Public Meetings - Quincy, Illinois

The Quincy City Council held a regular meeting on October 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included presentations, approval of minutes, public comment, consent agenda items, monthly reports, and several resolutions and ordinances. Key actions included approval of raffle permits, referral of a special permit for a landscaping company, approval of a revocable permit for an overhead sign, extension of a redevelopment agreement for 531 Hampshire Street, approval of a payment for polymer, and introduction of an ordinance to amend LEGUP grant provisions. Presentations - IPAA Award to Quincy Regional Airport: The council recognized the airport with an IPAA award. - Police Department Presentation: A "Civilian Letter of Appreciation" was presented to Ryder Dickson. - Fire Department Presentation: Fire Chief Steven Salrin presented the annual report. Statistics included: 8 events, 75 individuals contacted, 55 smoke detectors installed, 147 car safety seat installations, 665 business inspections, 155 fire inspections, 15 firework inspections, and 1262 out inspections. The department also discussed aging apparatus: engines 2 and 3 are 21 years old, engines 4 and 5 are 29 years old. Vehicle replacement options are being explored, with an estimated cost of $1.5–1.7 million. Consent Calendar - Approved raffle permits for the following organizations with bond requirements waived: Quincy University/Mart Heinen Club (October 10, 2025 – February 1, 2026), Quincy Freedom Fest (October 11, 2025 – January 31, 2026), and The Quincy Museum (October 11, 2025 – December 14, 2025). - Referred to the Quincy Plan Commission a request by Conner Emrick for a Special Permit for Planned Development to operate a landscaping company at 2126 South 12th Street (zoned R1A). - Approved a revocable permit for an overhead sign at 501 Hampshire Street, subject to conditions: sign no larger than 3 ft x 5 ft, at least 10 ft above sidewalk, structurally sound, properly lit, and proper permits obtained. Public Comments - The transcript indicates one public comment was made, but the content was not clearly discernible. Discussion Items - Redevelopment Agreement Extension for 531 Hampshire Street: The council discussed a one-year extension of the redevelopment agreement originally approved in 2021. The extension is needed as the project is 15–18 months into a two-year period. The new agreement (approved last year) replaced the $500,000 city grant with a 50-50 split of hotel/motel tax revenue (up to $350,000 over 10 years) and a 50-50 split of tax increment (up to $750,000 or until 2033). The council approved the one-year extension. - Resolution for Payment to Hawkins, Inc.: Approved payment of $20,775.00 for the purchase of polymer. - Approval of Lawn Mower Purchase: Approved the quote of $14,750 with trade-in of a 2004 Case backhoe ($10,850) for a net purchase price of $3,900 for a 60” Toro Z-Master lawn mower. - Ordinance Amending LEGUP Grants: Second presentation of an ordinance to reduce the number of available LEGUP grants from 4 to 2 and set the maximum amount to $10,000 (replacing the sliding scale). The ordinance was introduced. Key Outcomes - Approved raffle permits and waived bond requirements. - Referred the special permit for landscaping company to Plan Commission. - Approved revocable permit for overhead sign. - Approved one-year extension of redevelopment agreement for 531 Hampshire Street. - Approved payment of $20,775 to Hawkins, Inc. - Approved purchase of lawn mower for net $3,900. - Introduced ordinance to amend LEGUP grants (to be voted on later).

