HomeMy WebLinkAbout100625 City Council Meeting Minutes
Galesburg City Council Regular Meeting
City Council Chambers
55 West Tompkins Street, Galesburg, Illinois
October 6, 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 Wendel Hunigan, Dwight
White, Heather Acerra, Greg Saul, and Steve Cheesman, 6. Absent: Council Member Evan
Miller, 1. City Manager Eric Hanson, City Attorney Dan Alcorn, and City Clerk Kelli Bennewitz.
Vacant: Council Member, Ward 1, following the resignation of Council Member Bradley Hix,
effective August 31, 2025.
Mayor Schwartzman declared a quorum present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
A moment of silence was observed in lieu of an invocation.
Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Saul, to approve the minutes of
the City Council’s regular meeting from September 16, 2025.
Roll Call #2:
Ayes: Council Members Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 5.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
City Clerk Kelli Bennewitz gave the oath of office to Angelica Mangieri, Ward 1 Council Member.
Roll Call #3: Present: Mayor Peter Schwartzman, Council Members Angelica Mangieri, Wendel
Hunigan, Dwight White, Heather Acerra, Greg Saul, and Steve Cheesman, 7. Absent: Council
Member Evan Miller, 1.
Presentation: Carl Sandburg College, Galesburg Promise Program
PUBLIC COMMENT
Dylan Sage addressed the Council regarding the property at 345-363 East South Street,
referencing a recent article about its planned demolition. He questioned the necessity of
demolition, proposing alternative uses for the site such as for the GAVC building trades classes
or a shelter for the unhoused. He noted that he was simply seeking clarification on the
decision-making process for property and whether it was the only option until a long-term plan
for the site was established.
October 6, 2025 Page 1 of 9
Bruce Cook addressed the Council expressing his concern about the current state of the world,
highlighting issues like national division and global unrest, and questioned the past controversy
on topics such as pickleball in light of these larger problems. He stated that there is a societal
trend where individuals seem to actively seek reasons to be offended, and those who express
disagreement are often accused of hate speech. He added that the environment we are in now
discourages people from speaking their minds for fear of misrepresentation, and believes that
people hear only what they want to hear, becoming angry or dismissive of anything to the
contrary.
Mr. Cook stated that his intention is never to offend, but he would not refrain from speaking
simply because someone might choose to be offended. He feels that being offended is a choice
and that his goal is not to gain agreement or popularity, but to stimulate thought and promote
discussion and debate. He gave an example of being able to deem an organization an
“abomination” without malice towards its members. He hoped individuals examined
themselves and were able to control one's own hate that leads to perpetual offense.
Reverend Andrew Jowers addressed the Council and stated that he is again a full-time student
and former adjunct faculty member at Carl Sandburg College. He expressed his support for the
College, and feels they are a valuable service to Galesburg, particularly through a mentoring
class he conducts for primary-aged children. He also congratulated the City, specifically
acknowledging Council Members Saul, Mangieri, and Hunigan, deeming this period a “reset” for
the community. He emphasized the struggles faced by many Galesburg residents, including the
homeless, families, and young children, advocating for proactive intervention.
Reverend Jowers noted that his primary recommendation for the City was for a comprehensive
community center for all ages, which he believes would significantly help underserved children.
He referenced an opinion piece he recently wrote that detailed the rationale for this center and
criticized the Council's decision to allocate nearly a million dollars to the YMCA, arguing that
true understanding of poverty comes from personal experience. He encouraged the Council to
read his opinion piece and contact him for further discussion.
CONSENT AGENDA #2025-19
All matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the City Council and will
be enacted by one motion.
25-2027
Approve Resolution 25-24 authorizing the temporary closure of Main Street for the 2025 Treat
Street event on October 25, 2025.
25-2028
Approve Resolution 25-25 ceding the City ’s 2025 private activity bonding authority to the Quad
Cities Regional Economic Development Authority (QCREDA).
October 6, 2025 Page 2 of 9
25-2029
Approve an MFT Resolution authorizing the City ’s share of construction costs for the East Main
Street Preliminary engineering in the amount of $94,406.
25-4058
Approve a five-year extension of the banking services contract with CBI Bank & Trust.
25-8018
Approve bills in the amount of $1,129,486.78 and advance checks in the amount of
$1,250,103.24.
Council Member Acerra moved, seconded by Council Member Cheesman, to approve Consent
Agenda 2025-19.
Roll Call #4:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried by omnibus vote.
PASSAGE OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
25-2030
Council Member Acerra moved, seconded by Council Member Saul, to approve Resolution
25-26 authorizing the purchase of 345-363 East South Street in the amount of $150,000.
Roll Call #5:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
City Manager Hanson highlighted that this project is integral to a broader, long-term plan, and
noted that the City has been pursuing the acquisition of this specific block for over 20 years.
The City already possesses a significant portion of the block, with only a few remaining parcels,
and this property is strategically located adjacent to the depot. This property also lies along the
corridor where the City is trying to improve the South Street underpass. The City Manager also
reminded the Council that this location was also previously considered for a transit transfer
station as part of the Transit Study.
