City of Centralia City Council met Aug. 23.
Here are 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 for the public. Mayor Kuder called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Kuder, Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, & Councilman Jackson
Absent: Councilman Griffin
Staff Members Participating Physically at City Hall: Derek Sherman, Acting City Manager/Economic Development Director/Assistant City Manager; Gayla Harting, Community Development Director; Jeff Schwartz; Public Works Director; Michelle Liggett, Finance Director; Chief Dodson, Police Department; John Lynch Fire Department; Bill Agee, City Treasurer; and Kim Enke, City Clerk
Staff Members Participating Electronically: None
PRAYER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Kuder led the Pledge of Allegiance and Vernell Burris led the prayer.
AMENDMENTS AND/OR ADDITIONS TO AGENDA
None
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Steve Coleman addressed the City Council regarding a demolished property that has high weeds and grass on the property. Mayor Kuder suggested that Mr. Coleman speak to Gayla Harting about the grass and weeds and cleaning up the property. He also asked if the former laundromat that was closed on West Broadway will be demolished, and he also asked if there are more businesses that will be opening in the Fairview Park Shopping Center.
Vernell Burris addressed the City Council thanking them for recognizing Roland Burris. He also suggested that the City Council consider extending the city limits since it has not been extended in years noting Calumet has many properties along it that are not in the city limits. Next Mr. Burris discussed the salary of the police department asking the Council to consider raising their wages. He also discussed the need to increase property taxes since they have not been raised for 8 years.
Councilman Castellari explained that the City Council will be looking at the annexation of property. He explained that he had met with the Acting City Manager and City Clerk to discuss annexations. He stated that they will review the properties that need to be in the city limits before raising taxes.
Mayor Kuder read the proclamation for Walk to End Alzheimer’s Awareness Day.
CONSENT AGENDA
A Motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jackson to Approve Items 1- 4 of the Consent Agenda.
1. Approval Of The Minutes Of The August 9, 2021 City Council Meeting
2. Receive And Place On File The Monthly Treasurer’s Report As Of July 31, 2021
3. Approval Of Payrolls And Vouchers In The Amount Of $760,993.04
4. Request To Use Fairview Park By Fellowship of Christian Athletes on October 9, 2021
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
None
BIDS
Public Works Director Jeff Schwartz explained that the bid being considered was for replacement of curbs and asphalt on the roadway utilizing Motor Fuel Tax funds. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Castellari to Approve The Bid From Howell Paving Inc. For Frazier, Nancy and Sara Drive In The Amount Of $215,124.98.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
The Public Works Director stated that this bid being considered was for the 100 block of N. Pine and S. Pine and Sycamore. He stated that this was the area around the library. He also noted that 1967 was the last time this roadway had been worked on and the funding was utilizing Motor Fuel Tax as well. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Castellari to Approve The Bid From Howell Paving Inc. For Sycamore and Pine In The Amount Of $128,066.67.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
ORDINANCES
Public Works Director Schwartz stated that the brass meters that are part of this surplus will be sold for scrap by the City. Acting City Manager Sherman stated that the 1993 truck would be declared surplus property as well. A motion was made by Councilman Castellari and seconded by Councilman Jackson 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 Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
Chief Dodson explained that this intersection has been discussed by the department heads due to traffic issues. He stated that a stop sign was put in this area following a pedestrian being hit there in the past, but then later removed. He stated that from coming from 3rd St. to that intersection, it can be a blind spot and hazardous. He noted that his officers have had problems as well since it is a main egress for emergency calls. He stated that having a stop sign would slow people down and it would be good for the number of pedestrians that cross Locust St. there. He noted that for both public safety and vehicle safety a stop sign should be there. Mayor Kuder asked when the stop sign was removed, and Chief Dodson stated that it was approximately 3 years ago. Councilman Castellari asked if a LED solar powered stop sign was ever considered. He stated that since there are many people in that area, it would make drivers more alert. Jeff Schwartz noted that the lighting would flash 24/7 that may possibly disturb residents living in the area. Mayor Kuder asked what the cost would be for the LED sign. Public Works Director Schwartz estimated $900 per sign. That option was discussed and considered with Councilman Castellari that the option be reviewed. It was noted by the Police Chief that the LED signs would only be needed on Locust. A motion was made by Councilman Jackson and seconded by Councilman Smith to Approve An Ordinance Establishing A Four Way Stop At The Intersection Of Third Street And Locust.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
