City Council Meeting Minutes

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 4, 2015
5:30 PM

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Communication from visitors

5. Approval of minutes (pages 1-3)

6. Items for Consideration

A. Oath of Office for Third Ward Alderman Len Janis

B. Fulton Chamber of Commerce Update

• Summary: On August 4th, 2014 City Council approved a City/Chamber of Commerce partnership and asked the CoC to provide updates in February and July to ensure that the Council is kept abreast of Chamber's efforts to achieve their strategic goals and their eventual ability to take over funding for the Chamber's entire budget.

C. Reciprocal Agreement on Exchange of Information between the City of Fulton and the Illinois Department of Revenue (pages 4-8)

• Summary: Public Act 098-1058 allows municipalities to enter into a reciprocal agreement with the Illinois Dept. of Revenue to receive sales tax information on businesses within the municipality. The information is confidential, and only individuals identified in the agreement may have access to the information. Fulton will limit access to the City Administrator, City Treasurer, and City Collector.
• Action: Approve reciprocal agreement

D. Request to allow possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages on city streets during special events (pages 9-10)

• Summary: The Blessing of the Bikes is scheduled for Sunday, June 7th. Organizers are asking the city allow possession and consumption of beer within defined areas of Fulton streets during the event. Allowing possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages on city streets will require amending our municipal code. A DRAFT ordinance is included for consideration.
• Action: Motion to amend Fulton municipal code to allow consumption of alcoholic beverages during special events.

E. Street closure request for Junior Baseball Parade (pages 11-12)

• Summary: The Junior Baseball League would like to request street closures on May 17th, 2015 at 1:00 pm to host a parade for all baseball players. The parade will last approximately 20 – 30 minutes. There will 18 volunteers assisting with the barricaded streets.

F. City Clerk Appointment

• Summary: Mayor Russell is appointing Jackie Wilkin to continue as Fulton City Clerk
• Action: Confirm appointment

7. Old Business

A. Hobby Machine Expansion

• Summary: Mr. Robert Miller is requesting the city sell him 5 acres at the southeast corner of the Fulton Industrial Center for the Hobby Machine expansion. Mr. Miller’s business expansion includes a machine shop, retail store, possible bar and grill, hydro-graphics, motorcycle repair, used motorcycle sales, and chroming plating. The city must determine if Mr. Miller’s business is suited for the Fulton Industrial Center.
• Action: Approve/deny Fulton Industrial Center as possible location for Hobby Machine expansion.

8. Reports

• Mayor
• Administrator (page 13)
• Tourism and Community Services

9. Closed Session to discuss Collective Bargaining

10. Adjourn

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
MAY 4, 2015

Mayor Russell called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barb Mask, Gene Field, Margaret Crosthwaite, Dan Nederhoff, Sue Van Kampen, Wes Letcher, Mike Van Zuiden, and Howard Van Zuiden answered “present.” Also in attendance was Ed Cannon- City Administrator, Bill Shirk – City Attorney, Melissa Wiebenga- Tourism/Community Services Director, James Rhoades – Chief of Police, and Dan Clark – Public Works Director.

The pledge of allegiance was recited. Pastor Roy Ann Mathews gave the invocation.

There was no communication from visitors.

Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions or comments on the last regular meeting minutes. Ald. Mask clarified that 10% of the gross revenues were to be given back to the city when events are hosted at Heritage Cannon using the new permanent stage. With no further discussion Ald. Crosthwaite motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the April 20, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried.

First, Mayor Russell swore in new 3rd Ward Alderman, Len Janis. Mayor Russell welcomed Ald. Janis to the Council and thanked Wes Letcher for his service.

Second, April Eshelman, Executive Director of Fulton’s Chamber of Commerce, provided a handout to the Council detailing the Chamber’s budget and gave a brief overview. Administrator Cannon asked how Chamber Memberships are doing. Ms. Eshelman said they lost around 15 members but has regained a few. Ald. Mask asked if the Chamber was on track to pay the $13,500 that the city is currently contributing to the Chamber’s budget and Ms. Eshelman said they are on track to take over that amount after next year.

