Carbondale Reporter

City of Murphysboro City Council Met April 13.

Here is the minutes provided by the council:

The Murphysboro, Illinois, City Council met in regular session, pursuant to its ordinances. Mayor Stephens called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. and invited Pastor Wes Henson to lead 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, Russell Brown, William Pierson, John Erbes, Dan Bratton, Mike Bastien, Gloria Campos, W.J. Pittman

Absent: Gary McComb

The council then reviewed the minutes from the previous meeting.

Motion: To approve the minutes of the March 23, 2021, council meeting. All aldermen received a copy of the minutes, for their review, prior to the meeting.

Motion by Alderman Bastien

Second by Alderman Bratton

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

Motion Carried

Alderman Bratton inquired as to:

#144 page 10 Landfill – sludge removal? WWTP

page 13 Sandner Electric? WWTP pumps

page 14 Scott Escue? Sewer collapse replacement

page 14 Home Depot? Gloves – janitor & WWTP

What happened on Shomaker? Manhole sunk, has been repaired.

Alderman Hughes inquired as to:

#144 page 2 Brown Electric – Car accident? So we could be reimbursed by

Insurance company?

Motion: To approve the accounts payable register #144, through April 13, 2021, accounts receivable through March 31, 2021, and payroll through March, 2021. All aldermen received a copy of the accounts payable, prior to the meeting.

Motion by Alderman Bratton

Second by Alderman Erbes

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

Motion Carried

COMMITTEE/COMMISSION REPORTS

Alderman Pittman opened discussion for Budget & Finance related items.

Old Business:

Discussion regarding Regulations and Zoning of Adult Use Cannabis Establishments: Alderman Pittman stated need to submit to Zoning Board for public hearing and need to decide what tax to impose. Mayor Stephens stated should be 3%. Attorney Blake stated he will coordinate scheduling with Eric Kennedy. Have to publish so will be on the May meeting. Current restrictions expire May 12 so will need to extend. Alderman Pittman stated put on the agenda to extend at the next meeting.

Motion: To Submit the Proposed Regulations to the Zoning Board for a Public Hearing.

Motion by Alderman Hughes             Second by Alderman Erbes

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

Motion Carried

New Business:

Presentation of Financial Reports by Scott Evans, Budget Officer: Mr. Evans was not in attendance. Mayor Stephens stated the sale tax receipt is a good number.

Consideration of TIF Application – 1416 Walnut Street – Grace Notes Music Studio: Alderman Pittman referenced the memo from Moran Economic Development. Mayor Stephens invited Ms. Hanson to speak. Stephanie Hanson stated she teaches music at Carruthers, has taught for fourteen years. Also teaches tap dance. Her vision is to have piano and voice music lessons, classes for younger kids with the parents. The building needs a lot of work. Can work together to make it happen. There are two apartments upstairs that will help support the business. Sees it as an enrichment for the kids. Mayor Stephens stated sounds like a wonderful vision. Alderman Erbes stated really excited to hear this.

Motion: To Approve the TIF Application for Grace Notes Music Studio at 1416 Walnut Street.

Motion by Alderman Campos            Second by Alderman Erbes

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

Motion Carried

Request from Plum Street Home Association for Liquor License Renewal: Mr. Crabtree stated the Plum Street Home Association during COVID did drive though meals. Paid their liquor license last year but sold no drinks, had asked about relief, was told if do it for one will have to do for all. Maintaining drive through service. Asked the city to extend their license through the end of 2021 for no charge for the three not-for-profits: American Legion, Elks and Plum Street Home Association. Mayor Stephens stated he didn’t want to adopt for one then all would want to know where their relief is at. Would lean towards not extending that relief. Alderman Pittman asked do they have to renew now? Ms. Ripley stated they renew May 1 of each year. Alderman Pittman asked if someone applied halfway through the year, is it pro-rated? Yes. Stated allow them to apply when they open back up. Mayor Stephens stated there is a state issue if you let it expire. Alderman Campos asked if talking about three not-for-profits? Yes. Stated she understands, they are struggling. City could extend for six months then pro-rate it. Alderman Bratton stated they went a year without being able to use something, cut fee in half for one time. Alderman Hughes stated she is in favor of reducing the fee. Asked do we vote on this or do you as the Liquor Commissioner decide? Mayor Stephens stated he can but will be criticized no matter what he does. Alderman Erbes stated cut it in half. Alderman Bastien stated he is in favor of extending it for the three not-for-profits.

Motion: To Approve extending the Liquor Permit for the three not-for-profits, American Legion, Elks and Plum Street Home Association, for 2021 at no charge.

Motion by Alderman Bastien              Second by Alderman Campos

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

Motion Carried

No public comment.

Mayor Stephens opened discussion for Building & Grounds related items.

Old Business: Nothing at this time.