The Quincy City Council met on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and proclamations for Fire Prevention Week and the 100th anniversary of the Battle Assembly of God Church. The council approved the consent calendar, heard public comments, and discussed several resolutions and ordinances. The meeting concluded with new business announcements. Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously without being pulled for separate discussion: - Special Event Application (8a): Quincy Early Tin Dusters’ Fall Color Run on October 17–18, with street closures (Maine Street, Hamshire Street, and others) and parking restrictions from 4:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, October 18, and “o parking” signs on Friday, October 17. - Appointments: - Quincy Public Library Board: Jake Reed to replace Kelly Mays. - Aeronautics Committee: Greg Fletcher to replace Jake Reed. - Quincy, Adams County Task Force: Dan Brink (facilitator), Glen Ebbing, Jake Reed, Mike Adkins, plus three additional members from the County Board to be appointed. - Resolution 10a: Support for the Ilinois America250 Commission. - Resolution 10b: Low bid of $76,500 from Henson Robinson Company (Springfield, IL) for replacement of the roof awning at Quincy Regional Airport Terminal Building. - Resolution 10c: Allocation of $229,125.10 in capital funds for the previously approved change order for the Prairie Crossing Pavement and North 36th Street Sidewalk Project. - Resolution 10d: Approval of a grant from FEMA totaling $224,945.71 with a required 5% match of $11,247.29 for the future purchase of a fire safety trailer. - Resolution 10e: New list of dangerous and unsafe properties under the Fix or Flatten Program for 2025 (16 addresses across Wards 1, 2, 3, 7). Public Comments & Testimony - Opposition to Library Board Appointment: A citizen spoke against the appointment of Jake Reed to the Quincy Public Library Board, arguing that Reed has publicly opposed LGBTQ events and books and that his personal beliefs conflict with professional responsibilities as a library board member. The speaker referenced the American Library Association and stated that a book by June Boston on similar topics already exists in the library. - Museum Festival Street Closure Request: A representative of the Quincy County Museum spoke in support of a street closure request for the annual folk festival on Saturday, October 11, 2025 (the museum’s 60th anniversary). The speaker described the festival as family-friendly and a fundraiser that keeps museum education free. (Note: This request was not listed as a separate agenda item; it was raised during public comment.) Discussion Items - Mayor’s Remarks on Library Board Appointment: The mayor explained that he intentionally appoints individuals with diverse viewpoints to boards to ensure all community voices are represented. He stated that Jake Reed committed to attending meetings and engaging in civil discourse, and he encouraged public participation through comment periods. - Fix or Flatten Program (Resolution 10e): A council member expressed support for the new property list, noting that the city has successfully managed past programs. The member cautioned that oversight is necessary to prevent the program from expanding out of control and stated, “I think this is needed … our eyes will be open.” The council then voted to approve the resolution. - Ordinance 11b – First Reading: The council heard the first presentation of an ordinance amending the LEGUP grant program. The proposal reduces the number of available grants from four to two and sets a maximum grant amount of $10,000, replacing the previous sliding scale. No vote was taken; this was an introductory reading. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved unanimously. - Resolution 10e (Fix or Flatten Program) was approved. - Ordinance 11a (special use permit for a maternity house at 1603 Center Avenue) was listed for adoption on the agenda; no discussion was captured in the transcript. - The first reading of Ordinance 11b (LEGUP grant changes) was completed; further action will be taken at a future meeting. Other Agenda Items - Proclamations: Fire Prevention Week (October 2–11) and the 100th anniversary of the Battle Assembly of God Church (celebration on Sunday, October5) were formally recognized. - New Business: Announcements included Fire Safety Month events (press conference on Wednesday), and the upcoming Manhill and Girl Fair (Friday and Saturday). Note: The transcript contained significant garbled or unintelible portions. This summary reflects the best available interpretation of the meeting based on the agenda and transcription.

The Quincy City Council met on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a prayer, pledge of allegiance, proclamation, call to order, roll call, and approval of the minutes from September 22, 2025. The following agenda items were presented, though no transcript or minutes are available to indicate discussion or final actions. Public Comment - The agenda provided a public comment period limited to three minutes per person. No record of specific comments or speakers is available. Petitions - Special Event Application (Ward 7): Quincy Early Tin Dusters requested approval for the “Fall Color Run” on October 17–18, 2025, involving closure of multiple streets and municipal parking lots from 4:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, with “No Parking” signs posted the afternoon of Friday, October 17. All required documentation was submitted, and the Department of Utilities & Engineering recommended approval. Mayor’s Appointments - Quincy Public Library Board: Appointment of Jake Reed to replace Kelly Mays. - Aeronautics Committee: Appointment of Greg Fletcher to replace Jake Reed. - Quincy, Adams County Task Force: Appointments of Dan Brink (Facilitator), Glen Ebbing, Jake Reed, and Mike Adkins, with three additional members from the County Board to be appointed. Resolutions - 10a: Resolution supporting the Illinois America250 Commission. - 10b: Recommendation from the Aeronautics Committee and Airport Director to approve the low bid of $76,500.00 from Henson Robinson Company of Springfield, IL for replacement of the roof awning at the Quincy Regional Airport Terminal Building. - 10c: Recommendation from the Public Works Director, Engineering Manager, and Finance Committee to allocate $229,125.10 from capital funds for the previously approved change order for the Prairie Crossing Pavement and North 36th Street Sidewalk Project. - 10d: Recommendation from the Quincy Fire Department to accept a FEMA grant of $224,945.71 with a 5% match requirement of $11,247.29 for the purchase of a fire safety trailer. - 10e: Resolution for the Fix or Flatten Program proposing a new list of 16 dangerous and unsafe properties for 2025 across Wards 1, 2, 3, and 7. Ordinances - 11a (Ward 1): Adoption of an ordinance granting a special use permit for a planned development at 1603 Center Avenue to operate a maternity house for up to four pregnant mothers. - 11b: First presentation of an ordinance amending Sections 45.191, 45.194, and 45.195 of the Municipal Code to reduce the number of available LEGUP Grants from four to two and set the maximum grant amount to $10,000 (removing the sliding scale). Key Outcomes - No record of votes, decisions, or other outcomes is available because transcripts and minutes were not provided. The agenda indicates that all items were subject to final action.

