Public Meetings - Woodstock, Illinois

The Woodstock City Council met on November 7, 2023, at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. All seven council members were present. The meeting featured employee service awards, proclamations, a consent agenda with two items removed for separate discussion (a zoning change for a self-storage facility and a solar farm extension), and a discussion on the design of an intergenerational inclusive playground. The council approved the self-storage facility with additional conditions and rejected the solar farm extension. A consensus was reached on a playground design concept. Floor Discussion - Employee Service Awards: Recognized milestones for 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years of service. Notable 25-year honorees included Daniel Campbell (Opera House Director) and Patrick O’Leary (forestry technician, retired). - Proclamation – William Straczek Retirement: Honored William Straczek for 29 years of service as senior accountant, accepted by Alison Stanger and Paul Christensen. - Proclamation – Veterans Day: Declared November 6–12, 2023, as Operation Greenlight; encouraged residents to display a green light in support of veterans. Accepted by Michael Iwanicke (Superintendent, Veterans Assistance Commission) and other post commanders. - Public Comments: None. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda included approvals of minutes, warrants, commission minutes, and several administrative items (Manager’s Report No. 236). Items D3 (708 McHenry Avenue zoning) and D4 (Solar Farm Extension) were removed for separate consideration. - Council discussed items D7 (playground equipment purchase), D8 (logo licensing), and D9 (grinder replacement). A friendly amendment was added to D6 (wireless alarm agreement) to include attorney review. - The consent calendar, as amended, was approved unanimously (7-0). Discussion Items D3 – Zoning Amendment for 708 McHenry Avenue - Proposal: Rezone a portion of 708 McHenry Avenue from RPUD (Residential) to B3 (Service and Retail) and grant a special use permit for a self-storage facility, subject to conditions from the Plan Commission. - Public Comments: Several neighbors (Lance Kubachek, Jeanette Murray, John Barlow) opposed the project, citing concerns about property values, stormwater, aesthetics, and the precedent of rezoning residential land. The petitioner (Mark Saladin for Ryan Peters) noted significant concessions, including reduced footprint, 20-foot setbacks, wooden privacy fencing, downlighting, and limited hours (7 AM–9 PM). - Council Discussion: Members debated the balance between resident rights and development potential. An “abandonment clause” was added, requiring city council approval before any change of use. The motion passed 6-1, with Councilwoman Ziemba opposing. D4 – Solar Farm Extension - Proposal: Extend a 2018 special use permit for a solar farm at the northwest corner of US Route 14 and Lily Pond Road. Conditions required a building permit by December 15, 2023, and completion by August 1, 2024. - Public Comments: None. - Petitioner (Generate): Kate Duncan, Bethel Gasha, and Eleanor Beitler requested a two-week extension to address concerns. They argued the project was ready (90% engineering drawings, state approvals) and offered a $9.5 million investment. - Council Discussion: Members expressed skepticism about aesthetics (gateway location), limited community benefit (estimated $5/month savings for subscribing residents), and the petitioner’s late engagement. A motion to postpone to November 21 failed 3-4 (Turner, Tebow, Ziemba for; others against). A subsequent motion to approve with conditions failed 3-4 (Tebow, Ziemba, Turner for; others against), effectively denying the extension. Intergenerational Inclusive Park Design - Presentation: Christina (staff) presented two concept plans (A and B) for the Nature’s Way playground at Emricson Park. Both include similar equipment, restrooms, and shelters. Key differences: Plan A has a concrete loop walkway; Plan B features play mounds and a different parking layout. - Council Consensus: All seven council members selected Concept Plan B. Staff will refine parking design separately, aiming for more spaces and safer access. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved as amended (7-0). - 708 McHenry Avenue: Approved (6-1) with Plan Commission conditions and an abandonment clause. - Solar Farm Extension: Denied (3-4) after two motions failed. - Playground Design: Consensus for Concept Plan B; parking design to return later. - Executive Session: Approved (7-0) to discuss real property purchase. - Next Meeting: November 21, 2023, at 7:00 PM.

