City Council - Regular Meeting

Pastor Coverstone, could you please give the invocation this evening? One second.

Okay. Good evening, Madame Mayor, Council. Please pray with me. [sighs] Our Lord God, we give you praise uh and thanks for the way uh that you have given us life and gifted us uh to serve uh you and to serve others uh in this world that you've made. Lord, we praise you for your justice and pray that you would help us uh to live with each other in a way that reflects that justice and love. Lord, we thank you for your wisdom and pray that you would give us uh your wisdom to carry out uh the jobs and the callings that you've placed upon our lives. Uh and Lord, we pray uh also for your uh thanking you for your goodness and pray that you would help us to reflect that goodness uh in the way that we love and serve one another. And Lord, I pray all these things specifically for uh this mayor and this council. Uh Lord, that you would uh help them to serve uh this city well. And Lord, with some of the things that we saw last week, um we think of not just ourselves, but others. we think of Lena

uh and pray that you would be uh with that town, that city as they work and rebuild. We're grateful even as we've heard of organizations and ministries as well as the people of that city that have come alongside and and helped and cared and we pray that you give them success uh as they build back. Lord, we pray that you'd bless this meeting tonight uh and pray that you'd give uh wisdom to make decisions that are uh good for this city and this area. We pray in Jesus name. Amen. Amen. Thank you. We will officially call this meeting to order. Madam clerk, would you please take the role? Mayor Miller here. Alder persons Clem here. Johnson here. Simmons here. Parker here.

Stacy here. Shadel here. Sanders and Sers here. If you could please stand for the pledge of allegiance led by Alderman Shadel. To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Item number one is the approval of the agenda. Is there such a motion? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Shadel, seconded by Alderman Clem. All those in favor signify by saying I.

I. Opposed. That motion passes. Item number two is approval from the minutes from the council meeting on March 16th and April 6th, 2026. Is there a motion to approve? So move. Second. Motion made by Alderman Shadel, seconded by Alderman Clem. All those in favor signify by saying I. I. Opposed. That motion passes. Next, we have a couple of proclamations. [clears throat]

Stand over here. That would be great. All right. So we have uh a proclamation for National Library Week. Whereas libraries spark creativity, fuel imagination, and inspire lifelong learning, offering a space where individuals of all ages can find joy through [clears throat] exploration and discovery. And whereas libraries serve as vibrant community hubs connecting people with knowledge, technology, and resources while fostering civic engagement, critical thinking, and cultural engagement. And whereas libraries provide free and accessible equitable access to books, digital tools, and innovative programs, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have the support that they need to learn, connect, and thrive. And whereas dedicated librarians, library workers provide welcoming spaces that inspire discovery, collaboration, and creativity for all. And whereas libraries, librarians, and library workers across the country are joining together to celebrate under the theme find your joy. Now therefore, I Jodie Miller hereby declare April 19th through the 25th, 2026 as National Library Week in the city of Freeport and encourage all residents to visit the Freeport Public Library and explore its resources as we celebrate all the ways that the library helps our community find joy. And it is a pleasure that this is your first proclamation. [applause]

I'll save it for my report.

Okay. [laughter] And then one more proclamation for Arbor Day. So whereas in 1872 J Sterling Morton proposed that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees. And whereas the holiday known as Arbor Day was first observed with the planting of more than 1 million trees in Nebraska. And whereas Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world and is considered a holiday that celebrates nature with a purpose of encouraging the planting of trees and to appreciate trees. And whereas trees can reduce erosion of top soil, lower our energy costs, clean the air, produce energy, and provide habitat for wildlife. And whereas trees are a renewable source, providing paper, wood to build and heat our homes, fuel for fires, and countless other wood products. And whereas trees in our community increase property value, enhance and beautify our community. So therefore, I Jodie Miller hereby declare April 24th, 2026 as Arbor Day in the city of Freeport and all encourage all citizens to plant and care for trees in our community and encourage you to work with our staff to help select the best trees for each area. Manager Moyer. [applause]

I'd like to uh invite everyone uh out to Crate Park on Friday. I believe it's 10 o'clock. I'll have to double check that. For our Arbor Day celebration, we'll be planting some trees. We're working with outside groups this year to uh do additional plantings. We have uh I think 22 trees coming in um that are about 5 foot tall and then we've got a whole lot of s maybe like 200 saplings that we're going to plant. So uh please join us for the celebration at Crate Park. Thank you.

And item number four is recognition. Uh, Chief Fraso and States Attorney Carl Larson just you can learn. You can learn more about the values of an organization by watching what the people within it do than by listening to what they say. By way of brief explanation for my presence here today, I was invited to speak as a result of a letter of commendation that I wrote for the police Freeport Police Department detective bureau. That letter recognized the substantial lastminute work they undertook in a recent first-degree murder case. Specifically, just before uh the trial was to begin, an important witness had gone missing. The detectives dropped what they were doing, found an address in Rockford, staked out the address for more than a day, got the witness served with a subpoena, and when they learned that he didn't have transportation to Freeport, they transported him to court and back to Rockford. act afterwards. Their work significantly increased the likelihood of a just result and a just result occurred. Their effort in that matter was not an outlier. It was a part of a larger consistent pattern of excellence. Their work in this case and in many others reflects a group of professionals who care deeply about their community and believe at a fundamental level that every person deserves to live in a safe neighborhood. Their commitment is rare and it's worth

celebrating. Please join me in a round of applause to thank the Freeport Police Department Detective Bureau for a JOB WELL DONE. [applause]

THANK YOU. I BELIEVE THE chief has some awards for you. As I call you guys up, when you guys come up, can you just stand here for the photo op as well? Um, Detective Eric Demer. [applause] [clears throat]

Detective Juan GARDUNHO [applause] [applause] Corporal Dustin GRO [applause]

DETECTIVE SERGEANT ANDREW GOOD. [applause] Last but not least, Detective Lieutenant Brian Polish. [applause]

[laughter] [applause] [cough]

Item number five is public comment. There was none signed in. So we'll move on to item number six, which is the consent agenda. The consent agenda is considered to be routine in nature unless someone has something they'd like to remove for further discussion. The consent agenda consists of approving to receive and place on file the minutes of the board and commission meetings from foreign fire insurance board from February 19th, the public library board of trustees March 11th, liquor commission March 12th. Also is the fire department's monthly report and the building permits report for March of 2026. Adoption of resolution 202660, the resolution to IDOT to request temporary street closures for the TuddyByaker parade on July 12th and report of the CDBG housing rehabilitation grant payment April 17th and the finance bills payable in the total of1,785,3847 and [snorts] the approval of payroll for pay period ending April 4th, 2026 in the total of 738,59. $960. Is there a motion to approve?

