Galesburg Reporter

City of Galesburg City Council met March 7.

Here are the minutes provided by the council;

Called to order by Mayor Peter Schwartzman at 5:30 p.m. 

Roll Call #1: Present: Mayor Peter Schwartzman, Council Members Bradley Hix, Kevin Wallace, Dwight White, Jaclyn Smith-Esters, Sarah Davis, and Larry Cox, 7. Absent: Council Member Wayne Dennis, 1. Also Present: City Manager Todd Thompson, City Attorney Bradley Nolden, and City Clerk Kelli Bennewitz. 

Mayor Schwartzman declared a quorum present at 5:30 p.m. 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 

A moment of silence was observed in lieu of an invocation. 

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member Cox, to approve the minutes of the City Council’s regular meeting from February 21, 2022. 

Roll Call #2: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried . 

CONSENT AGENDA #2022-05 

All matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion. 

22-4019 

Approve waiving normal purchasing policies and approve the product pricing as provided by Core & Main for various water meters and radio units to be purchased by the Water Division in the amount of $73,200. 

22-4020 

Approve an extension with the University of Illinois at Chicago for a study in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Help Eliminate Lead Program Pilot Grant modification. This would extend the grant through July 31, 2022. 

22-4021 

Approve an agreement with AMP Electrical and Mechanical Services to install new lighting for the tennis courts at Lakeside Recreation Facility. The estimated cost of this project is $35,595; however there would be no cost to the City since the replacement would be submitted to Ameren for their Energy Efficiency Rebate program. 

22-5000 

Receive the following rate schedules for wrecker services: 

1. A to Z Towing & Transport 

2. Berg’s Towing 

3. Bob’s Towing, Inc. 

4. Bolin’s Towing & Repair 

5. Galesburg Towing LLC 

6. Winkler’s Towing & Repair 

22-8004 

Approve bills in the amount of $450,658.98 and advance checks in the amount of $608,655.28. 

Youth Commission Co-Chairs, Precious Dortch and Joy Basosa-Nzumba, presented the Youth Commission Report . 

Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to approve Consent Agenda 2022-05. 

Roll Call #3: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried by omnibus vote. 

PASSAGE OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS 

22-1003 

Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Wallace, to approve the Ordinance on final reading amending Chapter 152 of the Galesburg Municipal Code in regard to Residential Gardens. 

Mark Rasmussen addressed the Council in opposition to this ordinance. He stated that he planted a peach tree in his front yard and it has been a great opportunity to meet his neighbors and to share with those who may need the food. He estimates that he has shared and enjoyed over 3,000 peaches which would cost more than $5,000 if they were purchased in a store. Mr. Rasmussen added that he purchases lots in Galesburg and develops them into gardens and orchards, estimating that he has paid over $300,000 in real estate taxes in the last 20 years. He has also planted more than 1,000 fruit trees. Mr. Rasmussen believes that this ordinance is very short sighted and that people need the opportunity to take pride in their yards and neighborhoods. 

Blaire and Chris Schertz addressed the Council and stated they are business owners from Macomb who are interested in opening a nursery here on North Henderson Street. They are disheartened that this ordinance is being discussed. They added that they understand setbacks but feel that this is overstepping and would be a big mistake if approved. They suggest that the Council amend the ordinance to only specify set back requirements for visibility and that it would be a mistake not to listen to the citizens. 

Sandra Gray addressed the Council and stated that she is a runner in the community and loves to see the diversity of all the beautiful gardens which feature unique art and design. She believes gardeners are artists and she has enjoyed expanding her vegetable gardens to enjoy and share. She added that she is looking forward to planting in her front yard where there is sun. She encouraged the Council to vote no on this ordinance. 

Ray Pickrel stated that with all the problems in our community it’s shameful that the Council is concerned and worried about a few gardens. He encouraged them to focus on bigger issues. 

Ginny Rogers addressed the Council and stated that she hopes the South Side Task Force does not support this ordinance. She added that she rents her home but that she takes great pride in her yard and neighborhood. She has a special needs grandson who enjoys planting and gardening. Ms. Rogers feels that the Council is only thinking of themselves and who they are angry with and that the ordinance needs to be voted down. 

