Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008
Minutes of a regular City Council Meeting held in the Council Chambers of City Hall, Lincoln, IL, on Tuesday, January 22, 2008.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman called the regular City Council Meeting to order at 7:16 p.m. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the roll. There were ten Aldermen present (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs) and none absent.
Those present recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Alderman Tibbs.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman called for the Presentation of the Minutes:
Alderman Prather made a motion to approve the Regular City Council Meeting Minutes of January 7, 2008 and Alderman Anderson seconded it. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked for the Presentation of Petitions:
Petition from the Railsplitter Antique Auto Club for monthly Cruise-ins from April - September, 2008
Alderman Horn said I move to approve the Petition by the Railsplitter Antique Auto Club on their condition of their renewal of their insurance in March and Alderman Neitzel seconded it. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Mr. Loeffler I would like to thank you and your group they have been entertaining these last several years and really been a nice asset downtown so thank you for taking your time for that.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked for the Presentation of Communications:
City Clerk Ms. Riggs said there were no Communications to come before the City Council.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked for the Presentation of Bids:
Bids for the South Plant Force Main Replacement
Alderman Neitzel said I make a motion to accept the bid of $180,765.00 with Denton Gunther Underground Inc. for the south plant and force main and Alderman Busby seconded it. Alderman Neitzel said just for the information that we're on the air tonight the original bid was $378,000.00 and we've accepted the bid for $180,000.00 so we are here to see quite a savings on this project.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 2
Bids for the South Plant Force Main Replacement
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I did have a question for our City Engineer and maybe you have the answer to the question or someone does. I was asked we have someone notice that we had Mr. Pisula here from Donohue and Associates and then I see that we got that statement from him. Is he subcontracting with us or is he providing us with consulting work or how did he get involved I mean? Is he going to be doing the project?
Mr. Mathon said he has utilized Donohue Engineering for the wastewater treatment upgrade and for this project for the last lift station work that was performed. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said they drew the plans up and that kind of thing or how is that. Mr. Mathon said correct, yes. Alderman Neitzel said and reviewed all the bids. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I didn't know how that all went. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the Roll Call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
Bids for 2008 F-150 Pick-up for the Sewerage Treatment Plant
Alderman Neitzel made a motion to reject all bids and accept the state bid of $19,222.00 and Alderman Busby seconded it. Alderman Neitzel said I just wanted it noted that in review of the amounts that were submitted one of the bids of $21,949.00 from Graue would have been considered however his work his documentation was not submitted correctly therefore we were unable to accept his bid. Alderman Neitzel said I want to say one more thing the next lowest bid would have been, would have cost us $2,900.00 over the state bid, therefore in view of the bidding system I made the motion of taking the low bid of $19,222.00. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the Roll Call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
The Mayor then asked for the Presentation of Ordinances and Resolutions:
Truancy Ordinance
Alderman Neitzel asked to leave on the table the Truancy Ordinance.
Ordinance Annexing Certain Real Estate to the City of Lincoln, Logan County, Illinois (First Baptist Church of Lincoln)
Alderman Rohlfs asked for the City Clerk to read the Committee's Report. City Clerk Ms. Riggs read the Committee's Report. Alderman Rohlfs made a motion to adopt the Committee's Report and Alderman Huskins seconded it.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 3
Ordinance Annexing Certain Real Estate to the City of Lincoln, Logan County, Illinois (First Baptist Church of Lincoln)
There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried. Alderman Rohlfs said I move to waive the second reading of the Ordinance and to approve it as read last week and Alderman Prather seconded it. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the Roll Call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said gentlemen in the back I should have had you come forward is there anything you'd like to say. Pastor Henderson said we would like to thank the Council for your work in helping us move ahead in our dreams and look forward to more partnership as we continue to minister in Lincoln. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Pastor Henderson thank you.
