Hello, and welcome to Peoria City Hall, Council Chambers. I got here a little late, so the council is already in session. Here’s the agenda for this evening:

PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS – TOWN OF THE CITY OF PEORIA

ITEM NO. 1 Communication from the Town Supervisor Requesting Approval of an INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT Between the City of Peoria and the Town of the City of Peoria to LEASE SPACE for a Portion of 205 S.W. ADAMS STREET.

PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS – CITY OF PEORIA

ITEM NO. 1 CONSIDERATION OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS BY OMNIBUS VOTE, for the City of Peoria, with Recommendations as Outlined:

A. NOTICE of LAWSUIT Filed on Behalf of WILLIAM T. REDD, JR. Regarding a Complaint Against Freddie E. Wright, Sr. and the City of Peoria Pertaining to Personal Injuries from an Accident on February 8, 2010, Involving a City Snowplow, with Recommendation to Receive for Information and Refer to the Legal Department.

B. TAG DAY REQUEST from the SOUTH-WEST KIWANIS CLUB OF PEORIA to Hold Their ANNUAL PEANUT DAY FUNDRAISER to Help Peoria Area Children on SEPTEMBER 28, 29, and 30, 2011. (Dates are Open.)

C. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Acceptance of the ILLINOIS STATE BID of PRAIRIE ARCHWAY INTERNATIONAL in Normal, Illinois, in an Amount Not to Exceed $391,173.00, for the PURCHASE of THREE (3) DUMP TRUCKS (Fully Equipped with Dump Box, Snow Plow, and Salt Spreader).

D. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Approval for the PURCHASE of SEVEN (7) CHEVY IMPALA POLICE VEHICLES for Routine Fleet Replacement, in the Amount of $142,682.00, from GREEN CHEVROLET and DODGE in Springfield, Illinois, One (1) CHEVY TAHOE from MILES CHEVROLET, INC., in Decatur, Illinois, in the Amount of $32,768.00, and One (1) Additional CHEVY TAHOE from MILES CHEVROLET, INC., in the Amount of $32,768.00 as a K-9 Vehicle in SID, all Purchased Through the State of Illinois Contract Bid Process.

E. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management Requesting Approval of the ALLOCATION of a FEDERAL HUD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE GRANT for CRITICAL PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS, in the Amount of $120,000.00, in the GLEN OAK SCHOOL NEIGHBORHOOD IMPACT ZONE and $123,500.00 in the HARRISON SCHOOL NEIGHBORHOOD IMPACT ZONE.

F. Communication from the Interim City Manager Requesting Approval to RENEW the BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LOAN for LAGRON-MILLER for FIVE YEARS and to Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Necessary Documents.

G. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Approval of an ADDENDUM AGREEMENT, Amending Agreement No. 10-133B, with the ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION for the Funding of the CONSTRUCTION of ORANGE PRAIRIE ROAD from AMERICAN PRAIRIE ROAD to ALTA ROAD.

H. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Corporation Counsel Requesting Approval of an INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT with the TOWN OF THE CITY OF PEORIA Regarding LEASE of 205 S.W. ADAMS STREET, and to Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Document.

I. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Approval of VARIOUS CONTRACTS for CITY TREE SERVICES, MOWING SERVICE for CITY LOTS and RIGHTS-OF-WAY and BOULEVARDS, and Adjustment of the Scope of Work in the RIVERFRONT MAINTENANCE CONTRACT.

J. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Fire Chief Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Amending CHAPTER 11 of the Code of the City of Peoria Pertaining to CERTAIN FEES Including Non-Resident Vehicle Fires, Non-Resident Vehicle Extrication, Non-Emergency Boat Towing, Non-Resident Boat Rescue, Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems, Commercial Fire Suppression Hood System Permits, Fire Alarm and Detection Systems, and Related Equipment as Outlined.

K. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Abating the Tax Heretofore Levied to Pay Principal of and Interest on GENERAL OBLIGATION CORPORATE PURPOSE BONDS, of the City of Peoria, 1998 SERIES C, 2002 SERIES A & B, 2003 SERIES A, 2004 SERIES B & C, 2005 SERIES A & B, 2007 SERIES A, 2009 SERIES A, AND 2010 SERIES A, B, C & D.

L. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Abating the Tax Heretofore Levied to Pay SPECIAL SERVICE AREA TAXES on the RIVERWEST NEIGHBORHOOD (Formerly the Colonel John Warner Homes Development).

M. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Corporation Counsel Recommending Adoption of an ORDINANCE Amending CHAPTER 31, SCHEDULE A, PROHIBITING the USE of GROUNDWATER as a POTABLE WATER SUPPLY by the Installation or Use of Potable Water Supply Wells or by Any Other Method.

N. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Amending the City of Peoria Budget for Fiscal Year 2011 Relating to the STATE and LOCAL AUTO THEFT ENFORCEMENT (S.L.A.T.E.) PROGRAM FUNDS, in the Amount of $400,784.00.

O. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Amending the City of Peoria Budget for Fiscal Year 2011 Relating to POLICE TOBACCO ENFORCEMENT GRANT, in the Amount of $13,860.00.

P. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Amending the City of Peoria Budget for Fiscal Year 2011 Relating to the DEPARTMENT of HOUSING and URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD) ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES (EDI) SPECIAL PROJECT GRANT, in the Amount of $243,500.00.

Q. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Amending the City of Peoria Budget for Fiscal Year 2011 Relating to the OUTSTANDING ENCUMBRANCES as of DECEMBER 31, 2010, in the Amount of $5,648,616.00.

R. Communication from the Interim City Manager with Request to Receive and File the MINUTES and Supporting Documents from the JOINT REVIEW BOARD (JRB) MEETING Held on JANUARY 31, 2011, Regarding the Proposed EAST VILLAGE GROWTH CELL (EVGC) TIF REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA ELGIBILITY.

