Public Meetings - Moline, Illinois

The meeting included a Committee-of-the-Whole session and regular City Council meeting on December 13, 2023. Key topics included recognition of retiring social workers, presentation of the Stormwater Master Plan, amendments to development and intergovernmental agreements, introduction of accessory dwelling unit regulations, and updates on special event and utility policies. All votes were unanimous (7-0). The meeting opened with a moment of silence for Alderman Pat O'Brien, who passed away over the weekend. Consent Calendar - Approved remote electronic attendance for Alderperson Macias due to personal illness. - Appointed Kirk Marske to the Public Art Commission for a two-year term expiring September 30, 2025. - Approved Consent Agenda items: appointments made during Committee-of-the-Whole and Resolution 14.1 (revised ARPA Childcare/Workforce Infrastructure Forgivable Loan Program Agreement with Western Illinois University Foundation). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during either the COW or Council portions. Discussion Items - Recognition of Outstanding Achievement for the Center for Youth and Family Solutions (CYFS): Police Chief presented Outstanding Achievement Awards to Tony Riordan (COO, retiring after 46 years) and Nicole Sodawasser (Social Worker, retiring after 26 years) for their work co-locating social workers in the Moline Police Department. Statistics: Since August 2020, 4,144 cases referred; in the past 12 months, social workers completed 132+ ride-along shifts, 962 hours, and handled over 200 incidents. An additional 683 social worker hours were spent on Moline cases and 112 hours in schools. - Stormwater Master Plan: Scott DeSplinter (Crawford, Murphy & Tilly) presented findings. The stormwater system includes 119 miles of storm sewers, 4,600 catch basins, and 7 pump stations, with a 2023 replacement value of $297 million. Annual cost of ownership is $4.17 million ($2.97 million depreciation + $1.2 million O&M). Current revenue is $2 million. Recommendations included proactive asset management (assess entire system within 15 years), updates to ordinances (use of Bulletin 75 rainfall data, green infrastructure), and annual capital spending of $200,000 for rehabilitation, $200,000 for roadway drainage, and $200,000 for specific projects. Alderperson Timion raised concerns about burdens on commercial properties due to impervious surfaces; discussion on permit fee differences and the city's recent rate structure changes that allow commercial properties to be charged only for impervious surface. - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Alderpersons Timion and Macias introduced a draft ordinance to allow ADUs with regulations (e.g., owner-occupancy, rental registration enforcement via new rental housing inspection program). They noted ADUs already exist throughout the city and the goal is to legalize and regulate them. Council referred the draft to the Plan Commission for review. Alderperson Castro requested that short-term rentals (Airbnb) be prohibited in the ADU ordinance; Alderperson Timion agreed to include a minimum 30-day lease requirement. - Quad City Civic Center Amusement Tax Amendment: City Administrator Vitas explained the proposed amendment to the 1990 Intergovernmental Agreement. The current 5% amusement tax would be repealed; a 3% tax would remain and be kept by the city for downtown capital improvements (target $500,000 annually for 10 years), while 2% would be remitted to the Civic Center for sports team support. The Civic Center would true-up any shortfall from its $9 million operating reserve, provided it maintains a $5 million reserve. Financially, the arena is performing well. Council approved the resolution. - Illinois Domus, LLC Development Agreement (Fourth Amendment): City staff explained that the original minimum property tax value was never achieved; the amendment removes that minimum, maintains a 90/10 TIF split (city/developer), allows developer to receive TIF payments until the earlier of maximum payment or June 7, 2039 (TIF termination), and the developer agrees not to appeal assessments. The project (22 townhomes at 1300-1326 6th Avenue) is complete. Approved at COW and advanced to second reading. - Special Events Policy (8.1 – Informational): Assistant City Administrator Dykhuizen presented a proposed repeal of Special Ordinance 1080-2023 and a new policy. Legal concerns were raised about content-based funding decisions; staff recommended developing content-neutral criteria focused on public purpose (e.g., tourism, education). Council consensus was to have staff work with the committee to create such criteria. - Utility Customers Outside City Limits (8.2 – Informational): Director Loete proposed code changes to align water and sewer connection requirements, provide incentives (reduced rates) for non-contiguous customers who sign pre-annexation agreements, and increase rates to 300% of inside-city rates (state maximum). The changes will be brought back as a first reading ordinance in January 2024. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved all consent items (appointments and Resolution 14.1). - Unanimously approved non-consent second reading ordinances: lowering speed limit on 35th Avenue to 20 mph, adding parking prohibition on 29th Street, and adopting paid leave benefits for all workers. - Unanimously approved non-consent resolutions: authorizing TIF consulting services with PGAV Planners and a feasibility study for a downtown TIF district. - Advanced first reading ordinances to second reading: reducing Plan Commission member count, adjusting utility billing references (two ordinances), and the fourth amendment to the Domus development agreement. - Referred the Accessory Dwelling Unit draft ordinance to the Plan Commission. - Directed staff to develop content-neutral criteria for the special event funding policy. - Directed staff to bring back the outside utility customer code changes in January. - Council members expressed condolences for Alderman Pat O'Brien and recognized the 70th anniversary of the Moline Second Alarmers.

