HomeMy WebLinkAbout051925 City Council Meeting Minutes
Galesburg City Council Regular Meeting
City Council Chambers
55 West Tompkins Street, Galesburg, Illinois
May 19, 2025
6:00 p.m.
Called to order by Mayor Schwartzman at 6:00 p.m.
Roll Call #1: Present: Mayor Peter Schwartzman, Council Members Bradley Hix, Wendel
Hunigan, Evan Miller, Heather Acerra, Greg Saul, and Steve Cheesman, 7. Absent: Council
Member Dwight White, 1. Also Present: City Manager Eric Hanson, City Attorney Dan Alcorn,
and City Clerk Kelli Bennewitz.
Mayor Schwartzman declared a quorum present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Reverend James Hailey, Allen Chapel AME, gave the invocation.
Council Member Miller moved, seconded by Council Member Acerra, to approve the minutes of
the City Council’s regular meeting from May 5, 2025.
Roll Call #2:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Council Member Miller moved, seconded by Council Member Cheesman, to approve the
minutes of the City Council’s executive session meeting from March 17, 2025.
Roll Call #3:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Proclamation: Poppy Days
PUBLIC COMMENT
Reverend Andrew Jowers addressed the Council stating that the meeting tonight has
significantly less attendance than the last one and that he hopes those absent are watching in
order to stay informed. At an earlier Council meeting, he introduced the concept of good
governance, which he feels is particularly relevant at the beginning of the new Council Member
terms. He hopes those serving represent their entire ward, regardless of who voted for them,
which embodies good governance. He stated that good governance involves public institutions
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managing public affairs and resources ethically, free from corruption, upholding the law, and
respecting human rights. Reverend Jowers believes that Galesburg would be a better place if
everyone was united as one community, setting aside their differences. He added that he
recently wrote an article about a nation at war with itself over race. This issue has long
impacted productivity, well-being, and potential, and he is willing to discuss this uncomfortable
subject with anyone.
Reverend James Hailey addressed the Council and thanked the City Clerk for inviting him to
offer the invocation. He acknowledged the devastating tornadoes in Missouri and Kentucky, and
the various weather events across Texas, the East Coast, and the West Coast. He feels that
Galesburg could one day face similar challenges, and in that event, he believes the city’s
response will be to ask everyone for their prayers. He asked everyone to take a moment of
silence to pray for those affected by these events.
Mindy Knapp addressed the Council and stated that Galesburg faces a significant problem
regarding the lack of accessible public restrooms for its homeless population. She believes that
existing organizations are not adequately meeting the growing needs and the housing crisis is
evident in unoccupied buildings, many with squatters. Downtown Galesburg is struggling with
businesses and economic hardship and because of this, the homeless are essentially barred
from using restrooms at public businesses. She expressed concern that the City prioritizes
infrastructure like streets and sidewalks, even though children no longer walk to school, over
providing public restrooms for both visitors and the unhoused population.
Bruce Cook addressed the Council and stated that he had to overcome alcoholism many years
ago and heard the victim mentality and complaints he now hears from homeless individuals. He
stated that while compassion from individuals, organizations, and religious institutions is
valuable, ultimately, it is the responsibility of these individuals to actively work towards
improving their own lives. He noted that he experienced homelessness for over a decade and
advised shedding self-imposed limitations, accepting help without complaint or expectation,
obeying laws, and respecting others' property to earn respect. He does not support a tent city
for the homeless, as it signifies an inefficient handling of the situation.
CONSENT AGENDA #2025-10
All matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the City Council and will
be enacted by one motion.
25-3014
Approve the bid submitted by Brown Excavating, Inc., in the amount of $122,389 for the
demolition and clean-up of six properties.
25-3015
Approve the bid from Mechanical Services of Galesburg, Inc., in the amount of $24,600 for the
demolition and clean-up of the old fire training tower and the paint building at 2233 Veterans
Drive.
May 19, 2025 Page 2 of 9
25-8009
Approve bills in the amount of $3,220,101.90 and advance checks in the amount of
$1,008,394.89.
Council Member Miller moved, seconded by Council Member Saul, to approve Consent Agenda
2025-10.
Roll Call #4:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried by omnibus vote.
PASSAGE OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
25-1006
Council Member Acerra moved, seconded by Council Member Cheesman, to approve Ordinance
25-3751 on final reading amending the zoning from R-3A, Multi-Family to R-1A, Single Family,
for the property commonly known as 3176 Dover Lane.
Roll Call #5:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White,1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
25-1007
Council Member Acerra moved, seconded by Council Member Cheesman, to approve Ordinance
25-3752 on final reading amending the zoning from R-3A, Multi-Family and I, Institutional to
B-3, for the property commonly known as 167 North Kellogg Street.
Roll Call #6:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
25-1008
Council Member Saul moved, seconded by Council Member Hix, to approve Ordinance 25-3753
on final reading amending the zoning from B-1, Neighborhood Business to B-2, General
Business, for the property commonly known as 1120 North Henderson Street.