Ordinance Rezoning Real Estate to C-2 Commercial located in the City of Lincoln, Logan County, Illinois (First Baptist Church of Lincoln)
Alderman Rohlfs asked for the City Clerk to read the Committee's Report. City Clerk Ms. Riggs read the Committee's Report. Alderman Rohlfs said I move to adopt the Committee's Report and Alderman Prather seconded it. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried. Alderman Rohlfs said I move to waive the second reading of the Ordinance and to approve it as read at last week's committee meeting and Alderman Prather seconded it. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the Roll Call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
The Mayor then asked for the Presentation of Claims, Presentations, Reading, Reference and Reports Thereon:
Alderman Prather made a motion by Roll Call to approve: Finance, Policy & Procedure, Streets and Alleys, Sewer Treatment Plant, Sewers & Drainage, Police, Ordinance and Zoning, Sidewalks, Forestry and Lighting, Fire/Water and ESDA, and Grounds, Buildings & Local Improvements Committees' Reports by roll call and Alderman Anderson seconded it. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the Roll Call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
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January 22, 2008; Page 4
Mayor Davis-Kavelman then asked for the Presentation of Official Reports:
City Treasurer Mr. Plotner gave an Oral Report for December 2007.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked for the Presentation of Special Reports:
The written reports by the department heads (Engineering Reports for November and December 2007, Operation’s Report for the Sewerage Treatment Plant for December, 2007, Police Department report for December, 2007 and also for the year 2007, Street Superintendent's Report for December 2007, and Summary of Building Permits for December 2007) are on file.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked for the Presentation of Unfinished Business:
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I did want to mention that we have taken trips before to Washington D.C. and I talked to, to go out there and seek funds. We've always thought it was beneficial to do so but these last couple of years have not because we're seeking money for our Sewerage Treatment Plant operations it stands alone and trying to get a STAG grant. We were told it would be best if we held a meeting here in City Hall or wherever we wanted to meet they will come to us. Now that one of the gentleman is running for President and won't be available to meet with us and did not meet with us the last time. The other gentleman will not be seeking re-election and he won't be available and he wasn't available the last time either and then our other Senator, U. S. Senator we will meet with his staff. At this time we made a decision not to go out there but to have a meeting and we will be holding a meeting and get the information out to the Aldermen on what we will be doing. In lieu I guess of focusing with staying in line with the Open Meetings Act we will have to possibly just have two Aldermen at a time come in or just the Sewer Treatment Plant chair and me and then step out and let the other ones go in so we don't violate the Open Meetings Act. Anyway that was the most feasible best way to do it as far as funding especially when they will not be there so that was what I was advised to do and thought I would pass it on.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked for New Business:
City's Financing of the Logan County Economic Development Partnership
Alderman Prather made a motion to take this item off the table and Alderman Anderson seconded it. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the Roll Call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried. Alderman Prather said I would move to continue the city financing of the Logan County Economic Partnership and to increase this year's obligation by $5,000.00 this could be done by moving the $5,000.00 for the CEDS from 8602 and transferring those funds to line 5413 and Alderman Anderson seconded it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked for him to give those numbers again 8602 what. Alderman Prather said it was 8602 we're transferring those funds to 5413. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said ok so there would be a total of $30,000.00 this year we're going to give the Economic Development. Alderman Prather said yes Mayor. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said ok, is there any discussion Alderman Huskins.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 5
City's Financing of the Logan County Economic Development Partnership
Alderman Huskins said I've just got one quick thing though. I'm all for economic development just like Alderman Prather I've set up here for years I do have a problem with paying someone that does not filled that seat for the last three or four months if you remember just a few years back Alderman Prather I'm sure you are aware of that. I have no problem if you're going to hire somebody and pay them but I do have a problem when you continue paying someone that hasn't been there.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman called on Alderman Prather.