Carol Buebe addressed the Council and stated that this ordinance is a blatant display of privilege and that with the food deserts in our community, people need access to gardens. She feels this ordinance is very elitist and that the Council should vote no. 

LuAnn Mahnesmith addressed the Council and stated that she grew up on the east end of Kiwanis Park. She has many trees in her backyard (cottonwood, walnut, etc.) that make it so she cannot plant a garden. However, she’s able to grow amazing flowers in her front yard. She hopes the Council votes this ordinance down and doesn’t ruin neighborhoods. 

Elyse McCloud addressed the Council and stated that she has gardened most of her life and talks to many people who have a love of gardens, plants, and Galesburg. She can’t believe that the City would tell her what she can and can’t plant on her own property. She pays property taxes and enjoys sharing her homegrown food. She noted that it used to be that our parents and grandparents had a duty to plant a “victory garden” and to share. She feels that the ordinance needs to be reexamined and that it should not be a vendetta against one person. 

Dale Jacobs addressed the Council and stated that he and his wife take in addicts and teach at the Knox County Jail. Many people they help, including kids, have been involved in gardening with them, which brings a great opportunity to mentor them. 

John, former Knox College student, addressed the Council and noted that he used to live in a community that didn’t allow for new and interesting gardens and believes that green lawns are lifeless and boring. He feels that we have good soil here and that growing your own food is an important part of many people’s futures. He doesn’t believe the City should tell people what’s beautiful and what’s not and that we should support families. 

Hannah, Galesburg resident, addressed the Council and stated that many items such as hostas, and daylilies, are edible. She doesn’t understand why the City would want to spend money to remove trees and other items from yards and believes the Council should listen to the people and vote no. 

Rene Pelotte addressed the Council and stated that she and her husband revitalized a former drug house on West Main Street and have a garden in the front due to not having much of a backyard. They grow perennials, herbs, and raspberry bushes, and have been told that they have a beautiful house and yard. 

Craig, a resident who moved to town four years ago, addressed the Council questioning if this would be a sweeping ordinance that affects everyone. He hopes the City checked on what is edible and what isn’t and hopes that they vote no. 

Council Member White stated that this ordinance has nothing to do with the South Side Task Force. He noted that one of Galesburg’s founding fathers, George Washington Gale, also founded Knox College and believed in a manual labor education system. This was a type of school in the United States, primarily between 1825-1860, in which agriculture or mechanical work supplemented academic activity. He reiterated that Gale started this town with agriculture. 

Council Member Davis thanked everyone who attended the meeting and spoke about the ordinance. She understands that addressing the Council can be nerve wracking and she admires those that came forward. She noted that this ordinance did not come from the Council but was recommended by members of the Planning & Zoning Commission. She is unsure of the discussions that were held by the Commission and the Development Review Committee before this came to the Council and questioned the lack of transparency. She will be voting no on the ordinance. 

Council Member Cox thanked Mark Rasmussen for his investment in the community and asked if this ordinance would affect vacant lots. The City Manager stated that it would not since they are regulated by the Community Garden Ordinance and that there would be no change. 

Council Member Cox moved to table agenda item 22-1003, seconded by Council Member Wallace. Council Member Smith-Esters stated that she opposed the tabling of the ordinance and doesn’t wish to extend the discussion and the vote. 

Roll Call #4: 

Ayes: Council Member Cox, 1. 

Nays: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, and Davis, 5. 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion failed. 

City Clerk Bennewitz called the following vote for agenda item 22-1003: 

Roll Call #5: 

Ayes: None 

Nays: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion failed. 

22-1004 

Ordinance on first reading approving a zoning amendment from R3A, Multi-Family to B3 Central Business District, for KXZ Properties, located at 239 South Cherry Street (former St. Mary’s Square). The City Manager noted that he believes this is an appropriate zoning amendment even if other businesses occupy the property in the future. 

22-1005 

Ordinance on first reading amending Section 113-043 (A) of Chapter 113 of the Galesburg Municipal Code to limit the number of Class A liquor licenses. 