The Woodstock City Council met on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included council comments on a recent gas leak and home explosion, approval of the consent calendar with one item postponed, and discussion of future agenda items. Mayor and Council Comments - Mayor Turner commended the Woodstock Fire Department, police, public works, city staff, and neighboring communities for their response to a gas leak and home explosion on October 2, 2023. Two homes were total losses, approximately 20 were damaged, and two additional homes were rendered uninhabitable. There were no fatalities and only two minor injuries. He thanked NICOR for their response and the city's communication team for setting up a resource webpage. He also acknowledged the American Red Cross and community donations. - Councilwoman McMahon thanked businesses Power Boutique, Road Redwood, and Sage for serving as donation collection points and noted that affected families are in transition, needing gift cards and GoFundMe support. She requested that city resources be available in Spanish for a non-English-speaking family. - Councilman Flynn passed along thanks from a resident for city staff and police assistance during a pro-life rally. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar originally included items A through D7, covering: - Approval of October 3, 2023 City Council minutes. - Warrants 4072 and 4073. - Minutes and reports from various commissions and the Human Resources monthly report. - Manager’s Report No. 235, including: - Ordinance for FY22/23 final budget amendments (D1). - Ordinance creating a Class A-5 Banquet Hall/Event Venue liquor license for Trademark Events (D2). - Video gaming licenses for Antigua Mexican Grill and Trademark Events (D3). - Resolution for TIF inducement at 101 S. Jefferson Street (D4). - Third Addendum to Tolling Agreement regarding video gaming Push Tax (D5). - Police Pension FY22/23 Annual Statement/Actuarial Report (D6). - Contract extension for custodial services (D7). - Council raised questions on several items: - D1 (Budget Amendments): Councilman Nearman questioned a $65,000 increase (20.24% of budget) in the Recreation Center fund. City Manager Stelford noted that a large repair item was the driver. Nearman also asked about the Water and Sewer CIP fund and the Health Fund's stop-loss insurance; staff clarified that the budget amendments are for legal compliance, not cash flow. - D3 (Video Gaming Licenses): Councilman Seegers raised concerns about the Antigua Mexican Grill license, noting the requirement that gaming machines not be visible from the street. He also questioned the Trademark Events license, fearing it could allow gambling-only events. The City Attorney noted the liquor code defines a banquet hall/event venue and that holding daily gaming events would violate the spirit; the code could be clarified before the next renewal. Councilman Nearman moved to split the question and postpone the Trademark Events video gaming license to the November 7, 2023 meeting for further clarification. This motion passed unanimously (7-0). - D4 (TIF Inducement): Mayor Turner recognized Jim Printaville for development activity at 101 S. Jefferson Street. - D6 (Police Pension): Councilman Nearman criticized the pension fund's investment performance (1.5% return). City Manager noted that the city has no control over investment decisions or benefit levels, which are set by the state. Key Outcomes - Motion to Amend Consent Calendar: Councilman Seegers moved, seconded by Councilman Nearman, to split question on item D3, removing the Trademark Events video gaming license for separate consideration and postponing it to the November 7, 2023 meeting. The motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote (7-0). - Approval of Remaining Consent Calendar: The consent calendar, now excluding the postponed item but including the Antigua Mexican Grill video gaming license, was approved unanimously (7-0). - Future Agenda Items: Council discussed the November 7 and November 21, 2023 agendas. Councilman Seegers requested early materials for the redevelopment agreement under item 9 (likely a future vote). Staff indicated that final drafts are being prepared and will be shared as soon as possible. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified in transcript] following a unanimous voice vote.

