Public Meetings - Moline, Illinois

The Moline City Council met in Committee-of-the-Whole and then in regular City Council session on July 8, 2026. The Committee-of-the-Whole portion included police officer oaths, board appointments, commendations and life-saving awards, plus review of 14 agenda items. The City Council then took formal action; all City Council roll-call votes were 8-0. Agenda materials were dated July 7, 2026, but the date used for this summary is July 8, 2026. Committee-of-the-Whole: Oaths, Appointments, and Awards - Oaths of Office: Mayor administered oaths to Treyvon Lee and Alec Michna (effective July 2, 2026) and Gerald Ruddell III (effective June 30, 2026) as regular commissioned police officers after completion of probation. Chief Gault introduced each officer. - Board appointments: Mayor appointed Gilbert Peña to the Keep Moline Beautiful Commission for the unexpired term ending November 30, 2026, and Tom Lahl to the Revolving Loan Fund Committee for a five-year term ending June 30, 2031. - Commendation: Chief Gault presented a Letter of Commendation to Sergeant Tyler McLaughlin for off-duty actions that helped detain a stabbing suspect at ORA Orthopedics in Silvis on April 13, 2026. - Life Saving Awards: Officer Kyle Yeater received two Life Saving Awards for a February 18, 2026 carbon monoxide rescue where indoor CO levels exceeded 800 ppm, and for an April 3, 2026 cardiac arrest response where he performed CPR. Committee-of-the-Whole Agenda Items - Axon AI translation: Approved a $145,889.10 five-year contract with Axon Enterprise for AI Assistant software adding real-time translation to body-worn and in-car cameras. Chief Gault said the 60-day free trial tested 8 of 60-plus languages with World Relief and real field deployments, that funding came from Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity replacement grant/trust funds with no taxpayer cost, and that placing the item on the council agenda secured a 10 percent discount saving $16,209. Council discussion covered battery life, the internal large language model, no internet connection, court certification, and privacy. The motion passed. - Major Crash Assistance Team: Approved an intergovernmental agreement among local law enforcement agencies to regionalize crash reconstruction. Chief Gault noted Moline handles about 1,500 crashes per year, including about seven serious crashes, and that certified reconstruction requires 400 hours of training and equipment costing about $33,000 per year. The motion passed. - Sidewalk projects: Approved Langman Construction contracts for Project 1539, 2026 CDBG Sidewalk Improvement Project I for $199,896.25, and Project 1540, 2026 CDBG Sidewalk Improvement Project II for $178,450. Alderperson Timian clarified these were separate from the $530,000 CIP sidewalk budget, making combined sidewalk investment more than $800,000. Both motions passed. - Asphalt maintenance change order: Approved Change Order No. 1 and Final with Valley Construction for $15,907.53 for the 2026 MFT Asphalt Maintenance Program, adding two sites that had post-winter pavement failures near the new Starbucks off 19th Avenue. The motion passed. - Public Art grant: Authorized the Moline Public Art Commission to apply to the Illinois Arts Council for a Creative Project Grant of up to $12,000 for projects in the Public Art Place Making Plan. Staff said the city is seeking more funding for the commission and may explore pre-authorization for future grants. The motion passed. - Scout Capital Group: Approved an Economic Incentive Agreement for 3620 38th Avenue providing a $595,000 sales tax rebate to the buyer over a period not to exceed seven years, paid 80 percent to the buyer and 20 percent to the city, with staff estimating the rebate would be met in about three and a half to four years. The motion passed. - Catfish Charlie's and Marquis Harbor Marina: Approved a special ordinance with Pretasky Roach Properties to terminate the amended lease at 4801 River Drive, convey marina improvements as satisfaction of outstanding debt, and sell the restaurant lot for $350,000 payable upon subsequent sale, secured by a mortgage and promissory note. The motion passed. - River Drive right-of-way vacation: Approved an ordinance to vacate certain public rights-of-way along River Drive due to building encroachment by Catfish Charlie's. The encroachment area was identified as 524 square feet. The motion passed. - Special events and block parties: Approved a $2,500 grant from the Special Events Fund for the 13th Annual Fall Belgian Festival on September 20, 2026. Also approved block parties for the Old Morgan Park neighborhood on September 26 with Gary Francque, the Karstens/City Line Neighborhood Group on September 12 with Lori McKenzie, and the Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House Porch Party on September 20 with Susan Anderson. All motions passed. - Colona sewer study: Approved an intergovernmental agreement with Colona to jointly retain Strand Associates for a feasibility study of Colona joining the Rock River Valley Regional Sewer System, estimated at $75,500 and split equally. Staff and Strand's Troy Stinson said the study would also identify possible upgrades needed at Moline's Cole Creek Pump Station and interceptors. Alderperson Schmidt said he supports offering regional service but not any governance structure that would remove local control. The motion passed. Public Comments and Testimony - Louis Gita, a Moline resident of more than 25 years at 2911 25th Avenue, addressed the Council about a sewer backup that caused more than $30,000 in damages. He said he originally estimated about $10,000 in uninsured damages and received a $5,000 city stipend, but actual uninsured damages exceeded $20,000. He asked the Council to meet him halfway and provide $10,000 in settlement. Consent Calendar - The City Council approved the consent agenda by omnibus vote, 8-0, including the June 23, 2026 Committee-of-the-Whole, Council, and Executive Session minutes; appointments made at the Committee-of-the-Whole; second-reading ordinances 17.1 through 17.7; and resolutions 18.1 through 18.3. - Second-reading ordinances included reducing minimum required parking for residential land uses; annexing 4200 29th Street and 1523 36th Avenue; adding a school speed limit on University Drive from 1,800 feet west of Thirty-fourth Street to Thirty-fourth Street; amending parking prohibitions on Forty-second Street; correcting a parking time heading from 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.; and authorizing taxable general obligation bonds for the RiverStation Building at 1601 River Drive. - Consent resolutions included an Independent Contractor Agreement with Bush Construction Company for New Central Fire Station Construction Manager at Risk services for $909,328; property tax abatement intergovernmental agreements under the Moline River Edge Redevelopment Zone; and MKSK Work Authorization 05a for the Moline Riverfront demolition package in an amount not to exceed $100,000. City Council Non-Consent and First Reading Items - Item 20.1, the Axon AI Assistant resolution, was approved 8-0. - Item 20.2, the Langman CDBG Sidewalk Project I contract for $199,896.25, was approved 8-0. - Item 20.3, the Langman CDBG Sidewalk Project II contract for $178,450, was approved 8-0. - Item 20.4, the Scout Capital economic incentive agreement, was approved 8-0. - Item 21.1, the Catfish Charlie's and Marquis Harbor Marina special ordinance, was advanced to second reading 8-0. - Item 21.2, the River Drive right-of-way vacation ordinance, was advanced to second reading 8-0. Other Business - The Mayor thanked staff and partners for the July 4th 250 celebration and reported that Moline's fireworks were among the few local displays that launched successfully. - The Mayor reported continued progress on the Rock Island County homelessness response, with the next meeting on July 16, and a conversation scheduled in late July with Clutch about a broader regional response. - Alderperson Finch announced a library comprehensive plan meeting the following Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and encouraged public attendance. - The Council voted 8-0 to convene in Executive Session for personnel matters and pending litigation under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1) and 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(11). Key Outcomes - All Committee-of-the-Whole agenda items received favorable recommendations and were later approved or advanced by the City Council. - All formal City Council roll-call votes during the regular meeting were 8-0. - The City approved the Axon AI translation contract at $145,889.10, with the 10 percent discount saving $16,209. - The City awarded Langman Construction sidewalk contracts totaling $378,346.25 for the two CDBG projects. - The City approved the Scout Capital sales tax rebate agreement for up to $595,000 over seven years. - The Catfish Charlie's agreement and River Drive right-of-way vacation moved to second reading. - The Colona sewer feasibility study is expected to begin in August and be completed by December.

