City of Collinsville City Council met June 12.
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, Corporate Counsel Steve Giacoletto, and City Clerk Kim
Wasser.
Present: 5 - Councilman Donna Green, Councilman David Jerome, Councilman
Jeff Stehman, Councilman Cheryl Brombolich, and Mayor John Miller
Absent: 0
C. Invocation
Delivered by Pastor Myles Holmes of Revive Church.
D. Pledge of Allegiance
Recited.
E. Proclamations/Recognition/Presentations
F. Business Prior to Public Input
Mayor Miller spoke of the new trash automation service that is forthcoming. A video was displayed
explaining the service.
G. Council Discussion
H. Speakers from the Floor
Karen McReynolds spoke of her previous requests for information. She spoke of pain medication.
She mentioned the purchase of Grizzlies tickets and expenditures. She referred to statements made
regarding McLanahan's Towing. She inquired of an expenditure to Keller Farms for sludge removal.
Phil Astrauskas asked Councilmembers for their thoughts of increasing the size of the City Council
members. He mentioned City expenditures. He mentioned an economic crisis that occurred. He
spoke of property taxes. He mentioned the sewer system and street repairs. He inquired of the
master plan success. He inquired of Sloan's Pub TIF reimbursement.
Mary Drumm mentioned the Crime Free Landlord program. She spoke of a recent crime that
occurred at Walmart. She inquired of additional security measures.
Don Konce spoke of an agenda item regarding the sale of a radar trailer. He offered to purchase the
radar trailer for $125. He suggested Council not to approve the sale of the radar trailer.
I. Comments & Announcements - Mayor
Mayor Miller spoke of the 100th anniversary celebration of Scott Air Force Base.
J. Comments & Announcements - Council Members
Councilman Stehman spoke of the situation involving the Collinsville Area Recreation District (CARD)
regarding City parks. He mentioned a newspaper article which spoke of Maryville trying to remove
neighborhoods from the park district. He spoke of the Council's concern. He reference comments by
Collinsville Extreme Baseball and Softball Club regarding problems with ball fields as well as
comments regarding conditions of parks. He mentioned the City (City Manager and Corporate
Counsel) has met with CARD representatives regarding issues and options. He summarized the
situation by explaining the City of Collinsville owns the parks but they are leased to CARD. The lease
was part of the park district agreement when established. The parks are to be maintained by CARD.
However, they (CARD) has said they will do no other maintenance to the parks other than cut the
grass. He explained that the City offered to take the parks back along with tax revenue to maintain
them. CARD is willing to give the parks back to the City but no relinquish tax funds to cover the cost
of maintenance. He mentioned the recreational opportunities and compared our fields to others in the
area. He explained the City has exhausted every effort to work towards a volunteer agreement with
CARD. He spoke of the deteriorating beams on pavilions and other code issues. He asked for Code
Enforcement to assess the parks for issues and potential hazards. He explained the City of Collinsville
needs to take ownership of the parks. He spoke of the park districts disservice to the City. He
mentioned the debt.
City Manager Bair advised the City has been meeting with CARD to address problems but ended
with little progress. He advised the City's goal is different than that of Maryville as we (City of
Collinsville) is concerned with how it impacts all the residents. The City's goal was to drop the levy
and have CARD lower their levy due to operational savings by the City. However, CARD wants to
keep their levy at the same amount. The City does not have a budget for parks and recreation.
CARD expresses no interest in offering funds to help offset maintenance expenses. He advised that
CARDS was started in 1991 and took over City owned parks only. This does not include
Willoughby Farms, Splash City, Arlington, Pleasant Ridge or Schnucks parks as these facilities are
owned by CARD. He further advised the board (CARD) overtly stated they only put funds in
properties they own. He also advised that if Maryville is successful in their efforts to remove
themselves from the park district this would lower CARDS funding levels. He spoke of various
options presented to CARD to no avail. CARD is only willing to give the city owned parks back to
the City and minimal equipment only. City Manager Bair indicated the City has attempted to negotiate
with CARD in good faith.
