Carbondale Reporter

Murphysboro City Council met June 27.

Here is the minutes provided by the Council:

The Murphysboro, Illinois, City Council met in regular session, pursuant to its ordinances, on the 27th day of June, 2017. Mayor Stephens called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Stephens led the council in prayer and then the pledge of allegiance to the flag. Mayor Stephens then directed Deputy City Clerk Ripley to call the roll. The roll was called with the following

Present: Barb Hughes, Jance Curry-Witzman, Gary McComb, John Erbes, Mike Bastien, Dan Bratton, Gloria Campos, WJ Pittman

Absent: Russell Brown, Herb Voss

Motion: To approve the minutes of the June 13th, 2017 council meeting. All aldermen received a copy of the minutes, for their review, prior to the meeting.

Motion by Alderman McComb Second by Alderman Erbes

Mayor called for a voice vote. All were in favor.

Motion Carried

Motion: To approve the accounts payable registers through June 27th, 2017. All aldermen received a copy of the accounts payable for their review prior to the meeting.

Motion by Alderman Bastien Second by Alderman Bratton

Mayor called for a voice vote. All were in favor.

Motion Carried

Committee/Commission Reports:

Chairman WJ Pittman opened discussion for Budget & Finance related items. He stated that he and Mayor Stephens were going to meet with the Sr. Citizens Director, Joe Balsano to discuss the proposal that was received from the Jackson County Mass Transit Authority, but had not had an opportunity to do so. This item will be tabled until such time as a meeting can be held. Scott Evans, Budget Officer, presented the budget related reports for the month ending May 31st, 2017. The reports included Schedule of Sales/HR Tax Receipts, Schedule of State Income Tax Receipts Vouchered, Schedule of Operating Expenses by Department vs. Budget, Comparison of Budget vs. Actual Payroll, Schedule of Healthcare Costs, and the Schedule of Costs Related to WWTP Construction.

Motion: To approve the budget related reports for the month ending May 31st, 2017 as presented by Scott Evans.

Motion by Alderman Campos Second by Alderman Bratton

Mayor called for a voice vote. All were in favor.

Motion Carried

Mayor Stephens stated that he had requested that the topic of funding the Jackson Growth Alliance be placed on the agenda. He would like to see that we begin funding their group again. In attendance from the Jackson Growth Alliance was Brad Fager and Steven Bost. Mr. Fager advised that Jeff Daugherty is retiring and they are in the process of selecting a new Executive Director. Their mission is to represent Jackson County as a whole. Murphysboro, Carbondale, Southern Illinois University, Southern Illinois Airport and the Jackson County Board have been their five (5) funding agencies. Mr. Fager described the various projects that they have assisted with, which included the Southern Illinois Airport, the marijuana facility, and the Gavilon facility. They are trying to focus more on business retention and expansion and not just new businesses. They were also part of the CEO Program where the high school students go to businesses and develop and sell a product. Mr. Daugherty was also a sounding board for Mayor Stephens in developing the recent TIF district, and managing the Enterprise Zone, among other things. Mr. Fager stated that they are requesting funding in the amount of $5,000 as has been done in the past. Alderman Pittman inquired if the Executive Director would hold a full-time position and would that person have similar expertise as Mr. Daugherty. Mr. Fager advised that they are looking at applicants and will find someone with the qualifications that works for their group. Alderman Erbes asked if there have been conversations with Carbondale yet to get them back on board with funding. Alderman McComb stated that the funding request usually comes during our budget process. The funding is just not there in our budget right now and feels that the request should be brought back up during the next budget cycle. Alderman Bratton advised that he is not totally against funding the Jackson Growth Alliance, but wants to know what Murphysboro is getting out of the funding. He further stated that we have service trucks that need to be replaced, men that need to be hired and further agrees with Alderman McComb that we don’t have the extra funds in our budget right now. Mayor Stephens indicated that when things happen such as the sewer line collapse on Tina Drive that we find money to fix it. He argued that we always find the funds. Economic Development will help drive the coffers. Alderman Campos felt that we need to be proactive. Alderman Pittman feels that this is a unique window of time to be in partnership with JGA due to the comprehensive planning currently going on. Mayor Stephens stated that since 1843 the City Councils past have had to think about the contingencies. We want growth. We need an agency to help us along the way. There is no where else that we can get $5,000 for economic development. Alderman Bratton suggested that the item be tabled for additional thought. Alderman Hughes agreed and stated that our new council members may not be familiar with JGA and could do some additional research. Alderman Bastien is in support of the funding request. He understands that we are in a tight budget, but feel that we should move forward to help drive economic growth.

