Public Meetings - Moline, Illinois

The Moline City Council held a Committee-of-the-Whole meeting followed by a regular City Council meeting in Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting began with the Committee-of-the-Whole reviewing grants, a proclamation, property and lease items, mutual aid membership, surplus property, and an office furniture purchase, and it received informational reports on grants and city operations. The regular Council meeting then approved the consent agenda, advanced two first-reading ordinances, and approved each non-consent resolution on its agenda. Note: The agenda packet is dated Tuesday, April 8, 2025, while the provided meeting timestamp identifies the meeting date as April 10, 2025; the date used below follows the provided timestamp. Consent Calendar - Mayor Sangita Rayapati reappointed Julian Scott Raes and Mark Beckwith to the Firefighters Pension Board for two-year terms expiring April 30, 2027. - Council approved the March 18, 2025 Committee-of-the-Whole, City Council, and Executive Session minutes and the appointments made at the Committee-of-the-Whole on April 8, 2025. - Council approved by one omnibus roll-call vote the consent agenda containing a one-hour parking restriction for 1721 5th Avenue; an increased video gaming terminal cap for ETA Table and Tap; the Tri-City Electric water treatment plant electrical service contract at $298,856; McCarthy Improvement Change Order No. 1 for 48th Street Reconstruction at $33,730.90; the Porter Brothers 2025 Asphalt Maintenance Program contract at $301,380 with total expenditures not to exceed $350,000; and the Cornbelt Running Club Quad Cities Distance Classic special event with a $500 special-events grant and street closures. Public Comments & Testimony - Marcy Fosdick, pickleball tournament director, spoke in support of the requested $7,500 Special Events Fund grant for the Quad Cities Classic Pickleball Tournament. She said the seventh annual tournament will be held September 11-14, 2025, at Riverside Park and the Quad City Tennis Club; participation grew from 230 in 2021 to 419 last year, including 30 youth and 205 out-of-state visitors; it produced an estimated $153,423 in economic impact, a $16,942 increase over the prior year; the tournament donated $5,000 to five charities and taught 327 youth and 350 adults to play pickleball. She asked the Council to support the grant again. Proclamation - The Council proclaimed the week of April 6-12, 2025 as National Library Week under the theme Drawn to the Library. Library representative Brian Lear thanked the Council and previewed the upcoming library gardens project. Discussion Items Committee-of-the-Whole Items - 8.1: The Council approved a $1,500 Special Events Fund grant to the 12th Annual Fall Belgian Festival to be held September 14, 2025. - 8.2: The Council approved an ordinance dedicating the parcel at 700 15th Street as public right-of-way. Asbestos removal is complete and Public Works will soon demolish the building. - 8.3: The Council approved a $7,500 Special Events Fund grant to the Quad Cities Pickleball Club. Alderpersons praised the club’s youth investment and nonprofit outreach and asked staff to connect the club with the Youth Commission. - 8.4: The Council approved the First Amendment extending the intergovernmental fiber optic system lease agreement with Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit Authority (MetroLINK). Ald. Schmidt disclosed that his firm works with MetroLINK and stated it was not a conflict, but he wanted it noted for awareness. - 8.5: The Council approved a resolution appointing each Alderperson to serve as Mayor Pro Tem on a rotating monthly basis during the Mayor’s term. - 8.6: The Council approved an ordinance removing fees for library Compass ID cards. Staff said the current $10 individual and $25 family fees may discourage use, and only about $3,750 in revenue was budgeted. Alderpersons supported removing the financial barrier and asked staff to reach out to organizations such as Humility Homes and Project Now; staff agreed to follow up. - 8.7: The Council approved three one-year agricultural leases for city-owned property at Pryce Farms, Runge Farm, and Bealer Farm with Mitchel Trouten from April 9, 2025 through April 8, 2026. Staff noted a possible future solar farm discussion for one property, with RFP results to return to Council. - 8.8: The Council approved membership in the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN) under the amended intergovernmental agreement. The amendment clarifies that mutual aid can apply to day-to-day operations and establishes a procedure for future amendments. - 8.9: The Council approved declaring two non-motorized assets, a salt conveyor belt and a sandbag maker, as surplus for FY 2025 and authorized disposal by the method most advantageous to the city. - 8.10: The Council approved a licensing agreement with Stoney Creek Inn allowing outdoor service of alcoholic liquor and food at Bass Street Landing Public Plaza from April 23, 2025 through September 30, 2025. - 8.11: The Council approved ceding the city’s 2025 home rule private activity bonding authority allocation of $5,455,450 to the Quad Cities Regional Economic Development Authority (QCREDA). Discussion noted that this keeps the allocation available locally for projects such as housing, industrial revenue bonds, and not-for-profit facilities; examples cited included Heritage Place, Whitey’s Ice Cream manufacturing, Heritage Woods, and the Coney Center/Blackwell project. - 8.12: The Council approved the purchase of office furniture for the City Services Center from Allmakes Office Furniture, Inc. for $177,919.17 using Omnia Partners contract R191804. Staff expedited the purchase because of an anticipated 2.5 percent tariff price increase and stated that usable furniture would be repurposed and the rest liquidated. Informational Reports - Dawn Temple, Management Analyst and Grant Coordinator, presented the Grant Report Update. She explained that grants move through multiple stages and most take two to five years; 2024 grant awards were about $18 million, but cash received reflects earlier project stages. The largest grant the city has ever received, referred to in the transcript as both DCP and DOD, totals $11.5 million, with about $3 million expected to be received in 2025; NEPA review is ongoing and construction is targeted to begin around August. She also said the RAISE grant is now called BUILD; $1.5 billion was originally available, about 90 percent was distributed just before the Biden administration left office, leaving little remaining; Rock Island received funding on its fourth or fifth attempt; and another grant round is expected in November. Other highlights included utility lighting upgrades replacing more than 1,000 fixtures, additional tree canopy funding, and smaller grants supporting police, public works, parks, and library marketing. - Bob Vitas, City Administrator, presented the April 2025 Status & Information Report. Highlights included: the Moline Riverfront Master Plan is about 90 percent complete and expected before Council no later than May; passenger rail discussions are continuing locally and in Springfield, including efforts to make rail a state priority; a memorial redbud tree for former Mayor Stan Leach is scheduled to be planted on April 22; the National Community Survey and National Business Survey sent postcards to 4,000 randomly selected households, with an open survey beginning April 25 and results available by ward; Bee City USA designation is official; property acquisitions are moving forward, including 15th Street properties and closings for the 7th Street fire station site; and the city’s new emergency alert system already has 17,000 customers enrolled and can target specific areas or reach employees. City Council Regular Meeting - The Council held the Pledge of Allegiance, received a roll call, and approved the consent agenda and minutes under the omnibus vote. - First reading ordinance 19.1, amending Chapter 2, Section 2-4600 regarding a commission establishment, was advanced to second reading. - First reading ordinance 19.2, amending Chapter 2, Section 2-2207 regarding order of business, was advanced to second reading. Discussion indicated public comment would be reduced from several opportunities to two per evening, one at Committee-of-the-Whole and one at City Council, while preserving public comment at every public meeting. - Resolution 20.1, a $195,515.10 contract with Miller Trucking and Excavating for the 2025 Culvert Replacement Project, was approved. - Resolution 20.2, the three farm lease agreements with Mitchel Trouten, was approved. - Resolution 20.3, declaring vehicles and non-motorized assets surplus and authorizing their disposal, was approved. Discussion addressed possible tariff-driven price increases for replacement vehicles; staff said replacement schedules and state joint purchasing contracts are used, and the City Administrator said upcoming budget work would include belt-tightening. - Resolution 20.4, the Allmakes office furniture purchase for $177,919.17, was approved. - Resolution 20.5, a Motor Fuel Tax improvement resolution for 34th Street Reconstruction from 4th Avenue to University Drive at $800,000, was approved. One Alderperson said residents had emailed about that street section and that they were glad to see the project move forward. - Resolution 20.6, appointing Ashley R. Kilker as the city’s authorized agent for Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) matters, was approved. Before the vote, staff voiced strong concerns about IMRF customer service, including a new website that removed functionality, hold times of two and a half to three hours, standard response times of 10 business days, delayed retirement applications, new retirees waiting 8 to 12 weeks for a first pension payment, and IMRF representing more than 3,000 employers. Staff said they plan to work with IPELRA and other municipalities to seek changes and noted possible legislation. The City Administrator also said he shared the concerns with the governor’s liaison. - Resolution 20.7, purchasing light fixtures from Springfield Electric Supply Company for the 7th Avenue Reconstruction project at $199,040.85, was approved. - Resolution 20.8, a $2,998,156.21 contract with Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities, Inc. for the 7th Avenue Reconstruction project, was approved. - In miscellaneous business, the Mayor highlighted an Illinois DOT State Transportation Improvement Program public comment period and encouraged the Council and community to submit comments supporting passenger rail as a state-added project; she said the comment period ends in 15 days, about 11 days from the meeting. Alderpersons also noted upcoming events including a First Ward meeting, the Humility Homes immersion experience on May 2, and a new yarn shop in Old Town, and discussed city digital sign rules that are being finalized for city-related messaging rather than private advertising. Key Outcomes - The Committee-of-the-Whole approved all 8.1 through 8.12 agenda items, generally by unanimous voice vote. - The City Council approved the consent agenda, first-reading advances, and all non-consent resolutions by unanimous roll-call votes of eight ayes and no nays. - The Council issued the National Library Week proclamation for April 6-12, 2025. - The next steps identified include: following up on Compass ID outreach to community organizations; continuing IMRF advocacy with other municipalities and state contacts; monitoring the BUILD/RAISE grant timeline and November round; submitting comments during the STIP public comment period for passenger rail; bringing Riverfront Master Plan and solar farm RFP results back to Council; and finalizing digital sign rules. - The Council voted to enter executive session for discussion of appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees under ILCS 120/2(c)(1) and property acquisition under ILCS 120/2(c)(5), then adjourned.

The Moline City Council met on March 19, 2025, in a combined Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council session. The meeting covered a wide range of items including public comments on the grocery tax and child care needs, the oath of office for a new firefighter/paramedic, board appointments, approval of contracts for water treatment plant improvements, asphalt maintenance, and a special event permit. The major focus was the approval of three property purchases totaling $1,213,500 for a new central fire station, with discussions on site selection and financing. The council also approved several ordinances and resolutions, including a reordering of the meeting agenda to maintain public comment at the beginning of the council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Arthur Bodenbender (owner of Katie's Import Foods on 7th Street) expressed strong opposition to the city's food tax (grocery tax). He argued the tax is regressive, unfair to families, and incentivizes residents to shop in Iowa. He criticized the city for not making the issue headline news and for a lack of public notice. He stated the tax was originally a gift from the state and urged the city to find other revenue sources such as taxes on automobiles, furniture, entertainment, and lodging. He concluded by saying, "Shame on you." - Emily Cummings and Heather Anderson (representing Birth to Five Illinois) spoke about the need for improved child care systems in the region. They highlighted three priorities: optimizing the workforce, streamlining service coordination (including a crisis nursery), and supporting mental and behavioral health for both children and teachers. They called for systems of support for families in crisis. - Jacqueline (a Moline homeowner) spoke during the council meeting about the tobacco and vaping ordinance (Item 15.1). She proposed restrictions such as a one-mile distance from educational facilities and a half-mile distance between vape shops. She also suggested a no-vape area outside businesses. She