Public Meetings - Quincy, Illinois

The Quincy City Council met on Monday, April 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a public hearing on the tentative annual budget for FY2026-27, a special recognition ceremony, presentations on capital projects, extensive public comments concerning the public library budget, and votes on several land-use permits and city resolutions. The most contentious item was a proposal to eliminate a $180,000 city subsidy for the Quincy Public Library, which ultimately failed on an 6-8 vote. Public Hearing Mayor opened the public hearing for written and oral comments on the City's tentative annual budget from May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2027. No one from the public spoke during the hearing. Presentations - Special Recognition Fire Department personnel were recognized for commendable actions in responding to a residential fire. A certificate of appreciation was presented. Capital Projects Presentation City Engineer Steve Bange presented an overview of planned capital projects for the upcoming fiscal year, including: - Over $25 million in proposed infrastructure improvements across multiple wards. - Major projects: North 1st Street and Chestnut/Maple ($3.2 million), Hunter Street ($3.9 million), and a Maine Street reconstruction project ($1.7 million). - Funding sources include motor fuel tax, MFT funds, and neighborhood enhancement funds. - Projects are prioritized based on pavement condition, underground infrastructure needs, and alderman input. Public Comments & Testimony Multiple residents spoke in strong support of maintaining city funding for the Quincy Public Library. Speakers highlighted the library's role as a community hub for education, technology access, remote work, and family programs. They urged the Council not to cut the $180,000 subsidy, arguing the library provides essential services to all demographics. Several speakers noted the library serves as an economic engine and a key quality-of-life asset. One speaker mentioned the library's importance for local history and genealogy research. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from March 30, 2026. - Monthly reports accepted. - Approval of a Special Use Permit for a three-megawatt community solar project at 3909 Wisman Lane (tabled to next meeting). - Acceptance of withdrawal of Special Use Permit for 4314 Harrison Street. - Acceptance of withdrawal of Special Permit for Planned Development at 1130 South 6th Street. - Mayor's appointments: Gary Meacher to Quincy Public Library Board (until 7/1/27); reappointment of Ald. Dave Bauer to Quincy/Adams County Joint ETSB (5/1/2026 to 4/30/2029). - Resolutions: - 12a: Reciprocal Agreement with Illinois Department of Revenue. - 12b: Participation in National Opioid Settlements. - 12c: Bid approval to Area Distributors for janitorial supplies ($25,915.02). - 12d: Invoice approval to LCL Farms for lime sludge removal ($110,925.56). - 12e: Low bids for water treatment chemicals. All consent items passed unanimously. Reports of Plan Commission - Regular Agenda - 13a (Small engine repair shop at 6201 Hickory Grove North): Approved with conditions: non-transferable permit, all work inside garage, hours Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, no outdoor storage, repeated complaints may trigger review. Zoned RU1. - 13b (Commercial parking lot expansion at 3623 State Street): Approved for expansion of commercial parking on R1C-zoned property. Ward 4. Library Funding Discussion & Vote A major discussion centered on a motion to eliminate the $180,000 city subsidy from the library's budget line item. Arguments in favor: - The library receives the state-mandated 0.15 property tax levy; the subsidy is extra. - Reducing the subsidy would free funds for police, fire, and pension obligations (pension increases of $500,000 annually). - The library could become its own taxing district, giving taxpayers clear visibility of library costs. - The library has reserves that could absorb the cut. Arguments against: - The library provides critical community services and economic development value. - The subsidy is only a small fraction of the city's $60 million budget. - Cutting the subsidy sends a negative message about the city's commitment to education and quality of life. - The library board and staff have already made cuts and are working toward fiscal responsibility; more time is needed. - The current funding model (subsidy + levy) allows city oversight; a separate taxing district could lead to higher property taxes. Vote on motion to eliminate $180,000 library subsidy: 6 in favor, 8 against. Motion failed. The subsidy line item remains in the budget. Ordinances - 14a (Second Reading): Amending off-street parking requirements (allow parking at 1304 South 17th St). Passed. - 14b (Second Reading): Amending water and sewer rates and charges. Passed. - 14c (Second Reading): Amending bicycle regulations to regulate low-speed electric scooters, bicycles, and gas bicycles on public sidewalks. Passed. - 14d (First Reading): Introducing the Annual Operating Budget for FY ending April 30, 2027. No action taken; will return for second reading. Mayor's Comments & New Business - Mayor announced a town hall meeting for Wards 1 and 2 on April 13, 2026, with city department heads present. - Mayor encouraged continued budget discussions throughout the year. - Discussion on the library board potentially voting to become a separate taxing district; such a vote would come to the City Council for approval within 50 days. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at an unspecified time.