The Woodstock City Council held its regular meeting on October 3, 2023, at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations honoring retiring City Clerk Cindy Smiley and declaring October as Manufacturing Month, public comments, and unanimous approval of the consent calendar. A council member raised a question about a bid discrepancy on a tennis court contract, which was addressed by the city engineer. Proclamations and Recognitions - Retirement of Cindy Smiley: Mayor Turner read a proclamation recognizing Cindy Smiley's 26-year career with the city, including roles as executive assistant, chief deputy city clerk, and city clerk. Former Mayor Brian Sager and former City Manager Tim Clifton spoke, praising her professionalism, integrity, and dedication. Smiley thanked her family, former mayors, and staff, reflecting on the city's growth and the Old Courthouse Center project. - Manufacturing Month: Garrett (Business Development) accepted a proclamation declaring October 2023 as Manufacturing Month in Woodstock. The proclamation highlighted that manufacturing is the largest employment sector in Woodstock, with 2,500 jobs, $125 million in annual wages, and an average salary of $76,000. Garrett thanked the council and noted partnerships with education and government to support the manufacturing workforce. Public Comments & Testimony - Anne Marie Whitmore Linzini (Woodstock, incoming Chair of the Arts Commission) expressed her enthusiasm for leading the Arts Commission and cultivating the arts in Woodstock. Mayor Turner thanked her for her service. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from April 10, 2023 (Budget Workshop), September 11, 2023 (Special Meeting), and September 19, 2023 (City Council) were approved. - Warrants: 4070 and 4071 were approved. - Minutes and Reports: Board of Police Commission (Sept 11, 2023 draft), Library Board of Trustees (Aug 10, 2023), and Parks and Recreation (Aug 8, 2023) minutes were accepted. - Manager's Report No. 234: - Appointment of Jane Howie as City Clerk effective immediately (234a). - Appointments to Boards and Commissions: an existing member to Chair the Arts Commission and two new members (234b). - Ordinance approving a B-2 liquor license transfer for Woodstock Food and Liquor (234c). - Ordinance creating a new A-6 liquor license for Duke's Inferno (234d). - Contract award to DK Contractors Inc. for tennis court and pickleball court removal/replacement at Emricson and Olson Parks for $751,343 (234e). - Contract with Thelen Materials LLC for leaf disposal services at $485 per load (234f). - Agreement retaining Sher Edling LLP for PFAS-related legal matters, with David McArdle as authorized representative (234g). - Change order with Imperial Surveillance for access control automation at the Old Courthouse Center, $40,600 plus up to $5,000 for conduit installation (234h). Discussion Items - Bid Discrepancy on Tennis Court Contract (Item D5): Councilwoman McMahon noted a large price discrepancy in the grading line item: the winning bid (DK Contractors) was under $10,000, while other bids were $37,000 and $67,000. City Engineer Chris T explained that the line item is a lump sum, so the contractor cannot come back for more money; discrepancies may arise from how contractors allocate total costs. He confirmed the bid is firm. Council accepted the explanation. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar, including all items A through D8, was approved unanimously by a roll call vote (6-0, with all present council members voting yes). Councilman Flynn made the motion, seconded by Councilwoman Ziemba. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:00 PM (based on agenda timing), with the next meeting scheduled for October 17, 2023, at 7:00 PM.

The Woodstock City Council met on September 19, 2023 at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, presentations, a consent agenda approval, and discussions on Opera House improvements and quarterly financial reports. Five of seven council members were present, constituting a quorum. Proclamations & Presentations - Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation: Mayor Turner read a proclamation recognizing September 15 – October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month. Representatives from Hispanic Connections (Arturo Flores, Teresa Flores, Olga Ortiz, America Quintana, Tania Garcia, Gabby Ordóñez) accepted. The group was thanked for organizing the Mexican Independence Day celebration. - Friends of the Opera House Check Presentation: Peggy Hart and John Puzzo presented a $25,000 donation for an LED video wall at the Opera House. The donation covers about one-third of the cost. Council expressed gratitude for the Friends' volunteer efforts. - Recognition of John Puzzo: Daniel (presumably Daniel from the Opera House) gave a speech honoring John Puzzo for his decades of service as a board member and president of the Friends of the Opera House, including donating his masonry skills. John Puzzo received a standing ovation and spoke about his lifelong connection to the Opera House. Public Comments - No members of the public came forward to speak during the three opportunities for public comment on non-agenda items. Consent Calendar - All items under Consent Calendar (A through D7) were approved in a single vote (5-0). Items included: - Approval of September 5, 2023 City Council minutes - Warrants 4068 and 4069 - Minutes and reports from Arts Commission (August 14, 2023), Economic Development Commission (July 13, 2023), and Human Resources (August 2023) - Manager’s Report No. 233: 1. Ordinance authorizing sale/disposal of surplus vehicle/equipment via GovDeals.com 2. Resolution confirming financial support ($150,000 total, 20% city match) for a U.S. DOT Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant application 3. Resolution adopting the McHenry County Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 4. Dissolution