City of Centralia City Council met April 26.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Williams, Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer & Councilman Marshall (Mayor Williams was present at City Hall and all others attended remotely)
Absent: None
Staff Members Participating Physically at City Hall: Forrest Langenfeld, Interim City Manager; Bill Agee, City Treasurer; Gayla Harting, Community Development Director; Derek Sherman, Economic Development Director/Assistant City Manager; and Kim Enke, City Clerk
Staff Members Participating Electronically: Luke Behme, City Attorney; Michelle Liggett, Finance Director; Jeff Schwartz, Public Works Director; Chief Lynch, Fire Department and Chief Dodson, Police Department
PRAYER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Williams led the Pledge of Allegiance.
AMENDMENTS AND/OR ADDITIONS TO AGENDA
None
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Comments were submitted prior to the meeting and were read and shared by the City Clerk.
Vernell Burris asked to please open the meetings to the public. He also asked when Roland Burris will be recognized with the dedication of Maple St. from Broadway to Rexford. He stated that he has been asking for two months and has not heard from the Mayor.
Dale Spencer lives at 427 N Locust. He bought a condemned house. Since purchasing it, him, his wife and daughter have put $200,000 into their home. They have a church on one side of them with junk, trees, and tires that are not being cleaned out and they have also noticed people leaving from the property which appear to be sleeping inside. On the south side, that property has had no one living in it for the past two years. The grass needs mowed and trash is blowing into his yard from the properties. Both properties on each side are eyesores and they are looking for any assistance to get these properties cleaned up.
Eric Collins representing the NAACP provided a letter that stated that the letter that was presented to the Council at the previous meeting concerning the seating of Bryan Kuder was not written by the NAACP, it was authorized or sanctioned.
CONSENT AGENDA
A Motion was made by Councilman Jones and seconded by Councilman Marshall to Approve Items 1- 4 of the Consent Agenda.
1. Approval Of The Minutes Of The April 12, 2021 City Council Meeting
2. Approval Of Payrolls And Vouchers In The Amount Of $917,101.88
3. Receive And Place On File The Monthly Treasurer’s Report As Of March 31, 2021
4. An Ordinance Waiving The Application Of Chapter 12, Section 12-6 Of The Centralia Municipal Code For 102 E. Broadway (Crooked Creek Winery Downtown) On Multiple Dates
Ayes: Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer, Councilman Marshall, and Mayor Williams
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
None
BIDS
Gayla Harting reported that the same company that was used last year is the recommended bid for approval. She stated that is a bid for a three year contract and noted that this contractor has provided great service. Councilman Sauer asked for the comparison of the bid submitted this year to the bid and payments last season and Ms. Harting reported that it was the same amount. A Motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jones to Approve A Bid For Seasonal Abatement Lawn Mowing Services For The Community Development Department By Pro Lawn Service.
Ayes: Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer, Councilman Marshall, and Mayor Williams
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
Mayor Williams stated that this lease of the ball fields to 618 Sports Academy will get the fields back into use and get kids out and playing ball. He stated that it is a win-win situation for them and the City since it is no cost to the City. He stated that he looks forward to the families using the park this summer. Councilman Smith stated that he has no problem with 618 Sports Academy stepping forward to do this. He stated that he is concerned about the previous administration’s public private partnership that was supposed to take care of the two fields but instead let them get beyond repair. He stated that the City, the Monken family and American Legion put money into the two fields only 10-13 years ago in the amount of approximately $50,000.00 in addition to the maintenance and upkeep. He stated that it is something that he would like to discuss with the City Manager going forward. He stated that he does approve and commends 618 Sports Academy for coming forward and helping the City out at no cost. He added that it is our City park, it is a gem, and located between major throughfares. He noted that at one time it was utilized more but it has basically been dead for almost 8 years. City Manager Langenfeld noted that the cost would be between $8,000 - $10,000 if the City would have to do the work that they are doing to get the fields usable. He explained the value of bringing tournaments to town that could have a $30,000 to $40,000 impact on the community since there are restaurants nearby. He also explained that the recreation agreement that will be reviewed later on the agenda, includes the Recreation Complex still having access to the park around the schedule of 618 Sports Academy with discussions of joint tournaments and tournaments involving the junior high school or high school for overflow facilities. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Sauer to Approve An Ordinance Approving The Lease Of Ball Fields and Concession Stands At Fairview Park To 618 Sports Academy.