The Moline Committee-of-the-Whole met at City Hall beginning at 6:00 p.m. on June 24, 2026, for a roundtable discussion. Roll call was taken and no remote electronic attendance was requested. The agenda packet is dated June 16, 2026, while the supplied meeting timestamp is June 24, 2026; this summary follows the supplied timestamp. No minutes were available. The meeting included public comment, an introduction of a summer urban-planning fellow, reports on the Quad Cities Open Network and Project NOW's winter shelter, a financing discussion for 1601 River Drive, and several ordinance-update discussions. Public Comments & Testimony - The City Clerk read an emailed public comment from Tom Key. Key stated that aerial drone cameras can read a vehicle license plate from up to 2,000 feet away and suggested facial recognition could follow; he said he is not comfortable relying on drones for ordinance enforcement and noted that Moline shares technology with regional police, sheriff, and state police drone programs. - A 52-year Moline resident said a neighbor poured concrete in the front-yard area and that a city official told him a variance was needed because of zoning issues. He cited subdivision covenants limiting buildings and structures between the building line and the street and asked for clarity and equitable enforcement. Council members said the matter would be referred to city staff and legal counsel. Discussion Items 7.1 Quad Cities Open Network Information Session - Cecelia Bailey, Executive Director, described the Quad Cities Open Network as a collaborative of collaboratives and a backbone/meso-level organization that does not provide direct services. QCON offers a free information and referral system, manages a flexible emergency-assistance fund, and uses data to identify gaps and inform resource allocation. - Bailey said QCON partners include hospitals and health systems, school districts, libraries, and other agencies; system champions include All Our Kids for early childhood and UnityPoint Health for health systems, and the network is looking for a housing-system champion through the regional housing plan. - In response to council questions, Bailey said the previous Davenport library social worker served 8,000 people in three years before funding lapsed; a new Davenport social worker recently started, and the East Moline library social worker program is working well. She cited sustainability concerns and staff turnover as reasons some nonprofits have not joined the network. - The mayor clarified that QCON was not making a funding request at this meeting and referenced a new Community Foundation report that recommends using QCON more in the next phase of regional housing work. 7.2 Project NOW Shelter Overview - Leah Oostendorp, Executive Administrative Coordinator at Project NOW, presented a final report on the winter overflow shelter, referred to as the LIF NOW Center. She reviewed the shelter's regional history and outcomes for the winter season. - The shelter opened January 21, 2026, at the Bridge Point 485 building with assistance from the City of Moline. Because of space limits, only single men and women were accommodated on site; families were connected to Salvation Army services. - 4,182 shelter nights were provided over just under four months. - Average stay was 14 nights. - 219 males and 82 females were served. - Guests ranged in age from 2 months to 81 years; the largest age group was 34 to 55. - More than one-third of guests had experienced domestic violence, trafficking, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault. - 87 guests obtained permanent housing, compared with 13 the prior year. - Oostendorp reviewed prior regional history: the previous overflow shelter served roughly 60-80 individuals per night and 400 unduplicated individuals over a two-year period; after it closed, Davenport expanded winter capacity; Project NOW's first converted shelter permanently housed 13 people. - The shelter provided monthly bus passes, a 7 a.m. Metrolink pickup to the bus depot, on-site mental health care through UnityPoint/Robert Young, help obtaining vital records, and connections to benefit programs. Christian Care provided free meals and showers. - Oostendorp said the need for shelter has not gone away and that finding a facility remains the greatest challenge for winter 2026-27. Needed features include shower and bathroom facilities, adequate plumbing capacity, outdoor space, and compliance with local ordinances. - In discussion, the mayor said county-level conversations about shelter funding and services are alive; one council member cited Scott County research showing the top 17 utilizers cost the county $17 million over five years; another council member said a regional solution makes the most sense but asked staff to keep the council apprised if it does not materialize. 7.3 Financing Discussion for 1601 River Drive - Finance Director Carol Barnes and financial advisor Anthony Masselli outlined permanent financing for the purchase and improvement of the property at 1601 River Drive. The estimated amount needed is not to exceed $1,750,000. - The city plans to cash-flow the purchase from special CIP reserves, which currently have just under $3 million, and reimburse the reserves with bond proceeds. Closing is targeted on or before July 29. - The draft structure is $1,720,000 in taxable general obligation bonds with a 15-year term. Level annual debt service is roughly $150,000; current tenant lease payments are about $250,000 per year; projected operating expenses could be up to $100,000 per year. If tenants and leases are retained, the city would have no projected out-of-pocket cost over the life of the bonds. - The presentation initially referenced a three-year call provision; Finance Director Barnes clarified that the draft is structured with a two-year call, with optional redemption in December 2028. If the property is sold before the call date, bond proceeds would be held in escrow and invested until the bonds are called. - The projected true interest cost is about 5 percent. The bond ordinance will be a parameter ordinance with an interest-rate cap of 6 percent; if bids exceed that rate, the city would need to return to council. The related tax levy would be abated, consistent with the city's prior practice. - The term sheet to be distributed to local and regional banks includes repayment terms, security, a property description, tax status, and the city's latest audit. Bank bids are expected July 14, and rates would be locked with those firm bids. 7.4 Ordinance Update Discussion - Class C package sales/100-foot rule: The council discussed amending the 2021 requirement that Class C package stores be at least 100 feet apart. The mayor described a downtown gas station that lost its food and liquor licenses and is hard to sell under the current rule. Several council members supported a gas-station exception, while one cautioned that an undefined case-by-case variance could invite a class-of-one equal protection claim. A council member asked that the exception be drafted so it only allows a gas station to locate near another business, not a liquor store to locate next to a gas station. Staff was directed to bring back an ordinance update. - Native vegetation/pollinator yards: Council discussed a voluntary registration program that would allow residents to use native vegetation in yards, with setbacks, plant-height limits, and GIS tracking. The program would preserve code enforcement for unregistered, unruly yards. Existing programs in Davenport and Columbia, Missouri, were cited as examples. Council directed staff to continue developing the program. - Commercial uses in residential neighborhoods: A council member proposed allowing neighborhood corner stores and accessory commercial units, describing the current code as exclusionary and noting that many former store buildings in Moline have been converted to residential. The discussion noted that the comprehensive plan update is the appropriate place to consider zoning changes. One member asked for an economic lens, and staff said the economic development office regularly receives inquiries about opening businesses in neighborhoods. - Residential produce sales/urban agriculture: Staff said gardening and cultivation are already allowed but limited to 20 percent of a lot and not in required front yards. A memo on allowing residents to sell produce grown on residential property was expected by the end of the week. Lincoln, Nebraska's conditional-use approach and the need for soil testing were discussed. - Municipal grocery stores/food deserts: A council member raised the idea of municipal grocery stores or a co-op grocery model to address food deserts, citing examples in Chicago, New York, Atlanta, and Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He argued the city should act when the private market fails to meet a basic need. Council members discussed co-op ownership, possible partnerships with local growers, and the need for an economic analysis. One member mentioned an organization called No Labels that has opposed municipal grocery stores and asked for additional review. The topic was added to the council's list for further research. Other Business and Announcements - Staff announced that the volunteer appreciation event will be held at the library garden on September 19. The finance office was reported to be nearly ready. No executive session was held, and the meeting adjourned after a motion and second. Key Outcomes - No formal substantive votes were recorded; the meeting was a roundtable/committee discussion. - Staff will draft a gas-station exception to the Class C 100-foot distance rule and bring an ordinance update back to council. - Staff will continue developing a voluntary native-vegetation/pollinator program. - Staff will provide a memo by the end of the week on allowing residential produce sales. - The financing schedule presented was: first reading of the bond ordinance June 23; bank solicitations June 24; bank bids and award July 14; closing on or before July 29, if within bond parameters. - The resident's code-enforcement/variance complaint was referred to city staff and legal counsel. - The meeting adjourned after a motion to adjourn was made and seconded.