BIDS, PETITIONS, AND COMMUNICATIONS
25-3041
Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Acerra, to approve the bid
submitted by LuAva, Inc. in the amount of $55,000 to complete installation and resurfacing of
selected paths at Bunker Links.
Roll Call #6:
October 6, 2025 Page 3 of 9
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Mayor Schwartzman inquired about the percentage of golf holes accessible by paved surfaces.
Parks & Recreation Director Don Miles reported progress, noting that while not every hole has a
complete path, it remains a future goal. Council Member Cheesman added that the City
currently has paved paths on three par-three holes, and this approval would complete the
fourth. This would leave 14 other holes with minimal coverage. Cart paths significantly reduce
wear and tear on golf carts and the course itself, making the course playable even after rain.
25-3042
Council Member Saul moved, seconded by Council Member White, to approve the bid
submitted by Truck Centers, Inc., in the amount of $88,954 for the purchase of a new 2026
Freightliner 108SD plus cab/chassis to be utilized by the Park Division.
Roll Call #7:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
A. Galesburg 2025 Trick or Treat Hours, Friday, October 31st, 5-8 p.m.
B. The Galesburg Promise line item, found on page 80 of the budget, shows an average of
over $300,000 annually over the past four to five years. The $2.7 million figure CSC
presented looks to be accurate when considering the total funds.
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS (AGREEMENTS, APPROVALS, ETC.)
25-4059
Council Member Acerra moved, seconded by Council Member Saul, to approve a three-year
maintenance agreement with Altorfer Power Systems in the amount of $15,960 per year for
emergency standby generators.
Roll Call #8:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
25-4060
Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Cheesman, to approve a joint
funding agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation for preliminary engineering
October 6, 2025 Page 4 of 9
on East Main Street from Grand Avenue to Walnut Street. The City’s share of $94,406 will be
funded through the Motor Fuel Tax Fund.
Council Member Hunigan expressed gratitude for this project in his Ward and inquired about a
timeline. The City Manager stated that the project is estimated to take approximately one year,
potentially longer, adding that the City is actively pursuing additional state and federal support
for the project, noting that a grant application has already been submitted.
Council Member Cheesman acknowledged the Council's desire for immediate action on
infrastructure, particularly roads and sidewalks. He stated that while progress may not be as fast
as desired, it remains a priority. He also reminded citizens that the City does not control
maintenance on certain sections of Main Street, Henderson Street, or Grand Avenue, which
everyone understands are in need of repair. He assured the public that the Administration is
collaborating with the State on these matters, but that the City is committed to continuously
work on streets and sidewalks for the benefit of the community.
Roll Call #9:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
25-4061
Council Member Cheesman moved, seconded by Council Member Acerra, to approve a grant
agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation for the Airport entrance road and
parking lot project. The City ’s share of $43,500 or 10% will be funded through the Utility Tax
Fund.
Roll Call #10:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
25-4062
Council Member Acerra moved, seconded by Council Member White, to approve a first
amendment to the revolving loan with Jupiter Machine Tool, Inc. After the extension period, the
loan balance due will be $596,505.05.
Roll Call #11:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
October 6, 2025 Page 5 of 9
25-4063
Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Mangieri, to approve a workers’
compensation settlement agreement with Mike Ingles in the amount of $21,826.80.
Roll Call #12:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Council Member Saul moved, seconded by Council Member Cheesman, to sit as the Town
Board. The motion carried.
TOWN BUSINESS
25-9023
Trustee Cheesman moved, seconded by Trustee Acerra, to approve Town bills and warrants to
be drawn in payment of same.
Fund Title Amount
Town Fund $3,231.65
General Assistance Fund $24,209.04
IMRF Fund $4,028.77
Social Security/Medicare Fund
Liability Fund
Audit Fund
Total $31,469.46
Roll Call #13:
Ayes: Trustees Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
Absent: Trustee Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Trustee White moved, seconded by Trustee Saul, to resume as the City Council. The motion
carried.
CLOSING COMMENTS
Council Member Cheesman extended a welcome to Council Member Mangieri and knows she
will excel in this new role. He also thanked Mayor Schwartzman for reminding the public about
the protocol during public comments: comments are heard, but immediate responses are not
given at that time. This is not due to disinterest, but rather to allow the public their dedicated
time to speak. If needed, follow-up conversations can occur privately or at a later time. He also
thanked the City Manager, Finance Director O’Hern, and all staff involved in the recent budget
work session. He noted that despite the complexity of budget details, the presentation was
clear and well-explained, and numerous projects were outlined. He highlighted the City's
commitment to maintaining the tax rate at its 2008 level, emphasizing that Council is actively
October 6, 2025 Page 6 of 9
avoiding tax increases for its citizens, but acknowledged that other taxing bodies may influence
the overall rate. He noted that several of tonight ’s initiatives will greatly benefit the City and
expressed his anticipation for continued progress.
Council Member Mangieri thanked everyone for the welcome, acknowledging that the learning
curve has been eased by everyone's helpfulness. She found the budget work session last week
incredibly informative, especially for a first-time attendee.