Alderman Prather said thank you, the difference between what happened a few years ago there was no interim person taking the job. Mr. Mark Smith left and there was no one so we went back to them and said until you get someone we were cutting their funding back. This time they did have someone I believe in the spot so that salary has to be paid so it wouldn't be real fair if we didn't pay the money for those periods of months. That's the difference between what happened several years back.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman called on Alderman Rohlfs. Alderman Rohlfs said Alderman Prather I have a question I don't know how much, did he receive the same salary that the director would have received had he been there was that amount the same or less? Alderman Prather said probably more I don't know how many hours he turned in but he was getting $30.00 per hour and I don't think Mr. Orr was making that wage. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I don't think so either. Alderman Rohlfs said so we paid the interim more than we paid. Alderman Prather said I don't know how many hours he turned in. Alderman Rohlfs said I shouldn't say we. Alderman Prather said I don't know what his salary ended up being I don't know how many hours he was paid I wasn't privileged to that information. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Horn or Mr. Plotner you also serve with that committee of Economic Development. Mr. Plotner said I don't think he's spending that kind of time in there he's not doing an eight hour days kind of thing in there and so it would not be equal to the amount that's there but I don't know whether they've managed to get a hold of this guy or not they haven't released anything on it yet on that. Alderman Prather said I think they are kind of waiting on us. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Horn do you have any input on that. Alderman Horn said I think I agree with Mr. Plotner I think he was just working on a part time basis and I think the gentleman just hasn't let them know yet but they've offered him the job but I don't think he's let them know yet that he's accepted it or not. Mayor Davis-Kavelman called on Alderman Rohlfs. Alderman Rohlfs said I guess I could see if we were looking at next year's budget putting $5,000.00 more into someone that we knew was going to be there full time but to do it midstream I guess I'm not sure that I'm understanding the reasoning on that. Alderman Busby said it is because the new individual is asking for a little more than Mr. Orr did and as they say if you're going to pay an individual peanuts you might end up with a monkey. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Rohlfs.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 6
City's Financing of the Logan County Economic Development Partnership
Alderman Rohlfs said it was my understanding that the Logan County Board decided to give then $5,000.00 and we're giving them $5,000.00 so we're going to give the Economic Development Partnership $10,000.00 more and I'm not sure what their fiscal year is but I know when our fiscal year is so we're jumping in within three months of raising that $5,000.00. That's $10,000.00 and to me that's a little bit more than if in fact that is what they are waiting on the county's $5,000.00 and our $5,000.00.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Tibbs.
Alderman Tibbs said thank you Mayor I've sat on Finance a couple of years and I know how we for many, many hours try to stretch things out to get things to work out for us. I don't think I would be in favor of the $5,000.00 right now. I think what we need to do is look at our new fiscal year first coming in then go from that point. Right now we need extra money for the police department, for the fire department, EMC, Street Department and we're more or less letting our people down where we need to be looking at that first I think at this point in time. I would be in favor possibly but I would have to look at that fiscal year first before I would want to increase it another $5,000.00.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Busby.
Alderman Busby said we're not taking any money from the police department or any other department. Alderman Tibbs said oh I know. Alderman Busby said this is in their line item $5,000.00 is already in there and all we're doing is moving it from line to the other no difference than what we're going to be doing tonight for the fire department hopefully if we can find it in our line items. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Huskins. Alderman Prather said this $5,000.00. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I ask Alderman Huskins that's right he had his hand up. Alderman Huskins said go ahead and let Alderman Prather. Alderman Prather said $5,000.00 was budgeted for the partnership but for a different item it's in their line. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said what is the other item? Alderman Prather said CEDS and they are not doing that. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said the CEDS. Alderman Prather said it was already budgeted for that and we were planning on spending it for the partnership. Mayor Davis-Kavelman called on Alderman Huskins.
Alderman Huskins said I understand what Alderman Busby is saying and I understand what Alderman Tibbs said and I understand what Alderman Rohlfs but we're talking about $5,000.00 for the next three months is that the way that I am taking it Alderman Prather. You're going to give them $5,000.00 now and then when our budget comes out in May you're going to give them another $5,000.00.
Alderman Prather said that's the plan.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 7
City's Financing of the Logan County Economic Development Partnership
Alderman Huskins said then I would say I would be against that because I wouldn't mind giving them a third for whatever is left this year for the $5,000.00 because they haven't had anybody there for like the length of time I said. You said they had a guy and it seemed like they had a part time individual so I'm not for giving somebody $5,000.00 from now until May 1.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said me either. Alderman Huskins said sorry but I understand this guy wanting to be hired I understand his wages are going to be higher but that's $10,000.00 we're going to give him within one year. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said um hum. Alderman Huskins said within fifteen months. Alderman Prather said two fiscal years. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said nope. Alderman Huskins said he's not even going to be there for a fiscal year you've got only three months in this fiscal year or four. Alderman Prather said suggestion. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said anyone else Alderman Rohlfs. Alderman Rohlfs asked if we had any kind of accountability and I know this was discussed at committee as far as having some kind of report come back to, to the Council for what they do in their particular meetings. Alderman Prather said they are supposed to we have representatives the Mayor and an Alderman and that's what they are up there for at those meetings to come back and report to us and be accountable. Alderman Rohlfs said but we have to have a meeting first. Alderman Prather said right we have to have the meetings to do it on the Tuesday workshop that's where we're supposed to hear what happened at the last meeting. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Rohlfs. Alderman Rohlfs said is there a dead, a time when the new director is slated to take on the position. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Horn. Alderman Horn said he hasn't accepted the job yet as far as I know. Alderman Rohlfs said so we're kind of voting on an unknown and the person might not start until March 1 and then we're paying. Alderman Horn said as far as I know he is if he accepts the position he will be in the position within two weeks of his acceptance. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said yes Alderman Prather.