The Quincy City Council met on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting opened with a prayer led by Reverend Dr. Booth and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Boy Scout Troop 1B, which celebrated its 100th anniversary. The council approved several proclamations, received the Quincy Police Department's 2024 annual report, approved a contract for license plate reader cameras, and narrowly passed a business district tax ordinance. Public comment focused on support for a maternity house (Hope House) and opposition to book bans. Proclamations The Mayor proclaimed September 22, 2025 as American Business Women's Day in Quincy, recognizing the Quincy Charter Chapter of ABWA established in 1962. September 21, 2025 was proclaimed International Peace Day, with a Peace Pole dedication scheduled for September 30, 2025 at the Villa Catherine Rose Garden, organized by the Rotary Club of Quincy. A special proclamation for Blessed Sacrament Parish Scouts BSA Troop 1B Day (September 20, 2025) was noted, celebrating the troop's 100-year continuous charter. Public Comments & Testimony Dr. Megan Dusterhouse (CEO of Quinata and library board member) expressed support for the "Freed Between the Lines" event and argued that book bans isolate survivors of sexual violence and undermine parental rights. She urged the council not to focus on a single title, noting that the library's collection is curated based on circulation data. Sherry Hills (real estate broker) shared her personal story of being a homeless pregnant 16-year-old taken in by a widow, Linda Hastings. She advocated for the Hope House (a proposed maternity house at 1603 Center Avenue) as a way to break cycles of poverty and abuse, asking the council to approve the special use permit. Brennan Hills (grandson of Sherry Hills and former mayoral candidate) urged the council to support the Hope House, warning that perceived unfriendliness to housing development worsens the city's housing crisis. Consent Agenda The following routine items were approved unanimously (13 ayes, 1 absent): Special event application for Quincy University's Homecoming Parade (October 2, 2025, Ward 2) Special event application for Veterans Day Parade (November 8, 2025, Wards 4, 7) Raffle permit and bond waiver for Quincy Public Schools Foundation (through November 7, 2025) Agreement with GovDeals.com for sale of unused vehicles and equipment Invoice of $12,500 to R.W. Reichert Trucking Services for 24 truckloads of topsoil for the cap's vegetated cover Discussion Items Quincy Police Department 2024 Annual Report (Item 9A): Chief Yates presented highlights: 31,147 calls for service (4.7% increase from 2023); violent crime down 15.96%; property crime down 32.44%; non-index crimes up 15.15%; zero homicides in 2024 (corrected from erroneous 300% reduction in the report). Traffic crashes up 3.28%, injury crashes up 37.38%. The report was received and filed unanimously. Pavement Rating Subscription Contract (Item 10C): Engineering Manager Jeffrey Conte explained that a one-year, $18,880 contract with Vaisala of Boulder, CO, will use AI to rate pavement conditions, assess markings, and catalog road signs from smartphone video footage. The data will be owned by the city. Approved unanimously (13-0). License Plate Reader Cameras (Item 11A): The council approved a two-year lease-purchase contract with Flock Safety for 20 fixed location license plate reader cameras at a total cost of $128,750. Year one costs of $66,250 will come from the FY2026 police budget. Approved unanimously (13-0). 54th Street Business District Tax Ordinance (Item 12A): An ordinance establishing and imposing business district taxes in the 54th Street Business District was adopted with a vote of 10 ayes, 3 nays (Aldermen Bergman, Bauer, and Mays voted no). Special Use Permit – Hope House (Item 12B): The second presentation of an ordinance for a planned development at 1603 Center Avenue (operating a maternity house for up to four pregnant mothers) was heard. No vote was taken at this meeting; it remains pending. Finance Committee Report: Transfers of $49,000 and expenditures of $1,236,491.89 were received and filed unanimously. Key Outcomes Approved four consent agenda items and two removed items (9A, 10C) unanimously. Approved the Flock Safety license plate reader camera contract unanimously. Adopted the 54th Street Business District tax ordinance (10-3). Heard the second presentation of the Hope House special use permit; no action taken. Received and filed the Finance Committee report. The mayor announced new initiatives from the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (water/drought dashboard, Convoy of Hope) that may benefit Quincy. Public Works provided an update on Broadway Street improvements: water main replacement from 12th to 30th Street nearly complete, with intersection work this fall and paving next year.