Public Hearing on Tentative Budget The council held a public hearing to receive comments on the City's tentative annual budget for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2027. Public testimony centered on the proposed $180,000 reduction in the city's subsidy to the Quincy Public Library. Presentations City Engineer Steve Bange presented the capital projects plan for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting over $25 million in planned infrastructure work. Key projects include: - North 14th Street reconstruction (secondary focus): $700,000 - York Street from 18th to 22nd: $1.45 million - 10th Street from State to 824th to 27th: $1.4 million - Kentucky Street from 16th to 18th: $1.4 million - East V Subdivision (Twitchell Avenue, Railroad, M Ring, Storm Drive): $250,000 - No Street from South 14th to SAR 16: $1.2 million - Allen's Street from South 5th to South: $1.7 million - North First Street and cost central maple: $3.2 million - Hunter Street Project (North Eight to North Bank): $3.9 million (90% design complete) - Main Quick Project (street screw, relocated entrances): $1.7 million - Participation in Broadway project: $300,000 (Cost of the eighth) and $275,000 (38 to 64) - Traffic signal upgrade: $220,000 - Peak Street grid rehab: $1.5 million - Neighborhood enhancement fund: community project - Infrastructure maintenance: $500,000 Funding sources include motor fuel tax ($1.8 million/year), 35 funds, and other grants. Total estimated project cost is approximately $25 million, with about $4.1 million from bond money. Consent Calendar The council approved the following routine items unanimously: - Approval of minutes from March 30, 2026 - Monthly reports - Mayor's appointments: Gary Meacher to the Quincy Public Library Board (replacing Dean LaVelle, term effective until July 1, 2027) and reappointment of Ald. Dave Bauer to the Quincy/Adams County Joint ETSB (May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2029) - Resolution 12a: Reciprocal agreement on exchange of information with the Illinois Department of Revenue - Resolution 12b: Participation in the National Opioid Settlements - Resolution 12c: Bid award to Area Distributors for janitorial supplies (one-year agreement, $25,915.02 with 30% discount) - Resolution 12d: Approval of $110,925.56 invoice to LCL Farms, Inc. for removal, hauling, and land application of treated lime sludge - Resolution 12e: Low bids for water treatment chemicals from various companies - Plan Commission recommendations: - 10a: Special Use Permit for a three-megawatt community solar project at 3909 Wisman Lane (zoned M3, outside city limits near Ward 3) – TABLED for one week - 10b: Withdrawal of Special Use Permit for 4314 Harrison Street (zoned RU1) – accepted - 10c: Withdrawal of Special Permit for Planned Development for 1130 South 6th Street (zoned R2) – accepted - 13a: Special Permit for Planned Development for small engine repair shop at 6201 Hickory Grove North (zoned RU1) – APPROVED with conditions (non-transferrable, all work inside garage, hours Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, no outdoor storage, complaints may trigger review) - 13b: Special Use Permit for expansion of commercial parking lot at 3623 State Street (zoned R1C, Ward 4) – APPROVED Ordinances (Second/First Readings) - Second reading: Ordinance amending off-street parking requirements for 1304 South 17th St (Ward 6) - Second reading: Ordinance amending water and sewer rates and charges (Chapters 51 & 52) - Second reading: Ordinance regulating low-speed electric scooters, low-speed electric bicycles, and low-speed gas bicycles on public sidewalks (Chapter 76) - First reading: Ordinance adopting the Annual Operating Budget for FY ending April 30, 2027 Public Comments & Testimony Several residents spoke in support of maintaining the city's subsidy to the Quincy Public Library. Key points: - The library serves as a vital resource for learning, technology access, and community programs. - Cutting the subsidy would harm educational opportunities and send a negative message about the city's values. - The library has already made budget reductions and is working toward fiscal responsibility. - Many speakers urged the council to continue the subsidy and explore collaborative solutions. One speaker also expressed concerns about a planned development near a residential neighborhood, citing noise and traffic. Discussion Items: Library Funding Debate The council discussed a proposal to remove the $180,000 general fund subsidy to the Quincy Public Library from the FY2026-2027 budget. Arguments for removal: - The city must prioritize core services (police, fire, pensions) and keep property taxes low. - The library is not a city department; it has its own board and can become a tax district. - The city already provides the library with the required 0.15 property tax levy; additional subsidies are voluntary. - $180,000 could be redirected to other city needs. Arguments against removal: - The library is an economic driver and important for community development. - The council should work with the library board to achieve savings rather than cutting outright. - The library has already made cuts and needs more time to become self-sufficient. - Removing the subsidy could lead to reduced hours or services. Aldermen noted that the library board has the option to become a separate tax district, which would ultimately be decided by voters. Some expressed interest in giving the library a