The City of Moline held a joint Committee-of-the-Whole (COW) and Regular City Council meeting on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting opened with a COW session that included an oath of office for a new police canine, followed by several resolutions related to TIF feasibility, housing grants, and child care infrastructure. After an informational session on the state's new paid leave law and the transition to monthly utility billing, the Council convened for its regular agenda, approving consent items, non-consent resolutions, and advancing first-reading ordinances, including a paid leave ordinance that will be amended to match state accrual requirements. Oath of Office - Police Canine Shiloh was formally sworn in as a commissioned police officer canine, effective November 11, 2023. Chief described Shiloh as a certified electronic storage detection canine trained to detect components in cell phones, assisting in investigations of child exploitation and human trafficking. The canine was fully funded by Operation Underground Railroad. Handler Detective Dave Callaway also took the oath. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during either the COW or the Regular Council meeting. Consent Calendar (Regular Council) - Approved the meeting minutes from November 14 and November 21, 2023. - Approved Resolution setting the 2024 annual meetings schedule. - Approved Resolution authorizing the purchase of signal equipment upgrades (Tactics Central) for $105,439.00. Discussion Items (Committee-of-the-Whole) - 6.1 Ordinance to Reduce Plan Commission Membership: Approved an ordinance amending Chapter 25 to reduce the number of Plan Commission members from 11 to 9, effective through attrition. The current number made it difficult to achieve quorum. Council member O'Brien clarified that no members were being removed. - 6.2 Resolution for TIF Consulting Services with PGAV Planners: Authorized a contract for professional services to study the feasibility of creating a TIF district in downtown Moline, specifically around the former JCPenney and dispatch buildings. Mr. Vitas noted PGAV has been the city's TIF consultant for over 30 years. - 6.3 Resolution for TIF Feasibility Study and Inducement: Approved an inducement resolution to allow expenditures (billable to future TIF proceeds) and established a study boundary for a potential downtown TIF (TIF 15). The area is bounded by 17th and 18th Streets, 4th and 5th Avenues. Alexandra Elias from Renew Moline and John David Schaufer from Bush Construction spoke in support, emphasizing the TIF's potential to spur additional development. Council members expressed excitement for the project. - 6.4 IHDA Home Repair Program Grant Resolution: Authorized a program funding agreement with the Illinois Housing Development Authority for a $1,000,000 grant under the Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund Home Repair Program. KJ (Community & Economic Development) explained the grant will support 16–20 homes with forgivable loans up to $60,000 for repairs (e.g., lead, windows). The grant allows up to 150% of area median income, a significant increase from typical 80%. The grant is for Moline only, as other cities did not respond to collaboration requests. Council member Castro asked about targeting; KJ responded it will be first-come, first-served, starting with three homes from a COVID-era waiting list. - 6.5 ARPA Childcare/Workforce Infrastructure Loan Agreement with Western Illinois University Foundation: Approved an agreement to provide upfront funding to Western Illinois University to establish a bilingual daycare center at the former Boys & Girls Club in Moline. The center will offer second-shift options. KJ noted this is the final piece of an ARPA-funded childcare initiative launched in 2021. Council member O'Brien asked about emergency childcare; KJ replied that the Level Up program (passed in October) addresses emergency needs, but capacity constraints remain. The daycare is expected to open early next year. Informational Items (Committee-of-the-Whole) - 7.1 Paid Leave for All Workers Act (Margaret Kostopulos): Corporation Counsel explained the Act, effective January 1, 2024, requires 40 hours of paid leave for full-time employees and 1 hour per 40 worked for part-time. The city currently offers 3–6 times that amount. To maintain existing policies and avoid the Act's

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate this meeting was held on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, but the provided date is November 30, 2023. This summary uses the provided date. The City of Moline held a combined Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council meeting on November 30, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included an oath of office, a proclamation, approval of the 2024 meeting schedule, and unanimous adoption of several ordinances and resolutions, including the FY2024 budget. Consent Calendar - Approved remote electronic attendance for Alderperson Jessica Finch due to personal illness. - Administered the oath of office to Quinn Sunderbruch, appointed to the rank of Firefighter/Paramedic (effective October 27, 2023). - Approved board appointments: Sam McCullum (reappointment to Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit District Board, term to November 2027); Kristen Bergren, Emily Freymann, and Mary Lind (reappointments to Keep Moline Beautiful Commission, terms to November 2026). The appointment of Joel Ryser to the Public Art Commission was withdrawn. - Approved a proclamation declaring November 25, 2023, as "Small Business Saturday," noting that 68 cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays in the local community and every dollar creates an additional 48 cents in local business activity. - Approved minutes from November 7, 2023, and appointments made at the November 21, 2023 Committee-of-the-Whole. - Approved Change Order No. 2 and final with Langman Construction, Inc., for the Bypass Sanitary Sewer Project (Project 1371) in the amount of $73,235.60. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - 2024 Annual Meeting Schedule (Resolution 8.1): City staff proposed reducing the number of round table sessions from 11 to 6, held in alternating months starting February 20, 2024, to allow more preparation time. Alderperson Schmidt moved to amend the schedule to move the November 5, 2024 meeting to November 12, 2024, due to Election Day. The amendment passed unanimously (8-0). The amended schedule was then approved unanimously (8-0). - FY2024 Budget Adoption (Resolution 17.1): The budget for the calendar year January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024 was adopted unanimously. Council thanked staff for their detailed work. - Other Non-Consent Items: Unanimous approval of: - Ordinance amending rental housing licensing requirements (Chapter 8, Article 7, Division 2). - Ordinance amending competitive sealed bidding procedures (Chapter 27, Section 27-3100). - Resolution amending FY2023 budget line items (Council Bill/Resolution No. 1167-2023). - Resolution authorizing a three-year Occupational Healthcare Services Agreement with Genesis Occupational Health (effective December 1, 2023). - Resolution authorizing a one-year Client Service Agreement with USI Insurance for brokerage services and binding coverage with IPMG and ACE American Insurance Company (effective December 1, 2023). - Miscellaneous Business: - Mayor Rayapati announced plans to create a sustainability advisory board and to explore making Moline a "dementia-friendly city" in partnership with the Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging and Project Now, with no cost and training for police, fire, and library. - Alderperson Timian reported on Bettendorf's new land use map and expressed enthusiasm for Moline's upcoming comprehensive plan update. - City Administrator Vitas thanked staff and council for their work on the budget and noted the introduction of a 10-year financial planning process. - Chief Galt promoted the Citizens Police Academy, encouraging council to spread the word. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (8-0) except where noted. - The 2024 meeting schedule was approved with an amendment to move the November 5 meeting to November 12. - The FY2024 budget was adopted. - All ordinances, resolutions, and contracts on the agenda were approved. - The meeting adjourned without an executive session.

The Moline City Council convened on November 15, 2023, for a Committee-of-the-Whole and regular City Council meeting. The meeting featured oaths of office for two new police officers, presentation of the Keep Moline Beautiful Super Hero Awards, unanimous approval of consent and most non-consent items, and a procedural debate on rental housing inspection requirements. The council also amended a purchasing ordinance threshold before advancing it to a second reading. Consent Calendar - Items 11.1–11.5 approved unanimously (8‑0). These included a sidewalk easement for Starbucks (151 19th Avenue), a professional services agreement with Retail Strategies LLC, a substantial amendment to the 2023 Annual Action Plan (CDBG funds), the 2024‑2026 Strategic Plan, and a $189,950 boiler replacement contract with Ragan Mechanical, Inc. for the Water Treatment Plant. Presentations & Oaths - Oath of Office – Officer Branden Bowden (effective November 4, 2023). Chief described Bowden’s career, including his battle with brain cancer and return to duty; he completed his probationary period. - Oath of Office – Officer Brady Lemke (effective November 4, 2023). Chief noted Lemke’s U.S. Marine Corps service, University of Iowa criminology degree, and previous experience with the Iowa DNR as a seasonal water patrol officer. - 2023 Keep Moline Beautiful Super Hero Awards presented by Pam Nelson, Commission Chair, to two recipients: - Rotary Club of Moline – honored for biannual litter pickup (Earth Day and fall) on high‑traffic corridors. Rotarian Alan Anderson coordinates the events; each volunteer collects 2–3 bags of trash per event. - Midland Davis Corporation – recognized for 130 years of recycling service. The company recently added a wood pallet refurbishing division, hiring 10 new employees, and provides cardboard compactors, curbside recycling, and a scrap drop‑off site. Discussion Items - Item 13.7 – Rental Housing Inspection Program (Ordinance amending Chapter 8). Assistant City Manager Dykheizen apologized for confusion created by a previous attempt to clarify language. Council voted to send the item back to staff for one week with specific stipulations: retain the body of the ordinance as passed September 26, include the November 7 amendment delaying late fee enforcement (no fees assessed before July 1, 2024), and make no changes to the fee table. Motion by Alderperson Timian, seconded by Finch; passed 8‑0. - Item 15.1 – Competitive Sealed Bidding (Ordinance amending Chapter 27, Section 27‑3100). Alderperson Timian moved to amend the threshold from $250,000 to $500,000, arguing the city’s current $1 million policy is not being enforced and $500,000 is more conservative. Alderperson O’Brien opposed, stating projects between $250,000 and $500,000 are at high risk for errors. The amendment passed on a 5‑4 vote (Mayor voted aye to break tie: Finch aye, O’Brien nay, Castro nay, Schmidt nay, Murphy nay, Messias aye, Razak aye, Timian aye). The motion to advance the amended ordinance to a second reading passed 8‑0. Other Business - Mayor reminded council that the budget resolution will be up for adoption at the next meeting and urged full attendance. He noted that future meetings during fall school breaks should be avoided to allow family time. - Staff reported that the Moline Fire Department has placed two new engines in service, loaned a reserve engine to Rock Island after two of their engines failed state inspection, and reached full staffing with the approval of three new firefighters. - Police Chief announced 53 officers participating in No‑Shave November, raising over $1,500 for Two Tribe (children affected by cancer). The department also won the “Boots vs. Badges” student hunger drive with 633 meals vs. fire’s 593, part of a record‑setting 818,468 meals raised across 17 high schools. - The city received a 2023 Premier