Note on date discrepancy: The agenda lists the meeting as Tuesday, June 23, 2026, while the user instruction specifies the meeting took place on June 24, 2026. This summary uses the date provided in the instruction. The meeting began with Committee-of-the-Whole (COTW) proceedings, followed by a regular City Council meeting. Key actions included approval of a $909,328 fire station construction manager contract, authorization of property tax abatement intergovernmental agreements, advancement of a $100,000 riverfront demolition package, and first reading of ordinances to reduce residential parking requirements, annex two parcels, adjust speed limits and parking regulations, and issue bonds for the RiverStation acquisition. The council also approved board appointments, received awards for financial reporting, and proclaimed July 2026 as Park and Recreation Month. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of June 9 and June 16, 2026 meetings. - Approved appointments made at COTW (see Board Appointments below). - Approved resolutions 17.1–17.5 and 17.7–17.10 as a single omnibus vote (7-0): - 17.1: Contract with Phoenix Corporation for 15th Street Resurfacing ($335,289.73). - 17.2: Highway-Rail Signal Interface Agreement with Iowa Interstate Railroad for 12th Street crossing. - 17.3: Contract with Langman Construction for 2026 Asphalt Project ($658,718.44). - 17.4: Maintenance resolution for MFT Section 26-00000-01-GM, 16th Avenue Resurfacing ($650,000). - 17.5: Acceptance of three deeds of dedication and temporary construction easements for 25th Avenue Shared-Use Path. - 17.7: School Resource Officer Agreement with Moline-Coal Valley School District for four police liaison officers (2026-2027). - 17.8: Grant of $1,500 to World Relief Quad Cities for 2026 World Refugee Day celebration. - 17.9: Block party approval for Karstens/City Line Neighborhood Association (September 20, 2026). - 17.10: Asset Purchase Agreement for 1601 River Drive (RiverStation) for $1,650,000. Public Comments & Testimony - Simon Zerman Valley (resident of Moline, representing himself and users of Riverside courts): Expressed concern about the decision to turn off park lights at 9:00 PM instead of 11:00 PM, citing a disciplinary measure after prom misconduct. He argued the change disproportionately affects the broader community, including himself as a night-shift worker who can no longer play basketball after work. He requested the lights be returned to 11:00 PM. The Mayor noted the park board made the decision and encouraged him to address the park board directly. - Bonnie Johnson (Moline Township Supervisor): Brought attention to persistent parking issues faced by seniors in and around Moline Township, asking for the city’s help in resolving the problem. Board Appointments - Reappointments: Elizabeth Finch to the Moline Commission on Youth (3-year term ending March 31, 2029); Regina Nelson and Bob Poor to the Library Board of Trustees (3-year terms ending May 31, 2029). - Appointments: Michelle King to the Library Board of Trustees (unexpired term of Diane Enani, ending May 31, 2027); Kelin Taylor to the Historic Preservation Commission (3-year term ending April 30, 2029); Gilbert Peña to the Keep Moline Beautiful Commission (3-year term ending November 30, 2029); Amanda Kerschieter to the Park and Recreation Board (5-year term ending May 31, 2031); Richie Masias to the Public Art Commission (2-year term ending September 30, 2027); Matt Hernandez to the Citizens Advisory Council on Urban Policy (unexpired term of Jersey Rivers, ending July 31, 2028); Alan Silas to the Bi-State Regional Commission as City Council representative (concurrent with aldermanic term, expiring May 1, 2027). - The Mayor also requested a council liaison to the Keep Moline Beautiful Commission. Presentations - GFOA’s Popular Annual Financial Report Award for 2024: Carol A. Barnes, Director of Finance, announced the city is a first-time recipient. The award recognizes transparency in financial reporting. Team members Ashley Allen, Macy McManus, and Adam Moore were recognized, along with intern Rowan Smith, who is helping compile the 2025 report. - GFOA’s Triple Crown Award for 2024: Barnes announced that the city is one of only 441 governments nationwide (out of over 91,000) to receive this award. To qualify, the city had to already hold the Certificate of Achievement (33 years), the Distinguished Budget Award (4 years), and the new Popular Annual Financial Report. The finance department staff were recognized for handling over $165 million annually. Proclamation - Park and Recreation Month: The Mayor proclaimed July 2026 as Park and Recreation Month, recognizing the contributions of parks and recreation to health, wellness, economic prosperity, and environmental well-being. Eric Griffith, Director of Parks and Recreation, thanked the council and community for support. Discussion Items - 9.1 – New Central Fire Station Construction Manager at Risk: A resolution authorizing an independent contractor agreement with Bush Construction Company, Inc. for $909,328. Alderman Schmidt explained that seven submissions were received; Bush was deemed most qualified. The contract includes pre-construction services (design reviews, cost estimates) and a guaranteed maximum price at 90% design completion, with Bush responsible for overruns. The motion to approve passed 7-0. - 9.2 – Property Tax Abatement Intergovernmental Agreements: A resolution authorizing the mayor to execute IGAs with participating taxing bodies for the Moline River Edge Redevelopment Zone. The zone offers a 90% rebate on the increment for qualified projects. Staff reported that three bodies (school district, Metrolink, Forest Preserve) have already approved; others are pending. The motion passed 7-0, with Alderman Silas recusing himself due to his role with Metrolink. - 9.3 – Riverfront Demolition Package (Work Authorization 05a): A resolution approving $100,000 for MKSK to create a demolition package for the Riverfront District. The work is expected to take 60 days and will lead to a bid for demolition. Staff noted that the public realm design (boardwalk, amphitheater, park) will be led by MKSK and Lake Flato, while selective demolition and adaptive reuse of existing buildings will be managed by Streamline. The motion passed 7-0. - 17.6 – Solar Facility Site Lease Agreement (pulled from consent): A resolution for a 25-year lease with Community Power Group LLC to develop a solar photovoltaic facility on city-owned property. An update revealed that Mid-American’s system impact study reduced the maximum project size from 5 megawatts to 3 megawatts. City Attorney Atkins confirmed the lease agreement does not need amendment due to this change, as site plan details are subject to adjustment. The rent remains unchanged. The council voted 7-0 to approve. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (7-0) unless noted. Alderman Silas recused from voting on item 9.2. - Consent agenda approved en bloc, with item 17.6 removed and voted on separately. - First reading ordinances advanced to second reading (all 7-0): - 19.1: Reduce minimum parking spaces for residential uses. - 19.2: Annex 4200 29th Street. - 19.3: Annex 1523 36th Avenue. - 19.4: Add school speed limit on University Drive (1800 feet west of 34th Street to 34th Street). - 19.5: Remove and add parking prohibitions on 42nd Street. - 19.6: Correct parking prohibited times from 12:00 p.m.–6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.–6:00 a.m. - 19.7: Authorize taxable general obligation bonds for RiverStation acquisition ($1,650,000). - Executive session approved (7-0) for collective bargaining and pending litigation. - Next steps: The RiverStation bonds will go to second reading; demolition package for riverfront to be completed in 60 days; solar project will proceed at 3 MW with potential future expansion; continued discussions with taxing bodies on property tax abatement IGAs; and the mayor’s listening post scheduled for June 24 at Prospect Park Pavilion.