The Quincy City Council convened on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a moment of silence for two community members, a proclamation, public comments, approval of consent agenda items, a resolution for strategic communication services, and first presentations of several ordinances. Mayor's comments provided updates on utility assistance, library funding, and upcoming events. Proclamation - Mayor presented a proclamation recognizing meteorologist Mike (last name unclear) for his 45-year career in broadcasting, including service at WCEM, and for his contributions to the community. He received a standing ovation. Public Comments & Testimony - Cody (resident, member of the Quincy Housing Association and Strategic Housing Technical Committee): Spoke in opposition to state legislation that would impose uniform zoning guidelines on communities, arguing such decisions should remain local. He also noted the need for affordable housing in Quincy, stating that the city has a housing shortage and that some proposals require careful consideration. - Andrew Michael (representing MAPHO family?): Opposed a special permit request to expand commercial parking in a residential area, referencing a 1971 ordinance that maintained a buffer between residential and commercial zones. He urged the council to consider the impact on residents and asked for the permit to be denied. - Tony Albert: Discussed the history of the 1971 agreement and public input, expressing opposition to the parking expansion. He emphasized the need to preserve residential character and called for the council to respect the original ordinance. Consent Calendar - 7a: Approved a proposal from Perfection Plus, Inc. of Hopkins, MN, for custodial services at City Hall, Quincy Police Department, Central Services, Quincy Transit Lines, Planning and Development, and Amtrak locations. The two-year contract (May 4, 2026 – May 3, 2028) is valued at $231,886, with an option to renew for one year. - 7b: Approved a resolution in support of a municipal housing authority, affirming local control over housing decisions. Discussion Items - Resolution 8a – Strategic Communication Services: Authorized a professional agreement and monthly stipends to Kristin Dreasler-Niemann from May 2026 through April 2027 for $82,000. Council members discussed the value of the services and voted to approve. - First Presentation – Ordinance 9c (Off-Street Parking): Amending Title XV (Land Usage) to allow off-street parking at 1304 South 17th Street. - First Presentation – Ordinance 9d (Water and Sewer Rates): Amending Chapters 51 and 52 to update water and sewer rates and charges. - First Presentation – Ordinance 9e (Low-Speed Electric Scooters, Bicycles, and Gas Bicycles): Amending Title VII (Traffic Code) to regulate operation on public sidewalks. The ordinance prohibits e-scooters from sidewalks, allows e-bikes and gas bikes on roadways, sets equipment and age requirements, and aligns with state law. Violations are subject to existing traffic penalties. Mayor's Comments - Reminded residents of utility payment assistance programs: customers can set up payment plans by April 1 (pay 10% of balance) or after April 1 (pay 25% down). - Noted that Adams County offers a homestead exemption for property owners aged 65+; contact the Supervisor of Assessments. - Acknowledged resident concerns about library funding and assured continued dialogue. - Announced the Memorial Bridge will reopen for work in mid-April, with a bridge walk scheduled for Saturday, May 9 (registration at PMPFoundation.org). - Reminded of the Easter egg hunt on Wednesday, April 1 at Holiday Inn, and that City Hall will be closed on Good Friday, April 3. Key Outcomes - Approved Consent Agenda (items 7a and 7b) by unanimous vote. - Approved Resolution 8a (strategic communication services) with a vote of 6-0-1? (transcript unclear but passed). - First presentations of ordinances 9c, 9d, and 9e were received and will be brought back for second reading and adoption. - Adjourned at approximately 8:30 PM (time inferred from transcript).

