Illinois Valley Times

City of LaSalle Finance Committee met April 28

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

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

ROLL CALL

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

Absent - NONE

Others Present: Deputy Clerk Brent Bader, Finance Director John Duncan, Economic Development Director Curt Bedei, Fire Chief Jerry Janick, City Engineer Brian Brown, City Treasurer Virigina Kochanowski

A quorum was present.

Moved by Alderman Reynolds and seconded by Alderman Thompson to approve the amended minutes from April 14, 2025.

Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.

Chairman Ptak started the discussion in regard to the request from Steve Michelini for a Redevelopment Incentive Program grant totaling $12,500 for premises located at 2968 St. Vincents Ave. Alderman Crane confirmed the building is the old Key Outdoor Location. Chairman Ptak clarifies the scope of the project, which is limited to the front of the building, and not the entire structure. Stephanie Michelini explained the project involving siding for the front of the building, with no roof work planned. Michelini also confirmed the use of SmartBoard siding and mentions that the color is undecided.

Moved by Alderman Thompson and seconded by Alderman Rerynolds to approve the request from Steve Michelini for a Redevelopment Incentive Program grant totaling $12,500 for premises located at 2968 St. Vincents Ave.

ROLL CALL

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

NAYS: NONE Absent: NONE Abstain: Alderman Crane

MOTION CARRIED: 7-0-1

Chairman Ptak introduced the discussion on a potential recommendation regarding the purchase of a sponsorship for the La Salle Business Association. Ptak reads a statement from the LBA president, clarifying that the LBA does not expect a donation and appreciates the city’s support. Chairman Ptak passed over the LBA sponsorship request, acknowledging it was a mistake to send the letter.

Chairman Ptak introduced the discussion on a one-year renewal for GSLI’s economic development consulting services.

Economic Development Director Curt Bedei provided an update on GSLI’s activities including attending conventions and interacting with potential clients.

Bedei also mentioned the CEO of GSLI visited LaSalle and was impressed with the community.

Chairman Ptak outlines the costs involved in the membership: $8,500 for Elite Cities Membership, $11,250 for the Industrial Lighthouse Campaign, $11,500 for the retail lighthouse campaign, totaling $31,000. The city does get a $5,000 community growth grant so the cost to the city would be $26,000.

Bedei noted the retail campaign was recommended by the CEO after his visit.

Chairman Ptak suggested giving GSLI a longer contract to allow for more time to see results. Alderman Lavieri and Alderman Jeppson also agreed that a one-year contract is not sufficient.

Moved by Alderman Reynolds and seconded by Alderman Lavieri to renew the $26,000 contract with Global Site Location Industries.

ROLL CALL

AYES: Chairman Ptak, Aldermen Bacidore, Reynolds, Lavieri, Jeppson, Herndon

NAYS: Alderman Thompson, Crane Absent: NONE Abstain: NONE

MOTION CARRIED: 6-2

OLD BUSINESS/BILLS

Alderman Lavieri inquired about the reimbursement to Beck’s. Finance Director Duncan mentioned that the reimbursement set amount is $600,000. 

There were no questions or comments from the public.

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

Voice vote, all ayes. Motion carried.

Chairman Ptak adjourned the meeting at 6:13 p.m.

https://www.lasalle-il.gov/sites/default/files/agendas-minutes/2025-05/4-28-25.pdf