The Moline Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council met at City Hall Council Chambers, 619 16th Street, Moline, Illinois, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The printed agenda and transcript are dated Tuesday, June 9, 2026; this summary uses the supplied meeting date of June 10, 2026. The combined session included a public hearing on two voluntary annexations, a proclamation, two presentations, the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, 17 committee-of-the-whole agenda items, consent agenda approvals, and non-consent council resolutions. Consent Calendar - The City Council approved the May 19, 2026 committee-of-the-whole and council minutes plus consent items 17.1 through 18.2 by one omnibus motion, 7-0. The consent package included temporary parking restriction amendments (17.1, 17.2), altered 20 mph and 40 mph speed limit zones (17.3, 17.4), a licensing agreement with 1522 River Dr. LLC dba Sins Tavern for outdoor service at the Historic Block Courtyard from June 13 to October 3, 2026 (18.1), and authorization to apply to the Illinois Housing Development Authority for a Strong Communities Program Round 3 Grant of $748,000 for affordable housing and community revitalization (18.2). Public Comments and Public Hearing - George Keresi of World Relief Quad Cities spoke in support of the agency's $1,500 special-events grant request, describing the refugee resettlement agency's work. He said it resettled close to 200 families last year and close to 1,500 families over five years, citing home purchases by five families and other economic indicators. - At the public hearing for the proposed annexations of 4200 29th Street and 1523 36th Avenue, staff stated both parcels are single-family homes already connected to city utilities. There was no resident testimony, no written comment reported, and no testimony in favor or opposition; the hearing was closed at 6:05 p.m. Proclamation and Presentations - The Council issued a proclamation declaring June 22-28, 2026 as National Pollinator Week in Moline, recognizing more than 3,600 species of native bees in the United States and the importance of pollinators. Parks and Recreation Director Eric Griffith noted this is Moline's first National Pollinator Week as a Bee City USA affiliate and highlighted new pollinator gardens at Ben Butterworth Parkway, the John Deere property, and projects at Sylvan Island, Green Valley, Prospect, and Peterson. - Anamaria Rocha was presented a certificate for developing/redesigning the City's official logo. She thanked the Council and clarified it was a redesign. - Baker Tilly principal Michael E. Malatt presented the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year January 1-December 31, 2025. The City received an unmodified audit opinion, the highest level of assurance; the general fund was roughly break-even before transfers; capital funds were spent down; other funds increased; the combined police and fire pension funds increased by about $20.5 million and are funded in the high-70s percentile, nearly 80%; IMRF remains overfunded; TIF compliance and federal single audit reports were clean; and the results and insights letter had no significant findings. Discussion Items - Committee-of-the-Whole - Parking minimums (9.1): The Council approved lowering minimum residential parking requirements to one space per unit for multifamily and single-family uses, but not for institutional residential uses such as group homes or nursing homes. The Plan Commission held a public hearing on May 13 and recommended approval. An amendment to reduce the requirement to zero failed for lack of a second. Alderpersons cited concerns about on-street congestion, rental housing, and housing density. - Annexations (9.2, 9.3): The Council approved voluntary annexation of 4200 29th Street (Parcel 17-09-410-017) and 1523 36th Avenue (Parcel 17-08-406-007), both single-family homes already receiving city utilities, with default R-2 zoning. - Tobacco license reclassifications (9.4, 9.5): Proposed ordinances to increase the Class A Principal Tobacco Dealer's license cap for Galaxy Glass Smoke Shop and Avenue of the Cities Tobacco & Vape, both reclassifying from Class C to Class A, failed. Staff said the owners self-reported misclassification and supplied floor-space and sales data. Council debate raised concerns about Kratom products, self-reported classifications, potential loopholes, and the need for stronger renewal verification. Staff said future applications would require more detailed sales and floor-space breakdowns. Item 9.4 failed on a 2-6 vote; item 9.5 also failed. - Public works and infrastructure (9.6-9.11): The Council approved a $335,289.73 contract with Phoenix Corporation of the Quad Cities for 15th Street resurfacing (19th to 23rd Avenues); a highway-rail signal interface agreement with Iowa Interstate Railroad for the 12th Street crossing; a $658,718.44 contract with Langman Construction for the 2026 Motor Fuel Tax asphalt project on 16th Avenue; a $650,000 maintenance resolution for that same MFT project; a $822,766.21 contract with Langman Construction for 11th Avenue C reconstruction, including new concrete pavement and underground utilities; and acceptance of three right-of-way deeds of dedication and three temporary construction easements for the 25th Avenue Shared-Use Path / Morgan Park Path Project, with three more deeds still pending. - Solar lease (9.12): The Council approved a Solar Facility Site Lease Agreement with Community Power Group LLC for a city-owned site, for a 25-year base term with extensions. The City, as anchor tenant, may subscribe to up to 40% of the facility's output. Projected savings were described as up to 10% on the first 5,000 kWh of MidAmerican charges, with potential six-figure annual savings to the City, which spends over $1 million per year on power. Staff said prior options were blocked by a roughly $18 million substation cost and a five-to-seven-year equipment wait; the current project is expected to begin operating in two to four years. - Bealer lease modification (9.13): The Council approved modifying the long-term Donald R. Bealer Family Limited Partnership lease to remove about 40 acres that is being sold, while retaining the Police Department shooting range on the remaining leased property. Staff said the change will slightly reduce the City's cost for the remaining roughly 14 years. - School Resource Officer agreement (9.14): The Council approved the 2026-2027 School Resource Officer Agreement with Moline-Coal Valley School District No. 40 for four police liaison officers. The Police Chief said the updated document implements a new state law, clarifies that SROs are not school disciplinarians, preserves law enforcement authority, and was already approved by the School Board. - World Relief grant (9.15): The Council approved a $1,500 grant to World Relief Quad Cities from the Special Events Fund for the World Refugee Day Quad Cities Celebration on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Ben Butterworth Park. One alderperson recused because they serve on the World Relief advisory board; the vote was 7-0. - Block party (9.16): The Council approved a September 20, 2026 block party for the Karstens/City Line Neighborhood Association, including street closures and a licensing agreement with Michele Shipp. - 1601 River Drive asset purchase (9.17): The Council approved an Asset Purchase Agreement with Kaizen Company of America LC and Riverstation on Bass Street LLC to buy the roughly 42,000-square-foot building at 1601 River Drive for $1,650,000. Staff said the building sits on about 0.8 acres under a ground lease, was completed in 2006, is currently 30% occupied, and will continue to operate as commercial space. The agreement includes dismissal of litigation and a mutual release of claims; financing options are to be reviewed at the June round table, and the transaction is expected to be self-funding without new tax obligations. Regular Council Session - Non-Consent Resolutions - Pride 5K and Pride Party (20.1): Approved 6-0 with one recusal, including a $5,000 Special Events Fund grant to The Project of the Quad Cities, Inc., for the June 27, 2026 event and associated street closures. - Bealer lease modification (20.2): Approved. - Library Board meeting calendar (20.3): Approved 8-0, moving Library Board of Trustees meetings to 3:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month effective July 2026. - 11th Avenue C reconstruction contract (20.4): Approved 8-0. - Acceptance of the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (20.5): Approved 8-0. Other Business - The Mayor announced the upcoming Parkview groundbreaking by the Moline Housing Authority and an upcoming Council round table on legislative and regulatory topics, including vape-shop licenses. - Alderperson Schmidt announced the retirement of the Library Director after more than 35 years with the City and noted the Finance Department's return to City Hall, including a new drop box for payments and a 4:30 p.m. customer-service desk closing time. Key Outcomes - Approved: residential parking minimum reduction, two annexations, all public works and infrastructure resolutions, the Community Power Group solar lease, the Bealer lease modification, the School Resource Officer agreement, the World Relief grant, the block party, the 1601 River Drive asset purchase, and all consent and non-consent council resolutions. - Failed: the two Class A tobacco license cap increases (9.4 and 9.5). - Next steps identified: staff will bring financing options for the River Drive acquisition to the June round table; three more right-of-way deeds are pending for the Morgan Park path; solar interconnection and Illinois Shine applications are expected to proceed; and the City will continue discussions about Kratom and tobacco license enforcement.

