City of Collinsville City Council met May 22.
Here is the minutes as provided by the council:
A. Call Meeting to Order
Mayor Miller called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.
B. Roll Call
Also present: City Manager Mitch Bair and City Clerk Kim Wasser.
Councilman Cheryl Brombolich, Councilman Donna Green,
Councilman David Jerome, Councilman Jeff Stehman, and Mayor John
Miller
Present: 5 -
Absent: 0
C. Invocation
Delivered by Pastor Kevin Hancock of New Community Church.
D. Pledge of Allegiance
Recited.
E. Proclamations/Recognition/Presentations
1. Recognition of Joseph Jackstadt, Zachary Otero, April Burns, Emily Holten,
Kate Fischer, Alyssa Huckins, and Danielle Blackard as recipients of $1,000
scholarships from the City of Collinsville Educational Scholarship Foundation
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
President of the Collinsville Education Scholarship Foundation, Kia Redmond, congratulated newly
elected Councilmen Green and Jerome. He recognized 7 scholarship recipients and announced 32
scholarships have been awarded since 2010. He introduced board members Vice President Bill
Metzger, Secretary Brad Keene, Treasurer Tamara Ammann, Dr. Trisha Blackard, Terri Andrews,
Dan Mode, and Kim Collins.
Kim Collins introduced recipient Zachary Otero. She described Zachary as being in the top 3% in his
class, National Honors Society President, Key Club Editor, Student Council, Speech and Debate
Team Captain, as well as many other extra curricular activities. He plans on attending Washington
University and majoring in International Business. Zachary is also the recipient of the first William J.
Metzger Scholarship.
Recipient April Burns was introduced. She graduated Summa Cum Laude and 5th in her class. April
plans on attending Indiana State University. She is very active in community events and was the Editor
of the Kahoki (school newspaper).
Kia Redmond introduced Kate Fischer. She graduated with a 4.8 GPA and class rank #1. Kate was
involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, student tutorer at her church, and volunteered as a Big
Sister at Butterfly Dreams Pageant for Special Needs participants. He mentioned the numerous
accolades Kate received while attending Collinsville High School. She will be attending St. Louis
University, specializing in Neurosurgery.
Dr. Blackard introduced scholarship recipient Alyssa Huckins. She listed the various school activities
and volunteerism Alyssa was involved in. Alyssa is an Illinois State Scholar and graduated Summa
Cum Laude. As a results of two friends diagnosed with childhood cancer, Alyssa plans on studying
radiology at Purdue University.
Kim Collins introduced Dani Blackard. Dani participated in the Running Start program at
Southwestern Illinois College where she received college credit while concurrently attending high
school. While maintaining college level academics, Dani was the Captain of the varsity cheer squad,
STEM Club, Executive Board, National Honors Society and much more. Collins also listed the
various volunteer opportunities Dani participated in. Dani will be attending the Missouri Institute of
Science and Technology in Rolla.
Emily Holten was introduced as being a scholarship recipient. She graduated Collinsville High School
ranking in the top 5% and was an Illinois State Scholar. She volunteered at various community
outreach programs and participated in numerous school activities such as Executive Class, Student
Council, Multicultural Club, Mu Alpha Theta, and more. She was the Captain of the Lady Kahoks
soccer team where she received many awards for her athletic abilities. Emily plans on continuing her
academic and athletic career at the University of Mississippi.
2. Presentation of the May 2017 Yard of the Month Award to Jim and Mary
Piesbergen
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Mayor Miller presented Mary Piesbergen with the May Yard of the Month award and gift certificate.
F. Business Prior to Public Input
1. Consideration of a Staff Initiated Request to Modify the Definitions and
Regulations Contained Within the Zoning Ordinance Related to Dwellings
Located Below the First Floor of Non-Residential Buildings
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Memo Basement Apartments in non-residential Structures
Planning Commission Report
PCMinutes041317
PCMinutes041317Exhibits
PCMinutes051117
City Manager Bair gave a brief overview of the agenda item as Community Development Director
David Bookless was absent. He explained this issue was initiated after an application was received
from a commercial property owner who wanted to use the basement for residential purposes.