Ayes: Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer, Councilman Marshall, and Mayor Williams
Nays: None
RESOLUTIONS
City Manager Langenfeld stated that this is an agreement that is the same rate that has been paid for the sludge removal in the past and recommended approval of the agreement. A motion was made by Councilman Jones and seconded by Councilman Sauer to Approve A Resolution Approving An Agreement With Metro-Ag Inc. For Removal And Transportation Of Wastewater Treatment Plant Residuals.
Ayes: Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer, Councilman Marshall, and Mayor Williams
Nays: None
City Manager Langenfeld stated that this agreement adds and removes certain provisions in the original agreement. He stated that additions will include mowing the former Evers Field and dog park except the football and practice field. He stated that it removes the Centralia Night at Busch Stadium. He stated that an amendment in the compensation to $174,000 per year/ $14,500 per month. He noted that it will be reviewed each year in October. Councilman Marshall stated that the Recreation Center is a staple in the community. He added that both centers, including the Youth Center have been very beneficial to many families. A motion was made by Councilman Jones and seconded by Councilman Sauer to Approve A Resolution Approving An Amendment To The Centralia Recreation Complex Agreement.
Ayes: Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer, Councilman Marshall, and Mayor Williams
Nays: None
City Manager Langenfeld stated that this agreement is for the trolley. Derek Sherman stated that this agreement is essentially the same as the 2019 agreement. He stated that the change has been specifically outlining the insurance requirements. He stated that they will house the trolley, provide the driver and maintain the trolley and bill the City for the repairs. Mayor Williams stated that he thought the agreement was for several years and questioned the new agreement. Assistant City Manager Sherman stated that they could have extended the original contract that was for a year with an extension. A motion was made by Councilman Marshall and seconded by Councilman Sauer to Approve A Resolution Approving A Cooperative Intergovernmental Agreement Between South Central Illinois Mass Transit District And City Of Centralia For The Trolley Vehicle.
Ayes: Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer, Councilman Marshall, and Mayor Williams
Nays: None
A motion was made by Councilman Jones and seconded by Councilman Smith to Approve A Resolution Approving An Agreement Between James P. Hodges, Jr. And The City Of Centralia For Photography Services.
Ayes: Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer, Councilman Marshall, and Mayor Williams
Nays: None
Councilman Sauer stated that last time this truancy ordinance was discussed, there were three members that stated that they were concerned about the effects that this truancy ordinance would have on poorer families. He stated that in regard to that, he feels that for the poorer families, there is nothing like education. He stated that if those three members still feel this way, the ordinance should be tabled again because it will be voted on again in a few weeks. A motion was made by Councilman Sauer and seconded by Councilman Jones to Table An Ordinance Amending The City Municipal Code To Establish A City Truancy Code.
Ayes: Councilman Jones, Councilman Smith, Councilman Sauer, Councilman Marshall, and Mayor Williams
Nays: None
City Clerk Enke reported that the official canvass has not been received but is expected prior to the swearing in on May 10th. She stated that the meeting is being planned to include the family of the newly elected officials and the media while they take their oath of office.
City Treasurer Bill Agee reported that they are continuing to work on the 2020 audit and hope to have it completed soon.
Interim City Manager Langenfeld stated that there have been a number of online sessions concerning the pandemic funding that is expected to be passed down from the federal government. He stated that they expect to get some numbers soon about the amount of money that may be available. He stated that also himself and Chief sat in on a conference call concerning potential fire grants that may be available as well. He stated that they are also waiting for state guidance about the $1.5M that the City should be receiving for the general fund over two installments. He stated that he will provide further updates about this when he has more information. He stated that a committee has been formed concerning hosting a major job fair this summer due to the number of unfilled positions at various levels. He stated that they will be involving the Industrial Commission and local media for advertising.
