City of Collinsville City Council Met Dec. 15

By Angelica Saylo Pilo

Mar 16, 2021

City of Collinsville City Council Met Dec. 15.

Here is the minutes provided by the council:

A. CALL MEETING TO ORDER

Mayor Miller called the meeting to order at 6:30 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 Jeff Stehman, Councilman David Jerome, Councilman Tony Hausmann, and Mayor John Miller

Absent: 0

C. INVOCATION

Delivered by John McLaughlin of Heights Community Church.

D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Recited.

E. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS

1. Proclamation - School Choice Week, January 24-30, 2021

Mayor Miller read the Proclamation and declared January 24-30, 2021 as School Choice Week.

Gathering of Trees check presentation to KahokStrong. Overview by Jeff Foster of Gateway Center, who advised this years Festival of Trees event was a virtual event with online bidding due to the pandemic. KahokStrong was selected as the recipient with a profit of $6,144.90. Toni Geison, sponsor for KahokStrong, spoke of program. She advised the organization started just over 7 years ago and has grown over the years. They give back to the community in various ways at an estimated value of $10,000 annually. She expressed her gratitude. Mayor Miller spoke of KahokStrong and how they have impacted those they help.

F. BUSINESS PRIOR TO PUBLIC INPUT

1. Ordinance Repealing and Replacing Section 17.900 - Historic Preservation of the Collinsville Municipal Code, Title 17 (Zoning)

Overview by Cristin Hardin, Associate Planner, who advised this ordinance would repeal and replace Section 17.900 of the Municipal Code with regards to the Historic Preservation Commission. The ordinance provides for a process to determine historical landmarks, economic hardship, design standards, acceptable fencing, and certificate of appropriateness. It gives clear guidance and standards for the public. She explained the difference between major changes or major works versus minor improvements that would be exempt.

Councilman Stehman inquired of an appeal to which Ms. Hardin advised an appeal process is in.

2. Ordinance Rezoning Real Estate Owned by Todd Evers from "B-2" Limited Commercial District to "UCD" Uptown Collinsville District (419 E. Main St.)

Ms. Hardin advised the Children's Dyslexia Center of Southern Illinois is looking to relocate their regional office to 415 W. Main. This storefront is currently vacant but was previously a florist. Other parts of the building houses medical offices. Rezoning is necessary to allow for use. The Center provides free tutoring services. Relocating would allow the center to expand enrollment and services. She advised the Planning Commission reviewed the application and recommended approval.

Councilman Jerome spoke in favor of the concept.

3. Ordinance Rezoning Property Owned by Strader Investments Inc. from "B-2" Limited Commercial District to "UCD" Uptown Collinsville District (106 W. Main St.)

Ms. Hardin advised the applicant, Lid Launch, is a retail custom hat company (similar to that of an artisan/maker boutique) with online sales. They are wishing to locate their manufacturing business at 106 W. Main. This property had recently been an office. Rezoning is necessary to allow for a change in use. The applicant's goal is to purchase the property, remodel and offer onsite retail by the end of 2021. The Planning Commission reviewed and recommended approval with provision of no outdoor storage of equipment or merchandise without a special use permit and required a trash dumpster enclosure.

G. COUNCIL DISCUSSION

1. Financial Projections for Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021

Chief Financial Officer Kris Mooney gave a financial update for 4th quarter of 2020 and projections for 2021. He advised regular quarterly updates will be given with forecast of projections. City Manager Bair advised a year end update for 2020 will be presented to Council in February.

CFO Mooney spoke of the impact COVID had. He mentioned the General Fund deficit, Hotel/Motel Tax revenues down, and Food and Beverage Tax revenues down in comparison to 2019. He mentioned low revenues at the Gateway Center due to the pandemic and their inability to host events. On a positive note, he indicated sales tax revenues continued to grow.

As for as 2021 forecast, CFO Mooney indicated he anticipates sales tax to grow and gave a conservative estimate since an end to the pandemic is unknown. He mentioned cannabis tax revenues.

He spoke of the property tax revenues and advised the portion earmarked for the general fund is less than usual as it will mostly fund the public service pensions. City Manager Bair explained the pension funding amount/percent is determined by the Illinois Department of Insurance Actuary Report. He further advised the City would rely on sales tax revenues to fund operations in order to keep property tax levels low.

CFO Mooney projected tax revenues from Hotel/Motel and Food and Beverage bouncing back in 2021. He advised the City is entering 2021 with caution on operational expenses, investing in the City with necessary CIP projects and park improvements.

CFO Mooney outlined the total funds for 2019 and 4th quarter 2020 for Water and Sewer Fund. He indicated a small deficit but clarified is was due to depreciation of equipment. He was unable to give a forecast as the Finance Dept. is still evaluating.

