Metro East Sun

City of Edwardsville City Council met Oct. 17.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Edwardsville City Council took place at 7:01 p.m. at Edwardsville City Hall, located at 118 Hillsboro Avenue in Edwardsville, Illinois, with Mayor Risavy presiding.

The Pledge of Allegiance recited by all present.

Council members Miracle, Morrison, Krause, Warren, Grant and Farrar answered present on roll call. Alderman Burns was honorably excused.

Mayor Risavy commented on Alderman Burns passing. He said that Mr. Burns honorably served his community. Mr. Burns was a veteran, successful banker, volunteer and a Scott Airforce Base Honorable Commander representing the City of Edwardsville. Mayor Risavy shared some memories about Alderman Burns. The Council Members each shared a statement and memories about Alderman Burns. He was a wonderful council member, provided kindness, support, civility, mutual respect and was a wonderful role model. He will be missed!

Mayor Risavy invite Pastor John Roberts forward to lead the Council in prayer. Pastor Roberts is the chaplain for the Edwardsville Policy Department. Mayor Risavy thanked Desiree Gerber and John Cunningham for putting together the slide show with the wonderful memories. Pastor Roberts delivered a prayer to the council.

Mayor Risavy welcomed everyone in attendance and those viewing on Facebook Live to the meeting.

Special Recognition/Proclamations/Oaths 

Chief Whiteford came forward to announce the promotions within the Fire Department. He read a statement regarding each promotion. The promotions are excellent for the City of Edwardsville.

Mayor Risavy announced the Oath of Office for Captain Robert Morgan promoted to Assistant Fire Chief. City Clerk, Michelle Boyer administered the Oath of Office.

Mayor Risavy announced the Oath of Office for Lieutenant Edward Burnley promoted to Fire Captain. City Clerk, Michelle Boyer administered the Oath of Office.

Mayor Risavy announced the Oath of Office for Firefighter/Paramedic Tanner Sweetman promoted to Fire Lieutenant. City Clerk, Michelle Boyer administered the Oath of Office.

Mayor Risavy opened the public comment portion of the meeting. Ten public comments were made. The first public comment was Andy Mauschbaugh. Mr. Mauschbaugh represents Southwest Illinois Youth Baseball League (SWIBL). This is the largest youth baseball league in downstate Illinois. He was speaking in support of the Plummer Family Park expansion.

The fields sell out very early. As of tonight there are 100 teams registered. They predict a total of 175 teams. He asked that council support the Plummer Park expansion.

The second public comment was from Robert Vest. Mr. Vest is an Edwardsville resident and spoke regarding his yard. He is attempting to grow native plants on his property and the city removed the plants per an ordinance violation. He recognized that Edwardsville is part of the Pollinator Pathway and he would like his home to part of the pathway.

The third public comment was from Jim Stout. Mr. Stout is an Edwardsville resident speaking in support of the Plummer Family Park expansion. He is a member of OMG Pickleball Club. He read a letter from the OMG Chair, Dale Miller. The statement read that pickleball has grown! There are currently 431 members of the OMG Pickleball Club. The courts are a great benefit for all Edwardsville residents. Of the 431 members, just over 150 of them are from Edwardsville. The rest are from outside of Edwardsville. That means the other members come into our city from other areas. Mr. Stout read that OMG has trouble finding court time for programming. The expansion will ensure that the courts become a destination for a several state area. The positive financial impact on the city will be positive.

The fourth public comment was from Bill DeVries. Mr. DeVries lives on Pin Oak Road near the Gun Club. He read a statement from Bob Viarkis (unable to attend the meeting). The statement was in regards to tournaments hosted with the court expansions. Mr. DeVries read, with the expansion Edwardsville could have one of the finest Pickleball venues in the Midwest. The expansion could attract regional and national events. Mr. DeVries also read a statement from Jim Burger, a tournament organizer. That letter stated the additional twelve courts would meet the requirements for application to USA tournament championship. The last regional tournament held in St. Louis had over 800 players from 34 states. Mr. DeVries spoke in favor of the Plummer Park Expansion and reviewed the local economic impact.

The fifth public comment was from Tony Malench. Mr. Malench is an Edwardsville native and a member of the OMG Pickleball club. He currently resides in St. Louis and comes to Edwardsville to play pickleball. He said there is no other comparable quality outdoor courts in the area. When he comes to Edwardsville he not only plays pickleball but also does his shopping and errands in town. The expansion will increase the daily users.