Motion: To approve funding the Jackson Growth Alliance in the amount of $2500 for the remainder of 2017 and to consider funding the requested $5000 during the budget process for 2018.

Motion by Alderman Campos Second by Alderman Bastien

Mayor called for a voice vote. Alderman McComb and Alderman Bratton opposed, all others were in favor.

Motion Carried

Mayor Stephens would like to continue to pursue the option of hiring a part-time grant writer. Other towns have had a success in bringing in grant dollars. Sesser had 1.2 Million in grants and Vergennes brought in $370,000. Alderman Bratton feels like it is a great idea, however we have been burnt in the past and need to be careful. The previous person only found the grants. We need a grant writer who will find the grant, write the grant and submit the grant. There was discussion on a salaried position versus a percentage based position. It was agreed that the Mayor would continue to pursue and bring back options.

Mayor Stephens discussed the need for infrastructure solutions and a dedicated stream of revenue. There is currently no funding available for the projects such as Roberta Drive, Hanson Street, Bridgewood, other streets and sidewalks. There would be a revenue stream of approximately $220,000 with a 1⁄4 of one cent sales tax increase with a sunset clause. He feels that people would understand if they are seeing tangible progress. Alderman Pittman inquired what rate that would take us to. It would be 9.5% from the current 9.25%. He believes it will be a hard sell to the general public due to the recent tax increase by the school district. He would rather see us investing in a grant writer first to see what monies we can obtain before we tax the residents. Alderman Bratton stated that we need it desperately, but we need to look at the merchants and if they can continue their operation. Mayor Stephens suggested that we be very clear and transparent if any increase is discussed further. A vote is not expected tonight, but would like to continue the discussion.

There was no public comment on Budget and Finance related items.

Alderman McComb opened discussion for Building and Grounds related items. Under old business, the council considered the maintenance proposal from Murphysboro Lawn & Garden. We are continuing to pay the general upkeep monthly. Bert Ozburn, representative of the Smysor Board has committed to pay, but we have not seen any funds yet.

The Mt. Carbon Cemetery maintenance was also discussed. Alderman Erbes spoke with the Murphysboro Township and they were in the process of cleaning up the tree with borrowed equipment from Mark Williams Outdoor Equipment. Although the issue of ownership has not been determined, the immediate problem has been resolved and will be removed from the agenda.

Alderman McComb asked for an update on fencing around the old Washington School. He stated that there is fencing at the Ruby Turner property that could be used. Between that and what is left from the old Wastewater Treatment Plant, there should be enough. Alderman Hughes indicated that she and Darrin walked the property and they plan to leave a pathway for walkers.

Mayor Stephens indicated that we received three bids for the installation of an air conditioning system for our server room. The bids were opened with the following results: Voss - $5765; Craine - $7245; Williams - $7120

Motion: To approve the bid from Voss Heating and Air Conditioning in the amount of $5,765 for the installation of an air conditioning system for our server room.

Motion by Alderman Bratton Second by Alderman Hughes

Mayor called for a voice vote. All were in favor.

Motion Carried

There was no public comment on Building and Grounds related items.

Chairman John Erbes opened discussion for Community Relations items. There was no old business on the agenda. The council considered requests from Brews Brothers Taproom for three street closures. Friday, August 18th through Saturday, August 19th, Saturday, October 7th and Saturday, November 4th. Alderman McComb inquired when when we close the streets, who is responsible for accidents? Is there special insurance required?

Motion: To approve the requests from Brews Brothers Taproom for street closures on August 18th, August 19th, October 7th and November 4th. Motion by Alderman Pittman Second by Alderman Curry-Witzman Mayor called for a voice vote. All were in favor. Motion Carried

There was no public comment on Community Relations related items.

Chairman Mike Bastien opened discussion for Public Improvement related items. The council considered the change to our ordinance for improvements on the City right-of-ways.

Motion: To approve the proposed change to our ordinance for improvements on City right-of-ways. Motion by Alderman Bastien Second by Alderman Erbes

Mayor called for a roll call vote.