S. Communication from the Interim City Manager and Corporation Counsel Requesting Approval of the DATES for SCHEDULED EVENTS Sponsored by PEORIA AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS, INC. (P.A.C.E.), Subject to Their Filing the Necessary Permits and Approval as Required by the City Code, as Follows: Steamboat Festival at Riverfront Festival Park on June 16 through 18, 2011; Taste of Peoria at Riverfront Festival Park on August 10, 2011, (Rain Date – August 11, 2011); and Labor Day Picnic at Riverfront Festival Park on September 5, 2011.

T. APPOINTMENT by Mayor Jim Ardis to the TRAFFIC COMMISSION, with Request to Concur:

Michael Vespa (Voting) – Term Expires 6/30/2012

U. REPORT of the CITY TREASURER, PATRICK A. NICHTING, for the MONTH of DECEMBER 2010, with Request to Receive and File.

Irving removed items (C) and (G). Turner removed items (I) and (J). Sandberg removed item (R). All other items on the consent agenda passed unanimously.

• Item C — The council members do not trust the information in the council communication from the Public Works department. I’m not a mechanic, but apparently some of the information betrayed either poor communication skills or lack of knowledge as to how an engine works. To make matters worse, the request is coming with time urgency because they’re trying to buy it under a state contract; if the item is deferred, they’ll lose out on this price for getting it through the state. Ironically, the reason it wasn’t brought forward at the last meeting, according to the City Manager, was so staff could provide “more information” to the council. The council is willing to forgo the state bid price in order to get more accurate information and emphasize to staff the need to bring things to the council in a timely basis and not count on it being passed because they brought it at the last minute. Montelongo moves to approve; seconded by Turner. Failed 4-6 (Montelongo, Spain, Gulley, Turner voting in favor). Spain/Irving move to defer; motion passes unanimously.
• Item G — Irving moves for deferral, seconded by Sandberg; passes unanimously.
• Item I — Is the company willing to pay prevailing wage? Answer from David Barber (Public Works Director): Yes, “when appropriate,” whatever that means. Motion to approve by Turner, seconded by Van Auken. Van Auken thinks this is “too good to be true” — how can someone from Minneapolis come in and do this job cheaper than local contractors and follow all the rules? Sandberg asks Barber if we verify the job has been done or if we take the contractor at his word. Answer: Yes, we monitor the contracts and verify the work is done before invoices are processed for payment. Motion passes unanimously.
• Item J — Turner asks if we’re collecting existing fees. Answer from Fire Chief Tomblin: Yes. He explains the process of collecting those fees. Turner/Van Auken moves to approve. Sandberg objects to fee increases 5, 6, and 7. He says these fee increases are hard on small businesses. He believes the fees are excessive, especially considering these are all required fire suppression mechanisms, and the fees are annual. Montelongo agrees with Sandberg. Sandberg moves to divide the question, seconded by Montelongo; passes unanimously. Sandberg moves to approve section 1, seconded by Montelongo; passes unanimously. Van Auken moves to approve section 2, seconded by Spain; motion fails 5-5 (Ardis, Sandberg, Montelongo, Spears, Riggenbach voting no).
• Item R — Sandberg criticizes the staff for not catching the fact that the public member of the Joint Review Board did not meet the legal requirements; also says the process is being rushed. Riggenbach defends staff, saying everyone makes mistakes. He also says they’re not rushing the process. “The public is having its chance to be heard,” he said. Riggenbach/Gulley move to approve; passes 9-1 (Sandberg).

ITEM NO. 2 Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Approval of the Following Regarding the PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: (Amends Item No. 06-347)

A. AMENDMENT #3 to PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING SERVICES AGREEMENT with CLARK DIETZ, INC. to DIVIDE the CONSTRUCTION PLANS into Two Construction Sections, in an Amount Not to Exceed of $42,000.00 (for a New Total Not to Exceed contract Amount of $351,315.00);

B. SUPPLEMENTAL MFT RESOLUTION, in the Amount of $470,500.00, for the PROJECT COSTS Including PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING, RIGHT OF WAY ACQUISITION COSTS and IN-HOUSE ENGINEERING COSTS; and

C. APPROVAL of a Not to Exceed Amount of $228,500.00 for RIGHT OF WAY VALUATIONS and ACQUISITION COSTS.

• Riggenbach moves to approve item A; seconded by Turner; motion passes unanimously. No discussion.
• Riggenbach/Van Auken move to approve item B. Passes uninmously. Little discussion.
• Riggenbach/Turner move to approve item C. Sandberg asks if this will be a blank check to purchase property, or if any items over $10,000 have to come before the Council. Answer from Barber: blank check, unless the Council directs otherwise. Friendly amendment accepted requiring items over $10,000 to come before the Council for approval. Motion passes unanimously.

ITEM NO. 3 Communication from the Interim City Manager and Corporation Counsel Requesting Approval of the CITY MANAGER AGREEMETN with F. PATRICK URICH, and Requesting Authorization for the Mayor to Execute the Agreement.

Van Auken/Riggenbach move to approve. Sandberg notes that this contract increases severance from six months to nine months from what it was under our previous city manager. Former city manager Randy Oliver got 12 months severance, and after that we moved to reduce the severance. Now we’re expanding it again. Why, when we’re concerned about finances? Van Auken says managers are not “fungible.” The current candidate is a more competent administrator than the last one. She also suspects this might be “a little low” for severance among city managers. Sandberg counters that the candidate has no experience as a city manager; he’s been a county administrator, which has different responsibilities.

Next, Sandberg asks, “what is the incentive pay plan” that we’re buying into? Ardis says “there isn’t anything defined yet.” “Those will be determined after we have a goal-determining session.” And we “may or may not” have an incentive plan. Sandberg clarifies that any incentive pay plan, if an agreement is reached with the city manager in the future, will come back before the council for approval; no side agreements.

