City of Belleville City Council met Sept. 21.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
Mayor Eckert called this meeting to order.
City Clerk Meyer called roll. Members present on roll call: Alderman Kinsella, Alderman Hazel, Alderwoman Duco, Alderman Puss, Alderman Randle, Alderman Ferguson, Alderman Anthony, Alderman Ovian, Alderman Dintelman, Alderwoman Schaefer, Alderwoman Stiehl, Alderman Rothweiler, Alderman Elmore, Alderman Weygandt, Alderman Wigginton, Alderman Barfield.
ROLL CALL DEPARTMENT HEADS
Roll Call Department Heads: Mayor Eckert; City Clerk, Jennifer Gain Meyer; City Treasurer, Dean Hardt; City Attorney Hoemer, Police Chief, Bill Clay; Fire Chief, Tom Pour; Director of Finance, Jamie Maitret; Director of Maintenance, Ken Vaughn; Director of Wastewater, Randy Smith; Director of Residential and Commercial Development Services, Annissa McCaskill;
Director of Library, Leander Spearman; Director of IT, Scott Markovich; City Engineer, Michael Velloff;HumanResourceManager,Emma Qualls.
Director ofPublic Works, Jason Poole excused.
PLEDGE
Mayor Ecker led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Laura Blaes
Ms. Blaes advised she has worked in the library system for the past 30 plus years and the Belleville Public Library since 2015. She is one of the staff members under discussion tonight. She is concerned with what the loss of her job will mean to her, mostly financially. Your job is to do what is right for the City of Belleville and its people. She believes the library should remain fully staffed. The eight union employees who are being subjected to layoffs tonight represent 33% of the library staff, 1/ 3 of the staff is subjected to be cut. Yes, they are all part- timers; however, they provide the support and backup, so all library employees have flexibility, have time to assist people and provide patrons the one- on-one help they deserve. For everyone to stay safe for the foreseeable future their services will be provided behind plastic glass, masks, over the phone or curb side with the barrier of a vehicle.
Serving the community will not get easier. She sees it becoming more challenging and requiring more time, patience, diligence and effort. You will do this with fewer staff? This does not add up. St. Clair County has re-opened for patrons to come into their building. She wonders why the City' s Library Administration has not managed for the Belleville Public Library to lead the way in this community and open its doors.
She knows the City Council does not want the library to be one of the last in the County to open. They should have been one of the first. How management wants to cut staff is a dangerous, slippery slope when any library services are cut. It becomes easier to make the next cut and the next until your library is a place no one wants to be or can' t be.
In the end, she trusts City Council to consider solutions that will make all of life, all of Belleville stronger and tonight especially treat the library strong.
Linda Mayer, President of Friends of the Library
The library needs to open as soon as possible. Primarily she is concerned with the people that need to use the computers to search for a job. The pandemic has made many people lose their employment and they need to use the computers. Other libraries have the computers usable by spacing them in the library and placing a silicone cover over the keyboard which can be disinfected after each use.
Becky Klein. President of AFSCME Local 1765
Mayor Eckert, since the beginning of Phase IV the library has been able to provide curb side pickup. Because the library is seemingly unwilling to meaningfully move forward, they are not only losing staff but many patrons as well. Furthermore, Mr. Spearman has told staff they will not be opening the doors this year. He claims he will not make his staff limited and most libraries in the area are closed. This is grossly inaccurate. She has been able to walk into half of the libraries in the last week and they have been open since June. She engaged with their directors to see the steps they took to be open to the public, safety and what their next step will be.
These libraries are following the basic principles of mask wearing, hand washing, providing hand sanitation stations at the front door, social distancing and wiping down surfaces regularly. They have plexiglass and partitions in place to keep staff safe.
If the directors were able to talk to her directly as the union representative they will readily engage with the director, board or any other party governing the Belleville Public Library. One of her best conversations she had with a director focused on the staff and knowing what their people do. This pandemic only emphasizes those needs.
The patrons need computer access as they find themselves unemployed. Parents need to be able to quickly obtain materials for their child' s remote learning. If patrons can go grocery shopping in person, they should be able picking out all materials assuming the same risk. Instead, the focus has been misplaced on the importance of services that are not useful to the community.