The Quincy City Council met for a regular meeting on September 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers (based on meeting data; the agenda document is dated September 15, 2025). The agenda included presentations, proclamations, a consent agenda, and several ordinances. No transcript was available, so this summary reflects scheduled items only. Presentations & Proclamations - Introduction of visitor Lucia Ransenburg, Professor of Law, from Buenos Aires, Argentina. - Flock Camera Update presented by Chief Adam Yates. - Proclamations recognized National Diaper Need Awareness Week (September 15-21, 2025), Star Spangled Banner Day (September 14, 2025), and Constitution Week (September 17-23, 2025). Consent Calendar The following routine and non-contested items were scheduled for approval under the consent agenda: - Petitions: AirMedCare Network requested permission for an Air Evac helicopter landing at Blessing Reiman east parking lot, Marx Road, for the Teddy Bear Clinic on October 5, 2025, from noon to 3:00 p.m. (Ward 3). - VFW Post 5129 requested permission to conduct a raffle and waiver of the bond requirement from now through August 30, 2026. The City Clerk recommends approval. - Traffic Commission: Recommendation to extend the 2-hour parking zone on the north side of Spring Street from North 12th Street east to North 13th Street (Ward 2). - Sales Tax Reports: June 2025 sales tax $1,199,700.41; home rule sales tax $1,146,263.30. - Annual Report: Quincy Public Library, May 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025. - Mayor's Appointments: Reappointment of Elaine Davis to the Quincy Housing Authority Board for a 5-year term effective October 1, 2025; appointment of the Ad Hoc Yard Waste Recycling Committee (Greg Fletcher, Tony Sassen, Laura McReynolds, Jeffery Conte, John Schafer, May Ann Ervin, and Dan Brink). - Resolutions: - Approval of invoice from Hawkins, Inc. for $20,700.00 for 9,200 lbs. of polymer. - Approval of invoice from Richards Electric Motor Co. for $23,204.09 for emergency repair of a pump at the Water Treatment Plant. - Approval of invoice from Richards Electric Motor Co. for $11,570.91 for replacement of failed equipment controls at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. - Approval of invoice from Richards Electric Motor Co. for $14,928.89 for emergency repair of electrical equipment at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. - Resolution accepting donation of American flags and flagpoles for installation at entrance to Quincy Regional Airport. Ordinances - 16a: Ordinance authorizing the jurisdictional transfer of Seminary Road (east edge of North 12th Street and a portion of North 18th Street, 50' north of Seminary Road southerly to the south edge of Locust Street) into the city municipal street system (Ward 1). - 16b: Ordinance granting a variation from zoning regulations at 1503 Maas Road to allow construction of a garage and porch encroaching on required yard setback (City limits, near Ward 5). - 16c: Second presentation of an ordinance establishing business district taxes in the City of Quincy 54th Street Business District (Ward 3). - 16d: First presentation of an ordinance granting a special use permit for a planned development at 1603 Center Avenue to operate a maternity house for up to four pregnant mothers (Ward 1). Key Outcomes No votes or decisions were recorded in the available documents. All consent calendar items and ordinances were scheduled for action pending council deliberation.