Yes - Alderman Hughes, Curry-Witzman, McComb, Erbes, Bratton, Bastien, Campos, Pittman

No - None

Motion Carried

The council discussed the current definition of a yard sale. A proposal was submitted changing the language in our ordinance. Mayor Stephens asked if the ordinance would take effect immediately and if a copy would be sent to businesses. Chief Roberts asked who the enforcement department was. Attorney Heller indicated that the ordinance is non-exclusive that it could be the Code Office or the Police Department. Mayor Stephens would like the record to show that the items on the sidewalks and at 17th Street does not bother him.

Motion: To approve the proposed change to our ordinance on yard sales.

Motion by Alderman Bratton Second by Alderman Erbes

Mayor called for a roll call vote.

Yes – Alderman Hughes, Curry-Witzman, Erbes, Bratton, Bastien, Campos, Pittman

No – Alderman McComb

Motion Carried

Alderman Bastien opened up discussion regarding the BLIP Proposal. Alderman Bratton had several questions and points of clarification. The contract states that we will provide them with electric and they will provide us with $1m liability insurance. Is that enough. Mediacom pays a franchise fee for their services, can we do varying fees? Lee Spradling, Phillip Ellison, Ian Ellison and Bill Verstraten were present from BLIP. Ian stated that the proposal consisted of Brian Manwarings requests. Alderman Bratton would like to know the cost of services they are providing. Mayor asked Brian’s thoughts. Brian indicated that the City is not dependent upon wireless internet any longer, but the items provided were on our wish list. There are no issues from Brian. Alderman McComb asked if this service would help at the Wastewater Treatment Plant when the internet goes out. It would not. Attorney Heller stated that to pass a motion would require a 3⁄4 vote requiring 8 votes. Alderman McComb suggested that we bring this up again when we have all 10 members present. Alderman Hughes feels this would be a disservice to our community if we passed up with opportunity and that we should not be fearful of the liability issues. Alderman McComb stated that this will help a lot of kids that currently have to go to places that offer the free wi-fi. There is a lot of local support and he is also in support of the proposal. Resident Rita Morefield indicated that she has been waiting a long time for the service. She currently has Frontier and it is not reliable. They need the service for schooling for college students. Ian Ellison asked for the council to consider what is in it for Murphysboro including the $6000 of revenue dedicated to the City. BLIP has been putting services in our community for years long before asking for access to the water towers. Attorney Heller indicated that there are 7 or 8 items that need some language change to. It was decided that this item will be tabled until the contract can be ironed out and a full council can be present.

Alderman Bastien asked for an update on pricing for new trash receptacles for the east end of Walnut Street. The request was originated by Trudy Thompson. Alderman Hughes has done some research including talking to Scott Evans regarding previous funding through Main Street. He stated that he will put the request on the next Main Street agenda.

Public Comment – David Mason stated that he was personally a BLIP customer as well as at his wife’s business Cindy B’s. They offer quick response time and dedicated service. This would be a step forward to bring more business in town.

Cathy Norton commented on the yard sale ordinance. Feels that the items on the sidewalks are junky.

Alderman Bratton opened discussion for Public Works related items. Old Business items began with an update on the extension of Osburn Street. Harold Sheffer stated that it has been quite an ordeal to get IDOT approval. Bishop and Elwell has revised their plan. IDOT is concerned about commercial development. They are now asking for a business plan. Still trying to get it worked out. Will table this item until more information is available.

Alderman Bratton requested that Jim Stewart give the council an update on the 7th Street Lift Station. Jim stated that we need to upgrade the pumps. He has bids in the amount of $14000 and $9776.50 from ESN Inc. Alderman Hughes asked for clarification because she thought the lift station was just recently upgraded. How could we miss it during the upgrade? The issues are mostly related to infiltration. The new pumps are the same size. They are in the process of putting a camera in the line. However, there is a lot of gravel in the line. Harold states the pumps are sized correctly according to EPA regulations. Jim indicated that there is a three week lead time once the pumps are orders. Alderman Bratton indicated that this is another unfunded expense. Alderman Pittman asked what is the exact problem with the pumps? Jim stated that they are working individually, but not together. Never had to pump out of that station and did this year.

Motion: To approve purchasing the new pumps for the 7th Street Lift Station in the amount of $9776.50

Motion by Alderman Bratton Second by Alderman Bastien

Mayor called for a voice vote. Alderman McComb and Alderman McComb opposed, all others were in favor.