The Moline City Council held a joint Committee-of-the-Whole and regular City Council meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation, public comment, approval of several resolutions and ordinances, and a detailed presentation of preliminary financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025. Proclamation - Building Our Communities Week (May 29 – June 5, 2026): Katie Schrader, Community Relations Manager for John Deere, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Quad Cities Chamber. The proclamation highlighted the partnership between John Deere and Habitat for Humanity, noting that from 2021 to 2026, John Deere and its employees contributed over $6.46 million and more than 28,000 volunteer hours to Iowa Habitat affiliates, including the Quad Cities Illinois area. The week will include a coordinated Blitz Week with donation drives and volunteer activities. Public Comments & Testimony - David Stoner spoke against the city’s use of Flock cameras. He cited updated terms of service that he argued strip away protections and allow the company to sell data, and reported that the FBI is seeking access to a national network of automatic license plate readers. He presented a petition with 702 signatures opposing the camera system and urged the council to end the contract. The council did not respond during the meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the May 12, 2026 meetings (Committee-of-the-Whole, Council, Executive Session). - Approved second reading ordinances: - Amendment to Chapter 31 (Taxation) regarding tax and report transmittal. - Amendment to Chapter 35 (Zoning) removing public art requirements for private development to lower financial burden. - Amendment to Chapter 35 (Zoning) modifying bonding requirements for infrastructure and public improvements. - Approved resolutions: - Contract with Valley Construction Co. for the 38th Avenue Sanitary Sewer & Lift Station project ($785,330). - Block party for Glen Oaks Neighborhood on August 29, 2026, with street closures. - Grant of $300 to Renew Moline for seasonal summer decorations for the Chillin’ in the Courtyard Concert Series. Discussion Items Committee-of-the-Whole Items - Pride 5K and Pride Party (Item 7.1): A resolution approving the special event application for June 27, 2026, sponsored by The Project of the Quad Cities, Inc. The city will provide a $5,000 grant from the Special Events Fund, close 17th Street completely, and partially close River Drive and 19th Street. Alderperson Castro stated she would recuse herself due to employment with The Project, but the roll call shows she voted "Aye" (the transcript notes this discrepancy). The motion passed unanimously with 8 ayes. - Sins Tavern Licensing Agreement (Item 7.2): Approved a licensing agreement with 1522 River Dr. LLC (dba Sins Tavern) for outdoor service of alcohol and food at 1520 River Drive (Historic Block Courtyard) from June 13 to October 3, 2026. Motion passed unanimously. - CDBG 2026 Annual Action Plan (Item 7.3): Approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to submit the plan to HUD by June 1, 2026. Funding is down approximately $20,000 from last year, with a total of 1,491 entitlements. The plan serves as the second-year action plan under the 2025–2029 Consolidated Plan. Motion passed unanimously. - Strong Communities Program (SCP) Round 3 Grant (Item 7.4): Approved a resolution authorizing the Community & Economic Development Department to apply for a $748,000 grant from the Illinois Housing Development Authority. Funds will be used to demolish 10 residential units, acquire two properties, and rehab two properties. The application is due June 16, 2026. Motion passed unanimously. Informational Report – Preliminary Financial Statements (Year Ended 12/31/2025) - Carol Barnes, Director of Finance, presented the preliminary audit results. Key highlights: - Clean audit with no internal control findings or material weaknesses. - General fund ended with a 24.8% fund balance (approximately 89.3 days of expenditures), slightly below the budgeted 24.92% (90 days). Total ending fund balance: $12,596,000 net of $8.9 million in cash advances to TIF funds. - General fund revenues fell short by 3.13% (mainly intergovernmental revenues, hotel/motel tax, and interest income), but expenditures came in under budget by 1.42%. - The 1% grocery tax resolution was noted as providing approximately $100,000 per month (first two months: January and February). - Library fund: $935,000 in reserves (29.4% of expenditures), projected to drop to 22.2% by 2028 if property tax levy increases are not maintained. - Parks fund: $2,075,000 in reserves (29.1%), with about $600,000 already committed to projects (playgrounds, mini pitch, backhoe). Projected to drop to 22.6% under current levy assumptions. - Cannabis Humanitarian Assistance Fund: $213,000 balance, accumulating approximately $60,000 per month in interest. Alderperson Schmidt noted this could be a source for a permanent shelter solution. - Enterprise funds (water, WPC, stormwater, sanitation) all above the 25–30% cash reserve minimum. - Internal service funds (health, IT, liability, etc.) all at or above the 25% minimum. - Total capital projects in 2025: $30.2 million (excluding ARPA funds). - Discussion included concerns about future tax levy increases for parks and library, potential impacts of rising utility rates on franchise fees, and the need to monitor state revenue projections. Non-Consent Agenda Items (Council) - Second Reading Ordinance – Tobacco Dealer License (Item 19.1): Approved an ordinance increasing the number of Class B Incidental Tobacco Dealer’s Licenses for Rosy’s Watering Hole Inc. Passed 6-2 (Alderpersons Timian and Silas voted nay). - Non-Consent Resolution – CDBG (Item 20.1): Approved the same CDBG resolution as under Committee-of-the-Whole (item 7.3). Passed unanimously. - First Reading Ordinances (Items 21.1–21.4): All four ordinances were advanced to second reading unanimously: - 21.1: Three-hour parking restrictions on 18th Street near Sixth Avenue. - 21.2: Speed limit reduction to 20 mph on several streets (15th Street C, 31st Avenue, 16th Street, 33rd Avenue). - 21.3: Thirty-minute parking restrictions at 621 and 620 18th Street. - 21.4: Removal and addition of multiple streets to/from 20 mph and 40 mph speed limit zones. Key Outcomes - Approved: Pride 5K event grant and street closures, Sins Tavern outdoor service license, CDBG 2026 Annual Action Plan submission, SCP Round 3 grant application, tobacco dealer license increase, and four first-reading traffic ordinances (advanced to second reading). - Consent Agenda: Approved as a block, including minutes, three ordinances, and three resolutions. - Next Steps: The CDBG plan will be submitted to HUD by June 1, 2026. The Strong Communities grant application is due June 16, 2026. The preliminary financial statements will be formally presented by auditors on June 9, 2026. A roundtable discussion on June 16, 2026, will cover potential code updates and a presentation on QCon’s program. The CIP roundtable is scheduled for July. - Miscellaneous: The mayor announced that a Harvard master’s in urban planning fellow has been selected for the East End project. The permanent shelter discussions continue with a meeting on May 21, 2026.

This meeting combined a Committee-of-the-Whole session and a regular City Council meeting. It included presentations, proclamations, approvals of contracts and agreements, informational updates, and first readings of ordinances. Note: The agenda listed the meeting date as May 12, 2026, but the provided date for summary purposes is May 13, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Keith expressed concerns about proposed aerial surveillance and Flock cameras, urging the council to reconsider. He referenced other cities that have banned such systems. Police Chief Darren Gaul corrected the record, stating that Moline does not have Flock drones nor plans to acquire them. Presentations & Awards - Snow Angels Program (Denver Schmitt, Public Works): Second year of the program, with 15 volunteers (up 5 from last year) assisting 32 residents (up from 20). Volunteers were recognized with plaques. - ISAWWA Water Ambassador Program – Gold Level: Moline received its third gold award for elevating public perception of water. Presented by Lindsay Selfridge. - ISAWWA WaterCon Staff Awards: Bobby Cantu won the water meter assembly skills competition for the third time and will represent Moline and Illinois at the national conference. A team (Robin Markle, Thomas House, Justin Pratt) won the TopCon timed event. Proclamations - National Public Works Week (May 17–23, 2026): Proclaimed by Mayor Rayapati, recognizing public works professionals. - Affordable Housing Month (May 2026): Proclaimed after remarks by Leslie Kilgannon, Executive Director of the Quad Cities Housing Council. She highlighted that 87% of extremely low-income renter households in Illinois are cost-burdened (spending 30% of income on housing), and 74% are severely cost-burdened (50%). She noted that a minimum wage worker would need 79-hour weeks to afford a two-bedroom rental. She thanked Moline for its leadership on the winter emergency shelter. Committee-of-the-Whole Items (all approved) - 8.1: Resolution authorizing a $785,330 contract with Valley Construction Co. for Project 1538 (38th Avenue Sanitary Sewer & Lift Station). Acknowledged over budget but funding available. - 8.2: Resolution approving a block party for the Glen Oaks Neighborhood on August 29, 2026, with street closures. - 8.3: Resolution granting $300 to Renew Moline from the Special Events Fund for summer decorations for the Chillin’ in the Courtyard Concert Series. Informational Items - South Slope WWTP Improvements (Laura Williamson and Troy Stinson, Strand Associates): Provided an update on the $113.862 million phase-one project. Construction started August 7, 2025; approximately 15% complete (10% by pay applications). Change orders are at 0.4% of contract. The deep influent pumping station (structure 10) required soil nail walls due to unexpected conditions. The aeration