The Quincy City Council met on September 15, 2025 at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting opened with a prayer/self-reflection, pledge of allegiance, and roll call. Presentations included an introduction of a visitor from Buenos Aires and an update on the Flock camera system by Chief Adam Yates. The council issued proclamations for National Diaper Need Awareness Week (September 15–21), Star Spangled Banner Day (September 14), and Constitution Week (September 17–23). The consent agenda and several ordinances were approved or advanced. Presentations - Visitor from Buenos Aires, Argentina: Lucia Ransenburg, Professor of Law, was introduced. She spoke briefly about community cooperation and the importance of security. - Flock Camera Update – Chief Adam Yates presented an update on the city's Flock automated license plate reader cameras. He reported that since deployment in June 2023, the cameras have assisted in numerous investigations, including locating missing children (five recovered from Wisconsin), identifying a nationwide kidnapping suspect, and solving retail theft cases. The system retains data for 30 days unless preserved as evidence (compared to the Illinois state police's 90-day retention). Yates recommended a two-year contract to lock in pricing: $56,250 to maintain 24 existing cameras and relocate five to more beneficial positions, for a total of $120,750 over two years. Council members expressed strong support, citing the system's value in solving high-profile cases. Public Comments & Testimony - Library Book Concern – A member of the public spoke against the book This Book is Banned (referred to as "this book is buried by Galton"), stating it contains explicit language and content inappropriate for children. He argued it should not be in the children's section and questioned library management and budget use. He urged the council to review the Quincy Public Library's budget. - Support for Library – Another speaker countered that the book's criticism is a politically motivated attack on free speech and diversity. He stated that most "banned" books are merely moved to appropriate sections and that the library should support diverse materials. Consent Calendar The following items were approved by a single motion (all considered routine): - AirMedCare Network: Permission for Air Evac helicopter landing at Blessing Reiman for Teddy Bear Clinic on October 5, 2025, with Quincy Fire Department securing the landing zone. (Ward 3) - VFW Post 5129: Permission to conduct a raffle and waiver of bond requirement through August 30, 2026. - Traffic Commission Report: Extension of the 2-hour parking zone on north side of Spring Street from North 12th to North 13th Street. (Ward 2) - Sales Tax Report: June 2025 – $1,199,700.41 (general) and $1,146,263.30 (home rule). - Annual Report: Quincy Public Library for May 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025. - Mayor's Appointments: - Reappointment of Elaine Davis to the Quincy Housing Authority Board (5-year term effective October 1). - Appointment of Ad Hoc Yard Waste Recycling Committee: Greg Fletcher, Tony Sassen, Laura McReynolds, Jeffery Conte, John Schafer, May Ann Ervin, and Dan Brink (to consider renewal expiring April 2026). - Resolutions: - Approval of $20,700 invoice from Hawkins, Inc. for 9,200 lbs. of polymer. - Approval of $23,204.09 invoice from Richards Electric Motor Co. for emergency pump repair at Water Treatment Plant. - Approval of $11,570.91 invoice from Richards Electric for replacement of failed equipment controls at Waste Water Treatment Plant. - Approval of $14,928.89 invoice from Richards Electric for emergency electrical repair at Waste Water Treatment Plant. - Resolution accepting donation of American flags and flagpoles for Quincy Regional Airport entrance. Discussion Items - Ordinances (presented and considered): - 16a. Jurisdictional Transfer of Roadway – Ordinance authorizing transfer of Seminary Road, east edge of North 12th Street, and a portion of North 18th Street (50' north of Seminary Road southerly to south edge of Locust Street) into the city street system. (Ward 1) - 16b. Zoning Variation – Ordinance granting a variation for construction of a garage and porch encroaching required yard setback at 1503 Maas Road. (Near Ward 5) - 16c. Business District Tax – Second presentation of ordinance establishing and imposing taxes for the 54th Street Business District. (Ward 3) - 16d. Special Use Permit for Planned Development – First presentation of ordinance granting a special use permit for a maternity house for up to four pregnant mothers at 1603 Center Avenue. (Ward 1) - New Business – An update was provided on the failure of a 23-year-old piece of broadcasting equipment used for live-streaming council meetings. The city is working on a solution and will keep the public informed. Also, a council member thanked public works for cleaning up a nuisance property. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda was approved unanimously. - The Flock camera update was received with appreciation; no formal vote was taken on the contract proposal, but the council indicated strong support to continue and expand the system. - Ordinances 16a and 16b were adopted (based on agenda listing and council action). Ordinance 16c advanced to a final reading; Ordinance 16d was introduced for the first time. - The council will consider appointments for an ad hoc sewer/solid waste relations committee in upcoming meetings. - The city will provide updates on broadcasting repairs.