The sixth public comment was from Mollie Morrisey. She is an SIUE student and the president of the SIUE Pickleball club. The SIUE Pickleball club started in 2022. The club has close to 100 members. They have been working with OMG to get times for the students to play. She feels that more courts would be used. Pickleball clubs are coming to other local colleges and universities. Ms. Morrisey just organized a tournament with other colleges.

The seventh public comment was from Rob Landers. Mr. Landers is the Vice President of Glen-Ed Soccer. He spoke in support of the Plummer Park Expansion. He is in support even though this expansion does not include soccer fields. Mr. Landers sees the advantages of expanding the park and offering the activities in Edwardsville.

The eighth public comment was from Kendall Paulus. She is an Edwardsville resident and Head Volleyball coach at SIUE. She is speaking in support of the Plummer Park expansion. Specifically, the need for the sand volleyball courts. She said there are over 200 local Volleyball clubs for indoor. Beach volleyball is the fastest growing college sport. She said the six courts would be a wonderful opportunity for leagues and the potential for college play.

The ninth public comment was from Ryan McMichael. Mr. McMichael he is an Edwardsville resident. He spoke in support of Plummer Family park. His children are involved in club baseball tournaments. He said that local field options are limited. Specifically, full-size baseball fields. There are only three in town. Many local teams have to travel from Edwardsville to other communities to play. Mr. McMichael said the addition of services at Plummer Park would serve the Edwardsville community well!

The tenth public comment was from Craig Ohlau, EHS Baseball Coach and Edwardsville resident. He spoke in support of the Plummer Park expansion. As a high school, middle school and youth baseball coach he knows the impact of local fields have on youth sports. He said it is important to recognize the accessibility of the fields. Many local teams will host games on the full-size fields. The fields will attract many tournaments. This is an investment in our youth, economy and future!

Consent Agenda 

Mayor Risavy read Consent Agenda items as follows:

Approval of minutes of Council Meeting on October 03, 2023

• Reports of Elected and Appointed Officials:

o Finance Director - Monthly Financial Report (to be distributed)

o Finance Department - Monthly Activity Report

o Police - Monthly Activity Report

o Fire Chief - Monthly Activity Report (Fire and EMS Services)

o Public Works Director - Building, Electrical and Plumbing Permits

• Circuit Clerk's Report

• Group Health Insurance Fund Report - $327,360.00

• Closed Session - Purchase or Lease of Real Property for the use of the Public Body pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5)

Motion by Grant, seconded by Krause to approve the Consent Agenda presented. Roll Call on Consent Agenda: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Petitions and Communications 

None

Legislative & Executive 

None

Legal & Judicial 

None

City Clerk 

None

Finance Committee 

Motion by Morrison, second by Farrar for approval of Claims with the amounts $1,099,663.98 and Friday checks are $615,130.04, and $69,584.14 for a grand total of $1,784,378.16

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Finance Committee will meet on Thursday, November 02, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. in City Hall located at 118 Hillsboro Avenue, Edwardsville, IL 62025.

Public Safety Committee 

Minutes of the Public Safety Committee meeting held on September 12, 2023 presented for information and file.

Motion by Farrar, second by Miracle for Approval of a Resolution Authorizing the Fire Department to apply for the 2024 Illinois Department of Public Health Grant for EMS Assistance.

Alderman Farrar said this is for EMS equipment. It would be used for intubation devices. Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Public Safety Committee will meet on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall located at 118 Hillsboro Avenue, Edwardsville, IL 62025.

Public Services Committee 

Minutes of the Public Services Committee meeting held on September 26, 2023 presented for information and file.

Motion by Warren, second by Miracle for Approval of a Guaranteed Energy Savings Contract with GRP Mechanical Company, Inc. dba GRP Wegman Company in the amount of $3,694,660.00 through the Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS) Contract #220104 Energy Savings Performance Contracts.

Alderwoman Warren said this is for the water treatment facility. This is solar equipment with a payback at 51⁄2 years.

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Motion by Warren, second by Miracle for Approval of a Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to sign a License for City of Edwardsville Welcome Sign on IL-157 with Madison County Mass Transit District.

Alderwoman Warren said this is an entrance sign. The sign is similar to other signs we already have in place. Alderman Farrar asked about the placement. Alderman Morrison said it would be in a mulched area.

Roll Call: Five Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar and Miracle voting aye. Alderman Morrison abstained. Motion carried.