With a million-dollar budget the patrons deserve more than a locked-up library with its employees lurking around in the dark. She does not know of any business that has been able to profit off not offering what the public needs. The public, all employees of the library, Leander Spearman and certainly the eight ( 8) employees being laid off tonight need the library to be successful. Our union demands it and will use means at their disposal to obtain it.
Christina Deboer
The library provides vital services to taxpayers. Other libraries have found a way to bring back their staff and provide these services. Now more than ever these services are important to the taxpayers, as the ongoing pandemic creates uncertainty in all our lives. Practical services such as computer access and internet service allow people to reach out to family and friends they may not otherwise get to talk to or see and to search for jobs many people have lost during this crisis.
The books and other forms of entertainment loaned out by the library provide an escape from the stresses everyone is facing. While it may be impossible for things to return to the normal, we all know, other libraries have found ways to expand these necessary services to their constituents.
She feels it' stime for the Belleville Public Library to follow in their footsteps and find a way to service the taxpayers of Belleville in away that will truly make adifference.
Joy Neil
She is a client with a storage facility in Belleville, Royal Heights Storage. She was notified Belleville is wanting to put a tax on Belleville during the pandemic, people losing their jobs. A lot of parents can' t figure out how to put food on the table let alone hiking up prices for storage fees.
Katie Geries
She is a part time employee at the West Branch Public Library. She stated the library needs to be back open. Belleville has many poor and elderly taxpayers who cannot afford computers.
Many of these patrons come to the library to use the computers. They need assistance in job hunting, unemployment services, staff and other government services. The library also has a steady flow of people that use the copy/fax machines. Many of them require assistance to complete their task.
Some patrons come into the library for a place of safety and comfort. She feels the library staff has made a difference in many health that have mental and emotional issues. Many of these people have little contact with other people. Belleville residents need their support to get through this. they know the employees names and the employees know their names. Belleville residents pay a specific tax for the library. They deserve to have their money managed for that exact purpose. Other local libraries have opened... why can' t Belleville' s libraries open.
AlexErb,GatewayStora¢eMall
He owns three storage facilities in the City of Belleville. He asked the aldermen to vote no on the tax hike. You have heard from other storage tenants, constituents regarding the library and other services that everyone is in a tough spot and putting more added pressure on the tenants will hurt them and put them at an unfair advantage at a time of need. Several tenants are living month-to-mouth on their paycheck and not just because of COVID. With a tax hike the current renters will move out to other communities.
We have a family business in Belleville. We have invested money in this facility.
Trent Overhue
He was recently up for a vote to put in a self-storage facility in a vacant retail space ( former grocery store). Looking to put a business in the community where he had several meetings with staff, and this was not mentioned until the last discussion took place. This is not the time to impose a sales tax. The rents are dropping due to the economy and the delinquencies are rising due to job loss etc.
The taxes over the last decade on self-storage have consistently raised and are at an all-time hire. Anyone that needs a storage unit needs help and this tax should be tabled. Let' s not add pressure on folks on the community and business owners. This type of business is family owned there are only a couple national companies. This puts a strain on communities when it wasn't originally budgeted.
Linda Deboer
Calling to support the library. She thanked City Council because she knows they have a nightmare job. She loves the City of Belleville and wants to see it promoted. She would like Belleville to take the lead instead of following others.
Dan Crockett
With the pandemic and limitations with traditional resources such as schools and having access to the library is utmost importance. It is unfortunate the library had to be closed due to the pandemic. Listening to employees there doesn't seem to be a lack of interest to open the library it seems to be more of the City wanting to keep them closed and not providing justification other than fiduciary concern.
Michael Haebere
He has heard no estimate of about the amount ofrevenue this sales tax will generate. There also been no discussion as to cost to the City of the monthly collection posting and reporting of the He has heard no estimate of about the amount ofrevenue this sales tax will generate. There also obligations of additional employees. How will compliance be monitored. Will this also require additional employees. It seems the City is spending $ 70k- to collect $ 40k in tax revenue.
Nobody really knows. There needs to be a study done before blindly proceeding with this new sales tax.