Sandberg then mentions that we took all travel and education out of the budget for the rest of city departments, but we’re locking travel and education into the city manager’s contract. Also questions why we’re giving this candidate IMRF, Social Security, and a deferred compensation plan.

Ardis says this contract is not extravagant. He also thinks that Urich’s ten years as county administrator should be given more credence. He says Sandberg has no experience as a city manager and asked to be city manager in executive session. “You get what you pay for,” Ardis says, and this contract is not unreasonable. He says he doesn’t agree with any of Sandberg’s opinion on this item.

Motion passes 9-1 (Sandberg).

ITEM NO. 4 Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management with Recommendation from the Planning Commission to Adopt an ORDINANCE Approving a WAIVER for LOT NO. 9 of FIELDS CROSSING SUBDIVISION (10808 N. GLENFIELD DRIVE) Establishing an ALTERNATIVE STREAM BUFFER AREA.

Irving/Turner move to approve. No discussion. Motion passes 9-1 (Sandberg).

ITEM NO. 5 Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management Requesting Concurrence With EITHER the Recommendation from the Zoning Commission to Adopt ORDINANCE “A” OR with the Recommendation from the Staff to Adopt ORDINANCE “B” Granting a SPECIAL USE in a Class 13 (General Industrial) District for a NEW RECYCLING FACILITY and INCLUDING EXISTING CONDITIONS and DEVELOPMENTS, Which Include But are Not Limited to WOOD CHIPPING and MUNICIPAL PUBLIC WORKS SERVICES for Property Located at the NORTHWEST CORNER of DARST STREET and WEST CLARK STREET, with Conditions.

Gulley moves to concur with Zoning Commission’s recommendation to adopt Ordinance A; seconded by Van Auken. Brief presentation introduced by attorney Bob Hall. Rich Guerard — another attorney representing Southwind Ras Recycling Center — is giving the presentation. “RAS” stands for “recycling asphalt shingles.” Talks about how this recycling is good for the environment and is IEPA-approved. He furthermore explains the process of how the shingles are recycled.

Gulley says he’s excited about this new business. Sandberg says the difference between A and B was if and when they pave the parking lot. Staff’s recommendation (ordinance B) was to pave it immediately. The Zoning Commission’s recommendation (ordinance A) is to pave it later based on certain conditions. Sandberg asks how the Zoning Commission’s recommendation fits with the next item, which has to do with the lease agreement. Guerard said they will pave the parking lot after the third year. Motion passes unanimously.

ITEM NO. 6 Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Approval of a LEASE with SOUTHWIND RAS, LCC for Use of a Portion of the City-Owned Property on DARST STREET for the OPERATION of an ASPHALT SHINGLE RECYCLING FACILITY.

Gulley/Turner move to approve; passes unanimously. No discussion.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

(10-057) Communication from the Interim City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management Requesting Concurrence with EITHER the Recommendation from the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) to Adopt ORDINANCE “A” OR with the Recommendation from Staff to Adopt ORDINANCE “B” Amending CHAPTER 16 of the Code of the City of Peoria Related to the HISTORIC LANDMARK DESIGNATION PROCESS and APPEALS or Other Actions as the Council May Deem Appropriate. (New Communication and New Ordinance)

Van Auken moves to approve Ordinance B; seconded by Gulley. Van Auken now lists the changes that are being proposed (and the changes being rejected). The floor is opened for comments from any citizens who would like to address the council on this matter.

• Attorney Bob Hall — He apparently lives in Commerce Bank, based on his address. Says he wants the council appeal to require a majority vote, not a super-majority. Van Auken says it’s a simple majority. Hall says he supports everything except one item: owner consent. The motion makes “owner consent” only one criteria. He would like to see the owner’s consent be required. He also thinks the establishment of a historic district should require 2/3 of property owners in that district. And he thinks churches and religious groups should be exempt regardless. “Landmark designation is a powerful, powerful restriction,” he says. “It is tantamount to a taking of one’s property.” Yet he says he supports historic preservation. He argues strenuously for owner’s consent. “The threat of historic preservation without owner’s consent is a disincentive toward innercity development.”
• Robert Powers — Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission. Asks council to approve the motion on the floor as written. Also defends the owner’s consent criterion as written.
• Mark Walton — Also lives in the Commerce Bank building. He’s speaking in regards to churches and historic preservation. Asks how the council will balance church’s first-amendment interests with the community’s historic preservation interests. Speaks in favor of exempting churches.
• Jim Bateman — President of Central Illinois Landmarks Foundation. Lives in Chillicothe. Presents stack of petitions signed by over 500 citizens supporting the motion on the floor. Lists a lot of success stories of buildings that were saved because owner’s consent was not required. These are all beautiful landmarks in our city that have been kept up through adaptive reuse — for example, the Musician’s Hall that is now the home of Busey Bank. “We can’t assume that every owner is going to do the right thing,” he concludes to a smattering of applause.
• Mike Jahowski (sp?) — lives in Peoria and is Senior Vice President for OSF St. Francis Medical Center. They have 2.1 million square feet, most of which is older buildings. Their concern is that, going forward, these buildings can be landmarked, “which would impede our authority to maintain those buildings” in such a way that they can continue to provide excellent medical care. He strongly requests owner consent.
• Brian Meginness — lives in Peoria and agrees with Bob Hall. He’s representing OSF and the Catholic Diocese. Says he supports everything in the motion on the floor except for owner consent. Mentions that several Catholic churches are on the list of potential buildings to be landmarked, as well as other properties owned by the Catholic Diocese and OSF. “We take care of our structures. We take care of our churches. And we do not want to have our [properties] subject to the jurisdiction of the Historic Preservation Commission. Period.” He gets applause from the other side of the room as he finishes.