The Quincy City Council met on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The agenda included presentations from Quincy Together and on historic preservation tax credits, a presentation on the FYE 2027 General Fund Expenditure Budget, consideration of consent agenda items, regular agenda items including a traffic signal contract and several ordinances, and announcements. Presentations - Quincy Together – Ryan Sparks and Martin McCarthy presented an update on a community-driven initiative involving approximately 15 residents working to gather input on school-related priorities. The presentation outlined a public engagement process designed to identify challenges and priorities, with the goal of making a recommendation to the board. They encouraged community members to participate in an upcoming meeting. - Historic Preservation Tax Credits – A representative (not identified on the agenda) presented on state and federal historic rehabilitation tax credits available in Quincy's redevelopment zone. The speaker noted that the state offers a 25% tax credit and the federal government a 20% credit, and that Quincy's redevelopment zone contains three historic districts covering about 90% of the area. The presentation explained how tax credit syndication works, noting that federal credits trade at approximately 95 cents on the dollar and state credits at about 85 cents, and that tax abatements apply only to new value, not existing taxes. Consent Calendar - Approved the application from the Quincy Area Convention and Visitors Bureau for a revocable permit to display banners across 5th & Maine Streets between May 4 and November 23, 2026, with installation assistance from Central Services and no city liability for damage. - Approved the revocable encroachment request from Jonathon Schemerhorn for a sign at 835 Maine Street, subject to a minimum 10-foot sidewalk clearance, structural soundness, proper lighting, and building permits. - Granted the referral for a streetlight near 1519 and 1523 Oak Street and directed that Ameren Illinois be notified. - Approved renewal of the Routematch scheduling software maintenance agreement at a cost of $27,665.62. - Approved a $12,000 proposal from Apex Land Survey for topographic surveying on North 12th Street between Chestnut and Locust Streets. - Approved a $22,500 proposal from Countryside Lawn and Landscape for lawn maintenance on city properties and rights-of-way. Public Comments No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - General Fund Expenditure Budget FYE 2027 – City staff presented a balanced General Fund budget totaling $60.7 million. The budget reflects a 7% increase over the prior year (about $4 million), with approximately $2.8 million in available funds designated for one-time expenses rather than ongoing costs. It adds 2.5 full-time equivalent positions, increases vehicle replacement funding by 24%, and includes pass-through revenues of $2.2 million to the library and $12,000 to the SSA. A public hearing will be scheduled. - Traffic Signal Vehicle Detection Systems – The council considered a bid from Brown Electric of Quincy for replacement of traffic signal vehicle detection systems in the amount of $312,898.79. Staff explained the system detects vehicles using sensors and cables. The bid was approved. - Ordinance Amending Taxicab and Limousine Regulations – This second-reading ordinance (referred to as Ordinance 3231) was discussed. The council considered an amendment related to the complaint investigation process. A motion to amend was made, and the ordinance was adopted by voice vote. - Ordinance Vacating Undeveloped Alley – The agenda included a second presentation on vacating a 2,900-square-foot portion of an east/west alley bounded by North 3rd, North 4th, Cherry, and Cedar Streets. The transcript does not capture discussion or action on this item. - Ordinance Amending Amusements Regulations – The first presentation was held for an ordinance amending Title XI, Chapter 112 (amusements) regarding live entertainment/public gatherings. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda. - Approved the $312,898.79 bid from Brown Electric for traffic signal detection. - Adopted the taxicab/limousine ordinance (3231) by voice vote after an amendment. - The alley vacation ordinance was presented as a second reading; further action, if any, was not captured in the transcript. - The first-reading amusements ordinance will return for a second presentation. - Scheduled a public hearing for the FYE 2027 budget.