Joanie Schaefer, Illinois Self-Storaee Association
She lives local; however, one block out of the city limits. She and her husband purchased their self-storage facility in Belleville. She heard there are too many facilities in Belleville. A smart businesswoman or businessman will do his/her homework and analysis and will not build when a city has reached its saturation point for storage. Good business owners will not open where a facility is not needed.
Right now, self-storage facilities do pay sales tax in two areas ( 1) products they sell including moving boxes, locks, gloves, moving dollies and packing supplies; ( 2) unattended consequences of the Statewide law targeting Chicago parking lots. These facilities now pay 9% sales tax on vehicle storage.
Belleville does need to be business friendly so business will choose Belleville as home. This proposal sends the opposite message to the future endeavors to the potential business owners seeing the rules detrimentally changing on current businesses which have already committed to Belleville. This hurts the City ofBelleville as well. She asks to vote no on the proposal.
PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS& APPOINTMENTS
Alderwoman Schaefer made a motion seconded by Alderman Ferguson to approve the following reappointments:
Reappointment of Lynn Clapp to serve a 2-year term on the Human Relations Commission.
Reappointment ofErin Connor to serve a 3- year tens on the Human Relations Commission.
Reappointment of Pam Fetters to serve a 2-year term on the Human Relations Commission.
Reappointment of Ramona Johnson to serve a 3- year term on the Human Relations Commission.
Reappointment of Dee Dee Nowak to serve a 2-year term on the Human Relations Commission.
Reappointment of Rose Wilson to serve a 2-year tern on the Human Relations Commission.
Members voting aye on roll call: Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield. (16) Alderwoman Schaefer made a motion seconded by Alderman Pusa to approve the appointment of Tom Bell to serve a 4- year term on the Electrical Commission, in the capacity of a consumer member of the general public.
Members voting aye on roll call: Hazel, Duco, Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella. (16)
PUBLIC HEARING
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Alderman Wigginton made a motion seconded by Alderwoman Schaefer to approve City Council Meeting Minutes— September 8, 2020.
Members voting aye on roll call: Duco, Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Haul. (16)
CLAIMS, PAYROLL AND DISBURSEMENTS
Alderman Anthony made a motion seconded by Alderwoman Stiehl to approve claims and disbursements in the amount of$1, 262,952.70 and payroll in the amount of$805,297. 47. Members voting aye on roll call: Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Haul, Duco. ( 16)
REPORTS
ORAL REPORTS
TRAFFIC
Alderman Ovian made a motion seconded by Alderman Elmore to approve the following motions:
Motion to approve No Parking on both sides of street for first block of South Delaware from East Main Street to the end ofthe block.
Motion to approve one ( 1) Persons with Disabilities Parking space in front of 300 N. Charles Street( VFW Post 1739).
Motion to table to convert Abend Street to a one-way street south from Mascoutah Avenue to Garfield Street.
Motion to approve three ( 3) puking spaces ( Curbside Pick-Up) in Public Parking Lots at
Main Library, 121 East Washington Street, southeast comer of parking lot, and two (2) parking spaces at West Branch Library, 3414 West Main Street, northeast corner of parking lot near alley
Members voting aye on roll call: Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Pusa. ( 16)
ADMINISTRATION
Alderman Hazel made a motion seconded by Alderwoman Schaefer to approve a Sales Proposal with SpectrumVoll' in the amount of $3, 159.48 monthly for a new City phone system. A thirty(30) day trial period will be implemented prior to authorizing the proposal.
Discussion.
IT Director, Scott Markovich, advised Verizon has not been able to support or maintain the service that is necessary at workstations; including, City Hall, receptionist area and police dispatch. Verizon has been unable to correct for us and has forced us in a position to research a new phone company and this one has provided the greatest number of services, the best quality and best price.
Alderman Ovian advised he recently purchased a new Apple Whone from Spectrum and the service provider is Verizon will this be a problem for the City; IT Director, Scott Markovich, stated the Spectrum VoIP that is listed on the agenda is not affiliated with Charter Spectrum in the Midwest.
