City of La Salle City Council met June 15.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
A regular meeting of the La Salle City Council of La Salle, Illinois and Public Hearing was held at 6:30 p.m. Mayor Jeff Grove presiding with proper notices being duly and continuously posted.
The meeting was called to order at 6:33 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MOMENT OF REFLECTION
Mayor Grove asked anyone who chose to participate to join him in taking a minute or two of silence to reflect on how each of us personally can make a difference during these difficult days. He said there is so much going on in the world that it is a good time to take a look at where we are individually and consider where we want to be.
ROLL CALL
Present- Aldermen Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson Excused Absence: Alderman Herndon
Late Arrival: Alderman Crane (6:38 p.m. due to work conflict)
A quorum was present.
PUBLIC HEARING
Moved by Alderman Lavieri and seconded by Alderman Bacidore to open the Public Hearing to receive comment concerning the Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program (DSBSP) application funded by the State of Illinois Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Inman explained that the purpose of this hearing is to present the applicant for the Downstate Small Business Stabilization Grant. In 2019, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity allocated $4,000,000 for Economic Development funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Program. With the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus and its detrimental impact on small businesses, the State is invoking its option to adjust allocations to address specific needs to benefit Illinois’ non-entitlement communities in case of unforeseen circumstances, as included in the Consolidated and Action Plans. This allocation, along with unspent and recaptured funds from previous allocations will be made eligible in a total of $20,000,000 for the DOWNSTATE SMALL BUSINESS STABILIZATION PROGRAM. Mrs. Inman stated that 1.3 million has already been allocated.
Information about this grant has been published in the NewsTribune, posted on the City Hall doors and posted on our website, along with the application.
The City of La Salle assembled a subcommittee of 2 members from the Economic Development Committee consisting Alderman Ptak and Alderman Lavieri as well as myself to review the submitted applications for completeness, community impact, and the need for working capital. This review does not guarantee an approval of grant funds by the state, simply our approval to submit the applications on behalf of the City of La Salle, the local municipality.
For this second round of applicants, the city has received one completed application requesting the full amount of the grant, $25,000. The applicant is Fajitas Mexican Restaurant #2 Inc. Fajita’s has a brick and mortar location within the city limits of La Salle and have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 related shutdowns and limitations have made their working capital impaired.
Mrs. Inman continued by saying that as of the start of this meeting, no written comments or concerns had been received related to this hearing or the application.
Fajita's Mexican Restaurant is a member of the food and beverage industry in La Salle, Illinois that services the La Salle - Peru community. Owners of Fajita’s Mexican Restaurant conveyed in the application that the COVID-19 pandemic has created conditions that pose health and welfare risks to both their customers and employees. They have responded by adapting their business model and offering curbside pick-up along with carryout to serve our community. There is also uncertainty of when they may be allowed to reopen at full capacity. This in turn, has limited their ability to serve the community at full capacity and has resulted in some layoffs. This grant money will help maintain working capital to sustain operating needs and adjustments, and to retain human capital. Grant award money will be used to retain 3 employees in full-time pay, and 1-2 employees on part-time hours. These employees are part of the La Salle - Peru community and are eager to get back to work.
Mrs. Inman then opened the hearing up to public questions.
Mrs. Inman mentioned that she had spoken with her counterparts in Peru and Utica, and reviewed the award listing for Spring Valley. The Village of North Utica had received notice and award for 3 out of 4 and had submitted their applications on May 6th, Peru on May 8th and La Salle on May 7th. Applicants were told not to follow-up with the DCEO as it could slow down the processing of the grants and awards. She then told the audience she would remain in contact with surrounding communities to inquire on their award status, if any.
There were no further comments from the public. All individuals who were present at the Public Hearing are included on Exhibit #1.
A resolution of support will be voted on at the regularly scheduled City Council meeting immediately following this hearing. Upon execution of such resolution, the application will be forwarded on to Springfield for the state’s approval.
It was moved by Alderman James Demes and seconded by Alderman Jerry Reynolds to adjourn the Public Hearing.
Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
The public hearing was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Moved by Alderman Demes and seconded by Alderman Reynolds to accept and place on file the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council held June 1, 2020. Each and every alderman has a copy.
Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
PETITIONS
Moved by Alderman Demes and seconded by Alderman Reynolds to refer the request from Joe and Pam Nichols, residents of 343 Fourth Street, for a front yard setback variance from 25’ to 13’ to construct a deck and attached stairs to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Each and every alderman has a copy. Each and every alderman has a copy.
Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
Moved by Alderman Ptak and seconded by Alderman Reynolds to grant the request to break curb for driveway from Keith McKinley, resident of 1227 Sixth Street. Each and every alderman has a copy.
Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS
Moved by Alderman Ptak and seconded by Alderman Lavieri to accept and place on file the Treasurer’s Report for May 2020 showing total cash balances in La Salle State Bank of $7,829,018.79 and in Hometown National Bank of $4,045,870.07
Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
Moved by Alderman Bacidore and seconded by Alderman Reynolds to accept and place on file the Building Inspector’s Report for May 2020 showing total fees collected of $2,261.24 with total value of construction of $317,165.68. Each and every alderman has a copy.
Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
COMMUNICATIONS
Moved by Alderman Ptak and seconded by Alderman Lavieri to accept and place on file the Illinois Department of Revenue Report showing sales tax collected for March 2020 of $63,353.88 and Home Rule Sales Tax of $52,880 for a total of $116,234.16. Each and every alderman has a copy.
Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
STANDING COMMITTEES
Moved by Alderman Bacidore and seconded by Alderman Ptak to accept the recommendation of the Streets, Alleys and Traffic Committee to deny the request from Robert Bulak for a stop sign northbound and southbound at the intersection of Crosat and 15th Streets.
Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.
Prior to the vote, Alderman Bacidore explained to newer aldermen to the council, that years ago, when Don Aleksy was Economic Development Director, the City spent $125,000 to hire a company named Retail Strategies to assist with economic development. At that time the City was told that our biggest problem was that there were not enough empty buildings available for all the businesses they were going to bring in. That did not happen. He then explained that two years later, the City joined NCIEDC who said they would bring in factories and industry. That has not happened. Alderman Bacidore said all the business news channels are saying that it will be at least a year before factories are built because of coronavirus. Alderman Bacidore was concerned about giving another $12,500 to NCIEDC as he does not believe any industry will come in until there is a cure or vaccine for the coronavirus. Alderman Bacidore continued by saying that the council always justifies the investment by saying that it gives our Economic Development Directors more “tools.” His concern is that the council keeps throwing out this cash, which supposedly the City doesn’t have, until it comes to things like this. Alderman Bacidore continued by saying you are not going to build a factory to the north, south or west. The most promising property is to the east (Kildare, LLC owned by Gahlberg). He continued by explaining that Gahlberg owns from Rt. 39 to the curve on Rt. 6. He explained that he runs a multi-million dollar operation, so he probably has more “tools” than anyone and he has not put one thing out there in all the years he has owned the property. Alderman Bacidore questioned why we think this group will do any better than Gahlberg. We have gotten nothing in two years for our $25,000. Alderman Bacidore ended by saying we are expecting a different outcome when nothing has changed, so in his opinion it is like throwing away another $12,500 that we don’t have.
Mayor Grove reminded the council that in 2009 when the City hired Don Aleksy as Economic Development Director the country was just coming off a recession. Many questioned why the Mayor and council would hire Don when nothing was going on. The Mayor said his goal was to be positioned so when things turned around the City was ready. Mayor said he believes we have done a good job, especially with not having someone in the role previously. He said we may not be exactly where we need to be yet, but with the help of downtown businesses and developers, things are going well.
Mayor Grove reminded Alderman Bacidore that he voted in favor of bringing on Retail Strategies. Alderman Bacidore defended his vote because it was based on what they were promising at the time. The Mayor said that the entire council was hopeful and felt it was worth the chance, but sometimes things don’t work out as planned.
Mayor Grove said that NCIEDC has had a recent change in leadership and the group promotes the entire area, not just La Salle.
Economic Development Director Leah Inman stated that she has gotten more leads from this group than anyone else. Mayor Grove asked Mrs. Inman to give the council updates as she gets various leads.
Mayor Grove said another benefit of Retail Strategies was that they had the means to represent us at larger retail shows which gave us exposure to major companies. Mayor said that unfortunately it did not work out, but it was a good effort and we learned from it.
Alderman Demes used a fishing analogy to counter Alderman Bacidore. Alderman Demes stated that just because you don’t get a bite in a certain spot, you keep putting your pole back in the water. Alderman Bacidore responded by saying that if he didn’t get a bite in one spot, he would move to try something different.
Alderman Reynolds commented that in his view you should always look to the future. He said, there are no guarantees, but it is worth to make the investment as you never know when an opportunity may arise. He stated that we need to be prepared. Alderman Jeppson agreed and supported a proactive approach for the future.
Alderman Bacidore ended by saying that we need to learn from the past.