So moved. I just want to say it says 70 cent on my paper just for correction. It says 70 cent. You said 60. I didn't say 70. Oh, I apologize. That's all right. I was just making sure the record. Thanks for the catch. Second. Was that you? Yes. All right. We have a motion by Alderman Shadel, seconded by Alderman Clem. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, hi. Sers, I. Clem, hi. Johnson, I. Simmons, I. Parker, I. And Stacy, I. The motion [clears throat] passes 8 to zero. And item number seven is a reappoint. Can you please read?

Reappoint of John Green to the building commission effective through April 30th, 2030. Thank you. Is there a motion to approve? So moved. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman Shadel. Discussion on the appointment. Madame clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, hi. Sellers. Hi. Clem. Hi. Johnson. Hi. Simmons. Hi. Parker. I. Stacy. I. And that motion passes 8 to zero as well. Item number eight is the second reading of ordinance 202618. Could you please read this?

Ordinance amending section 8006.20 20 regarding non-licensy alcoholic uh liquor delivery services of the liquor codes. Thank you, manager. Uh thank you, your honor. Uh this was brought to council on April 6th. Um attorney Cox presented and essentially this aligns our liquor code with that of the state and staff recommends moving forward with this uh with the approval. Any further discussion? Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel. Hi Sanders. Hi Sers. Hi Clem. Hi Johnson. Hi Simmons. Hi Parker. I Stacy. [clears throat]

I'm sorry. Did you say something and I missed it? No. Your vote is no. The uh ordinance passes 7 to one. Item number nine is the second reading of ordinance 2026 uh 40 I'm sorry 24. Could you please read this ordinance annexing well number 12 property to the city of Freeport, Stevenson County, Illinois. Thank you, manager Ber.

Thank you, your honor. Uh this came before council April 6th. Uh staff is requesting the annexation of uh approximately 7 acres on Forest Road uh just to the south of Creek Park area. and uh staff recommends moving forward with the annexation. Thank you. Any discussion? Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, hi. Sers, hi. Clem. Hi. Johnson. Hi. Simmons. Hi. Parker. I. Stacy. I. The ordinance passes 8 to zero.

And item number 10 is the first reading of ordinance 2026 26. Could you please read this? supplemental appropriation ordinance for the fiscal year beginning January 126 providing funding for new deputy clerkfoy clerk position. Thank you, manager warrior.

Thank you, your honor. April 6th, uh council approved the creation of this uh foyer clerk position and uh staff is uh coming forward with a supplemental request to u appropriate the funds necessary to hire this person. We're expecting about 750 hours uh for the remainder of the year 2026 at a scale between 1959 and 2204 an hour um working out to about $14,000. Staff recommends approval of the supplemental ordinance. So move second. Have a motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Sers to move [laughter] this ordinance forward. Discussion

request for suspension of the rules. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Shadel to suspend the rules. Suspension of the rules is non debatable and was passed by twothirds majority. Madam clerk, would you please take the role on the suspension only? Shadel, I. Sanders, no. Sers, I. Clem, I. Johnson, I. Simmons, no. Parker, I Stacy, no. And the suspension fails five to three. Oh, madam clerk. So, because half the council voted in favor of Okay, it's over four being able to vote. I'm sorry, mayor. What say you? I

and so that does cause the suspension to pass six. Wait, wait, wait, wait. I called that all wrong. It failed three to five. it. Attorney Zo, help me out. 1 2 3 4 five. It didn't It didn't have six votes. So, it was 5 to three. I'm so sorry. 2/3 vote is required. The mayor made it six. It passes six to three. So, now before you council, is the final passage of this ordinance? Is there discussion? Madam clerk, please state the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, no. Sellers, I. Clem. Hi. Johnson. Hi. Simmons. Hi. Parker.

Hi. And [clears throat] Stacy. No. And the ordinance passes 6 to2.

Item number 11 is the first reading of ordinance 2026 28. Could you please read this? Ordinance amending part 4 traffic code title 8 parking chapter 480 parking generally section 480.24D 24D regarding disabled persons and veterans parking designation at 215 North Walnut Avenue. Thank you, manager.

Uh thank you, your honor. The city of Freeport has received a request for an ADA parking stall at 215 North Walnut Avenue uh for a resident with handicap placard. Uh the owner of the property is Wayne Canali and the tenant is Carmen Rios. um staff request moving forward with the additional placard and uh a suspension of the rules if if if possible. Is there a motion to move this forward? Some move. Second. A motion made by Alderman Sers, seconded by Alderman Clem. Discussion on the ordinance. And we a motion to suspend the rules.

Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Simmons, seconded by Alderman Sellers to suspend the rules. Again, suspension of the rules is non-debatable. Madam clerk, please take the role in the suspension only. I am sorry, I wasn't ready for that. That was sellers Simmons or the other way around. Sellers Simmons Simmons. Sellers Shadel. Hi, Sanders. Hi Sers. I Clem I Johnson I Simmons I Parker I and Stacy I the suspension passes 8 to zero.

So then now before you for the final passage is this ordinance any further discussion on this Alderman Johnson? I just wondered what 229 West Clark had to do with 215 North Walnut Avenue. I'll be glad to answer that. Um, so Mr. Canali owns both properties and they're adjoining right next to each other. Okay. So, while the it's the next property to the north, but it has a Clark address. Okay.