The Quincy City Council met on March 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a presentation from Adams Fiber awarding Quincy as a Smart Rural Community, a housing study update, public comment, approval of the consent agenda, and first readings of ordinances. Consent Calendar - Approved items included resolutions authorizing Quincy Transit Lines to apply for the Downstate Operating Assistance Grant (11a), execution of the Section 5311 Grant agreement (11b), acceptance of the Special Warranty (11c), purchase of core switches from SHI International Corp. for $158,858.83 (11d), low bid from Sterling Water Technologies for monosodium phosphate (11e), and a resolution to inform DCEO of Quincy’s intent to establish a Star Bond District (11f). Also approved a special event application from Horizons Soup Kitchen for the Race Against Hunger 5K on April 11, 2026 (8a). Public Comments & Testimony - One member of the public spoke about accountability, public records, and what they believed were fees and issues with transparency in city operations. They referenced past incidents and called for public oversight. Discussion Items - Housing Study and Comprehensive Plan Update: A subcommittee presented recommendations from the housing study. They recommended that the city budget for a comprehensive plan update including a neighborhood land use plan, estimated at $250,000. The current zoning code is 36 years old. Four working groups (zoning, data and info, PL, etc.) are studying housing opportunities, particularly multi-family housing. The subcommittee emphasized community engagement and respect for neighborhoods. Only three percent of land within a mile and a half of the city center is zoned for multi-family, and that is mostly used. The recommendation for a comprehensive plan redo is supported by partners including BRADOS. - First Presentation of Ordinance Amending Taxicabs and Limousines (12c): First reading of an ordinance to amend Title XI, Chapter 125 of the Municipal Code. - First Presentation of Ordinance Vacating Alley (12d): First reading of an ordinance to vacate an undeveloped alley in Ward 1. - FOIA Software Update: The FOIA officer announced a new FOIA software program to help manage the increasing volume of requests. So far in 2026, 143 requests have been received, up from 47 previously. The cost is below the threshold requiring council approval. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda items were approved. - First presentations were made for ordinances 12a (parking schedule amendment), 12b (school no parking zones), 12c (taxicabs and limousines), and 12d (alley vacation). No final votes were taken. - The recommendation for a comprehensive plan update was presented and discussed; further council action is pending. - The council received information on the new FOIA software program. The meeting also included a presentation from Adams Fiber, prayer, pledge of allegiance, roll call, and approval of the March 9, 2026, minutes.

On March 9, 2026, the Quincy City Council convened at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a fire department swearing-in, a presentation on FYE 2027 revenue projections, approval of numerous consent items and resolutions, and concluded with a closed executive session. Public comment was taken, and several routine and significant actions were approved. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of March 2, 2026 (City Council) and February 9, 2026 (Town Business). - Approved the report of the Quincy Township Supervisor for General Assistance for February 2026 (total expenditures of approximately $152,030.20, as referenced in the transcript). - Approved the report of the Town Auditing Committee for March 2026. - Referred a special permit request from Kaibeh Bessay for a Planned Development (restaurant and laundromat at 1130 South Sixth Street) to the Plan Commission (Item 10a). - Approved the vacation of approximately 4,150 square feet of a public alley at 1123 North 4th Street (Item 11a). - Approved the following resolutions (Items 14a–14j): - Invoice from Quincy University for housing/meals for WIU practicum students ($37,200). - Year 2 subscription fee for Peak Agenda Management and GovMeetings Live Cast ($21,235.19). - Proposal from CivicPlus for DocAccess Website Remediation ($10,893.00). - Invoice from Hawkins, Inc. for polymer ($20,775.00). - Quote from Woody's Municipal Supply for a regenerative air sweeper ($389,289.00). - Quote from Core and Main for watermain and pipe fittings ($47,781.00). - Quote from Midwest Meter for new water meters ($483,525.00). - Low bid from Brenntag Mid-South for monosodium phosphate ($2,196.35 per ton). - Proposal from Hach Company for annual maintenance of water treatment equipment ($22,002.00). - Bid from Hood Construction for Jackson Street Reconstruction ($1,887,763.00). - Approved the consent agenda as a block, with no separate discussion noted for individual items. Public Comments & Testimony - One member of the public addressed the council during the public comment period. The transcript is garbled, and the speaker's name, topic, and position cannot be reliably extracted. The council did not respond substantively. Discussion Items - FYE 2027 Revenue Projections: The city's financial officer presented an overview of projected revenues for fiscal year ending 2027. Major sources discussed include property tax (limited by the 25-cent levy cap), sales tax, income tax, and state-shared revenues (e.g., PTOP). A net increase of approximately $448,000 in the general fund was projected, with cautious assumptions due to economic uncertainties (e.g., falling housing prices, inflation). The presentation emphasized that property tax covers only about 55% of the city's general fund needs, with state-shared revenues filling the gap. The council received the presentation without formal action; it was informational. - Essential Air Service – Nashville Route (Resolution 15a): The Airport Director recommended that the council authorize Corporate Flight Management (Contour Airlines) to request U.S. DOT permission to add Nashville, TN as a second destination under the Essential Air Service contract. The Mayor would also send a letter of community support. After discussion, the resolution passed (viva voce). - Ground Lease for 400 Maine Street (Resolution 15b): The Director of Operations recommended approval of a ground lease proposal from Gem City Concert Series, LLC, and authorization for the Mayor to negotiate and enter into the lease consistent with the RFP conditions. The resolution