expressed concern about youth congregating at such establishments. Oath of Office - Seth Wallace was sworn in as a regular commissioned Firefighter/Paramedic, effective February 13, 2025. Chief Steve Regenwether introduced him, noting his background from Princeton, Illinois, and his training. Wallace took the oath of office administered by the Mayor. Board Appointments - Reappointment of Nina Little to the Moline Commission on Youth for a 3-year term expiring March 31, 2028. - Reappointment of Joseph Thawn to the Moline Commission on Youth for a 3-year term expiring March 31, 2028. - Appointment of Denver Schmidt to the Keep Moline Beautiful Commission for a 3-year term expiring November 30, 2027. (A thank you was extended to Andy Parr for filling in prior.) Committee-of-the-Whole Agenda Items - 8.1 – Resolution approving an agreement with Tri-City Electric Company for water treatment plant electric service improvements, including transformer replacement, for $298,856. Approved unanimously. - 8.2 – Resolution approving Change Order No. 1 and Final with McCarthy Improvement Company for 48th Street Reconstruction, for $33,730.90. Approved unanimously. - 8.3 – Resolution approving a contract with Porter Brothers Construction for the 2025 Asphalt Maintenance Program, for $301,380, with a budget not to exceed $350,000. Approved unanimously. - 8.4 – Resolution approving a special event application for the Quad Cities Distance Classic (May 11, 2025) sponsored by the Cornbelt Running Club, including a $500 grant and street closures. Approved unanimously. - 8.5 – Ordinance amending Chapter 2 of the Moline Code regarding the Keep Moline Beautiful Commission (Section 2-4600) to eliminate an inconsistent staff project coordinator position, aligning with past practice. Approved unanimously. - 8.6 – Ordinance amending Chapter 2 regarding the order of business (Section 2-2207). The city attorney explained changes to align the agenda with practice, including adding remote electronic attendance and reordering public comment. Alderperson Schmidt moved to amend to reinsert public comment after remote electronic attendance and before the consent agenda, to ensure public comment occurs at the beginning of every council meeting. The amendment passed. The ordinance as amended was approved. - 8.7 – Resolution authorizing purchase of two properties at 1500 and 1508 7th Street from Metropolitan Towers, L.L.C., for $705,500, for the new central fire station. Mr. Vitas presented background: the existing central fire station (built 1972) needed $8-9 million in repairs, and a study recommended relocation near 7th Street and 12th Avenue. The site was chosen after evaluating other options. Financing is timed to align with retiring debt to avoid a property tax increase. Council members expressed strong support (Timian, Castro, Schmidt). Approved unanimously. - 8.8 – Resolution authorizing purchase of a vacant lot at 7th Street and 16th Avenue from 833 Sixteenth Avenue IL Owner LLC for $48,000, part of the fire station project. Approved unanimously. - 8.9 – Resolution authorizing purchase of property at 1410 7th Street from Hybrid Medical Group, LLC, for $460,000, part of the fire station project. Approved unanimously. Consent Agenda (City Council) - 13.1 – Minutes of March 4, 2025, and appointments made March 18, 2025. Approved. - 15.1-15.3 – Second reading ordinances: increasing Class B Incidental Tobacco Dealer’s Licenses (ODC QC LLC), vacating a drainage easement at 2930 41st Street, and authorizing borrowing from the Illinois Public Water Supply Loan Program for lead service line replacements. Approved. - 16.1-16.6 – Resolutions: contracts for 2025 Sidewalk Program ($299,450), 30th Avenue Reconstruction ($1,957,886.72) and change order ($57,128.40), 2025 Inlet Replacement Program ($104,880), declaring BCI Burke Playground at Browning Park surplus and donating to Kids Around the World, Inc., and authorizing a rock salt contract for 2025/2026 winter season (4,000 tons, minimum 3,200 tons). All approved. Non-Consent Agenda Resolutions - 18.1 – Purchase of 1500 and 1508 7th Street (same as 8.7). Approved unanimously. - 18.2 – Purchase of vacant lot (same as 8.8). Approved unanimously. - 18.3 – Purchase of 1410 7th Street (same as 8.9). Approved unanimously. - 18.4 – Licensing agreement with 1848 Entertainment, LLC (dba PUB 1848) for use of Bass Street Landing Public Plaza for outdoor service of alcohol and food from April 19 to September 30, 2025. The city attorney clarified that the license does not restrict private event alcohol service. Approved unanimously. Non-Consent Agenda First Reading Ordinances - 19.1 – Ordinance amending parking restrictions to include two on-street stalls at 1721 5th Avenue. Advanced to second reading. - 19.2 – Ordinance increasing video gaming terminal licensed establishments at request of Denis LLC (dba ETA Table and Tap, 2601 52nd Avenue). Advanced to second reading. Miscellaneous Business - The Mayor announced a trip to Washington, D.C., to lobby for a grant (formerly TIGER/RAISE) for the downtown riverfront project. A list of "red flag words" from the Secretary of Transportation will be shared. - Upcoming listening posts (east and west side) in April to discuss the strategic plan and the grocery tax. - Alderperson Murphy reminded that COVID-19 holiday meal vouchers will be available April 5 at City Hall. - Alderperson Timian reported on a Humility Homes informational session: 40% of their funding is federal, and they could operate for nine months without it before selling properties. He encouraged donations of clothes or money, which have a government match. - Alderperson Finch noted Moline Rotary and Boys & Girls Club are installing pollinator gardens for the Bee City Initiative. - The Mayor reported that HUD funding for 2025 remains flat, and the city met with the school district about bus safety; Metrolink will move a major pickup spot to behind the high school on April 8th. - Mr. Vitas added that the April 15th round table will feature Andrea Carbine presenting a study on a public market place for Moline, which the study found supportable. - The Fire Chief thanked the council for advancing the new central fire station, noting it had been discussed for 20 years. Executive Session - The council moved into executive session to discuss appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1)) and property acquisition (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5)). Motion approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All three property purchases for the new central fire station were approved (total $1,213,500). - The ordinance reordering the meeting agenda was amended to retain public comment at the beginning of council meetings and passed. - All consent and non-consent agenda items were approved, including contracts, change orders, and licenses. - Two first-reading ordinances were advanced to second reading. - The council will continue discussions on the grocery tax, strategic plan, and public market study at upcoming meetings.