of Real Woodstock, Inc. and termination of the Cooperative Marketing Agreement 5. Historic District Residential Assistance Program allocation up to $3,788.47 for window replacements at 301 West Judd Street 6. Contract award to Fiesta Pool, Inc. for WWW pool improvements (high diving board replacement, deck caulking, concrete repair) at $52,233.15 7. Purchase of AVT Valve Insertion Machine and equipment from Core & Main Company for not more than $75,612.32 - Councilmember McMahon commented on item D6 to ensure completion by Memorial Day. Councilmember Nearman noted the use of a local contractor for D6 and the proactive savings from in-house work for D7. Discussion Items - DLR Report – Opera House Improvements: Staff presented a plan for approximately $4.6 million in improvements, of which $3 million is covered by a DCEO grant. The remaining $1.6 million is from existing capital budgets, accelerated from future years. The report identified over $7 million in total potential needs. Staff recommended prioritizing projects with the greatest operational impact. The architectural process is expected to take about six months, with construction bidding starting around April 2024. The current grant deadline for construction completion is December 31, 2024. Council members expressed strong support after a site walkthrough earlier in the day. Several council members praised the evolution of Opera House management and the partnership with staff. No formal vote was taken; discussion was for direction. - Quarterly Financial Reports – First Quarter FY23/24: CFO Paul reported on first quarter revenues and expenditures. Key points: Sales tax up 1.7%, home rule sales tax down 1.8%, building permit fees down about 50% from expectations. Investment earnings exceeded budget (40.7% of budget vs. 25% expected) due to higher interest rates. The economy is slowing as anticipated in the budget. Councilmember Bob suggested reconsidering impact fees to stimulate growth, noting current fee revenues were only 6.8% of budget. Staff indicated openness to future discussion. No action taken. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously (5-0): all items A through D7 passed. - Opera House Improvements received strong council support; staff will proceed with architectural selection and return to council for recommendation on October 19, 2023. - Quarterly Financial Reports were received and filed; council directed staff to consider impact fee discussion for a future meeting. - Meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified] after a unanimous vote (5-0) to adjourn. Next regular meeting scheduled for October 3, 2023 at 7:00 PM. Note: This was Clerk Cindy Smiley's final meeting; she was thanked for her years of service.

The City Council met at 7:00 PM on September 5, 2023, with six of seven members present. The meeting included presentations, a police officer swearing-in, public comments, a consent agenda (with one item removed for separate vote), discussion on a solar farm extension request, and a zoning map amendment discussion for 708 McHenry Avenue. No binding votes were taken on the discussion items. Consent Calendar - Approved the August 15, 2023 City Council minutes, warrants 4065–4067, and various minutes/reports (Arts Commission, Police Department, Library Board). - Approved Manager's Report No. 232 items including board appointments, removal of a Class C-2 liquor license for VFW Post 5040 (with Councilwoman McMahon clarifying the post is not closing), an intergovernmental agreement with Village of Hebron for plumbing inspection services, an amendment to vehicle impound provisions, an economic incentive agreement with Kunes Country Auto Group, a lease for incubator space at Old Courthouse Center (Seleta Scents), an amendment to the Police Extra Detail Program, contracts for downtown snow removal (Langton Group, Gavers Excavating, Bell Cartage), Opera House window/door restoration (Heritage Restoration & Design Studio, up to $887,713), Old Courthouse refuse collection (MDC Environmental Services, $36,000 over 3 years), water treatment filter valve replacement (Dorner Company, up to $35,949), and a holiday lights contract extension (Associated Electrical Contractors, up to $57,500). - Item D8 (Strategic Plan) was removed for separate consideration (see Key Outcomes). - Consent calendar items (excluding D8) passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the floor discussion period for non-agenda items. - During the solar farm discussion, no members of the public spoke. - During the 708 McHenry Avenue discussion, multiple neighbors expressed strong opposition: - Patricia Ruleau (655 Flag Lane) questioned the need for storage, noting six competing facilities were not full (two at 85%, two at 60%, one at 90%) and raised concerns about loss of trees and wildlife. - Carol Malmgren (671 Flag Lane) objected to rezoning the southern RPUD portion to B3, fearing loss of buffer and stormwater impacts; she asked about retention pond placement. - Lance Kubachak (671 Flag Lane) argued industrial/mini-warehouse uses do not belong near residences and said zoning should protect residents. - Michael Pagano (755 Flag Lane) cited lighting intrusion from halogen lights atop buildings, noise from 24-hour access, and lack of local economic benefits (no jobs, low tax revenue). - John Barlow (741 Flag Lane) said he bought his home for the forested view and feared loss of wildlife; he noted eight storage facilities within two miles. - Jenny Murray (769 Flag Lane) raised flood concerns due to prior tree removal and existing code violations on adjacent properties. - Another unnamed resident (husband of Patricia) highlighted flooding from five drains and urged a quick resolution. Discussion Items - Extension of Special Use Permit for Solar Farm (US-14 & Lily Pond Road): - Petitioner Kate Duncan (attorney for Generate Capital) explained the project received state incentives under the