Third, Mayor Russell asked Administrator Cannon to explain the Reciprocal Agreement on exchange of information between the City of Fulton and the Illinois Department of Revenue. Administrator Cannon summarized that Public Act 098-1058 allows municipalities to enter into a reciprocal agreement with the Illinois Department of Revenue to receive sales tax information on businesses within the municipality. The information is confidential, and only individuals identified in the agreement may have access to the information. Fulton will limit access to the City Administrator, City Treasurer, and City Collector. This is a tool that will help the city make better decisions while they work on economic development. Ald. Mask said she would like more information on the agreement. After brief discussion Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Howard Van Zuiden to approval Reciprocal Agreement. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried.

Fourth, The Blessing of the Bikes is scheduled for Sunday, June 7th. Organizers are asking the city to allow possession and consumption of beer within defined areas of Fulton streets during the event. Allowing possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages on city streets will require amending our municipal code. Larry Leonard, owner of Large One’s Pub, Dave and Paula Ensinger, owners of Johnny’s and Denny Ottens, owner of Denny-O’s were all present, along with Julie Meiners, our local ABATE representative, to explain details of the event. Mrs. Meiners explained that all those who plan to drink in the designated area will be required to purchase a koozie to which those proceeds will go to local food pantries. Also, she said the designated area will be patrolled by around 40 ABATE members. All three bar owners expressed their desire to work together to patrol this event and make it a success. Police Chief Rhoades said he’d like to see wristbands handed out so they can differentiate under aged drinkers. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen to amend Fulton municipal code to allow consumption of alcoholic beverages during special events. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried.

Fifth, the Junior Baseball League would like to request street closure on May 17th, 2015 at 1:00 PM to host a parade for all baseball and softball players. The parade will last approximately 20-30 minutes. They have 18 volunteers assisting with the barricaded streets. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Howard Van Zuiden to approve the street closure. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried.

Sixth, Mayor Russell appointed Jackie Wilkin to continue as City Clerk. Ald. Mike Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Nederhoff to confirm appointment of City Clerk. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:
Mr. Robert Miller is requesting the city sell him 5 acres at the southeast corner of the Fulton Industrial Center for Hobby Machine to expand. Mr. Miller’s business expansion includes a machine shop, retail store, possible bar and grill, hydro-graphics, motorcycle repair, used motorcycle sales, and chroming plating. The City must determine if Mr. Miller’s business is suited for the Fulton Industrial Center. Ald. Mask asked him to explore other options. The Council discussed four other possible sites for Mr. Miller. Mayor Russell said they have time to explore other options and the motion was tabled.

MAYOR’S REPORT:
Mayor Russell said he is working on committees for this year. He said only 4-5 need to keep formal minutes and the rest will be less formal, Ad Hoc committees.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT:
Administrator Cannon included a written report. Administrator Cannon added that on May 5, 2015 at 6:00pm there will be a community meeting about the tele-pharmacy. Administrator Cannon also informed the Council that Melissa Wiebenga, Tourism/Community Services Director, is resigning. Mrs. Wiebenga’s husband accepted a new job in Des Moines so their family is relocating to Des Moines. Administrator Cannon expressed how much she will be missed and how great of a job she did in her short time here.

ALDERMAN REPORTS:
Melissa Wiebenga, Tourism/Community Services Director, reported that her first Dutch Days was a success! She will be meeting with Ald. Bard Mask to post-evaluate the event.

Chief Rhoades reported that this was the 41st Dutch Days event and it was the largest crowd he’s seen on a Friday. He was happy to report everything went smoothly.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Howard Van Zuiden to go into closed session to discuss collective bargaining matters. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried. The Council entered closed session at 6:27 PM.

Ald. Crosthwaite motioned, seconded by Ald. Field to exit closed session. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried. The Council exited closed session at 6:45 PM.