Alderman Prather said you all have to understand the city kind of put that partnership into a tail spin when we started talking about not funding it any more and then how are you going to hire somebody unless we make some kind of commitment I mean this is a good faith commitment that we're going to stay with this partnership. They've done a lot of good things I disagreed with some of the things that have been done but all in all you work better as you're grouped together. Not one government is going to do it by itself. If you've got everyone working together it works out better. You've seen that with Sysco. I'm just making a suggestion here I talked to Alderman Busby today and he's been going to those meetings as well and I'm just throwing a suggestion out there but I'd imagine if I was waiting to get hired I'd be waiting to see what we're going to do before I would accept the position if we're not going to fund it I mean.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said well ok I'd like to comment on that Alderman Prather you surprised me because you were the one that came up to me and told me that you thought back several years ago that we didn't pay for when we didn't have someone sitting in that spot. You also told me to ask.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 8
City's Financing of the Logan County Economic Development Partnership
Alderman Prather said we didn't pay for that.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I'm speaking. You also asked to have yourself withdrawn from the committee.
Alderman Prather said yes I did. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said because you didn't like the way they were running things. Alderman Prather said that was correct.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said ok then all of a sudden you have turnabout and then you want to do this. I have no problem with what we're doing with economic development but we have a street truck that is falling apart. We have other things that are falling apart and this economic development group I have been involved with since 2001 and they've always said they were going to do some fundraising and it's not happened and they've stood up at meetings and said among themselves they were going to do some fundraising and I know how difficult it is to do fundraising and to be running things but other groups have had to do it and they have done it you know they have come up with their own money and they have worked hard and they have done it through volunteerism. They do wonderful things and I'm not saying that like I said I've sat on that since 2001 but I think we're putting the cart before the horse and the only reason I brought that up was because you had mentioned that there wasn't funding paid for a full $25,000.00 one year and then we went back and looked in the minutes and saw where one of the partnership members had said that this would just be for two or three years. We're moving into the fourth or fourth and a half year and we're still funding it. We fund all these things and it's wonderful that we fund all these things but like Alderman Tibbs said we do have some other priorities in the community that have to be taken care of. Alderman Busby you surprise me too because you've voted against all things we've tried to do for economic development such as the Goody's, Dollar Tree and all those we've brought forth and now all of a sudden you're pushing this economic development so I mean what's going on here I'd like to know what's going on here. We want to help everybody and we are trying to work together then we get the press that gets in there and everybody turns it all around or upside down and that's not the purpose. We know they do good things but if it hadn't been for the City Council as well as the County Board stepping in and making the motion and approving to do some of these things we wouldn't have gotten it done either. She called on Alderman Busby.
Alderman Busby said Mayor I have to agree with you there I voted against Dollar Tree and Goody's that is the only one I have voted against. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said you didn't vote for the Wal-Mart. Alderman Busby said yes I did. Alderman Rohlfs said he made the motion. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said you made the motion well I do apologize then. Alderman Huskins said he did. Alderman Prather said he voted for Wal-Mart. Alderman Busby said the only one I didn't because of the cost to the city and we're not sure whether they're paying their share or not. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Dollar Tree and Goody's. Alderman Busby said right, we probably never will.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 9
City's Financing of the Logan County Economic Development Partnership
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I don't know but it's sure brought some tax dollars into this community though Alderman Huskins.
Alderman Huskins said as I said you know I've never said anything against the Chamber of Commerce or anything because they have done a lot of as Alderman Prather has put here earlier they have done a lot of behind the scenes for this Council. We all know that so has Economic Development the only thing I'm saying is why can't we just leave it like it is now Alderman Prather $25,000.00 if you've got to raise it $7,500.00 come May 1 let's do that or whatever it takes but I am against giving them $5,000.00 here tonight and then another $5,000.00 come May 1. That's my opinion and I'm not sitting here trying to vote against not hiring somebody but I am sitting here voting against I want to clarify this voting against giving a raise for three months and then give them another $5,000.00.