Roll Call #7:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
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BIDS, PETITIONS, AND COMMUNICATIONS
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
City Manager Hanson announced the upcoming opening of Lakeside Pool for the Memorial Day
weekend, and commended Parks & Recreation Director Miles and his team for their preparation
efforts. He also highlighted the release of the 2024 Annual Report, which reflects discussions
from the Council’s last August strategic planning session. The report is available on the City’s
social media and will be discussed with the Council in more detail in the near future. He noted
that the report showcases staff's excellent work in providing important information to the
public.
Council Member Hunigan asked about the definition of a strategic plan. The City Manager
stated that he believes effective organizations operate with a clear plan where they strategically
identify goals, budget accordingly, and execute tasks efficiently and on schedule. He views the
Council's actions last year as a positive step in this direction and hopes this approach continues.
He feels that this planning should serve as the foundation for daily operations and guide the
community towards its broader objectives.
The City Manager reported that he believes the City's top priorities include capital projects
(infrastructure, streets, sidewalks, parks, sewer, water), facilities, public safety, and parks and
recreation. These priorities support the broader goal of economic development, which includes
job creation, housing, and business growth.
Mayor Schwartzman asked about information on the recent awarding of an EPA Brownsfield
grant. City Manager Hanson announced that the City received a $1.2 million grant from the US
EPA for brownfield remediation. These funds will support site assessments of the former gas
station on the hotel property downtown, as well as other potential sites in the area.
Additionally, a significant amount of funding was awarded for the complete cleanup of the old
Knox Laundry site located on Ferris and Kellogg Streets. The City Manager commended Director
Gugliotta and his team, along with all city staff, for their excellent work in securing state and
federal resources to address local issues.
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS (AGREEMENTS, APPROVALS, ETC.)
25-4040
Council Member Cheesman moved, seconded by Council Member Saul, to waive normal
purchasing policies and approve the quote from Gatekeeper in the amount of $34,517.29 for
the purchase of cameras for the Public Transportation fleet.
Roll Call #8:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
May 19, 2025 Page 4 of 9
25-4041
Council Member Acerra moved, seconded by Council Member Cheesman, to approve the
purchase and installation of a new radiator for a CAT 3508 generator at the Oquawka Water
Treatment Plant in an amount not to exceed $39,218.94.
Roll Call #9:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
25-4042
Council Member Saul moved, seconded by Council Member Acerra, to approve a proposal from
Aviaway Bird Control Services in the amount of $54,000 for falconry services in the downtown
area.
City Manager Hanson explained the falcons, being predator birds, are controlled by handlers to
create flight patterns that drive the crows away from nesting areas. He noted he has seen this
method work effectively in another community. He also explained that the City is trying to seek
non-disruptive solutions that avoid weapons, loud noises, and other problematic distractions,
given the numerous complaints received by both staff and the City Council. If successful, this
method could potentially be expanded to other areas in the future. He also believes that the
core idea is that the falcons would fly several times daily to deter crows and other birds from
nesting downtown.
He also explained that the intent was to try this method for a year to see if it worked, not to
commit the City into any long term arrangement. If it is found to be effective and the City wants
to expand services, other partners could be explored, such as the County and the Downtown
Council.
Roll Call #10:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Council Member Miller moved, seconded by Council Member Saul, to sit as the Town Board.
The motion carried.
TOWN BUSINESS
25-9012
Trustee Cheesman moved, seconded by Trustee Acerra, to approve Town bills and warrants to
be drawn in payment of same.
Fund Title Amount
May 19, 2025 Page 5 of 9
Town Fund $16,239.40
General Assistance Fund $3,636.58
IMRF Fund
Social Security/Medicare Fund
Liability Fund
Audit Fund
Total $19,875.98
Roll Call #11:
Ayes: Trustees Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Trustee White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
25-9013
Trustee Acerra moved, seconded by Trustee Cheesman, to approve an agreement for services
with Property Evaluation and Tax Advisors, LLC, in the amount of $19,300 for analyzing
commercial properties in the Township.
Township Assessor Laura Williams stated that this agreement would be specifically for
reassessing 39 multifamily apartment buildings. This partnership also offers the potential for
broader reassessment efforts if needed. The company's services include fieldwork, inspections,
and creating sketches, a feature that will eventually benefit the County by providing visual and
data information on their website. PETA will also utilize comparable sales data, accessed
through CoStar, a resource too costly for the Township to acquire independently. She also noted
that Quincy has successfully employed PETA’s services for commercial reassessments. She
believes that this collaboration provides the Township with valuable resources and expertise in
property reassessment.
Roll Call #12:
Ayes: Trustees Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Trustee White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Trustee Miller moved, seconded by Trustee Acerra, to resume as the City Council. The motion
carried.
