,Davis,and Cheesman,7.
Nays:None
Absent:None
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Peter D.Mayor Schwartzman,Mayor
Kelli R.Bennewitz,City Clerk
February 5,2024 Page 8 of 8