tank base slab was poured continuously using 100 concrete trucks. The project remains on schedule for completion by August 31, 2029. Staff complimented for coordination. - FY2026 Quarter One Report (Bob Vitas, City Administrator): Reported that all strategic goals are on track. Highlights include: winter emergency shelter opened, comprehensive plan underway, records disposal program (clearing basement backlog), lead service line program launched, library outreach van in demand, fire station at 40% drawings, and demolition of buildings on 7th Street progressing. Quarterly reports will replace monthly updates to reduce staff burden. Consent Agenda (Council) - The consent agenda was approved by an 8–0 vote, with the exception of item 18.3 (removed per request of Alderperson Schmidt). Items approved included: - Minutes of April 28, 2026 - Second reading ordinances: PUD and rezoning (2701-2715 Avenue of the Cities), and adding an all-way stop at 54th Street & 11th Avenue C. - Resolutions: final plat for Plaza on the Avenue; surplus property sales (200 20th Street to 321 Partners, LLC; 2800 48th Avenue to IDOT for $12,000; 3620 38th Avenue to IDOT for $9,600); website/branding contract with Planeteria Media (removed); licensing agreements for River House, Sins Tavern, Bent River Brewing, and Pour Bros.; City Hall roof project ($265,300 with Economy Roofing); HVAC retrofit ($480,132 with Johnson Controls); surplus vehicle disposal; uniform rental (5-year with Phelps); intersection reconstructions ($492,963.50 with Walter D. Laud); traffic signal upgrades ($129,300 with Tri-City Electric); and 15th Street at-grade signal agreement with Iowa Interstate Railroad. Item 18.15 was voted separately. - Item 18.3 (Planeteria Media contract): Removed from consent and approved separately (8–0) after Alderperson Schmidt recused himself due to potential conflict. Non-Consent First Reading Ordinances (all advanced to second reading) - 20.1: Amendment to tax report transmittal (Chapter 31). Approved 8–0. - 20.2: Amendment to increase Class B incidental tobacco dealer licenses for Rosy’s Watering Hole. Approved 7–1 (Alderperson Timian voted nay). - 20.3: Repeal of public art requirements for private development (to lower financial burden). Approved 8–0. - 20.4: Amendment to bonding requirements for infrastructure improvements (Section 35-4210). Approved 8–0. Miscellaneous Business - Mayor reported on collaborative efforts for a permanent winter shelter solution and a panel at the Home Illinois conference. She also shared highlights from a youth commission presentation at Moline High School on topics including distracted driving, outdoor gyms, storm drain adoption, and pet waste campaigns. - Alderperson Silas promoted a raffle for the Orpheum Theater’s HVAC fundraiser (trip to Dominican Republic, raffle ends May 30). - Alderperson Timian thanked Ashley Alan Smith for Bike to Work Week events and encouraged alternative transit. - Alderperson Finch added remarks on public art and the “Leading Light” project. Executive Session The council voted (8–0) to convene an executive session for property acquisition and pending litigation. Key Outcomes - All three Committee-of-the-Whole items were approved. - Consent agenda (minus 18.3) and separate 18.15 approved. - Item 18.3 (Planeteria Media) approved after removal. - Four non-consent first-reading ordinances advanced to second reading. - Executive session authorized. - Council will meet again for second readings of the ordinances and further business.

The Moline Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council met on April 30, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. (Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on April 28, 2026, but the assigned date for this summary is April 30, 2026.) The meeting included a sister city signing, a public hearing on code amendments, proclamations, and action on numerous ordinances and resolutions. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the Committee-of-the-Whole and Council meetings of April 7, 2026, and Committee-of-the-Whole minutes of April 14, 2026, along with appointments made at the April 28, 2026 Committee-of-the-Whole. - Approved a second reading ordinance (18.1) increasing the number of Class B Incidental Tobacco Dealer’s Licenses for Webb Services LLC d/b/a Casey’s Tavern. - Approved the following resolutions on consent: - Change Order No. 1 and Final with Hoerr Construction, Inc. for Project 1448, 2025 Sewer Lining Program ($297,120). - Acceptance of five Deeds of Dedication for Street Right-of-Way and five Temporary Construction Easements for Project 22-00289-00-BT, 25th Avenue Shared-Use Path Construction. - Contract with Langman Construction, Inc. for Project 1537, Roadway Improvements on 38th Avenue, 34th to 35th Street ($253,466). - Contract with Phoenix Corporation of the Quad Cities for Project 1511, 2026 Alley Resurfacing Program ($112,645). - Special event approval for the Moline250 event on July 2, 2026. - Special event approval for the Morgan Park 4th of July Parade on July 4, 2026, sponsored by the Glen Oaks Neighborhood Association. - Special event approval for the TBK Quad Cities Marathon and road races on September 26-27, 2026. - Authorization for a State Highway Permit from IDOT for temporary closure of I-74 eastbound ramp to Third Avenue (River Drive) for the Quad Cities Marathon. - Work Authorization 04 with MKSK for Moline Riverfront Schematic Design Proposal – Part I ($182,237). - Authorization to nominate census tracts 219 and 223 for Opportunity Zone 2.0 designation. - Authorization to submit a notice of intent for the STAR Bonds program. - Licensing Agreement with 2 Bad Boyz LLC for outdoor dining deck and barrier fence. Public Comments & Testimony - No in-person public comments were made. One emailed public comment was received but not read due to non-compliance with submission rules; it will be read at the next council meeting. Discussion Items - Sister City Signing with Asbach, Germany: Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati and the Mayor of Asbach, Germany, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a sister city relationship. The Asbach mayor highlighted the presence of John Deere and the Birkner Group (with over 9,000 employees worldwide and a turnover of about 3.5 billion dollars) and presented gifts including a basalt rock from the region. The MOU promotes mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and international friendship without creating legally binding obligations. Council later approved the MOU under non-consent. - Water Art Contest Winner Announcement: Environmental Compliance Manager Charles Brown announced that Josiah Clenty, a third grader from Butterworth Elementary, won the citywide water art contest with a depiction of a fire truck and water tower. Josiah beat out 450 other third graders. His artwork will be featured in the consumer confidence report and displayed at the water administration building. - Clean River Advisory Council Presentation: Dawn Temple and Mitchell Walker presented results from a community survey of nearly 500 respondents about the Mississippi River. Key findings: 65% feel a strong or very strong connection to the river; 52% have personal or family memories tied to it; main barriers to connection include lack of free time and not knowing about events; top concerns are trash, water quality, and flooding. Respondents prioritized nature-based solutions such as planting trees, building rain gardens, and restoring wetlands. The council has distributed $682,000 in grants to 25 projects over two cycles. The presentation emphasized ongoing work through V City USA, partnerships with Prairie Rivers Network and National Wildlife Foundation, and a planned environmental resiliency plan. - Public Hearing – Text Amendments to Chapter 35: The public hearing addressed two amendments: (1) removing the 1% public art requirement for private development along certain corridors (6th Avenue, 12th Street, River Drive, 19th Street) which was seen as a barrier to development; and (2) reducing the maintenance guarantee bond for public improvements from 20% to 10% after acceptance. No public testimony was given in favor or opposition. Council members expressed support, with Alderperson Schmidt noting the public art requirement was a tax that hindered development, and Alderperson Timian commending staff for adapting when policies don't work. The hearing was closed at 6:41 PM. - Proclamations: - National Police Week (May 10-16, 2026) was proclaimed, honoring law enforcement officers. Chief Gault's representative thanked the council for support. - Drinking Water Week (May 3-9, 2026) was proclaimed, recognizing the importance of safe tap water. Utility Director Laura Williams thanked the water treatment plant and lab staff. Committee-of-the-Whole Agenda Items (10.1-10.18) - 10.1: Ordinance amending Chapter 31 to align tax and report transmittal for motorized food vendors with their state reporting schedule (quarterly or annually instead of monthly). Approved unanimously. - 10.2: Licensing Agreement with Finney’s of Moline, LLC dba River House Bar & Grill for outdoor service at the Historic Block Courtyard from May 16 to October 3, 2026. Approved unanimously. - 10.3: Licensing Agreement with 1522 River Dr. LLC dba Sins Tavern for use of adjacent Historic Block Courtyard for an existing barrier fence, tables, and chairs for outdoor service. Approved unanimously. - 10.4: Licensing Agreements with Bent River Brewing Co. and 3BROS Hospitality LLC dba Pour Bros. Craft Taproom for use of Bass Street Landing Public Plaza in conjunction with the Summer Concert Series from May 21 to August 13, 2026. Approved unanimously. - 10.5: Resolution declaring surplus a portion of 2800 48th Avenue and conveying it to IDOT for $12,000 for I-74 interchange improvements. Approved unanimously. - 10.6: Resolution declaring surplus a portion of 3620 38th Avenue and conveying it to IDOT for $9,600 for the same project. Approved unanimously. - 10.7: Independent Contractor Agreement with Economy Roofing & Insulating Co. for the Moline City Hall Roof Project ($265,300). Approved unanimously. - 10.8: Acceptance of a proposal from Johnson Controls for Public Works HVAC Retrofit utilizing Sourcewell contract ($480,132). Alderperson Schmidt asked about the bidding process; staff explained that Johnson Controls provides the current maintenance contract and Sourcewell pricing is competitively bid. Approved unanimously. - 10.9: Resolution declaring vehicles and non-motorized assets as surplus and authorizing disposal via auction or other means. Alderperson Messias asked about the disposal process; staff stated vehicles will go to auction. Approved unanimously. - 10.10: Five-year Rental Service Agreement with Phelps Uniform Specialists for uniform and floor mat rental services. Approved unanimously. - 10.11: Contract with Walter D. Laud, Inc. for Project 1515, 2026 Intersection Reconstructions at 12th Avenue/12th Street and 10th Street/11th Avenue ($492,963.50). Approved unanimously. - 10.12: Acceptance of quote from Tri-City Electric Co. for Project 1531, Avenue of the Cities Signal Upgrades ($129,300 total). Approved unanimously. - 10.13: Construction and Maintenance Agreement with Iowa Interstate Railroad for 15th Street At-Grade Signals (quad gate arms) for the quiet zone project. Alderperson Silas noted the safety and quiet zone benefits; Alderperson Timian confirmed funds were set aside years ago. Approved unanimously. - 10.14: Ordinance amending Chapter 22 to increase the number of Class B Incidental Tobacco Dealer’s Licenses for a vape vending machine at Rosy’s Watering Hole. Extensive debate occurred. Concerns included proliferation of vending machines, enforcement, and need for a broader policy. Alderperson Silas opposed, preferring a comprehensive policy over ad hoc approvals. Alderperson Castro raised enforcement questions. Alderperson McNeil expressed concerns about class C products. Alderperson Timian suggested a new license classification for vending machines. Alderperson Schmidt supported the item, noting it does not change the nature of the bar. City Attorney Vitas noted that state law already regulates vape vending machines strictly and encouraged council to let staff develop a comprehensive policy. The motion passed on a roll call vote: Ayes – Schmidt, Messias, Finch, Castro, McNeil (5); Nays – Silas, Razak, Timian (3). Staff was directed to return with a more robust policy. - 10.15: Resolution approving the special event application for the Quad Cities Distance Classic half marathon and 5K on May 10, 2026, with a $1,000 grant from the Special Events Fund and street closures. Approved unanimously. - 10.16: Resolution authorizing application for an Illinois EPA Public Water Supply Energy Efficiency Grant Program (Round 2) for Variable Frequency Drives on pumps at the Water Treatment Plant (estimated project cost $190,000, grant request $171,000). Alderperson Silas commended staff for pursuing grants. Approved unanimously. - 10.17: Resolution declaring 200-202 20th Street and adjacent parcels surplus and authorizing a Purchase and Sale Agreement with 321 Partners, LLC for $350,000. The proposal includes rehabilitation of the building into 27 residential units and approximately 10,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space, using River Edge redevelopment incentives (including historic tax credits). Discussion covered parking, commercial demand, and trailhead parking for the riverfront. Alderperson Timian requested a “coming soon” sign and public art preservation. Approved unanimously. - 10.18: Professional Services Independent Contractor Agreement with Planeteria Media, Inc. for economic development branding and website services ($48,750 plus up to $8,000/year for hosting and maintenance). Alderperson Parr recused himself due to his firm’s potential competition. Staff explained the tool will communicate development opportunities and successes. Approved unanimously. Council Non-Consent Agenda - 21.1: Resolution authorizing the Sister City MOU with Asbach, Germany. Approved unanimously (8-0). - 21.2: Resolution approving the Quad Cities Distance Classic special event (same as 10.15). Approved unanimously. - 21.3: Resolution authorizing the IEPA grant application for VFDs (same as 10.16). Approved unanimously. - 22.1: First reading of an ordinance approving a Preliminary/Final Development Plan and Rezoning from “NC” to “NC PUD” for an approximately 1.25-acre tract at 2701-2715 Avenue of the Cities. Approved to advance to second reading (8-0). - 22.2: First reading of an ordinance adding an all-way stop at the intersection of Fifty-Fourth Street and Eleventh Avenue C. Approved to advance to second reading (8-0). Key Outcomes - The Sister City relationship with Asbach, Germany was formally established via MOU. - The public hearing on Chapter 35 text amendments concluded with strong council support; the amendments will proceed to a vote. - The vape vending machine license for Rosy’s Watering Hole was approved (5-3), with a directive to staff to develop a comprehensive policy on such licenses. - The sale of 200-202 20th Street to 321 Partners, LLC was approved for a mixed-use redevelopment project. - Numerous contracts, grants, and agreements were approved as listed above. - First reading ordinances for the PUD rezoning and the all-way stop intersection were advanced to second reading. - Council received updates on the loss of jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal, regional homeless shelter discussions, and community partnerships.

The Moline Committee-of-the-Whole met on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting included updates on the community solar farm, the riverfront and centre redevelopment plan, and the formalization of a sister city relationship with Asbach, Germany. Council also received a brief on the temporary homeless shelter closure and other community initiatives. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during either of the two public comment periods. Discussion Items - 7.1 Solar Farm Update – Shawn Ajazi (Community Power Group) reported ongoing discussions with MidAmerican Energy and the Illinois Shines program to establish a community solar billing and crediting mechanism. MidAmerican currently lacks a traditional community solar program, requiring novel regulatory and technical coordination. Attorney Arnie updated that lease negotiations are nearly complete, with only one substantive issue remaining regarding disclosure of funding sources. Council discussed contingency options if the community solar model is not viable, such as selling all five megawatts to the grid and using revenues for city priorities (e.g., low-income neighborhood programs, infrastructure). Mayor Raye Petty urged not letting administrative hurdles block progress. Multiple council members expressed willingness to explore alternative paths rather than abandon the project. Consensus was to continue prioritizing community solar while keeping a fallback option ready. - 7.2 Riverfront + Centre Plan Update – Brett Weidl (MKSK) presented the next design and implementation phases. Site investigation (topographic survey, geotechnical work, environmental testing) has been authorized. The Bridge Point building will be studied for adaptive reuse or partial demolition; early environmental data showed the site to be cleaner than anticipated. Consultant teams for architecture and civil engineering are being selected. The city has formed executive, financial, and technical working groups. A schematic design phase is underway, with an aim to begin demolition and some site work in 2026–2027. Full riverfront park construction is likely in 2028 or later, due to complex permitting (Army Corps, FEMA, IDNR). Council emphasized the need for regular public communication to maintain community trust. A suggestion was made to use the library for static displays of project progress. The gateway site south of River Drive may see earlier activity thanks to separate grants and simpler conditions. - 7.3 Getting to Know Asbach, Germany – Community Engagement Manager Ashley Allen Smith presented an overview of Moline’s new sister city. Asbach (population 23,000) is home to Wirten Group, a road construction equipment firm acquired by John Deere in 2017. The relationship was initiated pre-pandemic and is now being formalized through Sister Cities International. An official signing ceremony will occur at the April 28 City Council meeting. A delegation of German officials will visit April 26–28 with a full itinerary including city facility tours, John Deere Pavilion, library, and local dining. Council members asked about long-term engagement and future reciprocal visits; staff indicated a potential trip to Asbach in fall 2027. The German American Heritage Center will provide translation and cultural context. Other Business - Councilmember Schmidt reported on the United Way community schools program at Washington and Wilson elementary schools, highlighting efforts to address basic needs and improve student outcomes. - Mayor Raye Petty (attending remotely) shared that the city’s fellowship project on East End revitalization will be presented the next day to funders, including the Kresge Foundation. - Staff announced that the temporary winter homeless shelter closed that day after operating since January 21. Data on usage and costs will be compiled to inform a county-led effort for a permanent regional shelter. Key Outcomes - Solar Farm: City attorney will finalize lease negotiations; staff to continue dialogue with MidAmerican on community solar; council endorsed a fallback plan to sell all power to the grid if community solar proves unworkable. - Riverfront: Site investigation will proceed with results expected summer 2026; consultant team for bridge point demolition and adaptive reuse to be selected shortly; schematic design to advance toward phased construction commencing in 2027. - Sister City: Official signing on April 28, 2026; council encouraged ongoing cultural and municipal exchanges; itinerary finalized with public events. - Homeless Shelter: Data from the temporary shelter will be shared with county-led planning for a long-term solution.