The Quincy City Council met on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a presentation from the Sports Commission, approval of several consent agenda items, discussion of resolutions and ordinances, and reports from city officials. Key actions included approval of zoning variances, a demolition contract, a jurisdictional road transfer agreement, and budget amendments. Consent Calendar - Item 8a: Approved a request from St. Dominic School PTA for a helicopter landing by Survival Flight of Hannibal, MO on September 18, 2025, between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM for their Mighty Machine event. The Quincy Fire Department will secure the landing zone. - Item 8b: Approved a revocable encroachment permit for Connect Child and Family Solutions to hold a rummage sale on Parking Lot F on September 20, 2025, subject to conditions including no trip hazards, liability insurance, and notification to surrounding businesses. - Item 8c: Approved the Octoberfest Marching Band Parade on October 18, 2025, from 33rd & Maine to Quincy Junior High School, with associated street closures and no-parking signs. - Item 8d: Approved Quincy Notre Dame's Homecoming Parade on October 23, 2025, from 9th & Hampshire to 12th & Maine, with closures and no-parking signs. - Item 8e: Approved Quincy Senior High School Homecoming Parade on September 25, 2025, from 14th & Maine to 33rd & Maine, with closures and no-parking signs. - Item 8f: Approved the "A Storybook Christmas" parade on November 29, 2025, from 14th & Maine to 5th & Maine, with closures from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM and no-parking signs. - Item 8g: Approved the Pink Pass It On walk on October 25, 2025, from 5th & Main to 24th & Main and back, on sidewalks, benefiting the Blessing Assistance Program. - Item 12a: Authorized extended term of the Municipal Insurance Cooperative Agency Insurance Pool and approved amended by-laws. - Item 12b: Approved updated Military Leave policy for city employees. - Item 12c: Approved updated Business Travel Expenses and Reimbursement policy for city employees. - Item2d: Authorized demolition of 804 S. 8th at a bid amount of $13,000 to H&D Construction under the Fix or Flatten Program. Public Comments & Testimony - One public speaker addressed the council. The speaker apologized for previous inappropriate remarks and expressed continued commitment to improving the city. No other public comments were recorded. Discussion Items - Presentation - Sports Commission Update: Co-Chairs David Adam and Kelly Mays reported that the commission has held two meetings. They created a mission statement focusing on accessible sports and identifying growth opportunities. They emphasized that no decisions have been made regarding land acquisition or facility construction; the group is still studying needs. They found that out of 46 existing indoor sports courts in the city, only 11 are available for rental, and those are extremely limited. They are requesting proposals for land parcels between 5 and55 acres to host future facilities. Funding options being considered include hotel tax, closing tax, food and beverage tax, private donations, state grants, and public-private partnerships. The commission plans to keep the council informed as they continue research. - Report of the Zoning Board of Appeals: Recommended approval of a variance to allow construction of a624-square-foot accessory building (garage) and a 208-square-foot porch at 1503 Maas Road, due to the unusual lot shape causing setback conflicts. A council member noted the uniqueness of the lot and the need for the variance. The council voted to approve the variance subsequently in the consent agenda. -Resolution 13a - Jurisdictional Transfer of Roadway: Discussed agreement with Adams County to transfer Seminary Road, east edge of North12th Street, and a portion of North18th Street into the city's municipal street system, with a $650,000 payment from the county. Concerns were raised about the city accepting responsibility for maintenance and snow removal. It was clarified that the funds would go into capital improvements for these roads. The resolution was approved with discussion. - Ordinance 14a - Budget Amendment: Proposed amending the 2025-2026 fiscal year budget by adding $24,000 from excess sales tax revenue collected over budget to the General Fund. Approved. - Ordinance4b - Water Pollution Control Loan Program: Authorized entering into a loan agreement under the Home Rule Entity program. Approved. - First Presentation of Ordinance 14c - Jurisdictional Transfer of Roadway: First reading of an ordinance to formalize the transfer of roadway into the city's system (same roads as in Resolution 13a). - First Presentation of Ordinance 14d - Variance from Zoning Regulations: First reading of an ordinance to grant a variance at1503 Maas Road for the garage and porch. Key Outcomes - Approved all consent agenda items unanimously (without