CLOSING COMMENTS
Council Member Cheesman highlighted the significant contributions of various organizations
and groups within the City. He attended the Galesburg High School awards night and was
impressed by the numerous scholarships provided by individuals, groups, and businesses, which
emphasized their role in supporting youth. He expressed gratitude for these efforts, specifically
mentioning the Hispanic Latino resource group's scholarship program in memory of community
members. He also commended the City's effectiveness in securing grants, which benefit various
May 19, 2025 Page 6 of 9
initiatives, as demonstrated by recent and ongoing projects. He noted that the Gale Scholars
recently had a skating party at Skate Palace and encouraged residents to support local
businesses to strengthen the community.
Council Member Cheesman also stressed the importance of spring clean-up efforts and
maintaining properties, urging all residents, including rental property owners, to help keep the
City clean and appealing for both residents and visitors.
Council Member Hix expressed his appreciation for City staff and directors, specifically
mentioning the quick IT support he recently needed. He also thanked Director Miles and his
staff for their work at Lincoln Park during the Fishing Derby, and Director Gugliotta's staff for
addressing constituent concerns about lawns and overgrowth. He acknowledged his
communication with Director Gavin on various issues as well and commended the
professionalism and responsiveness of all staff and directors in addressing concerns.
Council Member Hunigan acknowledged Council Member Cheesman's excellent work with the
Gale Scholars Program and noted his recent interview on WGIL where he reported that the
students impressively maintain an average 3.7 GPA. Council Member Hunigan noted that he is
also involved with the Support Group of African American Affairs and mentioned their
upcoming recognition of youth. They also have a Galesburg High School scholarship recipient
with a 4.0 GPA.
Council Member Miller commended Public Works Director Gavin and the Street Division for
their prompt response in cleaning up a significant amount of clay and gravel dumped by a
contractor on Michigan and Grand Avenue. He noted that staff stayed late to address the issue
and he helped them ensure the street was safe. He thanked all City staff, including Streets,
Parks, Police, and Fire Departments, as well as those working at City Hall. He believes staff
consistently does exceptional jobs and deserves more recognition for their often unseen,
day-to-day efforts.
Council Member Acerra also expressed appreciation for City staff, noting the progress of various
initiatives and the great state of the parks. She highlighted the significant contributions of
volunteers across the community, including those supporting the Parks & Recreation
Department with projects such as tree planting. She recognized the involvement of parents and
leaders in youth organizations such as Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, emphasizing that the
community benefits from their efforts. Council Member Acerra acknowledged the concern
expressed earlier regarding homelessness in the community and believes in the good intentions
of area shelters and facilities. She mentioned her visit to The Lighthouse outreach center,
echoing the sentiment of the increasing number of community members helping to make a
positive difference.
Council Member Saul expressed gratitude to the School District, sharing a personal experience
of his autistic nephew's excitement at graduation and the importance of inclusion and the joy
on the students' faces when receiving their diplomas. He also thanked the attendees for Poppy
Days and shared a story about his father, Ken Saul, a World War II veteran who captured
May 19, 2025 Page 7 of 9
Hermann Göring's headquarters in Germany. The flag from that headquarters, donated by his
mother, is now at the VFW. He urged everyone to remember the sacrifices of those who gave
their lives for freedom and to recognize that Memorial Day is a day of remembrance, not just a
day off.
Mayor Schwartzman expressed his appreciation for Council Member Saul's sentiments
regarding his father and shared that he wears a poppy to honor his two grandfathers who
fought and were injured in World War I and World War II. He emphasized the importance of
remembering the sacrifices made by veterans and educating young people about this history.
He highlighted the VFW Museum, suggesting that young people visit, such as the Gale scholars.
He also reflected on his daughter's recent college graduation, noting that she attended
Galesburg's public schools along with many of her friends who also started their education in
the City and have excelled, and acknowledged the excellent school system and the dedicated
teachers. He reminded citizens that with school ending soon, everyone needs to be extra
cautious of young people who will be out and about on bikes, skateboards, and crossing streets.
Council Member Cheesman recognized Mrs. Alice Johnson, a 95-year-old representative of the
Galesburg Legion Auxiliary, for her many years of dedication to Poppy Days. He noted that Mrs.
Johnson exemplifies the significant contributions that individuals like her have made to the
Legion and the community.
Council Member Cheesman moved, seconded by Council Member Acerra, to adjourn into
executive session at 6:57 p.m. for the purposes of discussing approval of the executive session
meeting for May 5, 2025, 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21) and Personnel (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(3).
Roll Call #13:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
During the Executive Session, Council Member Hix moved, seconded by Council Member
Acerra, to adjourn the Executive Session at 8:18 p.m.
Roll Call #14:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
There being no further business, Council Member Hix moved, seconded by Council Member
Cheesman, to adjourn the regular meeting at 8:19 p.m.
Roll Call #15:
Ayes: Council Members Hix, Hunigan, Miller, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member White, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
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Peter D. Mayor Schwartzman, Mayor
Kelli R. Bennewitz, City Clerk
May 19, 2025 Page 9 of 9