The City of Moline held a joint Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council meeting on April 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting addressed a wide range of topics including public comments on video gaming license sunsets, multiple infrastructure contracts, special event approvals, a downtown pedestrianization proposal, and a city-led housing pilot program. Key actions included approval of a $7.95 million lead service line replacement contract, a $182,237 riverfront design work authorization, and a 3-5 vote to retain the sunset provision for Class K video gaming licenses. Public Comments & Testimony - Julie Cox (owner of Julie's): Expressed concern about fairness and consistency of the Class K license sunset, noting her business invested in good faith, employees depend on jobs, and the ordinance shifts gaming elsewhere without addressing addiction. Urged a more balanced approach. - Susan MacAfuse (operator of Susie's video poker locations): Asked the city to reconsider the sunset, noting her businesses contribute licensing fees, support over 25 local employees, and provide stable revenue. Emphasized she is not asking to expand, only to continue operating. - Jeff MacAfuse (building owner of Susie's location): Stated that eliminating businesses would cause revenue loss to neighboring cities, lead to vacant storefronts, reduced property values, and loss of local jobs. Mentioned significant personal investment and bank loans. - John Cox (supporter of K establishments): Described cafes as quiet, controlled environments serving regulars, including elderly patrons like his late mother who could not manage large casinos. Urged retention of these spaces as a unique community asset. - Rachel Cox (operations manager of Julie's): Addressed gambling addiction concerns, arguing the ordinance does not eliminate gaming but shifts it to bars with higher alcohol consumption. Suggested redirecting $300,000 annual city revenue from Class K establishments to addiction recovery programs. - Jason Cox (supporter of Julie's): Highlighted that businesses were approved under specific rules; changing rules later sets a concerning precedent. Stressed jobs are at risk, especially for those who may not find alternate stable employment. Cited other Illinois communities that grandfathered existing cafes. - John Ford (employee at Julie's, age 79): Shared personal story of working extra to supplement Social Security, noting coworkers and elderly patrons depend on the safe, friendly environment. Asked not to shut them down. - Brittany Lasage (resident and employee at Julie's for six years): Emphasized the job supports her household and son's college plans; loss of business would affect her ability to provide for family and create another vacant storefront. - Lewis Kitcher (resident): Raised concerns about the 25th Avenue shared-use path removing trees, and argued the city has a spending problem rather than an income problem. Opposed gambling and marijuana sales as revenue sources. - Sue Ferguson (employee at Julie's, four years): Stated she is handicapped and uses a walker; losing the job would cause a struggle to find employment. Relies on the income to supplement Social Security. - Cheryl Humphrey (lifelong Moline resident, Susie's employee for 10 years): Stated she is retired and needs the supplemental income; concurred with earlier speakers. - Nathan Tilburg (resident): Proposed radical changes for Fifth Avenue, suggesting a bus-only corridor with removal of on-street parking to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment. Encouraged greater pedestrian intermingling to support small businesses. - Dora Schnook (non-resident, works at Susie's): Expressed desire to keep businesses open, noting she and her husband enjoy the camaraderie and need supplemental income. - Aaron Smith (employee at Julie's, retired from Oscar Mayer): Called the workplace laid-back and a great place for people to get out of the house; thanked council for listening. - Paul Breybach (parent of Rachel Cox): Spoke as a parent, noting his daughter is a devoted mother who volunteers in schools thanks to the flexibility of her job; losing the business would affect her family and community involvement. Discussion Items - 7.0 Class K Video Gaming License Sunset (Item 7.17): Alderperson Timion introduced an ordinance to repeal the sunset provision for Class K licenses (set for January 31, 2027). He presented economic impact: $307,000 annual city revenue, stories of employees dependent on jobs, and argued that closing parlors does not tackle addiction while bars retain machines. Council debate: - Alderperson Castro supported removal of sunset, noting the establishments are clean, safe, and serve a different clientele than bars. - Alderperson Schmidt acknowledged compelling arguments for revenue and jobs but said he heard overwhelmingly from constituents who want the sunset to proceed; he voted to keep sunset. - Alderperson Timion (the deciding vote in 2022): Stated that business owners had four years to adapt their models but did not; he supports standing by the original decision. - Alderperson Messias cited quality-of-life concerns and noted that disruptors (online sports betting) will likely sunset the industry anyway; he supported keeping sunset. - Alderperson McNeil noted the industry is changing due to online gambling; favored keeping sunset. Result: Roll call vote: Castro (aye), Schmidt (nay), Silas (aye), Messias (nay), Rosak (nay), Timion (aye), Finch (no vote — chair?), McNeil (nay). Motion to amend sunset failed 3-5, retaining the sunset. - 7.14 Lead Service Line Replacement: Approved contract with Miller Trucking & Excavating for $7,947,755, contingent on IEPA loan. This is phase two of replacing approximately 4,900 lead service lines. - 7.9 Riverfront Schematic Design: Approved Work Authorization 04 with MKSK for $182,237 for site investigation services (surveying, geotechnical, SUE) to support schematic design for the Moline Riverfront redevelopment project. Staff anticipates construction equipment on site in fall 2026. - 7.12 & 7.13 Opportunity Zone 2.0 and STAR Bonds: Approved resolutions to nominate census tracts 219 and 223 for Opportunity Zone 2.0 designation, and to submit a notice of intent for the state STAR Bonds program (focusing on South Park Mall retail area). Staff noted these are early steps in multi-year processes. - Informational Item - Build Moline Pilot (8.1): Alderperson Timion presented a city-led pilot to restore attainable homeownership. The program would use $1 million already budgeted for housing to build 4-5 starter homes (approx. 1,000-1,100 sq ft) on city-owned lots, sold at or below cost to owner-occupants via lottery. Goal is to recycle proceeds into future homes. Council feedback was generally supportive, with discussions on leveraging partners (Habitat for Humanity, nonprofits), marketing to small developers, and using standardized house plans. Staff plans to have a program ready by September 2026. - Other Items: Approved consent calendar (minutes, second-reading ordinances, resolutions) and non-consent items including JAG grant MOU, lead service line contract, and office furniture purchase for Finance Department relocation. Also advanced a first-reading ordinance increasing tobacco dealer licenses. Key Outcomes - Class K Sunset Retained: The motion to amend the sunset provision failed 3-5. Class K licenses will sunset January 31, 2027, as originally scheduled. - Lead Service Line Replacement: Awarded $7,947,755 contract to Miller Trucking & Excavating, contingent on IEPA loan approval. - Riverfront Design: Approved $182,237 for environmental and geotechnical investigation work for the Moline Riverfront redevelopment. - Opportunity Zones & STAR Bonds: Authorized staff to pursue federal Opportunity Zone 2.0 designation for census tracts 219 and 223, and to file a notice of intent for state STAR Bonds program for South Park Mall area. - Build Moline Pilot: Council provided input on the housing pilot program; staff will develop a detailed plan for approval by September 2026. - Consent and Non-Consent Items: Approved consent agenda (minutes, second-reading ordinances, resolutions) and non-consent resolutions (JAG grant, lead service line, office furniture). Advanced first-reading ordinance for tobacco dealer license increase.