Details

Last Updated: 06 May 2025

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING

Lincoln City Hall, Council Chambers

700 Broadway Street | Lincoln, Illinois

Monday, April 21, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the City Council of Lincoln was called to order by Mayor Welch at 6:06pm, with proper notice given. City Clerk Peggy Bateman called roll.

Present:

Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Ward 1

Alderman Steve Parrott, Ward 1

Alderman David Sanders, Ward 2

Alderman Sam Downs, Ward 2

Alderman Kevin Bateman, Ward 3

Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Ward 3

Alderman Stan Anderson, Ward 4

Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Ward 4

Staff Present:

Peggy Bateman, City Clerk

Chuck Conzo, City Treasurer

John Hoblit, City Attorney

Ty Johnson, Fire Chief

Walt Landers, Streets Superintendent

Joe Meister, Police Chief

Remotely:

Andrew Bowns, Veolia Water, Project Manager

Absent:

Wes Woodhall, Building and Safety Officer

Presiding:

Tracy Welch, Mayor

Public Comment:

Molly Pickering – new board president of Logan County tourism 

Molly addressed the council regarding misconceptions that the council may have regarding Tourism and their funding/spending/budget. 

Discussion was then had regarding the actions of Logan County Tourism. 

Consent Agenda by Omnibus Vote:
A. Payment of Bills

B. Approval of minutes for March 11, 2025 Committee of the Whole Meeting, March 17, 2025 Regular Meeting. 

C. Request from Lincoln Community High School to close Kickapoo Street between Broadway Street for the LCHS Prom Grand March on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 3:30 pm until 5pm.

D. Request from Washington Monroe School to close N. Sheridan Street from Pekin Street to Delavan Street from Sheridan Street to N. Sherman on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 9am – 1:30pm for Community Carnival put on by school PTO.

Alderwoman McClallen made the motion to approve, Alderman Downs seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll.

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (1) Alderman Stan Anderson

Absent: (0)

Mayor Welch moved to other items on the agenda.

Ordinances and Resolutions:

A. Resolution 2025-513 approving the Content of Certain Executive Session Meeting Minutes of the City Council of the City of Lincoln.

Alderwoman O’Donoghue made the motion to approve, Alderman Sanders seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll. 

Yeas: (6) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (2) Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Stan Anderson

Absent: (0)

B. Ordinance 2025-1044 authorizing the sales of excess surplus property.

Alderman Bateman made the motion to approve, Alderman Downs seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

C. Ordinance 2025-1045 amending Term and Composition of the Historic Preservation Commission.

Alderwoman McClallen made the motion to approve, Alderman Sanders seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

D. Resolution 2025-514 adopting working budget for FY 2025-2026.

Alderman Sanders made the motion to approve, Alderman Bateman seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

Mayor Welch moved to other items on the agenda.

Bids:

A. Approval of bid from Mid-State Exterior Solutions, LLC for a two-year for mowing of Nuisance properties at a cost not to exceed $40 per hour.

Alderman Sanders made the motion to approve, Alderwoman O’Donoghue seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

B.  Approval of bid from Resilient Premier Cleaning, LLC for general cleaning contract for City Hall in an amount not to exceed $210.00 per week.

Alderman Downs made the motion to approve, Alderman Sanders seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

C. Approval of the bid from Goodman Fence, Inc. for the purpose and installation of fencing for outdoor storage in an amount not to exceed $9,000.00.

Alderwoman O’Donoghue made the motion to approve, Alderman Anderson seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

Reports:

A. City Treasurer’s Report for March 2025

General Fund Balance – down from a year ago

Police/Fire Pensions – dropped due to stock market

Municipal Sales Tax – finished above for the calendar year

Non-Home Rule Sales Tax – up from last year

Replacement Tax – fallen off from what it was a couple of years ago

Motor Fuel Tax – up from a year ago

Video Gaming Tax – close to the same as a year ago

Cannabis Sales Tax – consistent

B. City Clerk’s Report for March 2025

$379,189.12 was received in sewer receipts. $24,407.78 was received from both prisons.

C.  Department Head Reports for March 2025

These reports are either on file or will be soon.

New Business/Communications
A.  Advise and Consent to the Mayoral Appointment of William “Bill” Cooper to the position of Code Enforcement Officer.

Alderman Bateman made the motion to approve, Alderman Sanders seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

B.  Mayoral proclamation 2025-515 of Friday, April 25, 2025 as Arbor Day in the City of Lincoln.

Alderwoman Rohlfs made the motion to approve, Alderwoman O’Donoghue seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

C. Approval of the investment of $2,000,000.00 from the Sewer Enterprise Fund in 3 certificates of deposit.

Alderman Downs made the motion to approve, Alderman Sanders seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

D. Approval of the process to purchase of a new Fire Engine within the next four-year period.

Alderman Sanders made the motion to approve, Alderwoman O’Donoghue seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll. 