With no further business, Ald. Field moved, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen to adjourn. With voice agreement, the meeting adjourned at 6:45 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Jackie Wilkin
Fulton City Clerk

During the April 20, 2015 City Council meeting an open public hearing was held to discuss the FY 2016 budget.  The budget was approved.  You can view the FY 2016 City of Fulton budget here.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The City of Fulton will hold a Public Hearing at 5:30 PM on April 20, 2015 in the City Hall Council Chambers for the purpose of taking public comment on the 2015/2016 budget. A copy of the tentative budget is in the lobby of City Hall for public review during the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM Monday through Friday. Copy is also available here.

Dated this 7th day of April, 2015

Jackie Wilkin
City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON
Regular City Council Meeting
April 20, 2015
5:30 PM

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Communication from visitors

5. Recognize Brittany Johnson

6. Approve April 6, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes (pages 1-4)

7. Approve Bill List

8. Approve Treasurer’s Report (pages 5-12)

9. Public Hearing

A. Public Hearing for Consideration of Proposed Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Budget

• Summary: As noticed in the Fulton Journal and on the City of Fulton Website on April 7, 2015, this is a public hearing for the tentative annual budget for fiscal year May 1, 2015 through April 31, 2016. A copy of the tentative budget has been available for public review at City Hall and on the City website. All interested persons are invited to attend this public hearing and be heard.
• Action: Motion to open the public hearing for the proposed fiscal year 2015 annual budget.

B. Close Public Hearing

10. Items for Consideration

A. Ordinance #1523 Adopting the Annual Budget of the City Pursuant to Section 8-2-9.4 of the Illinois Municipal Code (pages 13-43)

• Summary: All notifications and public hearing have been accomplished in accordance with Illinois Municipal Code. Approved budget must be submitted to the Whiteside County Clerk by April 30, 2015.
• Action: Approve budget ordinance

B. Hobby Machine Development Presentation (pages 44-49)

• Summary: Mr. Robert Miller is requesting the City of Fulton sell 5 acres in the southeast corner of the Fulton Industrial Center for Hobby Machine business expansion.
• Action: Discussion only

C. Request to use reserve funds to replace Well 3 booster pump and motor and the WWTP clarifier (page 50)

• Summary: PW Director Clark is requesting $17,452.00 from W/S Depreciation reserves (Fund 55) to replace the booster pump and motor at well three; and to replace the clarifier at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. The booster pump carries water to the water tower, and the clarifier is the first biological process at the WWTP.
• Action: Approve using Fund 55 reserves for repairs to Well 3 booster pump and motor, and clarifier at WWTP.

11. Old Business

A. Permanent Stage at Heritage Canyon

• Summary: Bob Whitten is requesting the City Council approve a permanent stage at Heritage Canyon. The stage will be located to the west of the chapel and will be erected using donated lumber. The stage will be used as a band shell in the canyon and 10% of event revenues will be returned to the city.
• Action: Approve Permanent stage

12. Reports

• Mayor - (pages 51-53)
• Administrator - (page 54)
• Public Works Director
• Police Chief – (page 55)
• Aldermen Reports
• Martin House Report - (page 56)

13. Closed Session to Discuss Collective Bargaining Matters

14. Return to Open Session

15. Adjourn

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
APRIL 20, 2015

Mayor Russell called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barb Mask, Margaret Crosthwaite, Dan Nederhoff, Wes Letcher, Mike Van Zuiden, and Howard Van Zuiden answered “present.” Ald. Gene Field and Sue Van Kampen were absent. Also in attendance was Ed Cannon- City Administrator, Bill Shirk – City Attorney, Melissa Wiebenga- Tourism/Community Services Director, James Rhoades – Chief of Police, Dan Clark – Public Works Director, Tammy Garibay – Utility Clerk, Brittany Johnson – Utility Clerk, Amanda Fosdick – City Treasurer.

The pledge of allegiance was recited. Pastor Wayne gave the invocation.

Mayor Russell asked if there was any communication from the visitors. Barb Suehl-Janis asked the Council if they received a letter from Bill Stoermer in regards to the possibility of three nuclear plants closing which could impact our local area by losing 800 jobs. Mayor Russell said he received the letter as well and is aware of the issue. Mrs. Suehl-Janis also said there is a meeting April 23rd in Rock Island for more information. If anyone plans to attend they need to RSVP.