Alderman Prather said why don't we call the question. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said roll call please. Ms. Riggs called Roll Call. There were five yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, and Alderman Prather), five nays (Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), Mayor Davis-Kavelman voted no to break the tie, and none absent; motion carried. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said she votes no for the reason Alderman Huskins said let's evaluate and see how it goes and for fundraising purposes they were supposed to be self sufficient. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Busby.
Alderman Busby said does that vote mean then that we're not going to fund them. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said no, it just means right now, it means right now. Alderman Prather said that is what we just voted on not to because I made a motion to fund them. Alderman Busby said that was the motion. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said well I voted to take away. Alderman Prather said the motion was to continue funding. Alderman Rohlfs said with a $5,000.00 increase. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said it was a $5,000.00 increase I say no. Alderman Huskins said now you need to make a motion to continue funding. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Rohlfs. Alderman Rohlfs said I think the $5,000.00 is what bothered me the most because we do have three months we don't know for sure when the new person will come in even if they giving the amount that they want a decision for him may be no they would go back to the drawing board again and more interviews or even if they had to take the next person so since we are dealing with an uncertainty here as to an employment date to me it seems as if. Alderman Huskins said you've got to make a motion. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said we have to make a motion ok Alderman Huskins. Alderman Huskins said Mayor I don't know how to word this but I am going to make a motion that we continue going back to hiring this guy at what the funds we have in our account now and I don't know how anybody else feels about that. Alderman Prather said we're not hiring anybody. Alderman Anderson said excuse me we don't say on hiring here. Alderman Huskins said ok. Alderman Horn said continue the support. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said continue support.
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January 22, 2008; Page 10
City's Financing of the Logan County Economic Development Partnership
Alderman Huskins said continue support with what balance we have in the budget or whatever. Alderman Prather said for Logan County Economic Development Partnership. Alderman Huskins said right and I make that my motion. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said ok repeat this again. Alderman Huskins said I will make a motion to, for the Economic Development with what balance we have in our budget to give to Economic Development this fiscal year for the Economic Development of Logan County. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said ok is there a second. Alderman Armbrust seconded it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked if there was any further discussion. Alderman Neitzel asked how much that was. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said well continuing the rest of the $25,000.00. Alderman Neitzel said ok through May or through the end of the year. Alderman Huskins said this fiscal year. Alderman Anderson said end of April. Alderman Armbrust said the balance right. Alderman Huskins said the balance we're going to pay them what is it Alderman Prather $15,000.00. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said whatever's left we pay quarterly. Alderman Prather asked if they had a second. Alderman Busby, Alderman Huskins and Mayor Davis-Kavelman were all speaking at the same time. Alderman Busby said year to date is $12,500.00 so it's half of it and this is a printout as of December 31st. Ms. Riggs said there are no changes. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Prather. Alderman Prather said this is just a motion to continue doing what we're doing whatever the amount is doesn't matter. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said right. Alderman Prather said the idea is that it was brought up to stop financing it this motion is saying that we are not going to stop financing it.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I do want to clarify something. Everyone says that the idea was brought up to stop. The idea was thrown out there and a good leader will always bring up different options and different ways to do something and it was brought up to me by you, Alderman Prather as an option.
Alderman Prather said to stop. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said no, as an option to wonder why we were paying when we didn't have someone sitting in that position so. Alderman Prather said but I didn't say to stop. Mayor Davis-Kavelman and Alderman Tibbs said no. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Rohlfs. Alderman Rohlfs said then to continue my comments am I to assume then if they hire someone we will stay at the $25,000.00 and not up anything until May 1. Alderman Armbrust said budget time yeah. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said until budget time. Alderman Busby said to answer your question unless we bring it up for a vote again. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said correct. Alderman Rohlfs said if someone I guess my question is if someone gets hired and then we see the need then that can be brought to the floor again correct. Alderman Prather said not by me. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said ok any other comments call for the question please. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the Roll Call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 11
Appointment to the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said still we'll leave that on the table.
Budget for Fire Department Repairs/Maintenance - Equipment
Alderman Anderson said as of today with the bills that we just paid there are $462.00 left in the equipment repair line item for the fire department. It's not going to take us very far. We have a $15,000.00 expense coming up which is the tank and labor that has already been it was already budgeted in unfortunately those dollars had to be used for repairs that have already taken place. That takes care of appropriations and there are a good $2,000.00 worth of expenses right now that Assistant Chief Martin has provided me with some estimates on in terms of some tires that are needed, some solenoids, some cut out switches and just numerous things that need to be done and we've got three months left so even with appropriations we need to consider whether we're going to be moving funds from one line item to another. As Assistant Chief Martin pointed out and I had been looking at we do have funds in the line item which is 4012 that would be the Fire Chief's remaining salary for the year which is $18,539.00 and Assistant Chief Martin indicated that on line item 8420 which is schools and training there's $13,493.00 still in that line item and you felt that $5,000.00 could be moved easily from there.