Applicant was advised that such use is prohibited per Zoning Ordinance. A public hearing was held
before the Planning Commission. Fire Chief Kevin Edmond addressed the Planning Commission
regarding Life Safety issues associated with basement apartments. Planning Commission voted
unanimously to deny the application based on health and safety issues. He indicated the Planning
Commission's recommendation is to deny the request by making a motion to uphold the current
regulations and prohibition on basement apartment in commercial buildings.
Mayor Miller clarified that a yes vote would uphold the current practice and not allow for basement
apartments as residential use in commercial buildings while a no vote would go against the current
practice. City Manager Bair confirmed. He also advised Council they could refer the item back to
the Planning Commission for additional clarification or concerns.
Councilman Jerome voiced his concern of affirming regulations that are already in place. He also
mentioned his concern of the listed definition for a basement being at least 50% below grade. He
explained that Collinsville's hilly terrain allows for walkout basement structures and gave examples.
He further explained that absolutes or prohibition without relief could be problematic.
Councilman Stehman advised the Building Code clearly defines a basement as being 50% below
grade and the type of use is the issue at hand. He further advised the Planning Commission nor
Council should address Building Code issues as that is done by the Building and/or Fire Department.
Mayor Miller spoke of code allowing for residential units above a commercial establishment rather
than below grade. He referenced his experience as a Fireman and Life Safety issues regarding
residential units below grade with limited means of ingress and egress.
Councilman Jerome indicated he was not in disagreement regarding the principle of the matter but the
definition seems strict with no options. A discussion was had regarding commercial building
basements as residential use.
Item was tabled and referred back to the Planning Commission to address use issue.
A motion was made by Councilman Stehman, seconded by Councilman
Brombolich to table. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
G. Council Discussion
H. Speakers from the Floor
City Clerk Wasser advised another scholarship recipient had just arrived. Bill Metzger introduced
Joseph Jackstadt as a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Collinsville High School who plans on attending
Illinois State University with hopes of becoming a Nurse Anesthetist. He mentioned the various extra
curricular activities and outreach opportunities Joseph was involved in. Kia Redmond apologized and
indicated a letter was sent out to the recipients that indicated the Council meeting started at 7:30pm.
Bob DesPain spoke of the April 10 meeting and the Mayor's comments. He indicated the minutes
reflect an impropriety since the word podium was typed but the word dais was said.
Michelle Brown described her home. She spoke of a receiving water in her basement. She indicated
the City installed a swale but she is asking for additional forms of water elevation.
Marjorie Weiss mentioned several issues she is experiencing on Rolling Oaks Drive. Such issues
include drainage problem from Brookhill apartments, sink holes, burned condominium, children
walking through private properties, weeds, down trees and trash.
Janet Schultz commended the scholarship recipients. She inquired of street repairs and whether grants
are available for such since she is not within a TIF District. She also inquired of several expenditures
listed on the agenda for a fence, painting of walls, mailbox replacement, and catering service.
Liz Dalton mentioned the annual Garden Tour hosted by the Community Appearance Board.
Karen McReynolds welcomed the newly elected members. She indicated their position entails much
responsibility and many challenges. She spoke of the First Amendment. She inquired of an
expenditure for Gateway Grizzlies tickets. She inquired of an expenditure to McLanahan's for an
accident repair. She mentioned an expenditure for Aleve and asked if such purchase is appropriate.
I. Comments & Announcements – Mayor
Mayor Miller commended the scholarship recipients and thanked the foundation board members for
their efforts. He spoke of the Memorial Day parade to be held on May 29. He mentioned the
Hometown Heroes Banners. Mayor Miller advised that staff is working on addressing the issues
brought about from speakers.
J. Comments & Announcements - Council Members
Councilman Brombolich congratulated the scholarship recipients. She spoke of recipient Emily Holten
and her athletic abilities. She thanked the committee members and those who donate to the
foundation.
Councilman Jerome congratulated the 2017 Collinsville High School graduating class. He spoke of
the Honors Convocation and many talented students. He mentioned the opportunity to work with the
school district. He asked Ms. Schultz of her address and confirmed that Public Works Director
Dennis Kress was aware of the situation. He made mention of a list prioritizing road repairs. He
indicated Council is willing to participate in redress of grievances but they should not include personal
attacks. He spoke of soliciting citizen's comments. He gave his opinion on the purchase of Aleve. He
indicated he approves such purchase for his employees and deems it as an item in the first aid kit.