objection). - Approved the zoning variance for 1503 Maas Road (moved from consent agenda for discussion, then approved). - Approved Resolution 12d for demolition of 804 S. 8th at $13,000. During discussion, a council member inquired about possible restitution for arson-related costs if a court case results. It was noted the owner will appear in court the next day. - Approved Resolution 13a (jurisdictional transfer) with the $650,000 payment designated for capital improvements. - Approved Ordinances 14a and 14b. - Received the Sports Commission's update and will continue to follow their progress. - Airport news: New air service contract with Contour Airlines begins November 1st. City officials thanked Senators Duckworth and Durbin for assistance. - A council member announced the Bicycle Bass event on Saturday and other community activities. - Meeting adjourned.

The Quincy City Council met on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a presentation and swearing-in of five new police officers, a proclamation for National Recovery Awareness Month, public comment on neglected properties, discussion of a business district tax incentive, and approval of a construction bid for fire station doors. Presentations & Proclamations - Police Officer Swearing-In: Chief Copper introduced five new officers: Morgan Perry (graduate of Quincy High School, John Wood College, and Western Illinois University), Jacob Cooper (Unity High School graduate, formerly at ADM and ATS), DeAndre Bonti (from Montreal, football scholarship at Illinois Power, degree in criminal justice, later coursework in fire science and law enforcement), and Aiden Talkbury (2022 graduate of MEP High School, most recently worked for Quincy Pepsi, also served in the Army National Guard since 2022). All five completed background checks, psychological and physical exams, drug tests, and medical exams. They will attend 16 weeks of training at the Police Training Institute in Champaign or SAT by community field. The council thanked them for their service. - Proclamation: The mayor proclaimed September as National Recovery Awareness Month in Quincy, noting that over 100,000 people in the nation and over three million in Illinois have experienced substance use disorder. The proclamation emphasized that recovery is possible and urged elimination of stigma. The council unanimously approved the proclamation. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident spoke about neglected properties in the community, particularly one property on [address unclear] that has gone without maintenance and unpaid taxes for too long. The speaker urged the city to act more aggressively on code enforcement and asked citizens to report problems rather than assume others will handle them. The speaker criticized the council for not doing enough and called for stronger leadership to clean up the city. Discussion Items - Fire Station Door Replacement Resolution: The council discussed a resolution to approve a bid from Laboratory Construction in the amount of $99,800 for replacement of four doors at the fire station. The project is funded by $60,000 from insurance proceeds and $39,800 from other city funds. The Public Works Committee recommended approval. The council voted to approve the bid. (Vote tally not specified in transcript, but motion carried.) - Business District Tax Incentive Proposal: The council discussed a proposed business district that would impose an additional 1% sales tax on businesses locating on two specific parcels (dimensions 54 ft and 4 ft? unclear). The tax would be collected by the city; the first $20,000 raised would reimburse the city for its costs. The developer could receive up to $1 million from the additional tax revenue, with a two-year window starting when the first business opens and up to ten years to earn the full amount. One council member expressed opposition, arguing it would take business from existing local businesses and that the city should first support the businesses already here. Another council member clarified that the tax only applies to new businesses on that property and that the city retains the ability to cancel the agreement. The council did not take a final vote during this discussion; the transcript indicates further deliberation may be needed. No motion was made or seconded in the transcript. Key Outcomes - Unanimously adopted proclamation for National Recovery Awareness Month. - Sworn in five new police officers (to begin training immediately). - Approved $99,800 bid from Laboratory Construction for fire station door replacement. - Business district proposal was discussed but no vote was taken; the item appears to be carried over or requires additional negotiation. New Business & Other Items - The council noted that the next regular meeting will be on September 7, 2025 (not the usual Monday due to Labor Day). - A brief mention of a digital speed sign and engineering department plans was made, but no action was taken.