Assistant Chief Martin said $5,000.00 could be moved we still have some schooling to do and some conferences to go to but I think we'll be ok with that.
Alderman Anderson said that would if we choose to do that between what's in appropriations and or not using appropriations however you choose to do this the tank and the labor for the tank on the one truck is going to use up $15,000.00. It's not going to leave us a huge cushion for other repairs and they are doing a phenomenal job of trying to keep repairs to a minimum but there's things that just can't be let go so we need to decide how this week is going to be handled.
Alderman Prather asked if that was a line of its own I can't remember. Alderman Anderson said no we have discussed it yes when we did the budgeting. Alderman Prather said now is that money still there correct. Alderman Anderson said no because it kept getting pushed back and pushed back but now it's getting pretty dire right now. Alderman Prather said $15,000.00 out of the Chief and $5,000.00 out of the other that's $20,000.00 there. Alderman Anderson said yeah we're going to use if we move $20,000.00 we're going to use up $17,000 of that in a hurry. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Huskins. Alderman Huskins said I think she needs to make a motion first unless they want to discuss it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked Alderman Anderson what her pleasure was would you like to make the motion. Alderman Anderson said well um I would make a motion that we move all of the money that is in 4012 salaries appointed which $18,539.73 as well as $5,000.00 from the schools and training line item of 8420 to line item 5202 repairs/maintenance equipment and Alderman Prather seconded it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said that is for a total of how much we moving 18 and 5 so we are moving $23,539.00 correct. Alderman Anderson said correct. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Huskins.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 12
Budget for Fire Department Repairs/Maintenance - Equipment
Alderman Huskins said I just have one question I don't have no problem moving money like she's asking but if we take all the Chiefs money out what are we going to do if we do hire a chief here in the next couple of months or the next month or so. Alderman Anderson said that is a good point. Alderman Huskins said I mean that's my concern because I don't have, no problem but the thing of it is if we take the money out of the chief. Alderman Prather said then we don't hire until May. Alderman Huskins said we don't hire until May and I think we need to fill that to get it back on track the next month or so.
Alderman Anderson said in reality we're accepting applications until the end of February and by the time we do interviews and all it's probably not going to come to the Council until the end of March and you're probably talking about maybe one month. Is that realistic Mayor?
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said right. Alderman Huskins said I understand but even if we do have to leave something in there for that one month when you hire somebody so take it all I say if you took $12,000.00 and leave $6,000.00 I would be in favor of that. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said so leave a portion in there is that what you want to do. Alderman Huskins said right take 2/3rds out and leave 1/3rd in. Alderman Anderson said it won't be enough money. Alderman Huskins said it won't. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Neitzel you asked earlier. Alderman Neitzel said how much do we have in appropriations. Alderman Anderson said $15,000.00. Alderman Neitzel said additional. Alderman Anderson said we have $15,000.00 in appropriations which we have $462.00 left in the budget. Alderman Neitzel said ok. Alderman Anderson said the tank repair with labor and the tank is $15,000.00. Alderman Neitzel said ok. Alderman Anderson said so if we move funds here we would still have appropriations of $15,000.00.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Busby.
Alderman Busby said thank you Mayor. One thing we have definite control over and Assistant Chief Martin we can control schooling right.
Assistant Fire Chief Martin said yes we can control schooling. Alderman Busby said so for the next say 90 days - 120 days there would be no schooling why couldn't we move more of that money and I believe leave $6,000.00 or $8,000.00 in the new chief's salary.
Assistant Fire Chief Martin said we could do that if that's your wish sir I've already made room reservations for a major conference in the month of April. I have already made reservations for rooms for three people and whoever the chief is or the assistant chief is to go to this instructor's conference this is one of the best in the nation. We can cancel that and use that money if you like.
Alderman Anderson said approximately what are we looking at cost wise there.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 13
Budget for Fire Department Repairs/Maintenance - Equipment
Assistant Fire Chief Martin said uh approximately $3,000.00. That's including the classroom training and the meals and the rooms everything.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said we need to hear from the City Clerk please.
