City of Centralia City Council met June 28.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
This meeting was conducted and attended as a full hybrid meeting. The City Council for Centralia, Illinois met in person with a video conference option. Mayor Kuder called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Kuder, Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, & Councilman Jackson
Absent: None
A vacancy exists on the Council due to the resignation of Councilman Sauer.
Staff Members Participating Physically at City Hall: Forrest Langenfeld, Interim City Manager; Bill Agee, City Treasurer; Derek Sherman, Economic Development Director/Assistant City Manager; Gayla Harting, Community Development Director; Jeff Schwartz, Public Works Director; Chief Lynch, Fire Department and Chief Dodson, Police Department, Michelle Liggett, Finance Director; Luke Behme, City Attorney and Kim Enke, City Clerk
Staff Members Participating Electronically: None
PRAYER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Kuder led the Pledge of Allegiance and Pastor Urshan led prayer.
AMENDMENTS AND/OR ADDITIONS TO AGENDA
None
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The Mayor and Council recognized the service of Councilman David Sauer. Mayor Kuder reviewed his history with the City and the City Clerk read a letter that was submitted by Mr. Sauer prior to the meeting.
An email was submitted prior to the meeting for public participation concerning SSM hospital no longer offering maternity services at the Centralia location by Carrie Leigh Schnicker, Bunny Garrett, and Rowena Patrick.
Vernell Burris addressed the Council concerning SSM removing maternity services and suggested that the Mayor and Council make a stand against it so the hospital knows that it is not acceptable for the community. Mr. Burris also encouraged the Mayor and Council to look at their tax levy and the finances to pay for needed services.
Steve Coleman addressed the Council to encourage them to investigate why some many businesses have closed downtown and to also encourage them to attract new businesses. He also discussed the amount of speeding and running of stop signs in Centralia and requested that there be more cameras installed.
A proclamation was presented to ESDA for Emergency Services Disaster Agency Day. Mayor Kuder expressed his appreciation for ESDA and the services they provide.
APPOINTMENT OF COUNCIL MEMBER TO FILL A VACANCY
A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jackson to Approve A Resolution Naming A Councilman To Fill A Vacancy.
OATH OF OFFICE ADMINISTERED TO NEW COUNCILMAN
The City Clerk administered to the oath of Office to Blake Griffin.
CONSENT AGENDA
A Motion was made by Councilman Jackson and seconded by Councilman Castellari to Approve Items 1- 6 of the Consent Agenda.
1. Approval Of The Minutes Of The June 14, 2021 City Council Meeting
2. Approval Of Payrolls And Vouchers In The Amount Of $623,310.79
3. Receive And Place On File The Monthly Treasurer’s Report As Of April 30, 2021
4. Approval Of The Request For A Fireworks Display On Lake Centralia By The Lake Association
5. Approval Of The Request To Use Fairview Park By The Centralia Chamber Of Commerce For The Centralia Balloon Fest On August 20th And August 21st
6. A Resolution Confirming Appointments of Certain Individuals to Various Boards and Commissions of the City of Centralia
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Griffin, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
None
BIDS
None
ORDINANCES
City Manager Langenfeld stated that the items to be declared surplus included miscellaneous office equipment and furniture as well as a infield prep machine that he expects 618 Academy to bid on. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Castellari to Approve An Ordinance Declaring Certain Property To Be Surplus Property And Authorizing The Sale, Trade, Disposal, Or Donation, Thereof.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Griffin, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder Nays: None
Chief Lynch explained the past requests that he has had about how to display fireworks. He stated that currently the ordinance only included the display at the reservoirs or permitted displays at events such as Balloon Fest or the 4th of July Carnival. He stated that the state laws were revised in December and now include specifications that include consumer fireworks that are classified at 1.4G and 1.3G. He stated that 1.4G is the consumer grade and explained that these can create pretty large displays. He stated that this ordinance is a way to monitor the displays and have a set process to approve each of them. He stated that this ordinance was modeled after Mt. Vernon’s ordinance and processes. He stated that his position is to leave the fireworks displays to the professionals but if people do it on their own, he wants to make sure it is being done safely. Chief Lynch stated that approving this now will allow for it to be a year before they are needed again and he hopes to be able to offer training for the certification. Mayor Kuder clarified that the City would need to set the parameters that include who can possess and display due to the new laws. Chief Lynch stated that he was correct. He added that the other option would be for the City to simply state that there cannot be any fireworks displayed. He stated that he wants to make sure the City is covered. He stated that while checking with the Police Chief, the only way to cite some one is with disorderly conduct. He stated that they would need this permit to possess the fireworks. Attorney Behme noted that if the Council does not pass the ordinance, residents would be able to shoot this grade of fireworks how and where they want and they would not be able to be ticketed. Councilman Smith confirmed that disorderly conduct was the only option for violations. Councilman Castellari questioned if there were certain time restrictions and Attorney Behme stated that they have to file for the permit for the specified time. Chief Lynch stated that the permits are for specific events not an open permit. A motion was made by Councilman Castellari and seconded by Councilman Griffin to Approve An Ordinance Amending Chapter 9 Article III Of The Centralia Municipal Code Authorizing The Regulation of Sale And Possession Of Fireworks.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Griffin, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