Yeas: (8) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

E. Approval of the retention of Hotel Motel Tax revenue for the purpose of promoting tourism, effective June 1, 2025.

Alderman Sanders made the motion to approve, Alderman Bateman seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion.

Alderwoman Rohlfs made the motion to table the item, Alderman Parrott seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion.

Alderwoman Rohlfs, Alderman Parrott and Treasurer Conzo all feel that there needs to be more time for discussions and clarifications before a vote is made. 

City Clerk Bateman called the roll on the amendment.

Yeas: (4) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs,

Nays: (4) Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Abstain: (0)

A tie vote goes to the Mayor.  Mayor Welch voted no to not table the item. 

City Clerk Bateman called the role on the item as read on the agenda.

Yeas: (4) Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (4) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderman Stan Anderson, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs

Abstain: (0)

A tie vote goes to the Mayor. Mayor Welch voted yes to retain the funds.

Announcements:

·         Electronics Recycling began this week. Approximately 158 visitors stopped by today.

·         Ribbon cut: Veteran’s assistance building at the John Logan Building

·         Trash pickup in the City will be this Saturday at 10am.  Meet at Latham park.

·         Railsplitter Ave will be closed for a culvert repair beginning 4/23.

Adjournment:

There being no further discussion to come before the City Council of Lincoln, Alderman Downs motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderwoman O’Donoghue. Mayor Welch adjourned the meeting at 7:33 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted By:

Charity Hutchison, Recording Secretary

Details

Last Updated: 20 May 2025

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING

Lincoln City Hall, Council Chambers

700 Broadway Street | Lincoln, Illinois

Monday, April 7, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the City Council of Lincoln was called to order by Mayor Welch at 6:00pm, with proper notice given. City Clerk Peggy Bateman called roll.

Present:

Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Ward 1

Alderman Steve Parrott, Ward 1

Alderman David Sanders, Ward 2

Alderman Sam Downs, Ward 2

Alderman Kevin Bateman, Ward 3

Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Ward 3

Vacant, Ward 4

Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Ward 4

Staff Present:

Peggy Bateman, City Clerk

John Hoblit, City Attorney

Ty Johnson, Fire Chief

Walt Landers, Streets Superintendent

Chuck Conzo, City Treasurer

Wes Woodhall, Building and Safety Officer

Andrew Bowns, Veolia Water, Project Manager

Remotely:

Absent:

Joe Meister, Police Chief

Presiding:

Tracy Welch, Mayor

Public Comment:

Justin Cheger was present to speak to the council regarding the solar ordinance. 

Students from the Land of Lincoln CEO class

Students passed out invitations for the upcoming trade show.

Finley Hewitt shared each business that the students have started.

Consent Agenda by Omnibus Vote:
A. Payment of Bills

B. Approval of minutes for February 11, 2025 Public Hearing, February 17, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting, March 3, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting.   

C. Approval of request from Up in Smoke to permit the closing of various City Streets for the 14^th Annual Up in Smoke and Balloon’s Over 66 Festival, Dock Dogs and Arts and Crafts from Friday, August 22, 2025 at 5am until 1pm Sunday, August 24, 2025.

D.  Approval of request from Lincoln Community High School to permit the closing of various City Streets the 2024-2025 LCHS Senior Parade on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 5pm until its conclusion.

Alderwoman O’Donoghue made the motion to approve, Alderwoman Rohlfs seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion. 

There being no other discussion, City Clerk Bateman called roll.

Yeas: (6) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (1) Alderman Kevin Bateman

Absent: (0)

Mayor Welch moved to other items on the agenda.

Bids:

A. Approval of second Rebuild Illinois resurfacing bid from PH Broughton & Sons in an amount not to exceed $283,666.76.

Alderman Bateman made the motion to approve, Alderman Sanders seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion. 

At last week’s COW, it was agreed that the do not exceed amount be $300,000.  Alderman Downs made the motion to amend the item amount to $300,000, Alderwoman O’Donoghue.

City Clerk Bateman called roll on the amendment. 

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

City Clerk Bateman called roll on the item as amended.

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

B. Approval of Kankakee Street Sewer Repairs by D&D Sewer Repair in an amount not to exceed $37,906.00.

Alderman Parrott made the motion to approve, Alderman Sanders seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll. 

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

Mayor Welch moved to other items on the agenda.