Okay. So, the reason is uh that I pointed that out is there is a uh driveway uh currently at the Clark Street uh uh address that is next to this one. That be it. It's a dirt driveway. It's not a a concrete or asphalt driveway. I just thought it was representative that I should explain that uh through the the memo and with the photos what the existing uh what appears to be a driveway on the property which actually goes with the neighboring property that u Mr. Canal owns both. Okay. Thank you. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel.

Hi Sanders. Hi Sers. Hi. Clem. Hi. Johnson. I Simmons. I Parker. I. And Stacy. I. The [clears throat] ordinance passes 8 to zero. And item number 12 is the adoption of resolution 202648. Could you please read this? Resolution appropriating or allocating matching funds to Illinois Department of Transportation Street Project on FAP Route 561 or Galina Avenue. Manager.

Uh thank you, your honor. Uh we've been working quite a bit this year on streets and getting things launched. Um, Galina Avenue is uh selected by IDOT to move forward from uh Clark to Park uh repaving and it is going to cost uh quite a bit of money, $6.3 million. Uh there is a match for the city's portion that is uh $193 uh I'm sorry, $193,30 in matching funds and staff request uh moving forward. This was budgeted in the 2026 capital projects and uh staff recommends moving forward with the uh uh appropriation of the matching funds.

So move second. Have a motion made by Alderman Ser, seconded by Alderman Johnson to approve the adoption of this resolution. Discussion. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, hi. Sers, I. Clem. Hi. Johnson. Hi. Simmons. I Parker I Stacy I the resolution is adopted 8 to zero. Item number 13 is the adoption of resolution 202649. Could you please read that

resolution approving agreement and plans and specifications as proposed by the state of Illinois Department of Transportation for a joint citystate milling and resurfacing project on FAP Route 561 or Galina Avenue. Manager Buer. Uh thank you your honor. very similar to the last resolution. This is one we need to adopt to accept the design and enable us to move forward with the project with ID do. So, uh staff request moving forward with this resolution uh to approve the design and plan set. So, move second. We have a motion made by Alderman Ser, seconded by Alderman Shadel to adopt resolution 202649. Discussion. Madam clerk, please take the role.

Shadel, I. Sanders. Hi, Sers. Hi, Clem. Hi, Johnson. I Simmons, I Parker, I Stacy, I. The resolution is adopted 8 to Z. And item number 14 is the adoption of resolution 202650. Could you please read this? Resolution in support of retaining municipal housing authority. Manager Boyer.

Thank you, your honor. The uh Illinois Municipal League is one of the organizations that support uh local or local local cities and and towns and represents uh some of their interests at the state capital. Uh recently we became aware of um some legislation that's making its way through um the state at this point that would uh reduce uh local authority for municipal housing. So, uh staff is uh requesting moving forward with this resolution uh essentially um wanting to maintain our current um local control of uh housing. So move

second motion made by Alderman Ser, seconded by Alderman Shadel to for the adoptions resolution discussion. Yes, please. Alderman Clem, [clears throat] explain that a little more if you could please. Uh, as I understand it, the the uh various zoning requirements, so like the spacing between houses, uh, right now we have uh certain uh ordinances that prohibit them from being too close together or too close to the ride ofway for various reasons. Um, this would essentially over overwrite all those local ordinances and it would essentially mean that wherever we u the state wanted certain things done, they they could do that without considering those criteria.

I'm fine. It was a whole different thought. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, hi. Sellers, I. Clem. Hi. Johnson. Hi. Simmons. Hi. Parker. Hi. And Stacy.

No. The resolution is adopted 7 to one. [clears throat] Item number 15 is the adoption of resolution 202651. Could you please read this resolution approving memorandum of understanding between the city of Freeport and the Greater Freeport Partnership regarding street manners along Chicago Avenue. Thank you, Manager Warrior.

Thank you, your honor. uh each every year or so uh greater Freeport Partnership uh has uh funded or received grant funding to put pole banners up on the street lights in in main downtown. Um you know, this brightens up the uh business district. It uh you know, it really provides a lot of uh um it adds to the atmosphere of downtown and improves it. Um this year, uh Greater Free Partnership has secured some grant funding and they need a resolution from the council, uh outlining the agreement with the city that will hang the banners. Um if they are damaged, we'll replace the banners. Uh in our past experience, we have really had not a whole lot of issues. Every once in a while, a banner arm will break or uh a banner will come loose and we have to go up and fix it. But in the big picture, it hasn't really been much of an issue. So staff um recommends approving the resolution with greater Freeport Partnership related to the uh downtown uh streetlight banners.

So move second. Have a motion made by alderman sellers, seconded by alderman shadel for the adoption of the resolution. Discussion. [clears throat] Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, hi. Sers, I. Plem, I. Johnson, I. Simmons, hi. Parker I Stacy no. The resolution is adopted 7 to one. Item 16 is the adoption of resolution 202652. Could you please read this resolution approving a memorandum of understanding between the city of Freeport and Freeport Arts Center regarding sculpture walk. Thank you manager Ber.

Uh thank you your honor. Uh we uh we're presenting this tonight as sort of a back conversation an ongoing conversation with the Freeport Arts Museum. Uh we had anou last year for the sculpture walk on Chicago from uh Douglas to um uh Jackson. Sorry, Jefferson. Anyway,

sorry. Anyway, um [laughter] my my my apologies. Um anyway, the uhou essentially outlines various responsibilities and there's some changes in the language that was requested. Uh also it it calls out the cultural commission instead of the arts museum as the overall decider on the art the the various sculptures that are placed and also uh we clarified some language um to prohibit obscene um sculptures as well as providing a $5,000 um payment to the uh um art museum to help offset some of the $10,000 of costs that they have in uh in terms of uh getting these installations done. It's also uh adds uh well it clarifies some responsibility as far as the public works department in terms of helping with installations and working with artists to get their sculptures uh installed. So staff recommends moving forward with this uh um resolution adopting this memorandum of understanding.