Councilman Brombolich indicated that half of the tax rate that CARD is charging goes towards their
debt. City Manager Bair clarified that it is actually 60% for debt services and 40% for operating
expenses. She then clarified that the City proposed that they give the 40% to the City to maintain the
parks but CARD refused. They want to give the parks back to the City but keep all the tax revenue
thereby making the City to either increase property taxes or instill a tax to maintain the parks. She
spoke of the double taxing issue this would cause for parks. She mentioned the poor condition of
Woodland Park. She also spoke of the conditions of the softball fields and several private
organizations who help maintain it. She agreed the City has attempted to negotiate with CARD to no
avail and inquired of the next step.
Councilman Stehman asked Corporate Counsel and/or City Manager to report back to Council with
regards to the next step or other options. He too spoke of the poor conditions of the ball fields.
Mayor Miller indicated the first several years of the agreement with CARD went well with no issues
but at some point in time they reallocated funds from the parks. He mentioned various options and
previous meetings with CARD representatives.
K. Comments & Announcements - City Staff
City Manager Bair reminded the public to watch for trash automation flier to be mailed out for service
dates. He gave an update on the utility tax rebate program. He advised there were 320 rebates
claims for a total amount of $16,221 (average $50.69 each). He mentioned the Grizzlies expenditure
was a deposit that will be reimbursed. He explained the contract with Keller Farms is for the removal
of sludge from the wastewater treatment plant. Councilman Brombolich clarified the comment made
was referring to equipment purchased for lime sludge removal from the water plant while Keller
removes sludge from the sewer plant. City Manager Bair concurred and explain that these are
different operations. He mentioned a detailed Capital Improvement Projects discussion is slated for
the July 10 meeting. He addressed the Sloan's TIF funds question and indicated they have not been
paid in full. He further explained that Walmart is not within a TIF district but rather a business district.
He asked Chief Evans to address the concern of crime at Walmart.
Police Chief Evans clarified that the Police Department is not acceptant of any level of criminal activity.
He indicated a violate crime did occur and a press release was done. However, such press release
will generate various comments on social media. He gave a brief summary of criminal activity (other
than shoplifting)that occurred in the Collinsville Crossing shopping area which included 3 in the last 2
years. He mentioned various crimes that are indigenous to the environment (shopping centers,
interstate and close proximity to the St. Louis). He clarified that Collinsville does not have a violent
crime problem. He spoke of the Uniform Crime Report statistics that are based on facts. These
reports indicates the City has a lower violent crime rate than years past. He mentioned Walmart's
aggressive approach towards shoplifters. He addressed a previous report of a carjacking which was
unfounded. City Manager Bair elaborated on the proactive relationship between Walmart's security
and the Collinsville Police Department to minimize theft. Chief Evans reminded the public to use the
same caution as they would at any store in any town.
City Manager Bair spoke of the methods to dispose of surplus property like that of the radar trailer.
City Clerk Wasser explained that placing an ad in the paper advertising for bids cost $90-$100.
Chief Evans further explained that the company they purchased the new radar unit from would not
accept it as a trade. City Manager Bair clarified the procedure meets financial policies.
Councilman Jerome apologized for not giving comments earlier as he thought the Mayor was asking
for comments regarding the CARD issue. Councilman Jerome addressed Ms. McReynolds' remarks
regarding potential liability for over-the-counter medications. He explained that it is an assumption of
risk and not a liability. He indicated Council approved the purchase of Aleve and not dispersement
methods. He mentioned that he may be in favor of increasing the City Council member size but spoke
of the difficulty of finding participants. He also mentioned the master plan and sewer system. He
spoke of repairs but indicated a balanced approach is necessary with available funds. He spoke of
the Street Department's priority list for repairs. He addressed the question of recusing himself of TIF
expenditure for Sloan's and indicated he would have to excuse himself from many of the applications
as he enjoys visiting the various businesses in town. He also spoke of a visit he and Councilman
Green had with the school district. They would like to continue an ongoing dialogue in order to
establish a positive relationship between the City and the school district.