Motion Carried

The council discussed the issue with the sewer lines on Steven Lane. Tim has not received any formal bids yet for the lining of the sewer lines, but has an informal quote. Prices range from $25 to $50 per foot with the more that we do, the cheaper the price gets. Alderman Bratton suggested that we line the Tina Drive sewer main as well. Tim will identify the areas needed to be lined and continue to get more information. This item will be tabled until the needed information is gathered.

The council considered a request for two 30 minute parking spaces by MugLee Brew. They also requested one-way traffic to create additional parking spaces.

Motion: To approve the request for two thirty minute parking spaces on Chestnut Street in front of the MugLee Brew Coffee Shop.

Motion by Alderman Campos Second by Alderman Hughes

Mayor called for a roll call vote.

Yes - Alderman Hughes, Curry-Witzman, Bratton, Bastien, Campos

No – Alderman McComb, Erbes, Pittman Motion Carried

The request for speed bumps on North 7th Street was discussed. The question came up on whether or not we could use motor fuel funds on a street with speed bumps on it. Mayor Stephens indicated that he would not be in favor of speed bumps. Chief Roberts stated that the department has worked radar on North 7th Street. There have been some issues detected, but for the most part only a few speeders over the limit. Did not see any consistent speeders. He stated that he is looking for funding for radar signs that can log the data.

The council discussed the offer by the owner of 301 Rogers Street to demolish residence and to waive attorney fees and associated costs. Attorney Heller stated that they have offered to tear the building down within 120 days and pay for it. They are asking for the attorney and court costs be waived. The City would not want to dismiss the case against them until such time as the demolition and clean-up was complete. Alderman McComb suggested that we table this discussion until we have had an opportunity to discuss it with Eric Kennedy.

Public Comment - Mary Frazier is concerned with the gambling that is occurring in Murphysboro. Asked if we could require a sign out sheet at each establishment where people could sign themselves out. Mayor Stephens suggested that she make an appointment with him to discuss further.

In Alderman Browns’ absence, Mayor Stephens opened discussion for Public Safety related items. As the attorney for the Southern Illinois Airport, Stephen Bost gave a presentation regarding a proposed drone ordinance. He gave a background of what drones are and a need to understand where we are at. The Airports main concern is for public safety. The proposed ordinance makes it consistent for law enforcement. Brian Manwaring advised the SJMH does have an airport. With the current FAA regulations there is no enforcement mechanism. Attorney Heller stated that most of Murphysboro would be within the 5 mi radius, but the ordinance was wrote to be city limits. Just have to register with the airport. Meetings have been held with surrounding communities to develop a baseline ordinance. They need our help. No additional requirements outside of Rule 107. Attorney Heller is asking for our support in this ordinance. Chad does have some questions prior to approval. The topic would be tabled until our next meeting.

There was no public comment on Public Safety related items.

Alderman Hughes opened discussion for Personnel related items. There were no items, old or new, on the agenda for discussion.

There was no public comments on Personnel related items.

Mayor’s Report:

Nothing

Aldermen Announcements/Requests:

Barb Hughes Nothing

Jance Curry-Witzman Nothing

Russell Brown Absent

Herb Voss Absent

Gary McComb Absent

John Erbes Nothing

Dan Bratton Complaint of grass at new motel site.

Mike Bastien Nothing

Gloria Campos Happy 4th of July

WJ Pittman Nothing

Department Head Announcements/Requests:

Ed Heller Case against Eugene Cain was won by us. We owe

thanks to Pat’s Auto Service.

Marfio Alley – settlement approved by Judge Grace.

Sandra Ripley Nothing

Steve Swafford Nothing

Chad Roberts Nothing

Brian Manwaring Nothing

Jim Stewart Nothing

Darrin Mills Nothing

Tim Lee Nothing

Motion: To go into executive session at 8:52 pm to discuss matters related to 5ILCS 120/2(c)(1) regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body or general counsel and to discuss matters related to 5ILCS 120/2(c)(2) regarding collective negotiating matters and the contract proposal between the city and its employees or their representatives.

Motion by Alderman Erbes Second by Alderman Bastien

Yeas: Aldermen Hughes, Curry-Witzman, McComb, Erbes, Bratton, Bastien, Campos, Pittman Nays: None

Motion Carried

No action taken.

Motion: To adjourn

Motion by Alderman McComb Second by Alderman Hughes Mayor Stephens called for a voice vote. All were in favor.

Motion Carried

Meeting adjourned at 9:01 p.m.

http://www.murphysboro-il.gov/files/Council_Minutes_-_2017-06-27.pdf