Galesburg Reporter

City of Galesburg City Council met Dec. 19.

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, Wayne Dennis, Kevin Wallace, Dwight White, Jaclyn Smith-Esters, Sarah Davis, and Larry Cox, 8. Also Present: City Manager Gerald C. Smith, Interim City Attorney Paul Mangieri, and City Clerk Kelli Bennewitz.

Mayor Schwartzman declared a quorum present.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Pastor Tony Franklin gave the invocation.

Council Member Dennis moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to approve the minutes of the City Council’s regular meeting from December 5, 2022.

Roll Call #2:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

Council Member Cox moved, seconded by Council Member White, to adjourn into Executive Session at 5:33 p.m. for the purposes of discussing the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees (5 ILCS 120/2 (c)(1) and the approval of the executive session minutes from December 5, 2022, meeting (5 ILCS 120/2 (c)(21).

Roll Call #3:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

During the Executive Session, Council Member Smith-Esters, seconded by Council Member Dennis, to adjourn the Executive Session and reconvene the regular meeting at 6:14 p.m.

Roll Call #4:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

CONSENT AGENDA #2022-24

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

22-3048

Approve Roanoke Concrete Products for the annual supply of fill and patch materials for the 2023 calendar year and the following products with the vendors listed below:

● Course Aggregate CA-6 (Gravel or Crushed Stone) – Mill Creek Mining

● Course Aggregate CA-6 (Crushed White Stone), Mason Sand (Delivered), Fill Sand (Delivered), and Trench Backfill Sand (Delivered) – Gunther Construction

● Hot Mix Asphalt Binder and Surface Course – River City Supply

● Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM) Mix 4 and Cold Patch (Emulsion) – Galesburg Builders Supply

● High Performance Patching Mixture – Tickle Asphalt Co

22-3049

Approve the proposal submitted by Gold Medal Galesburg to supply concession items for the 2023-2027 concession years.

22-6007

Approve the following commission appointments:

Dave Christensen, Airport Advisory Commission, term expires September 2023. Jane Easterly, Tree Commission, term expires June 2025.

Pat Grant, Tree Commission, term expires June 2025.

22-5017

Receive the 2023 Calendar of Meetings.

22-8023

Approve bills in the amount of $1,299,005.55 and advance checks in the amount of $1,238,416.59.

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member White, to approve Consent Agenda 2022-24.

Roll Call #5:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried by omnibus vote.

Mayor Schwartzman announced that he understands many are in attendance to talk about several important issues and while he is unsure of what will happen, he believes the community will win. He stated that this portion of the Public Comment will allow residents to speak for three minutes. He further stated that clapping, cheering, etc. will not be tolerated in order for other people to hear the statements.

Connie Dennis, Ward Two, thanked a small team of people who distributed signs against the sales tax increase and went door-to-door with petitions. She stated that she met with a lot of hopeful community members who were adamantly against the increase. She thanked many business owners and their customers who provided ways for residents to sign the petitions as well. Ms. Dennis submitted petitions with over 1,400 signatures to the City Clerk. She added that the number of signatures gathered was way more than the 400 survey responses that the City received.

Jerry Ryberg addressed the Council and stated he believes we need a community center, as well as maintenance on streets and roads. He feels that a community center would be for the entire community and that the sales tax increase is minimal.

Walt McAllister addressed the Council and gave statistics on why a community center is good for a community, including that it’s proven to strengthen social connections, health and well-being, and support networks. It would decrease care-giving burdens of many residents and help at-risk youth in our community. A community center would boost the economy and provide a strong, safe, and inclusive environment. He noted that he believes we are under-serving our most vulnerable population; the same population that cannot vote in April. He asked the Council to do the right thing and not put off a decision tonight.