Councilman Green indicated she too had comments. She indicated she is in agreement with increasing
the Council size; however, a remodel of the Chambers would be necessary to accommodate. She
spoke of her endeavors to showcase the community and mentioned the Collinsville Community
Collaboration (C3) event. She spoke of her previous statement regarding her property taxes. She
indicated she was aware of the economic downfall but was advised her property value diminished
because of the area.
L. Consent Agenda
City Clerk Wasser read the Consent Agenda.
Councilman Jerome asked for clarification on the hotel and air fare bill of April 28 to ILACP. City
Manager Bair advised the expense was for professional training to a conference. He further advised
such expenditures are preapprove and within each departments budget. Finance Director Tamara
Ammann advised the expenditure was for employee Gary Scaggs, who attended the FBI Academy.
Chief Evans explained that past practices allows for one trip home and back during the FBI Academy
training time period.
Mayor Miller explained that the computer software used for bills only allows for 13 characters to
describe an expenditure.
1. Motion to Approve Payment of Bills for the Period Ending June 2, 2017 in the
Amount of $571,767.07
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Board List 05-18-17
Board List 05-19-17
Board List 05-26-17
Board List 06-02-17
2. Motion to Approve Payroll for the Period Ending May 19, 2017 in the
Amount of $528,292.21
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Board List 05-19-17
3. Motion to Approve Minutes of the May 22, 2017 Meeting
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
052217RegMtg.pdf
4. Resolution Appointing A Member of the Collinsville Economic Development
Commission (Linda Allan)
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Resolution
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 Jerome, seconded
by Councilman Brombolich, to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, 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
Finance Director Ammann gave the following overview. She advised the ordinance authorizes a
settlement in the amount of $26,500 to Timothy Rainey, who was injured on March 28, 2015 while
moving a hose, April 24, 2015 while searching for a fire and April 25, 2015 while performing forcible
entry. All medical expenses and temporary disability benefits have been paid. Captain Rainey has
returned to work.
Councilman Jerome explained that this is an accurate award should the case have been tried in court.
A settlement agreement closes out the future medical provision and right to reopen.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman
Stehman to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
2. Ordinance Authorizing the Director of Finance to sign a Water Bill Agreement
with St. Clair County Community Action Agency
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
St. Clair County Community Action Agency.pdf
Finance Director Ammann explained that the Finance Dept. refers citizens to assistance programs to
help with delinquent water bills. The Collinsville Township often assist with these bills as long as funds
are available. The St. Clair County program is grant funded for our residents who live within the St.
Clair County portion of Collinsville. The program is new and will continue through December 29,
2017 or until funding exhausted, whichever comes first.
Councilman Jerome inquired if Madison County has a similar program to which Director Ammann was
not aware of such. She advised they refer citizens to the Salvation Army and/or Ministerial Alliance
for assistance.
A motion was made by Councilman Brombolich, seconded by Councilman
Green to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
3. Ordinance Authorizing the Purchase of a 2017 Ford Taurus SE from
Landmark Ford
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
Landmark Ford State Bid
Police Chief Evans gave the following overview. He advised the ordinance allows for the purchase of
a 2017 Ford Taurus from Landmark Ford in the amount of $17,621. The vehicle will be assigned to
a detective. This vehicle replaces a 2008 Ford Taurus, which will remain in the Police Dept. fleet for
utility purposes. Funds for the purchase will come from the Police Vehicle Fund which is derived from
ticket fines. He further advised of the request to waive purchasing procedures and rely on a State Bid.
Mayor Miller explained the State Bid program.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman
Brombolich to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
4. Ordinance Establishing a Prevailing Wage
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
2017 Prevail Wage Madison.pdf
2017 Prevail Wage St Clair.pdf
City Clerk Wasser explained that per State Statute, the City is required to adopt the most recent
prevailing wage rates. The Illinois Department of Labor amended the rates on June 5. These wage
rates are established for each county and are required to be paid for any outsourced/contractual public
works projects. Rates do not dictate employee wages. City Manager Bair clarified that this item will
fall under the Consent Agenda in the future since it is required by statute.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman
Stehman to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
5. Resolution Requesting Permission from the Illinois Department of
Transportation to Close Main Street for Smokin' on Main Event
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Resolution
Overview by City Clerk Wasser, who explained the resolution is to ask for permission from IDOT to
close a portion of Main St. for a new annual event, Smokin' on Main. This event is hosted by Code 3
Spices and will feature BBQ competition and festival. Event is scheduled for July 29-30.