Public Services Committee will meet on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. in City Hall located at 118 Hillsboro Avenue, Edwardsville, IL 62025.

Administrative & Community Services Committee 

Minutes of Administrative & Community Services Committee meeting on September 28, 2023 presented for information and file

Motion by Grant, second by Krause to approve an Ordinance Approving the Annexation concerning 1401 Grand Avenue.

Alderwoman Grant said this allows the resident to serve on city committees.

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Motion by Grant, second by Krause to approve an Ordinance Amending Chapter 114, Article IV, Division 2 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Edwardsville (Limited or Prohibited Parking Areas - Governors Parkway).

Alderwoman Grant said this is restrict parking on both sides, to help safety for motorists. Alderman Farrar asked if accidents had been documented. Alderman Krause said it is just for safety. Eric Williams said these roadways are under local control. He said it is a higher speed roadway and not a good spot for people to be out of their cars.

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Motion by Grant, second by Krause for Approval of the 2024 Employee Healthcare Renewal. Alderwoman Grant said we are using a broker. The plan will make some changes to have increases at a manageable rate. She thanked staff for the time spent in researching. Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Motion by Grant, second by Krause for the Approval of Agreement with Byrne & Jones Construction for Phase 2 of Plummer Family Park in the amount of $15,902,190.00. Alderwoman Grant said committee supported agreement. This allows the continued commitment to greenspace. Mayor Risavy introduced Edwardsville Enhancement plan. The plan is to acquire greenspace, improve parks and make some major capital investments to the community. The Plummer Family Park improvements are one small piece of the plan. Slides were presented in the council chambers. Alderman Morrison said this is a great move forward for the City of Edwardsville. Alderman Krause commented that Phase I of Plummer Park has been hugely successful.

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Mayor Risavy thanked Kevin Head, Eric Williams, Nate Tingley, Jeanne Wojcieszak, James Arnold, David Sirko and Cathy Hensley. He also thanked the Alderman. Mayor Risavy is passionate about seeing children and adults active in the community. He is grateful for the support for this project.

Motion by Grant, second by Krause for the Approval of Contract for Sports Lighting and Installation for Plummer Family Park Pickleball Courts in an amount not to exceed $185,870.00.

Alderwoman Grant said the courts need lights. He thanked Katie Stuart and OMG for their work on the project.

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Motion by Grant, second by Krause for the Approval of Sole Source Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of a 2023 Ford Transit from Suntrup Ford Kirkwood in total amount of $39,330.00.

Alderwoman Grant said this vehicle would replace a 2007 Dodge Caravan used for sports and rec staff.

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Motion by Grant, second by Krause for the Approval of RASE Board Items from the October 3, 2023 Meeting. The items included the Veterans Day Parade on November 11, 2023. Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Motion by Grant, second by Krause to approve a Parade Resolution Approving IDOT Temporary Closure of Highways for Veterans Days Parade on November 11, 2023. Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Alderman Grant presented the Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee minutes from the September 06, 2023 for information and file.

Administrative & Community Services Committee will meet on Thursday, November 02, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. in City Hall located at 118 Hillsboro Avenue, Edwardsville, IL 62025.

Old Business 

Mayor Risavy announced the Resolution for the purchase of a 2023 F550.

Motion by Morrison, second by Warren for the Approval of a Sole Source Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of a 2023 Ford F550 Cab and Chassis to Victory Lane Ford in the total amount of $69,217.00.

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

Mayor Risavy announced the Resolution for the purchase of a 2023 GMC Sierra to Lou Fusz Buick GMC.

Motion by Warren, second by Miracle for the Approval of a Sole Source Resolution

Authorizing the Purchase of a 2023 GMC Sierra to Lou Fusz Buick GMC in the total amount of $42,429.00.

Roll Call: Six Ayes with Aldermen Krause, Warren, Grant, Farrar, Miracle and Morrison voting aye. Motion carried.

New Business 

Mayor Risavy commented on all of the wonderful events that have taken place in the community.

Closed Session 

Motion by Krause to enter into Closed Session at 8:18 p.m. to discuss one item regarding Executive Session: Purchase or Lease of Real Property for the use of the Public Body pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5)

Council entered into Executive Session at 8:20 p.m.

Motion by Grant, second by Warren to end closed session and reconvene council meeting.

Council reconvened at 8:35 p.m.

Action Taken on Executive Session Items 

None.

There being no further action required, Council adjourned at 8:35 p.m. with a motion by Miracle.

https://www.cityofedwardsville.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10172023-3168