That’s it for public comment. Van Auken thanks Robert Powers for all his work on the Commission and the ad hoc committee. Van Auken says “everybody is subject to land use laws,” and she disagrees (gasp!) with Bob Hall. I’m pleasantly surprised to hear her take him on. The HPC is “a walk in the park” compared to going before the Liquor Commission.” Having only one criterion (owner consent) doesn’t work. She gives the example of the Frank Lloyd Wright house — do we want to leave that up to the owner of the house to determine if it can be torn down? “We can’t give owners total veto power,” she concludes.

Councilman Turner moves to amend the motion to make owner consent the sole criterion for historic designation; seconded by Montelongo. Spain says he will not support the amendment. Sandberg contrasts the terms of “owner” and “caretaker.” He contends that owners of buildings are really caretakers taking care of these properties and passing them down to the next generation. Sandberg’s comments are applauded.

Ardis is voting for the amendment, and speaks in favor of it. Gulley appears to be leaning toward requiring owner consent at least for religious institutions, and has some additional questions. Riggenbach says “if I’m gonna err, I want to err on the side of the property owner.” So, apparently it looks like Riggenbach will be erring and supporting the amendment.

Amendment passes 7-3 (Sandberg, Spain, Van Auken voting nay). And with that, the historic preservation ordinance is eviscerated.

Sandberg asks if the ordinance as amended will be acceptable to the State of Illinois, or if we’ll lose local control. Planning and Growth Director Pat Landes answers saying that to the best of her knowledge, we will not lose local control. She reads the state requirements, which the new ordinance would appear to fulfill.

Amended motion passes 8-2 (Sandberg, Van Auken).

Spain moves to receive petitions from Mr. Bateman. Approved by unanimous consent.

(11-035) Communication from the Interim City Manager and Police Chief Requesting Approval for a TWO-YEAR CONTRACT with HARRIS S. UNIFORMS for COMMISSIONED PERSONNEL and SIPCO/IDENTITY APPAREL for CIVILIAN PERSONNEL and PARKING ENFORCEMENT, in the Amount of $100,000.00 for Each Year.

Gulley/Montelongo move to defer to next meeting; passes unanimously. No discussion.

NEW BUSINESS

Riggenbach commends David Barber and the Public Works Department for their snow removal job.

Ardis asks for a motion to ask the Historic Preservation Commission for ideas to incentivize property owners to submit their historic properties for preservation. So moved by Montelongo/Spain. Motion passes unanimously. Ardis makes other miscellaneous announcements.

CITIZENS’ OPPORTUNITY TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL/TOWN BOARD

Savino Sierra addresses the council, as usual. He sounds a little under the weather. He criticizes Public Works for doing a bad job clearing the snow.

Frederick Smith, who has written a report for this blog (see next post), speaks about the East Village Growth Cell TIF. He wants to know how the TIF funds will be used. “A plan needs to be in place,” he says, for how those funds will be used. In particular, he’s concerned that these funds will be used to bail out the failed MidTown Plaza.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

ADJOURNMENT

No executive session tonight. Adjourned. Goodnight, everyone! If you’d like to hang out with Billy Dennis and me tonight, come on out to Whitey’s on Sheridan. It’s time for pizza.

Welcome to City Council Chambers, City Hall, in downtown Peoria. It’s time for another City Council meeting. If you’re following along live this evening, be sure to refresh your browser regularly. Now, without any further ado, here’s the agenda:

Continue reading Peoria City Council 1/25/2011 (Live Blog) →

The Peoria City Council will be meeting tonight (Tuesday, Dec. 14) to approve the final 2011 budget and dispose of other regular business. Here’s the agenda. You can hear the meeting on 89.9 FM (WCBU) tonight at 6:15 p.m., either on the radio or live-streamed over the Internet. The meeting will also be broadcast on Comcast Cable channel 22. Past meetings can be viewed online here.

Hi everyone! Sorry I’m late tonight. However, you didn’t really miss anything. So far, everything has been sailing through the council with no opposition. The mayor and all council members are here except for George Jacob.

ITEM NO. 1 CONSIDERATION OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS BY OMNIBUS VOTE, for the City of Peoria, with Recommendations as Outlined:

A. NOTICE OF LAWSUIT on Behalf of LORRAINE SEPHUS Regarding a Claim Involving an Accident on October 2, 2009, which Occurred at the Intersection of Griswold and Antoinette Avenues, with Recommendation to Refer to the Legal Department.

B. Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Approval of N. E. FINCH COMPANY and CARRI SCHARF TRUCKING as VENDORS for TRACTION SAND to MIX with ROCK SALT, as Outlined.

C. Communication from the City Manager and Assistant Director of Planning and Growth Management Requesting Approval of a SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT to the CITY OF PEORIA’S HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION and RAPID RE-HOUSING PROGRAM (HPRP) Expanding the UTILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM and? ADDING a RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, and with a Request to AMEND the EXISTING AGREEMENTS, as Outlined.

D. Communication from the City Manager and Assistant Director of Planning and Growth Management Requesting Approval of the 2011 ANNUAL PLAN for SUBMISSION to the UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT of HOUSING and URBAN DEVELOPMENT.

E. Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Approval of the PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT with TERRA ENGINEERING, LTD., in an Amount Not to Exceed $58,825.19, for Preliminary Engineering Services for the GLEN AVENUE and UNIVERSITY STREET INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT.

F. Communication from the City Manager and Assistant Director of Planning and Growth Management with Recommendation from the Planning Commission and Staff to Approve a RESOLUTION Amending the CITY OF PEORIA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN and FUTURE LAND USE PLAN (Map) to Change the Future Land Use Designation of Property Currently Designated High Density Residential to a Medium Density Residential Designation for Property Located at 824 W. MOSS AVENUE (Parcels 18-08-226-015 and 18-08-226-016).

G. Communication from the City Manager and Assistant Director of Planning and Growth Management with Recommendation from the Zoning Commission and Staff to Adopt an ORDINANCE Rezoning Property Located at 824 W. MOSS AVENUE from the Present Class R-6 (Multi-Family Residential) District to a Class R-1 (Single Family Residential) District.

H. Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with Recommendation from the Board of Local Improvements to Adopt an ORDINANCE Providing for the NORTH EASTON PLACE (from North Gale Avenue to West Forrest Hill Avenue) SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, the Net Length of 1,017 Feet or 0.19 Mile.

I. Communication from the City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Amending the CITY OF PEORIA BUDGET for FY 2010 Relating to the USE of NORTHSIDE RIVERFRONT TIF FUNDS, in the Amount of $15,000.00, to CONDUCT ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS of CITY-OWNED PROPERTY Along the ILLINOIS RIVER.

J. Communication from the City Manager and Assistant Director of Planning and Growth Management Regarding the GLEN OAK IMPACT ZONE 2011 ACTION PLAN, with Request to Receive and File. (Refer to Item No. 10-373)

K. Communication from the City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Regarding the CITY OF PEORIA FIREFIGHTER’S PENSION FUND and the CITY OF PEORIA POLICE PENSION FUND ACTUARIAL REPORTS as of JANUARY 1, 2010, with Request to Receive and File.

L. APPOINTMENT by Mayor Jim Ardis to the SPRINGDALE CEMETERY MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY, with Request to Concur:

James E. Glazebrook (Voting) – Term Expires 6/30/2013

M. REPORT of CITY TREASURER PATRICK A. NICHTING for the MONTH of SEPTEMBER 2010, with Request to Receive and File.

N. PEORIA PUBLIC LIBRARY FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL REPORT for Period Ending SEPTEMBER 30, 2010, with Request to Receive and File.

Riggenbach removed Item J just to sing its praises, and Gulley abstained from Item C due to being on the board of the organization. Other than that, everything passed unanimously.

ITEM NO. 2 Communication from the City Manager and Assistant Director of Planning and Growth Management with Recommendation from the Historic Preservation Commission to Adopt an ORDINANCE Approving the DESIGNATION of 1412 N. E. PERRY AVENUE, as a LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK.

Passed unanimously.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

(10-057) Communication from the City Manager and Assistant Director of Planning and Growth Management with Request to DEFER the ORDINANCE Amending CHAPTER 16 of the Code of the City of Peoria Related to the HISTORIC DESIGNATION PROCESS until the DECEMBER 14, 2010, REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING.

Changed to a deferral until second meeting in January 2011. Passed unanimously.

(10-391) Communication from the City Manager and Assistant Director of Planning and Growth Management with Request to Adopt a REVISED ORDINANCE Amending APPENDIX B of the Code of the City of Peoria Relating to WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITIES, with a Request to Receive and File the SUPPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION. (Revised Ordinance)

Passed unanimously.

(10-458) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Approval of the PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT with HANSON PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, INC., in an Amount Not to Exceed $950,000.00, for PHASE I ENGINEERING SERVICES for WASHINGTON STREET Between I-74 and MacARTHUR HIGHWAY. (New Communication and New Agreement)

Spears is giving a PowerPoint presentation on why this project is so important. He’s talking about the importance of “pedestrian-focused intimate setting[s],” “walkable streets,” urban living options, “safe and active shopping,” etc. He’s preaching to the choir here at the Chronicle. He’s talking about the importance of places being open after 6:00 because that’s when the majority of consumer spending happens. (Funny, that didn’t seem to be a concern when they were approving the museum block, which will close before 6.)

He says the designer is also working on the project in East Peoria, adding “across the river is our competition.” He also says the designer they want to hire is his brother-in-law (he also says this is not a conflict of interest — he checked with legal). He says this is “more than the Duany plan — it’s about economics.” (I’m not sure what that means exactly.) End of presentation.

Sandberg has a question about the scope of the design work — does it end at MacArthur or Edmund Street? Public Works Director Barber says the design work only goes to MacArthur, except that they will look at the intersection, which could impact the next block between MacArthur and Edmund. However, the streetscape and pedestrian-friendliness will stop at MacArthur. On the northern end, the streetscape work will effectively end at Hamilton Blvd., not I-74. Sandberg further points out that there’s not enough money available to complete Phase I at this time, which Barber verifies. Sandberg says, “We’re starting a process that isn’t fully funded” and “doesn’t include all the vision of a new Warehouse District.” Sandberg would like to see it be fully funded.

Spain says he agrees with Sandberg, but wants to “use available dollars” to get the project started. He says we can still do a lot with the dollars we have, even though we can’t do everything we want right now.

Mayor Ardis says he’s supporting the motion despite some reservations. Spears says once we have the right development in there, “we won’t have to worry about the dollars and cents” because the development will grow from one neighborhood to the next.

Motion passes 9-1 (Spears voting nay). I was distracted at the beginning of the presentation — why did Spears vote “nay”? I’ll try to get some clarification…. (Update: I’ve asked around, and others are also confused.)

(10-464) Communication from the City Manager Requesting for the City Council to Provide Direction to the Administration on the PRELIMINARY FY 2011 OPERATING BUDGET.

City Manager Scott Moore is giving a presentation on the budget. The elimination of 11 police officers, 15 firefighters, and three Public Works employees are still in the City Manager’s recommendation. The floor is now open for discussion.

Turner asks about parking enforcement officers (why cut them when they’re revenue generators?). Van Auken starts to ask questions about fees, but they are part of the next agenda item. All the council members are referring to a handout that I do not have and is apparently not posted with the agenda on the City’s website. Sandberg is now asking some questions about the use of TIF funds to pay for certain personnel. Apparently, one of the suggestions is to reimburse Economic Development salaries from TIF funds. Sandberg says “that’s like eating your own arm that’s trying to feed yourself.” He also complains that taking things out of next year’s budget and putting them in the following year’s budget artificially inflates the following year’s budget deficit.