Partner award from the Moline Coal Valley Chamber for its internship programs. Key Outcomes - Consent items 11.1–11.5 approved 8‑0. - Second‑reading ordinances 13.1 (parking changes on 14th/15th Avenue), 13.2 (parking changes on 40th Street), 13.3 (amusement tax increase from 5% to 10% effective January 1, 2024), 13.4 (2023 tax levy), 13.5 and 13.6 (special ad valorem taxes for SSA 5 and 6) – all approved 8‑0. - Item 13.7 sent back to staff with stipulations (motion passed 8‑0). - Resolutions 14.1 (final change order $24,807.10 for 2023 Alley Reconstruction with Five Cities Construction), 14.2 (reinsurance policy with UnitedHealthcare‑BP for 2024), and 14.3 (request to not extend 2024 taxes for several bond series) – all approved 8‑0. - Item 15.1 amended (threshold raised to $500,000 on 5‑4 vote) and advanced to second reading (8‑0). - Council moved into executive session for discussion of appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1)). Motion by Murphy, seconded by Timian, passed 8‑0.

Note: The agenda for this meeting was dated November 7, 2023, but the user instruction specifies the meeting date as November 9, 2023. This discrepancy is noted. The meeting began at 6:00 PM with the Committee-of-the-Whole (COW) session, followed by the regular City Council meeting. Key actions included a public hearing on the 2024 budget, approval of a retail recruitment contract, adoption of the 2024-2026 Strategic Plan, amendments to the rental housing licensing ordinance, and advancement of an amusement tax increase. Public Hearing on 2024 Budget - Director of Finance Carol Barnes presented the proposed 2024 budget, totaling $144.8 million and balanced. The budget funds 11 new full-time positions (net of cost savings), maintains a 5.5% vacancy rate, and includes $37 million in capital improvements. Revenue highlights include $582,000 from rental housing fees, $500,000 from a new 5% amusement tax (effective Jan 1, 2024), and $923,000 from a new 1.5% natural gas and electric franchise fee (effective Feb 1, 2024). Property taxes are proposed to increase by $527,464 (3.33%), with an estimated $586,000 of that growth dedicated to street improvements. The levy rate is projected to decrease from $1.8475 to $1.77725 per $100 of assessed value due to increased valuations. The average residential property (valued at $138,000) would see a combined monthly increase of $10.07 in property taxes, franchise fees, and utility fees. No public testimony was offered. COW Agenda Items - 6.1: Professional Services Agreement with Retail Strategies, LLC - A three-year contract for retail and restaurant development recruitment, costing $50,000 in year one and $45,000 in years two and three. City Administrator Bob Vitas noted a prior contract and success with attracting retailers like Popeyes and Olive Garden. Approved unanimously. - 6.2: Substantial Amendment 1 to 2023 Annual Action Plan (HUD) - Reallocates HUD funds for the Homestead Program (acquisition and rehabilitation of homes for low-to-moderate-income families). Council members expressed concern about potential duplication with other housing programs (e.g., MCDC), but staff clarified this is a continuation of existing efforts. Approved unanimously. - 6.3: 2024-2026 Strategic Plan - Presents goals based on three pillars: Infrastructure (54% of goals completed), Quality of Place (53% completed), and Economy (43% completed). Council praised completion of broadband fiber project (without taxpayer cost) and noted language access as an area of focus. Approved unanimously. - 6.4: Rental Housing Licensing Ordinance Amendment - Proposed changes to fee structure: $100 per building plus $15 per unit annually (instead of $100 for first unit and $15 for each additional). Total estimated additional revenue: $59,580. Alderperson Schmidt expressed concern about fee increases before program implementation, and Alderperson Timion criticized the lack of prior process from staff. An amendment to delay the late fee penalty until July 1, 2024, passed 8-0. The amended motion passed 7-1 (Schmidt opposed). The ordinance moved to first reading. - 6.5: Water Treatment Plant Boiler Replacement Contract - Contract with Ragan Mechanical, Inc. for $189,950. Approved unanimously. Informational Items - 7.1: Purchasing Code Amendment - Alderperson Timion introduced an ordinance to strengthen responsible bidder requirements and require Project Labor Agreements (ILA Impact Agreement) for projects above a certain size. No vote taken; to come back for first reading. - 7.2: Budget Work Session 3 - Two options for implementing franchise fees to fund the Special Capital Projects Fund. Option 1 (1.5% in 2024, 1.5% in 2025, 3% in 2026) was chosen over Option 2 (1%, 2%, 3% phased in). Council affirmed previous direction. Alderperson O'Brien highlighted savings from early funding of fire station projects. - 7.3: November Status & Information Report - City Administrator Bob Vitas reported completion of CS Park improvements, grant awards, and police vehicle acquisition. City Council Meeting - Consent Agenda - Approved minutes of Oct 21 and Oct 24 meetings. - Non-Consent: Second Reading Ordinances - Dissolution of TIF No. 8 (SouthPark Mall) and TIF No. 9 (Route 6/150) approved. - Non-Consent: Resolutions - Approved changes to Visit Quad Cities contribution, franchise fee collection from MidAmerican Energy, administrative services agreement with Renew Moline Inc., and flood hazard variance for a property at 225 50th Street. - Non-Consent: First Reading Ordinances - Advanced to second reading: Amusement tax increase from 5% to 10% (effective Jan 1, 2024), 2023 tax levy, Special Service Area levies for SSA 5 and 6, and the rental housing licensing ordinance (as amended). Key Outcomes - 2024 Budget adoption scheduled for November 21, 2023. - Retail Strategies contract approved. - Strategic Plan adopted. - Rental housing licensing ordinance amended (fee structure changed, late fee penalty delayed to July 1, 2024). - TIF districts 8 and 9 dissolved. - Ordinance to increase amusement tax advanced to second reading. - Franchise fee implementation: 1.5% in 2024, 1.5% in 2025, 3% in 2026 (Option 1).