Samuel Carrington addressed the Council and stated that when he thinks of any type of tax increase that is proposed, he thinks about who would be served by the increase and who would benefit from no increase. He has had to make these types of decisions in the past as a CEO and in cooperation with other executives, similar to the Council tonight. He urged them to consider if the people who are served by no tax increase need service more than the people who will be benefitted by a tax increase. If a referendum is used, it would delay the project and is cruel to those people who need these services now. The City’s roads are about to be hit by winter, as well as our people. The City needs to be better, do better, and do the right thing.

Evan Miller addressed the Council and stated that anyone who starts a business or obtains a loan or grant from the City must submit a business plan, and he doesn’t understand why the Council is going against its own rules and regulations. He also reminded Council that the number one concern on the survey was streets and roads.

Tony Franklin stated that he moved back to Galesburg seven years ago and was appalled at people in the community not coming together. He supports a community center, as that was the promise when the old one was closed. He noted that many churches, including his own, used the former community center. Furthermore, he supports the tax increase and opposes a referendum and believes it is a stall tactic.

Pastor Franklin stated that we must invest in our youth or the community will die. He explained that Youth-Adult Partnerships are an important part of the 4-H model and emphasize youth and adults planning, learning, working and leading together. He added that he will continue praying for the community.

Reverend Hailey addressed the Council, stating that he has lived in Galesburg for four years and pastoring for 36 years. He was involved in the Quincy community for 13 years and feels the need for Galesburg to come together and unify. He noted the former bowling alley is gone, and the City did nothing to assist or invest in keeping it. Likewise, he stated that not everyone will be happy, but that this decision is about young people, not about money.

Reverend Jowers wished everyone Merry Christmas and a happy 2023. He recited parts of the parable of the Good Samaritan from the Bible. He noted that we have changed, as well as America, and that there are now black men and women on the City Council. He stated that when saying the Pledge, everyone holds their hand over their heart and pledges one nation, under one God. He feels that the Council needs to come to the aid of the less fortunate.

David Amor, Ward Seven, addressed the Council in favor of the sales tax increase. He believes there will be many benefits but also understands that there is not a full plan yet, but is confident in the Mayor and City Manager that they will work through it in a fiscally responsible manner. He noted that the budget the City currently has for streets and roads is insufficient, and that the added revenue makes sense for this essential service.

Mr. Amor stated that he understands that a community center is an ambitious undertaking and that the community has been reinventing itself since he came to town in 1976. There have been many successes over the last 50 years and that changes need to continue, such as the new library.

A resident addressed the Council stating that kids in our community need to feel good and valued and that nowadays people can move and work from anywhere. He feels that not having a community center makes the community look bad, especially to people moving back to the community. He understands that a community center is not a major employer but that there is more to life than employment. A community center would serve everyone and that we can be a place where people want to build a life. He added that he trusts the Council to work out the details of a community center, where people can feel welcome at no cost.

Kristine Plue-Crow addressed the Council in opposition to the sales tax increase and stated that she emailed the entire Council and Mayor. She feels that the aggressive push for a community center is purely driven to satisfy campaign promises. The push for the survey done by the City was used to get an understanding of the priorities of citizens. The highest priority was improvements to streets and sidewalks by 71 percent of the respondents, and is not being ignored. She further stated that the majority of residents served did not want to spend more than $2 million on a community center.

Ms. Plue-Crow added that the people she has talked to have not stated that a community center would be vital to our community, but added that a 500-person community room will be available at the new Library. She inquired if the City had reached out to social service agencies, such as the Knox County YMCA to determine if partnerships could be created. She noted the past visioning sessions the City did back in 2009, which showed the overwhelming need for infrastructure as well. She closed by stating that the Council represents their constituents and if the majority of them are against this sales tax increase, who are they listening to?

Lonnie Brown stated that he does not work in the City but lives here. He believes that a community center is important and that residents need to push for one. He understands that people get agitated about money but that our city has gone too long without a community center. Mr. Brown thanked the City Council and hopes residents embrace a community center.