Moved by Alderman Ptak and seconded by Alderman Lavieri to accept the recommendation of the Finance Committee to authorize, pay and place on file Invoice #20140 from the North Central Illinois Economic Development Corporation (NCIEDC) totaling $12,492 for annual membership fees for fiscal year 2020-2021. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Mayor Grove, Alderman Demes, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane NAY: Alderman Bacidore Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion carried 6-1
Moved by Alderman Ptak and seconded by Alderman Jeppson to accept the recommendation of the Finance Committee to authorize, pay and place on file Invoice #10 from Starved Rock Country Alliance totaling $1,000 for 2020 annual funding. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: Alderman Bacidore Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion carried 6-1
OLD BUSINESS
Moved by Alderman Lavieri and seconded by Alderman Crane to authorize, pay, and place on file Pay Estimate #1 to Universal Asphalt & Excavating Inc. totaling $262,407.74 for work completed to date on the 2020 MFT Road Improvements Project. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: None Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion Carried 7-0
Alderman Bacidore said he receives complaints once or twice a month about our catch basins being full. He wondered if it would be possible to hire a few IVCC students part-time to take on these types of projects. Alderman Crane stated that he would like to see part-time positions take on other tasks, so it would free up our full-time staff to do work of that nature with our vactor truck. Mayor stated that at this time when our full-time staffs’ hours were reduced due to COVID, he could not justify giving work to new part-time employees. However, the Mayor did extend his thanks to those residents who make the effort to clear debris from the catch basins, especially after rainfall.
NEW BUSINESS
City Engineer Brian Brown briefly explained the sewer lining process and the cost savings to the City for the above project. He said the project went very well.
Moved by Alderman Crane and seconded by Alderman Lavieri to authorize, pay and place on file Invoice #7593-9-PV totaling $13,560 to Pipe Vision Products for the installation of 277’ of 8” Sanitary Sewer Liner with sewer service reinstatements on 11th Street from east of Tonti Street to Crosat and the cleaning, televising and robotic removal of failed sections of sewer main. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: None Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion Carried 7-0
Moved by Alderman Crane and seconded by Alderman Jeppson to authorize, pay and place on file Invoice #060920LASWEN totaling $6,000 to Midwest Testing Services Inc. for Geotechnical work for the 24th Street proposed improvements. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: None Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion Carried 7-0
Superintendent Bumgarner said that he provided detailed information for the next two agenda items during the Finance Meeting. He explained that the anaerobic digester at the Southside Wastewater plant which uses no oxygen, produces methane which is flammable therefore requires many safety precautions to be taken in the building. This creates additional cost. With aerobic digestion, oxygen is used therefore would reduce some costs and would keep the building and employees safer.
Moved by Alderman Lavieri and seconded by Alderman Jeppson to authorize Option #3 totaling $687,756 for the rehab of an anaerobic digester to aerobic digestion at the Southside Wastewater Plant and related matters. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: None Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion Carried 7-0
Superintendent Bumgarner stated that he recommends the City goes with the bid from Suez totaling $164,800 for the new membranes for the Eastside Wastewater plant.
Moved by Alderman Lavieri and seconded by Alderman Demes to accept the bid from Suez Water Technologies and Solution regarding the purchase of new membranes for the Eastside Wastewater Plant at a total cost of $164,800. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: None Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion Carried 7-0
In regard to liquor license fees, Alderman Bacidore explained that during the shelter in place, while bars were closed and restaurants were limited to delivery and pick-up and could not have gaming, he suggested that the City waive liquor license fees for 2020. He said that this would come at a cost of approximately $20,000 to the City, but believed once all re-opened the money would come back to the City through gaming revenue and sales tax. He said in this circumstance, at least the City would get some money back. Economic Development Director Leah Inman said that in her conversations with bar and restaurant owners, only one person brought this up. Alderman Bacidore said he has spoken to 8-10 bar owners and they were for it. Alderman Jeppson suggested perhaps pro-rating the license fees to 75% off or half price. Alderman Demes stated that the fees should be left as is, as this is just a cost of doing business. Alderman Jeppson said he would be comfortable with a 3 month reduction, to which Alderman Reynolds agreed. The Mayor then asked where we draw the line. He asked if we should also then pro-rate contractor license fees, rental fees, tap on fees or building permits. The Mayor said everyone has been affected by the shut-down to some degree and some businesses are doing well, where others are not. How do you pick and choose and become judge and jury?
Moved by Alderman Demes and seconded by Alderman Jeppson to leave the liquor license fees as they are now.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Mayor Grove, Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: Alderman Bacidore Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion carried 6-1
ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
Moved by Alderman Lavieri and seconded by Alderman Reynolds to approve and place on file Resolution 202010: a La Salle City Council Resolution of Support (Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program) Fajita’s Mexican Restaurant #2 Inc. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: None Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion carried 7-0
Resolution 202010: A La Salle City Resolution of Support (Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program) Fajita’s Mexican Restaurant #2 Inc.
