Illinois Valley Times

City of LaSalle Finance Committee met Dec. 23

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

Chairman Ptak called the Meeting to order at 6:00 pm

ROLL CALL

Present – Aldermen Bacidore, Thompson, Reynolds, Lavieri, Herndon, Chairman Ptak

Excused Absent – Alderman Jeppson, Alderman Crane

Moved by Alderman Lavieri and seconded by Alderman Reynolds to allow Alderman Crane to attend the meeting remotely.

Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.

ROLL CALL

Present – Aldermen Bacidore, Thompson, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Herndon, Alderman Crane (remotely via phone call), Chairman Ptak

Absent – Alderman Jeppson

Others Present: Others Present: Deputy Clerk Brent Bader, Economic Development Director Curt Bedei, City Attorney James McPhedran, City Engineer Brian Brown, Fire Chief Jerry Janick, City Treasurer Virginia Kochanowski,

A quorum was present.

Moved by Alderman Reynolds and seconded by Alderman Thompson to approve the minutes from December 9, 2024.

Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.

Chairman Ptak began the discussion in regard to the request that was tabled last meeting in regard to the monetary donation from the Illinois Valley Food Pantry.

Chairman Ptak did ask Mr. Korter if he was able to explain the difference in amounts over the last couple years with grant money that was once coming it. Three years ago, they had received $33,000 and the last two years has only been $500. Mr. Korter is on the board but he said that he was unable to answer that question clearly but would get that response for the committee.

Alderman Thompson asked Chairman Ptak and Finance Director Duncan if there was a line within the budget that the city would be able to possibly take from in regard to a  larger donation such as this. Finance Director stated that they definitely take a look at this when they begin their budget appropriations.

Mr. Korter explained the funding for meals served to LaSalle residents includes perishable and non-perishable goods, leading to a $50 package per resident.

Finance Director John Duncan inquired about the final numbers for the Christmas drive, with Mr. Korter stating that he believes they served 250 meals, a bit less than Thanksgiving. Mr. Korter praised Chief Smudzinski for organizing the Christmas drive smoothly, despite the lower turnout.

Duncan suggested budgeting for future drives when they begin to discuss the budget for the next fiscal year.

Alderman Bacidore inquired about the funding source for the NCAT with Finance Director Duncan explaining it comes from community relations, which was budgeted this past fiscal year.

Mr. Korter discusses the challenges of finding a suitable building and land for a new facility, mentioning the Schweickert family’s reluctance to sell the land. He also detailed the high cost of renovating existing buildings, such as the old IGA building, which required significant repairs. Mr. Korter also emphasized the importance of having a clear plan before seeking donations for constructing a new facility.

Chairman Ptak acknowledged, and believes that the entire committee would also agree, that the Food Pantry is a very worthwhile and beneficial organization to the community.

He wants the committee to look at their numbers and discuss a donation when they have their budget appropriations meeting in 2025.

Moved by Alderman Lavieri and seconded by Alderman Thompson to approve the request from Robert Donovan on behalf of the Dog House for a Rebuild Downtown LaSalle Program (RCLP) grant totaling $2,040 for premises located at 848 1st Street.

ROLL CALL

AYES: Aldermen Bacidore, Thompson, Reynolds, Lavieri, Herndon, Crane, Chairman Ptak

NAYS: NONE Absent: Alderman Jeppson Abstain: NONE

MOTION CARRIED: 7-0

There were no questions on the bills. 

City Engineer Brown discussed the need for sewer cleaning along First Street, noting the high amount of debris and potential for sewage backups. He also explained the increased costs of cleaning the sewer due to the extensive debris and the need for mechanical removal. Brown outlined the plan to clean the sewer and explore grants and low-interest loans for repairs. He emphasized the importance of cleaning the sewer to improve the downtown conditions and reduce odors.

City Engineer Brown also provided historical context, noting the sewer’s age and its part in an old, combined sewer system. He explained the challenges of repairing the sewer due to its depth and age, and the need for long-term stability. Brown mentioned ongoing efforts to separate the sewers and the potential for future grants to support these repairs. He also acknowledges the need for continued maintenance and the potential for significant costs. He wanted the committee to know that this project and bid amounts will be presented to them in the very near future.

There were no questions or comments from the public.

Moved by Alderman Reynolds and seconded by Alderman Thompson to adjourn the meeting.

Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.

Chairman Ptak adjourned the meeting at 6:21 p.m.

https://www.lasalle-il.gov/sites/default/files/agendas-minutes/2025-01/12-23-24.pdf