Acting City Manager Sherman stated that this TIF agreement was initially approved for Gebke, LLC to acquire Quality Sports Nets. He stated this modification is being requested due to the Small Business Association taking more time than expected and the closing date was delayed. He stated that since they are approximately 3 months late finalizing the agreement, it was recommended to approve a modification using the new dates for so there would be a full year before repayment. Councilman Castellari asked when the repayment would begin and Mr. Sherman explained that this is a forgivable TIF loan for $100,000.00. He stated that it is repayable for 5 years at $20,000 for each year and this would only be if they chose to no longer locate their business there. A motion was made by Councilman Jackson and seconded by Councilman Smith to Approve An Ordinance Approving A Modified Redevelopment Agreement By And Between The City Of Centralia And Gebke, LLC.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
RESOLUTIONS
Mayor Kuder apologized to Vernell Burris that it has taken so long to approve the dedication of the raodway. Vernell Burris thanked Mayor Kuder. Mayor Kuder explained that on September 11th at 1 p.m. the sign dedication will be held. Mayor Kuder also noted that the City Clerk has spoken to Roland Burris to coordinate his attendance as well. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jackson to Approve A Resolution Dedicating A Portion Of Maple Street From Broadway To Rexford As “Roland Burris Way”.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
Acting City Manager Sherman stated that they have considered getting a new City Attorney and they wanted to bring an attorney on staff that is local. He noted that while the firm is not in Centralia, William Smith, the attorney that will be representing the City is from Centralia. He stated that he is excited to be working with him and moving forward. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jackson to Approve A Resolution Approving The Appointment Of The Law Office Of Black, Ballard, McDonald, P.C. As City Attorney And Approving A Fee Agreement.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
Public Works Director Jeff Schwartz stated that there was approximately 300’ of tracks that is in serious need of repair that caused a derailment. He stated that it is in the area north of Cahill Drive. He stated that this is the same company that did work previously on the track. Councilman Smith asked for clarification concerning which businesses utilize it. Public Works Director Schwartz stated that it distributes to Hawkins or Graphics. Councilman Smith also verified that it is the City’s spur and responsibility. Director Schwartz stated that it is the City’s property. Mayor Kuder asked if it was determined what the root cause of the derailment was. Director Schwartz stated that it was the railroad ties and he discussed the maintenance and responsibility of maintenance. Councilman Castellari explained that the City owns this railroad spur which is a benefit to the City to attract businesses that can utilize the tracks. He stated that he thinks that a preventative maintenance schedule and inspections need to be done on a regular schedule. He stated that it is an important asset to keep and increase business. Mayor Kuder asked if it was temporarily fixed at this time and Director Schwartz stated that it is temporarily fixed at this time until the permanent maintenance is completed by this contractor. He stated that he expects to have more maintenance next year. He added that the City has done some maintenance each year instead of all at once due to cost. Acting City Manager Sherman stated that it is important to have this spur for industries in the Industrial Park. A motion was made by Councilman Castellari and seconded by Councilman Jackson to Approve A Resolution Waiving The Bidding Requirements And Accepting A Proposal From Ironhorse, Inc. For Railroad Maintenance In The Amount Of $34,545.00.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
Chief Lynch stated that this proposal is to replace the two window units in the Fire Department and be more cost effective and more efficient for heating and air. Chief Dodson stated that this is in the area where the current dispatch is and instead of buying a window unit that won’t keep up, it makes more sense to get HVAC that will eventually be needed when the transition of the offices are eventually made in the near future. Acting City Manager Sherman stated that with the other work that is taking place, this is just another step in the transition, and it is best to do it right instead of a band aid fix. He also noted that this is in the budget. A motion was made by Councilman Jackson and seconded by Councilman Castellari to Approve A Resolution Waiving The Bidding Requirements And Accepting A Proposal From Brown’s Heating & Air Conditioning For An Air Conditioner In The Amount Of $11,236.00.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
OTHER BUSINESS
None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Acting City Manager Derek Sherman stated that the organization chart is being revised back to what it was before it was changed with the last City Manager. He stated that the main change is the focus on a change with the administrative roles and patrol officers to ensure the funds are available for patrol officer roles. He also stated that there is also an adjustment to put the Assistant City Manager on the same level as all department heads for authority. A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Castellari to Approve A Resolution Adopting A Revised Organizational Chart For The City Of Centralia.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried.