Council Member Hunigan stated that the Cooke School Park project is nearing completion, and
he expressed his gratitude to the many volunteers, especially former Fire Chief Tom Simkins,
who helped construct a fence around the new playground equipment. There was an
overwhelming turnout of volunteers to help and he added that it was wonderful to see Parks &
Recreation Department employees also contributing to the effort. He feels this truly exemplifies
Galesburg at its best and that we are incredibly fortunate to have volunteers who consistently
go above and beyond with their kindness, generosity, and skills. He also congratulated Gayla
Pacheco for her vision and leadership on this project.
Council Member Hunigan also stated that the constituents of Mulberry Street in Ward 2 wanted
to thank the City, including members of the City Council, City Manager, the Police Department,
several City staff members, and compliance officers, for their decisive action in closing and
condemning a problematic house. For the past two years, the house has been a source of
homelessness, drug overdoses, assaults, regular disturbances of the peace, and petty theft from
the neighborhood. His neighbors on Mulberry Street are grateful for the City's strong response.
Council Member White thanked Carl Sandburg College for their presentation. He was also happy
to see so many young people at the Council meeting, actively involved in the community. He
noted that October 6th marks a special day for Fannie Lou Hamer, who was born October 6,
1917, and was renowned for her unwavering dedication as a civil rights activist. She was a
leading figure in the fight for black voting rights in Mississippi, and her powerful testimony at
the 1964 Democratic National Convention exposed the violent suppression of voting rights and
forced sterilization. She became a pivotal figure in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating
Committee and also helped establish the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, a biracial
organization that challenged the all-white, segregated Mississippi delegation at the 1964 DNC.
Council Member White stated that Ms. Hamer ’s testimony was so powerful that President
Johnson called a television press conference to divert media attention away from her address.
Instead, the national news media picked up her story and broadcast it widely, ensuring
everyone witnessed her powerful message.
Council Member White thanked Mr. Cook for his words and agreed that we are currently facing
turmoil and challenging situations in our country. As a veteran, he never imagined he would see
military personnel on American streets, arresting citizens without due process.
Council Member Acerra highlighted several positive developments, and noted her appreciation
for Carl Sandburg College's presentation and looking forward to future updates. She noted a
resurgence in the downtown area, particularly with new businesses like Dante and Dory's Pet
October 6, 2025 Page 7 of 9
Emporium. She also enjoyed the “Resurrection — A Journey Tribute” performance at the
Orpheum, emphasizing the quality of acts and the positive atmosphere these events create
downtown. She also mentioned Eliana Juarez, a GHS soccer player named to the Western Big
Six All-Conference team. Council Member Acerra announced that she has plans for a significant
reunion at Knox College this coming weekend, and local historian, Rex Cherrington, will host a
tour on Saturday afternoon exploring the relationship between Knox College and Lombard
College.
Council Member Saul expressed his appreciation for the presentation from Carl Sandburg
College, specifically on financial aid, noting the confusion many face when starting their college
careers. He also commended Police Chief Legate for participating in “Coffee with a Cop,”
emphasizing the importance of positive interactions between first responders and children. He
suggested that schools arrange visits to hospitals to familiarize children with doctors and nurses
in order to alleviate fear. He also stated that he had an enjoyable tour of the scenic drive this
past weekend, noting the large turnout and hoping for continued success for vendors. He also
shared positive feedback from his recent Illinois Municipal League Conference, highlighting the
networking opportunities with other community leaders.
Mayor Schwartzman thanked the Knox students for attending, stressing their role as part of the
community and encouraging their continued involvement in Galesburg. He noted the KCAP
Housing Subcommittee, which recently held its third meeting, stating that housing in Galesburg
is KCAP's top priority. He plans to share his thoughts on the meeting with the Council by the
end of the week and expressed optimism that the diverse group involved in the subcommittee
will make significant progress by year-end.
The Mayor also praised the strong spirit of volunteerism in Galesburg, citing two recent events
he participated in. The first was Project 600, which recently planted over 20 trees in Ward 5
with over 20 volunteers. Another tree-planting event is scheduled for the upcoming weekend,
and interested individuals are invited to participate. Additionally, he mentioned an event at
Trinity Lutheran Church where over 80 volunteers packed over 12,000 nutritional bags for
children in Lesotho as part of the Lesotho Nutritional Initiative. He noted that 25 of these
volunteers were Knox College baseball players who dedicated three hours of their Sunday to
helping. This initiative, started by a Knox College student, has been conducted in Galesburg
multiple times, and those interested in future involvement can join an email list.
Mayor Schwartzman praised Carl Sandburg College as one of Galesburg's two amazing and
thriving colleges and expressed gratitude for the City's decade-long commitment to supporting
CSC, which provides local young people and older individuals access to education, preparing
them for good-paying jobs growing in the community.
There being no further business, Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member
Acerra, to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:25 p.m.
Roll Call #14:
Ayes: Council Members Mangieri, Hunigan, White, Acerra, Saul, and Cheesman, 6.
Nays: None
October 6, 2025 Page 8 of 9
Absent: Council Member Miller, 1.
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Peter D. Mayor Schwartzman, Mayor
Kelli R. Bennewitz, City Clerk
October 6, 2025 Page 9 of 9