Illinois Shines program in May 2023 and ICC approval in July 2023. A building permit application is pending; construction could start within three months. The project is now under new ownership (Generate Capital), which intends long-term ownership. - Council members expressed skepticism over the lengthy process (since 2018), concerns about the gateway appearance, decommissioning bonding, and lack of clear financial benefits for the city. Councilwoman McMahon opposed another one-year extension; she and others favored a six-month extension with clear milestones. Councilman Nearman (absent) had previously raised maintenance concerns. Mayor Turner suggested six-month limit and requested renderings, track record of the owner, and specifics on the state incentive. Staff was directed to bring back a proposal with conditions. - Zoning Map Amendment – Proposed Development Agreement at 708 McHenry Avenue: - City Manager Roscoe Stelford announced that the petitioner (represented by attorney Mark) would withdraw the petition to rezone to M1 (manufacturing) and instead seek a text amendment to allow mini-warehousing as a special use in B3 zoning, with a companion special use request for this property. This approach would allow the council to attach enforceable conditions. - Mayor Turner emphasized that M1 was “off the table.” The existing property has B3 frontage but the southern portion is residential (RPUD); the rezoning would affect only about four lots behind Flag Lane. - Neighbor concerns (listed above) centered on lighting, noise, stormwater, traffic, loss of wildlife, and potential devaluation. Councilman Seegers argued the project would improve stormwater management, add assessed value, and that lighting can be mitigated with downward fixtures and non-24-hour operation. Councilman Nearman voiced trust issues about rezoning near homes. Councilwoman Ziemba noted existing code enforcement problems. Councilman Tebow said he is torn but stressed that the neighbors' property rights are important. - No vote was taken; the item will proceed to the Plan Commission (September 21) and likely to Council on October 3. Key Outcomes - Strategic Plan (FY23/24–FY28/29) – Item D8: Approved unanimously (6-0) after Councilman Seegers raised concerns about language that could be used by future special interests, but he voted in favor noting the plan is 90% good. - Solar Farm Extension: No formal vote; direction from council is to work with petitioner to return with a six-month extension proposal that includes concrete milestones, renderings, ownership track record, and details on state incentives. - 708 McHenry Avenue: The petitioner will withdraw the M1 rezoning and instead pursue a text amendment plus special use permit; the process will go back through Plan Commission and then to Council for a future vote. - Police Officer Swearing-In: Edward Harrell, a former Explorer program participant, was sworn in as a Woodstock Police Officer. - Car Show Donation: Organizers presented a $7,000 check from the

The Woodstock City Council met on August 15, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The mayor and assistant mayor were absent, so a council member presided; after an opening oral misstatement, the chair corrected the date to August 15, 2023. Five council members were present and voting. The council read a retirement proclamation, heard public comment, approved the consent calendar with two items removed for separate action, received the fourth-quarter FY22/23 financial reports, and adjourned to September 5, 2023. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar, approved in a single unanimous roll-call vote (5 yes), included the August 1, 2023 City Council minutes; warrants 4063 and 4064; the July 2023 Human Resources monthly report; June 14, 2023 Parks and Recreation minutes; July 20, 2023 Plan Commission minutes; the June 2023 Woodstock Police Department monthly report; and Manager’s Report No. 231. - Manager’s Report No. 231 also included the Mayor’s nomination to the Parks & Recreation Commission, a sidewalk replacement contract award to Alliance Contractors, Inc. for Phase 2 not to exceed $110,000, and a skip patching contract award to Schroeder Asphalt Services, Inc. not to exceed $51,000. Public Comments & Testimony - Rob Mutard of 10820 Bull Valley Road, founder of Warp Corps, spoke during floor discussion. He said he loved Woodstock, described Warp Corps as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) focused on drug-demand reduction through youth prevention and engagement, and stated the community has a massive drug problem. He expressed full support for prevention-based youth programs and invited the council and community to the premiere of a short-form documentary about Warp Corps at the Woodstock Opera House on September 1, 2023, with a VIP meet-and-greet at 6:30 p.m., the film at 8:00 p.m., and a panel discussion afterward. He said young people need somewhere to do something, somewhere to do it, and somebody who cares about them. Discussion Items - City Manager Roscoe Stelford and Finance Director Paul presented the Fourth Quarter FY22/23 quarterly financial reports, noting that a few final transactions remained to be recorded. - Revenue highlights: income tax was $1.3 million above budget; regular sales tax was $200,000 below budget, with staff attributing the shortfall mainly to car sales; sales tax rebates were $150,000 lower than anticipated; home-rule sales tax was $145,000 above budget; interest income was $1.3 million above budget; and intergovernmental revenue was down $2.4 million because anticipated grants, including the DCO grant, are expected in the next fiscal year. Water and sewer revenue was on budget at $6.3 million. - Opera House performance: concession revenue rose from $44,000 in 2019 to $134,000 in FY22/23, and program revenue was up $45,000 from 2019, exceeding the pre-pandemic level. - Expense highlights: all funds were close to budget except two. TIF 2 was $8 million above budget, primarily from accounting for bond proceeds transferred to a side agency plus some cost overruns, to be clarified in a budget amendment in about four to six weeks. The utility CIP for water and sewer was over budget due to higher costs for water and sewer work tied to the enhanced road improvement program. - In response to council questions, staff said the Opera House subsidy gap was about the same as in prior years, but because usage was up, the subsidy on a per-user basis was likely lower. A council member asked for more detailed, graph-format financial reporting for the Opera House and other funds, and staff committed to improving regular financial reporting to the council and public. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved the consent calendar as presented, with items D2 and D3 removed for separate consideration. - Item D2, an ordinance granting a variation to allow a gravel parking lot surface at the southeast corner of Dean Street and Hercules Road for the Land Conservancy, was approved unanimously by roll call (5 yes). Councilman Seegers supported the request but voiced concern that future gravel parking approvals should include time limits. - Item D3, a zoning map amendment for 708 McHenry Avenue from B3 Service and Retail District and RPUD Single-Family Residential District to M1 Limited Manufacturing District, was postponed to the September 5, 2023 City Council meeting at the petitioner’s request by unanimous roll call (5 yes). - The council adopted the retirement proclamation for Pat O’Leary, effective September 1, 2023, recognizing his 25-plus years as the city’s forestry technician/arborist, including removing 207 ash trees between 2009 and 2015 and managing more than 180 downtown banners. - The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote, with the next regular meeting set for September 5, 2023, at 7:00 p.m.

The Woodstock City Council held its regular meeting on August 1, 2023 at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. Six of seven council members were present. The meeting followed a consent format with items acted upon in a single motion unless removed. The consent agenda was approved unanimously after discussions on two items, and one item (D2) was removed for separate consideration and approved with an amendment. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (all items A through D6 except D2): - Approval of July 18, 2023 City Council minutes. - Warrants 4061 and 4062. - Minutes and reports from Cultural & Social Awareness Commission (April 3, 2023), Environmental Commission (June 1, 2023), Plan Commission (May 18 and June 15, 2023), Police Pension Board (July 11, 2023), and Woodstock Police Department Monthly Report (May 2023). - Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit for outdoor storage of recreational vehicles on Lot 3, Castle Road (Item D1). - Contract award for South Plant Phosphorus Reduction system design by Trotter & Associates, Inc. not to exceed $247,500 (Item D3). - Affirmation of emergency repair contract for Well 7 with Layne Christensen Company not to exceed $102,060 (Item D4). - Rejection of the sole bid ($98,163) from Alliance Contractors for the South Street Crosswalk Relocation project due to high cost (Item D5). - Authorization for City Manager to approve various change orders for Old Courthouse & Sheriff’s House Renovations totaling $421,534.50 (Item D6). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the floor discussion or on consent agenda items. Discussion Items - Item D1 – Special Use Permit – Lot 3 Castle Road: Councilman Nearman raised concerns about the absence of detention/retention ponds and the use of non-pervious grindings, requesting more landscaping. City Manager Roscoe Stelford clarified the project must still meet stormwater ordinances and will be reviewed by the city engineer, and noted that the Plan Commission had already added conditions for additional landscaping along the Castle Road frontage. Councilman Nearman, who owns adjacent property (east of the site), expressed appreciation for added slatted screening to limit views. He was satisfied after clarification that Plan Commission conditions were part of the ordinance. - Item D5 – Rejection of Bids – Woodstock High School Crosswalk Relocation: Councilwoman McMahon asked for explanation. City Manager Stelford stated there was confusion in the bidding process; bidders assumed brand-new equipment was needed, but existing equipment can be repurposed, significantly lowering cost. The sole bid ($98,163) exceeded the engineer’s estimate. Staff recommended rejecting the bid and re-bidding with clear specifications to use existing equipment. - Item D2 – Zoning Map Amendment & Special Use Permit – 210 N. Seminary Avenue: Councilwoman McMahon moved to remove this item from the consent calendar. She proposed requiring the petitioner to participate in the City of Woodstock property management program as a condition of the special use permit (to allow an apartment above a first-floor business). The owner was notified and had no objection. Council supported the amendment. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously (6-0) with all items A through D6 except D2. - Item D2 approved unanimously (6-0) as amended: The ordinance authorizing a zoning map amendment from M1 Limited Manufacturing to B3 Service and Retail District, and granting a special use permit for an apartment above a first-floor business at 210 N. Seminary Avenue, with the added condition that the property must participate in the City of Woodstock property management program. - Future agenda items noted: Discussions for the August 15, 2023 meeting include bidding out tuckpointing on the Opera House (part of a DCO grant) and window restoration. A strategic review meeting with council is planned for early to mid-September 2023. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:30 PM.