So move second motion made by alderman sellers seconded by alderman Shadel. Discussion on the resolution. Olman Johnson,

I have a couple of questions. Um, will there be different sculptures this fall? I know that, uh, the idea was that some of them would get sold and we'd get different ones. And, um, is there any funding that the museum gets or the arts commission gets with this whole endeavor as far as the sculptures being put there and so forth? And exactly what is the $5,000 going to be used for? Are they going to like let us know what they're using it for or they can use it for whatever they want regarding the sculptures? So, those are my questions. Um, do you want to answer? Um,

the the $5,000 is an offset. Last year, they spent $10,000 in order to do what they needed to in order to to solicit the um the artists and paying them to rent the the pieces for a year. And so with the different costs that they incurred, they spent 10,000. So they were asking for us to help them with the 50% on that because actually it's not it's not the art museum that is making those decisions. It's the art and culture commission. And so this way, you know, that's a commission that is set in place by the city. So for the city to have some buy in. And I forgot what your first question was.

It was, are there going to be different um sculptures? Are they going to be the same or are these sold? No. every every year the intent is to change those seven I believe sculptures that are down there and then if they if someone does decide that they want to purchase any of those sculptures I believe they get a 10% commission but I'm not positive of the amount and yes then it goes back to the art museum for the purpose of you know they invested $10,000 yeah I thought there was I guess

sure I thought there was some kind of commission or some kind of money that was supposed to come in from these and so really they're the ones took all the risk. Um, you know, to say that they'll get even a dollar back, you don't know. So, will they get 10? Highly unlikely, but I suppose there is. Was it 1,500 for each sculpture to rent them? I don't thought it was,000 or 15. Joey, do you know I know you've got a I think it's in between a,000 and,500. I think it depends on the sculpture. The sculpture. Yeah. Manager word, did you have something to add? Thank you. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel,

hi. Sanders, no. Sellers, hi. Clem. Hi. Johnson. No. Simmons. I'm Would you like me to come back to you, Parker? Hi,

Stacy. No. Back to Simmons. No, it's currently tied four to four. Mayor, what say you? I. And the resolution [clears throat] is adopted 5 to four. Item number 17 is the adoption of resolution 202656. Could you please read this? Resolution approving a design and permitting engineering agreement with Fair Graham for the replacement of water mane on Cottonwood from North Foley Avenue to North Apple Avenue. Manager Boyer.

Uh thank you, your honor. Um exactly a week ago today, we had a large water mane break on Cottonwood. The uh size of the hole was approximately 42 in in length and about 12 in tall, elliptical in shape. uh it was such a large hole that it uh posed a severe uh issue for the water system upon happening. It uh drained both towers very quickly and put the city into a townwide boil order. Um as we kind of pursue and move forward with the construction projects, we can't always know what it is at the budget time period to know exactly what we need to do to um emergent issues. Uh I believe that cottonwood and is an emergent issue. We need to replace this water mane and in further research I think we came up with like about 15 different occurrences of water mane breaks. It is a known poor quality spuncast pipe in the era of pipe that we have the most problems with and in a section of town that can drain both these water towers at rapidly. Um it presents uh a real concern to public safety and and health. So uh staff recommends moving forward with a uh uh engineering agreement with Fair Graham to uh put together a plan for placing that water man uh to the termini we discussed uh apple to Foley and that'll remove the uh the water man of concern. So staff recommends moving forward with this uh approval of this u um project.

Motion to approve. Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Johnson to adopt resolution 202653. Discussion. Alderman Stacy. I don't have a problem with the water man [laughter] needing to be replaced. I believe that it's old just like everything around here is. However, with all the other water manes and designs and everything that fair have done, what makes this one 88,000 350?

Director Stagel. Sure. Um, this one is rather complicated on uh cottonwood. There's actually two different water manes that run on cottonwood along with many utilities. Um, it's going to be a very uh hard place to design and we also have to [snorts] cross West Street with it. So, that's going to require boring. Um and uh um this project uh I will tell you the design here the design cost the topography cost is about 8% of construction. This is likely a million dollar project uh to replace the main on this 20 it's about 2150 ft.

Um and it's going to retake by the time we dig trenches for this. It's going to you know be replacement from curb to curb as well for the street. Alderman um Sanders, uh

what precipitated this survey to make this uh evaluation of the water man and the historical uh issue with the water man? Uh is that [clears throat] is that an outdated water man? And uh is there a reason why we have to replace the water man across the main highway? Is there a reason why we have to do that? Uh is it because of uh where is it going? Where is it being connected to? And is it replacing an old existing water man? Manager Boyer.

Um absolutely. So the water man is uh 1959 but more importantly less less important is the age more important is the construction method of the water man. It is spuncast. Uh we have a history of breaks. Um, it also has a severity issue that when we when we had that break, it took both water towers from nearly full to nearly empty. So, because it pro it a is old, b it demonstrated its past failures and c it represents a clear health issue for the city of Freeport in terms of um providing uh safe water to the city. Uh I I believe that that's incumbent upon us to get that replaced. Okay. So,

Arman Sanders, um, where's the destination of this connection going to be? I believe it was Apple to Foley. What? Apple and Foley. Uh, Apple Street to Foley. Yes. It's about five and a half blocks. Okay. So, we're removing the the the bad part of it. Alderman Clen, well, just a question. due to the fact that it drained both towers. Will there be any kind of redesign to prevent that or is this going to be the same result when we get to I know the problems that the spine

Yeah. So, this is a main transition line that moves water across the city. Um and so there'll always be the potential for issues here. That's why we don't want to just replace a small section here and we want to replace all of it. Um there's a lot of pressure. Cottonwood is a a low-lying area uh compared to our towers and this is a main direct hub of water moving from the east side to the west side of town and then west side to east side. That's why we don't want to leave any sections here undone. That's why we want to continue this one to go through West Street because otherwise we're just going to leave a a weak link under that street. Um but IDOT presents challenges. They don't allow us to open cut roadways. we have to bore under them and there's significant requirements with that.