New Business/Communications:
A.  Approval of Mayoral Proclamation of April 15, 2025 as the 206^th Anniversary of the Order of Odd Fellows and the 196^th Anniversary of its presence in the Lincoln Community.

Alderwoman Rohlfs made the motion to approve, Alderman Downs seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll. 

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

B.  Approval of the purchase of a 2025 D Rock Grizzly HD Model 212 CB Rock Seperator/Screen at a cost not exceed $19,900.00

Alderwoman McClallen made the motion to approve, Alderman Downs seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll. 

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

C. Advise & Consent to the Mayoral Appointment of Stan Anderson as Alderman for Ward 4. (Oath of Office following vote of approval.)

Alderwoman O’Donoghue made the motion to approve, Alderman Sanders seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll. 

Yeas: (6) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

Present: (1) Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs

Announcements:

·         CIVC will begin homes 8 & 9.

·         Ribbon cuts: April 10^th Oak Hill Tumbling, April 26^th Lincoln Veteran’s Assistance Office, May 17^th ALMH Market, May 19^th Oasis Senior Center, June 7^th Pride Fest

·         Electronic Recycling: April 21^st – April 25^th

·         Mayor Welch thanked the First Responders for their response and assistance during last week’s storm and damage.

·         Humane Society is having an Easter egg hunt for dogs and a costume contest.

·         Building & Safety now has an online permitting system.  The app now also sends push notifications that will alert the community of events, street closures and other important information.  Mr. Woodhall thanked Cori Ingram and Charity Hutchison for their hard work on these updates.

·         Andrew Bowns has accepted another position and will be winding down his time here.  The City thanks him for his service.

Adjournment:

There being no further discussion to come before the City Council of Lincoln, Alderman Parrott motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Downs. Mayor Welch adjourned the meeting at 6:50 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted By:

Charity Hutchison, Recording Secretary

Details

Last Updated: 20 May 2025

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING

Lincoln City Hall, Council Chambers

700 Broadway Street | Lincoln, Illinois

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

The Committee of the Whole Meeting of the City Council of Lincoln was called to order by Mayor Tracy Welch at 6:09 p.m., with proper notice given. City Clerk Peggy Bateman called roll.

Present:

Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Ward 1

Alderman Steve Parrott, Ward 1

Alderman David Sanders, Ward 2

Alderman Sam Downs, Ward 2

Alderman Kevin Bateman, Ward 3

Stan Anderson, Ward 4

Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Ward 4

Staff Present:

Peggy Bateman, City Clerk

Chuck Conzo, City Treasurer

John Hoblit, City Attorney

Walt Landers, Streets Superintendent

Wes Woodhall, Building and Safety Officer

Ty Johnson, Fire Chief

Joe Meister, Police Chief

Remotely:

Andrew Bowns, Veolia Water, Project Manager

Absent:

Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Ward 3

Presiding:

Mayor Tracy Welch

Public Comment:

There is no one present for public comment. 

Ray Jackson Grand Master of Illinois for the Odd Fellows – Proclamation 2025-512

Mr. Jackson gave some background on the Odd Fellows and read the Proclamation.

Mayoral Appointment of William “Bill” Cooper to the position of Code Enforcement Officer

Chief Meister feels Mr. Cooper is good candidate.  He feels with his past experience of being a correctional and parole officer will aid in his ability to stay even tempered and have results of compliance.  He’ll be available 2 days a week. 

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Arbor Day Proclamation

Mayor Welch read the Proclamation.  The city is being recognized as a Tree City USA community for the 23^rd year.  A tree planting ceremony will take place soon.

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Resolution Approving the Content of Certain Executive Session Minutes of the City Council of the City of Lincoln.

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Ordinance authorizing the Sale of Excess Personal Property

This item will be amended to add a sale item.

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Request to Permit: Lincoln Community High School Prom Grand March Saturday, May 3, 2025

This item will be placed on the Consent Agenda.

Request to Permit: Washington Monroe Community Carnival Saturday, May 3, 2025

This item will be placed on the Consent Agenda.

Award of Two (2) Year Contract for Mowing of Nuisance properties in the City of Lincoln

Three bids were received this year. The lowest bid came in from Midwest Exterior Solutions LLC.

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Ordinance amending Term and Composition of the Historic Preservation Commission.

There has been difficulty retaining membership within the Commission.  The boundary to reside in has been extended to include more people. 

It currently states that no member be able to serve more than two consecutive terms.   There are people on the commission that won’t be able to serve due to already having met that limit.  This ordinance will change that term limit. 

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Certificate of Deposit – Sewer Enterprise Fund

CD amounts...