Alex Dismang addressed the Council and stated that Galesburg has a legacy, and that is of young people who only have one dream, which is to leave this city. He hopes that the Council considers heavily the impact this decision can have on retaining our residents. The Council can’t ignore problems and not grow, which will impact the quality of life for the “least of us.”

Jennifer Holmes addressed the Council and said that she had owned a home in Galesburg for 20 years and worked at Knox College and her husband worked at Carl Sandburg College. She is in favor of a community center, which would be a bold move for our community.

Reverend Vince Marolla addressed the Council and that before he came tonight he decided to put on his clerical collar since he serves God. He noted that Jesus looked out for the least, the lonely, sick, imprisoned, widows, etc. He added that he is a white man with privilege and power but that he cares deeply about the youth, homeless, and the least and lowest in our community.

Jennifer McDorman addressed the Council and stated that a community center would be helpful for families and people wanting to move to town. She feels that kids need things to do after school, on the weekends, and holidays.

Julie White stated that she was born here and has been an educator for 30+ years. We no longer have a mall, bowling alley, etc., and there is nothing for the youth. She can’t imagine not being progressive and that the City also needs to be aware of the mental health aspect for multi-generational people that a community center would help as well. She is interested in volunteering and helping to serve people who have less.

Holly McDorman addressed the Council and stated that she used the former community center for birthday parties and weddings. She has a family of eight and understands that people don’t have a lot of money. She has little income but would support a center and believes it’s the right decision and therefore willing to sacrifice her money to make the town better. She reminded the Council that they were elected to make the community a better place.

Willard Gatlin addressed the Council in support of raising revenue for the maintenance of streets and roads, and added that all this money will not go to a community center. He and his family are a product of the Carver Center, which brought multi-generations together, formed bonds, and built a community. He hopes the Council keeps their promise of providing a community center. Mr. Gatlin stated that he understands people don’t want taxes raised but that it is needed for the roads and community center. He urged the Council to take care of this now and that the community is counting on them.

Robert Cain stated that the City will be able to use the approximate $300,000 after the last bond payment and that kicking the can down the road won’t help. He understands why people are upset about the tax and that everyone needs to think about what the community needs.

A resident (Delores) addressed the Council and stated that the tax increase would be for the kids of our future. Just like a house, there are unexpected expenses that come up that need to be handled. Kids and seniors need a place where they can learn from each other and that the City needs to invest in our children and neighborhoods.

Darla Krejci addressed the Council and stated that she was viewing them and their leadership, which now shows diversity. She is encouraged by the innovative thinking and decision-making and looks forward to a community center where all can gather. She hopes the Council uses their diversity to make a good decision. It is a small tax increase for big results.

Council Member Hix left the meeting at 7:08 p.m.

Jim Jacobs addressed the Council and stated that a referendum letting the people decide will only get about 15 percent of the voting population and many people don’t have the money to buy signs. We have a representative democracy and have heard people say that some Council Members were appointed and noted that this was a perfectly legal process and have as much authority in their vote as other members. He noted that he has heard people say that the former community center lost money, which he believes is subterfuge since City services don’t make money. He stated that at a previous meeting, the Mayor pointed out that Bunker Links and Lakeside Recreation Center both lost a great deal of money over the years. He supports a comprehensive community center.

Mr. Jacobs stated that some people feel the Council is moving too fast but noted that the City has waited since 2013. He noted that the timeframe put out by the City Manager shows the progress and process. It has also been accompanied by a scientific survey that was taken from the population. He believes a community center would join people where their differences would be appreciated.

Council Member Hix returned to the meeting at 7:11 p.m.

Camellia Schwartzman addressed the Council and stated that she is home from college (Macalester College) and has been following this issue online and that her sister wrote an article on the community center for the newspaper. She feels that the City should have a community center to bring people together and noted that St. Paul has five centers. Growing up in Galesburg she noticed that the only time she felt a community was at the Knox Prairie Community Kitchen dinners or at the library at school. She feels that the biggest challenge is being okay with change. She raves about our community to her friends and that the benefits will pay off.