The meeting began at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall. The Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council considered routine approvals, public safety appointments, infrastructure contracts, and a proclamation for Women in Construction Week. All votes were unanimous. No public comments were offered. Oath of Office - Officer Ryan Rochholz, a Moline native and Western Illinois University graduate, was sworn in as a regular commissioned police officer effective February 28, 2025. He was commissioned after completing his probationary period. - Officer Cooper Sant Amour, also a Moline native and St. Ambrose University graduate with prior service in the Iowa correctional system, was sworn in as a regular commissioned police officer effective February 28, 2025. Proclamation - The Mayor proclaimed March 2–8, 2025, as "Women in Construction Week" in Moline, recognizing the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Quad Cities Chapter 50 for its 64 years of service, scholarship programs, and community partnerships. Chapter representatives Kelly Porham, Sarah Colbrees, and Julie Galati accepted the proclamation. Discussion Items - 10.1 2025 Sidewalk Program: Approved a contract with Emery Construction Group, Inc. for $299,450, with total project budget not to exceed $350,000. The program covers sidewalk repairs citywide. - 10.2 One-Hour Parking Restriction at 1721 5th Avenue: Approved an ordinance adding two on-street stalls for one-hour parking at the request of Duckies on Fifth Avenue, to ensure customer access during upcoming construction. Alderperson Timian asked staff to provide the business owner with the phone number for reporting violations. - 10.3 Video Gaming Terminal License Increase for ETA Table and Tap: Approved an ordinance increasing the number of video gaming terminals in the city to allow Dennis LLC (d/b/a ETA Table and Tap) to operate gaming at the former Denny’s location at 2601 52nd Avenue. Councilmember Schmidt noted the establishment also holds a Class A liquor license and that gaming complements the restaurant. - 10.4 & 10.5 30th Avenue Reconstruction Contract and Change Order: Approved a $1,957,886.72 contract with Walter D. Laud, Inc. for project 1483, and Change Order No. 1 for $57,128.40 to replace PVC water main with ductile iron based on EPA recommendations. Alderperson Dreyer noted the project has been long awaited for Third Ward residents. Councilmember Timian observed that even with the change order, the total cost remained lower than competing bids. - 10.6 2025 Inlet Replacement Program: Approved a $104,880 contract with J.C. Dillon, Inc. for annual inlet replacements. - 10.7 Donation of Browning Park Playground: Approved declaring the 2006 BCI Burke playground as surplus and donating it to Kids Around the World, Inc., a nonprofit that repurposes playgrounds in 87 countries. Parks Director Griffith highlighted the cost savings and promotional benefit. - 10.8 Purchase of 620 17th Street (Little White House): Approved a $50,000 purchase from the Kathryn A. Blade Living Trust. The property, adjacent to city-owned squad car storage, will be returned to housing inventory with potential partnership from MCDC. Alderperson Dreyer expressed support for the initiative. - 10.9 IHDA Home Repair and Accessibility Program (HRAP) Grant Application: Approved a resolution authorizing the Community and Economic Development Department to apply for a $1,000,000 grant from the Illinois Housing Development Authority. Staff indicated the grant would fund at least 20 houses over two years with no federal funds. - 10.10 2025/2026 Rock Salt Contract: Approved a joint participation agreement with Illinois CMS to purchase 4,000 tons of rock salt (minimum 3,200, maximum 4,800) for the next winter season. Staff noted both salt storage facilities will be at capacity to meet the 80% purchase obligation. - 10.11 Licensing Agreement with PUB 1848 for Bass Street Landing: Approved a licensing agreement allowing outdoor alcohol and food service at the public plaza from April 19 to September 30, 2025. Councilmember Schmidt raised a question about potential conflicts with private events; Corporation Counsel Atkins agreed to review the language to ensure the city can opt out of service if desired. Informational Report – March 2025 Status & Report City Administrator Vitas highlighted: - Completion of Morgan Park bike path Phase 1 engineering. - Completion of LED lighting upgrade at the water treatment plant (federal grant). - Sale of the parking lot at 12th Street and 4th Avenue to the Element Hotel, closed February 14. - Expansion of the internship program with Moline-Coal Valley High School. - New Doppler phone system for utility notifications (boil orders, breaks, snow routes). - Concerns about potential HUD staffing cuts (proposed 84% reduction) affecting federal funding like CDBG ($800,000 annually). Councilmember Schmidt noted the city's budget cannot absorb such cuts and appreciated the transparency. Key Outcomes All votes were unanimous (7-0) on the following actions: - Approved minutes of February 18, 2025. - Approved consent agenda including the Grocery Retailers Occupation Tax, a special event permit for Empowering Abilities, disposal of surplus vehicles/assets, patching program contract with Langman Construction ($1,239,653), change order for 16th Street intersection reconfiguration ($21,386.66), and a licensing agreement with Pathway Church for a sign. - Approved non-consent resolutions: Concession product agreement with Myers-Cox Co.; purchase of 620 17th Street ($50,000); and application for IHDA HRAP Grant ($1,000,000). - Advanced first-reading ordinances: Increase in Class B tobacco dealer licenses (ODC QC); vacation of a drainage easement at 2930 41st Street; and borrowing from Illinois Public Water Supply Loan Program for lead service line replacements over 18 years. - Regarding panhandling concerns (group from Peoria), Chief Gault stated the department is balancing lawful free speech with traffic violations; residents are encouraged to call police in real time rather than contacting elected officials. Next steps: Staff will finalize contracts and agreements; the HRAP grant application is due by March 14, 2025. The City Administrator will travel to Springfield for legislative meetings on passenger rail, River's Edge development, and other priorities.

On February 19, 2025, at 6:00 PM, the Moline Committee-of-the-Whole convened at City Hall to discuss two primary agenda items: the National Community Survey and National Business Survey, and the Tree Bank policy. The meeting also addressed several miscellaneous items. No public comments were received. Discussion Items 8.1 National Community Survey & National Business Survey - Ashley Allen Smith (Community Engagement Manager) and Alec Vice (Polco representative, appearing virtually) presented the surveys. The National Community Survey will be distributed to a random sample of 3,000 households, achieving a 5% margin of error. It measures 10 facets of livability and supports strategic planning. Data collection spans six weeks, with a follow-up open participation survey in the final two weeks. Results will be provided as a PDF and Tableau dashboard. - Alec Vice noted that Polco (formerly National Research Center) has collected data from over 600 communities for the community survey and approximately 80 for the business survey. Custom benchmark comparisons are available for the community survey. The business survey targets up to 4,000 businesses and uses a census methodology. - Council members discussed language options (Spanish is most requested), the ability to segment results by council ward or neighborhood, and the inclusion of custom questions. Concerns were raised about the business survey’s redundancy with existing data from the Chamber of Commerce and school district surveys, particularly regarding workforce development (Section 8). Some members favored removing that section to reduce burden on businesses, while others emphasized the need for a baseline to measure business friendliness. Alec confirmed that questions can be struck without affecting benchmarking, as long as wording and order are preserved. - Council also explored adding custom questions on social infrastructure and loneliness, with Alec noting his team of survey experts can help craft appropriate wording to avoid cognitive burden and leading responses. 8.2 Tree Bank - Chris Mathias (Director of Community and Economic Development) reviewed current landscaping and tree protection regulations, including requirements for new developments, thresholds for redevelopment (25% and 75% of building value), and woodland protections focused on forest stands rather than single trees. He questioned the need for a Tree Bank (fee-in-lieu program), citing existing variance processes and successful grant-funded tree planting (e.g., from the US Forest Service, Morton Arboretum). - Council debated the merits of fee-in-lieu payments. Some members noted that parking lot trees provide environmental benefits (shade, stormwater management) and should not be easily substituted. Others observed that the city has adequate funding for tree planting through grants, and the real challenge is forestry management—addressing dead trees, invasive species, and species selection. Alderpersons expressed a strong desire to reforest street rights-of-way with appropriate, non-invasive species that won’t damage infrastructure. - A consensus emerged to replace the strategic goal of a “Tree Bank” with a broader “Forestry Management Plan” that prioritizes tree canopy health, public and private property management, and replanting efforts. The zoning code update (planned in 1-2 years) should also revisit the list of approved tree species to emphasize ecological value. Miscellaneous Business - A volunteer is needed to replace McNeils on the Bi-State Commission (meets third Wednesday of each month at 11:30 AM). - The City Manager shared that the city received U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Justice memoranda regarding policies affecting immigrant communities, and noted local “Know Your Rights” campaigns. - A snow angel call-to-action was announced for February 20; council members were encouraged to assist neighbors with shoveling. - Staff requested council input on custom survey questions within one week to stay on track for a May launch and June strategic planning session. - No executive session was held; the meeting adjourned. Key Outcomes - The committee agreed in principle to reframe the Tree Bank initiative as a Forestry Management Plan, with further development by Community and Economic Development staff. - Staff will gather council members’ suggestions for custom survey questions by the end of the week to finalize the survey instrument.