Discussion Items - Personnel Additions: Council discussed new positions including a legal director, human resources manager, and rental housing inspector. While some members noted that the positions were not fully offset by cost savings, the majority supported the rationale for adding staff to improve services and bring work in-house. A motion to approve the personnel changes passed. - Asphalt Program: There was debate over a proposed $150,000 asphalt patching program in the general fund. Some council members preferred to keep it as a separate line item for future consideration rather than including it in the general fund vote. A motion to remove the asphalt program from the general fund was approved. - General Fund Approval: Council voted to approve the general fund budget with the exception of the asphalt program. The motion also included funding for one-time capital purchases such as vehicles, barricades, and cameras. Some members expressed concerns about the use of cameras and the need for clear policies, but ultimately supported the package. - Franchise Fee: Council debated a proposed increase in the franchise fee from 3% to 5% starting in 2025. After discussion, a motion passed to keep the fee at 3% through 2026, with a possible revisit in later years. - Capital Projects and Debt: Staff presented the capital improvement plan, highlighting a large upcoming project at the central fire station. Council discussed the need for a long-term solution, noting that renovation costs could reach $16-20 million. No final decision was made, but the discussion will continue. - Public Art Funding: Council considered a motion to allocate up to $75,000 from contingency funds to support public art projects in 2024. Some members preferred a one-year commitment rather than ongoing funding. An amendment to limit the support to 2024 passed, and the main motion then passed. - Special Events Fund: Council discussed the future of the 'Little Live' event. Some members felt it did not generate sufficient economic impact and suggested scaling it back or redirecting funds. No motion was made, but the discussion indicated a desire for more data before future commitments. - Youth Commission Funding: A motion to increase the Youth Commission's annual sponsorship limit from $1,000 to $10,000 was approved. - Tax Levy and Other Items: Council approved motions to establish the estimated property tax levies for the city and special service areas, as well as to adopt the updated 2023 budget projections including items from the day's motions. Key Outcomes - Personnel additions approved (motion by seconded by O'Brien, passed unanimously). - Asphalt program removed from general fund (motion by [unnamed], seconded by [unnamed], passed). - General fund approved (excluding asphalt program) (motion by, seconded by O'Brien, passed on roll call). - $35,000 contribution to Humility Homes winter shelter approved (motion by, seconded by, passed unanimously). - Franchise fee kept at 3% through 2026 (motion by, seconded by, passed on roll call). - Tennis court resurfacing funded at $170,000 in 2024 (motion by Tim, seconded by Schmidt, amended to lower cost, passed). - Public art funding up to $75,000 from contingency for 2024 approved (motion by, seconded by, amended to one-year, passed). - Youth Commission sponsorship cap increased to $10,000 (motion by Tim and Finch, passed). - Estimated property tax levy for 2024 established (motion by, seconded by, passed unanimously). - 2023 budget updated projections adopted (motion by, seconded by Bench, passed on roll call).