Van Auken asks City Manager about the possibility of outsourcing Economic Development to, say, the EDC. Moore has a handout on that issue to which he directs Van Auken. Van Auken asks some follow-up questions, and Moore doesn’t really have an answer for them. Van Auken wants to know how much of the $360,000+ for Economic Development can be saved by partnering with EDC, and what it will take to get those numbers. Moore says he needs council direction on which operations they want to outsource. Van Auken says she wants the manager to come back with options, even the possibility of getting rid of the department completely. She doesn’t want the council to have to micromanage this effort, but have the manager step up and offer suggestions. Riggenbach says the same thing as Van Auken. Says not to limit himself to the EDC, but also consider ways we can partner with the County. Gulley says he’s uncomfortable talking about eliminating the department, but concurs that he would like to see options from the City Manager. Turner speaks in favor of Economic Development — it’s “vitally, vitally important,” he says. Business recruitment, retaining business, etc., are important activities for which we need a front-line person.

Montelongo asks if there are any assets we could sell off. [Ha! How about the $10 million Sears block they just gave away for a buck?!] Susan Schlupp says there are several vacant lots and some larger properties in Southtown they are trying to sell. Mayor Ardis, without actually saying it, basically says that public safety positions are more important than Economic Development positions. He also says that Economic Development isn’t doing much because they don’t have a department head.

Spain compliments the Mayor, then refers to the 10/29 Issues Update and asks about possible further reductions to training and travel. Moore says these line items have been cut every year. The amount we’re spending on travel/training per employee is only about $350. To cut it more, some departments would just have to cut travel/training completely. Spain compliments staff for their work in cutting this area. Now he asks about the report back regarding publications — are there ways we can use technology to reduce publication costs? Answer: more information to come after more discussions with staff. Next, he asks about internet-based payroll. Director Scroggins says they’re investigating it; apparently they had a meeting set up with a provider, but the rep had to cancel so the meeting was rescheduled.

[I have the new budget handouts now, thanks to Tanya Koonce from WCBU — Thanks, Tanya!]

Irving asks some questions for clarification, then states that in the private sector, during tough times, travel and training go way down. He acknowledges the cuts that have been made, but says they need to be reduced even more. Van Auken harps on travel and training as well, saying it needs to be looked at on a department-by-department basis because “some departments have done better than others” at cutting travel. She also seems to think that some staff members are passing up opportunities to get training in town, then taking the training out of town at greater cost to the City.

More questions for which there are no answers…. Ardis asks for motion to receive and file, and a request for the City Manager to bring back a plan next meeting to close the remaining budget gap.

Sandberg asks that all the departments’ information be presented in the same format. Apparently, Public Works’ information was not presented the same way as the other departments. Montelongo still wants to see what assets the City has that could possibly be sold.

Spain/Gulley move to close discussion and receive and file. Motion passes unanimously.

(10-465) Communication from the City Manager Requesting Direction to Staff Regarding POTENTIAL INCREASES to VARIOUS FEES and FINES.

Van Auken moves to accept fees/fines as recommended with the exception of historic designation and historic landmark designation fees; seconded by Turner. Motion passes 9-1 (Sandberg voting nay).

PUBLIC COMMENTS Regarding the FY 2011 CITY OF PEORIA BUDGET.

No one has any comments.

NEW BUSINESS

Ryan Spain thanks Councilman Jacob for the Nancy Brinker books he gave to each member of the council. Apparently, he bought the books in March (before his accident), but they were just delivered today.

PRESENTATION

ITEM NO. 1 PRESENTATION by ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER COMPANY Regarding INVESTMENT at THEIR PLANT.

Short presentation with much technical talk not completely into the microphone.

PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES & COMMUNICATIONS TOWN OF THE CITY OF PEORIA

ITEM NO. 1 Communication from the Town Officials Budget Committee Requesting Approval of the PROPOSED ESTIMATED TAX LEVY of $2,179,219.00 With an ESTIMATED TAX RATE of .13663 for the Town of the City of Peoria and Requesting to Enter This Action into the Permanent Record.

Trustee Irving says he accidentally threw his paper away. Joe Whalen has an extra copy he hurries to give Irving. Irving makes motion to approve the same levy amount as 2009/seconded by Sandberg. Motion passes unanimously.

ITEM NO. 2 TOWN OF THE CITY OF PEORIA FINANCIAL REPORT for Period Ending 9/30/2010, with Request to Receive and File.

Motion to approve by Irving/Spain. No discussion. Passes unanimously.

CITIZEN REQUESTS TO ADDRESS THE COUNCIL

Savino Sierra is the only one. He complains about deteriorating sidewalks around schools.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

ADJOURNMENT

There is an executive session (poor souls, it’s already 8:58 p.m.), but the rest of us get to go home. Or, in my case, over to the Bullpen (in Landmark) for a late supper. Come on by and hang out if you want. Goodnight, all!

Hello! I’m coming to you live from Peoria City Hall, Council Chambers. I’ll be updating this post throughout the evening, so be sure to refresh your browser regularly to see the latest updates. Here’s tonight’s agenda:

ITEM NO. 1 CONSIDERATION OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS BY OMNIBUS VOTE, for the City of Peoria, with Recommendations as Outlined:

A. TAG DAY REQUEST from the KOREAN WAR VETERANS OF AMERICA, PEORIA CHAPTER #243, Requesting Permission to Sell KOREAN WAR DAISIES in the City of Peoria on FRIDAY and SATURDAY, JUNE 17 and 18, 2011. (Dates are open.)

B. Communication from the City Manager and Finance Director/Comptroller Requesting Authorization for the City Manager to Enter Into an AGREEMENT with PNC BANK for RENEWAL BANKING SERVICES for ONE YEAR, Commencing January 1, 2011, Under Terms of the Existing One Year Contract with PNC BANK with Specific 2011 Modifications; and Requesting Execution of an ADDENDUM to Incorporate Specific CONTRACT MODIFICATIONS Outlined in PNC Bank’s Attached 2011 Contract Extension Proposal.

C. Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel Requesting Approval of an INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT with ILLINOIS CENTRAL COLLEGE Pertaining to MUTUAL AID Between POLICE DEPARTMENTS.

D. Communication from the City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management Requesting Approval of a SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT to the 2010 HUD ANNUAL ACTION PLAN to REALLOCATE $100,000.00 of HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP GRANT (HOME) FUNDS from a Subgrantee Project to the DOWNPAYMENT ASSISTANCE (DPA) PROGRAM.

E. Communication from the City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management Requesting an INCREASE in the BUDGETED AMOUNT for the MacARTHUR APARTMENT PROJECT by $8,000.00 in CDBG FUNDS.

F. Communication from the City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management with Recommendation from the Zoning Commission and Staff to Adopt an ORDINANCE Granting a SPECIAL USE in a Class C2 (Large Scale Commercial) District for a RADIO TOWER for the Property Located at 2006 W. ALTORFER DRIVE, with Conditions.

G. Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with Request to Receive and File the UPDATED 2010 – 2011 SNOW REMOVAL AND ICE CONTROL PLAN.

H. APPOINTMENTS by Mayor Jim Ardis to the PLANNING COMMISSION, with Request to Concur.

Kelley A. Lemons (Voting) – Term Expires 6/30/2012

I. APPOINTMENTS by Mayor Jim Ardis to the ADVISORY COMMISSION ON HUMAN RESOURCES, with Request to Concur.

Katherine Coyle (Voting) – Term Expires 6/30/2012
Judith L. Oakford (Voting) – Term Expires 6/30/2013

J. APPOINTMENTS by Mayor Jim Ardis to the FAIR EMPLOYMENT AND HOUSING COMMISSION, with Request to Concur.

Jerrodean D. Ashby (Voting) – Term Expires 6/30/2012
Sherry Ellis-Smith (Voting) – Term Expires 6/30/2013
Verma Harris (Voting) – Term Expires 6/30/2013

Items removed from the consent agenda by the council person noted in parentheses: Item B (Riggenbach). The remaining items passed unanimously.

• Item B — Riggenbach is upset about the cost of the City’s banking services. The City has about $50 million in 20 different accounts on deposit at PNC, Riggenbach says, and it’s a “very attractive piece of business for a financial institution.” He says the “earnings credit rate” has dropped significantly, resulting in an extra $20,000 in banking fees from PNC. Recommends putting out an RFP for banking services; says we saved over $30,000 the last time we did that in 2005. Complains that this is coming to the Council at the last minute — too late to put this out for RFP. He moves to approve, but adds a stipulation that the staff bring back an RFP before September next year on this issue.

  Sandberg asks staff why they didn’t put this out for an RFP this year. Finance Director Scroggins says an RFP was done in 2008, and none of the other banks qualified. PNC worked with the City and gave them a very good earnings rate at that time. Because of the recession, the market is not good right now for looking at banking services, so they felt it was most prudent to bring this up for a one-year extension this year and do an RFP next year. Sandberg asks why no bank could satisfy our requirements the last time we went out for an RFP. Are our requirements reasonable? Response from Scroggins: It’s not that they couldn’t, but that they wouldn’t meet our requirements. Sandberg again challenges the requirements. Treasurer Nichting says another factor is that there’s not much demand for money right now because of tight credit markets. Says PNC is offering the City a good deal right now, and is giving us good quality of service.

  Van Auken says her issue is not with staff’s decision per se, but rather that they don’t share it with the Council until October, at the 11th hour. Staff should tell the Council to keep them in the loop within enough time for the Council to redirect staff if they disagree with staff’s direction. Riggenbach concurs with Van Auken. Ardis says the same thing happened a couple weeks ago regarding an insurance contract, and says Council wants to see change from the staff.

  Motion passes unanimously.

ITEM NO. 2 Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel Requesting Approval of the AMENDMENT to the 1996 INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT Between the City of Peoria and the PEORIA CIVIC CENTER AUTHORITY, Said Amendment Pertaining to HRA TAX WITHHOLDING, and Requesting Authorization for the City Manager to Execute the Amendment.

Spain moves to defer until December 14, seconded by Van Auken. Passes unanimously.

ITEM NO. 3 Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works Requesting Adoption of an ORDINANCE Vacating Approximately 507 FEET of the ALLEY RIGHT OF WAY on the NORTHERN END of Said ALLEY Located Between SPRING STREET and CAROLINE STREET, and Between N.E. ADAMS STREET and BOND STREET.

Gulley says this is a project “we’ve been working on for a number of years.” Moves to approve, seconded by Riggenbach. Gulley asks privilege of the floor for anyone to address the council on this issue.

• William Ordaz — Represents Detweiller Marina Neighborhood Association. Requests that the council deny this action. He addresses the same concerns I reported in my previous post. Says that when TIFs are significantly changed, it must go before the Joint Review Board, and that hasn’t happened with the northside TIF. For example, the S-curve that was part of the TIF and has now been removed — that’s a significant change to the TIF that was never brought before the Joint Review Board, he says. He’s also concerned about lack of transparency. Asks the council if they’re really for core neighborhoods.

Sandberg says he’s “perplexed” because the communication says the alley vacation is the “first step” in an expansion project. The first step should be meeting with neighbors, applying for rezoning, etc. Also is wondering when the City has ever approved a partial alley vacation. (Rhetorical question.) He says it’s never happened because we have policies and procedures against it. Are we just doing it because it’s a $15 million project? “Are we just whores?” he asks.

Gulley says this is not a $15 million project, so that’s not the driving issue. The item before us is vacation of the alley. Also says no business is going to spend money on architectural drawings, etc., if they don’t have their parcels assembled to do the project. He says this is a “simple vacation of an alley” and that it is allowed in a TIF. In this case, the first step is vacating the alley. The next step is to develop site plans and drawings for the project. Then we can meet with the neighbors to talk about site approval and how it fits into the neighborhood and take care of the concerns brought forward.