City Manager Langenfeld stated that the approval of this ordinance will allow for the lease of a sewer cleaner. He stated that Director Schwartz found a 2021 Vactor single axle sewer cleaner which is an essential piece of equipment from Key Equipment. He stated that at the end of the 7th year he will be able to buy it for the residual cost of $130,000. He stated that they did offer financing but Community Trust Bank’s rate was $7,000 per year cheaper which would save the City approximately $49,000. He stated that the rental of the truck does apply to the lease purchase price. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jackson to Approve An Ordinance Approving A Lease For A Sewer Cleaner.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Griffin, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
RESOLUTIONS
City Manager Langenfeld stated that this resolution is for the use of MFT funds on various city streets. A motion was made by Councilman Castellari and seconded by Councilman Smith to Approve A Resolution Approving Improvement Under The Illinois Highway Code For Portions of Frazier Avenue, Sara Dr. And Nancy Dr.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Griffin, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
Mayor Kuder noted that this resolution was similar to the previous one passed. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jackson to Approve A Resolution Approving Improvement Under The Illinois Highway Code For Portions of Sycamore Street And Pine Street.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Griffin, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
Assistant City Manager Sherman stated that this is a resolution to approve the distribution of funds from the Illinois DCEO that was originally awarded in December 2020 in the amount of $250,000. He stated that there was $130,000 disbursed in January and they allowed a modification of the original grant and then it was opened again to expend the remaining $120,000 in the 2nd round. He stated that there were 13 new applicants and 7 new ones were approved in the amount of $85,000. He stated that the remaining funds were expended to the original first round recipients by the state guidelines. He stated that this grant was for small businesses with less than 15 employees. He stated that each candidate submitted documents and they were reviewed by staff members. Mayor Kuder confirmed that the funds came from the City’s budget and Mr. Sherman stated that it will due to being a reimbursable grant. He stated that receipts will be submitted to the state for reimbursement. Councilman Castellari asked if the first round individuals had to reapply and Mr. Sherman stated that they did not. He stated that they were provided the funds automatically due to not having enough qualified applicants. A motion was made by Councilman Jackson and seconded by Councilman Smith to Approve A Resolution Approving the Local Cure Economic Support Payments Grant Program Award Recommendations and Distributions.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Griffin, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
OTHER BUSINESS
None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None
REPORTS
City Clerk Enke reported there have been 21 UTVs registered since the ordinance was passed at the last meeting. She noted that the stickers are still on order. She also reported that the applications are still being accepted for the City Manager position until the 30th. She also reminded everyone that City Hall offices will be closed on Monday July 5th in observance of the holiday on Sunday.
Interim City Manager Langenfeld stated that Mr. Sherman and himself will be having several out-of-town meetings for grant funding. He stated that he had a meeting with the IML about pandemic funding and reported that he is anticipating receiving the checks between mid-July and Labor Day. He stated that they have not established the application form but it will go thru the State Treasurer’s office. He stated that Mr. Sherman and him will be meeting with IDOT Division of Aeronautics to do some potential work at the airport. He stated that they have a meeting with DCEO. He stated that the City could have 3 or 4 applications going in the month of August including the water project, a housing rehab grant, and two economic development projects for local industries. He stated that they will also be meeting with Illinois Small Business Growth Corporation for a SBA project for one of the new businesses in the community. He also noted that they will go to the Illinois Housing Development Authority for a business that may qualify for some housing tax credits for a project in Centralia. He stated that they will also go to the EDA for funding of the water project. He also congratulated Blake Griffin for being appointed as a Councilman and welcomed him aboard.