The Quincy City Council met on August 11, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a presentation on the River Edge Redevelopment Zone, reports from Quincy Township, public comment, approvals of consent agenda items, discussions on the Driftwood Campground expansion, and the first reading of an ordinance to reorganize the Department of Planning and Development. Presentation: River Edge Redevelopment Zone - Jason Care, Development Director, presented on the newly certified state program. Quincy is one of only six Illinois communities with a River Edge designation. The program provides access to historic preservation tax credits (25% state, stackable with 20% federal) with no competitive cap or maximum award. The zone covers areas within 4,500 feet of the river, including portions of the downtown historic district. Eligible buildings must be income-producing and listed on the National Register or contribute to a historic district. The city's role is limited to identifying the zone; applications are handled by the state. Quincy Township Reports - Township Supervisor reported General Assistance statistics for July 2025 (specific figures were not clearly audible). The Town Auditing Committee report for August 2025 was also presented and accepted. Public Comments & Testimony - One resident (Mandana) spoke, referencing a prior meeting about a property issue. The speaker expressed concerns about the city's communication regarding program benefits, noted that the area is considered the "poor part" of the city, and questioned the effectiveness of previous public outreach. Due to poor audio quality, some details were unclear. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda included: - 9a: Special event permit for The Scoreboard Crosstown Showdown Fundraiser on August 16, 2025, including street closure of York Street from 7th to 8th from noon to midnight (Ward 7). - 9b: Referral to the Plan Commission of Hope House of Quincy's request for a special permit for a maternity house at 1603 Center Avenue (Ward 1). - 9c: Referral to the Plan Commission of Adams County's request to subdivide property at 101-201 North 54th Street for an elevated water storage tower (Ward 3). - 12a: Approval of $12,982.49 invoice from AT&T Services for underground cable repair. - 12b: Approval of $33,517.00 proposal from Rees Construction Company for sewer lateral repair at 7th & Sycamore St. (removed from consent for discussion, then approved after clarification). - 12c: Approval of $101,675.00 proposal from Insituform for structural sewer lining at Vermont St. between 22nd & 24th and 4th & Chestnut. - The consent agenda was adopted with the exception of item 12b, which was discussed separately and later approved. Discussion Items - Driftwood Campground Expansion (Items 11a and 11b): The Plan Commission presented two requests: 11a sought to rescind the previous concurrence for expansion due to water drainage concerns and require a site plan review; 11b sought council concurrence with the proposed expansion of up to 13 gravel RV pads and a gravel entrance, with no new infrastructure. The council discussed the items and took action (the specific vote outcome was not clearly captured in the transcript). - Ordinance 13c: Reorganization of Planning & Development Department: First reading of an ordinance to separate the Department into two divisions (Inspections and Planning/Development), each with its own director. The director explained that this is a reorganization without additional expense, intended to improve processing and code enforcement. No vote was taken; two more readings are required. - Code Enforcement Update: The Mayor announced that the city has over 400 nuisance cases on the list and will be enforcing codes with a focus on voluntary compliance. He also warned of heightened enforcement in school zones. - Request for Animal Control Officer Presentation: A council member requested that the Animal Control Officer present his role and responsibilities to address public confusion from social media posts about dog tethering. The council agreed to arrange this for a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Appointments: Kristen Niemann was appointed to the TIF Rental Rehab Committee (Mayor's appointment). - Ordinances Adopted: - 13a: Adopted an ordinance removing 2-hour parking restrictions on the north side of Maine Street from N. 28th to N. 30th Street (Ward 3). - 13b: Adopted an ordinance granting a zoning variation for a projecting sign higher than 15 feet at 501 Hampshire Street (Ward 7). - Finance Report: The Finance Committee report was received and filed, showing revenues of $91,000 and expenditures of $6,936.71? (audible numbers unclear). - New Business: The council discussed code enforcement and the need for an animal control presentation. The meeting adjourned at an unspecified time. Note: Portions of the transcript were of poor audio quality; details from the Driftwood Campground discussion and some financial figures were not fully discernible.