The Woodstock City Council met on July 18, 2023, at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included the swearing-in of four police officers, two proclamations, unanimous approval of a consent calendar, and a discussion on a proposed bicycle path striping project on Dean Street. Council directed staff to proceed with the bike lane plan. Swearings-in and Proclamations - Police Officer Swearings-in: Chief Lee administered oaths for four positions created by a chain reaction of promotions: Detective Sergeant George Kopulos, Detective Sam Gustafson, Sergeant Richard Dolan, and Officer Jarod Baker. The chief emphasized the importance of the oath and the support of family. - Retirement Proclamation for Rick Mack (METRA): Mayor Turner presented a proclamation honoring Rick Mack for 32 years of service at METRA. Mack expressed gratitude and noted his favorite part of the job was working with municipalities, including Woodstock. He regretted not completing the Woodstock Rail Yard project before retirement but pledged to continue advocating from his roles as Ringwood Village President and McHenry County Council of Governments President. - Disability Pride Month Proclamation: The council proclaimed July 2023 as Disability Pride Month in Woodstock, recognizing the Americans with Disabilities Act anniversary and the contributions of people with disabilities. The proclamation was accepted by the Human Resources Director on behalf of the Social and Cultural Awareness Commission. Public Comments & Testimony - Council Comments (non-public): Council member Tom thanked city staff for support of the Gavers Barn Dance fundraiser. Council member Gordy thanked staff for the tour of the old courthouse, noting it will be a community asset. Mayor Turner thanked staff for the July 4th celebration and highlighted the Food Shed groundbreaking earlier that day. - Public Comment on the Dean Street Bike Path: One resident, Philip Jackson, addressed the council. He expressed concerns about the bike lane width (9-foot travel lanes vs. 5-foot bike lane on one side and 4-foot on the other) and questioned the cost and source of funding. He asked about the long-term plan for connecting bike paths and whether it would require additional funding. Staff explained the cost was $2,000–$2,500, funded by Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) revenues, and that future expansions would come back to council. Council members responded that bike-friendliness is a long-standing resident request and that the road improvement plan ($56 million over five years) is on track, with pavement quality index improving by 8–10 points. Discussion Items - Bicycle Paths – Dean Street: Christina Betts (Executive Director of Operations) and Chris T (staff) presented a plan to stripe bike lanes on Dean Street from Route 14 to South Street. The proposal was developed after a June 22 public hearing attended by 8 residents, who gave generally favorable feedback. The design, done in-house to save costs, uses: - From Route 14 to Hoy Street: 36-foot pavement width allows for two 9-foot travel lanes, a 5-foot bike lane (adjacent to parking) on one side, and a 4-foot bike lane on the other (per national standards). - From Hoy Street to South Street: 25-foot pavement width will use shared lane markings (sharrows) since there is insufficient room for separate lanes. Travel lanes will be 12.5 feet wide. - Council discussed lane width (9 feet vs. 10 feet), enforcement of bike lane rules, maintenance of striping (annual program using MFT funds), and potential for future expansion to Kimball Avenue and South Street. - Staff noted that the striping contract was already awarded under the consent agenda; quantities for Dean Street can be added or removed without penalty. - Council expressed general support and directed staff to proceed with the plan, while acknowledging the public’s feedback on lane width. Staff will continue to assess width and safety. Consent Calendar The consent calendar (Items IV.A through IV.D.11) was approved unanimously with a single motion (7-0). It included: - Approval of June 20, 2023 City Council minutes. - Warrants 4058, 4059, 4060. - Various commission minutes and HR reports. - Manager’s Report No. 229: 1. Appointments to city commissions. 2. Ordinance creating a Class A5 liquor license for Events at Ethereal and removing a Class A6 license for BBQ Smokehouse. 3. Ordinance assigning a Class D liquor license to The Double Yolk Café. 4. Resolution appropriating $1,045,000 in MFT funds for FY23/24. 5. Contract award for sidewalk cutting (not to exceed $25,000). 6. Contract award for electrical improvements at Emricson Park ($30,800). 7. Contract award for 2023 pavement marking program ($148,124.31). 8. School Resource Officer agreement with D200 for 2023–2024. 9. Memorandums of Understanding with bargaining units (new pay grades, GPS in vehicles). 10. Ratification of LED wall purchase for Opera House ($65,100). 11. Expenditure for one 2023 Ford Utility Police Interceptor ($52,345 plus up to $5,000 for equipment). - Council member Gordy asked about Item D.10 (LED wall) and was informed it was a used unit purchased at a lower cost. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: All items approved unanimously. - Dean Street Bike Path: Council directed staff to proceed with the striping plan. The design was done in-house; the incremental cost is $2,000–$2,500 from MFT funds. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for August 1, 2023, at 7:00 PM. The DICAST TIFF redevelopment agreement was not expected to be ready for that meeting.