22-1006 

Ordinance on first reading amending Section 97.033 of Chapter 97 of the Galesburg Municipal Code regarding the Tree Commission. 

22-2010 

Council Member Cox moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to approve Resolution 22-07 authorizing the submission of the application for a comprehensive operations analysis grant under the Illinois Department of Transportation. The estimated cost of the study based on consultation with IDOT staff is $150,000. Community Development Director Gugliotta stated that once an application is made, it is anticipated that the City would hear back within the next few months. Funding would come from the Federal government and the State of Illinois. 

Roll Call #6: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried. 

22-2011 

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member Cox, to approve Resolution 22-08 extending a 90-day moratorium on the enforcement of Chapter 97 for homeowners and businesses who install landscaping or other items in their terrace. 

Council Member Davis stated that she believes there needs to be a larger conversation about this ordinance within the community. She understands that access and visibility are important, but that more diversity than just grass would be welcome. She supports extending the moratorium so that details can be discussed. 

Roll Call #7: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried. 

BIDS, PETITIONS, AND COMMUNICATIONS 

PUBLIC COMMENT 

Linda Miller addressed the Council on behalf of the Save Hawthorne Pool group. The group has attended all meetings of the Council, put up signs and flyers, sent emails and made phone calls to Council Members, talked to the media, and submitted 1,215 signatures of support on a petition to save the pool. Miller stated that after reviewing the engineering reports for 2016 and 2020, she doesn’t see why the pool is in danger now but wasn’t at those times. She believes the pool is not in disrepair but instead is not in the budget due to a personal agenda. 

Ms. Miller added that the pool has served our community for 37 years and should be listed as an asset in the Master Parks & Recreation Plan, as well as the Hawthorne Gym. She implored the Council to keep the pool open and operational and to direct Director Oligney-Estill to maintain and staff the pool. She submitted a 2014-2021 revenue and expenditure report for the pool to the City Clerk for distribution. 

Rhonda Brady addressed the Council and commended the six Council Members who vote no on the garden ordinance. She is also pleased that the moratorium extension was approved as well and believes more input is needed. 

Mrs. Brady stated that Friday when she arrived at the Hawthorne Pool she found out it was closed due to staffing issues. She admitted that she did not check the Rainout Line and others showed up at the pool as well who don’t have the technology to be able to check for cancellations. She stated that she was dismayed to find out that the last day to reserve the pool for parties will be May 20th, the potential closing date. She reminded the Council that Lakeside will be cold, even in early June. She also noted that the pool attendance numbers in the City’s Annual Report looked strange to her and reminded Council Members that the public needs a place to go. 

Kendall Bolen presented the City Clerk with information for the Council from Mercer County and Knoxville on their regulations for ATVs, motorized bikes, etc. 

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT 

City Manager Thompson reported that weekly yard waste collection resumes on Monday, March 7, 2022. 

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS (Agreements, Approvals, Etc.) 

22-4022 

Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Davis, to approve a real estate agreement for 820 East Fifth Street in the amount of $28,355.91. Cost to demolish the building is estimated between $200,000 and $250,000. City Attorney Brad Nolden stated that he negotiated the sale directly with the tax buyer. 

Roll Call #8: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried. 

22-4023 

Council Member Cox moved, seconded by Council Member Wallace, to authorize the purchase of parcel 99-23-126-054 from the Knox County Trustee in the amount of $823. This is the adjoining parcel to the property at 820 East Fifth Street. 

Roll Call #9: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis. 

Chairman declared motion carried. 

22-4024 

Council Member Davis moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to approve demolition proceedings on the following properties: 

1. 782 Berrien Street 

2. 946 South Pearl Street 

3. 1290 Day Street 

4. 1470 Grand Avenue 

5. 2069 Windish Drive 

6. 770 Berrien Street 

Roll Call #10: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion failed. 

Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to sit as the Town Board. Approved by voice vote. 

TOWN BUSINESS 

22-9005 

Trustee Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Trustee Cox, to approve Town bills and warrants be drawn in payment of same. 