The Moline City Council held a combined Committee-of-the-Whole (COW) and regular Council meeting on October 26, 2023. The meeting covered multiple agenda items, including a $417,000 housing grant, a detailed review and amendment of the FY2024-2026 operating budget, and several routine consent items. Council members debated budget options, focusing on funding sources for capital projects, property tax impact, and a future franchise fee. Key votes were taken on budget amendments and approvals of various resolutions and ordinances. Committee-of-the-Whole (COW) Agenda - Resolution for Strong Communities Program Grant (Item 5.1/15.2): The City accepted a $417,000 grant from the Illinois Housing Development Authority for the Strong Communities Program Round 2. Staff noted the funds will be used for purchasing and rehabbing properties to address housing issues. The resolution was advanced to the Council agenda for final approval later in the meeting. Informational Items - 2022-2024 Action Plan Dashboard, FY23 Q3 Report (6.1): City Administrator Bob Vitas presented the quarterly progress report on strategic goals. Accomplishments were noted across infrastructure and other areas, with overall completion at about 65% due to staffing shortages. Council members commented on specific objectives, including the need for a crisis communications plan, small business incentives, downtown market discussions, and staff development/training. - Budget Review FY2024-2026 Operating Budgets (6.2): Finance Director Karen (last name not given) led the review. She outlined five motions from a previous Saturday work session that had been addressed, then presented three options for funding the $800,000 annual transfer to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and the 10-year capital plan. The options varied the mix of property tax increases, cannabis fund transfers, and a proposed 3% franchise fee effective 2027. Option 1 used $300,000 from cannabis and $500,000 in property taxes; Option 2 used $213,200 from cannabis and $586,800 in property taxes (capturing 50% of new growth); Option 3 kept the 3% franchise fee but pushed the central fire station project to 2031. Council discussion focused on balancing tax impact vs. funding for projects like the fire station and MKSK riverfront development. Consent Agenda (Council Portion) - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from October 10 and October 17, 2023, were approved. - Consent Resolutions 12.1-12.4: Declared a 2005 John Deere motor grader as surplus; approved a seventh amendment to the site license with AT&T for the 17th Avenue water tank; approved special event applications for Mercado Navideño (Nov. 10, 2023) and Lighting on the Commons (Nov. 18, 2023). All approved unanimously. Non-Consent Agenda – Second Reading Ordinances - Ordinance amending Chapter 34 (Water and Sewers): Added a new subsection (c)(3) to detention system criteria. Approved unanimously. Non-Consent Agenda – Resolutions - Property Tax Guarantee Agreement with Lakeshore Recycling Systems, LLC (15.1): Approved unanimously. - Strong Communities Program Grant (15.2): Same as COW item; approved unanimously. Council members expressed appreciation for staff's quick turnaround due to the filing deadline. Non-Consent Agenda – First Reading Ordinances - Dissolution of TIF No. 8 (SouthPark Mall) and TIF No. 9 (Route 6/150) (16.1 & 16.2): Both ordinances to dissolve the special tax allocation funds and terminate TIF designations were introduced. Advanced to second reading unanimously. - Parking Ordinance Amendments (16.3 & 16.4): Changes to parking prohibitions on 14th/15th Avenue and 40th Street. Advanced to second reading unanimously. On item 16.4, a council member noted extensive discussion and compromise had occurred. Key Outcomes - The FY2024-2026 budget was amended through a successful motion by Alderperson Schmidt (seconded by Alderperson Timmy). The motion set the 2024 property tax levy at $16,346,696 (a $586,800 increase, capturing 50% of new growth), reduced the cannabis fund transfer to $213,200 annually from 2024-2026, eliminated the $150,000 annual transfer to the special events fund from the cannabis fund, and removed the proposed 3% franchise fee discussion from this budget cycle. The motion passed on a roll call vote (all present voting 'aye'). - The budget amendment effectively adopted Option 2 with the changes discussed. - The ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) allocations for 2023-2026 were approved, including a correction to place $50,000 for CYFS partnership in 2024. - Public art funding of $75,000 was allocated from council contingency for 2024 only. - The cannabis fund transfer to special events was eliminated for 2024-2026. - Budget adoption (final vote) is scheduled for December after public hearings. - All consent and non-consent items were approved as noted, with no roll call votes recorded as unanimous.