Next he highlight projected capital projects expenditures with regards to facilities, vehicles, infrastructure and equipment. The City plans to invest $14.2 million into the City for 2021. He listed fund balance projections.

City Manager Bair mentioned deficit spending period to subside the cost of necessary improvements for parks. He spoke of how the pandemic has impacted operations at parks and Gateway Center. He indicated unassigned fund balance will be used as investment back into the City.

Councilman Green thanked CFO Mooney for his efforts and level of understanding of the City's financials.

2. Neighborhood Improvement Program Implementation

Community Development Director Travis Taylor spoke of the Neighborhood Improvement Program which is a new program focusing on preserving and enhancing neighborhoods. He introduced Caitlin Rice who will serve as the project manager on the program.

Associate Planner Rice advised Council that staff is looking for additional input and guidance with regards to the structure of the program, meeting goals, and timeline. The program will unify departments and communicate with the public in their neighborhoods, train staff to identify problems and address them, and encourage neighborhood groups.

She displayed a map of the City and how the neighborhoods would be divided up.

Staff members from various departments will participate in the program (Community Development, Police and Fire Departments, Street Department, and City Council). Staff will take the initiative to identify problem areas, respond to resident's concerns, and solicit feedback from the residents.

She advised the City will send out informational mailings and survey regarding the program with scheduled meeting times listed. The meetings will be held in-person and online. The timeline for the program is to start in March with 2 meeting per month to follow thereafter. She further advised staff will be setting up a webpage with general information, map, meeting information and a link to the survey.

Councilman Stehman spoke in favor of the program. He referenced the broken window theory. He sees this program as a tool to make Collinsville more attractive and a better place to live. Lastly, he thanked staff for their efforts on implementing a program.

Councilman Green thanked staff for capturing Council's thoughts and implementing a program. She spoke highly of the collaboration efforts with the public and empowering residents.

Director Taylor thanked Councilmen Green and Stehman for bringing the program suggestion to staff's attention. He spoke of benefits to the program.

City Manager Bair mentioned a similar program hosted by the City but indicated it was abandoned about 8 year ago. This program allows for the opportunity to meet and speak with the public, address what they (citizens) deem as necessary improvements. He indicated that this program as well as other plans (Strategic and Comprehensive) shows the City's efforts to progressively move forward.

Councilman Jerome mentioned sidewalk issues along St. Louis Rd. he observed after receiving complaints. He spoke of the benefits of partnering with the residents to address issues they see within their neighborhoods. He encouraged the public to participate.

Councilman Hausmann thanked staff for their efforts. He mentioned the impact the program may have on the neighborhood and the community as a whole.

Mayor Miller agreed with Council's comments regarding the implementation of a neighborhood program. He too encouraged public participation.

H. SPEAKERS FROM THE FLOOR

John McLaughlin thanked the Council for the opportunity to speak. He spoke in favor of everything going on in the City and commended staff on their efforts. He mentioned an issue he had in his neighborhood and the quick response to address his concerns. He spoke in favor of a neighborhood program and mentioned events hosted within his neighborhood. He spoke of the benefits of community involvement.

I. COMMENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS - MAYOR

Mayor Miller spoke of the true meaning of Christmas. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

J COMMENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS - COUNCIL MEMBERS

Councilman Green wished everyone a Merry Christmas. She indicated it has been a pleasure to serve on the Council and she is looking forward 2021.

Councilman Hausmann reflected on 2020. He spoke of the efforts by Council, staff and the public with dealing with COVID. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to come.

Councilman Jerome advised this was the last meeting for the year. He referred to 2020 as a challenging year. He mentioned the vaccine being administered for COVID 19. He spoke of his hope for the future. He reminded the public to take safety precautions for their health and that of their family. He too wished everyone a Merry Christmas.

K. COMMENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS - CITY STAFF

Director Taylor gave a brief recap of the First Time Home Buyers and Rental Conversation programs. First Time Home Buyer

Number of Grants - 26

Total of Funds Granted - $114,250

Total Matching Funds - $103,000

Average Home Price - $105,705

Average Household Income - $52,389

Rental Conversation

Number of Grants - 2

Total of Funds Granted - $10,000

City Manager Bair spoke of the positive impact the program has had. He spoke of the good housing market in Collinsville.

Councilman Green spoke highly of the program but inquired as to how additional awareness of the rental conversion program could be brought to the public. Director Taylor spoke of utilizing the Landlord Business License program. He mentioned his efforts when he ran the Carbondale program and spoke of incorporating that into Collinsville's program.

Kimberly Caughran, Director of Parks and Recreation, spoke of upcoming events:

* Light Up Collinsville House Decorating Contest

* Christmas at the Collins House coloring contest

* Reindeer Bells Hunt and Winter Wonderland at Willoughby Farm

* Aqua Park Season Passes on sale

* Community Free Food Giveaway on December 19

Councilman Jerome spoke highly of the recent event, Bonfire and Brews at Willoughby Farm.