Fund Title Amount 

Town Fund $1,398.95 

General Assistance Fund $5,368.34 

IMRF Fund $1,735.82 

Social Security/Medicare Fund $2,070.67 

Liability Fund 

Audit Fund 

Total $10,573.78 

Roll Call #11: 

Ayes: Trustees Hix, Wallace, Smith-Esters, White, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Trustee Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried. 

Trustee Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Trustee White, to resume as the City Council. Approved by voice vote. 

CLOSING COMMENTS 

Council Member Wallace announced that Stephen and Laura Albert have been awarded the Community Blue Ribbon Award (CRBA) for their home at 550 East Fifth Street in Galesburg. The award recognizes exterior improvements that contribute to a positive town image and is facilitated by Galesburg on Track and the City’s Community Development Department. The monthly honor rotates through the city’s seven wards with March focusing on Ward 3. 

The Alberts completed a major facelift to the property in recent years including new windows, siding, and roof on the house. The front porch was overhauled with all new materials. Other additions include a brick patio, a 24 x 28 garage, privacy fence, and blacktop driveway. New landscaping and accent lighting complete the pleasing aesthetics of the property. Wallace noted that coincidentally, the 1926 residence is the second straight CRBA winner that is a Sears kit home. The February honoree at 1578 East Main Street is also an original Sears home. 

The Alberts also purchased the property next door and demolished the dilapidated house there and cleaned the lot, thus providing a nice view of HT Custer Park to the east. The Community Blue Ribbon Sign will be placed in the yard and the Alberts will be recognized at the July 21st City Council meeting. 

Council Member Wallace stated that Galesburg on Track is asking for nominations for the city’s 4th Ward for the month of April. Nomination forms can be completed through the city’s website or by contacting a Galesburg on Track member. 

Council Member Wallace clarified that his reasoning for wanting to table the garden ordinance comes from his busy work schedule and his isolation from the community for his job. He added that he grew up with a mother who canned everything and provided food for the community as well. 

Council Member White thanked everyone who attended the meeting and spoke and urged the Council to listen. He noted that the Council is here to represent them. 

Council Member Smith-Esters also thanked those who attended the meeting and added that’s how things get done in government. She appreciates the countless hours and research people have put into their concerns. She also encouraged residents to reach out and check on any veterans they may know who may be suffering from PTSD with the events happening in Ukraine. 

Council Member Davis thanked everyone who came to the meeting and for their diligence in continuing to speak on what they are passionate about; it does not go unnoticed. She understands that it can be frustrating but wanted it known that Council Members are listening and trying to figure out how to preserve the pool. 

Council Member Cox thanked the Youth Commission members for their service and for looking to serve the community and not just looking for the City to provide for them. 

Council Member Hix thanked Molly Miller for meeting with him and appreciated the time she took to explain and help him better understand the Save the Hawthorne Pool group’s goals. 

Mayor Schwartzman stated that he was moved by the insight, intelligence, and commitment of those who spoke tonight. He understands that it takes time to attend a meeting and that everyone has busy lives. He thanked everyone for the emails that he and Council have received as well. He is appreciative of residents getting involved in community issues. 

The Mayor also reported that he met with Quinn Adamowski from Landmark Illinois and that he has Hawthorne Pool on his radar. Based on that communication, the Mayor stated that he would concur with the statements made tonight that there is reason to believe the pool could stay open until it’s found that it is no longer safe, which can’t be said at this time with conviction. He will be soliciting support from the Council to keep the pool open and thanked the group and community members for bringing this to light. He has hope that the resources could be found to make the pool’s future long and robust. 

Council Member Cox moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to adjourn into Executive Session at 7:09 p.m. for the purpose of discussing litigation, release of past executive session minutes, and approval of the minutes from the September 7, 2021, executive session meeting (5 ILCS 120/2 (c) (11) and (21). 

Roll Call #12: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried. 

During the Executive Session, Council Member Smith-Esters, seconded by Council Member White, to adjourn the Executive Session at 7:33 p.m. 

Roll Call #13: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried. 

There being no further business, Council Member Smith-Esters, seconded by Council Member Wallace, to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:33 p.m. 

Roll Call #14: 

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 6. 

Nays: None 

Absent: Council Member Dennis, 1. 

Chairman declared motion carried. 

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