The Moline City Council met on February 19, 2025, for a Committee-of-the-Whole session followed by the regular City Council meeting. All agenda items were approved unanimously, with no public comments received. Key actions included approval of a 2025 patching program contract, a property sale with in-kind improvements, and a lead service line loan authorization. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes: Approved minutes from the February 4 and February 11, 2025 meetings. - Resolutions (13.1–13.3): Approved a special event application for the TBK Quad Cities Marathon (September 27-28, 2025) including street closures and an I-74 ramp closure permit; approved Change Order No. 1 for the 2024 Asphalt Resurfacing Program with Langman Construction, Inc. for $49,304.04. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Spring Classic 5K (Item 6.1): Approved street closure at 17th Street cul-de-sac on April 19, 2025, 6:45 AM–1 PM for the Empowering Abilities event. Alderperson Finch disclosed a business relationship with Empowering Abilities but no conflict of interest. - Surplus Vehicle Disposal (Item 6.2): Approved declaring vehicles and equipment on Exhibit A as surplus for disposal. - 2025 Patching Program (Item 6.3): Approved a $1,239,653 contract with Langman Construction, Inc. for pavement patching and water utility cut restoration. - 16th Street Intersection Change Order (Item 6.4): Approved final change order No. 2 for $21,386.66 for additional sidewalk, electrical, push buttons, and traffic control. - Equitable Sharing Agreement (Item 6.5 & 16.1): Approved annual DOJ certification for federal forfeiture funds; Chief Galt reported $2,000 in DOJ funds and $8,000 from a U.S. Secret Service fund for a forensic computer unit. - Tobacco License Amendment (Item 6.6): Increased Class B incidental tobacco dealer licenses for ODC QC LLC (d/b/a ODC QC). Alderperson Timion and Clerk clarified that the business already holds a Class C (head shop) license, which is permissible. Alderperson Finch expressed support for the business. - Easement Vacation (Item 6.7): Vacated a 1,830 sq ft drainage/utility easement at 2930 41st Street to allow development of a four-plex and duplex. Developer Brian Trapkiss will build over the easement. - Property Sale with Parking Lot (Item 6.8 & 16.2): Approved sale of 700 15th Street to NBI Plus, LLC for $10 plus installation of an asphalt parking lot (est. $43,500) at adjacent property 1514 7th Avenue. The parking lot will be part of the 7th Avenue reconstruction project. - Lead Service Line Loan (Item 6.9): Authorized borrowing from the Illinois Public Water Supply Loan Program for lead service line replacements over 18 years; Moline received $3 million in forgivable funds for 300 lines in FY2025. - Pathway Church Sign (Item 6.10): Approved a licensing agreement for an existing sign at 4330 12th Avenue in public right-of-way; no utility conflicts found. - Municipal Grocery Tax (Item 17.1): Advanced a first-reading ordinance implementing a municipal grocery retailers' occupation tax and grocery service occupation tax to a second reading. Key Outcomes - All Committee-of-the-Whole and Council agenda items passed unanimously (7-0). - The grocery tax ordinance will return for a second reading at a future meeting. - Miscellaneous business included expressions of gratitude to snow angels and public works for recent snow removal, and acknowledgment of staff illnesses. - Meeting adjourned after unanimous vote. Note: The meeting's agenda and transcript indicate a date of February 18, 2025, but the source material provided specifies the meeting occurred on February 19, 2025, which is used here.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, but the provided date is February 5, 2025. This summary uses the provided date per instructions. The Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council met on the evening of February 5, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine approvals, a major grocery tax ordinance, special event permits, and informational updates. Key decisions included approving the Quad Cities Marathon street closures, adopting a municipal grocery tax to offset state funding reductions, and advancing three tobacco license amendments. Public comment was not offered. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of January 21, 2025 (Committee-of-the-Whole, Council, and Executive Session). - Approved second reading of an ordinance amending sign and zoning regulations (Chapter 3 and 35). - Approved an ordinance authorizing borrowing from the Water Pollution Control Loan Program for South Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements. - Approved an overhead electric easement to MidAmerican Energy Company (PIN: 0835140010). - Approved Change Order No. 1 and Final with General Constructors, Inc. for Midtowne Parking Ramp Expansion Joint Repairs ($15,638.79). - Approved Change Order No. 1 and Final with General Constructors, Inc. for Midtowne Parking Ramp Access Controls ($23,719.57). - Approved a resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute loan documents for the Water Pollution Control Loan Program for South Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements. - Approved a resolution regarding Executive Session minutes – release, retention, and destruction of recordings. - Approved a resolution with Cunningham Recreation/GameTime for playground surfacing and curbs at Browning Park ($169,757.00) using OMNIA Contract 2017001134. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during either the Committee-of-the-Whole or the City Council public comment periods. Discussion Items 6.1 – Quad Cities Marathon Special Event Application – Staff recommended approval and noted that the 16th Street overpass construction would not block roadways during the event. The marathon is scheduled for September 27–28, 2025. Alderperson Timian asked about the contract term; staff confirmed 11 years remain on a 15-year agreement. The motion passed unanimously. 6.2 – IDOT Permit for I-74 Ramp Closure – Staff recommended approval as a routine step in conjunction with the marathon. The resolution authorizes temporary closure of the I-74 eastbound ramp to Third Avenue/River Drive on September 28, 2025. Passed unanimously. 6.3 – Municipal Grocery Retailers’ Occupation Tax – City Administrator Bob Vitas presented the ordinance, explaining that the state’s 2025 freeze on the grocery tax reduction (estimated at $1 million loss) would reduce the city’s general fund balance below its historic 20–25% reserve by FY2028. He recommended approval to maintain a healthy fund balance. Alderperson Schmidt expressed initial reluctance, citing the regressive nature of grocery taxes, but noted that “absolute chaos coming out of the federal government with threats to removing municipal funding” required a reversal of his stance. He supported the ordinance. Alderperson Timian echoed that the $1 million estimate is likely conservative and that the tax is “already being collected by the state” and transferred to the city. He noted East Moline, Rock Island, and Milan had already passed similar taxes. The Mayor added that she has communicated with state officials about the need for state support for municipalities. The ordinance passed unanimously. 6.5 – Change Order No. 1 and Final with Langman Construction – Approved for the 2024 Asphalt Resurfacing Program ($49,304.04). The motion passed unanimously. 