Mayor Russell asked Administrator Cannon to introduce the new Utility Clerk, Brittany Johnson. Mrs. Johnson said she has worked the past six years at Central Bank. The Council welcomed her to the staff.

Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions or comments on the last regular meeting minutes. With no further discussion Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the April 6, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

Next, Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions or comments on the Bill List. With no further comments Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the Bill List. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

Next, the Council reviewed the Treasurer’s Report. Mayor Russell asked Amanda Fosdick, City Treasurer, if she had any comments to add about the report. Ms. Fosdick pointed out we’re almost at the end of the fiscal year. With no other comments from the Council, Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Mike Van Zuiden to approve the Treasurer’s Report. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to enter a Public Hearing. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried. The Public Hearing began at 5:40 PM for consideration of the proposed Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Budget. Mayor Russell asked Administrator Cannon to summarize. Administrator Cannon explained that the Council met four Saturdays in March for Budget Planning Workshops and briefly summarized the tentative budget highlighting a few areas specifically. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to close the Public Hearing. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried. The Public Hearing closed at 5:50 PM.

The first item for consideration was Ordinance #1523: Adopting the Annual Budget of the City Pursuant to Section 8-2-9.4 of the Illinois Municipal Code. Now that all notifications and public hearing requirements have been met, the approved budget must be submitted to the Whiteside County Clerk by April 30, 2015. Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Crosthwaite to approve the budget ordinance. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

Second, Mr. Robert Miller is requesting the City of Fulton sell five acres in the southeast corner of the Fulton Industrial Center for Hobby Machine business expansion. Mayor Russell summarized an overview of when Mr. Miller addressed the Council at the April 6, 2015 meeting. Mayor Russell stated that an obstacle to Mr. Miller’s request is he wants 5 acres of commercial/residential land along Highway 84 for his business and the Industrial Center is zoned industrial. Also, Mr. Miller’s business plan is lacking any financial forecasts. Mr. Miller said the bank didn’t require that he put numbers in his financial plan so that is why they aren’t there. He asked the Council what he needed to do for them to sell him that land. After a few questions from the Council, Ald. Mask told Mr. Miller to add financials to his business plan and recommended using the Small Business Administration to aid him in that process.

Third, Mayor Russell asked Dan Clark, Public Works Director to explain the repairs needed in his department. PW Director Clark is requesting $17,452 from W/S Depreciation reserves (Fund 55) to replace the booster pump and motor at well three; and to replace the clarifier at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. The booster pump carries water to the water tower, and the clarifier is the first biological process at the WWTP. He said this is necessary infrastructure that needs fixed. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Nederhoff to approve using Fund 55 reserves for repairs to Well 3 booster pump and motor, and clarifier at WWTP. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:
Bob Whitten is requesting the City Council approve a permanent stage at Heritage Canyon. The stage will be located to the west of the chapel and will be erected using donated lumber. The stage will be used as a band shell in the canyon and 10% of event revenues will be returned to the city. Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the permanent stage and that revenues collected from events will be earmarked for maintenance expenses at Heritage Canyon. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

MAYOR’S REPORT:
Mayor Russell included a written report.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT:
Administrator Cannon included a written report. Administrator Cannon added there is a possible restaurant coming to downtown Fulton and he has been approached about having a tele-pharmacy in Fulton. May 5, 2015 at 6:00pm there will be a community meeting about the tele-pharmacy.

ALDERMAN REPORTS:
PW Director Clark reported that all boats have been launched except one. He also said the parks are clean and his staff is busy and looking forward to summer. Mayor Russell commented on how nice the Kiwanis baseball fields look. PW Director Clark also told the Council they cannot get the material needed to patch holes in the streets for a few more weeks.

Chief Rhoades reported that they set up the new siren and tested it and it does work. He has a meeting set up with IDOT because the North Bridge will be repainted this summer. He and his staff are preparing for street closures at Dutch Days.

Ald. Mask was happy to report 78 people recently attended a program hosted at the Martin House. The Martin House submitted their quarterly report and is in communication with an engineer to look at the collapsing wall to see if it’s a structural problem or just the brick.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Howard Van Zuiden to go into closed session to discuss collective bargaining matters. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried. The Council entered closed session at 6:36 PM.

Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Nederhoff to exit closed session. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 3 absent/ motion carried. The Council exited closed session at 7:31 PM.

With no further business, Ald. Letcher moved, seconded by Ald. Howard Van Zuiden to adjourn. With voice agreement, the meeting adjourned at 7:31 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Jackie Wilkin
Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
APRIL 6, 2015

Mayor Russell called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barb Mask, Gene Field, Margaret Crosthwaite, Dan Nederhoff, Sue Van Kampen, Wes Letcher, Mike Van Zuiden, and Howard Van Zuiden answered “present.” Also in attendance were Ed Cannon- City Administrator, Bill Shirk – City Attorney, Melissa Wiebenga- Tourism/Community Services Director, and Donny Pridemore- Police Lieutenant.

The pledge of allegiance was recited. Pastor Kevin gave the invocation.

Mayor Russell asked if there was any communication from the visitors. Casey Simpson, Fulton Patrol Officer, said he attended a couple of the Budget Planning Workshops in March and wanted to remind the Council that it had been mentioned to increase the utility tax from 2% to 4% to help make up the budget deficit. Officer Simpson said the additional $75,000 generated from such a tax increase could help balance the budget instead of cutting in other areas.

Next, Robert Miller, local business owner of Hobby Machine since 2002, addressed the Council by explaining his desire for purchasing land along Highway 84 to expand his business. Mr. Miller explained his communication with various city officials dating back to January 2013 until recently about his search for land options. In January 2014, Mr. Miller spoke to Administrator Cannon about purchasing land on the corner of Hwy 84 and Hwy 30. Mr. Cannon explained without any infrastructure in the Industrial Park it would be hard for him to establish his business there. Then later in August 2014, the City Council agreed to sell land to Nu-Med without infrastructure. Mr. Miller expressed his frustration of being a lifelong resident and not having support to grow his business here. Ald. Van Kampen asked exactly what his business entailed. Mr. Miller explained that he made accessories for Harley Davidson motorcycles and currently 90% of his sales are online. He now wants a store front on Hwy 84 that gets a lot of traffic from his clientele. He also would like to eventually have a Bar & Grill attached and be able to live there. The Council expressed their interest in having further conversations so Mayor Russell asked that this be put on the next agenda.

Next, Andy Meyers, Co-President of the Rec Board, said they are aware of the conversations of potentially using the land where Kiwanis Fields are located for a senior housing development. Mr. Meyers wanted to remind the Council that their program allows over 250 kids to play baseball/softball for free each year. The Kiwanis fields are used for their program because the Drives ball fields are not set up properly for this level of children to play and there is a concession stand there. He also stated that annually about six tournaments are hosted at Kiwanis fields which in turn brings people into town providing additional revenue for the city.

Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions or comments on the last regular meeting minutes or the budget workshop meetings. Administrator Cannon clarified that March 30, 2015 Budget Workshop was a continuation of the March 21, 2015 meeting. With no further discussion Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve March 14, 2015 Budget Workshop, March 16, 2015 Regular Council Meeting, March 21, 2015 Budget Workshop, and March 30, 2015 Budget Workshop Continuation. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried.

First on the agenda, Mayor Russell invited Ald. Van Kampen to explain the Fulton Kiwanis Club’s generous donation of $1,821 for a climbing wall at the new 3rd Ward park. Barb Suehl, Fulton Kiwanis member, presented a check to Ald. Sue Van Kampen of the 3rd Ward. Mrs. Suehl said Kiwanis’ whole purpose is to serve the children of the world and they want to help with building and landscaping the park too. Ald. Van Kampen thanked them for their donation.

Second, Kyle Kopf presented a check for $350 to the City of Fulton from the Fulton Garden Fund. The fund was established in memory of Mr. Kopf’s father who spent much of his time landscaping the City of Fulton. The donation is to be used for beautification of the Drives building property. Ald. Van Kampen thanked Mr. Kopf for their donation.