Councilman Smith stated that he appreciated the 618 Sports Academy for stepping up to help. He stated that this is near and dear to him and is aware of what this can bring into the community once the fields are filled with teams and families. He also asked for further clarification about the letter from those involved with the NAACP challenging Mr. Kuder but now
some are saying they did not have anything to do with it. He stated that it was concerning that some were challenging and now they are saying that they did not write, sanction or authorize the letter. He stated that hopefully this is all in the past but he has had some people ask him about this. Councilman Smith also asked about the status of the pickleball court that was proposed by Mayor Williams and himself. He stated that the pickleball group has offered to help and he has some schematics for it. City Manager Langenfeld stated that the far west corner of the courts will be striped for pickleball on the tennis courts under the lights. He stated that it is on Pat Stedelin’s list of items to do but he has been tied up with the leak at the former city hall building but expects it to be coming very soon.
Councilman Sauer asked if this meeting is the last meeting that Councilman Jones, Councilman Marshall and Mayor Williams will actively participate. City Clerk Enke stated that the meeting on May 10th will begin with the current Council taking care of the consent items and then the meeting would adjourn. She further explained that the newly elected officers would take their oath of office and the meeting would then be called to order with the new Council. Councilman Sauer took the opportunity to thank Howard Jones, Andre Marshall, and Mayor Williams for their service. He stated that after the next meeting he would like to be brought up to date on some of the litigation and negotiation matters. He stated that it would be helpful for the new members of the Council as well. He also thanked the City Manager for keeping the City Council updated with his numerous reports. He also commended Derek Sherman for his efforts as the new Assistant City Manager/Economic Development Director.
Councilman Smith also thanked Councilman Jones, Councilman Marshall and Mayor Williams for their time. He also commended Derek Sherman and City Manager Langenfeld for their work.
Councilman Marshall thanked everyone and expressed how he has seen a lot of positive change during his time of service. He stated that many people have asked him if it is worth it to serve and he stated that he is very optimistic going forward. He stated that he feels that they have accomplished a lot and he has learned a lot.
Mayor Williams also thanked Derek for the work that he has accomplished in the short time he has been with the City. Mayor Williams asked Community Development Director Harting to discuss the Locust St. Fair. She stated that the number of vendors have doubled this year and there will be a car show, vintage motorcycle exhibit, and CHS Rock Band performing. She stated that there will be an Elmwood Cemetery tour with the trolley, Civil War display and Elmwood Speaks. She added that Band Aide has sponsored one of the Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Supe Grande that will also perform. She anticipated it to be fun and have some added excitement. Councilman Jones thanked Gayla and the staff for putting the fair together. Gayla thanked Mimi Hawkins for her assistance with the planning of the event and organizing vendors. Mayor Williams thanked Mike Lambert with 618 Sports Academy about being enthusiastic about getting the diamonds ready. He also stated that he is looking forward to these tournaments along with the Gaetti Sports Academy. He stated that it has been a great opportunity for the merchants to also increase their business. Mayor Williams discussed the need for a job fair and thanked City Manager Langenfeld for getting one organized. Mayor Williams stated that in response to Mr. Burris’ request to name a street after Mr. Roland Burris, he is also working on naming a section of 51 South after Mr. Roland Burris. Mayor Williams stated that he went past the park today and believes that they may have started painting the pickleball lines. Mayor Williams in response to Councilman Smith’s request for clarification about the letter submitted. Mayor Williams stated that the letter was signed by Mr. Collins and it may have misconstrued as being from the NAACP. He clarified that the letter was sent by Bunny Garrett and not the NAACP. Mayor Williams thanked the city staff for their work and assistance while he has served as Mayor. He stated that his goal was to help the City and help the town move forward during a difficult situation at the time. He stated that he will continue to help the City move forward. He asked for further explanation concerning the next meeting and City Clerk Enke stated that it would be a hybrid meeting that will allow their family to attend. It will also allow them to see how the compliance with restrictions could also affect their future decision to holding in person meetings. Mayor Williams wished Mayor Elect Kuder and the new Councilmen the best as they step forward.
Councilman Jones clarified that there would be an opportunity to speak at the last meeting and the Clerk confirmed that there would be time during public participation.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jones To Adjourn The Meeting.
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