New Business:

Cemetery Maintenance Contract: Mayor Stephens stated Mr. Mason has declined the Cemetery Maintenance contract but will mow until a replacement is hired. Mr. McBride has also expressed that he cannot do it. Mayor Stephens called all members of the council regarding Carl Clover and his interest. Reviewed the bid spec and Mr. Clover stated he would do it for $42,000 annually. Alderman Hughes asked if $42,000 is firm? Would he do it for $40,000? Mayor Stephens stated the two bidders were under $40,000 but can’t do it. Alderman Campos stated have to consider increase in minimum wage and gas. Mayor Stephens stated he had also spoken to Alderman McComb and he is in favor of awarding it to Carl Clover.

Motion: To Award the Cemetery Maintenance Contract to Carl Clover for $42,000 annually.

Motion by Alderman Bratton              Second by Alderman Pittman

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

Motion Carried

No public comment.

Alderman Erbes opened discussion for Community Relations Committee related items.

Old Business: Nothing at this time.

New Business:

Request from Brews Brothers Tap Room for Street Closures: Alderman Erbes stated some are the same nights as Cruise Nights. Alderman Pittman stated they work together.

Motion: To Approve the Street Closure Request from Brews Brothers Tap Room for the dates of May 7 & 21, June 4 & 18, July 2 & 16, August 6 & 20 and September 3.

Motion by Alderman Hughes             Second by Alderman Campos

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

Motion Carried

Alderman Curry-Witzman stated Carruthers School is having Field Days May 11, 12 and 13 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at Riverside Park for the students. Asked if the city could supply a police presence and barricade the entrance so the kids can roam, it will be like a carnival. Mayor Stephens stated should be able to provide an auxiliary presence but will have to speak to the Park District about closing the street. Alderman Curry-Witzman stated someone has spoken to Joe.

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:

Consideration of IDOT Agreement for Parking Lanes on North 11th Street: Mayor Stephens stated resurfacing this area. Alderman Bratton stated will only be out $3680.

Motion: To Approve the IDOT Agreement for Parking Lanes on North 11th Street at an approximate cost to the city of $3680.00.

Motion by Alderman Pittman              Second by Alderman Hughes

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

Motion Carried

Consideration of Motor Fuel Resolution for North 11th Street: Mayor Stephens stated this goes with the IDOT Agreement for Parking Lanes on North 11th Street.

Motion: To Approve the Motor Fuel Resolution for North 11th Street.

Motion by Alderman Campos             Second by Alderman Erbes

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

Motion Carried

Discussion Regarding the Kroger Parking Lot – Pothole Issues: Mayor Stephens stated has gotten lot of messages regarding the potholes as you enter Jackson Square. It is either IDOT or Kroger’s responsibility. City has filled it a couple of times out of concern for the citizens. Spoke to Kroger management and they don’t pay any attention. City should send a letter to IDOT and Kroger, telling them this is their responsibility and this is how much the city has spent. Alderman Bratton stated do they own their property? Yes. Can we put up a barricade? Mayor Stephens stated the county map shows it is theirs. Afraid a barricade would just get run over. Alderman Bratton stated have Attorney Blake send a letter.

Update from Recent IEPA Water System Evaluation: Alderman Bratton stated we did well, they have a few suggestions. Alderman Hughes commended Tim Lee for the good work he does, thanked him and the whole department. Alderman Campos stated there was a sinkhole on 16th street, it was repaired promptly, have an awesome Street Department. Alderman Pittman stated he does not think should spend city funds filling in their potholes, has no problem with having done it but the public should go to Kroger. Mayor Stephens stated he agrees with Alderman Pittman’s statement.

Alderman Erbes asked about the oil and chip program for alleys and streets? Alderman Bratton stated need Stewart Lane oil and chipped, see if County will grade it. Alderman Erbes stated should look at Shomaker Drive, received money for that. Mayor Stephens stated will put that on the agenda.

No public comment.

Alderman Brown opened discussion for Public Safety related items.

Old business:

Discussion regarding Allowing Chickens: Mayor Stephens stated he believes it is doable, limit the number of licenses. Alderman Pittman stated he has read Carbondale’s ordinance, pretty reasonable. Limit permits to maybe ten for a pilot program, would be for it. Alderman Campos stated no roosters. Alderman Hughes had information regarding diseases from the Illinois Department of Public Health that were handed out to the council. Have big health concerns about this. Think about driving through town and seeing the residences people already don’t take care of. Possibly wind up with another employee to oversee this. Need to address animal and human health adequately. Cleanliness, vaccinations, ventilation, have explicit requirements. Setting a precedent. Alderman Campos stated there is a movement of people wanting to have fresh food. If they are going to follow the rules and requirements, will take care of them, all for it. Alderman Bratton asked is the animal control person going to check these? Chief Ellermeyer stated be prepared for complaints, etc. The Animal Control Officer said he would be okay with it. Limiting permits will help and having a pilot program. Has read Carbondale’s, pretty good ordinance. Alderman Campos stated if there are problems, can revoke their permit. Alderman Curry-Witzman stated she is not in favor of chickens. Websites support Alderman Hughes’s information. There are educational programs and alternatives. Alderman Erbes stated the cost and burden is on Animal Control. Attracts predators such as foxes and bobcats, have serious concerns. Floor was then opened for public comment: Lilly Dunkel – stated she brought this to the council again after talking to community members. Interested in providing food for herself. We already have chickens in the community. Shouldn’t punish those who will take proper care of. She is for chickens, with proper care, coops, fenced, private land. Allowing chickens is progressive and forward thinking. Could share with your neighbors, is community mindedness. Chickens eat bugs and kitchen scraps, manure is great for compost and gardens. Carbondale has not had any issues. Just bought a home her in Murphysboro.