Linda Lewis stated that the Council has a tough job and decision to make and hopes they can see the benefits in a center. She hopes they think big and approve what we need.

Annette McAllister addressed the Council and stated that she has lived in Galesburg for twenty years and is in favor of investing in our community and is in favor of the sales tax increase and a community center.

PASSAGE OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS

22-2074

Council Member Cox moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to approve a Resolution placing an advisory question of public policy for an increase in the Home Rule sales tax from 1.00% to 1.25% on the ballot at the next election in the City of Galesburg.

Council Member Cox stated that the locker rooms and associated restrooms, storage room, fitness area, wood shop and art area are not included in any rehab estimates and that additional money will be needed for that work. He also noted that the revenues and income expected are hypothetical and very speculative and that he would be shocked if $1 million is received in donations as has been proposed, as well as $250,000 per year in grants and local partners. He noted that he would not be shocked when the costs come in much higher than expected. He further stated that if anyone wants to engage with the community, he encourages them to attend and support the churches, synagogues and service clubs. Lastly, there are several low-cost options for the youth and suggested the Hawthorne Gym could be opened up for free. This could be very inexpensive to provide and available five nights per week.

Roll Call #6:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, and Cox, 3.

Nays: Council Members Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, and Davis, 4.

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion failed.

22-1037

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member Wallace, to approve Ordinance 22-3689 on final reading increasing the Home Rule Sales Tax rate from 1.00% to 1.25%. The tax would become effective July 1, 2023. It is estimated that the .25% would generate approximately $950,000 annually.

Council Member Hix announced that the City Council received a report from the Chamber of Commerce, which showed 88.3% of the people who are business owners in the community believe this is a bad time for a tax increase. He further stated that in the City’s survey, economic development was rated important to our citizens and those who are starting businesses thought it was difficult to do so.

Council Member Davis pointed out that several have mentioned seeing signs up around the City. She noted that when she campaigned for City Council she purchased 50 signs, which cost $346.20. Council Member Davis stated that cost would cover this 0.25% sales tax increase on a person’s next $138,888 of purchases.

Council Member Hix inquired if there was a sunset on this sales tax increase. Mayor Schwartzman stated that there is not a sunset at this time, but that future Councils could change that.

Both City Manager Smith and Gloria Osborn, Director of Finance, stated that if the Council plans to bond, rates will depend on when the City enters the bond market.

Mayor Schwartzman stated that he has been receiving a lot of emails and that he appreciates them all and is trying to answer everyone one of them. He stated that the entire Council has declared that if this tax passes it will be for roads and a community center and that they will be accountable for that action. He understands the questions of uncertainty on the split between the projects and sought out a bond expert for more information.

He stated that if the City did a 10-year bond for renovating, not operational costs, there would be $284,000 a year left over from the estimated $950,000 annually from the sales tax, for roads. This would be in addition to what is already budgeted. He further stated that once the debt is paid off of the 10-year loan, the next ten years all $950,000 of this tax would go towards additional roads and infrastructure.

The Mayor stated that if a 20-year bond was sought, for the first twenty years, the community center would be renovated and $535,000 every year would go towards roads and infrastructure. He communicated this information to the Council and the City Manager.

He stated that the Council heard loud and clear that the number one issue that the community is concerned about is the roads. The Council responded more quickly to that concern than he’s ever seen in his twelve years on the City Council.

Council Member Hix asked why if roads are the number one priority with residents, why are roads not being addressed first. He feels that the majority of Council Members are doing what they want to do and not what their constituents want. He believes many aren’t against a community center, but instead the order in which it is being done. He added that he understands the vote will be 4/3 in favor of the sales tax increase.