Third, Mayor Russell invited Bob Whitten to explain his proposed plan for a Gazebo in Heritage Canyon that could also be used as a stage. Mr. Whitten explained the gazebo would be located near the church in the canyon and could be used for overflow from the church and for bands, picnics, etc. He said the expense of the gazebo will be covered by funds from Fulton Forward and donations from Awesometown Productions, True Construction, and The Kiwanis Club. The Canyon caretaker said with about ten weddings a year this would be a great addition to the canyon. Administrator Cannon asked about the dimensions of the gazebo and Mr. Whitten said it would be 16 feet in diameter. Cannon also asked if he could stake out the location and Mr. Whitten said he could do it the next day.

Fourth, Mayor Russell asked Mike Mudge, Rock Island Energy Services. Co., to present bids for early renewal of Fulton’s electrical aggregation contract. Our current contract renews in September, but current energy rates are advantageous for early renewal. Mr. Mudge briefly reviewed what they have done up until today which included a $500,000 savings for the city. After some discussion over the bids and debating over a two or three year contract, the Council decided to accept Constellation’s bid for three years at 6.59, 6.45, and 6.56. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen to accept Constellation’s three year bid. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried.

Fifth, Administrator Cannon presented the tentative budget which represents the final draft of the FY 2016 municipal budget. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the tentative budget for public inspection. Roll call vote/ all yes/ motion carried. The tentative budget will be posted April 7, 2015 for public inspection and a Public Hearing will be Monday, April 20, 2015 at 5:30 PM in the Fulton City Council Chambers.

Ald. Sue Van Kampen had to leave early to return to work.
Sixth, the CRDC requested Fulton endorse the Vision 2020 five-year funding initiative. The Council agreed to support the CRDC for $5000 in FY 2016. Ald. Nederhoff motioned, seconded by Ald. Mike Van Zuiden to approve the Resolution Endorsing the Clinton Regional Development Corporation’s Five-Year Funding Initiative and Supporting its Implementation. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried. Ald. Mike Van Zuiden noted that although their $5000 contribution is less than the $10,000 that was asked, this is more money than the City of Fulton has contributed to the CRDC in the past.

Seventh, Mayor Russell asked the Council if they had any questions on the agreement to exercise option to repurchase Zajicek’s property. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden asked the Council again why they would want to buy that property back with a slab of concrete and a hole in the back. He also asked who’s responsible for removing the concrete. Mayor Russell said it’s not written in the agreement that Mr. Zajicek will remove the concrete but he will take the lumber. Mayor Russell said unfortunately this will be an expensive process for both parties involved. Fulton will pay Mr. Zajicek $32,365 and he will convey his 2.191 acre property back to Fulton. Mr. Zajicek must pay title insurance, revenue stamps (if required), assessed and unpaid real estate taxes, and shall release all liens or encumbrances and pay for the recording or these releases. Mr. Zajicek will have 30 days to remove any and all improvements and any debris left on the real estate before delivery of the deed and payment of the purchase price. Ald. Mike Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the Agreement to Exercise Option to Repurchase. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 1 no, 1 absent/ motion carried.

Eighth, Jo-Carroll Energy wants to upgrade their broadband equipment located on the Fulton water tower and renew their tower lease agreement with the City of Fulton. The new agreement will run three years at $275 per month. Additionally, Jo-Carroll will continue to provide free internet service to City Hall, the RFCC, Windmill Cultural Center, plus expand free internet service to the Public Works building, Well 5, and the Wastewater Treatment facility. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the Water Tower Agreement. Ald. Mask asked if the service they provide will be better than what they’ve previously provided and also if that included service at the Martin House. Administrator Cannon said they expect better service and he will ask them to add internet service to the Martin House. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden made a friendly amendment to his motion to add the Martin House to Jo-Carroll’s list of locations they will provide internet service. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

MAYOR’S REPORT:
Mayor Russell included a written report.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT:
Administrator Cannon included a written report

ALDERMAN REPORTS:
Administrator Cannon reported on behalf of the marina that their new tenant is moving in. He said Mr. Stoltenberg has new boats for sale, but he doesn’t have his dealership agreement yet.

Ald. Mask reported that programs are beginning at the Andresen Nature Center.