Members voting aye on roll call: Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Pusa, Randle. ( 16)
Alderman Ferguson made a motion seconded by Alderman Ovian to cancel the Downtown Halloween Trick-or-Treat event approved by Council on March 2, 2020 pursuant to Section 111. 065(A)(2) of the City' s Revised Code of Ordinances, in order to avoid imperiling or materially endangering the public health, morals, safety or welfare based upon the ongoing COVID- 19 pandemic.
Discussion.
Alderman Randle asked if there are plans to cancel trick or treat across the City; Mayor Eckert advised the City does not have that authority.
Members voting aye on roll call: Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Puss, Randle, Ferguson. ( 16)
Alderwoman Schaefer made motion seconded by Alderman Ferguson to approve Records Disposal Certificate dated August 7, 2020 for various City offices and Treasurer' s Office.
Members voting aye on roll call: Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Puss, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony. ( 16)
STREETS& GRADES
Alderman Wigginton made a motion seconded by Alderman Dintelman to approve the following motions:
Motion to approve Sonnenberg Asphalt Co. Inc., ( waiving bidding procedures) to seal City Parking Lots located at 10" and W. Main, 14' and W. Main, 407 E. Lincoln, 510-512 W. Main and City Hall, in the approximate amount of$23,434.00.
Motion to approve 651' Street Easement Upgrade Requested by Ameren Illinois for 12,625. 00( Easement No. 8.01).
Motion to approve 170 Street Easement Upgrade Requested by Ameren Illinois for 500.00( Easement No. 96.01).
Motion to approve 1T" Street Easement Upgrade Requested by Ameren Illinois for 500.00( Easement No. 100.01).
Motion to approve 17' Street Easement Upgrade Requested by Ameren Illinois for 500. 00( Easement No. 107. 01).
Motion to approve 65'" Street Easement Upgrade Requested by Ameren Illinois for 9,250. 00( Easement No. 46. 01).
Motion to approve 65'° Street Easement Upgrade Requested by Ameren Illinois for 16, 225.00( Easement No. 10.01).
Motion to approve 65" Street Easement Upgrade Requested by Ameren Illinois for 11, 050.00 (Easement No. 55. 02).
Motion to approve 65" Street Easement Expansion Requested by Ameren Illinois for 550.00 (Easement No. 59.01).
Members voting aye on roll call: Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Puss, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian. (16)
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT& ANNEXATION
Alderman Kinsella made a motion seconded by Alderman Ferguson to approve the following motions:
Motion to approve a development agreement with McCullough' s Flooring Enterprise, Inc. for the remodeling and expansion of the existing facility located at 4400 North Belt West.
Motion to approve an amended development agreement with Women World of Beauty W.W.O.B), LLC for the remodeling of the existing facility located at 7306 Westfield Plaza. ( Note: The sole amendment to the agreement is an extension of the project completion date to August 31, 2021.)
Members voting aye on roll call: Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Puss, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman. ( 16)
BOARD OF FIRE & POLICE COMMISSION
Alderman Anthony made a motion seconded by Alderwoman Duco to approve rehiring two former police officers; Britmey Newport ( last date on payroll July 1, 2020) and Jacob Fowler last date on payroll May 12, 2020) as lateral entry employees effective Tuesday, September 22, 2020 at 12: 01 am.
Discussion.
Alderman Randle asked with the addition of two officers coming on back on board what will our total number of employed officers be; Chief Clay advised 73.
Members voting aye on roll call: Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duca, Puss, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer. ( 16)
ORDINANCE & LEGAL REVIEW
Alderman Wigginton made a motion seconded by Alderman Rothweiler to consider an Ordinance Amending Chapter 34 ( Taxation) by adding Section 34.048 ( Self-Service Storage Facility Accommodations Tax) ( no recommendation from Ordinance & Legal Review Committee).
Discussion.
Alderman Rothweiler
Alderman Rothweiler advised he supports this ordinance and motion to establish a small tax on storage facilities, etc. He is generally opposed to taxes and fees. nobody likes taxes. he has received no phones requesting a tax to be placed. Fairness: storage facilities require police and fire protection like any other business in Belleville whether it' s downtown, Belleville Crossing, Target, Wal-Mart etc. These things cost money. Our businesses downtown pay sales tax. He is sure other businesses would like to pay no sales tax, but they do. As an addition to their property taxes which they pay, and storage facilities also pay.