Council Member Cox asked for clarification for what amount would be bonded for a community center. The Mayor stated that it would be $5.1 million for a community center, although he is aware that the estimated cost is $7 million. He understands that there are unknowns about the center, including the use of the auditorium. In his estimation, the gap would be closed by using the $1.2 million the City has allotted to this project, which would leave a $1 million shortfall. The Mayor stated that he does believe that if the community commits to this, they will provide the funding through philanthropic avenues. He noted that they are working with the Community Foundation to be the recipient of those dollars.

December 19, 2022 Page 8 of 16

The Mayor stated that he recently watched a movie entitled Mully and encouraged everyone to see it. He hopes to bring it to Galesburg and believes that it is one of the most amazing movies he’s ever seen.

Roll Call #7:

Ayes: Council Members Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, and Davis, 4.

Nays: Council Members Hix, Dennis, and Cox, 3.

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

The Mayor called for a recess at 7:35 p.m.

The meeting reconvened at 7:47 p.m.

22-1038

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member White, to approve Special Ordinance 22-617 on final reading approving the 2022 tax levy for the Special Service Area #1 (downtown) in the amount of $141,569.

Roll Call #8:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-2075

Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Cox, to approve Resolution 22-64 authorizing the submittal of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application to the State of Illinois for replacement of a sanitary sewer main and associated cooperation agreement with the Galesburg Sanitary District.

Council Member Hix left the meeting at 7:51 p.m.

Marshall Schrader, Galesburg Sanitary District Superintendent, stated that GSD is not an eligible entity to apply for the grant on its own and must be applied for by the City. It was noted that the sewer main has outlived its useful life and routine inspections of the sewer by the Galesburg Sanitary District show the pipe is in desperate condition and on the verge of collapse.

Council Member Hix returned to the meeting at 7:52 p.m.

Roll Call #9:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-2076

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member White, to approve Resolution 22-65 supporting the application to the State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Community Development Block Grant Program housing rehabilitation grant.

Roll Call #10:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-2077

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member Wallace, to approve the following Resolutions abating property tax on General Obligation Bonds:

1. Approve Resolution 22-66 to abate property tax on General Obligation Refunding Bond, Ordinance 2011-3332, Series 2011C (Abatement- $324,260)

2. Approve Resolution 22-67 to abate property tax on General Obligation Bond, Ordinance 2013-3418, Series 2013A (Abatement-$115,680)

3. Approve Resolution 22-68 to abate property tax on General Obligation Refunding Bond, Ordinance 2015-3484, Series 2015 (Abatement-$623,013)

4. Approve Resolution 22-69 to abate property tax on General Obligation Bond, Ordinance 2016-3508, Series 2016 (Abatement- $642,463)

5. Approve Resolution 22-70 to abate property tax on General Obligation Bond, Ordinance 2017-3540, Series 2017 (Abatement- $714,281)

Roll Call #11:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-2078

Council Member Dennis moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to approve Resolution 22-71 revising the Facade Redevelopment Grant Development Program to separate the programs that will be $20,000 or more to the City’s program and projects that are less than $20,000 will be coordinated by the Downtown Council. Some of the other revisions include lowering the total project cost required to be eligible from $30,000 to $20,000, changing the maximum amount of incentive to 50% of the project cost or a maximum $40,000 grant, whichever is less, and requiring property owners to provide at least 10% of their own funds for the project.

Roll Call #12:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

BIDS, PETITIONS, AND COMMUNICATIONS

22-3050

Council Member Dennis moved, seconded by Council Member White, to approve the unit prices from Municipal Emergency Services, Inc. for the purchase of turnout gear from 2023 through 2027. Chief Hovind noted that sometimes gear can be donated to the GAVC at the high school or to volunteer departments.

Roll Call #13:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

Council Member Hix left the meeting at 8:08 p.m.