Okay. Thank you. I appreciate it. Alderman Stacy, how long of a process is this? So, the design process uh is probably going to take uh four months. Um I mean, we'll try to accelerate it the best we can. Uh but there's a there's a three threemonth permitting window that it takes just to get the um material the the EPA permit. So uh this would not be a project that would be pulled off till late this year or early in the spring at the earliest late this year. You say

it it's possibly this could be a late fall bid um to to get the water man replaced. Um, I mean that'd be the best time time frame acceptable. It's not this this is a very large main in Freeport. Um, I believe our biggest water man is 16inch main and this is 12. So this is this flows quite a bit of water. And to Rob's point, we lost uh I don't know how many people saw the pictures there, but we lost about a million and a half to two million gallons of water in about 15 to 20 minutes from this break. So, it was it's a significant main. It's in a low-lying area and we have to thank the police department because they helped us find it along with many of the emergency calls that we found. U the new eye hydrants helped. But this just shows the uh the importance of water and the disruption that was made from that one day. Most of our smaller mains don't have the effect. we can get them shut down into small areas. But this trans transmitting water from one side to the other side of town is super important to keep our systems fluctuating. And um I believe Rob asked me to look and I believe we have a total of 137 miles of water mane within the system. We have about 70 miles of the spuncast uh product that's within our system. And so what happens is um and you're going to hate this, but it's a band-aid. We fix one section, it's going to go to the next week's spot. And when we fix that section, it's going to go to the next week's spot. We have been very, very good and very targeted replacing water manes in Freeporter over the last 5 years, getting a lot of these weak links out of the system. And as you guys have seen, we haven't had very main very many water main breaks like we we used to have. You know, it would be nothing to have four or five a week. Uh we went for a long period without even having four

or five in a in a year uh recently. So, um we're getting the weak links out. But as we do that, the larger transmission mains are going to be identified more because there's more heavy pressure getting put on them because the other P pipes are much solid. the PVC pipe that we're replacing it with, they they believe it's a 50-year life, but I will tell you that, you know, um it's probably more like 80 to 100year life uh in comparison. Thank you. [gasps] There's no further discussion. Armen,

is this the only is this the only um area in Freeport that has this type of uh problem or is there another area that might get something like this again or is this the only area that has that type of stuff you were saying like lowline and old pipes and 12 in versus the 14 or whatever?

It's not the only area of town. Um uh you know we're we're chasing grants and other items to change more water man. There's there's uh significant areas of town still that have old water man. I know Rob and I had recently talked uh fourth ward um down by the Galina McDonald's. A lot of those streets that run uh north and south there are very aged, have the same type of material and are going to need to be addressed. And and again we're having water mane issues. The difference between it is this one really had the unknown capability to affect so much of Freeport all at once. It generally doesn't happen that quickly.

Thank you. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I Sanders. Hi. Sers. Hi. Plum. Hi. Johnson. Hi. Simmons. Hi. Parker. Hi. and Stacy I. The resolution is adopted 8 to zero. And item number 18 is the adoption of resolution 202654. Could you please read this resolution for allocation of matching funds for Lincoln Boulevard STU project?

Manager Ber. Uh thank you, your honor. Um let me first start out by saying I'm very grateful that ID do has decided to bid uh some of our FAU routes this year and get them resurfaced. The challenge is we found out about these um plans after January after the budget had already been approved. So that gets to this which is ID do is ready to move forward with a uh um a mill and overlay of Lincoln Boulevard from Locust to West Street and probably next year from West Street to oh probably Harvey. However, the challenge is we did not outright budget for the $80,000 match in the 2026 budget. So, staff is going to be asking for the $80,000 match. However, we will be taking that match money from the fund reserve, which uh we have uh developed a bit of a fund reserve at this time and uh that will not depleted or have a significant impact on it. Uh but staff would uh request that council approve this resolution for the 20% match for the Lincoln uh Locust to West uh street reconstruction with IDOT.

So move second. We have a motion made by Alderman Ser, seconded by Alderman Shadel. Discussion on the resolution. Darren. Yeah, I just wanted to point out 18,1 19, 20, and 21. We approved these uh at the last council meeting the to appropriate the funds. These are just the ID do formal documents that we have to supply to them to move these out to bid. Thanks, sir. Madam clerk, please take the role. Could I Oh, yes, sure.

What would be the 20% match? Uh the total is $80,000. So 20% of that or $80,000? No, the total is $80,000. That is our 20%. [snorts]

Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, hi. Sanders, hi. Sers, Imm. Johnson, hi. Simmons, hi. Parker, I and Stacy, I. The resolution is adopted 8 to zero. Item number 19 is the adoption of resolution 202655. Could you please read this resolution for allocation of matching funds for Adams Avenue STU project? Manager Ber.

Uh thank you honor again. So this this project is from on Adam Street from float to main. So, as you'll recall when we did Adam Street, we got to float and then we had water main replacement where we replaced the pavement on the east side of the road but not the west. Uh, this project is also an STU route for ID dot and our matching funds would be $140,000 and that would complete the Adams project from float to Main Street. Staff recommends moving forward with uh this from fund reserve. So move. Second.

Motion made by alderman seller. Seconded by Alderman Shadel. Discussion on the resolution. Madame clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, hi. Sers, I. Clem, I. Johnson, I. Simmons, I. Parker, I. And Stacy, I. The resolution is adopted 8 to zero. Item number 20 is the adoption of resolution 202656. Could you please read this resolution for allocation of matching funds for Stevenson Street STU project? Manager Boyer.

Thank you, your honor. Again, same story, different street. Um, Stevenson Street is an FAU route from uh Locust to Park Boulevard and uh IDOT will be uh resurfacing that and our match is $200,000. staff recommend uh staff recommends moving forward with the appropriation of 200,000 for the uh reconstruction or the repaving of Stevenson Street. So move second. Have a motion made by Alderman Seller, seconded by Alderman Johnson for the adoption of resolution 202656. Discussion. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel. Hi. Sanders. Hi. Sers. Hi. Clem.