The Woodstock City Council met on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting was live-streamed. Six of seven council members were present (Councilman Flynn absent). The agenda included a Juneteenth proclamation, a consent calendar with 14 items (several removed for separate discussion), public comments, and a discussion on event security and police extra duty details. Key votes included approval of a zoning variation with a 10-year paving condition, a new liquor and video gaming license, and a change order for multi-colored exterior lighting at the Old Courthouse (passed 4-2). Proclamation - The Council unanimously recognized June 19, 2023 as National Juneteenth Day. Representatives from the Juneteenth Committee accepted the proclamation and expressed gratitude for community support. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar included items A through D12, with D1, D2, D5, and D6 removed for separate consideration. The remaining items (approval of minutes, warrants, commission minutes, various ordinances, resolutions, and contracts) were approved unanimously by roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Nader Lonsford, representing Steven's Home (a street outreach for the homeless), introduced the program and requested a conversation with the city about establishing a day resource center and access to a commercial kitchen. Council expressed openness to further discussion. - Dan, representing the MCYSA Summer International Baseball Tournament (30th year), thanked the city for support. The tournament will feature over 60 teams, including from Japan, Brazil, and Canada, and is expected to generate over 350 hotel room nights in Woodstock. Mayor Turner agreed to throw ceremonial first pitches. Discussion Items - Event Security – Extra Details: City Manager Roscoe Stelford and Police Chief presented a challenge: fewer officers are voluntarily signing up for extra duty details (paid at a flat $50.50/hour entry rate) to staff community and private events. The Council discussed options: increasing the pay rate, designating more events as community events (mandatory overtime at higher rates), or passing higher costs to event organizers. Key points included maintaining safety, preserving the use of Woodstock PD (over county or private security), and giving organizers ample notice of rate changes. Council expressed support for adjusting pay to attract volunteers and requested that staff return with historical data and a tiered proposal (e.g., alcohol vs. non-alcohol events). No vote was taken; staff will bring back recommendations. Key Outcomes - Item D1 – UDO Variations (14500-15500 Davis Road): Approved unanimously (6-0) with conditions: the applicant agreed not to remove the tree line along Route 14 and to pave the entrance visible from Davis Road. The gravel parking lot must be paved within 10 years (subject to a variance extension). The ordinance waives parking lot surfacing, curbing, and landscaping requirements. - Item D2 – Liquor and Video Gaming License (Antigua Mexican Grill 3): Approved unanimously (6-0) to create a Class A-6V license, contingent on fulfillment of all requirements. - Item D5 – Change Order for Old Courthouse Exterior Lighting: Approved 4-2, authorizing up to $195,615.49 for multi-colored lighting (including a $1,600 first-year maintenance agreement). Councilmembers Nearman and Seegers voted no, citing the $88,000 premium over estimated white-light cost. The mayor noted the project remains within the TIF budget. - Item D6 – Lease Agreement (More Polish Pottery): Tabled unanimously (6-0) after the petitioner withdrew. Future Agenda Items - The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 18, 2023, at 7:00 PM. The Old Courthouse renovation is expected to be substantially complete by July 8, with a grand opening celebration around August 17. Businesses (e.g., the pub, MobCraft Beer) are projected to open to the public in mid-to-late August.