7.1 – February 2025 Status & Information Report – City Administrator Bob Vitas reported on the rental licensing program: 1,318 licenses issued to date, with only 39 properties in the “C” category (requiring substantial work). He noted the program is paying for itself and improving tenant quality of life. He also highlighted the State of the City address, full staffing in police and fire departments, and reduced vacancies. Alderperson Timian praised the rental program’s reputation among tenants, who recommend it to each other, and urged continuous improvement. The Mayor added that economic development conversations are ongoing, including for the mall site, but no announcements yet. Non-Consent Resolutions: 16.1 – Economic Development Partnership with Grow Quad Cities – The resolution was removed from the table and approved. Alderperson Messias recused himself due to his board membership with the QC Chamber. Alderperson Schmidt disclosed a business relationship with the chamber but stated it was not a conflict. The vote was 6-0-1 (Messias recused). First Reading Ordinances (Tobacco License Increases): 17.1, 17.2, 17.3 – Three ordinances to increase the number of tobacco licenses for Hass Smoke Shop, Grace Store LLC (Vantage Pointe), and JS Liquor & Food Inc. (Five Star Liquor & Food). For each, the council voted to amend the motion to specify a Class B license (per the new tobacco ordinance classes) and then advanced to second reading. All votes were unanimous (7-0). Key Outcomes - Quad Cities Marathon approved for September 27–28, 2025, with street closures and IDOT ramp closure. - Municipal Grocery Tax adopted to offset an estimated $1 million state funding reduction, effective FY2025. - Tobacco license increases for three businesses advanced to second reading, each designated as Class B. - Economic Development Partnership with Grow Quad Cities approved (6-0-1). - Change orders for asphalt resurfacing ($49,304.04), parking ramp repairs ($15,638.79), and access controls ($23,719.57) approved. - Playground improvements at Browning Park ($169,757.00) approved. - Executive Session convened for discussion of property acquisition (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5)) and pending litigation (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(11)). Miscellaneous Business - The Mayor recognized Black History Month and noted her participation in the Illinois Farm Bureau’s urban farming track. - Alderperson Timian praised the Frost and Fire Festival and the new City Service Center (former Bethany location) for hosting soccer matches. - The Mayor updated the council on the federal funding freeze affecting World Relief: 209 refugees have been resettled in the Quad Cities since October 2024, including 64 in Moline. The stop-work order on the 90-day resettlement program remains despite the freeze being rescinded. She has coordinated with the county board chair and state officials, but no concrete solutions yet. - City Administrator Vitas announced the upcoming strategic planning process, including a community survey by Polco (a national firm). The random sample will include all wards. He also congratulated staff on the State of the City event.

The meeting included presentations on the South Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade (estimated cost of $110 million) and HUD housing reports, followed by approval of routine items, tobacco license increases, and advancement of ordinances. The Grow Quad Cities agreement was tabled for further review due to missing document updates. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: Minutes of January 7, 2025; appointments made at Committee-of-the-Whole; consent agenda items 16.1 (childcare obligations ordinance), 16.2 (stop intersection changes), and 17.2 (Bee City USA designation). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - South Slope Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement (Interim Director of Utilities Charles Brown and Troy Stinson of Strand Associates): Presenters outlined the 2030 phosphorus limit mandate, need to replace aging equipment, and updated cost from $70 million (2021) to an estimated $110 million. Major cost drivers included flood elevation requirements (100-year flood), Build America Buy America compliance (estimated $5 million), inflation, and contractor bidding climate. Options to reduce costs include deductive bid alternatives (e.g., eliminating operations building, using cheaper screening equipment). City Administrator Bob Vitas committed to a detailed review before finalizing loan documents. - HUD Housing Reports: - Housing Needs Assessment (Points Consulting, presented by Jesse Johnson): Forecasted population decline under status quo or up to 20% increase with optimistic economic development. Recommended land bank acceleration, step-up housing program, community land trust, and high-density units in urban cores. Council questioned rent impact, zoning reform, and duplex conversions. The report's full 200-page study includes rent trends and homelessness data. - Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (Jeremy Gray, Mosaic Community Planning): Identified four impediments: insufficient affordable housing, lack of targeted investment in underserved areas, unequally distributed publicly supported housing, and need for fair housing education. Recommendations included using CDBG funds for housing supply, workforce development in underserved areas, landlord voucher program incentives, and targeted outreach to limited English proficient communities. - Strategic Plan Dashboard FY24 Q4 (Bob Vitas): Reported 32% completion of 47 projects, 57.5% on track, and only 6.4% behind. Zoning reform project on hold pending comprehensive plan RFP. Committee-of-the-Whole Agenda Items - 9.1 (Electric Easement): Approved unanimously. - 9.2 & 9.3 (Change Orders, Midtowne Parking Ramp): Approved unanimously. - 9.4, 9.5, 9.6 (Tobacco License Increases): All approved unanimously after discussion that applicants would likely receive Class B licenses once new ordinance is passed. - 9.7 (Loan Application for South Slope): Approved unanimously. - 9.8 (RAISE Grant Application for I-74 Riverfront Reimagined): Approved unanimously. Match of $650,000 is budgeted. City Council – Non-Consent Items - 19.1 (Tobacco Ordinance Amendments): Ordinance to create three license classes and impose temporary moratorium on new Class A licenses. Councilman Schmidt successfully moved an amendment to allow purchasers of existing businesses with Class A licenses to apply. Roll call: 8-0. Ordinance as amended approved 8-0. - 17.1 (Alley Reconstruction Contract with Collins Concrete Ltd., $316,758.11): Approved unanimously. - 20.1 (Generator Purchase for City Hall, $102,608): Approved unanimously. - 20.2 (RAISE Grant Application): Approved unanimously. - 20.3 (Grow Quad Cities Agreement): Tabled until next meeting due to missing last-minute revisions (Iowa statute and sports tourism language). Motion to table passed 8-0 (Councilman Messias recused). - 21.1 (Sign and Zoning Code Amendments): Advanced to second reading 7-0. - 21.2 (South Slope Borrowing Ordinance): Advanced to second reading 7-0. Key Outcomes - Bill Atkins sworn in as City Attorney. - Board appointments (Gomez, Gning, Zmuda-Swanson) approved. - All tobacco license increases approved; comprehensive tobacco ordinance amended with purchaser exception. - South Slope loan authorization resolution approved; borrowing ordinance advanced. - RAISE grant application authorized. - Grow Quad Cities agreement tabled to next meeting. - Alley reconstruction contract and generator purchase approved. - Both housing reports to be finalized for public comment; consolidated plan development ongoing. - Strategic plan dashboard noted; comprehensive plan RFP being finalized.

