Carbondale Reporter

Murphysboro City Council met Sept. 25.

Here is the minutes provided by the council:

The Murphysboro, Illinois, City Council met in regular session, pursuant to its ordinances, on the 25th day of September, 2018. Mayor Stephens called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. and Pastor Troy Humphrey led the council in prayer. Following the invocation, Mayor Stephens led the council in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Mayor Stephens then directed City Clerk Hunziker to call the roll. The roll was called with the following:

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

Absent: Russell Brown, Herb Voss

Mayor Stephens introduced Barbara Anderson, with the Department of Rehabilitation Services, Murphysboro Youth & Rec Center. The Southern Illinois Center for Independent Living works in conjunction with the Department of Rehabilitation Services. Ms. Anderson discussed what they do, the programs and services they provide and how to refer someone.

The council then reviewed the minutes from the previous meeting.

Motion: To approve the minutes of the September 11, 2018, council meeting. All aldermen received a copy of the minutes, for their review, prior to the meeting. Motion by Alderman McComb Second by Alderman Curry-Witzman Mayor Stephens called for a voice vote. All were in favor.

Motion Carried

Council questions regarding the accounts payable had already been answered.

Motion: To approve the accounts payable, register #707, through September 25, 2018. All aldermen received a copy of the accounts payable for their review, prior to the meeting.

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

Motion Carried

COMMITTEE/COMMISSION REPORT

Alderman Pittman opened discussion for Budget & Finance related items. Old Business: Nothing at this time.

New Business:

Financial Reports presented by Budget Officer, Scott Evans: Presented the Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss Statement as of July 31, 2018. Presented the Department Budgets as of August 31, 2018 – still running a deficit. Have not received property taxes yet. Alderman Hughes asked if the tax bills are out yet? Alderman Bastien stated he thought they had been mailed. Presented the Payroll – August has 3 payrolls. Had the Police Department retroactive adjustment earlier in the year. Health Insurance is doing pretty good - it is right at or under budget. Fiscal year starts October 1st. Sales tax is up from this time last year. The Income tax is being paid on time, no lag. The deficit does concern him.

No public comment.

Alderman McComb opened discussion for Building & Grounds related items.

Old Business:

Painting of Fire Station #2: Decision made to install new metal instead of painting. Alderman McComb stated he knows of a couple of people who wish to bid on the job. Chief Swafford stated will need to board over the windows, most are broken. Alderman Bratton stated will need to clarify gauge of metal. Mr. Mills stated it will depend on the paint, 40 year is best. Chief Swafford stated he has received one bid. Alderman McComb clarified it will be for 3 sides. Mayor Stephens stated Steve McBride had received a verbal bid from the Amish. Alderman McComb stated they will have to sign the Prevailing Wage form. Alderman Campos stated she would rather pay a little more and get 40 year paint. Mayor Stephens stated anyone submitting a bid should submit with 20 year and 40 year costs and with the windows being covered up.

Consideration of extending line of platted alley off of 23rd and Gartside Street: Alderman McComb stated this is the alleyway between the Marfio’s and the Ryan’s. Cost to rock from the tree up is approximately $900. Mr. Mills priced the tree removal at approximately $1800. Blankenship put in a pin. Alderman Bratton stated he has mixed feelings on this. Haven’t maintained for a lot of years, why are we spending money on this? The hydrant the Ryans installed is 3 feet into the alley, would have to move it. Alderman McComb stated he is not saying to take the tree out but do we need to open and maintain the alley? Alderman Bratton stated the city needs to maintain it or give part of it to the Ryans. Mr. Mike Ryan asked to address the Council for his father. Since they moved there the city has not maintained it, they have. Every survey that has been done is different. They feel if the City is going to rock and maintain it, do it all – move the tree, poles, etc. Alderman McComb stated he would like to give the alleyway to the Marfios and the Ryans. Mayor Stephens stated there is a court ruling that shows the boundary of the alley, the City can maintain it or not, the hydrant can be moved or left alone. Mr. Bill Ryan then addressed the council. He stated that where they put the line of the alley does not show on his prints. Stated there is a law that once you own it for 20 years, no one can come in and change the lines. When he installed the hydrant it wasn’t in the alley. Mayor Stephens thanked Mr. Ryan for his input. Then asked Attorney Blake if the court ruling established the boundary? For as long as it has been in use, as set out by Mr. Whiteside. Mayor Stephens then asked if the water spigot is on city property? Attorney Blake stated the court only addressed the alley in use. Alderman Pittman asked if the parties own the property on both sides? Yes. Suggested the city leave it as is. Alderman Hughes asked if the trash truck can get to their trash? Yes. Mr. Mike Ryan handed out a map of the property in question. This topic will be tabled until the next meeting or the one after that and the Ryans will be notified.