$650,000.00 – 3 months @ United Community Bank

$650,000.00 – 6 months @ United Community Bank

$700,000.00 – 7 months @ Tremont First National Bank

The Council agreed to allow Treasurer Conzo to move forward with the investments prior to the vote on Monday. 

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Fencing Purchase for Outdoor Storage

Due to the increase in property theft, the bay in the Police Dept. garage is full of evidence and cannot be used for the intended purpose of vehicle processing.  The Dept would like to use the space outside of the garage for items that can be stored outside such has trailers and bikes.  That space needs to be fenced in to keep the items secure. 

This item will be placed on the regular agenda. 

Fire Engine Purchase

One of the City’s fire engines is 24 years old, the other is 14.  Chief Johnson would like council approval to begin looking for a new engine.  In previous years, the process was to bid out a truck and take the lowest bid.  With the current market and inflation, manufactures are concerned they won’t make a profit due to the wait time for a truck being 2-4 years.  The cost will range from $1 million to $1.2million depending on if the department gets a spec truck. 

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Award of City Hall General Cleaning Contract

Clerk Bateman put out a bid for cleaning at City Hall. 6 bids were received.  Clerk Bateman said the lowest bidder did not meet the bid requirements so she is asking the Council to approve the 2^nd lowest bid which is Resilient Cleaning.

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Budget Resolution for FY 25/26

Each department cut their budgets at the request of the Mayor and Treasurer.

This item will be placed on the regular agenda.

Discussion regarding Tourism 

Mayor Welch shared with the council why he has a request to retain the 95% of Hotel/Motel tax with the City and not send down to Tourism. 

He said it is not a reflection of anyone in particular with Tourism.  The request is to see if the City could run a more efficient program and offer more exposure to the Community.  This council is getting feedback from constituents that don’t feel Tourism is doing the best work.

Per a review and document provided by Tourism, the city of Lincoln provides $169,000 in H/M funds to Tourism. Tourism received a grant totaling $44,000.  The Mill generated $7,000. This totals $221,000.

Expenses total $205,000. 

Advertising/marketing (which is the main component of Tourism) totals $68,000 leaves them in the negative of $51,000. 

Mayor Welch ran through approx. totals for a city ran Tourism.  The savings is expected to be at least $70,000 in just payroll alone.

Atlanta is the only other town that has a hotel but they retain their H/M tax dollars.

Mayor Welch’s request is to begin a Tourism department with a contractor running the department on our behalf.  He stated it is a more efficient process.

Alderman Parrott and Alderman Downs wishes to verify the figures stated in the Tourism document.

Treasurer Conzo shared that it may be that the Tourism had a substantial fund balance that kept them running in the black.  He has not seen their financials but just offered it as a suggestion.

Mayor Welch stated that the city is extremely behind on the Route 66 celebration that is quickly approaching. 

The contractor will work remotely.

The City must give a 30-day notice to terminate the contract with Tourism.

This item will be placed on the regular agenda as “request for the council to approve retaining H/M tax dollars. 

Announcements:

• There are three different versions of letters going out for the electrical aggregate. An opt in, opt out and a letter for small businesses.
• 544 4^th St went out for bid for this property and there weren’t any bids received.
• LDC property update: Deputy Governor Manar called Senator Turner and is serious about moving forward with the LDC project. He’d like a task force put together to come up with ideas that the property can be used for.
• Electronics Recycling will begin on Monday and run all week.
• LWF will be closed Saturday and Sunday for Easter, the facility will return to the normal Wednesday/Saturday schedule.
• Great opening night for the Race Track.

Adjournment:

There being no further discussion to come before the City Council of Lincoln, Alderman Downs motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Parrott. All were in favor. Mayor Welch adjourned the meeting at 8:00 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted By:

Charity Hutchison, Recording Secretary

Details

Last Updated: 22 April 2025

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING

Lincoln City Hall, Council Chambers

700 Broadway Street | Lincoln, Illinois

Monday, March 17, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the City Council of Lincoln was called to order by Mayor Welch at 6:00pm, with proper notice given. City Clerk Peggy Bateman called roll.

Present:

Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Ward 1

Alderman Steve Parrott, Ward 1

Alderman David Sanders, Ward 2

Alderman Sam Downs, Ward 2

Alderman Kevin Bateman, Ward 3

Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Ward 3

Vacant, Ward 4

Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Ward 4

Staff Present:

Peggy Bateman, City Clerk

Chuck Conzo, City Treasurer

Ty Johnson, Fire Chief

Matt Comstock, Deputy Police Chief

Walt Landers, Streets Superintendent

Andrew Bowns, Veolia Water, Project Manager

Absent:

John Hoblit, City Attorney

Wes Woodhall, Building and Safety Officer

Joe Meister, Police Chief

Presiding:

Tracy Welch, Mayor

A moment of silence was had for the passing of Retired Fire Chief Bucky Washam.