This combined meeting of the Moline Committee-of-the-Whole and City Council included oaths of office for three public safety personnel, three proclamations, public comment, and action on multiple resolutions and ordinances. The meeting featured significant debate on zoning text amendments, particularly regarding parking requirements, and the creation of a new tobacco license classification system. (Note: The printed agenda listed the meeting date as January 7, 2025, but the meeting occurred on January 8, 2025, per the provided transcript and instruction.) Oaths of Office - Police Officer Kyle Yeater – Regular commissioned appointment, effective December 11, 2024. Chief Gall noted Yeater was the 81st officer in a rebuild from a staffing low of 81 in April 2022, achieving the council-authorized strength of 84 officers. Yeater was the first out-of-state lateral hire under a modified lateral program. - Fire Lieutenant Brandon Tomlin – Promotion from engineer, effective January 1, 2025. Tomlin joined the Moline Fire Department in 2008. - Deputy Chief of EMS Jerry Sottos – Promotion from training officer, effective January 13, 2025. Sottos has nearly 30 years of service and holds a bachelor’s degree in fire administration. Board Appointments - Four reappointments to the Special Service Area 5 Board for two-year terms expiring January 1, 2027: Silas Inskeep, John Miller, Diana Haubenstricker, and Mike Wennekamp. Appointments were approved without objection. Proclamations - January 2025 as Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month – Presented by Maggie Tinsman (Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking and Braking Traffik). The proclamation encouraged community awareness and reporting to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888). - January 9, 2025, as National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day – Read by the Mayor. Noted that 139 officers died in the line of duty in 2024, a 7% decrease from the prior year. Public Comments & Testimony - Joyce (senior resident) – Addressed the Council, requesting that seniors at the Moline Activity Center be allowed to park in the adjacent Bethany/Parks and Recreation Department lot for 45 minutes on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday exercise class mornings (9:30–10:15 a.m.) without warnings or tickets. She described the challenges faced by elderly participants, including those with mobility issues, and noted the lot is often empty. Council did not respond directly but referred the issue to staff. Discussion Items 9.1 – Bee City USA Affiliate Designation – Presented by Kelly Notchi (Moline Pollinator Preservation Committee) and supported by committee members Don Temple and Dick Potter. The resolution designates Moline as a Bee City USA affiliate, a program of the Xerces Society focused on native pollinator conservation. Requirements include an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan (already adopted by the city), signage, and annual renewal. The application fee of $300 has been pledged by the city. The committee will manage the initiative with volunteer fundraising. Council expressed support and noted opportunities for education with schools and neighborhood groups. Motion to approve passed unanimously. 9.2 – Economic Development Partnership with Grow Quad Cities – Staff presented a resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement with Grow Quad Cities, a new economic development initiative spun off from the Quad Cities Chamber. The city’s per-capita contribution is $1.69 per capita (approximately $72,000 in year one), increasing by $0.20 per capita in subsequent years. Alderperson Schmidt expressed concern that the services may be unchanged from the Chamber’s prior work and asked for clarification on whether the total city allocation remains the same. Staff confirmed the existing allocation is now split between two entities, and the agreement includes a 120-day exit clause. Motion to approve passed unanimously. 9.3 – Text Amendments to Sign and Zoning Codes (Annual Review) – Staff (likely from Community and Economic Development) provided an overview of dozens of corrections and clarifications, including: - Regulating bright window lights (targeting vape shops). - Extending banner display limits from 60 to 180 days. - Reducing recreational vehicle setback requirements from 30 feet to 5 feet from rear alley. - Changing “and” to “or” on non-conforming lot regulations to allow development meeting either minimum width or area. - Requiring six-foot screening around permanent dumpsters. - Reducing residential parking minimums from three to two spaces per unit (approved via amendment). - Reducing office/retail parking from 1/300 sq. ft. to 1/450 sq. ft. - Adding architectural metal wall panels (up to 35% of front facade) and engineered wood to approved exterior materials for commercial areas. Extensive debate on parking minimums: - Alderperson Timian moved to eliminate all commercial parking minimums. After discussion, a substitute amendment by Alderperson Schmidt removed minimums for all commercial categories except lodging, entertainment indoor, entertainment outdoor, and adult entertainment. That amendment passed 4-3. The full ordinance, as amended, then passed unanimously. - Staff noted the Planning Commission had not unanimously recommended the zero-parking approach; some members preferred further study. Informational – January 2025 Status Report – City Administrator Bob Vitas’s report covered December activities, including completion of two bike path sections, street reconstructions on 38th and 48th Streets, the library gardens (open house planned for spring), and a new traffic signal at 32nd and 41st Street by the library. The quarter-end report will be presented at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Oaths of office administered to three officers. - Proclamations issued for Human Trafficking Prevention Month and Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. - Resolution 9.1 (Bee City USA) – Approved unanimously. - Resolution 9.2 (Grow Quad Cities) – Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 9.3 (Zoning/Sign Amendments) – Approved as amended, with modified parking minimums (see above). - Consent Agenda (minutes, appointments, three second-reading ordinances, seven resolutions) – Approved via omnibus vote. - Non-Consent Resolutions: - 19.1 – Purchase of one 2025 garbage truck for $294,800 (Elliott Equipment Co.) – Approved unanimously. - 19.2 – Five-year contract for web-based fleet management software (Faster Asset Solutions) – Approved unanimously. - First Reading Ordinances (advanced to second reading): - 20.1 – Childcare obligation exemption for council meeting attendance – Approved. - 20.2 – Traffic adjustments (remove three-way stop, add all-way stop at 53rd & 5th Ave south branch) – Approved. - 20.3 – Tobacco dealer license classification (Class A, B, C) with a moratorium on new Class A licenses. After debate, an amendment was added to grandfather any currently legally operating businesses that would need a new Class C license, with a 90-day application window. The ordinance as amended passed unanimously on first reading. - Miscellaneous: The Mayor announced the State of the City address tentatively scheduled for Monday, February 3, 2025, in the morning. Council members acknowledged the passing of former President Jimmy Carter and shared community engagement activities. - Meeting adjourned without executive session.