Mow to Own Program: Mayor Stephens stated he has nothing new at this time. Alderman McComb suggested asking the neighbors on both sides if they would like to purchase the property first, Mayor Stephens agreed.

New Business: Nothing at this time.

No public comment.

Alderman Erbes opened discussion for Community Relations Committee related items.

Old Business:

Community Night Out: Ms. Ripley asked for volunteers to help. Aldermen Pittman, Erbes, Campos, Hughes and Bastien and Mayor Stephens will be there. Sandra will not but Ms. Mulholland and Joe Fry will be.

Feed the Team – Friday, October 19th at 3:00 p.m. at MHS: Alderman Hughes asked for volunteers – Aldermen Campos, Bratton, Curry-Witzman and Hughes and Mayor Stephens will be there.

New Business: Nothing at this time. No public comment.

Alderman Bastien opened discussion for Public Improvement related items.

Old business: Nothing at this time.

New business: Nothing at this time.

No public comment

Alderman Bratton opened discussion for Public Works related items. Old business: Nothing at this time.

New business:

Discussion regarding the upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant Road: Mayor Stephens stated have been made aware will cost $200,000 more than expected, due to the slope impacting the wetlands. Have to pay 3:1 or create and maintain wetlands to replace what was lost. It has been determined a second look can be taken at how much wetlands are being impacted and then re-submit the paperwork as to maintain versus new. Mr. Sheffer stated that we cannot touch the trees due to a bat species migration from April to September. Mayor Stephens added that this project is very important and the city needs to continue to pursue it. Alderman Bratton stated they will come back with some costs and proceed with cutting down the trees.

Consideration of Demolition Notice to 230 South 14th Street: Alderman Bratton stated that the house across from this one was given 30 days to make repairs and this address is far worse. He has spoken to the owner, Martin Schaldemose, and nothing has been done. Mayor Stephens asked if there is a demolition order? No. Would the Council vote to pursue a demolition order? Alderman Pittman stated he would like to see the property before voting. Attorney Blake stated that Public Works has to send a letter to start the process and proceed from there. Ms. Bryant will see if a demolition order has already been obtained. Alderman Pittman asked if the Public Works letter lists the specific issues? Attorney Blake stated it lists general items. Mayor Stephens tabled the issue until the next meeting.

Resolution and Acceptance of Proposal to Furnish Materials and Approval of Award for the “Milling and Resurfacing” project within the City of Murphysboro:

Motion: To move forward with the Resolution and Acceptance of Proposal to Furnish Materials and Approval of Award for the “Milling and Resurfacing” project within the City of Murphysboro.

Motion by Alderman McComb Second by Alderman Erbes

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

Absent: Alderman Brown, Alderman Voss

Motion Carried

No public comment.

Mayor Stephens opened discussion for Public Safety related items.

Old business: Nothing at this time. New business:

Request to Declare Police Department Items as Surplus: Alderman Bratton asked how the surplus property would be disposed of. Acting Chief Laughland stated it will be put up for auction or traded to a dealer. Mayor Stephens asked about the car that had already been declared surplus property. Acting Chief Laughland stated the striping is being taken off and then it will be ready.

Motion: To declare Police Department items as surplus property.

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

Motion Carried

No public comment:

Alderman Hughes opened discussion for Personnel related items.