Council Member Hix returned to the meeting at 8:10 p.m.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Samuel Carrington stated that this was the first meeting he had attended and participated in, and felt it was invigorating to share his thoughts, opinions, and make his voice heard. There were two bold moments in this meeting, one being when a member of this Council stated before a vote that it had already been decided. As someone who has never spoken at a meeting before, this comment was heartbreaking. This communicated to everyone who took the time to speak that their voice didn’t matter. That is not the kind of bold leader that he looks up to.

Mr. Carrington further stated that when the Mayor said he believes in this community, and that makes him believe in our Mayor. It makes him feel that anyone who wasn’t listening tonight doesn’t care or deserve the seat they are sitting in. Anyone who was listening to the people who needed to be heard, and paying attention, will see more of that after the next election.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS (Agreements, Approvals, Etc.)

Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to reconsider agenda item 22-4123.

Roll Call #14:

Ayes: Council Members Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis and Cox, 5. Nays: Council Members Hix and Dennis, 2.

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-4123

Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Wallace, to approve the appeal of the Overall Code Review Commission’s decision to deny a variance of Section 902.28 of the International Building Code and the International Fire Code regarding fire sprinkler requirements for the property located 510 North Kellogg Street. It was noted that there are four exits in the chapel area where residents would be staying.

The Mayor noted that this would be a short-term variance. Meghan Templeton, Salvation Army, stated that this shelter would be staffed all night, from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. She did note that the Housing Authority is allowing people to stay during the day if they have staff present, and they will plan to operate the same way.

Templeton noted that a new shower will be installed soon and Steve Gugliotta, Community Development Director, noted that having a shower is not a code requirement. She stated that there is no sprinkler system at the Hawthorne Gym, the location of the shelter last year. Templeton added that the Housing Authority has a banned list of their sites and are currently not allowed to be at the overnight shelter since it is on their property. The Salvation Army has already encountered three people who are unhoused but on the banned list. She noted that anyone who entered the shelter at the Salvation Army would have their ID checked and the sex offender registry would be checked as well.

Council Member Smith-Esters stated that the Salvation Army is also equipped to provide case management and continued support. She further stated that she would be abstaining from this vote since she is employed by the Salvation Army.

Council Member Hix inquired about liability concerns. Interim City Attorney Mangieri stated there could be an allegation of negligence if the Council approved the variance and would need to verify if the City would be insulated.

Council Member White stated that he voted no on this appeal at the last meeting since there were two requests that had come before the Planning & Zoning Commission and did not want to show favoritism. However, he noted that the other entity withdrew their appeal.

Council Member Davis stated that she feels the location is good since it is within walking distance and that possibly there are additional measures the Salvation Army can take to prevent fires, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.

Roll Call #15:

Ayes: Council Members Dennis, Wallace, White, and Davis, 4.

Nays: Council Members Hix, 1.

Absent: None

Abstain: Council Members Smith-Esters and Cox, 2.

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-4125

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member White, to approve an extension of existing printer and office supply agreement with Office Specialists, Inc. through 2027.

Roll Call #16:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-4126

Council Member Wallace moved, seconded by Council Member Dennis, to approve the proposal submitted by Farnsworth Group in the amount of $78,750 to complete the engineering/architectural work on the H.T. Custer Park improvement project.

Council Member Wallace would like to see some of the funding go towards improving the field so that it could be named after Coach Issacson. Public Works Director Wayne Carl noted that the grant is very specific but asked that information be forwarded to Elizabeth Varner, Parks & Recreation Director.

Roll Call #17:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-4127

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member Davis, to approve the revised Personnel Policy for Exempt and Non-Represented personnel.

Roll Call #18:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

22-4128

Council Member White moved, seconded by Council Member Smith-Esters, to approve the 2023 Classification and Salary Schedule for Fire, Police, AFSCME, Exempt, Non-Represented Hourly, and Temporary Seasonal and Part-Time Hourly employees.