Moved by Alderman Demes and seconded by Alderman Reynolds to approve and place on file Ordinance 2888: An Ordinance Authorizing the Acquisition of real estate commonly known as 328 Chartres Street, La Salle, Illinois from La Salle County as trustee. Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Crane
NAY: None Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion Carried 7-0
Ordinance 2888: Authorizing the Acquisition of real estate commonly known as 328 Chartres Street, La Salle, Illinois from La Salle County as trustee.
COMMENTS
Mayor Grove wished a happy belated birthday to Alderman Tom Ptak.
Mayor pointed out the new look of the council chambers which includes the ability to project the agenda and any other items or presentations so that they can be seen by those in attendance. Mayor said it should allow us to become a bit more “green” by reducing the number of paper copies.
Mayor Grove thanked the contractor for the work they are doing on City roadwork, as it is going very quickly. He also thanked City Engineer Brown and his intern Ryan Lane. Mr. Brown stated that he hopes a majority of the work will be done by the end of the week.
Mayor Grove stated that it is looking hopeful that the state will enter Phase 4 in coming weeks, so there are plans for the pool to open if the Governor allows. All guidelines will be met and discussions are underway as to the methods to adhere to those guidelines. Park Director Lynda Kasik does have outdoor summer programs being offered and they are posted on the website.
Alderman Demes asked about our Rotary Park extension. City Engineer Brown stated that we are waiting on funding.
Mayor Grove announced that the City Hall lobby will open on Monday, July 6, 2020. With the current water bill due in July, payment in full and late fees will be expected. If residents are facing a financial hardship and have outstanding amounts due from previous months, they can contact the billing department to set up a payment plan for those past due amounts, but the current bill must be paid in full. The City will be doing water shut-offs beginning in July if payment is not made in full.
Mayor Grove commended the peaceful demonstrations that took place recently. He said there was one walk from Casey’s to City Hall with over 200 people in attendance. He said there was good police presence to protect those who were walking as well as those observing. Mayor said these peaceful demonstrations gave him a renewed sense of our First Amendment rights to voice our opinions, express differences, hear them, and then move on. He said there was a second demonstration last Wednesday that also was peaceful and the organizers work closely with Chief Uranich. Mayor thanked the organizers, those who walked, and our police department who ensured these occurred respectfully and peacefully.
Leah Inman announced a meeting being held at Hegeler Park on June 23, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to meet with potential vendors for our Farmer’s Market. The Farmer’s Market will begin on July 7, 2020 and will continue each Tuesday from 3-6 p.m. at the northwest corner of Hegeler Park.
Mrs. Inman also announced that Jazz N’ the Streets and BBQ n Blues has been cancelled for 2020, however all the bands have been re-signed for 2021.
Alderman Demes stated that the 50/50 drawing will be held after the tree lighting ceremony during the Miracle on First event in December, however an early bird $500 drawing will be held in July. Tickets will be mailed with the June water bills and tickets can also be purchased at City Hall once the lobby opens in July.
Mayor Grove thanked La Salle residents and Illinois Valley residents for patronizing restaurants by dining outdoors, carry-outs or delivery.
Mayor Grove introduced Brent Bader as the new Director of Public Relations and Community Development as well as our Deputy Clerk. He thanked Brent for his assistance with getting the new screens in the council chambers.
Alderman Reynolds reminded residents that loose garbage is not allowed in the cans. Garbage must be place in bags, to prevent catch basins from being blocked, as well as just keeping the City looking nice. Alderman Reynolds suggested that a reminder is added to the water bills both in English and Spanish.
APPROVAL OF BILLS
Moved by Alderman Ptak and seconded by Alderman Lavieri to accept, pay and place on file bills for June 15, 2020 with Total submitted of $471,406.58 (Total Payroll $188,928.51, Bills to be Paid $73,466.76, Total Bills Paid $209,011.31). Each and every alderman has a copy.
ROLL CALL: AYE: Alderman Demes, Bacidore, Ptak, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Herndon, Crane
NAY: None Absent: Alderman Herndon Abstain: None
Motion Carried 7-0
Moved by Alderman Reynolds and seconded by Alderman Crane to adjourn the meeting. Voice vote, all ayes. Motion is carried.
ADJOURNED 7:28 p.m.
https://www.lasalle-il.gov/sites/default/files/agendas-minutes/2020-06/6-15-2020_3.pdf
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