As a matter of fairness have storage facilities pay a tax just like everyone else is a matter of necessity. As you just heard Chief Clay say we are down to 73 officers and will be hiring more.
The City is authorized to have 84 police officers. We have had a declining sales tax. Ifyou look at the figures our sales tax have continued to decrease. Storage is not a necessity. There is never a good time to impose a fee. To replace virtually a minuscule amount of sales tax generated previously by Shop n Save, Wal- Mart on Carlyle. Those sales taxes are gone.
Belleville has a great number of storage units and the market will decide the amount of storage units that should be in a community. A small tax is not an issue in terms of a necessity item while storage is important to some it is not an item necessary to live. As a result, to that there will never be a good time. now is the time. We have lost a significant amount of sales tax revenue, COVID-19 has hit us extremely hard. Our library employees that are to be laid off can
attest.
Alderman Rothweiler urges it' s support $2. 00 on some and $ 5. 00 on other units. This is a fee to increase revenue. His expectation is this revenue will be used to increase public safety to ensure we have a police department that is able to respond to the needs of the community and address the crime issues in the community. Without it we are starving the public safety of police/ fire departments.
Alderman Ovian
Alderman Ovian would like to propose to table this motion tonight. Two years ago, he put forth an effort and went to four (4) communities Mascoutah, O' Fallon, Fairview Heights and Edwardsville and received copies of their fee structure. He then compared to what the City of Belleville charges. We are severely undervalued on our fees. He was told we would do a comparison and it has never been discussed.
Alderwoman Schaefer
Alderwoman Schaefer stated she would like to see this item tabled. How many storage facilities are in the city limits; how much revenue will this bring; how and who will keep track of payments; will they be charged for all units occupied/unoccupied; what is the sales tax revenue of product currently being sold? There are too many unanswered questions before moving forward.
Alderman Hazel
Alderman Hazel stated we do need to know the number of units and percentage of those that are rented. We need to establish a benchmark for later down the road when we receive complaints for loss of business, we have something to compare to. There never is a good time to establish a new tax; however, there is a bad time. During this time during COVID our citizens and families are undergoing loss of employment. Storage units are a necessity and it is very real to use during this time.
The storage facilities are being addressed that you can look at; however, we have not put this into action, and he does not want to put this into action to find out what the unintended consequences are later. What about if someone is renting out their neighbors' garage to store their vehicles; what about someone renting office space for storage; what about warehousing; what about renting lockers in bowling alleys and the post office ( private shipping companies that rent mailboxes), parking stickers for a college to come to town. Storage lockers inside of a gym.
There is a lot to consider and we are rushing this at a bad time. More research needs to be done.
Alderman Randle
Alderman Randle stated several questions being raised by the Aldermen in many cases are being addressed in terms of collections that the City Treasurer' s office will be able to undertake much in the same way as hotel/ motel taxes. If folks would read the ordinance several questions Alderman Hazel had would be cleared up as well.
Alderman Randle stated the owners of the storage facilities expected their investment to provide both significant capital appreciation as well as cash flow. The anticipated increase in the project value is relative to several factors but mostly tied to increase on the total building and land cost upon completion. Another significant factor would be the projected quarterly cash flow. Not to be forgotten is location. With respect to the remedies these places might be able to generate we don' t have a clue, nor do we have any information from any retailer regarding specific sales taxes that they report to the State. We do not get that information at our level.
Historically storage has been a recession resistant business. Many reasons as to why storage is utilized and, in many instances, " folks in between moves". At the Ordinance and Legal Committee meeting, he left a couple of questions for staff. Question for staff. how much net rentable square footage is in the City? What is the difference between regular storage, climate control and RV. The latter climate control/RV appeals to affluent clientele. Providing for higher occupancy rate resulting in minimal price sensitivity. He was hoping that information would be available for this evening.
Mayor Eckert provided a statement that rescinded his earlier support and cited COVID- 19 and its carnage compelling reasons to not institute the proposed tax. It' s just not the right time to do so.
We have heard the same from several of the facility owners.
When is there ever an optimum time to introduce a new tax? He is not a fan of new taxes; however, what is being proposed is negligible both in the amount and impact a smaller segment of the total option of taxes across the city. In addition, at this point and time, none of us know what the new tax levy might be, but shudder at the prospect of what the future might hold.