Councilman Castellari discussed the water plant project. He stated that all of the Council have toured the plant that was built in 1925. He stated that they were told that that there was a 5-10 year life expectancy and the Council has the responsibility to make the some decision. He stated that it is important and a marketable commodity which could help attract new businesses. He stated that it will be a topic that the Council will be focused on. Councilman Castellari also stated that he did a ride along with a Police Officer that involved a federal warrant to shut a house down involving drugs. He thanked the teams and departments in the city that are working to clean up these homes.
Councilman Smith stated that the infrastructure at the water plant is in dire need and it is important to move forward. He also asked for an update on the pickle ball court. City Manager Langenfeld stated that the court was power washed and that was causing some of the delay. Councilman Smith also responded to Mr. Burris stating that he was in shock when SSM made the announcement but he is not sure if there is anything that the City can do to change the corporations decision. He stressed how important all of the services are for the community. Councilman Smith recognized Latavia Maines for her competition in the Olympic trials but unfortunately did not qualify. He stated that she was very upbeat and optimistic to compete in the future. He stated that she is excited to return to Centralia and be here for the community event on July 24th. Steve Coleman addressed the Council stating that his nephew, Daryl Sullivan Jr., did qualify for the Olympics in high jump. Councilman Smith congratulated Councilman Griffin on his appointment and welcomed him. He also recognized his daughter in attendance. Councilman Smith stated that it is time to get recreation back in Centralia. He also thanked ESDA for the work they do in Centralia and the surrounding area. Councilman Smith stated that the BCMW early headstart class is going to have a parade at 10 a.m. and hoped that many would plan to attend.
Councilman Jackson stated that he spent the day with Public Works Director Schwartz to look at the water supply and water treatment plant. He stated that the plant is a serious topic and something that the Council will have to move forward on it quickly. He also welcomed Mr. Griffin to the team.
Mayor Kuder recognized Je’Chys Brown for his accomplishments at sectionals while competing in discus and shot put. He stated that his throws were the top five throws in the history of CHS. Next Mayor Kuder recognized Michael Lloyd from CHS that boxed and won his first USA sanctioned boxing event in St. Louis in the lightweight 135 division. He also recognized Eli Steinhart for his win in the 95lb division in Kentucky. Driscoll’s Boxing Academy coaches and students were recognized by Mayor Kuder and the City Council.
Mayor Kuder discussed the Summer Market on July 24th that will have food and craft vendors and many events for the children. He shared the flyer and invited everyone to share the event with others. He also discussed the Career Expo that is coming up August 20th and 21st. City Manager Langenfeld stated that the Illinois Department of Corrections will be participating among many other employers. Greg Sutton expressed the importance of the area businesses to get involved and explained that over 100 regional businesses are expected to participate with a goal of 1500 job seekers. Mayor Kuder provided a reminder to residents to be mindful and respectful of neighbors over the 4th of July holiday if shooting fireworks. Mayor Kuder also reminded residents to attend and take part in the 4th of July Parade down Broadway from Chestnut to Fairview Park starting at 2 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Castellari To Adjourn The Meeting To Closed Session Under 5ILCS 120/2(c)(1) The Appointment, Employment, Compensation, Discipline, Performance, Or Dismissal Of Specific Employees, Specific Individuals Who Serve As Independent Contractors In A Park, Recreational, Or Educational Setting, Or Specific Volunteers Of The Public Body Or Legal Counsel For The Public Body, Including Hearing Testimony On A Complaint Lodged Against An Employee, A Specific Individual Who Serves As An Independent Contractor In A Park, Recreational, Or Educational Setting, Or A Volunteer Of The Public Body Or Against Legal Counsel For The Public Body To Determine Its Validity.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Griffin, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
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