It was noted by the City Manager that there are no other assistant directors in other City Departments. The Public Works Director/Assistant City Manager position has been posted but the Deputy Public Works Director may not be needed and therefore has not been advertised.

Roll Call #19:

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member Davis, to sit as the Town Board. The motion carried.

TOWN BUSINESS

22-9031

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

Fund Title Amount

Town Fund $5,120.69

General Assistance Fund $3,767.69

IMRF Fund $1,788.69

Social Security/Medicare Fund

Liability Fund

Audit Fund

Total $10,677.07

Roll Call #20:

Ayes: Trustees Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

Council Member Smith-Esters moved, seconded by Council Member Davis, to resume as the City Council. The motion carried.

CLOSING COMMENTS

Council Member Wallace thanked everyone who was willing to share comments and commended all who had different opinions. He said it was a tough decision but after meeting with Director Carl and the City Manager, believes it was the right decision. He recommends an oversight committee, similar to what the Library had, to begin the framework for the community center.

Council Member Wallace further stated that he does not like dissension and knows that taxes can divide people when they really need to come together. He believes we need to give to the young people and hopes that residents will volunteer in a community center. He appreciates everyone for attending.

Council Member White stated that he is amazed at all the people who showed up at the meeting, either for or against the sales tax, which makes our community move forward. He’s glad people are engaged and that young people attended the meeting. He stated that everyone should have a voice, and he tried to do what the Fourth Ward wanted. He hopes people will volunteer and donate towards a community center. He also has seen the movie Mully and would recommend it. Council Member White stated that his new mantra is “we are Galesburg.”

Council Member Smith-Esters added that there are a lot of good things happening in our community and appreciated all the calls and emails she has received. She recited the definition of a shepherd, similar to the one who God sent and was greeted by an angel and jumped on faith. A good shepherd listens, protects, sacrifices, and knows their flock. She hopes that is what she did and appreciates all who came to the meeting.

Council Member Davis stated that it was exciting to see the community stand up for what they believe in and that Council did not take this difficult decision lightly. She added that they listened to people and made the decision to make Galesburg the greatest it can be for everyone. She hopes everyone has a wonderful holiday season and that it is gentle and peaceful.

Council Member Cox wished everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year.

Council Member Hix thanked everyone for attending and that he listened and voted the way his constituents and neighborhoods wanted him to. With over 1,400 petition signatures it is obvious that people are passionate about this topic. He hopes that all the Council Members voted the way their constituents wanted, and if not, they need to vote in April.

Mayor Schwartzman stated that this has been the most momentous meeting he’s been a part of in his twelve years on the Council and that he loves this community. He does not like contention and wants to see everyone be united. He understands that there will be growing pains but is certain everyone will get through it. He is glad that the Council also has a diversity in thought as well.

He stated that he has received amazing emails and comments and appreciates the great new ways of thinking. He knows there have been some missteps and that they are working through those as well and hopes it’s known that everyone makes mistakes. He hopes to find a resolution to bring unity and is a firm believer that once we are through the mud, we can all collaborate and people will want to come to our community.

The Mayor stated that a community center shows we care about the economy, which is more than money, and that everyone will be able to contribute to show that we care about each other. He hopes people will watch the movie Mully and thinks the same can be replicated here in its own way.

Mayor Schwartzman wished everyone happy holidays and safe travels with the storm approaching. He hopes everyone can enjoy time with family and friends.

There being no further business, Council Member Dennis, seconded by Council Member White, to adjourn the regular meeting at 9:01 p.m.

Roll Call #21:

December 19, 2022 Page 15 of 16

Ayes: Council Members Hix, Dennis, Wallace, White, Smith-Esters, Davis, and Cox, 7. Nays: None

Absent: None

Chairman declared the motion carried.

https://cms7files.revize.com/galesburg/Document_Center/Agendas%20and%20Minutes/City%20Council/2022/121922%20City%20Council%20Meeting%20Minutes.pdf