passed (viva voce). - Ordinance 16a – Deleting Group Health Plan Section: An ordinance amending Chapter 42 to delete Section 42.044(B) (Group Health and Hospitalization Plan) was adopted after a brief presentation and discussion. Passed (viva voce). - Ordinance 16b (First Presentation) – Parking on 18th Street: An ordinance to remove “No Parking” on the west side of 18th Street between College and a point 150 feet south was introduced. No vote was taken; it is a first presentation. - Ordinance 16c (First Presentation) – School No Parking Zones: An ordinance to amend school no parking zones was introduced. No vote was taken; it is a first presentation. - Executive Session: A motion was made and approved to enter closed session under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1) (personnel), (2) (collective bargaining), and (11) (pending litigation). The council stated no action would be taken in executive session. Key Outcomes - Approved – Fire Department Swearing-In: Ziven Crist was sworn into the Quincy Fire Department (presentation at meeting start). - Approved – Consent Agenda: All items in the consent calendar were approved by voice vote or general consent. - Approved – Resolution 15a: Authorized Contour Airlines to pursue Nashville as a second EAS destination, with Mayor's support letter. - Approved – Resolution 15b: Approved ground lease with Gem City Concert Series, LLC for 400 Maine Street. - Adopted – Ordinance 16a: Deleted Section 42.044(B) regarding group health plan. - Introduced – Ordinance 16b and 16c: First presentations, to be considered at a future meeting. - Executive Session: The meeting moved to closed session at approximately 8:30 PM (estimated); adjournment following executive session was approved. Mayor's Announcements - The public was invited to mobile office hours at the PC How building on March 10, 2026 (11 AM–1 PM) for federal agency assistance. - A public meeting for Prairie Web subdivision residents was scheduled for March 10, 2026, at 6 PM at Dunman Elementary School. - The Mayor congratulated the Quincy University women's wrestling team on winning the 2026 MCWA national championship – the first national title in team history and only the second national championship in any women's sport at the university.

The Quincy City Council met on March 2, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers to consider a variety of items including consent agenda referrals, resolutions, funding for stadium lighting upgrades, and several ordinances. The meeting began with a prayer, pledge of allegiance, roll call, and approval of the minutes from February 23, 2026. Consent Calendar - 7a: Referred to Plan Commission a Special Use Permit for expansion of a commercial parking lot at 3623 State Street (Ward 4). - 7b: Referred to Plan Commission a Special Permit for a three-megawatt community solar project at 3909 Wisman Lane (Near Ward 3). - 7c: Referred to Plan Commission a Special Permit for a small engine repair shop at 6201 Hickory Grove North (Near Ward 3). - 7d: Referred to Plan Commission a Special Use Permit for self-storage units at 4314 Harrison Street (Near Ward 5). - Monthly reports of the City Clerk, Treasurer, Comptroller, Sign and Paint Division, Street Cleaning Department, Forestry Department (February 2026), and Recycling Division (January 2026) were accepted. - Quincy Metropolitan Exposition Auditorium & Office Building Authority 3rd Quarter Income and Expense Reports for 2025-2026 were received. - Resolution 10a: Approved the State of Illinois Rock Salt Contract/Joint Participation Agreement for 2026-2027. - Resolution 10b: Approved a one-year contract renewal with Alliance Industrial Corporation for recycling drop-off monitoring and hauling (March 1, 2026 – February 28, 2027). - Resolution 10c: Approved an invoice of $13,802.66 from SERVPRO for sewage damage repairs at 4742 Caleb. All consent items were approved without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative from the Quincy Doggy Paddlers (summer baseball team) spoke in support of the proposed lighting upgrade at QU Stadium. He explained that without lights, their Friday night games would draw about 60% of typical attendance, and that the team has approximately 5,000 total attendees. He emphasized that the upgrade would bring people to the city and benefit the community. He also noted that the new LED lights would be more energy-efficient and provide better visibility. Discussion Items - Regular Agenda 11a: Mayor and Finance Committee recommended approval of $25,000 from the City of Quincy Economic Growth Fund (generated by the 1% Food & Beverage tax) to help upgrade lights at QU Stadium for the 2026 Quincy Doggy Paddlers season. A council member asked about the number of days the lights would be used (response: many days a week) and the number of light poles (approximately eight). Another member clarified that the funds are from the Economic Growth Fund, not the general fund, and that the city can recoup some money through advertising. The item was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and resolutions (10a, 10b, 10c) were approved as presented. - Ordinances (Second Readings): - 12a: Adopted an ordinance granting a Special Use Permit for a Planned Development to operate an adult day care facility at 1220 Broadway Street (Ward 7). - 12b: Adopted an ordinance granting a Special Use Permit for a Planned Development to demolish two existing buildings at 2126 South 12th Street and construct two new buildings for a landscaping business (Near Ward 6). - 12c: Adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 42 of the Municipal Code by deleting Section 42.044(B) (Group Health and Hospitalization Plan). - 12d: Adopted an ordinance amending the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Budget (increasing General Fund transfers to Capital Projects Fund by $725,000, increasing State Grants and Police Safety Equipment by $21,600, increasing Airport Subsidy by $250,000, and decreasing Airport/IDOT grants by $250,000). - Ordinances (First Readings): - 12e: Presented an ordinance to remove 'No Parking' on the west side of 18th Street between College and 150 feet south (Ward 2). - 12f: Presented an ordinance to amend school no-parking zones. - Mayor's Comments: The mayor announced the budget schedule: committee reviews over the next three weeks, budget available to the public on March 30, and public hearings on April 6 and April 8. The council also received and filed the city’s annual audit. - The meeting adjourned after new business and final comments.