REPORTS
City Treasuer Agee stated that the 1st distribution of Clinton County property taxes have been received in the approximate amount of $429,000.00. He stated that approximately $200,000.00 was for the general fund and $149,000.00 to the TIF 5 fund and the remaining to small miscellaneous funds. He reported that he expects the Maron County distribution soon as well which will be larger than Clinton County. He stated that 80% of the property tax received comes from Marion County.
Mayor Kuder asked for clarification about the reimbursement of TIF funds. City Treasurer Agree stated that when the money is received for TIF 3, TIF 6 will be reimbursed for the $75,000.00 that was transferred last month.
Acting City Manager Sherman stated that the Centralia Regional Career Expo was this past weekend. He stated that there were approximately 95 job seekers with some hires made during the event. He stated that they are continuing to follow up with the businesses and jobseekers. He also thanked Castle Ridge for sponsoring the event, the Career Expo staff and businesses and job seekers that participated. He stated that the centralia.works website is still available to be used by businesses and jobseekers to fill the open position in the community.
Councilman Castellari thanked the people in attendance at the meeting and encouraged others to also attend and provide feedback to the City Council. He also congratulated and welcomed Attorney Smith. He asked Treasurer Agee to confirm that the state was no longer behind on payments. Treasurer Agee stated that they are current on the state share revenues. He stated that he would have to review the correctional center water bills but noted that they were all caught up at the end of their fiscal year. Councilman Castellari explained that the Council will continue to be transparent and share any information they can.
Councilman Smith welcomed Attorney Smith. He also thanked those that volunteered for the Balloon Fest and congratulated the Balloon Fest staff on a successful event. He also thanked the Clean and Green Committee for their clean up efforts. He also thanked the staff and those that participated in the Career Expo. He stated that he was able to attend it on Friday afternoon and hoped it was beneficial to fill some of the job openings.
Councilman Jackson stated that he had the opportunity to spend the weekend at Balloon Fest and served on the steering committee. He stated that there is an amazing group of people that organize and take part in the event each year. He stated that there are over 250 volunteers in addition to the steering committee and others involved. He noted the positive image it creates for the community. He discussed the flights and balloon glows that took place over the course of the event and the amount of positive feedback. He recognized the Centralia Chamber for a successful event.
Mayor Kuder explained that Kaskaskia College reached out to the Council to arrange for a Council Meeting at the KC Crisp Center. He noted that it is tentatively being planned for the October 12th meeting with more details being coordinated. Mayor Kuder explained that Police testing took place over the weekend. Joel Brooks stated that 14 applicants took the written test and one officer also turned in an application for the secondary list and they are in the process of completing a background check. He stated that he was happy with the turnout. Chief Dodson stated that this is the best group of applicants and feels it is promising. He stated that he has four spots reserved at the January academy and will be hiring the top 4 candidates on this list. He stated that they are also in the process of hiring the lateral applicant as well. He also thanked the Police and Fire Board due to them normally only needing to do this once every two years, but this will be the 7th hiring list completed. Mayor Kuder noted that he was able to attend the testing and explained how eager the applicants were. Mayor Kuder thanked the Fire Department and discussed the display of equipment the Fire Department had during Balloon Fest. Mayor Kuder thanked City Hope Church, Clean and Green and the Public Works crews for cleaning up and also preparing for Balloon Fest. Mayor Kuder noted the time and preparation that went into the planning of the Career Expo. He reported that he was able to attend both days. He stated that he doesn’t think that people realize the amount and quality of jobs available. He encouraged resident to continue to apply for the jobs that are available. Mayor Kuder announced that Celebrate Centralia will be taking place on October 9th downtown and planning is beginning. Mayor Kuder congratulated Attorney Smith and welcomed him. Mayor Kuder stated that he is eager, motivated, and from Centralia so they are happy to have him aboard. Mayor Kuder stated that his wife and himself sponsored a balloon once again this year at Balloon Fest. He stated that he had the opportunity to visit with many of the pilots as he has in the past and asked them if they like Centralia’s Balloon Fest. He said that each one that he asked said that it is one of the best that they participate in including Albuquerque. He reported that the pilots like how well ran it is, how family orientated it is, and the atmosphere of the event in Centralia. He said there were no bad reviews and overwhelming positive comments. He thanked the Chamber of Commerce, Police and Fire Departments and everyone that was involved in the event.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Councilman Jackson To Adjourn The Meeting.
Ayes: Councilman Castellari, Councilman Smith, Councilman Jackson, and Mayor Kuder
Nays: None
A majority of the Council voting aye, the motion carried, and the meeting was adjourned at 6:42 p.m.
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