Old business: Nothing at this time. New business:

Discussion regarding Family Ride-Along Policy: Mayor Stephens stated this was placed back on the agenda due to a request from an officer within the department. Officer Jacob Weber and his wife, Alex, asked what the concerns were originally? That no policy exists and insurance coverage. Office Weber stated that the policy does exist and a waiver of liability must be on record. He handed out a copy of the policy. He went on to explain that rescinding this policy impacts them personally, as he takes his son to daycare since his wife has to be at work before it opens. He also stated that this has had a negative impact on many officers and their families. Office Weber formally requested that the policy be reinstated. Alderman McComb asked if this policy just for the Police Department or anyone with a city vehicle? Alderman Erbes asked if there is a policy for other city employees? Mayor Stephens stated no, there is not. Acting Chief Laughland stated that there has been a Ride Along Policy since the 90’s. Chief Roberts added it for family members and he has never seen it abused. Alderman Pittman stated that he voted with incomplete information. He feels it is important to community relations for the public to see the officers as part of the town and community. Alderman Campos asked if the policy will affect the premium? No. Alderman Bastien stated he is ok with it. Alderman Bratton stated he would like the city attorney to look it over. Mr. Minemann stated they give rides to the public all the time, and gave several examples. Alderman Campos stated she assumes we would have an increase in our insurance policy, so should we reverse it and wait to see the impact? Alderman Hughes stated her biggest concern is, having heard from some constituents, they do not want to see them taking a child somewhere or picking them up, they do not get off until 5:00, what if they get a call – choice is leave the child or not respond? Office Weber stated the policy states what they are to do in different scenarios. Alderman Hughes stated she is concerned with liability. Mayor Stephens asked if there is a motion. Alderman McComb asked if for just the Police Department or all city employees? Just the Police Department tonight. Will direct the city attorney to review the waivers that have been signed. Alderman McComb then asked when will we check with the insurance carrier? Ms. Ripley stated she has spoken to the insurance agent, we do have coverage for anyone riding with an officer but would like to see our policy.

Motion: To Re-instate the Previous Ride Along Policy for the Police Department.

Motion by Alderman Bastien Second by Alderman Pittman Yeas: Alderman Hughes, Alderman Curry-Witzman, Alderman Erbes, Alderman Bastien, Alderman Campos, Alderman Pittman

Nays: Alderman Bratton

Abstain: Alderman McComb

Absent: Alderman Brown, Alderman Voss Motion Carried

Health Insurance Issue: Ms. Ripley and Mr. Evans stated the renewal started with a 19% increase, they negotiated down to 14%, then found one that was only a 6% increase. However, It raises the deductible. Mr. Evans stated the exposure would be on ourselves, we budget for 50%. Alderman Bratton asked if the employees voted on this? Ms. Ripley stated there is no increase on the employee’s out of pocket and it was presented to the union representatives.

No public comment.

Consideration of Settlement of Pending Complaint to make safe and secure Brown Shoe Factory property: Attorney Blake stated he had received from the Homan attorney a proposal from Rawson Excavating for $44,500. Will clarify the bid is for 3 walls, not all of them.

Consideration of Annexation Agreement for certain land located on the East side of Country Club Road and South of Illinois Route 13:

Motion: To Annexation Agreement for certain land located on the East side of Country Club Road and South of Illinois Route 13.

Motion by Alderman Campos Second by Alderman Bratton

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

Motion Carried

Consideration of Annexing Certain Territory to the City of Murphysboro located on the East side of Country Club Road and South of Illinois Route 13:

Motion: To Annexation Agreement for certain land located on the East side of Country Club Road and South of Illinois Route 13.

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

Motion Carried

Consideration of zoning certain territory annexed to the City of Murphysboro located on the East side of Country Club Road and South of Illinois Route 13:

Motion: To Annexation Agreement for certain land located on the East side of Country Club Road and South of Illinois Route 13 as “B-2” Highway Business District.

Motion by Alderman Hughes Second by Alderman Bastien

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

Motion Carried

Update on Mobile Ranch Mobile Home Park: Leandra stated that Eric and Blain had gone to the Mobile Home Park and are compiling a list.

Motion: To go into executive session at 7:55 pm to discuss matters related to 5ILCS 120/2(c)(5) regarding real estate purchase.

Motion by Alderman McComb Second by Alderman Bratton

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

Absent: Alderman Brown, Alderman Voss

Motion Carried

Motion: To come out of executive session at 8:17 p.m.

Motion by Alderman McComb Second by Alderman Bratton

Yeas: Alderman Hughes, Alderman Curry-Witzman, Alderman McComb, Alderman

Erbes, Alderman Bratton, Alderman Bastien, Alderman Campos, Alderman

Pittman Nays: None

Absent: Alderman Brown, Alderman Voss

Motion Carried

ALDERMEN ANNOUNCEMENTS/REQUESTS

Barb Hughes Nothing.

Jance Curry-Witzman Nothing

Russell Brown Absent

Herb Voss Absent

Gary McComb Relay For Life golf scramble Saturday.

John Erbes Nothing

Dan Bratton Nothing

Mike Bastien Tax bills were mailed Monday, due 10/26 and 11/26. The next gun auction at Cannings is 10/13.

Gloria Campos 1. Solar Alliance? Jason Bach will be back next week. No property manager hired yet. Have had Clearwave there. Have contracted for mowing. 2. Car lot on Walnut Street – licensed? Owned by Chris Mueller, consignment lot, not sure what the city ordinance is. Alderman McComb stated the city does not license used cars. Mayor Stephens asked at what point do you become a car dealer even if not selling the cars. Leandra will check into it.

3. Hotel? Dirt has sloughed off. Problem will be addressed McDonald’s is moving there. IDOT is swapping some lots. Mayor Stephens has spoke to Joe regarding start of construction. 4. 20th Street striping? Scheduled but held off due to rain.

W. J. Pittman Nothing

Mayor Stephens Asked Mr. Mills when the roadway painting would be done and asked to make sure that the intersection at North Williams Street was included.

DEPARTMENT HEAD ANNOUNCEMENTS/REQUESTS

Richard Blake Nothing

Sandra Ripley Retirement party for Chief Swafford October 19th at the Elks at 6:00 pm.

Harold Sheffer Nothing

Steve Swafford Thanked the council and city for his 25+ year career. The entire

council thanked the Chief for his years of dedicated service.

Mike Laughland Nothing

Scott Evans Wished Chief Swafford the best in his retirement.

Leandra Bryant Nothing

Tim Lee Have had a couple of sewer collapses.

Darrin Mills Nothing

Jim Stewart Nothing

Motion: To adjourn

Motion by Alderman Bratton Second by Alderman Pittman

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

Motion Carried

Meeting adjourned at 8:31 p.m.

Public Hearing – consideration of Annexation for certain land located

on the East side of Country Club Road and south of Illinois Route 13

Public hearing was called to order at 5:35 p.m. by Mayor Stephens.

Present: Barb Hughes, Jance Curry-Witzman, Gary McComb, Gloria Campos, Will Stephens, Gina Hunziker, Richard Blake, Cliff Mills

Absent: Russell Brown, Herb Voss John Erbes, Dan Bratton, Mike Bastien, WJ Pittman

Attorney Blake stated this hearing is to consider a voluntary annexation agreement proposal. It was published in the Southern Illinoisan to give notice. Zoned as B2 Business District. The Planning Commission met and recommended to annex to the city and zone as B2. Tax abatement for 5 years and half that amount for 5 years after that – city and library only. Can connect to the city sewer at their cost. Will consider the ordinance in the regular council meeting.

Cliff Mills asked if this would include anyone building or just him? Attorney Blake stated it would run with the land.

Alderman Hughes asked if it includes any of the residences behind Mr. Mills’ property? No it does not.

Attorney Blake stated that once it is annexed, will include Route 13 that abuts this property.

Hearing closed at 5:45 p.m.

http://www.murphysboro-il.gov/files/Council_Minutes_-_2018-09-25.pdf