This meeting of the Moline City Council (Committee of the Whole) took place on October 20, 2023. The council received an update on the city's strategic plan and heard the administration's recommendation for the 2024-2026 budgets. No public comments were offered. The discussions centered on refining strategic plan pillars and reviewing proposed revenue increases and capital projects. Discussion Items - Strategic Plan Update (Bob Vitas, City Administrator): Vitas reviewed accomplishments under the three strategic pillars (Infrastructure, Quality of Place, Economy) and noted that the community's top priorities have remained infrastructure, quality of place, and the economy. New initiative proposals included adding a sidewalk condition index (PCI) for roads, explicitly mentioning the pavement condition index in the infrastructure pillar, retaining the prairie parks item, and supporting community-wide efforts to increase social connectedness under holistic health awareness. Council members debated the feasibility of prairie parks due to maintenance constraints but agreed to keep it as a goal with partnership exploration. A diversity, equity, and inclusion program for employees was moved to the municipal services objective. The council reached consensus on these additions, with staff to bring the revised plan for adoption in early November. - Administration's Recommendation on 2024-2026 Budgets (Carol Barnes, Finance Director): Barnes presented a balanced budget with total expenditures less than 2% higher than the current amended budget. Key revenue proposals included capturing $740,000 in new property tax growth (about 63% of total growth) to fund a new Special Capital Projects Fund, a 1.5% natural gas and electric franchise fee (estimated $2.47/month on average residential bill), and a 5% amusement tax (projected $500,000 in 2024). The impact on an average $138,000 home would be approximately $2.67/month in property tax increase and $2.47/month franchise fee, totaling $5.14/month, plus already-adopted utility fee increases of $5.52/month (water, wastewater, stormwater, sanitation). The budget also implements the first phase of the Evergreen Compensation and Classification Study ($800,000+), adds 11 new positions, and reduces overtime by $750,000 due to fire department staffing. The general fund ending balance is projected to remain above the 25% policy target through 2026. - Council Concerns on Cumulative Cost Impact: Several council members expressed concern about the cumulative burden of the proposed new fees and taxes on low-income and fixed-income residents. Staff noted that CDBG and other assistance programs remain available to help with weatherization and energy efficiency. Key Outcomes - Strategic Plan Direction: Council directed staff to incorporate specific additions into the strategic plan pillars (sidewalk condition index, explicit road maintenance language, prairie parks, social connectedness, and DEI programming for employees). The revised plan will be presented for formal adoption at the November council meeting. - Budget Next Steps: The council will continue budget deliberations at a work session scheduled for October 24, 2023. Formal approval of the budget, including the new Special Capital Projects Fund and revenue ordinances, is expected in November and December. No votes were taken at this meeting. - No Public Comments or Consent Calendar Items: No members of the public spoke, and no consent calendar items were considered.

The Moline City Council and Committee-of-the-Whole met at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall, 619 16th Street, Moline, Illinois. The printed agenda packet carries the date Tuesday, October 10, 2023, while the meeting metadata provided for this summary identifies the date as October 11, 2023; this summary uses the metadata date. No remote electronic attendance was announced. The meeting opened with committee presentations, a proclamation, public comment, committee action items, and an informational report, followed by a formal council meeting. Presentations - Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA) funding: Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce CEO LaDrina Wilson, Chief Strategy Officer Brian Irby, and Senior Vice President Julie Forsyth presented. They described the Chamber's regional economic development work, five targeted industries, 79 new project opportunities in the past fiscal year, four successful projects, and outreach to existing Moline businesses. Wilson said the Rock Island Arsenal is the region's second-largest employer, with about 6,500 employees, approximately 6,000 civilians, and more than 400 Moline employees at the Arsenal. The Chamber requested increased municipal support for RIADA, stating Moline's current investment is $17,400 and the requested future increase is about $8,700. - Winter Emergency Shelter: Ashley Velez, Executive Director of Humility Homes and Services, and Leslie Kilganen, Director of the Quad Cities Housing Council, requested $20,000 from Moline for the winter emergency shelter. They said the shelter operates year-round with physical shelter in Davenport from December 1 through April 15, and that about 550 individuals and families in the Quad Cities are unsheltered or in shelter at any given time. They cited a loss of 6,645 affordable housing units over the last 10 years, high rent burdens (50–60% of Quad Citizens spending 70–90% of income on rent), and a reduction in the shelter population from 400 to 171 people. Of the 171, 93 are considered high barrier. Velez noted Moline previously funded the shelter at $3,500 and $5,000 in the last two years, and said if the shelter cannot open, the no-turn-away policy for people brought by Moline police would stop on December 1. Kilganen called for sustained support across the affordable housing continuum and faster rehabilitation of vacant or poorly maintained units. During discussion, Alderman Timian asked about single-room occupancy housing, and Velez said such units can rent for $200–$300/month and exist at Humility. Alderman O'Brien asked about national corporate buyers of single-family homes; Velez said they work more with small landlords than large property companies. The mayor noted the city's strategic plan update identifies infrastructure and housing as priorities and that Moline has passed a rental housing licensure program. Proclamation - Chief Steve Regenwether requested a proclamation for Fire Prevention Week, October 8–14, 2023. The agenda originally said “Fire Safety Week,” but the mayor noted a scrivener’s error and read the proclamation as “National Fire Prevention Week.” Public Comments & Testimony - A local food-truck owner and business operator gave public comment, saying she previously spoke in favor of a food truck project on 53rd Street. She reported a racist comment directed at