His self and other members of the Ordinance and Legal Committee heard from both the president and other members of the Illinois Self-Storage Association in effect lobbying against the proposed storage tax. He is sure members of the City Council have been receiving calls and emails since Ordinance and Legal voted to send to City Council for its full consideration. Once again you have probably heard COVID- 19 is a reason for the proposal. He is very aware of the atrocities COVID- 19 leashed upon our community and families. He questions that defense on this proposal. He has not heard or read an email from any member of the association that has provided their rates nor reduction in those fees as a result of COVID-19.
Prior to COVID- 19 such lobbying efforts played a role in keeping such a proposal from being considering seriously by the State Legislature. His hopes would be that the efforts of Tinley Park and Belleville would be a model for the State to adopt bringing some degree of fairness allowing municipalities to collect tax on goods and services previously sheltered from such.
The challenge for any management company is to drive economic occupancy rates. Increased net income, stabilized cash flows from multi decades returning revenue and create equity value.
Any return begins on completion of development and finding the competitive pricing point. This proposal is minimal considering terms ofnumbers i.e. renters if$100/month, add the additional 5% proposed tax, that raises the cost by $ 5. 00, $ 5, 00 divided by 30 days equals 16. 7 cents per day in other words pennies per day. That hardly seems like a burden we are being asked to believe it created.
The real reason for opposition is the self-storage facility owners just do not want to change their current practices, their business models and institute the necessary measures to comply as other retailers and service providers.
This proposal is a step in leveling the playing field and removing a perk enjoyed by so few.
Alderman Kinsella
Alderman Kinsella advised he is voting against this motion. He does not understand of all the type of businesses in the City m to why we are going after storage facilities. This is a bad time for the tax, and he is opposed because it picks out one section. If we were doing this for all businesses, it would be different. This is not the time nor place.
Alderman Dintelman
Alderman Dintelman requested this item to be tabled for six months. This will allow COVID to pass and people to get theirjobs back.
Alderman Elmore
Alderman Elmore commended Joanie Schaefer for representing her membership and lobbying for them. He would like to know if COVID is the obstacle. Many businesses have their customers pay sales tax and they went through having to stay in business or shut down. They are trying to survive COVID and they can' t use COVID as an excuse to not pay their taxes.
Today he received a letter from the Chamber stating business owners are in support of this tax.
They are charging their customer; they are not paying the sales tax. In a few months our Finance Director, Jamie Maitret, will stand before Council addressing tax levies and budgets. We will be graded by the tax paying citizens of how the Council did for a plan for tax revenue needed.
We have been talking about this for two years.
The licensed business self-storage unit has nothing to do with howling alley lockers.
Alderwoman Schaefer
Alderwoman Schaefer was told the City has 17 storage facility. The details are not ironed out.
We cannot vote on something that we don't know true details.
Alderman Wiezinton
Alderman Wigginton asked Treasurer Hardt will the office be able to implement this in daily operations i.e. hiring additional employees, reporting method. Treasurer Hardt stated he researched and yes, the office can handle the receipts of monies paid the City of Belleville i.e. hotel/motel tax. A spreadsheet will be created to maintain records. Treasurer Hardt created a form and is looking for an online service.
Alderman Wigginton concurred with Alderman Elmore that this was discussed two years ago and recently found an ordinance from Tinley Park.
You can only blame COVID- 19 on so much. Somewhere along the line this City and State must move forward and get back to doing business. If you want a standard of living in this City i. e. police, fire, streets maintained sometimes you must step up to the plate.
What percent of the people renting the storage— will not affect them at all. They probably won't even notice. You can table. when you table this you might forget it. A decision needs to be made tonight.
Retail and restaurants are getting beat up right now. The month of July which is a slow month in retail ( Federal Taxes July 15' , Sales Tax July 20th, Property Tax —end of July). He worked the entire month of July to pay taxes. This Council needs to investigate themselves and make a stand. Will this type of business be taking up more real estate? This council needs to have the guts to decide and not back pedal.