Betsy Bost – Encourage a well thought out ordinance. Would love to see young people moving into our community. Have seven acres in town and want to grow things. Appreciates the concern, have to be careful. If you do a good job writing the ordinance, wisely, model after other communities, can do it well. Give people the opportunity. Also be respectful of our neighbors. Can be done well and safely and is a great opportunity for Murphysboro to sell themselves to the next generation. Jessica Ninness – Fully support this, to have fresh eggs and pride in providing our own food. Alderman Erbes asked what do with those that have chickens without a license? Chief Ellermeyer stated it has not been brought to his attention, have to look into. Will need to write that into the ordinance. Five to ten permits would be doable. Mayor Stephens stated limit to four chickens, ten permits. Alderman Pittman stated Carbondale ordinance is pretty strict on requirements, very reasonably written. Mayor Stephens asked Attorney Blake if he had reviewed the Carbondale ordinance and did it raise any concerns? Attorney Blake stated he had reviewed it, familiar with it. Big one is enforcement. Very specific requirements. Would need a court order to remove a coop. Can revoke permit and fine them. Will need to put something in writing and put it on the agenda. Mayor Stephens stated can provide a copy of Carbondale’s and put it on the agenda. Alderman Pittman stated not wanting to keep putting it off, have something to vote on. Mayor Stephens stated direct city attorney to draw up ordinance, four chickens, permit fee per year. Alderman Campos stated four chickens, ten permits, annual fee and vote on it next meeting. Attorney Blake asked follow Carbondale’s? Will need guidelines. Alderman Bratton asked if can do a consensus vote before the city attorney spends time on this? Need to get specific information to him first. Alderman Pittman stated change number of licenses and chickens but copy the rest of the requirements. Mirror Carbondale except for ten permits and four chickens.

Motion: To direct the city attorney to write an Ordinance that mirrors Carbondale’s Chicken Ordinance with the exception of maximum of ten permits and four chickens.

Motion by Alderman Pittman             Second by Alderman Campos

Mayor Stephens called for a roll call vote.

Yeas: Alderman Pierson, Alderman Campos, Alderman Pittman

Nays: Alderman Hughes, Alderman Curry-Witzman, Alderman Brown, Alderman Erbes, Alderman Bratton, Alderman Bastien

Absent: Alderman McComb

Motion Failed

New business: Nothing at this time.

Public comment:

Alderman Hughes opened discussion for Personnel related items.

Old business: Nothing at this time.

New business: Nothing at this time.

No public comment.

MAYOR’S REPORT

Consideration and Approval of Appointment of Aaron Barnett to the Historic Preservation Commission: Mr. Barnett stated he has lived here for 22 years, was asked to be a part of the Historic Preservation Commission and is interested in it. Has been to some of the meetings, pretty interesting.

Motion: To Approve the Appointment of Aaron Barnett to the Historic Preservation Commission.

Motion by Alderman Pittman             Second by Alderman Bratton

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

Motion Carried

Consideration and Approval of Appointment of Sharon Fry to the Sallie Logan Public Library Board: Ms. Fry stated she has been a resident the last seven years, teaches at the Murphysboro Middle School, is an avid reader and loves the library. She participates in all their events. Wants to effect change and make it a special place.

Motion: To Approve the Appointment of Sharon Fry to the Sallie Logan Public Library Board.

Motion by Alderman Bastien              Second by Alderman Bratton

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

Motion Carried

ALDERMEN ANNOUNCEMENTS/REQUESTS

Barb Hughes Nothing

Jance Curry-Witzman Nothing

Russell Brown Nothing

William Pierson Nothing

Gary McComb Absent

John Erbes Nothing

Dan Bratton Thanks to my family, council and Ward 2 for electing him to represent them for 16 years. Have voted for what he thought was best.

Mike Bastien Nothing

Gloria Campos Congratulations on your twin boys! IML Magazine, Criminal Justice Reform page 16 & 17, pros and cons, going to be a challenge.

W. J. Pittman Nothing

DEPARTMENT HEAD ANNOUNCEMENTS/REQUESTS

Richard Blake Nothing

Leslie Mulholland Nothing

Scott Evans Absent

Harold Sheffer Nothing

Steve McBride Absent

Jamie Ellermeyer Nothing

Eric Kennedy Absent

Tim Lee Nothing

Brian Manwaring Nothing

Darrin Mills Nothing

Pat Gladson Nothing

Katharine Volle: Nothing

Leandra Bryant Nothing

Motion: To adjourn.

Motion by Alderman Brown

Second by Alderman Campos

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

Motion Carried

Meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

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