her on a live stream, saying Jasmine Lee told her she would be “shucking and jiving,” and described an incident in which a city official asked about her Sandra Bland shirt, saying, “Is that the colored girl that got killed?” She said she no longer feels comfortable opening her food truck, that she has no ties to the community, that her income stops as a result, and that she feels she was used to help build someone else’s business before being mistreated. She expressed frustration that racism still occurs in 2023 and said the community needs education at home and in schools. Multiple council members and the mayor responded in support, condemning the incident and acknowledging that they had heard her. The mayor, Aldermen Timian, Finch, Castro, and others offered support and contact information, with the mayor saying the council is committed to bringing the community together. Committee-of-the-Whole Action Items - 7.1 Surplus John Deere Motor Grader: A resolution declaring a 2005 John Deere Motor Grader (serial DW672DX596790) surplus and authorizing disposal by sealed bid, auction, negotiation, or other legal process was approved. Alderman Schmidt thanked staff for right-sizing the fleet. - 7.2 AT&T Site License Amendment: A resolution authorizing the mayor and city clerk to execute the Seventh Amendment to the Site License Agreement with New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC for AT&T equipment at the 17th Avenue elevated water tank was approved. The amendment relates to installation of a backup generator. Alderman Timian asked about the revenue stream, and staff said the agreement adds $200 per month. - 7.3 TIF No. 8 SouthPark Mall Dissolution: An ordinance dissolving the SouthPark Mall Redevelopment Project Area special tax allocation fund was approved. City Administrator Bob Vitas said the city spent about two years working with the mall owners, but the property value fell below the TIF baseline and no tax increments were being generated. - 7.4 TIF No. 9 Route 6/150 Dissolution: An ordinance dissolving the Route 6/150 Redevelopment Project Area special tax allocation fund was approved. Vitas said the TIF never performed, floodplain changes made the property difficult to develop, and a small commercial parcel did not warrant a TIF. - 7.5 Mercado Navideño Special Event: A resolution approving the Mercado on Fifth Mercado Navideño event on Friday, November 10, 2023, with specified street closures, was approved. Staff said they will work with Mercado on parking, access, and security improvements for the 2024 season. - 7.6 Lighting on the Commons Special Event: A resolution approving the annual Lighting on the Commons event on Saturday, November 18, 2023, with a River Drive closure, was approved. Alderman Schmidt disclosed a relationship with the John Deere Pavilion in advertising and stated he had been advised it is not a conflict of interest. Informational Report - City Administrator Bob Vitas presented the October Status & Information Report. Highlights included the launch of the Quad Cities Land Bank Authority website, the Strong Communities Program grant, an asphalt overlay project on Avenue of the Cities between 34th and 41st Streets, and the hiring of a management analyst and grant coordinator. Alderman Messias asked about the Morgan Park Multi-Use Path environmental review; staff said review is completed but they are waiting on IDOT, and they will provide a timeline. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda by one motion with a roll call vote of 8–0: council meeting minutes of September 19, 2023 and Committee-of-the-Whole, Council, and Executive Session minutes of September 26, 2023; a special event resolution for Mercado on Fifth’s Día de los Muertos Parade After-Party on Saturday, October 28, 2023; a temporary sidewalk construction variance for 2500 53rd Street; a resolution authorizing a Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TASA) grant application for $757,285.46 for Phase II of the Morgan Park Multi-Use Path project; and a Motor Fuel Tax resolution authorizing $310,000.00 for I-74 shared cost construction with the Iowa and Illinois Departments of Transportation. Non-Consent Agenda - 16.1 Food Truck Zoning Amendments: An ordinance amending zoning definitions and tables to regulate food trucks/motorized food vendors was approved 8–0. - 16.2 Residential Refuse Collection Fee: An ordinance repealing and replacing Section 15-2200 was approved, but only after Alderman Schmidt offered an amendment to reinsert the curbside recycling cart fee language. The amendment established a $3.69 per month curbside recycling fee for single-family residences, a combined $10.79 refuse collection fee plus $3.69 recycling fee totaling $14.48 per month, added to utility bills, applied after stormwater fees and before water/sewer charges. The amendment was approved 8–0, and the amended ordinance was approved 8–0. Staff said the “quarterly” utility bill language will be updated later when the city moves to monthly billing. - 16.3 Water and Sewers “In General”: An ordinance repealing and replacing Section 34-4400 was approved 8–0. - 16.4 Sewerage Rate System: An ordinance repealing and replacing Section 34-3200 was approved 8–0. - 17.1 AFSCME Local 1132 Agreement: A resolution approving contract changes with AFSCME Local 1132 for the January 1, 2023–December 31, 2025 contract term was approved 8–0. Council members highlighted the inclusion of paid parental leave and thanked the negotiating parties. - 17.2 UMR Administrative Services Agreement: A resolution approving a three-year agreement with UMR, Inc., beginning January 1, 2024, for medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, flexible spending, and pharmacy benefit management administrative services was approved 8–0. - 18.1 Detention System Criteria First Reading: An ordinance amending Chapter 34, Section 34-4203 by adding subsection (c)(3) was advanced to second reading by an 8–0 vote. Key Outcomes - All recorded roll-call votes were 8–0 in favor. - The council approved the consent agenda, zoning and utility fee ordinances, AFSCME labor contract changes, UMR administrative services, and the first reading of detention-system criteria. - The Committee-of-the-Whole approved surplus disposal, the AT&T site license amendment, dissolution of TIF No. 8 and TIF No. 9, and special event applications for Mercado Navideño and Lighting on the Commons. - Council members directed staff to provide a timeline for the Morgan Park Multi-Use Path project and committed to working with the public commenter and community on racial equity concerns. - At the end of the meeting, the council voted unanimously to enter executive session for discussion of personnel (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1)) and property acquisition (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5)).