Mayor Miller elaborated on the event which will include 35-40 professional BBQ teams and 30
backyard teams competitive purposes. Vendors will be on site selling BBQ.
Councilman Brombolich inquired of an application and insurance requirements. City Clerk Wasser
confirmed they have submitted the required applications and insurance.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman Green
to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
6. Ordinance Authorizing the Sale of Personal Property Owned by the City
(2001 Kustom Signal Radar Trailer)
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
City Clerk Wasser informed Council that the Police Dept. purchased a Stalker radar trailer in 2016.
This unit replaced the 2001 Kustom Signal Radar Trailer. She indicated the replacement was
necessary due to the age of the unit, repairs and lack of parts, obsolete technology and minimum solar
power storage. She advised the unit has scrap value only and was not wanted as a trade-in. This
ordinance declares the item as surplus and allows for the sale to Municipal Electronics in the amount of
$100. She further explained that a public notice to accept bids is approximately $100. The police
lieutenant solicited the sale to several companies and Municipal Electronics was the only one who
showed interest.
Councilman Jerome inquired if the City has a contract with Municipal Electronics for the sale to which
she indicated she was not aware of a contract. He further asked if the item could be sold to Mr.
Koonce in the amount of $125. Clerk Wasser indicated that is not necessarily the proper procedure.
Councilman Brombolich elaborated on the issue as it was a responsibility of her employment with the
City for 30 years. She mentioned the aggravation of trying to get rid of various outdated items (cell
phones, laptops, etc). She indicated an ad in the paper is not necessary but could put it on the
website. The Police Dept. had used eBay in the past. She further advised the procedure has to be
done in an official manner and not that of an oral auction. She further inquired if the City could ask for
bids via the website in lieu of publishing a bid notice and Corporate Counsel Steve Giacoletto
indicated Council could authorize such. Clerk Wasser advised staff is looking into online auction sites.
City Manager Bair suggested amended the ordinance to declare it surplus. Councilman Brombolich
agreed and allow for staff to bid or auction the item. Mayor Miller also agreed.
Councilman Stehman made a motion to amend the ordinance authorizing the item to be declared as
surplus, seconded by Councilman Brombolich. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
A motion was made by Councilman Stehman, seconded by Councilman
Brombolich to approve as amended (declaring the item as surplus). The
motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
7. Ordinance Approving Collective Bargaining Agreement with International
Union of Operating Engineers Local 148 (Water Plant)
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
Local 148 Water Plant Agt 2017-2018.pdf
Overview by City Manager Bair, who advised this contract represents Local 148 (Water Plant) and is
similar to the previously approved contract for Local 520C. The contract includes a new hire
package which reduced base wages for the first 4 years, eliminates longevity pay for new hires, and
allows for a maximum vacation accrual cap at 3 weeks. In exchange, this allows for a 4% wage
increase which is not retroactive.
A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman
Brombolich to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
8. Ordinance Approving Collective Bargaining Agreement with the International
Union of Operating Engineers Local 148B (City Hall)
Attachments: Agenda Item Report
Ordinance
Local 148B City Hall Agt 2017-2019.pdf
City Manager Bair advised this item is similar to the last agenda item but this contract is for Local
148B, known as our City Hall Finance Dept. employees. This contract, as well as the other, will
come due December 31, 2019. This contract consists of the same new hire package and the Fire
Dept. Secretary is removed from the union and replaced with an Account Technician.
A motion was made by Councilman Brombolich, seconded by Councilman
Jerome to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
N. Old Business
O. Closed Session
P. Announcements
Q. Adjournment
A motion was made by Councilman Green, seconded by Councilman Stehman
to adjourn at 8:26pm. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Green, Jerome, Stehman, Brombolich, and Miller
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0
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