The Moline Committee-of-the-Whole met on December 30, 2024, according to the provided metadata, although the attached agenda is dated December 10, 2024. The meeting covered a proposed demolition-review ordinance for buildings 50 years or older, parking ramp assessments and maintenance funding, and a downtown parking management plan. Public comment focused on a proposed Gaza ceasefire resolution. Public Comments & Testimony - Anthony Preeds, a member of the Quad Cities Democratic Socialists of America, expressed support for a City Council resolution calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and an arms embargo on Israel. He cited more than 44,000 deaths in Gaza since October 7, 2023, and said a June poll found 51% of Americans support a complete arms embargo. He also noted that labor unions, including the UAW and air traffic controllers, have called for a ceasefire and arms embargo. - Rachel, a concerned community member, expressed support for the ceasefire resolution drafted by the Quad Cities Democratic Socialists of America and said she was taking a stand against genocide, oppression, and apathy. She stated that taxes from the city had contributed over $600,000 annually to arms for Israel and urged an immediate permanent ceasefire and arms embargo. - Ajini, a Quad Cities resident, supported a ceasefire resolution and cited estimates of 45,000 to 186,000 deaths in Gaza, including secondary-cause estimates, and said at least 902 entire family lines had been wiped out. She urged the Council to join other communities, including Iowa City, Havana, and Chicago, that have passed ceasefire resolutions. - Amen, a Muslim Palestinian American who lived in the West Bank, described firsthand experiences and called the situation a genocide. He cited Jewish Voice for Peace and Bernie Sanders and said the Council should uphold American values by not allowing people to be killed without consequence. - After public comment, one council member stated that the city generally does not enact proclamations or non-binding resolutions on issues outside its own jurisdiction and that constituent comments on federal issues are better directed to federal representatives. Discussion: Chapter 8 "Demolition of Principal Structures 50 Years or Older" - Chris Mathias, Director of Community and Economic Development, introduced a proposed Chapter 8 change that would allow demolition permits for principal structures 50 years or older to be reviewed and potentially delayed. The proposed process included a five-business-day initial review, a 30-day hold, and a possible 60-day extension, for up to roughly 90 days total. Emergency public-safety demolitions and economic hardship exemptions requested from the City Council were included. - Mathias said the purpose is to research a building's historical significance, document it, and salvage historic architectural pieces. He stated staff would retain final decision authority, but he wanted the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) as a partner because staff could not do the work alone. - HPC members Barb Sandberg and Chairman Dick Potter spoke in favor of the ordinance but opposed the staff-controlled version. They said the HPC's original recommendation gave the commission the review role, and the commission should at least be a formal part of the process. Potter said the HPC was unanimous in not favoring the staff version as written. - Several council members said the 90-day or 97-day total hold was too long. Alderperson Schmidt proposed a maximum total of 50 days and urged a specific process for HPC involvement so it would not depend on current staff or commission members. - Council discussion compared a code ordinance to a standalone policy. Staff agreed to prepare a policy version for comparison, but no final policy/ordinance decision was made. Discussion: Parking Ramp Assessments for Centre Station, Heritage Place, and Midtowne - David Dryer introduced the parking ramp assessment prepared by Shive Hattery. Tony Altenhofen of Shive Hattery presented findings from a roughly 170-page report covering structural, lighting, and roofing conditions, including chloride testing and post-tension tendon checks. - Centre Station (approximately 321 spaces, built in 1996) is in fair structural condition, but high chloride contamination on levels 2 and 3 supports applying a waterproofing membrane within five years. Heritage Place (approximately 306 spaces, 34 years old) is generally in good condition but needs sealant repairs, coatings, and a waterproofing membrane. Midtowne (approximately 434 spaces, 19 years old) is in good condition; post-tension tendons showed no corrosion, and it needs a sealer rather than a membrane. - Other findings included concrete cracking and spalling, expansion joint repairs, lighting/LED upgrades, and EPDM roofing expected to need replacement in five to ten years. A broken curved-glass skywalk panel at Midtowne is planned for replacement in the 2025 project. - Altenhofen estimated that completing the identified work would cost about $5 million to $6 million over the next seven to eight years. Replacing one ramp would cost an estimated $16 million to $24 million, while regular maintenance of roughly $200,000 to $250,000 per facility per year could defer replacement. He recommended a capital improvement plan for ramp maintenance. - Council members asked about ramp usage data, cost-sharing with partners such as MetroLINK, John Deere, and the arena, tariff effects on epoxies, membrane lifespan (roughly five to twelve years depending on traffic), and possible solar installations. Staff said there is no automated daily occupancy data and that tenant/agreement language would need review. Discussion: Parking Management Plan - David Dryer presented an overview describing roughly 45 acres of parking across downtown, 19 surface lots with approximately 1,290 spaces, and three city parking ramps with about 1,061 spaces. The average ramp age is about 27 years. - He described inconsistent policies, expired leases, varying rates, equity concerns, and the lack of a comprehensive management plan. He stated 2024 parking revenue was approximately $323,560.90 year-to-date, including an $87,000 one-time payment from the arena for pandemic-era obligations, while garage expenditures were about $244,000. That revenue is not enough to fund the ramp repairs. - The Midtowne ramp received about $332,000 in 2024 work, including expansion joint repairs, entrance islands, park/control equipment, the Shive Hattery assessment, and wayfinding signs. Approximately $301,485 in repairs is planned for 2025. - Council discussion supported hiring a parking consultant, comparing peer cities, and public engagement. Staff estimated a consultant study would take six months to a year and would not be inexpensive. Council members also discussed right-sizing or selling some surface lots and not waiting for a consultant if near-term parking actions are needed. Miscellaneous Business - The Council discussed snow-alley clearing. Staff said alleys are not routinely plowed, but after significant snowfalls the city may respond to service calls where residents cannot get out, using smaller trucks. One council member noted some residents have paid privately for alley plowing for 15 years and asked whether any new city alley plowing would be regular or only for large snow events. - Staff agreed to share previously requested water bill and parking plan enforcement documentation with all council members. Key Outcomes - No substantive motions or binding votes were taken; this was a committee-of-the-whole discussion. - For the demolition ordinance, the Council informally signaled a 50-day maximum total hold and requested a policy draft with a defined HPC/staff partnership. The final ordinance/policy mechanism remains open. - For parking ramps, staff will continue with the Shive Hattery recommendations, including a 2025 repair project, and will consider a capital improvement plan for ramp maintenance. - For parking management, Council expressed general support for proceeding with a consultant-based parking management plan and public engagement, but no contract or formal action was approved. - The Council took no action on the Gaza ceasefire resolution, and a council member said non-binding resolutions on external/federal matters are not the city's usual practice.