Alderman Hazel
Alderman Hazel advised when he made his comments to have unintended consequences to promote thought. He has read the ordinance numerous times.
Mayor Eckert
Mayor Eckert requested Alderman Kinsella to take his chair while he stepped down to make a statement. Alderman Kinsella recognized Mayor Eckert.
Mayor Eckert asked the City Attorney if this is tabled it must come back at the next meeting;
City Attorney Hoemer advised Alderman Ovian made a motion to table seconded by Alderwoman Schaefer and Alderman Dintelman. Under the Rules of Council Section 30.01 you would take that motion up prior to voting on the actual ordinance you can also refer to committee, postpone indefinitely, postpone to a date certain.
Mayor Eckert stated a year ago he recommended looking into this; however, he does agree with many things said tonight; however, there are many unanswered questions. COVID has had a major impact on staff and job over the last eight months. There have been challenges with filling shifts, being quarantined, and 56 furloughs. The City still has 21 as the meeting starts tonight.
We are not at full staff in any department. He is concerned with revenue.
COVID- 19 has affected the whole world, our county and Belleville, Illinois. We have people I hurting, dying, we have staff who are hurting. He is not totally against this; however, it' s not the right time to pass the tax.
This is not the right time to add a tax. If the tax is added there will be a few that will come back in a few weeks or months with literature that is mailed out that the Eckert Administration raised the tax during COVID. He was hit two years ago because this Council did what the Federal and EPA mandated and that was to do the sewer repairs. To get the low interest loans they had to lock in increase on the sewer rates.
In December 2020 we will review the actuaries and have to deal with the pensions. The City is obligated by State Legislature to pay the actuary amount. Many Mayors never paid the appropriate amount on the pensions and kicked the can down the road.
Mayor Eckert recommended postponing indefinitely.
Mayor Eckert resumed his chair.
Alderman Weveandt
Alderman Weygandt recommended tabling for six months.
Alderman Wigginton made a motion seconded by Aldemtan Rothweiler to postpone until the second council meeting in March 2021 the consideration of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 34 Taxation) by adding Section 34.048 ( Self-Service Storage Facility Accommodations Tax) ( no recommendation from Ordinance& Legal Review Committee).
Discussion.
Alderman Rothweiler requested city staff to respond to Alderwoman Schaefer' s questions and have that information prior to the second council meeting in March 2021; Mayor Eckert advised staff can do that; however, if there are Aldermen that have been working on details please share with staff. Alderman Rothweiler advised the information in needed for the budget; Mayor Eckert concurred.
Mayor Eckert advised City Clerk Meyer will manage this project.
Alderman Ovian requested to review the City' s fee structure and compare to other communities.
Members voting aye on roll call: Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Wigginton, Barfield, Kinsella, Duco, Puss, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelrnan, Schaefer, Stiehl. ( 15)
Members voting nay on roll call: Haul. ( 1)
COMMUNICATIONS
Alderwoman Duco made a motion seconded by Alderwoman Schaefer to approve Sones FOR A SUMMER EVENING 09/24/2020 AND 10/01/ 2020 Request from Belleville Philharmonic to host Songs for a Summer Evening, Thursday, September 24, 2020 and Thursday, October 1, 2020, 6:OOpm to 8: OOpm, 300 East ` E' Street. Street closure request half block east from 300 East E to alley ( alley access not to be blocked), half block south from 300 East E on Court Street entrance to 500 block of Court Street not to be blocked), 4: 30pm to 8: OOpm. Additional request of barricades and" No Parking" signage.
Members voting aye on roll call: Elmore, Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella, Haul, Duco, Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler. ( 15)
Alderman Wigginton excused at 8: 45 p. m.
PETITIONS
None.
RESOLUTIONS
ORDINANCES
Alderman Ovian made a motion seconded by Alderwoman Schaefer to read by title only and as a group Ordinances 8870-2020; 8871- 2020; 8873- 2020; 8874-2020.
Members voting aye on roll call: Elmore, Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler. (15)
Alderwoman Stiehl made a motion seconded by Alderwoman Schaefer to approve the following Ordinances:
ORDINANCE 8870-2020
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 76 ( Parking Schedules) of the Revised Ordinances of the City Of Belleville, Illinois as Amended, by Amending Portions of Sections Thereof.