Melissa Wiebenga, Tourism/Community Services Director, announced that April 11, 2015 there will be a Town Meeting at RFCC. Also, she informed the Council that the Tourism Group raised $633 at their Pizza Ranch fundraiser. Mrs. Wiebenga reported that she met with Erin Wessels, a college student at Trinity Christian College, who has volunteered to intern at the RFCC this summer.

Lieutenant Pridemore reported the Police Department received a $62,000 grant to upgrade communication systems in their squad cars and at the station. They should receive the check sometime in May and get projects started thereafter.

With no further business, Ald. Howard Van Zuiden moved, seconded by Ald. Field to adjourn. With voice agreement, the meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Jackie Wilkin
Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON
BUDGET WORKSHOP
MARCH 30, 2015

Mayor Russell called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barb Mask, Gene Field, Margaret Crosthwaite, Sue Van Kampen, Wes Letcher, Mike Van Zuiden, and Howard Van Zuiden answered “present.” Ald. Dan Nederhoff was absent. Also in attendance were Ed Cannon- City Administrator, Dan Clark-Public Works Director, and Casey Simpson- Patrol Officer.

The pledge of allegiance was recited. No invocation was given.

There was no communication from visitors.

First, Administrator Cannon updated the Council on the FY2016 Budget. There was still an $11,330 deficit that needs to be resolved. This tentative budget will be voted on next Monday (April 6, 2015) during regular City Council Meeting.

Second, Administrator Cannon recommended using Fund 31 reserves for 2012C Bond debt service. After brief discussion Ald. Mike Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to use Fund 31 reserves for 2012C Bond debt service. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

Third, PW Director Clark shared the list he compiled per Mayor Russell which detailed the top four projects he recommended completing using Fund 32. Once other water/sewer projects (already in the works) are deducted from this fund, along with these projects there will be about $225,000 left in Fund 32. Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve 2016 Street Project Recommendations with Fund 32. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

Fourth, City Administrator Cannon discussed 3 options for eliminating the remaining General Fund budget shortfall ($11,330). Option 1 included eliminating $10,000 Peace Corp Fellow expenditure and reducing Vision 2020 contribution to CRDC. Administrator Cannon explained that a college intern has contacted Mrs. Wiebenga and wants to work at the RFCC for no pay and the city will be able to reapply for a Peace Corp Fellow the following year if the budget allows. He also explained the city could lower their CRDC contribution to $5,000 and this would eliminate our vote on the Board. Ald. Mike Van Zuiden asked if the City of Fulton would be affected much by forfeiting that vote. Administrator Cannon didn’t think that would impact them from helping our economic development. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Mask to reduce the Vision 2020 contribution to the CRDC to $5000. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 1 no, 1 absent/ motion carried. Ald. Mask suggested not hiring the Peace Corp Fellow, everyone agreed. With the extra $15,000, the budget is now balanced.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to enter closed session to discuss collective bargaining matters. The Council entered closed session at 6:06 PM.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to exit closed session. The Council exited closed session as 6:38 PM.

With no further business, Ald. Van Kampen motioned, seconded by Ald. Howard Van Zuiden to adjourn. With voice agreement, the meeting adjourned at 6:39 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Jackie Wilkin
Fulton City Clerk

Budget Workshop
March 21, 2015
8:00 AM

1. Call to Order

2. Roll Call

3. Pledge of Allegiance

4. Communication from Visitors

5. Items for Consideration:

A. Employee Health Insurance

• Summary: Employee health insurance renews April 1st. Options will be discussed for selecting health insurance policy and employee shared contributions. Provider must be notified of selection by Monday, March 23rd.
• Action: Approve 2015 Health Insurance policy and employee contribution levels

B. Utility Tax Rate

• Summary: Fulton established a 2.5% Municipal Utility Tax on natural gas and electricity in 2010. Illinois statutes limit utility tax rates to 5%. Fulton’s Utility Tax generates $123,000 and represents 7.8% of Fulton’s General Fund revenues. Raising the Utility rate to 4% will generate approximately $75,000. All Utility Tax revenues support municipal operations.
• Action: Discuss options for changing Fulton Utility Tax ordinance

C. Public Hearing date

6. Adjourn