Public Comment:

There was no one present for public comment.

Oath of Office:

Chris Phillips Police Sergeant

Consent Agenda by Omnibus Vote:
A. Payment of Bills

B. Approval of minutes February 11, 2025 Committee of the Whole Meeting, February 26, 2025 Committee of the Whole Meeting.

C. Approval of request from Adam Mackey for the Lincoln Speedway Tentative Racing Schedule for 2025.

D. Approval of amendment to request from Lincoln Railsplitter Antique Auto Club to permit the closing of 100 Block S. Kickapoo between Broadway & Pulaski April 26, 2025, June 28, 2025, September 27, 2025.  Closing of 500 block of Pulaski Street between Kickapoo & McLean May 24, 2025 and July 26, 2025 for Cars & Coffee. 

Alderman Sanders made the motion to approve, Alderman Downs seconded.  Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called roll.

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

Ordinances and Resolutions:

A. Ordinance 2025-1042 authorizing Real Estate to go out to bid – 544 4^th St.   

Alderwoman O’Donoghue made the motion to approve, Alderman Bateman seconded.

Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll.

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

B.  Ordinance 2025-1043 amending 4-12-3, 4-12-5 and 4-12-6 of the Lincoln City Code

Alderman Bateman made the motion to approve, Alderwoman O’Donoghue seconded.

Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll.

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

Reports:

A. City Treasurer’s Report for February 2025

General Fund is not going in the right direction.  Growth in investments

Police/Fire Pension funds – comparable to before but may see some losses due to the stock market

Sales Tax – increased

Non-Home Rule Sales tax – increased

State income Tax – considerably ahead from previous year

Motor Fuel Tax – up slightly from last year

Video Gaming – up slightly from last year

B.  City Clerk’s Report for February 2025

$774,611.88 was taken in in the month of February.  This is almost doubled due to the 10% discount.     $68,741.80 was received from both prisons.

C.  Department Head Reports for February 2025

These reports are either on file or will be soon.

New Business/Communications:
A.  Approval of the resurfacing of various City Streets in an amount not to exceed $487,000.00

Alderman Sanders made the motion to approve, Alderwoman McClellan seconded.

Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll.

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

B.  Advise and Consent to the Mayoral appointment of Marty Neitzel to the Economic Development Commission.

Alderman Sanders made the motion to approve, Alderwoman O’Donoghue seconded.

Mayor Welch called for discussion, there being none, City Clerk Bateman called the roll.

Yeas: (7) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (0)

Absent: (0)

C.  Approval of contract from Information Technology Services between Eric Notto and the City of Lincoln in an amount not to exceed $69,300.00. 

Alderman Downs made the motion to approve, Alderwoman O’Donoghue seconded.

Mayor Welch called for discussion.

Alderwoman Rohlfs will be abstaining due to not having a passed FY 25/26 budget in hand. 

There being no other discussion, City Clerk Bateman called the roll.

Yeas: (6) Alderman Steve Parrott, Alderman Sam Downs, Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Alderman Kevin Bateman, Alderman David Sanders

Nays: (0)

Abstain: (1) Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs

Absent: (0)

Announcements:

• Heartland College will be having a strategic planning meeting this Thursday that is open to the public
• The Landscape Waste Facility will be open this Saturday and next Saturday 8-3:50. Extended Spring Hours will begin after. Mulch is available.

Executive Session 2C3 Selection of a person to fill a public office:

There being no further announcements to come before the council, Alderman Downs made the motion to move into Executive Session, seconded by Alderman Sanders.  All were in favor. 

The Council recessed from the Committee of the Whole meeting at 6:15pm in order to enter Executive Session.  Mayor Welch announced there would be no further city business conducted upon reconvening. 

Return from Executive Session:

The council reconvened from Executive Session at 6:38pm in order to reconvene the Committee of the Whole meeting.  Roll call was taken.

Present:

Alderwoman Robin McClallen, Ward 1

Alderman Steve Parrott, Ward 1

Alderman David Sanders, Ward 2

Alderman Sam Downs, Ward 2

Alderman Kevin Bateman, Ward 3

Alderwoman Wanda Lee Rohlfs, Ward 3

Vacant, Ward 4

Alderwoman Rhonda O’Donoghue, Ward 4

Adjournment:

There being no further discussion to come before the City Council of Lincoln, Alderman Bateman motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Sanders.  Mayor Welch adjourned the meeting at 6:38 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted By:

Charity Hutchison, Recording Secretary