Hi. Johnson. I Simmons I Parker I and Stacy I the resolution is adopted 8 to zero. And item number 21 is the adoption for resolution 202656. Could you please read this resolution for allocation of matching funds for Walnut Avenue STU project? Manager Ber. Uh thank you your honor. Uh this is the last one of this type and um it is for Walnut Avenue from South Street to Empire. Um the match is 140,000 and staff request um council approval of this resolution um allocating 140,000 for the match money for the ID. FAU reconstruction or repaving.

So move second be a motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadel. Discussion. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I. Sanders, I. Sers, I. Clem. I. Johnson I Simmons I Parker I and Stacy I [clears throat] the resolution is adopted 8 to zero item 22 approval of bid could you please read a bid opening on April 14th 2026 was held for South Street ADA ramps and storm improvement

manager Ber uh thank you honor we had a uh bid opening on April 14th um related to the south street re uh repaving project so obviously this is led by I do, but there is uh uh uh accessibility ramps that need to be replaced in the corridor, and our agreement with ID do was we'll handle the ramps if they'll handle everything else uh or most everything else. I think there's a traffic signal or something in here we got to deal with. However, uh we we bid this. We had three uh bids. Uh Fisher Excavating, uh Helm Group, and Kelsey Excavating. Um the uh you'll notice the bid uh tab is well uh we have a summary here. We'll have to uh get back with a bid tab on that. But Fiser was the

you know there we go. Um anyway, Fisher Excavating was the uh lowest responsive bidder at 382,86560 and staff recommends moving forward with uh Fiser Excavating. Motion approve. Second. Motion made by Alderman Clem, seconded by Alderman Sers. Discussion on the bid. Alderman Shadel, I just want to throw out that Helm's bid was 397743 and Kelsey was 476 357.6.

Thank you. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, I Sanders. Hi. Sellers. Hi, Clem. Hi, Johnson. Hi, Simmons. Hi, Parker. Hi, and Stacy. Hi. Uh, the motion is approved 8 to zero. [clears throat] And it item number 23 is another bid. Could you please read? Um, also on April 14th, 2026, uh, Galina Avenue storm improvements. Manager Ber.

Okay. Similar to the last one, uh this is for additional work for the storm water um system on Galina Avenue which is getting uh repaved from Clark to Park. Um there is um we were able to receive three bids for the the storm water work. Um the three responsive biders were Fisher Excavating, Helm Group, and Kelsey Excavating. Uh Kelsey Excavating was the lowest responsive bidder at $241,040. Uh the other bids came in at uh Fiser came in at 243,418 and Helm came in at $258,913.50. Staff recommends moving forward with the Kelsey as the lowest bidder.

So move. Second. A motion made by Alderman Sellers, seconded by Alderman Shadel. Um, Alderman Sanders something. Uh, the rightway or the path of connections. I mean, from uh, you say Galina to Clark, not Galina to Clark. Ar Clark. Arc to Clark. Uh, Clark Street goes all the way to Park Street. Um, Alderman Sanders, Galina from Clark to Park.

That's what that's what I'm That's what I thought. I Yes. No, I that right the first time. Uh, the rightway. What kind of rightaway are we using to avoid uh shutting that main highway down? What are we doing there? Well, that actually ID dot's going to be managing all the traffic control there. So, essentially we're just shut the highway down is what? No. No. Uhuh. They'll probably reduce it to two lanes and then do one side and then reduce it, you know, do the other side. Existing storm that

Yeah, we have we have existing storm water infrastructure that needs to be replaced. Um so that when the project is done, we won't have any issues in the future with it. All right. Thank you. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel. Hi. Sanders. Hi. Sellers is absent. Clem. Hi. Johnson. Hi. Simmons. I. Parker. I. And Stacy. I. The motion is approved. 7 to zero. And item 24. Another bid. Could you please read? Also on April 14th, Galina Avenue manhole lining for 2026. Manager Buer.

Thank you, your honor. Uh again uh we are moving forward with manhole lining. So uh that is primarily on Galina. Uh we had one responsive bidder for the manhole lining project and that was 106,590 uh dollars. So uh staff recommends moving forward with advanced rehab advanced rehabilitation technology uh for the manhole lining on Galina. Thank you. Is there a motion to approve? So move.

Second. Okay. Motion made by Alderman Shadel, seconded by Alderman Parker. Discussion. Alderman Sanders. Um, what what was the location again on that uh uh installation? So, this is the same project. So Galina from Clark to Park, there's a number of manholes that are brick and we're going to line those before we, you know, resurface Galina. So we don't want those caving in while we're doing the work out there. So we're going to line those first.

Are you concerned about the depth of the one that's located on uh we we're not talking we're talking storm still right now? No, we're talking about sewer. Sanitary sewer. Yes. Are we concerned about the depth of that sanitary sewer located on Galina and uh what's that Galina and West? [cough] It goes south, right? It's going south to Clark. I I won't say that we're terribly concerned about it. However, it's a consideration that we need to keep in mind. Oh, okay. Madam clerk, please take the role. Shadel, hi. Sanders. Sellers. Hi, Clem. Hi, Johnson. Hi,

Simmons. Hi, Parker. I Stacy, I. The motion passes 8 to zero. Reports of department heads finance. Yes. Uh, nothing this evening. Thank you. Community development, public works. Public works. Nothing.

Fire. Yes, your honor. I just wanted to uh remind everybody last week was uh telecommunicators week. So the dispatchers for the city and the county. Um last week they got a workout uh with the storms in Pearl City and in Lena. Um obviously what we had in Freeport was nothing compared to that. Um but on Tuesday during the the Pearl City storm, we ended up with 14 calls in two hours. So um that's just an example of of the good work that they do. police.