Sandberg reiterates that we’re only vacating part of an alley. Gulley says we did the same thing on Third Street, which starts an argument with Sandberg that Ardis breaks up. Sandberg then moves for one-month deferral, seconded by Spain. Gulley says there are problems with the deferral because we want to move forward, and a deferral will put us into December and delay the project, which will cause us to miss opportunities. Says the “problems” that have been brought forth are not really problems, and are no reason to hold up the project. Argues that it should be passed tonight. A motion to defer would be “anti-business” in Peoria, he says.

Ardis says this hinges on precedent because of the length of the alley vacation and safety of egress. Public Works Director Barber steps forward and says we’ve had meetings on this alley “a year or two ago when this first came up.” Says there’s a long dead-end alley off Wisconsin at Republic, etc. Says the neighbors at this location (under discussion tonight) do not have any concerns. Van Auken asks if police and fire were involved in this meeting. Barber says he doesn’t remember. Spears asks if property owners have changed in the past two years since the last neighborhood meeting. Barber says yes — O’Brien bought several neighbors’ property so he now owns the property on both sides of the alley all the way to Jim’s Autobody.

Spain is still concerned and wants information on what the new project is. Says he will support the deferral. Also says that the alley vacation shouldn’t be seen as a deal-killing threat. If the council okays the alley vacation, it doesn’t mean they’re any more or less likely to support the expansion plan.

Deferral passes 8-2 (Gulley and Montelongo voting nay).

ITEM NO. 4 Communication from the City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management with Recommendation from the Zoning Commission and Staff to Adopt the Following:

A. ORDINANCE Amending APPENDIX B of the Code of the City of Peoria Relating to FEES; and
B. ORDINANCE Amending APPENDIX C of the Code of the City of Peoria Relating to FEES.

Spain/Turner move to approve 4A; passes unanimously.
Spain/Van Auken move to approve 4B; passes unanimously. No discussion either item.

ITEM NO. 5 Communication from the City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management with Recommendation from the Zoning Commission and Staff to Adopt the Following:

A. ORDINANCE Amending APPENDIX B of the Code of the City of Peoria Relating to VEHICLE PARKING and STORAGE; and

B. ORDINANCE Amending APPENDIX C of the Code of the City of Peoria Relating to VEHICLE PARKING and STORAGE.

Van Auken/Turner move to approve 5A. Sandberg says he’s concerned about unintended consequences of this action. Says that it may result in more of these vehicles being parked on the street instead of on a person’s private property. Also says enforcement would be difficult, if not impossible, because these regulations will impact small vehicles as well as large ones, when it was the large vehicles the ordinance was intended to impact. Nevertheless, motion passes 9-1 (Gulley).

Van Auken/Turner move to approve 5B. Passes unanimously.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

(10-068) Communication from the City Manager and Acting Director of Human Resources Requesting Approval to ENTER into an AGREEMENT Between the CITY OF PEORIA and all EMPLOYEE BARGAINING UNITS to EXTEND the JOINT LABOR/MANAGEMENT HEALTH CARE COMMITTEE for (3) YEARS, Effective January 1, 2011, through December 31, 2013.

Spain moves for four-week deferral, seconded by Van Auken. Passes unanimously with no discussion.

(10-391) Communication from the City Manager and Director of Planning and Growth Management with Request to DEFER this Item Relating to WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITIES Until NOVEMBER 9, 2010, AND Request to EXTEND the MORATORIUM on the ISSUANCE of NEW PERMITS and APPROVALS. (New Communication)

Van Auken/Turner move to approve; passes unanimously without discussion.

(10-464) Communication from the City Manager Requesting for the City Council to Provide Direction to the Administration on the PRELIMINARY FY2011 OPERATING BUDGET.

City Manager Scott Moore asks that the item be deferred. Spain says he’s concerned about the amount of work left to do before a budget needs to be approved, and there are many items that need to be addressed soon. Moore says he’s still gathering information and wants to make sure Council has all the information they need to make decisions. Van Auken wants more analysis on why departments are suggesting certain fee increases — i.e., how did they come up with the amounts they’re suggesting?

Van Auken moves to defer the item until November 9, seconded by Spain; passes unanimously.

(10-465) Communication from the City Manager Requesting Direction to Staff Regarding POTENTIAL INCREASES to VARIOUS FEES and FINES.

Spain moves to defer until November 9, seconded by Irving; passes unanimously.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Regarding FY 2011 CITY OF PEORIA BUDGET.

No one from the public speaks to the council on this item.

NEW BUSINESS

• Turner says that he and Gulley will have a small business workshop on Saturday, Nov. 6 from 9-12 at Frank Campbell Community Center. Also thanks those involved in the recent Code Enforcement public meeting.

CITIZEN REQUESTS TO ADDRESS THE COUNCIL

• Savino Sierra — Speaks in favor of keeping police and fire department personnel from being cut in the budget. Also spoke in favor of O’Brien Steel’s yet-to-be-revealed expansion plans. Says sidewalks around schools flood when it rains hard. Says the City was supposed to fix them three years ago, but hasn’t done it yet.
• Peg Pendell (sp?) — Speaks against Item No. 5 that passed tonight. Also speaks against membership in neighborhood organizations and I guess neighborhood organizations in general. She made a big point of saying she’s not a member “by choice.” She said Planning & Growth Director Pat Landes said that Item 5 was discussed with the public at neighborhood association meetings in June. She was offended/outraged that this was the way it was presented to the public. Threatens a “peasant revolt” if there isn’t more transparency in government.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

ADJOURNMENT

There is an executive session, but the public meeting is adjourned at 8:03 p.m. Good night, all. Next Tuesday is election day, so no council meeting is planned.