Councilman Stehman spoke of the scholarship recipients and their volunteerism efforts. He indicated
there are many issues that Council and staff are addressing. He spoke of neighborhood preservation.
He reiterated that he has no ownership in McLanahan's Towing and has not since 2011. He indicated
that he owns the building.
Councilman Green spoke highly of the scholarship recipients. She mentioned the C3 event and their
discussions regarding the impact test scores has on the school district. She spoke of the efforts by
staff and leadership of Unit 10. She reminded the public to be patient with the Council as it takes time
to make changes. She indicated that it is not the Council's responsibility to micromanage every detail
or question every expense but oversee operations.
Mayor Miller clarified that the City has nothing to do with the scholarship foundation and no City funds
are used. The foundation is comprised of an independent board with its own 501(c)(3) status. He
advised scholarship funds consist of various fundraisers.
K. Comments & Announcements - City Staff
City Manager Bair spoke of the City Scoop that was mailed to residents.
He advised Mrs. Brown that he will have the City Engineer contact her regarding her issue. He briefly
addressed the Rolling Oaks Dr. issue and mentioned the ongoing legal matters. He indicated he would
have the Community Development Director follow up on the additional issues mentioned. He advised
discussions will occur at a future Council meeting regarding a complete Capital Improvement Projects
(CIP) overview. The CIP will address the road repair schedule. He mentioned the utility tax increase
to help fund various projects.
He further addressed the comments regarding various expenditures. He advised the Gateway
Grizzlies item was a deposit in that the City is hosting an event but the employees have to pay for the
tickets. The catering bill was for the EDC event which is paid for by sponsorships. He indicated that
every City facility has a first aid kit and ibuprofen is a standard item.
City Manager Bair addressed a concern regarding bulk trash. He advised the only change to the bulk
trash service is that the individual must call in to schedule a pick up. Councilman Brombolich
mentioned an email she received from a citizen. The citizen indicated she was asked by Republic
Services what items was to be picked up. It was clarified that Republic Services only wants to know
what types of items or approximate amount of items (general information) so they know what size/type
of truck to send for the pick up.
He advised the mailbox expenditure was for a replacement of an expensive brick mailbox that was
damaged by a City truck. Public Works Director Kress advised a fence at a lift station was repaired.
City Manager Bair advised regular maintenance is done on City owned facilities. Maintenance may
include painting. He indicated the interior walls at Fire Station 1 was recently painted since it only had
a primer coat.
L. Consent Agenda
City Clerk Wasser read the Consent Agenda.
1. Motion to Approve Payment of Bills for the Period Ending May 12, 2017 in
the Amount of $1,668,246.12
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Board List 04-01-17
Board List 05-03-17
Board List 05-05-17
Board List 05-12-17
2. Motion to Approve Payroll for the Periods Ending 4/30/17 & 5/5/17 in the
Amount of $546,043.08
Attachments: Agenda Item 5-22-17
Board List Bonus 04-30-17
Board List 05-05-17
3. Motion to Approve Minutes of the May 8, 2017 Meeting
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
050817 RegMtg.docx
Mayor Miller asked if the Council wished to pull any items prior to a Motion.
No items were pulled. A motion was made by Councilman Green, seconded by
Councilman Brombolich, to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion carried
by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
M. New Business
1. Ordinance Accepting an Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission
Settlement Contract Lump Sum Petition and Order
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
Settlement Contract
Overview by Stacey O'Brien, Human Resource Coordinator, advised the ordinance would authorize a
settlement payment in the amount of $40,593.08 to Chris Warren. Officer Warren was injured during
defensive tactic training. All medical expenses and temporary disability benefits have been paid.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman
Stehman to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
2. Ordinance Providing for the Purchase of a Whelen Solar Powered Electronic
Warning Siren
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
Fire Chief Kevin Edmond advised the ordinance would authorize the purchase of a Whelen Solar
Powered Warning Siren. Currently, there are 19 sirens in the City and they range from 2 to over 30
years old. These sirens have an average life expectancy of 25-30 years. He further advised the siren
that is being replaced is 35 years old. This purchase was included in the CIP and is $8,650 below
budget.
Councilman Brombolich inquired of the age of the other sirens and Chief Edmond advised there are 5
others that are over 30 years old. He also advised these 5 sirens are slated to be replaced in the next
few years.