ORDINANCE 8871- 2020
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 76 ( Parking Schedules) of the Revised Ordinances of the City Of Belleville, Illinois as Amended, by Amending Portions of Sections Thereof.
ORDINANCE 8873-2020
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 76 ( Parking Schedules) of the Revised Ordinances of the City Of Belleville, Illinois as Amended, by Amending Portions of Sections Thereof.
ORDINANCE 8874-2020
An Ordinance Authorizing and Directing the Issuance, Sale and Delivery of General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2020, of the City of Belleville, Illinois; Providing for the Levy and Collection of an Annual Tax for the Purpose of Paying the Principal of and Interest on Said Bonds as they Become Due; and Authorizing Certain Other Documents and Actions in Connection therewith.
Members voting aye on roll call: Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore. ( 15)
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
MISCELLANEOUS& NEW BUSINESS
Alderman Ferguson made a motion seconded by Alderman Dintelman to approve Motor Fuel Claims in the Amount of$83,689.04.
Members voting aye on roll call: Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Puss, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt. ( 15)
Mayor Eckert advised he and City Clerk Meyer had a teleconference with the Christkndlmrkt committee and after discussion it was decided to cancel the Christkndlmrkt this year.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Alderwoman Stiehl made a motion seconded by Alderman Weygandt to go into executive session to discuss the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees ( 5 ILCS 120/ 2( c)( 1)), collective negotiation matters ( 5 ILCS 120/2( c)( 2)), and personnel, litigation, workers' compensation, property acquisition, transfer of property,( 5 ILCS 120/ 2( c)).
Members voting aye on roll call: Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Puss, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Barfield. ( 15) Entered executive session at 8: 58 p.m.
Resumed from Executive Session at 9:23 p.m.
City Clerk Meyer called roll. Members present on roll call: Alderman Kinsella, Alderman Hazel, Alderwoman Duco, Alderman Puss, Alderman Randle, Alderman Ferguson, Alderman Anthony, Alderman Ovian, Alderman Dintelman, Alderwoman Schaefer, Alderwoman Stiehl, Alderman Rothweiler, Alderman Elmore, Alderman Weygandt, Alderman Barfield.
Alderman Wigginton excused.
Alderman Ovian made a motion seconded by Alderman Pusa to approve worker' s compensation settlement in the amount of$23, 439.75.
Members voting aye on roll call: Hazel, Duco, Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella. ( 14) Alderman Elmore abstained. ( 1)
Alderman Rothweiler made a motion seconded by Alderwoman Stiehl to recall Union member( s) from American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Local 1765 library employees Tamatha Patterson, Christina Deboer, Krystal Hill, Carmen Murphy, Melanie Harmon effective September 22, 2020.
Members voting aye on roll call: Duco, Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel. ( 15)
Alderman Pus i made a motion seconded by Alderman Kinsella to terminate Memorandum of Understanding and approve reduction-in-force by layoff of City Union member( s) from American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Local 1765 library employees: Laura Blaes, Connie Fitzgerald, Kathleen Geries, Edward Gillman, Kristina Gutierez, Stephanie Lysakowski, Aaron Luebbers, Renee Powers.
Members voting aye on roll call: Pusa, Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweder, Elmore, Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco. ( 15)
Alderman Randle made a motion seconded by Alderman Anthony to terminate Memorandum of Understanding between the City and the Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council Telecommunicators and secretaries- Heather Kessler).
Members voting aye on roll call: Randle, Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duces, Puss ( 15)
Alderman Anthony made a motion seconded by Alderman Dintelman to approve reduction-inforce by layoff of non- union employee Ray Proksha.
Members voting aye on roll call: Ferguson, Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler, Elmore, Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Puss, Randle. ( 15)
ADJOURNMENT
Alderman Ferguson made a motion seconded by Alderman Elmore to adjourn at 9: 35 p.m.
Members voting aye on roll call: Anthony, Ovian, Dintelman, Schaefer, Stiehl, Rothweiler,
Elmore, Weygandt, Barfield, Kinsella, Hazel, Duco, Posit, Randle, Ferguson. ( 15)
https://www.belleville.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09212020-2321
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