Yes, I do have something, your honor. Thank you for taking the time to be here and for continuing to stay engaged in the safety and well-being of our community. Policing today is not what it was decades ago. It has evolved and it must continue to evolve. Modern policing is rooted not only in enforcement, but in service, accountability, and partnership. I ask this of all of you and those that are watching. Would you want the practice of medicine, the use of surgical techniques being prescribed medications and the continuous learning of it from 30 years ago [clears throat] for you or your families in 2026? Or would you rather have the modern practice of medicine evolve to better assess a medical problem? If you said no to the first question, then why is this answer not expected for policing to be in modern times? One of the most significant changes in modern policing is the use of technology from bodywn cameras and real-time data systems to crime mapping and analysis. It also allows us to make better decisions, allocate resources more strategically, and document our actions with greater accuracy. But with advancement that comes responsibility. Technology is not only as good as the people who use it, understand it, dissect it, and train it to ensure it is used ethically, lawfully, and in a way that strengthens policing strategies. As a chief of police of the Freeport Police Department, my professional experience, as all of you have foyed, in technology and data integrity has been rooted in large organizations, academia, and working with programmers. This is the same experience I am bringing to Freeport. It is not good business to practice, to be rushed, to throw something out there because one believes that they need it. A chief who is knowledgeable

in these tools can foster a culture of responsibility and continuous improvement where data is used not only to measure performance but to uphold fairness and professionalism. In this way, data and technology are not just operational tools. They are critical components in preserving the integrity and legitimacy of the police department. Modern policing relies heavily on accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting that will guide decision-making and ensure transparency. failing to properly train my officers, not defining the lines of code, and allowing tech companies to run our systems without proper oversight before public release can lead to serious consequences. I have identified those issues. I repeat, I have identified those issues and we are working with programmers now and we have been training our office properly to ensure that previous history does not repeat itself. Responsible data management requires careful validation, redaction and context to ensure that it is shared in an accurate, lawful and respectful manner. To my last point, publicly weaponizing the suicide of a young child for political gain is deeply unethical because it exploits a profound personal tragedy for purposes that have nothing to do with honoring the life lost or supporting those affected. Such actions disregard the dignity of that child and the grief of their family. For those who have turned this moment into political fodder, a tool for community division and for the personal, professional, unprofessional advancement is an example of shameful actions. It shifts the focus away from the meaningful conversations about

prevention, mental health, support, and community healing. Instead, what you did is placed that family and the surviving siblings at risk of inflaming emotions in a way that is neither constructive nor respectful. Beyond the moral concerns, this behavior roads public trust in your comments. When strategies are used, political leverage is signaled to the community that human suffering can be reduced to talking points which can create cynicism and deepens division. Responsible rel leadership requires restraint, empathy and a commitment to addressing sensitive issues with care and integrity. As of my department and is this department and is this council and with the assistance of several churches, we extended our support to that family for the reason of moral code and not for theatrical fodder or public consumption. We focused on solutions, education, and support rather than political hits on a web page. Finally, none of this without strong social intelligence can be done. Policing is at its core about people. Leadership at its core requires empathy, communication, cultural awareness, and the ability to to understand the diverse perspectives within our community. Leadership is not a noun. It is a verb. In practice, social intelligence allows individuals to navigate complex interactions, resolve conflicts, and foster trust. A social intelligent person adjusts their approach based on the situation and builds positive relationships relationships by responding appropriately and respectfully. Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your continued support.

Thank you, library.

Yes. Uh, I promised I would save it for my report. So, uh, I just wanted to thank everybody who has supported the library and continues to. I hope to see all of you there at some point. You can come find me in my office. My door is always open. But I would also like to remind you of some of the things that we do at the library because we are more than just books. We do have those normal things, books, copying, scanning, faxing. We also have ebooks, e audio books, and streaming options. all things that are used by all of us and they're all available for free. We do not charge you. We also offer homebound services. Notary republic, notary services, excuse me, one-on-one technology and computer literacy appointments. Please make those appointments on the fly is not super great. I have very limited staff to do that. We also have multiple meeting rooms of varying sizes that you, the public, and other organizations are welcome to use at any time. You can request them ahead of time. You can usually stop in and get one of them if you want to or need to. Some of them hold as few as two people, but some hold as many as 15. We have multiple story times, homeschool events, and crafts for children. We've created and are growing a teen space and events just for teenagers. So, please, if you have teenagers, send them to the library. We also have summer reading for all ages. It is not just for children. And I encourage all of you to be there this summer. And thank you.

Thank you. It Manager Boyer.

Uh, thank you, your honor. I just have two short things. Um, the first one is Arbor Day is at 9:30 at Crate Park, not 10. So, uh, just a point of correction there. Uh at so uh please hope to see you there. As well as we're very proud of our forestry crew. Uh we had a pretty substantial uh issue at Inolina. Um we had great first responders. Uh we had fire and police also help and assist. Um but uh one thing that uh came clear was we had a lot of down trees and it was uh quite something to see our uh very competent and highly professional forestry crew uh taking those trees down, removing them and getting the the ride ofways opened up and uh and have the trees removed. So I just wanted to specifically thank them for their efforts. Thank you.

Um I just wanted to share one quick thing that I learned today. Um the 2027 appropriation with um our Congress is in the stages, the first stage of picking what their projects are and then the next stage with the then passing for then checks to be written in 27. Um when I went to DC in March, I met with our congressman. I told him about the airport project and how it's connected with economic development and tourism and workforce and there's so many pieces to that. I told him that we probably had a project that was about $7 million. So, I asked him if he would consider $3.5 million in that. Darren's team submitted uh the the project in paper. I asked him in person. Uh asked him if he could help us for three million. We received word today that he has put forward 4 and a.5 million for us. So yes, so we thank Congressman Florenson for that. It's just the first step uh in in the process, but we're making progress in that. And so if it passes the House and the Senate, then should be next year we should get a check for 4.5 million. So uh that concludes my portion. Alderman Shadel,

I have nothing tonight. Alderman Sanders got one question I wanted to uh present it to the librarian. Yes, director. Uh we are international connection with uh other libraries around the world. Yes, you can get something from technically all over the world. Um, I have to admit you're not likely going to want to pay the postage for something that comes from New Zealand. No, but you can get it. But do [laughter] we have access to public library? Mhm. In other international uh uh areas where we can uh

Yes, we can observe and read via internet online. Uh far as uh library connections, is that available? um you're limited to whatever online resources we already have, which is um mostly books. Digital collections and digital libraries are difficult right now. There's a lot of [clears throat] um hopeful changes coming at least in the state of Illinois, but not it's not common across the globe yet. Okay. So, um you can get a physical item from anywhere in the world, again, pending postage. Yeah.