Ms. Riggs said I hate to put, you know a damper on all this but you cannot move budget lines above the appropriation amount. She said you have a $15,000.00 gap.
Alderman Prather said that's all you can move.
Ms. Riggs said that's all you can move from one budget line to another you cannot go above the appropriation so I don't know if they've got some other repairs/maintenance lines that we would have some give. I don't know that I did not bring the appropriation up here with me.
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Huskins did you have a comment. Alderman Huskins said I was going to say you know so that we get all the facts we might want to defer this until a couple more weeks what do you think Alderman Prather you are the chairman you're the finance chairman aren't you. Alderman Rohlfs said do we need that repair though I guess is that repair necessary right now. Alderman Anderson said the tank repair do they have the tank. Assistant Fire Chief Martin said yes the tank has been ordered and made we are just waiting for the man to come and do the work it is scheduled for the middle to the last week. Ms. Riggs asked if the tank had been paid for. Assistant Fire Chief Martin said no. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Armbrust said I had no idea that tank was that expensive I talked to the former fire chief constantly about that what were doing and where it was going and it was never brought to my attention it totally surprised that it had a $15,000.00. Assistant Chief Martin said yes sir, I called the man today and talked to him today and he said the tank was $10,000.00 and the labor to put it in and tear the truck apart and fix everything would be $5,000.00 on top of that. Alderman Armbrust said like I said I had no clue and I had some talks with Chief Davis at the time about this because I had followed the vehicle down the street a time or two with the water running there's no question you need a tank I'm not arguing there with you sir it kind of surprised me with the dollar amount. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said we need to speak into the microphone Alderman Huskins please. Alderman Huskins said I've got a question does this tank on the count the truck is getting so old or has it been repaired before or what Assistant Chief Martin. Assistant Fire Chief Martin said a combination of the two. Alderman Huskins said it's not on account of the accident we had prior to.
Assistant Fire Chief Martin said no not in that, no sir. To answer your question on this tank it is to the point where it's getting all the equipment wet inside the truck and the truck is molding in some compartments and is starting to show a little rust wear. The sooner we fix this tank the sooner we can get this truck back in full service.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 14
Budget for Fire Department Repairs/Maintenance - Equipment
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Assistant Chief how old is that vehicle. Assistant Chief Martin said it is a 1994. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said a 1994. Assistant Fire Chief Martin said yes. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said thank you and said Alderman Prather.
Alderman Prather said yes Mayor obviously we can't move more than $15,000.00 and we're going to have to have a meeting to band aid this later but let's get the $15,000.00 moved right now so we've got the tank covered when they bill. I would like to have a fire/finance committee meeting we'll figure something out.
Alderman Anderson said do we want to split that between. Alderman Prather said I would leave $6,000.00 for the fire chief and get the rest from the training. Alderman Anderson said ok so we need a new and Alderman Huskins said motion. Alderman Anderson said motion. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said do you want to withdraw your second and said Alderman Busby. Alderman Busby said you will have to withdraw the motion. Alderman Prather said I would withdraw my second. Alderman Anderson said I will withdraw the motion. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said ok alright. Alderman Anderson said I would further make a motion to transfer $12,000.00 from line item 4012 salaries appointed and $3,000.00 from line item 8420 schools and trainings to line item 5202 repairs/maintenance and equipment and Alderman Prather seconded it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked if there was any further discussion about this issue and asked for Roll Call please. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the roll call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
Approval of Agreement for Fence on City Right-of-Way at 731 Galena
Alderman Armbrust said I move to approve an agreement for fence on city right-of-way at 731 Galena this is contingent upon the agreement to be drawn up by the City Attorney being accepted by the homeowners and Alderman Tibbs seconded it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said any discussion Alderman Armbrust said do you have anything to say. Alderman Armbrust said no comment. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said roll call please. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the roll call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
Approval to hire three officers for the police department, with employment starting 2/14/08
Alderman Horn said I move to approve to hire three new officers for the police department and Alderman Neitzel seconded it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said is there any discussion Alderman Huskins. Alderman Huskins said I asked the question last week and I guess I am going to ask it again is everybody going to be off the payroll by this date.
Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 15
Approval to hire three officers for the police department, with employment starting 2/14/08
Ms. Riggs said yes they are the three officers that are being replaced are off the payroll as of the 15th of this month. Alderman Huskins said 15th of what month. Ms. Riggs said this month. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said so we almost have a whole month of extra money there ok Alderman Prather said does a start date need to be in the motion. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said I would think it should be. Alderman Horn said I would like to amend. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said withdraw your second. Alderman Neitzel said I withdraw my second. Alderman Horn said I would like to amend mine to say I move to approve to hire the three officers for the police department with employment starting on February 14, 2008 and Alderman Neitzel seconded it. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the roll call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
Approval to acquire three vehicles for the police department through lease/purchase process
Alderman Horn said I move to approve to acquire three vehicles for the police department through the lease/purchase process and Alderman Neitzel seconded it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Busby. Alderman Busby said will this lease be drawn up by our city attorney. Police Chief Erlenbush said yes. Alderman Busby said I am questioning whether that should be in the motion or not. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said to be drawn up by our city attorney it could I guess we know how last time. Alderman Busby said it always has been. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said yes it always has been. Alderman Busby said I'll amend the motion to be drawn up as our city attorney sees fit and Alderman Armbrust seconded it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said do we vote on the amendment first or on. Alderman Busby said amendment first. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said Alderman Huskins did you have anything. Alderman Huskins said do the amendment first and then I'll ask a question. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the roll call on the amendment to the motion. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried. Alderman Huskins said I have a question before I vote on the next part do we have a price of what these are going to cost us per year or does anybody have a price. Alderman Huskins said I hate to sit here and vote on something without a price on it. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said that makes sense you have that information. Police Chief Erlenbush said for a crown vic the price right now is $23,300.00 I'd like to buy a four wheel drive vehicle and that would be somewhere in the neighborhood of $27,000.00 and then the third vehicle that I would like to buy would be less than the $23,000.00 it would be an unmarked detective car and I put that in the memo last week and this would be done my understanding from Mr. Bates would be done for a three year period. Alderman Huskins said do you have a price that we are going to pay per year. Police Chief Erlenbush said the numbers I gave you and the figures I have as of this time and it's also my understanding why I work with Mr. Bates. Alderman Huskins said I remember you putting something in there. Police Chief Erlenbush said it's down on the left side. Lincoln, Illinois
January 22, 2008; Page 16
Approval to acquire three vehicles for the police department through lease/purchase process
Mayor Davis-Kavelman said City Clerk. Ms. Riggs said as part of this lease/purchase agreement there is an ordinance passed that is part of the lease which will define what the, how much the lease payments are each year. Alderman Busby said over a three year period. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said the city council would vote on it at that time. Ms. Riggs said Chief Erlenbush hasn't been here. Police Chief Erlenbush said he was just asking for approval to start things. Alderman Huskins said ok but I'm just asking that we get a price before we actually vote on the actual final or lease or whatever. Ms. Riggs said it would be in the ordinance form with the prices available in that with passage of the ordinance. Alderman Huskins said thank you Ms. Riggs. Alderman Busby called for the question. Mayor Davis-Kavelman said roll call please. City Clerk Ms. Riggs called the roll call. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
Alderman Anderson called a Fire and Finance Committee meeting for next Tuesday at 6:30 which would be the 29th.
Alderman Armbrust called a Police and Street Department meeting to discuss the barricading blocking of the streets around Washington Monroe School and we were then expecting to generate letters to the folks in the neighborhood to offer them the opportunity to speak up at that time. That is going to push it back to 6:00 and that is pushing the time to get the working crew in here.
Alderman Busby said what you could do is call a meeting and ask for it to be on the agenda and call a meeting before February 4th meeting. Alderman Armbrust said it is pushing a situation that we'd like to get handled. Alderman Busby said you can't get it voted on until the 4th. Mayor Davis-Kavelman asked if Alderman Anderson would be willing to move her's back a little bit. Alderman Anderson said we could be here at 6:00 p.m. on January 29, 2008. Alderman Armbrust set a meeting on January 29, 2008 at 6:30 p.m.
Alderman Prather made a motion to adjourn the meeting and Alderman Huskins seconded it. There were ten yeas (Alderman Anderson, Alderman Armbrust, Alderman Busby, Alderman Hoinacki, Alderman Horn, Alderman Huskins, Alderman Neitzel, Alderman Prather, Alderman Rohlfs, and Alderman Tibbs), zero nays, and none absent; motion carried.
The City Council Meeting was adjourned at 8:19 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted By:
Risa Riggs
Minutes approved by City Council as recorded in this document on February 29, 2008
Melanie J. Riggs
City Clerk
City of Lincoln