The Quincy City Council met on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included employee recognition, police officer swearing-in and promotion, discussion and approval of a housing authority police agreement, and the first reading of a zoning variation ordinance. Recognition and Ceremonies - 35-Year Service Recognition: Todd Duesterhaus of the Engineering Department was recognized for 35 years of service. Mayor praised his leadership and knowledge, particularly in construction and water systems. - Police Officer Swearing-In: Matthew Farha (Badge 110) and Tucker Kurfman (Badge 152) were sworn in as police officers. Farha previously served as a correctional officer for the Adams County Sheriff's Office. - Sergeant Promotion: Officer Zachary Bemis was promoted to Sergeant. Bemis has held multiple roles including bike patrol operator and crisis response team member, and was named Police Department Employee of the Month and Co-Employee of the Year in 2016. Discussion Items - Housing Authority Police Agreement (Item 10a): Chief of Police recommended approval of a new one-year agreement (January 1 to December 31, 2026) with the Quincy Housing Authority to assign one patrol officer for security and service. Housing Authority representatives highlighted the value of the program for building relationships and preventing problems in public housing. The Housing Authority pays 55% of the officer's salary and benefits. The agreement was approved by the Police Committee prior to the meeting. - Zoning Variation for 434 Gardner Expressway (Items 8a and 11a): The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval to waive two requirements in the D2 zoning district: the requirement that at least 30% of the first floor of new commercial construction be glass, and the prohibition of wood, asphalt, and fiberglass/asphalt shingles. This was the first presentation of the ordinance granting the variation. The council adopted the ordinance on first reading. Financial Report - The Finance Committee report noted a final expense of $716,462.33. No further details were discussed. Mayor's Comments and Adjournment - Mayor wished everyone a happy and safe New Year. The meeting adjourned without further business.

The Quincy City Council held a meeting on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The agenda included a presentation for Matthew Jennings' 25-year anniversary with the Quincy Fire Department, along with standard items such as prayer, pledge, public comment, finance committee report, and new business. The available transcript is largely garbled and unintelligible, making it difficult to extract reliable details. No minutes were provided. Public Comments & Testimony - No clear public comments were discernible from the transcript. The garbled text includes references to "Christmas Eve bowling" and a request for a "three light and a 16 feet high" pole, but these are not attributable to specific speakers or confirmed as public comments. Discussion Items - The transcript suggests discussion of holiday schedules (e.g., no service on Christmas Day or New Year's Day) and a possible request for a streetlight or sign. However, the content is too fragmented to determine the exact nature of the discussion or who spoke. - A speaker mentioned having "been sitting in this for eleven years" and following the paper for thirty years, but the context is unclear. - The 25-year anniversary presentation for Matthew Jennings is listed on the agenda, but the transcript does not contain any clear reference to this presentation. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or next steps could be reliably identified from the available transcript. The meeting likely proceeded according to the agenda, but no substantive outcomes can be confirmed. Note: The transcript provided is of extremely poor quality and appears to be a garbled or erroneous transcription of the meeting audio. The summary above is based on the limited intelligible content and the official agenda. Discrepancies between the agenda and the transcript are due to the transcript's unintelligibility.