Um but yes, and we do have access to anything here in the United States as well. Okay. Thank you, Alderman Sellers. Yes. I just want to say um thank you to all the city workers that went out and helped um Lena. And then I also want to say that I'm just really uh happy to hear of the good news with the 4.5 million and just all the good things that we have planned for this summer to get going on. That's it. Alman Clem,

I'd just like to thank everybody that responded, especially, needless to say, our first responders, but also so many of the business partners uh from Northern Illinois that helped out not only at the Pearl City deal, but at the the Lena. Uh many companies uh came together to do roofing projects, to remove trees, do a lots of lots of projects for the people. I guess I'd say to you one thing is keep in mind as you go through these repairs that are coming up that you try to pick local people that are honest that are going to be here to take care of your stuff. Uh and also a great big shout out to Kameed. Uh not only were they working in Pearl City, they were working in Lena, they were putting in poles on Upper Empire Street all at the same time. So you can imagine the size of the crew they had. And uh I talked to George Garp and as he told me he talked to the people in Chicago and they absolutely can't believe uh how well everybody came together to help with everything going on to Lena. So being an old codger that can't do that much I shout out to all you guys that really did a bunch of stuff and were really involved in the process.

Alderman Johnson. Um yeah um continued prayers for all the people in Lena and Pearl City Pearl City and all the others that lost um houses and things. I'm very thankful that no lives were lost that I mean you can replace houses but you can't replace lives and thankful for all of our crew that went and and helped out as well. Um and if anyone anyone wants to or uh would like to give any finances, you can send it to Beloved Church in um in Lena because they have an ear market for the um people that are suffering from losses in that city. Um also I just want to thank I do DOT for giving us money for all of our road projects and for all of you. I know Darren and and Rob and many of you have worked diligently with I do DOT to get what we have gotten. So, I'm just really grateful for what we've gotten and the amount of roads that we're going to be able to do because of it. It it'll improve our city and improve travel and it'll be great. So, thank you all.

Alderman Simmons. No, I don't have anything. Thank you. Alderman Parker. Only to repeat what Tom Cle said. He said it enough so I don't need to repeat it. Thank you. Alderman Stacy. Yes. Neighborhood watch third Tuesday of every month. So, tomorrow 6:00 um the 21st fifth board neighborhood watch item 29 is public comment.

3 minutes. [snorts] Good evening. Long time no see, gang. Um, excuse my appearance. I've been doing yard work. I had no intention of coming in here tonight. Um, but then I had to. Um, last Thursday, uh, I emailed two members of this council after one of your constituents reached out to me with a serious concern. While working delivering for Door Dash to support herself and her family, she entered into an elevator at the Super Eight on Slezer Home Road and saw that its inspection had expired in August of 2024. That's in here in a couple months. that'll be 3 years ago. Um, there's not a single person in this room who doesn't understand how serious that is. But that is not why I'm here tonight because I'm I'm here forget this. Um, I'm here because I didn't get one response to that. If anybody thinks that I went into the Super Eight to go look at a a hotel inspection sign, you've lost it. That's that's not me. I emailed two alder people. one whose war that is and another one to see if you guys would do it because your constituents came to me, emailed Fighting for Freeport. Hey, this is what's going on. Can you handle it? Why are they coming to me? Why are they coming to Fighting for Freeport? Because you guys don't answer emails. That simple. I would I am trust me after two years of this, I am sick of myself. I know you guys are tired of me, but and you know and and I'm the first one to go, you know, to talk bad maybe about you, Jodie Miller, Rob Ber, it is not them. It is it is this council. If they're doing something I don't like or the constituents don't like, that's not on them. That's on you guys. You guys allow it to happen.

You guys don't return calls. You guys don't return emails. So, what does it do? It it produces an environment where something like fighting for Freeport is needed. I have much better things to do with my time than worrying about an elevator inspection thing. So I pass it on to the people that are supposed to do that, right? Send it to your alderman. That is all the people want. Then we wouldn't have to, you know, Debbie and I was going to email you this and, you know, let you do it, but I was like, you know, I'll just come in. You had put you through enough. they we wouldn't have to hire uh foyer request officers and all this kind of stuff if you guys would just communicate with us. This is not on Mayor Miller. It's not on Rob Buer. It's on you guys. It was a simple email 4 days ago and all you had to do was, "Oh, thanks for letting us know. I'll I'll call Rob about it." It would have been that simple. And we're not doing that. And I don't know why. If it's because you don't like me, fine. Get over it because you know I still pay taxes here. Okay. Thank you.

Anyone else? Tommy, [clears throat] I want to thank uh thank you about the how it's gone and stuff. You're welcome, Tommy. I think we're all excited to see what what develops in that location. And Darren, what about the that that um what's the Queen? Oh, they're coming down. Slow but sure. They're working from the alley side. So, just being careful that we don't create more damage. And Jonie Miller, you do a good job.

We don't care what they say you cuz you not you different. And Stacy, you that woman does a good job being police chief and sleepboard. [snorts] Any other public comments this evening? That will move us to executive session. Madam clerk, could you please read this? Yes. When I'm done writing, uh, we'll be entering executive session tonight only pursuant to 5ilcs 122 C2, collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees or their representatives or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees. Is there a motion to enter into executive? So move.

Second. We have a motion made by Alderman Ser, seconded by Alderman Shadel. All those in favor signify by saying I. I. It's a roll call. You want roll call? Okay, roll call. Uh, Shadel, hi. Sanders is absent. Sellers, hi. Clem, hi. Johnson, hi. Uh, Simmons, hi. Parker, hi. Stacy, I sell is right there. I mean, Sanders is Sanders, are you in favor of entering close session? What's your vote? I'll mark you I'll mark you as yes. Thank you. Do the motion.