Councilman Jerome inquired of concerns regarding the sirens being solar powered. Chief Edmond
knew of no issues regarding the solar powered sirens and advised they are warrantied. City Manager
Bair further advised solar powered sirens are an industry standard with a life expectancy of 25 years.
Mayor Miller reminded the public that all the sirens are tested on the first Tuesday of each month at
10:00 am.
A motion was made by Councilman Brombolich, seconded by Councilman
Green to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
3. Ordinance Authorizing the Purchase of a 2017 Chevy Equinox LT from Jack
Schmitt Chevrolet
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
Police Chief Steve Evans explained that the Collinsville Police Department has an officer assigned to
the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force Unit. An intergovernmental agreement requires that
the City provides the officer with the vehicle. Currently, the DEA officer is driving a seized Jeep
Cherokee with over 160,000 miles. The task force unit provided specifications for a suitable
replacement vehicle.
He advised 1 bid was received and opened on May 15 for the purchase of a 2017 Chevrolet Equinox
LT from Jack Schmitt in the amount of $29,687.15. Funding for this vehicle is provided for through
the State Forfeiture Fund.
A motion was made by Councilman Stehman, seconded by Councilman
Brombolich to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
4. Ordinance Authorizing the Mayor to Sign an Agreement with the Illinois
Department of Revenue for Alcoholic Liquor Enforcement Pilot Program
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
Agreement
Overview by City Clerk Wasser, who advised this ordinance authorizes an agreement between the
City and the Department of Revenue (IDOR) for the participation in the Liquor Enforcement Program.
She gave brief summary of the program indicating a team of 3 employees (one from each department -
Fire, Police and Building) will conduct inspections at each establishment that holds a Collinsville Liquor
License. The inspections are done on behalf of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC). The
team approach allows the employees to address other issues such as Life Safety and code violations.
IDOR will reimburse the City $75 for each inspection. She further advised the City recently
participated in this program and this ordinance renews the contract for the upcoming fiscal year.
Councilman Jerome inquired as to how much the inspections cost the City. Clerk Wasser explained
the expenses are minimal as all inspections are done during work hours and not on overtime. She
advised inspections take approximately 30-45 minutes each and there are 59 establishments. He
inquired of potential issues if the City decides not to participate in the program to which she advised
inspections would most likely not be done. She further advised many establishments had not been
inspected for the past 2 years since cut backs were done at the state level. The pilot program was
established to assist the state with this issue and if the City does not participate inspections will most
likely not occur.
City Manager Bair advised the program has been successful and the City is compensated for the
inspections. The program allows for access into the business to check for liquor issues as well as
code violations. The reimbursement amount facilitates the program, services, and allows for a visual
inspection of the establishments to verify they are compliant with various aspects. Feedback has been
positive and owners have been welcoming.
Mayor Miller spoke of the positive impact the face-to-face interaction between the City and business
owners has. Councilman Brombolich recalled the infrequent state inspections. Mayor Miller
confirmed that state inspections were complaint driven.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman
Stehman to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
5. Ordinance Approving Collective Bargaining Agreement with the International
Union of Operating Engineers Local 520C
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
Proposed Local 520C Contract May 23, 2017-December 31, 2019
Local 520C Contract May 1, 2016-December 31, 2016
City Manager Bair gave the following overview. He advised this ordinance is the first of many
regarding collective bargaining agreements with the unions. This specific ordinance is the agreement
with employees in the Public Works Department (Streets, Water Lines, and Sewer Lines). The
agreement has a new hire package with base raise reduction of 20%. He clarified the agenda item
report which indicates an 80% base raise reduction. He explained they are reduced 20%, not 80%.
They are hired at 80% of the base rate. The agreement eliminates longevity and has a maximum
vacation accrual cap at 3 weeks for new hire employees only. He advised the contract has been
ratified by Local 520C.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman
Brombolich to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
N. Old Business
O. Closed Session
Mayor Miller asked for a motion to proceed into closed session to discuss in accordance with 5 ILCS
120/2(c):
1. Appointment, employment, compensation, discipline or performance of employees.
2. Collective bargaining.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman
Brombolich to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
P. Announcements
Q. Adjournment
A motion was made by Councilman Stehman, seconded by Councilman
Jerome to adjourn at 8:42 pm. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Brombolich, Green, Jerome, Stehman, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
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