Deputy City Manager Derek Jackson spoke of garbage collection services and gave contact information to report issues. He advised services will be delayed by 1 day due to Christmas and New Years Day. He also advised Republic Services will be accepting live Christmas trees during the first 2 weeks of January and reminded the public that yard waste pickup concludes on December 31.

L. CONSENT AGENDA

City Clerk Wasser read the Consent Agenda.

1. Motion to Approve Payment of Bills for the Period Ending December 4, 2020, in the amount of $755,443.83

2. Motion to Approve Payroll for the Period Ending November 27, 2020, in the Amount of $735,460.14

3. Motion to Approve Minutes of the December 1, 2020 Council Meeting

4. Resolution to Approve 2021 City Council Meeting Schedule and Boards/Commissions Meeting Schedule

5. Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Planning Commission (Michelle Forneris)

6. Ordinance Appointing the Chairmen to Certain Commissions and Committees of the City of Collinsville for the Year 2021

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 Stehman, seconded by Councilman Hausmann, to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote:

Aye: 5 - Green, Stehman, Jerome, Hausmann, and Miller

Nay: 0

Absent: 0

Abstain: 0

M. NEW BUSINESS

1. Ordinance Adopting the Capital Improvement Plan for the City of Collinsville, Illinois (2021)

City Manager Bair presented the 2021 Capital Improvement Plan which includes 28 projects at an estimated value of $14,216. He explained this CIP is for 1 year instead of the traditional 6 year plan as a conservative approach due to the ramifications of the pandemic. The CIP represents the City's commitment in investing in capital items.

A motion was made by Councilman Jerome, seconded by Councilman Green to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:

Aye: 5 - Green, Stehman, Jerome, Hausmann, and Miller

Nay: 0

Absent: 0

Abstain: 0

2. Ordinance Authorizing Expenditure of TIF District 1 Funds (Bradley Keene/Visionary Wealth Advisors, 106 N. Clinton St.)

Ms. Hardin advised the applicant, Bradley Keene of Visionary Wealth Advisors, is seeking TIF reimbursements for proposed improvements at 106 N. Clinton. The project includes building renovations, an expansion to the building and site improvements with an estimated cost of $236,650. She highlighted the scope of the project and displayed renderings. Substantial completion of the project is expected as April 2021. She spoke of the economic impact of the project to include a $6,000 increase in property taxes and 4 full time jobs. She spoke of Mr. Keene's business and the clientele that would be visiting the Uptown area. The applicant is requesting a reimbursement of $89,960 through the Uptown TIF 1 program.

A motion was made by Councilman Hausmann, seconded by Councilman Green to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:

Aye: 5 - Green, Stehman, Jerome, Hausmann, and Miller

Nay: 0

Absent: 0

Abstain: 0

3. Ordinance for the Tax Levy and Assessment of Taxes for 2020 for the City of Collinsville, Madison and St. Clair Counties, Illinois

Overview by CFO Mooney, who advised this ordinance would levy the 2020 property taxes at $3,016,888 to be collected in 2021. The City's Equalized Assessed Value is expected to increase 3-5%. He explained the dollar value of levy is increasing 4.99% and the overall tax rate at .7253 in 2020. He gave an example of the impact of the increased rate to a homeowner with a home valued at $100,000 to be an additional $2.25 in property taxes. He further explained that 93% of the property taxes to be collected in 2021 will fund the Police and Fire Pension Funds.

A motion was made by Councilman Hausmann, seconded by Councilman Stehman to approve. The motion carried by the following vote:

Aye: 5 - Green, Stehman, Jerome, Hausmann, and Miller

Nay: 0

Absent: 0

Abstain: 0

4. Ordinance Amending Collinsville Municipal Code, Title 4 Fees (Water Usage Fee, Sewer Usage Fee, Garbage Collection Fee, and Handicap Parking Ticket Fee)

Deputy City Manager Jackson advised this ordinance would amend existing fees with regards to water and sewer usage, garbage collection, and handicap parking tickets:

Water Usage (per 1,000 gallons)

Corporate limits from $5.33 to $5.49

Unincorporated from $7.99 to $8.23

Sewer Usage (per 1,000 gallons)

From $7.24 to $7.46 for all

Garbage Collection (per month, per household, payable bi-monthly with water/sewer bill)

Household unit from $13.95 to $14.88

Senior Rate (65 years of age or older) from $10.97 to $11.30

Handicap Parking Violation (in accordance with State Statute)

From $100 to $350

Discussion was had regarding updating handicap parking sign fines.

A motion was made by Councilman Stehman, seconded by Councilman Green to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: